What woodworking tools should i buy first
Hand tools are an excellent way to hone your woodworking skills. Once you master them, you’ll find joy and satisfaction either in using them as a hobby, or taking it to the next step of woodworking for monetary needs. First and foremost is to obtain quality tools, learn how to properly store, use and maintain them. In the case of chisels for instance, you must know how to sharpen them using sharpening stones. Giving yourself time to understand these tools is definitely part of of owning hand tools, and some experts have found that they almost exclusively turn to their hand tools when completing projects. They’re cheap, last a long time, and can be very effective if kept in good condition. In addition, many projects that can be done with power tools, can also be done with hand tools, only quicker.
What woodworking tools should i buy first
Here is a basic list to get started:
Safety Glasses
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Dual mold goggle provides protection from dust and debris.
- The hard coated lens provides tough protection against scratches.
- The anti-fog lens coating provides tough protection against fogging.
- The soft, rubber is dual injected which conforms to the face in order to provide a high level of protection from dust and debris.
- Adjustable, elastic cloth head strap.
- Ventilation channels allow breathability.
- Polycarbonate lens meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards and provides 99.9% UVA/UVB protection.
Cons
- The soft rubber gasket doesn’t mold and seal properly to all facial types, leaving gaps.
Pros
- Non Slip: Soft rubber covered tips grip firmly behind the ears, and the curved extendable temple arms can be angled to ensure a snug fit for any head size or face shape.
- Comfortable enough to wear all day: Contoured, lightweight design hugs cheekbone area, and the soft rubber nose piece makes it sit lightly even after hours at a workshop or construction site.
- Protects against UV light: 380nm UV protection lens coating will shield eyes from 90-100% of harmful UVA and UVB radiation rays, and will also protect against UV light emitted by artificial light sources.
- Can be used in extreme conditions, either indoors or outdoors, in a freezer or for blowing glass.
Cons
- Cannot fit over prescription glasses
- Handles reported to scratch the lenses when folded.
Pros
- Delivers outstanding peripheral vision and impact protection in an iconic design.
- Stylish, classic design promotes worker compliance.
- Low base curve frame and clear side shields provide excellent peripheral vision and protection.
- Scratch resistant hard coat polycarbonate lenses in clear and grey offer long-lasting protection.
- Black nylon frame with soft grey temple pads for comfort
Cons
- Lenses become unclear during cleaning process.
Tape Measures
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Revolutionizes not only the tape measure but also expands its utility as never before.
- Large digital display provides easy reading while the advanced features are readily accessible. Features: include 3 memories, US or metric units, center-line calculation, re-zero and Inside/Outside measurements.
- Sleek modern design.
- Made of poly carbonate plastic. Made to last in the most rugged of environments
Cons
- NO shut-off, which eats battery life
- Does not allow for a quick reset and re-measure.
- Tape lock button is extremely difficult to push down or up.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed ABS yellow case
- The inch/metric blade is built to perform.
- 12’/3.5m Ergonomically designed tape can complete any job.
- The nylon coated blade is stopped and locked with a powerful side lock.
- Easy To Read Blades With Stud Markings And Reinforced Triple Riveted End Hooks.
Cons
- Has metric on the one side, making it difficult to work with.
Pros
- Features a powerful magnetic end that makes it easy to obtain the most accurate measurements.
- The magnet is plated in chrome in order to prevent it from rusting.
- Measuring blade is made out of a durable stainless steel.
- Large measurement indicators including feet marking with inch & metric measure, so you can record precise measurements and prevent errors.
- Shock Absorbent Rubber Case
Cons
- Has metric on the one side, making it difficult to work with
Squares- (Combination and Framing)
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Constructed with a durable cast zinc body and a rust-proof stainless steel blade.
- The black, precision-etched scales are perfect for marking 90° and 45° marking and transferring measurements
Cons
- Ruler will not stay in the slot, and rocks out of the groove at times when screw is loosened.
Pros
- Higher quality 1cr13 hardened steel for long lasting use
- Durable punching press finished graduations
- Front and backside measurable design in inch
- Finished with rust prevention treatment
Cons
- Needs to be covered and protected to prevent rust.
Pros
- Features a cast-zinc body and a rust-proof stainless-steel blade to help ensure lasting use.
- The black, precision-etched scales give you accurate 90° and 45° readings.
Cons
- Aligning Bolt would come out of the grove at times.
Pros
- The FS-24 professional one-piece tempered steel framing square features permanently stamped 1/8″ graduations on both sides.
