CountryPlans Forum

Heya all:


  I have been a lurker here for quite some time and have found the site a great place for ideas and inspiration on building my idea of a dream house. I really enjoy the pix posted that help someone like me to see the process from start to dried in to finished. I have to say thanks!

  I am hoping to start on building soon and would like to ask those who have or are building this: What would your personal "got to have" and "nice to have" tool kit for building a quality small cabin for full time living? I am a pretty reasonably well kitted person, tool wise, but I am a helicopter pilot by trade though in the past have worked as a automotive engine machinist, Journeyman Ironworker (highrise, package buildings, bridgework, rigging, general industrial...) and Journeyman Boilermaker (Nuclear Sub's) so I am more skilled in metal at this point. I have helped build and especially finish detail a large (4200+sf) milled log lodge in the high country of Colorado, so I have at the least some woodworking skill.

  The cabin I hope to build will be small (about 700 - 1000sf) for two people with some sort of small office/second bedroom and a nice porch area for Puddin, the big fat family Bobcat. Probably 1 story to save the climb as knees age but maybe a small loft for spare/occasional room or storage. It heated by wood, some solar/electric, possibly hydronic floor and some sort of back up (propane?). Probably on septic but not quite sure as I am looking at a nice lot in a little town. If on septic I would like to harvest rainwater as much as possible, given 1 of the properties I like has no water or electric and will be a lot more rustic. The house will be built out west (western S.D., though possibly Colorado) in a climate with fairly cold and some snow to way cold and very snowy winters. I really love the winters...

  This project has been brewing in my mind for more than a decade and I have to get it pretty much right the first time as I am hoping to "work" less and do other things outdoorsey that have been on hold due to my EMS schedule.

  Well enough background stuff. Thanks in advance for your help and expertise.


Patty

Welcome to the forum!

I joined this group about a year ago and would not have attempted building a cabin without the support and info found here.
I am building a little at a time and paying cash when I have saved enough to complete the next phase, so I will not have a mortgage payment.

The first thing I did was to buy as many different books on framing as I could find. Home depot had three. My library had five. And almost every book had a little info that the others did not.
John has suggestions for several that are must-reads.
One called Working Alone has helped me the most.

Building in slow stages like I am, It is important to have large tarps. Wood weathers a lot faster than I thought. So far the only tools I have used are:
Shovel
Post hole digger
garden hoe
wheel barrow
All of this was for the posts of the foundation

Power generator (No electricity at the site)
Homemade water level
4 ft level
string line and torpedo level
10" circular saw
drill/driver with 400 lbs. torque for deck screws
framing hammer
framing square
speed square
chalk box
3 quick grip bar clamps (an amazing help in several areas already)
plumb bob
100 ft tape
25 foot tape

And now that I started framing this past week I found that I need at least two 6 ft. ladders, a 20ft ladder.
And I am checking into renting scaffolding, I have not figured that one out yet.
I dont want to rent them for six months and only work on the house a total of three.

At this time I really don't have a wish list of tools other than more hands on deck to help out!

Impressive work experience, Patty.

One of my favorite tools is my electric chain saw- wasted money on cheap ones - none would last- Finally bought a Stihl - I like it - it should last.  It is good not only for logs but beams and big boards also.

With power add a nail gun -framing Porter Cable FR350 is good and fairly cheap -- small high output compressor - Rigid seems to have the best value for the money now 3 HP I think about 6 cfm @ 90 psi.  There are other comparable ones but there are also other small one that dont have the cfm @ 90 psi- they would be slow when you get to doing things that require more air such as running an impact wrench to pull off a tire, spraying texture etc.

Jimmy - check out the crank up scaffold brackets - they go on your 2x4s and only cost around $70 per bracket-

http://www.countryplans.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1108804737


PS- I'm only a lowly pilot.

Jimmy and Glen:

  Thank you for the tool tips. Your comments and suggestions are exactly what I was looking for. I would rather get all I need now rather than getting in the middle of building and figuring out that something, probably simple, was missing from from my tool "kit".  

  I like to play with chain saws and have 2 Husky's, 1 is a small "arborist" saw for climbing and cutting and another for more straight forward logging. They drive Puddin to distraction though and she is skittish for a spell after I get through running them. Imagine a 40# cat that is irritated...

  I inherited a decent collection of snap-on tools from my father's automotive engine rebuilding shop but need to get my wood working toolbox. It seems to be better to get a good tool once rather than bust knuckles with poor quality stuff. My friends and neighbors can attest to that as it saves on copius cursing and the odd trip to the base to get one of the guys to fix broken/damaged/cut body parts. I reckon I have enough scars for now...

Glenn:

Cool another pilot. Do you still go and commit aviation on a regular basis, I hope?

  Thanks again for the ideas, I am always open for suggestions.

Patty

I would consider myself a full time builder and here my common and most used tools - all tools on green tarp will fit into yellow Craftsman tool box. Not shown but often used is a portable compressor along with a framing nailer, trim nailer, stapler, and chop saw with table and horses. Yep I actually use my safety glasses and ear plugs, can you see them?

That looks like a working man's truck, Ryan.

Yeah, Patty-- I'm just waiting for my plane to get out of the shop - C-205 - had some corrosion and had trouble finding parts so was put on the back burner for 3 years.  He's working on it again now.  I have instrument and commercial also but haven't done much with that.  16 trips to Mexico with a couple Indiana Jones trips included.  I'll have to get current again but shouldn't be a problem unless too much senility has set in. :-/

That is a monster cat.

Hate to have that one decide when to become a lap cat, especially if, like Tinkerbell 25 years ago she thought that laps could be where she wanted them to be, for instance an outstretched arm, got right upset if I wanted to move or found her 6 pounds heavy. (She took the concept of cursing--"well piss on you"--quite literally.)

I'll add a few things to the list:

I used a Paslode framing nailer which runs off of small gas cartridges.  I have no power at the site.  This is an incredible time saver.  I rented it for
20-30/day.

A "Wonderbar" pry bar, cat's paw, heavy long-handled sledge hammer to persuade things and also install tongue and groove underlayment.  

Get a couple of different hammers.  You'll find a favorite, and another you never want to use so try out a few.  I have one with a flare at the end of the handle that makes it difficult to remove it from the loop on the tool belt easily - it never gets used (the hammer).  A hammer with a magnetic head that will hold nails to start nails that going in a place that is out of reach is a great help, too.

If you are digging, an iron digging bar is useful.

For pouring a cement slab, get an aluminum - I'll call it a cement rake.

I bought a 32 foot fiberglass extension ladder.  This is long enough to extend a good distance up the roof, laid flat on the roof and extending to the ground on the 12/12 roof of my story and a half.  It's improper use of a ladder but was very useful.  Get ladder hooks for your ladder so it can be hooked over the ridge.  The guys that installed the metal roof did it this way.

Get a sheetrock square.  It has a 4 foot long leg.  Speed squares, and tri-squares are must haves, too.

Caulking guns.  If all you can find are the cheap overseas models for $3, better get two.  If you are going to be gluing flooring and/or sheathing, consider the large size gun.  They are better built and you will save some money on the larger adhesive tubes.

I'm sure there is lots more and I'll add them if they come to me.   Have fun.

Tom

My 2 cents.
Power miter box(save time
I used the cordless nailer to and it is nice. No hose to pull around.
A good tool belt or apron
And what I love most is The bucket Boss. It holds all my hand tools for easy carrying.

