Tools under $20, Write for FHB.
Hey, where ya’ll been?
Okay tool junkies, here is your chance to contribute something to your favorite magazine (That’s Fine Homebuilding, in case you were on the fence), and maybe even make a couple extra bucks.
Tentatively titled “The Best Tools for under $20,” I’m putting together an article that is a collection of un-common or inexpensive tools that are invaluable on the job-site or around the house.
For example: My wife is a painter. Though she does mostly specialty and decorative work (glazes, textured finishes, antiquing, and lots of milk paint), her tool box is full of things you’d expect a painter to carry: brushes, roller arms & extensions, caulk gun, palm sander, putty knife, utility knife, screw drivers, etc. But the first thing she packs for every job is a hand-held electric kitchen mixer, and she uses it nearly every day to mix colors, pigments, glazes, and such. It is fast, mixes well and the metal whisks are easy to clean. She says it was the best $15.99 investment she’s made as it helps her work better and faster.
On the other hand, maybe the tool isn’t uncommon. I probably won’t include hammers, but you never know. Tell me what you like about your hammer and all the different jobs you use it for, and it may just make the cut. I am looking for a collection of inexpensive tools, uncommon or ordinary, that you just can’t, or wouldn’t want to live without.
If you have a tool in mind, drop me a line. Tell me what the tool is and why you think it should be included in the article. But be prepared, if we like your idea we might just ask you to write more about it, publish it in the magazine, and pay you for your effort.
Feel free to email or call me anytime.
Brian Pontolilo, FHB editorial
800-926-8776 ext. 3871
Don’t worry, FHB is still dedicated to providing our readers with up to date reviews of common construction tool. Off the top of my head I know we are working on comprehensive reviews of compound miter saws and random orbital sanders.
It’s my job!
Replies
I saw an a/c guy using a cordless electric kitchen knife to cut duct board the other day. Seemed to work well.
Brian,
There was an extensive thread on this (help me out here guys) before the change to Prospero. I belive it ran somewhere up around 300 posts. Great reading....
I know some posts were put into the new archives and some were not. It may be worth some cruising in the advanced search. I think, maybe, the thread was started by Andy Engel. Maybe he's got it saved somewhere.
Maybe it should be a regular feature each issue. Cool tool under $20....
Good luck.
-Kit
I think most of these guys carry a bevel in there tool belt. I like to collect the old all metal bevels from Stanley or Craftsman. Better known as the Sliding "T" Bevel these beauties have the tightening screw on the bottom of the handle instead of on the side like the ones you buy today.
These all run about $15.00 at most antique stores.
They are used to copy and transfer angles of material to be cut.
"Rather be a hammer than a nail"
Bob
I got to find me one of those. The wing nut's always on the wrong side when I lay it in the miter saw to find out the angle.
greencu
Garrett Wade has a Japanese Version, I got one and it works fine, under $20
Dont know the web site.
Doug
Take a look at the craftsman model. the locking "nut" is flat and stays out the way.
Theree's a nail puller I like, especially in renovation work where taking stuff down happens frequently. It's about 6" long, has a head at one end that you drive into the wood and under the nail head, then pry it out. Doesn't work too well at pulliong the nail all the way out because of its size, but it gets the head high enough for a hammer or pry bar.
Do it right, or do it twice.
Rocket Anchor
Mini flatbar (4 or 5")
PeeVee wall bottom plate puller
ViceGrips for pulling nails out of a finger or arm
Most of my favorite tools/devices are home made gadgets - but I guess that's not what you are looking for.
MG
Fence pliers. Maybe they're $21, I don't know. That pincer tip will rip out nails and staples with ease. You've got pliers, you've got a spike to get under things with, a prybar, a halfway decent hammer in a pinch, and darned if they aren't the perfect thing for yanking out gutter spikes. I use the heck out of them, but maybe thats just the hick in me showing through.
"The child is grown / The dream is gone / And I have become / Comfortably numb " lyrics by Roger Waters
oh yeah, vote #2. Its silly but I love em. I have a bucket that most of the paint brushes go in, and I always keep steel shish kebab skewers in there. Thats just where they fit. Try to figure out what the RO is without taking the casing off the window. The flat skewer slips in behind the casing and probes with ease. Want to put a light in? Punch it through the drywall - the little pointed tip will drill through with a couple of turns, then it sticks up above the insulation so when you're in the attic you can see how close you are to a joist and whether or not you need to move a few inches. Those were under $5 at Shopko. Need to probe the sill to see how much rot there really is? They'll go all the way into the basement and again, you can see where you came through. Just handy little buggers.