Cons
- Very Heavy
Sharpening Stones
Top Sellers
Pros
- Dual Grit: Premium Oxide Aluminium Oxide provides 2 x grit combination to sharpen knives and tools. 2 x Stones for the of
- Safety: Simple Elegant Handcrafted Non-Slip Bamboo base secures stone for proper sharpening.
Cons
- Soft and will not keep a flat face. Requires resurfacing at times.
Pros
- Essential sharpening tool for chisel and planer.
- Blade sharpener used by woodworkers of any and all skill levels, from hobbyists to professionals.
- Roller wheel crafted of hardened steel which will never wear down or develop flat spots.
Cons
- Guide to clamp the chisel is not straight, but rounded, so overtitening of the bolt is needed at times.
Pros
Sharpening System features:
- 1 x Coarse Synthetic (400 grit),
- 1 x Medium Synthetic (600 grit), and
- 1 x Natural Fine Arkansas Stone (Approx. 1000-1200 Grit)
- Mounted on a molded plastic triangle with handles on the end for easy stone identification and rotation.
Cons
- Raised lips around the edges means the surfaces are not completely flat.
Planes
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Handle and knob made of real natural wood (stained, polished, smoothed and finished).
- The plane is 14-inches long and 2-inches wide. The 2-inch blade is made of hardened tempered steel, offering durability and precision.
- The wedge control knob is made of solid brass and offers longer life over the clamp that other competitors.
- The pre-mounted iron blade is cold stone sharpened and ready to work with.
- Both blades can continuously be sharpened and touched up.
Cons
- Mounting slots off center and not parallel.
- Depth adjustment knob won’t stay at times.
Pros
- Control and reliability with AmazonBasics.
- Provides flexibility of alignment and depth to produce a smooth, even cut.
- Great for amateur and professional carpenters alike.
- Delivers quality results and its easy adjust ability.
- a Must-have for every tool box.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Durable epoxy coating provides long-lasting protection.
- Machined sides.
- Cutter rests at a 21° angle, ideal for cross-grain planing.
- Cutter is fully adjustable for depth of cut and alignment.
- Gray, cast-iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom.
- Finger-rest at front of plane adds comfort and control
Cons
- Blade adjustments are incredibly stiff.
- Sole of the plane is not totally flat.
Hand Saws
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Uses three cutting surfaces to cut up to 50% faster than traditional handsaws.
- Induction-hardened teeth that stay sharper for longer.
- The ToughCoat finish is a longer lasting, low-friction coating for less drag and easier cutting.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Designed to lend comfort and convenience to every task.
- Back of the saw can be used to mark 45 degree and 90 degree angles for faster measuring.
- Thick, ergonomically designed grip resists slipping for better control and precision.
Handle is thick and easy to hold. Blade is 15 inches long and has 9 TPI. - Ideal for cutting all kinds of wood and plastic.
Cons
- Drifts off the line at times, making it difficult for cutting even ordinary 2×4’s etc.
Pros
- Brass back for maximum rigidity.
- Riveted handle for strength.
- Fine finish
- Universal teeth for general use, cuts along and across the grain.
- For joint cutting & sawing small pieces of wood and wood based materials.
- Comfortable wooden handle securely fixed by rivets.
- High carbon steel blade.
- Precision ground teeth.
Cons
- –
Pros
- ProTouch handle provides ergonomic comfort, even during long work sessions
- The 50-mm blade is designed for flush-cutting door jambs and millwork for tile installation and prep.
- Features a spring-loaded design that enables you to reverse the blade for left- or right-cutting.
Cons
- At times when a decent amount of force is applied while sawing, it pivots in the middle of a cut, causing the blade to skip.
Mallets
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Delivers a softened strike that won’t damage metal, wood, and other hard surfaces.
- Ideal for construction, woodworking, and automotive applications.
Cons
- Can only be used on soft or flat surfaces.
Pros
- Soft, Solid Strike: Delivers a softened strike, whether it’s soft- or hardwoods used in construction, cabinetry, and furniture. Can safely apply pressure without hurting sensitive finishes or surfaces and parts of cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- Classic Hardwood Handles: Minimizes post-strike vibrations.
- Simple Contoured Shape: Contoured for a comfortable grip in multiple hand positions.
Cons
- Leaves black marks
Shaves
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Dual contoured handles reduces strain.
- Includes a generous epoxy coating for long-term durability
- Features a double adjustment screw that allows you to custom-position the cutters for shaping chair seats, creating patterns, and more.