   Wow! Thanks to all for the pix and comments. A while back I demo'ed a  really nice double compound Hitachi chop box, then bought one. I got it for finish work and some household furniture projects I have dreamed up but the slider reach means it can easily cut 2x10's. Ryan, your tailgate shot is great and is a help to me, thank you.

  With a bit of headscratching about location I hope to be starting in the spring on this project. I have a very nice set of plans of a 1 bedroom cabin with a half loft measuring 20X22 (about 660sf) that has a nice feel, proportion and layout to it but I may punch it out a tad in 1 or both directions for just a little more volume. The pictures of the cabins in the gallery section really give great ideas on room layout and intelligent building practices.

  I sold my house a couple months ago. It was a 2700+sf 3/2.25/2 ranch and 700sf simple gabled guest house out back. The master br/bath in that was more than 2/3 of the size of the small house I'd like to build. Small is definately more cozy to me. I am living in what used to be my guest house now while I prep for the move outwest and love the feel of the more compact layout. Lots less cleaning and maintenence too.

  For a strictly 1 floor cabin I really like the layout of Mr. Raabe's Volks cabin. A huge bedroom and another small room for the office/2nd br. Not too sure on the foundation type yet. The lot or acreage and location will pretty much determine that...

  Amanda: Puddin is pretty much great big baby with only occasional bouts of grumpiness. She loves her muttonchops scratched HARD. Bobcats are headbutt greeters, when they (I reckon I am an honorary Bobcat to Puddin and Boofus) meet, they tilt their eyes down and bump foreheads and then rub faces then do the kissy/face licking thing. She doesn't meow but purrs really loud and has yips and barks like a puppy when it is play or food time. Your comment about lapcat cracked me up. Been there, experienced that, got the (stained) t-shirt. She will most definately let you know if she wants attention or not. Kind of a genial aloofness alot of the time.


 Thanks to all again for your help and good luck with your projects.

Patty
 

A lot of random thoughts.

If you're running extension cords, watch your size and length.  What amperage you can use safely goes down pretty fast.  I have an inexpensive AC Skillsaw because of that.  It works, probably won't last too long.  But it didn't get burnt out fast because of too-small extension cords.

I keep my wunderbar SHARP and use the right angle part as a chisel a lot.  Files--or carbide sharpeners or scythe stones--are good for sharpening.  Not so much use for a file any more, circular saws now all use carbide tips.  

Had a friend doing mostly remodeling, the one tool he couldn't live without was a sliding bevel gauge.

Check the levels in the store for levelness.  Four-foot levels are useful for more than leveling things.  (Once worked for a fool who watche us use mine on the job because we were putting things 4 feet apart, went out and got himself an expensive three foot job--not the only reason I'd call him a fool.  He ended up as a building inspector.   ::) )

Digging sticks are mandatory for my hard soil.  

Gloves--anything that fits!  Womenswork ones are nice, but they don't work real well for my short fingers.

Any day now, I'm going to get/make a nice tool box.  Be nice to be able to find things.  Although I'm not all that happy about becoming a fanatic when one little nail set or something is a quarter of an inch out of place.  I don't know who I channeling when I get like that, but I do.

I have occasionally gotten plantar fasciitis.  (that's when the first step out of bed in the morning is excruciating)  Occasionally could be traced to a too-heavy tool belt.  One extra lightweight wrench seemed to bring it on for me.

Also on my list is a pair of made-by-me and the right height saw horses. It's good experience for cutting rafters, and nice ones that you can saw into without feeling guilty or hitting a metal part are wonderful.  Although one time I went overboard with 4x4 crossbars and the legs dadoed in at an angle.  Made for a great scaffold.  Really really sturdy.

Hey Patty,
I thought of another one- a major tool I use for my cabin.  Probably bigger than you are thinking of but --how about a sawmill - make your own lumber.  You do not stop to see if you can afford wood or not -- you just drive around looking at tall trees, lusting after them and thinking how many boards you could get out of them- then you need a way to move logs - and things kind of snow ball.

Mine is similar to the band sawmill in this article, and is the Wood Wizard, made near here.
http://www.motherearthnews.com/library/2002_December_January/Choosing_the_Right_Sawmills

I paid $3500 used but with an extension to over 20'.

Note that codes require graded lumber but I know of a person here who got a variance and built a 3 story home with his own lumber. Maybe 2 story with large usable attic.

What are your thoughts about Harbor Freight tools?  Are they a good or bad value?  I'd appreciate your comments....!

Thanks
Chuck

QuoteWhat are your thoughts about Harbor Freight tools?  Are they a good or bad value?  I'd appreciate your comments....!

Thanks
Chuck

 Cheap junk , used by a skilled wood worker marginal results,  used by a DIY' er , poor results , feeling of not being able to Do It Yourself , buy the best you can afford you'll only have to buy it once , unless you loose it / lone it out . If you do lone it out , write down , to who , and when , WHERE YOU"LL BE ABLE TO SEE IT AND REMIND YOURSELF , who has it !!!!  Most of my" LOST "tools where LOANED OUT TO FRIENDS >:( But to whom , I can't tell ya , or I 'd go FIND UM .

 BTW the skilled guy would wear it out in a few use's making it useless, IMO. PEG

Heres some basic hand tools , if your of that mind of doing it .
(https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/handtools.jpg)      

I love it! People taking pictures of their tools - what could be more personally expressive and information rich?

Worth at least 1,000 words.

This couldn't have been done (by normal people) even three years ago.

Must...resist...inner child urges....
Ok, I made it. (sorry, army and auto garage influences)  
Now, why couldn't this have been done 3 years ago?

Only a few years ago most people didn't have digital cameras or the ability to easily upload them into something like this forum. The old forum archive is almost totally text based (with the exception of a few scans and photos that I had to FTP to the website).

Now, for most of us, a digital camera is just another tool in the box and we increasingly find uses for it. More and more our forum postings are becoming visual as well as verbal and are accordingly richer and more valuable.

Also, I'm currently reading a fascinating book about historical and cultural evolution (Nonzero, by Robert Wright) and am seeing indications of our quickly changing cultural evolution everywhere. This board is just one example of people sharing their hard won evolutionary wealth (information and experience) in a non-zero sum game where the larger community is the beneficiary.

John I totally agree. I pack my camera every day . Shots of wall cavity's , under ground plumbing , wiring . For just a better "menory" on what that "detail "was  back at the job site when your in the shop . In the store to compare $ apples to apples on stuff .  

 No where is that picture , it's in the puter, safely stored . And the  fact you can spend 2 hours discribing how to do it and thats still if"ie  the picture shows the good/ bad . Way it was done , very cool .  

 My camera is ANOTHER tool in the box. Paul  

I agree, digital cameras can be life savers-especially camera phones or pda phones...they just are there and can be invaluable when needed.  

I think boards with more adult topics like this one (how many teenagers are members here do you think?) are slower to take up technology.  That is where my question comes from.  I know at least 7 years ago I had a digital camera as did most younger people I knew.  And I have been a member of other communities way longer than 3 years ago where pictures were being posted instead of explaining things.  Heck, in most forums the first thing new members do is toss out the stock avatars and replace them with personal pics. That, also is where my question comes from.  I just thought it was an odd statement "This couldn't have been done (by normal people) even three years ago."  Heck YABB has been around longer than that.  I run into this all the time at work now...I just took over the IT department.  I implement technology to make my coworker's lives easier all the time...the problem is, few want to take the time to learn how to use it and when they finally do, they are amazed at what they could have been doing all along (and I work in an office with lots of alphabet papers [degrees] on the walls).

