Most people call facial tissue “Kleenex.” Most carpenters call a circular saw a “Skilsaw.” Why? Because they were the first products of their kind. Coincidentally, both the Kleenex tissue and the first Skilsaw model E …
Written by: Rich
Want to start an epic battle among your woodworking friends? Ask them how they measure clamping pressure when they’re gluing up a project. You’re likely to get a variety of responses, ranging from “don’t clamp …
Written by: Phil
Since I often work alone, I’m always looking for anything that can make my workday easier. And no, that doesn’t make me lazy – that makes me efficient and more productive. (That’s my story and …
Written by: Phil
From the time I was very young, I’ve always enjoyed spending time outdoors. Way back then, it wasn’t always by choice. I had five brothers and sisters, and to preserve what remained of her sanity, …
Written by: Phil
I have seen some wacky shovels in my day. It seems like every few years, someone tries to reinvent one of human’s oldest, simplest and most reliable tools. And not without good reason! Despite it’s …
Written by: Rich
The Die Grinder. So simple, so elegant, so effective! When you are doing metalwork, there is just nothing else that is as versatile when it comes to getting into those difficult, tight areas. A long-time …
Written by: Rich
If you install a lot of trim or flooring, you’re probably resigned to the process of hauling a miter saw along wherever you go. Even if you only have a few cuts to make, they …
Written by: Phil
Gear, Rockler, Tools, Woodworking
Spring clamps. I have a love/hate relationship with them. For years and years, I only bought the old school metal spring clamps for a few specific uses around the shop. Inevitably, the little rubber boots …
Written by: Rich
Leaf blowers. Those screaming-loud, smoke-belching destroyers of weekend morning quiet. Of all tools in the entire world, these things are my least favorite. I just don’t get the attraction. Why do you need a leaf …
Written by: Rich
Back when I was a young whippersnapper, I frequently got enlisted to help my dad repair one or the other of our family cars. He had an old set of Craftsman tools and a lot …
Written by: Phil