- Heat-treated carbon steel blade that measures 1.78 inches long (45mm) and 0.08 inches thick (2mm)
- Unbreakable blade with the ability to plane complex surfaces. Precision control and a durable, high-quality construction.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Heavy cast iron body with double handles for efficient control
- Steel blade and precision adjustment knobs makes for shaping surfaces, such as chair seats and legs.
- Good starter/beginner plane to use
Cons
- Adjustment screws are hard to twist, making it difficult to adjust the blade.
Pros
- For Wood Craft/Woodworking
- Adjustable cutters ideal for shaping the chair legs & seats,curved templates and many other kinds of curved work.
- SK2 material has a long wear resistance.
- Heat treated, making it tougher and giving it a longer service life.
- Comfortable contoured handles and streamlined design for easy operation.
Cons
- Filing, Honing and sharpening might be needed with the blades.
Marking gauges
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Excellent workhorse for general layout work.
- Feels right, comfortable.
- Designed for comfortable one-handed operation and a balanced feel.
- Allows for perfect hairline layout marks both with, and across wood grain.
- To set: Loosen the thumbscrew and push or pull the rod through the body, then tighten the thumbscrew to lock the setting
Cons
- –
Pros
- Kit comes with 2 additional cutters.
- Indispensable when laying out woodworking joints.
- Head, adjustment knob and tail are solid brass.
- Cutter retracts into countersink in head to protect when not in use.
- Steel beam is 7″ long by 5/16″ in diameter, is hardened and has groove milled along one edge to prevent head from rotating during fine adjustments
- Can be micro adjusted with one hand using 750” diameter knurled adjustment screw.
- Cutter made from hardened steel and will easily slice across wood grain.
Cons
- Knobs and micro adjustment barrel are difficult to grip.
- Blades cannot be honed.
Pros
- Move the scribe to draw: 1/16 inch, 3/16 inch, 5/16 inch, 7/16 inch, 1/8 inch, 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch edge.
- Wide range of uses: Determine the exact position at the center of the board for cutting, pin joints, assembly, etc.
- Convenient to use: Center line locator can be attached to the iron surface, and the pencil can also be inserted.
- Pencil conveniently stored.
Cons
- Some self-adjustment might be needed.
Related Articles
What woodworking tools should i buy first
Hand tools are an excellent way to hone your woodworking skills. Once you master them, you’ll find joy and satisfaction either in using them as a hobby, or taking it to the next step of woodworking for monetary needs. First and foremost is to obtain quality tools, learn how to properly store, use and maintain them. In the case of chisels for instance, you must know how to sharpen them using sharpening stones. Giving yourself time to understand these tools is definitely part of of owning hand tools, and some experts have found that they almost exclusively turn to their hand tools when completing projects. They’re cheap, last a long time, and can be very effective if kept in good condition. In addition, many projects that can be done with power tools, can also be done with hand tools, only quicker.
What woodworking tools should i buy first
Here is a basic list to get started:
Safety Glasses
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Dual mold goggle provides protection from dust and debris.
- The hard coated lens provides tough protection against scratches.
- The anti-fog lens coating provides tough protection against fogging.
- The soft, rubber is dual injected which conforms to the face in order to provide a high level of protection from dust and debris.
- Adjustable, elastic cloth head strap.
- Ventilation channels allow breathability.
- Polycarbonate lens meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards and provides 99.9% UVA/UVB protection.
Cons
- The soft rubber gasket doesn’t mold and seal properly to all facial types, leaving gaps.
Pros
- Non Slip: Soft rubber covered tips grip firmly behind the ears, and the curved extendable temple arms can be angled to ensure a snug fit for any head size or face shape.
- Comfortable enough to wear all day: Contoured, lightweight design hugs cheekbone area, and the soft rubber nose piece makes it sit lightly even after hours at a workshop or construction site.
- Protects against UV light: 380nm UV protection lens coating will shield eyes from 90-100% of harmful UVA and UVB radiation rays, and will also protect against UV light emitted by artificial light sources.
- Can be used in extreme conditions, either indoors or outdoors, in a freezer or for blowing glass.
Cons
- Cannot fit over prescription glasses
- Handles reported to scratch the lenses when folded
Pros
- Delivers outstanding peripheral vision and impact protection in an iconic design.
- Stylish, classic design promotes worker compliance.
- Low base curve frame and clear side shields provide excellent peripheral vision and protection.
- Scratch resistant hard coat polycarbonate lenses in clear and grey offer long-lasting protection.