Just being on this board, I think the members here are far ahead of the curve of a lot of (dare I say older, but never "normal") people.  The next generation of software will be browser based.  The next generation of web sites will be dynamic, collaborative sites, similar to forums.  Check out Microsoft SharePoint Services.  Just take a look onto sites like Myspace and realize the age of the kids creating these pages...the younger generation certainly does not have trouble setting the time on the vcr...they practically come out of the womb aware of the web.  My almost 5 year old son plays games online, my almost 2 year old daughter emulates him and knows the mouse makes stuff on the screen work.  I myself am finding it tough to keep up with things and I had my first PC in 1982 and have built my own since.  As many knocks as the next generations takes...they already think outside of the box and make objects do tasks they weren't built for...check out http://www.i-hacked.com/ Most of the stuff they do has limited use, but it is the point that someone thought about doing it (hacking elevators?)  The younger generation is really team oriented.  Maybe we can call them generation collaboration.

None of this is meant to be a knock, just an eye opener...we really could have done this three years ago.

Hey Glenn I couldn't figure out a way to get black copters or a knock on officials in, but an ok rant still?  :P

One thing at a time Daddymem - your skills will improve as you get more experience--- what I do not understand is how you managed to leave that one alone-------the first one ---- you have really been working on your self control..... now if I can just leave it alone-----

As to knocking on officials --- I'll hold off until they again deserve it. :-/  --and black choppers are good just about anytime but all in all - yes -- a decent rant.

I bought my air compressor and my framing nailer from Harbor Freight...and they both have lasted me longer than it took to build my cabin... see www.countryplans.com/nash.html ... and I shot a boatload of nails and brads.  Saved my arm, wrist, and shoulders.

I've yet to be burned by tools from Harbor Freight.

My opinion, of course.

Johnson Level 86481 48" Aluminum Box Beam Level (BigX)
Johnson Level 925 25' "Big Johnson" Power Tape
Use the "Buy Both and Save"
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009WG4EA/ref=nosim/102-9793087-6732960?n=228013

Add:
Sheffield WH58009 Folding Lock Back Utility Knife
For free with coupon code: SHEFELDQ42K5
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P9G/ref=nosim/102-9793087-6732960?n=228013

[highlight]Total: $20 free shipping[/highlight]


careful Glenn  :D

QuoteHeres some basic hand tools , if your of that mind of doing it .
(https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/handtools.jpg)      

That's some nice tools. Glad to see them being used and taken care of.

QuoteI bought my air compressor and my framing nailer from Harbor Freight...and they both have lasted me longer than it took to build my cabin... see www.countryplans.com/nash.html ... and I shot a boatload of nails and brads.  Saved my arm, wrist, and shoulders.

I've yet to be burned by tools from Harbor Freight.

My opinion, of course.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Category.taf?CategoryID=325&pricetype=

You can bet I'll be careful, Daddymem.

Now, a question -- what if you just want the Big Johnson and not necessarily the 48" Johnson - do you only get them at the same time or can you get them separately? :-/

Tool Tote + Angle Square + Tool Set $20 @ Amazon

Get this Tool Tote:
McGuire Nicholas 22217 16" Width Universal Tool Tote in Black and Yellow Color Combination
http://w3t.org/?u=fxl
Use Buy Both and Save to get this too:
Johnson Level RAS-1 7" Aluminum Rafter Angle Square w/Manual
http://w3t.org/?u=fxm

Add for free this tool set with code MCGREGFTSQ45:
Sheffield WH58003 2 Piece Antique Tool Set
http://w3t.org/?u=fxn

$20 total, free shipping

I don't know how he left it alone either .... that first one.

More Johnson fun for Glenn with Amazon:
Circular Saw + Level + Tape Measure $60 with free shipping

Get this circular saw:
http://w3t.org/?u=g65

Using the "buy both and save" option
Add this 48" Johnson :o level
http://w3t.org/?u=g66
and this 25' Big Johnson :o :o tape mesure:
http://w3t.org/?u=g67

Use code: CRCSAWLEVEL2 to get all for $60
Happy building.

Clamp deal:
Columbian 27200 12-Piece Clamp Kit
http://w3t.org/?u=g6k

   *  Two 2" C-clamps, two 4" C-clamps
   * Two 1" Spring Clamps, two 2" spring clamps
   * Two 18" slip-clutch bar clamps, two 24" slip-clutch bar clamps

Regularly: $77.00
Now: $18.94
Add something to reach $25 for free shipping

I'm gonna leave the Johnson alone for a while, Daddymem - and I'm not sure if I need the clamp - even for that price. :-/

"Laser" Level deals at Amazon:

STRAIT-LINE 6041100CD Laser Level LL30 List $33.53, $8.94 after rebate (1)
http://w3t.org/?u=g91

STRAIT-LINE 6041300CD Intersect Laser Level List $84.64, $19.99 after rebates (2)
http://w3t.org/?u=g92

Strait-Line 6041103 Laser Level X3 List $29.99, $14.99 after rebates (2)
http://w3t.org/?u=g93

Get to $25.00 for free shipping

Rebate Forms:
http://g-images.amazon.com/images/G/01/00/10/00/15/21/36/100015213665.pdf
http://g-images.amazon.com/images/G/01/00/10/00/14/31/91/100014319137.pdf

Read the reviews
caveat emptor

Just one thing that I would add to all the great suggestions from everyone else:  a good radio that you can crank up the volume!  If you are planning on working by yourself, or even with someone else, it can make the experience more enjoyable.  A cd player might be even nicer.  

Oh I dunno, just guessing, but I can picture PEG or Glenn singing to themself while he works, sans radio.  ;)

Possibly sometimes, Daddymem, but I may surprise you.  I have a gigantic stereo I fire up every once in a while and play Primus and Les Claypool loud enough to blow the roof off the underground complex.  Les  may be the best bass player in the world.  I have 3 of their music DVD's for about 10 hours worth of non stop head banging. ;D  I have a video projector. I can hook it to so I can have my own rockin movie theatre in the Underground Cabin.

Here's a link to very fine home building music. :)

http://www.mp3.com/primus/artists/4452/summary.html

Note that if you listen and decide you have to have it you can also order it through John's Amazon Link on the book page.  Check out the DVD's--- excellent - a few maybe a bit mature (or immature ) rated.

I'm thinking some blasting some Sigur Ros whilst constructing would produce...um...interesting results.

Gotta admit I never heard of them but thats the kind of stuff I like.  It sounds like work music. :)

They even let you try it on for size.  

http://www.artistdirect.com/nad/music/artist/card/0,,937148,00.html

Click  --Takk - Full album stream

Their videos are mind blowing...ahem, when you are swinging that hammer on that victoria's cottage (http://www.jshow.com/y2k/listings/44.html) it really helps. :D
http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/media/dldvideo.php
and their art too
http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/media/art.php
would fit right in on the walls of a builder's cottage (http://www.countryplans.com/cottage1.html)  :D

Yeah- CYA Daddymem, with that new tool belt while viewing their video from my computer projector on the nice new white siding of the Grandfathers Cottage.

SSssss-- thanks for the link.  Boy these projects really wear you out, eh, Daddymem?

Along the "music for the work site" theme ...

My youngest recently gave me a copy of "The best of Steve Forbert: What kind of guy am I?" ... (I do recommend this disc).  I had never heard of this person, but did enjoy the disc very much ... drove my wife crazy by playing it over and over.

Later we had the chance to see him in concert ... an amazing talent!
http://www.steveforbert.com/DISCOGRAPHY/BestofPage.htm

Thanks, JRR - I checked out the samples - kind of a Bob Seeger without the yelling.  I think I could hammer to that.

I haven't set up any music at the barn for a good long while, but I think I may drive a bit better when I'm listening to books or music in the car--something that is interesting enough for me to pay some attention to and not get lost in thought and, ahem, drive right by my own driveway.

Think it would have to be music, can't imagine hammering and missing something in a book.

I've done that before, Amanda, but the last time it wasn't my fault - grids of roads every 1/2 mile in the valley - kids think its cool to steal signs - sometimes the county guys don't know where they are - they put the wrong sign on my street - I thought I had passed it by 2 miles. :-/

A few years ago they took a stop sign and some people died so I don't have too much use for the little pranksters.  

Road signs don't last long here, either, nor mile marker signs.

Although for some reason church signs do.  So we tend to give instructions--turn as if to go to the Pope Chapel Methodist Church or whatever, then about five miles.

I've never stolen signs, although once we gave a party for a friend leaving the country, changed all the street names from his house to ours (paper hinged and hung over the originals).

I'm usually the "chipper" guy on the job site that everybody tells"Shut up!  Stop singing!", even when the radio is on!  Their problem, not mine.  Definately makes the work go faster.  

Essential for framing:
Safety glasses ( I like Smith and Wesson sunglasses myself, cheap),compressor, nailer, good strong circular saw, sawzall, sturdy, comfortable nail bags (spend as much as you can wilst staying sane, trust me on this one), Flat bar, crow bar, single jack, framing hammer (I usually spend as little as possible, get a waffle head, hatchet handle, wood handle, my preference), cats paw, come along, 1/2 corded drill, utility knife, 3/4" chisel, speed square, levels of all sizes, string line, good boots (trust me), chalk line, jigsaw, bar clamps, pipe clamps, c-clamps

electrical:
linemans pliers, basic wire strippers, finishing hammer, same drill from above, 3/4" augers, fish tape, sharpie, 6in1 screwdriver cordless drill,

plumbing:
Chop saw, knife, tubing cutter, PVC cutter, pipe wrenches, crescent wrench

drywall:
stainless mud pan, stainless knifes (8",12"), roto zip, knife, T-square, buckets, buckets, buckets, (trust me on the stainless, ok?)

finish carpentry and cabinets:
Plunge router, orbital sander, combination square, biscuit cutter, bevel square, nail sets, 16ga finish nailer, 18ga brad nailer/crown stapler, knee pads

roofing:
Roofing nailer, roofing knife (v notch in blade), hammer tacker, tin snips, new (cheap) tennis shoes (trust me)

Each category may include tools in previous categories.  This is definately not a bare bones list, but with these tools, I have been able to do almost everything I wanted to.  I do have some other, less often used tools that are awsome when needed, but can be done without.  I can almost never bring myself to get the best that money can buy, just the best my money can buy.  The little tools are the killers, the ones you don't expect.  Do yourself a favor and try to spend $25-$50 a paycheck on the little tools.  BTW, two of the best tools not listed are the internet, and public library.  Knowledge, is required before experience can be gained.  If you have the time, take a job on a construction crew, or volenteer at habitat for humanity.  The experience and knowledge imparted, if you are humble, and a good observer is the most important tool you can have.

P.S.  On the remodel of my house, I had, a cordless drill, worm drive circular saw, sawzall (harbor frieght), cordless miter saw, nail bags w/framing essentials in them, borrowed compressor, borrowed roofing nailer, the electrical tools, plumbing tools, and drywall tools listed.  It is more difficult, but if you have no other choice then that is the way it is.  Don't be too proud to ask to borrow a tool from a friend, or ask for help.  Always respect the tool,(and friend) and return it promptly.

Sorry for the long windedness!!!

QuoteDo yourself a favor and try to spend $25-$50 a paycheck on the little tools.  

I started doing this a year ago. It is a marvelous plan! I highly recommend doing the same.

Long winded, Hobbiest? Hardly. This was the exact sort of stuff I was looking for. I am going to cut and paste to print and compare to my tool pile. Your comment on best money can buy compared to best MY money can buy really is appropriate as it would be pretty easy for me to get carried away by spending a chunk of change that could have paid for a cabinet or sink or whatever to have some really fancy gizmo as opposed to the thing that will do the the job safely and quickly (hopefully more than once).

We bought several sets of plans both during John's new year sale for the buildings themselves, additional detail ideas for a couple other sets of plans I already had and the fact that we hope to build several small houses in the coming 8 to 10 years and kind of migrate between them, maybe flipping 1 or 2 for a profit over time. The comment on "best MY money can buy" is gonna stick.

Thanks again all for the ideas and heres another gratuitous pix of our cuddly little bobcat, Puddin, at about 10 months and my partner... Puddin is gonna really love having a bigger place to play....

Patty

QuoteI haven't set up any music at the barn for a good long while, but I think I may drive a bit better when I'm listening to books or music in the car--something that is interesting enough for me to pay some attention to and not get lost in thought and, ahem, drive right by my own driveway.

Think it would have to be music, can't imagine hammering and missing something in a book.

Amanda,
Listening to books can be done during some of the quieter jobs. I can remember listening to Seven Years in Tibet (much better than the movie IMHO) while taping drywall.  With that book you are truly transported to a different place and time and I would rather be anywhere else when taping drywall!!  :P

judy

Good information from you as usual, Hobbiest.  I also find that lower use tools can be lighter duty, but for the rough tasks, a top quality one is best.  I bought 2 Remington electric chainsaws-lasted about 1 year each, but finally broke out the bigger money and bought a Stihl - no more problems.  Notching logs and misc. wood butchery can be rough on a cheap saw.

Patty, does Puddin ever have wild moments?  I had a cat named Baby that was very large - maybe a bobcat cross - he had a real mean streak if you tried to correct him.  He would actually attack - chase you if you didn't back off -or even if you did.  You didn't dare lose eye contact with him.  Yours looks pretty mellow though.

Another point on the tool front, you need some rafter hooks for some tools.  The circular saw, and framing nailer need them.  It makes it so much easier, faster, and to a point safer to just hang the tool on a piece of framing instead of raising and lowering between operations.  Taunton press (the fine homebuilding people) have a magazine out right now that reviews pretty much all of the tools out there.  I recommend getting it.  There is a lot of insite there.  For the most part you can't go wrong with Porter Cable, DeWalt, Bosch, Rigid, or Hitatchi.  The magazine had table saw surveys, and one of them was for the contractor class with wheels.  To my surprise, Ryobi was rated 3rd, after only Bosch, and Rigid.  The only complaint they had was that the knobs were smaller, and it took more revolutions to adjust the blade for bevel and height.  At a price half of the competion, that is the one I am going to get when I can.  A lot of people poo-poo Ryobi, I have had good luck with them.  I have the 5 piece cordless set from years ago (compound miter, sawzall, circ saw, drill, rotozip, flashlight), have added to that their impact driver (best $70 I've spent, first day I drove 540 1 1/4 drywall screws through hardie backer on a single charge!), Ryobi jigsaw (get the Bosch or Rigid), and Ryobi plunge router.  My only real complaint is on the jigsaw, which doesn't seem as stable as it could be (bevel lock moves, blade roller isn't too positive).  Biscuit cutter is PC, and I love it!  That is one of my favorite tools.  PC orbital, Black and Decker belt sander (dragster model), don't get it, get the Ryobi, the $99 one, it is the same as the bosch, half the price.  Power planer is Ryobi, love it.  My chop saw is Rigid, got it for $250 with a 16ga finish nailer, no complaints with either.  Compressor is PC, twin tank 3hp, 4gallon, enough to run 2 framing nail guns at job sit speed (from experience), and roofing nailers.  Fraiming nailer is PC, well made tool, with depth of drive adjustment which means you can use it for sheeting as well (nail heads should not break the surface).  Also suggested is the Bostitch, love that gun, works great and light.  Roofing nailer is Bostitch, love it.  Sawzall is harbor freight, $16, has worked for me so far.  When it dies I will get the Bosch I think.  I tend to get the more expensive on the tools that I won't use too often, and end up using them a lot.  Biscuit cutter is favorite, followed by router, and orbital sander.  I made my kids birthday presents this year, puppet theater, play sink, play stove, and jewelery box.  Made a couple of cool step stools for the shorter people in the Juhl clan as well.  Those things were great practice for the cabinets that I am now building for the REANTAL we are in(ARGGGGG).  Anyway, just an example of my likes and dislikes, for what its worth.