- Black nylon frame with soft grey temple pads for comfort
Cons
- Lenses become unclear during cleaning process.
Tape Measures
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Revolutionizes not only the tape measure but also expands its utility as never before.
- Large digital display provides easy reading while the advanced features are readily accessible. Features: include 3 memories, US or metric units, center-line calculation, re-zero and Inside/Outside measurements.
- Sleek modern design.
- Made of poly carbonate plastic. Made to last in the most rugged of environments
Cons
- NO shut-off, which eats battery life
- Does not allow for a quick reset and re-measure.
- Tape lock button is extremely difficult to push down or up.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed ABS yellow case
- The inch/metric blade is built to perform.
- 12’/3.5m Ergonomically designed tape can complete any job.
- The nylon coated blade is stopped and locked with a powerful side lock.
- Easy To Read Blades With Stud Markings And Reinforced Triple Riveted End Hooks.
Cons
- Has metric on the one side, making it difficult to work with.
Pros
- Features a powerful magnetic end that makes it easy to obtain the most accurate measurements.
- The magnet is plated in chrome in order to prevent it from rusting.
- Measuring blade is made out of a durable stainless steel.
- Large measurement indicators including feet marking with inch & metric measure, so you can record precise measurements and prevent errors.
- Shock Absorbent Rubber Case
Cons
- Has metric on the one side, making it difficult to work with
Squares- (Combination and Framing)
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Constructed with a durable cast zinc body and a rust-proof stainless steel blade.
- The black, precision-etched scales are perfect for marking 90° and 45° marking and transferring measurements
Cons
- Ruler will not stay in the slot, and rocks out of the groove at times when screw is loosened.
Pros
- Higher quality 1cr13 hardened steel for long lasting use
- Durable punching press finished graduations
- Front and backside measurable design in inch
- Finished with rust prevention treatment
Cons
- Needs to be covered and protected to prevent rust.
Pros
- Features a cast-zinc body and a rust-proof stainless-steel blade to help ensure lasting use.
- The black, precision-etched scales give you accurate 90° and 45° readings.
Cons
- Aligning Bolt would come out of the grove at times.
Pros
- The FS-24 professional one-piece tempered steel framing square features permanently stamped 1/8″ graduations on both sides.
Cons
- Very Heavy
Sharpening Stones
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Dual Grit: Premium Oxide Aluminium Oxide provides 2 x grit combination to sharpen knives and tools. 2 x Stones for the of
- Safety: Simple Elegant Handcrafted Non-Slip Bamboo base secures stone for proper sharpening.
Cons
- Soft and will not keep a flat face. Requires resurfacing at times.
Pros
- Essential sharpening tool for chisel and planer.
- Blade sharpener used by woodworkers of any and all skill levels, from hobbyists to professionals.
- Roller wheel crafted of hardened steel which will never wear down or develop flat spots.
Cons
- Guide to clamp the chisel is not straight, but rounded, so overtitening of the bolt is needed at times.
Pros
Sharpening System features:
- 1 x Coarse Synthetic (400 grit),
- 1 x Medium Synthetic (600 grit), and
- 1 x Natural Fine Arkansas Stone (Approx. 1000-1200 Grit)
- Mounted on a molded plastic triangle with handles on the end for easy stone identification and rotation.
Cons
- Raised lips around the edges means the surfaces are not completely flat.
Planes
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Handle and knob made of real natural wood (stained, polished, smoothed and finished).
- The plane is 14-inches long and 2-inches wide. The 2-inch blade is made of hardened tempered steel, offering durability and precision.
- The wedge control knob is made of solid brass and offers longer life over the clamp that other competitors.
- The pre-mounted iron blade is cold stone sharpened and ready to work with.
- Both blades can continuously be sharpened and touched up.
Cons
- Mounting slots off center and not parallel.
- Depth adjustment knob won’t stay at times.
Pros
- Control and reliability with AmazonBasics.
- Provides flexibility of alignment and depth to produce a smooth, even cut.
- Great for amateur and professional carpenters alike.
- Delivers quality results and its easy adjust ability.
- a Must-have for every tool box.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Durable epoxy coating provides long-lasting protection.
- Machined sides.
- Cutter rests at a 21° angle, ideal for cross-grain planing.
- Cutter is fully adjustable for depth of cut and alignment.
- Gray, cast-iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom.
- Finger-rest at front of plane adds comfort and control
Cons
- Blade adjustments are incredibly stiff.
- Sole of the plane is not totally flat.