Glen:

  She is pretty easy going, but on her terms. She absolutely loves getting scratched, rubbed, nuzzled, headbutted and petted. But she has pretty easy to discern patterns  to her behavior. When she has had enough she often takes a finger in her mouth and growls a bit and I say "ok, lets break" and we both back off, or she just walks away.

  I am big, but like a sheepdog a bit smarter than I look. I realize she IS a wild animal first and she could, in a flash give me 4 nice full penetration fang marks. She used to have a "pet" cat, binx, that has since ran off. Once, when trying to get binx out from behind the frige, binx started to make a sorrowful and strident MEOWWWWW, and Puddin came over and quicker than I imagined she could, bit me 2 times on the left a$$cake demonstrating her protection for the little binx and displeasure with me for bothering her little "pet". Eight nice deep punctures and a lesson learned...

Patty

I also am having great luck with Ryobi products.  

My first was a Ryobi 4-cycle brush cutter.  My old Stihl had given me years of service, but the Ryobi is lighter and does more work.  Its now getting a bit old and parts are scarce ... not sure what I will replace it with, Ryobi doesn't sell the 4-cycle anymore, ... but it sure doesn't owe me anything.

Next I replaced my worn out Dewalt 3/8" drill with a Ryobi.  More powerful, easier to control while installing deck screws ... has already outlasted the Dewalt two times over.

My first and only table saw is a fold-up, roll-around Ryobi 10".  Great piece of project equipment.

I just gave my SIL a Ryobi electric chainsaw so he wouldn't try to borrow my Stihl gas unit anymore.  Haven't had any feedback yet on this one.

Had a salesman explain to me that Ryobi is just a marketing outfit ... has no manufacturing of its own.  Has other folks make products to its specifications.  Don't know if this is true or not.

I have heard that Ryobi is the lower version of Rigid, and see many similarities between many of their tools.  But then as I said, the belt sander is the same as Bosch.  I wouldn't recommend their sawzall though.  I blew one up cutting a truck body in half.  Really shouldn't have happened with a better tool (again from experience).  Their 18v drill has been great to me.  I have used it for communications, electrical, and plumbing, as well as framing stuff.  Works great.  Get yourself some extra batteries.  You never can have too many really.  I use my drill to drill the holes, and the impact to drive the screws...love it!

Great info here, keep it coming!

Another deal for your weekly spending:
McGuire Nicholas 22217 16" Width Universal Tool Tote in Black and Yellow Color Combination (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009XN3FC/ref=nosim/002-9506841-1614442?n=228013)
Scroll down to Buy Both and Save
Johnson Level RAS-1 7" Aluminum Rafter Angle Square w/Manual (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00002N5O6/ref=bxgy_cc_text_b/002-9506841-1614442?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=228013)
Add for free with the code MCGREGFTSQ45
Sheffield WH58003 2 Piece Antique Tool Set (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P82/ref=nosim/002-9506841-1614442?n=228013)

Total: $20.00 shipped

And yet another:
Sheffield WH580035 5 Piece Plier Set (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P7I/ref=nosim/002-9506841-1614442?n=228013)
Scroll down to Buy Both and Save
Johnson Level 4500M 9" Magnetic Aluminum Torpedo Level (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009WG3ZA/ref=bxgy_cc_text_b/002-9506841-1614442?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=228013)
Add for free with the code SHEFELDQ42K5
Sheffield WH58009 Folding Lock Back Utility Knife (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P9G/ref=nosim/002-9506841-1614442?n=228013)

Total: $14.00 Shipped

Almost forgot one of the most important tools (though not exactly necessary to build a house), a tape measure.  If you are going to be building the whole house, I recommend biting the bullet and getting yourself one of the Fat Max tapes.  Quite a bit more money, but worth every penny.  You'll also need a bunch of pencils, and get yourself a sharpie, and a lumber crayon too.  Sharpies work great for marking lumber (dry lumber), and wire, plumbing, anything that you need to remember its origions

If you're working by yourself, a Fat Max will reach out over 10 feet either to read directly or to catch on to something.  Well worth it.  

I'm mildly addicted to folding rules with an extension.  Got used to measuring spaces and then transferring the marks without looking at the distance.  

They are why "carpenter's overalls and dungarees have the odd-shaped pocket--if the rule don't fit right the pants weren't made right!  

The folding rules only go to 6 feet (people have made 8-footers, but they almost never fit the pocket).  You can measure this way with a tape measure as well, but with long measurements a helper is nice.

What I usually do to get the perfect measurement that you would usually use a folding rule for, is measure from one side and mark the 1 or 2 foot mark, then flip around and measure from the other corner to the mark.  Marking the first one at an easy place makes for easy addition.

Good one, hobbiest - I haven't done that one before - always added the tape width and hoped it was right or eyeballed the tape into the corner etc.  Thanks

Hmm. Hobbiest's suggestion would have worked on a project that I ended up doing another way a few weeks ago.  Might have been faster, too.

 Stanley 30 ft. Leverlock Tape and Stud Finder Combo (http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_SessionID=@@@@2054608409.1138039160@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccgiaddgkjididlcegecegjdghldgfm.0&vertical=SEARS&pid=00939316000&sid=I0084400010000100312&AFFL=Y&ihtoken=1) Cost: $12.49 Don't forget the rebate for free shipping.
$30.00 for finder alone at Lowes (http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=121922-355-77-255)
Glenn, you better skip this deal...too many false positives.  ;D

I tend to cause malfunctions in stud finders---- I guess I overwhelm them. :o --False positives- hmmpf---they just can't handle such a staggering amount of stud so nearby.  Not a false positive--- I just overpower their sensors. :-/

QuoteGood one, hobbiest - I haven't done that one before - always added the tape width and hoped it was right or eyeballed the tape into the corner etc.  Thanks

Much more precise than "reading the bend".  I figured this trick out on my own while doing metal work (building aux. boxes for the back of trailers), and astounded the "experienced" finish carpenters I worked with on my first construction gig.  Its like they say...if you know the tricks, you know the trade.

I almost forgot to tell you guys.  I just brought my new Ryobi table saw home, and tommorrow will be using it for the first time.  My landlady is having me build a new closet/pantry type unit where their washer and dryer is.  She is having me do this while her contractor husband is out of town (to get it done, and done right!  A license doesn't always mean you know what you are doing!).  I'll give updates.

Your trick reminded me of a simple one I sometimes use to quickly find a center.  Eyeball center - rough guess it- take an arbitrary number of about 1/2 -    stick the tape to one side - mark the estimated center- stick it to the other side - mark it (same number) again.  Now measure the small space in front of you -divide it in 1/2 -mark it and that is center.  Works whether your guess is under or over 1/2.  I most commonly use this to measure center of steel beams for raising with my crane.

Don't know if it's the case over there, but in Australia tape measures have an add on measurement marked on the case. You just butt the tape housing up to whatever you are measuring and add the extra. The tape hook is also moveable, it should move the thickness of the hook. This for measuring hooked over or butted up to the object measured.  ;)

We have that too - a little hard to see if you are down to the 1/16th or not in some places, and then how do you add 3" to 21'11 3/8" --nearly beyond my capabilities. :-/ :)  I usually cut it close then shoot the gap full of nails with the nail gun --just kidding- maybe. ;D

Ah! The beauty of the metric system, that would be 6690 + 75. Failing that, what you said or 10lb finishing hammers work. There you go, another useful tool ;D

Reminds me of a yarn, and I"ll tell you in American. My mate Bruno and I where working a job together and I had cut a piece of timber a 1/2" to long (Bruno gave me a crook measurement). I told him to hand it back and I would trim it to size. "No worries" say's Bruno and gives it a whack with his big hammer, "see fit's perfectly". "Oh yea", say I, "your end might be ok but mines out 1/2 an inch". So he trundles down to my end and gives it another whack, "she'll be right it'll shrink in this heat".
I shake my head and carry on (after he had gone I pulled it out and cut it to size).
A bit later he comes back and checks it out, "see I told you it would be ok," says he. "No mate" I said "it seen you coming with your finishing hammer and shrunk in terror". Ya see, Bruno was a master craftsman; he knew how to get the best out of a piece of timber. ;D

I don't think anyone has mentioned the "cheeter 10101" crosscut guide for making easy repetitive angular cuts when using a powered circular saw.

I bought mine from Northern Tools, but it was not on the shelf ... had to be ordered.  Not sure if they carry it any longer.  I bought two ... so hopefully I could always find at least one.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000224SN/002-1426507-9071237?v=glance&n=228013

Unfortunately the above photo only shows a simple right angle crosscut.

I think you worked too hard on that Jonesy.

I'd have just taken my little Stihl Electric Chainsaw and cut a nearly right sized chunk out of it and then hit the post next to it again with the 4 Kilo finishing hammer. :-/

Doing a built in for my landlady.  Love the ryobi table saw.  I need to build side and outfeed tables though, with adjustable legs.  Would make it a lot easier to cut a full sheet of plywood!

I just put this under the other post too but I think it needs to be here also.

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000ASDMK.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)

This is in my opinion the best ever sawzall type saw.  Many times more versatile than a straight one and well worth the extra money.  If you get into an odd position  - cutting a circle etc. you can't beat this saw.  Head swivels 180 degrees - blade rotates 360 degrees.

spam deleted

Lots of good information in this thread!
I love Harbor Freight!  I have never had a problem with their fibreglass handled hammers, for instance.  I also bought a pancake compressor and nail gun, which so far have worked great.  I would not, however, buy their cheap combination wrenches; as cheap as I am, some things you can't "economize" on.
Sears is a good source for many tools. I found the Craftsman "Quantum Pro" circular saw and variable speed 3/8" drill motor a good value.  Also like the fact you can get warranty exchanges on the spot.
I've had variable luck with Ryobi tools;  love my reciprocating saw, but burned out a 3/8" drill motor rather quickly.  I'll be looking at their tablesaw, fer sure.
One "essential" tool in my opinion is a set of good quality wood chisels, kept scarily sharp.  I like English ones, for some reason... can't say why.  Best quality in any cutting bit, blade, etc. pays off.  

Storage stacker and Bucket organizer (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BO89U8/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013) Scroll down to "Buy Both and Save"
Utility knife (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P9G/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)
Plier set (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P7I/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)

---

-$3.00 (automatic witht the buy both and save)
-$10.00 Code: FREEKNIF
-$8.00 Code: SHEFELDQ42K5

---

$10.94 Shipped free

Builder's Tool Bag (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00002N7XF/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)
3 Piece Multi-function Tool and Knife Set (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P8M/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)
Folding Lock Back Utility Knife (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P9G/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)
2 Piece Antique Tool Set (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BK4P82/ref=nosim/002-2647263-5571244?n=228013)

---

Codes:
FREESHEF
FREEKNIF
SHEFELDQ42K5
$48 in savings

---

$12.00 shipped free


You may not be able to get the multi tool set OOS
There are comments that some of the tools have been arriving scratched so Caveat Emptor.  I got the anitque set (above deal) back before Christmas during the combo madness back then and mine were in perfect shape.  Even without the multi tool, the bag alone should be worth your while at $12.  Now only if I had hit that compressor deal.... :(

Act now, and you can get the same Porter-cable Compressor deal I got, but you only have until the end of day tomorrow. Amazon is having a $50 off $250 or more deal again until end of day MAR 6. I only noticed it cuz I was checking out your deals.
Here's the compressor combo: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000DCBKX/qid=1141616553/sr=1-2/ref=sr_1_2/102-6264620-4448910?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=228013

And here's the terms of the $50 off deal:
Special Offer--Through March 6, 2006: Take $50 off your purchase of $250 or more of items in our Tools & Hardware Store. Use promotional code 50OFFMAR at checkout. Offer applies only to purchases of products sold by Amazon.com. Offer must be redeemed at our Web site, http://www.amazon.com, toward the purchase of products sold by Amazon.com. One per customer. This offer can not be combined with other offers on the site.

$289- $50 = $239, no tax, free shipping.

Oh wait! It gets better! Look further down below on the same page as the combo and you see:
Best Value
Buy Porter-Cable CFFN250N Finish & Brad Nailer... and get Porter-Cable BN200A 18 Gauge, 2" Brad Nailer Kit as a gift with purchase!
Porter-Cable CFFN250N Finish & Brad Nailer Combo Kit       Porter-Cable BN200A 18 Gauge, 2" Brad Nailer Kit       Total List Price: $772.00
Buy Together Today: $289.00
You Save: $483.00

I tried to do it with the $50 coupon code and it worked in combination.  You won't see all the discounts applied till the very end before you hit confirm. So you get get the combo with two nailers and get another nailer free for the same price! Sweet! This is better than the deal I got earlier.

You get it all for $239.

That's pretty much been the deal for just over a month...with the exception of a $139 (exact package) a couple weeks ago...that's the one I missed  :(

Someone here suggested the Little Giant type of ladder.  Here (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000VYDHA/ref=pd_hp_mshi1_13/002-2647263-5571244?s=hi&v=glance&n=228013) is the Werner MT-13 for $99 shipped.
Features:
   * Professional grade hinges for scaffolding use and storage case included
   * Adjusts to stepladder heights of 3, 4 and 5 feet
   * Adjusts for extension ladder heights from 7 to 11 feet
   * Heavy Duty Type 1A, 300 pound duty rating
   * Extra wide flared bottom for firm support
Not tall enough for the big jobs, but useful for the just out of reach stuff I suspect.

The first review provides enlightenment on the Little Giant hinge patent for those interested.

I have an 18-20 year old Little Giant (still, I think, made in Utah) quite a bit taller than the knockoffs (17-20ft), that's been through hell including heat from a fire--if not
[size=36]                                        the fire[/size]

Still sturdy.

But good grief, it's heavy.