Hand Saws
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Uses three cutting surfaces to cut up to 50% faster than traditional handsaws.
- Induction-hardened teeth that stay sharper for longer.
- The ToughCoat finish is a longer lasting, low-friction coating for less drag and easier cutting.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Designed to lend comfort and convenience to every task.
- Back of the saw can be used to mark 45 degree and 90 degree angles for faster measuring.
- Thick, ergonomically designed grip resists slipping for better control and precision.
Handle is thick and easy to hold. Blade is 15 inches long and has 9 TPI. - Ideal for cutting all kinds of wood and plastic.
Cons
- Drifts off the line at times, making it difficult for cutting even ordinary 2×4’s etc.
Pros
- Brass back for maximum rigidity.
- Riveted handle for strength.
- Fine finish
- Universal teeth for general use, cuts along and across the grain.
- For joint cutting & sawing small pieces of wood and wood based materials.
- Comfortable wooden handle securely fixed by rivets.
- High carbon steel blade.
- Precision ground teeth.
Cons
- –
Pros
- ProTouch handle provides ergonomic comfort, even during long work sessions
- The 50-mm blade is designed for flush-cutting door jambs and millwork for tile installation and prep.
- Features a spring-loaded design that enables you to reverse the blade for left- or right-cutting.
Cons
- At times when a decent amount of force is applied while sawing, it pivots in the middle of a cut, causing the blade to skip.
Mallets
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Delivers a softened strike that won’t damage metal, wood, and other hard surfaces.
- Ideal for construction, woodworking, and automotive applications.
Cons
- Can only be used on soft or flat surfaces.
Pros
- Soft, Solid Strike: Delivers a softened strike, whether it’s soft- or hardwoods used in construction, cabinetry, and furniture. Can safely apply pressure without hurting sensitive finishes or surfaces and parts of cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- Classic Hardwood Handles: Minimizes post-strike vibrations.
- Simple Contoured Shape: Contoured for a comfortable grip in multiple hand positions.
Cons
- Leaves black marks
Shaves
Top Sellers:
Pros
- Dual contoured handles reduces strain.
- Includes a generous epoxy coating for long-term durability
- Features a double adjustment screw that allows you to custom-position the cutters for shaping chair seats, creating patterns, and more.
- Heat-treated carbon steel blade that measures 1.78 inches long (45mm) and 0.08 inches thick (2mm)
- Unbreakable blade with the ability to plane complex surfaces. Precision control and a durable, high-quality construction.
Cons
- –
Pros
- Heavy cast iron body with double handles for efficient control
- Steel blade and precision adjustment knobs makes for shaping surfaces, such as chair seats and legs.
- Good starter/beginner plane to use
Cons
- Adjustment screws are hard to twist, making it difficult to adjust the blade.
Pros
- For Wood Craft/Woodworking
- Adjustable cutters ideal for shaping the chair legs & seats,curved templates and many other kinds of curved work.
- SK2 material has a long wear resistance.
- Heat treated, making it tougher and giving it a longer service life.
- Comfortable contoured handles and streamlined design for easy operation.
Cons
- Filing, Honing and sharpening might be needed with the blades.
Marking gauges
Top Sellers
Pros
- Excellent workhorse for general layout work.
- Feels right, comfortable.
- Designed for comfortable one-handed operation and a balanced feel.
- Allows for perfect hairline layout marks both with, and across wood grain.
- To set: Loosen the thumbscrew and push or pull the rod through the body, then tighten the thumbscrew to lock the setting
Cons
- –
Pros
- Kit comes with 2 additional cutters.
- Indispensable when laying out woodworking joints.
- Head, adjustment knob and tail are solid brass.
- Cutter retracts into countersink in head to protect when not in use.
- Steel beam is 7″ long by 5/16″ in diameter, is hardened and has groove milled along one edge to prevent head from rotating during fine adjustments
- Can be micro adjusted with one hand using 750” diameter knurled adjustment screw.
- Cutter made from hardened steel and will easily slice across wood grain.
Cons
- Knobs and micro adjustment barrel are difficult to grip.
- Blades cannot be honed.
Pros
- Move the scribe to draw: 1/16 inch, 3/16 inch, 5/16 inch, 7/16 inch, 1/8 inch, 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch edge.
- Wide range of uses: Determine the exact position at the center of the board for cutting, pin joints, assembly, etc.
- Convenient to use: Center line locator can be attached to the iron surface, and the pencil can also be inserted.
- Pencil conveniently stored.
Cons
- Some self-adjustment might be needed.