Woot!  Our Framing nailer and compressor came in today!  Wow, a little bigger than I imagined but I feel like a little kid... :D

Cool, Daddymem - now after you fire it up be sure your fingers are not within bounce distance as you start shooting nails.  Many times the nail gun will fire again on a bounce so always keep that in mind.  Mine has shot two unsuspecting hands --other than that--have fun with it. :)

Hey again;

  Been helping a friend with putting down the decking for his new house and while I can't remember who advised about getting a air nailer, they were absolotely right, it is a necessity in my book now. Makes the job go so much faster. Another fine tip from this forum. I have pondered doing more than just one house in the future due to the ideas and support here, thanks to all.

  Also like the foam block/cement form thing he used for the foundation and walls. A little pricey but quick and good insulating properties. We had several tornado's here in NW Arkansas recently and having the poured reinforced concrete walls really seems pretty to be hell-for-stought and not a bad idea if you can afford it. He is building a huge house and I am getting some of a OJT on my upcoming project and getting alot of long dormant muscles a workout.

Thanks again all
Patty

Sounds great, Patty.  Another Countryplans success story.  

I'm getting ready to do an ICF block basement soon.  My cousin was just here.  He's the one who clues me in on ICF's.  He does a lot of them. He likes Reward Blocks - usable right side up or upside down - don't get ice cubes in the top in cold weather when building the wall - blocking the holes for the next layer - can be cut in half and both halves used rather than throwing away 1/2 in odd wall heights.

Another Amazon Nailer deal:
Porter-Cable CFBN125N 6 Gallon, 2 Nailer Combo Kit (http://tinyurl.com/qzvkp)
PLUS
Porter-Cable BN200A 18 Gauge, 2" Brad Nailer Kit (http://tinyurl.com/lg62b) With Buy Both and Save
Price: $229.99 with free shipping
Minus: 10% with Code: 10PCTSAV (Exp. 3/20)
Total: $207 shipped

East of the Mississippi?
Try an Estwing 22 oz E3-22S (Searh for 166042) (http://www.homedepot.com) for $15.00  Just print out the page, bring to store and ask for them to honor the price, we got two.

Happy framing!

I do like Estwing hammers.

but a short-handled 20 oz is about my limit.

(has anybody tried the titanium jobs--light weight, long handles--how do your elbows feel after using one all day)

Quote

(has anybody tried the titanium jobs--light weight, long handles--how do your elbows feel after using one all day)

   I got one , I tend to use that Stanley glass handle one more , but for pure framing the the Stillito is good.
 
(https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/mar193.jpg%20%20)

 That Stiletto Titanium cost me like $80.00 bucks  :o a few years back they're a little less now , Would I do it again,

 (https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/mar194.jpg%20)

 Ya I'm a sucker for tools, and  hammers might be a weakness :-[

Elbows feel ok  :)some times other stuff hurts :( , generally it all hurts some and I'm  just flat tired by Friday :-X

 PEG :)

(prices are going up again--titanium just took big jump in price I gather)

I had a boss once who liked those Stanley's the best of all.

But I do hear you on buying new tools.

GASOLINE CHAIN SAW.

I've never owned a Poulan product, but know folks who swear by them.  Anyways, Costco now has a 18" Poulan 44cc chain saw for $160.  Positive gear lubrication for the chain/bar.  

Comes with carrying case, gloves, ... even an extra chain.

On another forum, a framer called a chainsaw a framers best friend.  I agree especially since most of my framing is rustic or logs.  I like the electric ones for framing but well worth it to go high quality.  I went through 2 Remingtons in 2 years. Now have a Stihl electric.  For the big jobs I have a Stihl and a Husquavarna - both great saws also.  

I stopped in a Harbor Frieght Retail Store this weekend and decided to buy this. 259.00
The sale price was 169.00. As I was waiting in line to pay, The guy in front of me said to get the 10% off coupon in the advertisement paper near the door. I did as he said and got the 10% discount! What a deal! I have been afraid of buying Chicago Brand Tools but the store said they have a 30 day money back guaranty and chicago tools has a 90 day. I figure if I get that much time out of it I will have saved myself that much money in time alone!



12'' SLIDING COMPOUND LASER GUIDE MITER SAW  


Sliding compound miter saw gives you extra cutting capacity. It is more accurate and convenient than a radial arm saw.
Laser cutting guide for super-accurate cuts
Heavy duty 15 amp motor
Cutting capacity: 12-3/4'' x 4'' @ 90 degrees, 12-3/4'' x 1-15/16'' @ 45 degrees
Makes miter cuts to 45 degrees left and right, bevels to 45 degrees left
Easy-to-read miter scale with nine positive stops left Comes with 100 tooth carbide tipped blade, dust bag, machined aluminum fence, table clamp; 120V, 15 amps, 1800 watts, 60 Hz; Table size: 22-3/4''L x 6-1/2''W; 4100 RPM; Overall dimensions: 34-1/2''L x 22-7/8''W x 26-1/4''H; Tool weight: 44 lbs.


ITEM 91852-2VGA
$259.99

$179.99  
(http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/91800-91899/91852.gif)

I think it will probably give you pretty good service, Jimmy.  I've used a lot of Harbor stuff over the years and most of it does pretty well.  Even DeWalt won't stand up to the abuse I give it sometimes.  I had a Makita die grinder bad from the factory - intermittant - sent to the shop -came back "fixed"  - right - same problem in a couple minutes - took it apart myself and found a friction clamp wire connector under the switch had lost it's grip on the wire - pushed it in - no more problem -- so even name brand tools can have their problems.

Typical day

 (https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/mar2110.jpg%20 )

Ready for just about anything 8-)

PEG

I do appreciate the way you've rounded the corners of your various pieces.  

(edges with sharp right angles are yet another of my pet peeves--barked various portions of my anatomy on plenty of them)

Another caveat about air nailers: When assembling small projects, use clamps, not fingers, or at least keep fingers WELL CLEAR of the nail location! There is sometimes a great temptation to hold a piece of wood in position and nail it with the brad or finish gun. Problem is, a little wild grain can cause the nail to come out the side of the board, or some other unexpected area, right where you have a grip on it!  It's a very rude awakening when it happens, and could be nasty if a nail went to the bone.

Guess what I did--- More barter ---that's what.

I got an older one of these.  Not the old fellow---the Shopsmith. :)

(http://www.shopsmith.com/images/ManatMKV3.gif)

http://www.shopsmith.com/index.htm

I moved a 10' x 16' building back onto its foundation after it was washed about 1/2 block away after a flood last winter.  I got the shopsmith and a few bucks for my helper.

I've always been interested in these but never enough to spend the money to buy one.  Occasionally they will be for sale in the paper.  I also got the optional scroll saw and joiner attachments with it.

From watching a friend make shelves for a store with one years and years ago, it may be best used as a fill-in for things you don't already own.  It looked rather as though changing from one use to another might be cumbersome.

But somebody offered me one--I'd take it.

That's kinda the way I see it.  I have most of the stuff in one form or another but don't have a wood lathe or scroll saw.  They claim most of the changes can be made in a minute or less.  The one I have is fairly ancient although they claim there are still a lot of the old ones in use.

i just found something out at Sears .My store hase a repair center in it never mind you can buy power tools for a good discount (i have never had a problem) but if you buy cordlesss tools ther the battery packs come with a 1 year warranty instead of a 90 if you buy new from the tool dept :)

A couple more Amazon deals (Copy and paste titles into search, I am too lazy to clear out my cookies to link  :P ):
Porter-Cable CFBN125N 6 Gallon, 2 Nailer Combo Kit
List Price:        $454.00
Was:       $255.70
Now:       $178.99 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Details
You Save:       $275.01 (61%)
Stack with (after padding):
Special Offer: April 11, 2006, through April 25, 2006, use promotional code TWNTYFVE2BEN to get $25 off your total purchase of $199 of power tools, pneumatics, or accessories.

And

McGuire Nicholas 22054 54 Pocket Builders Bucket Pro in Red & Black plus McGuire Nicholas 3007 3 Compartment Storage Stacker in Yellow
Total List Price:   $26.98
Buy Together Today: $7.94
You Save: $19.04

And

Porter Cable CFFN250T Finish Nailer, Brad Nailer, Narrow Crown Stapler and Compressor Combo Kit
Price:        $329.00  & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.
Special Offer: Purchase this item from Amazon.com between April 6, 2006, and May 3, 2006, and we will e-mail you a promotional certificate for $30 between June 14, 2006, and July 12, 2006. Offer does not apply to products sold on our site by third-party merchants or through third-party areas such as Amazon.com Marketplace, Auctions, or zShops. One per customer.


A lot of other deals too, just posted a couple useful ones for DIYers:
Inventory Reduction--Save up to an Additional 30%

DEWALT DC926LA Heavy Duty 9.6-Volt Compact 3/8" Adjustable Clutch Drill/Driver Kit with BONUS DW902 9.6-Volt Pivoting Head Flashlight flashlight, charger, two batteries, and carrying case for $76.99 not too shabby either.

One of the nice things about deWalt is that a battery can be put on virtually any deWalt charger, no matter what tool it came with.

Mother's day is soon.  But then comes Father's Day which always features lots and lots of tool specials.

QuoteI stopped in a Harbor Frieght Retail Store this weekend and decided to buy this. 259.00
The sale price was 169.00. As I was waiting in line to pay, The guy in front of me said to get the 10% off coupon in the advertisement paper near the door. I did as he said and got the 10% discount! What a deal! I have been afraid of buying Chicago Brand Tools but the store said they have a 30 day money back guaranty and chicago tools has a 90 day. I figure if I get that much time out of it I will have saved myself that much money in time alone!



12'' SLIDING COMPOUND LASER GUIDE MITER SAW  


ITEM 91852-2VGA
$259.99

$179.99  
(http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/91800-91899/91852.gif)

Jimmy,
How did this work for you? I just got a coupon in the mail for $149 for this saw. Did it hold up?
Thanks,
MarkAndDebbie

It is still going strong! The laser quit working after a month or two. It was my first harbor freight purchase. I prefer dewalt tools, but try to price one of those saws!

QuoteIt is still going strong! The laser quit working after a month or two. It was my first harbor freight purchase. I prefer dewalt tools, but try to price one of those saws!

Thanks. I'm off to get one. I'll let you know how it goes.

I've been pricing too and I've found a 10" DeWalt for 200, no laser however, so not as much fun...

Has anyone used any of the laser measuring tools available now?

Nice to see you , Jimmy.  I bought the Harbor one also.  It is working great - glad to know yours is also.  You put a lot more time on it I'm sure. :)

Just bought a radio that uses the batteries from the Ryobi kit.  Cheap (29 bucks) and it picks up stations too!  No more crappy Big Lots jukeboxes.

I keep adding things to my Ryobi kit - and have been using them hard.  No failures.  I bought the dual charger - running it off of a 350 watt inverter in the truck.  I have 6 batteries so get through most larger tasks pretty well too.  The batteries will not charge right away if they are hot so spares are good.  At only $40 for 2 you can afford to have quite a few.  I really like the 4 1/2 inch angle grinder for steel work and just bought the 90 degree close quarter drill.  I also have the hammer drill/clutch drill.  It drills concrete great in the smaller sizes.

The impact driver is great for wood screws and small lags - to 3/8" dia.  

I got the cigarette lighter charger too.  I was wondering how the grinder worked.  didn't have luck with the sawzall, ran the battery down too fast.  impact and drill are awesome (and I have used DeWalt, Makita, Panasonic, and Millwakee), dust buster is ok, I wonder about the caulking gun, and the stapler.  Do your musical interests a favor though and get the radio.  Some of the other builders I've worked with have given me a hard time about the Ryobi tools saying that they are second rate and stuff.  They may not be quite as good as some of the other brands in certain places, but then I have been able to amass more job specific tools for less than them.  I have no complaints.  I wonder how the cordless laminate trimmer is.

The grinder works great - yes - you need extra batteries with it also but really handy where you have to string power all over the job otherwise.

I was using the hammer drill today drilling holes in plywood forms - out of position and had to be careful not to let it twist my wrist.  It's pretty tough.  The vacuum is a bit weak but came wiht the set.  4 times the batteries for the price.  All of my Dewalt batteries are/were junk -- at $98 each I'll forget buying more.  Tried to buy them on a Lowes special - about half price, but it was a bait and switch -- which is a too common occurrence at Lowes.  Had a similar experience on roofing materials or OSB - -- Oh we don't price match on that.  I gave them the choice of pulling the guaranteed lowest prices signs down all over the store or giving me the guaranteed lowest price by matching Homer, as I had driven to their store instead of Homer because of the price matching and wasn't about to let them get away with false advertising at my expense.

did they match?

Yes -- they got a manager over there -- when I explained that their signs were false advertising in front of the other listening customers, they gave me the price match rather than take their signs down.

This Lazer and pole setup is nice for inside work and some limit outdoor use .

 (https://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b299/PEG688/June2nd13-1.jpg)

You slide it to where you want the line to be , no correcting adjusting from a base line , just put er where ya want er.  ;)

Does a horz. and a vertical line BTW.

I was noticing that PEG - looks expensive but like a good tool.  Impressive.

Quote

- looks expensive but like a good tool.  

Impressive.

Depends on your opinion of expensive  ;D Time is money if it speeds up accurate work it's cheap in the long run. maybe not DIY tool but hey I like to gloat now and again ;D

Most time s no one even notices , or if they do they don't say nuttin  ::) ;D

Lazer just under $200.00 , pole setup just under $200.00, as a set in a case which is large but I think the case in this case is useful , It protect the tools and keeps eventhing you need together ina easy to track / carry case . Some of the reviews complain about the case , but I like it. So $398.00  no shipping no tax direct from Lazer Jamb up in B-ham,  Wa.  near  Sassy's old stompin grounds.

And yes it is impressive  8-) Clients and crew OOOH and Ahhh over it  ;D

Quoteor if they do they don't say nuttin

That'd be me -  :-/

Unfortunately sometimes I get in late - especially lately, and just have to speed through the forums to make sure your buddy --  the one with the big tool - hasn't posted a picture of himself again, so I don't always get to acknowledge the cool things going on here or that others have taken the time to post.... but don't let that stop you -- we all appreciate it. :)

Besides -- I rattle on too much anyway. ;D

Quote

Sometimes I wonder  ::)

And no way dude , you keep it moving when it seems totally dead 8-) On top of keepin it clean and in line , well mostly eh , we do drift a lil  :-[ ok sometimes A LOT  ;D But eh It's all good , no one gets hurt  ;)

Quote

And no way dude , you keep it moving when it seems totally dead 8-)

Now you sound like my wife. :-/

Hey - you're right.  It's all good. ;D

Quote
Thanks. I'm off to get one. I'll let you know how it goes.

Worked great for a while. Then the angle adjuster broke (on 90 luckily).

This may be the only time I have ever bought an extended warranty. But when I hefted it, I thought - maybe I should? It worked out this time. I have to say the exchange was painless. They didn't even ask what was broken - just asked if I wanted a new one, credit, or cash. I got a new one.

Great to have a no hassle warranty.  My saw has had no problems yet but I just use it occasionally.