"The child is grown / The dream is gone / And I have become / Comfortably numb " lyrics by Roger Waters
hey brian
not much in my tool box under 20 bucks but i'lhavesome ideas soon
sorry about the lousy typing im at that job 4 hours from home on HIS laptop in the daRK oops
steve
Hey guys
This sounds like a fun post. I can't think of any really usefull tools for under 20. Except for this angle finder, it has a big dial that tells you what angle you have, works well when cutting the siding up an eve, get it right the first time, less time on a ladder.
How about a 12 or 18 in F-clamp. I dont have one (yet!) But they come in handy.
Johnson mark and mount is a really sharp new tool that is very efficient you match up the holes for anything your going to hang then transfer the holes on the wall after you level it with vials built in.
Craftsman framing hammer you can abuse it to destruction then take it back and get a new one.
Craftsman tape measurers for the same reason.
Axe and torch recip blades dust all the others out there.
Sharkgrip 8" prybar and nailpuller I keep 2 of these slid inside my bags belt loop and use them in tandem to remove rotted fascia.
I got a douglas hammer clearanced for 19.95 at lowes and I love it.
Chisels with rasp built in !
Magnet broom with wheels got at lowes under 20$ I have to leave it at job sites so owners can triple check for nails they love it.
ANDYSZ2
I MAY DISAGREE WITH WHAT YOUR SAYING BUT I WILL DEFEND TO THE DEATH YOUR RIGHT TO SAY IT.
I have not tried the mark & mount, but I saw it at the store and also thought it would be a neat gadget. Can I borrow yours for a few days?
Do you have any problems with the chisel-rasp scraping your knuckes? Looks like it could be difficult to hold.
Do it right, or do it twice.
12"piece of #4 rebar...free...used to drive nails where hammer won't fit, breaks tile, packs drypack, aligns bolt holes, used as drift punch. Once you've got one, you'll be amazed how often you use it.
6" Stanley flat bar with bevels sharpened, also sharpened bevels on regular flat bar, gets under easier and makes servicable chisels for rough work. While you're sharpening odd things, also sharpen claws on hammer.
1/2 round wood rasp, removes wood and makes a good D/W sureform substitute.
12" sawzall blade with duct tape handle makes a keyhole saw or a drywall saw that fits in the bags, lite weight too.
Bullnose cutters, pulls any nail with or w/o head, cuts anything. Cut the point off a nail, makes a split free nail, most common use for me.
4" crescent, opens to 9/16", I've got one on all 3 sets of keys, a real lifesaver.
SamT
> 12"piece of #4 rebar...free...used to drive nails where hammer won't fit, ....
I took three pieces, 6", 12" and 18", squared off one end and then drilled a recess in the end 3/8" diameter by 1/8" deep. These are strictly for driving nails in tough to reach locations where even the palm nailer won't fit.
-- J.S.
ELCID
I live in Memphis so if you want to borrow it come on by and the rasp is round on one side and flat on the other with a regular chisel handle above it.
ANDYSZ2I MAY DISAGREE WITH WHAT YOUR SAYING BUT I WILL DEFEND TO THE DEATH YOUR RIGHT TO SAY IT.
My most indispensable tool under $20 is my lunch box.
After that, it is a tossup between my utility knife and my trisquare
Excellence is its own reward!
I've got three that head the list:
1. 8" Richard utility bar, about $7.95, has a 90-degree scraper/prying end with a thick beveled edge and the other end tapers to nothing for slipping in behind moulding or anything else you want to lift off gently.
2. Richard painter's 5-in-one tool. About $9.00, I think. I use it for pulling roofing staples, scraping crud off stuff, reefing trim into place, and, of course, cleaning rollers, knifing drain slits into paint cans, and all that painting stuff it was actually designed for...
3. Picquick Six-Pack multi-bit screwdriver. I hate multi-bit screwdrivers; they never work the way they're advertised to. But this one does. The bits are stored in holes that run the length of the handle; you use one bit to push out another. They are held into the shaft by a spring-clip and small BB. (The stubby version uses a magnet.) It's got a good shape and weight to the handle, and it uses standard ¼" hex bits so any of the gazillion weird bits in the bottom of the tool box will fit it--and the six 2" bits that came with it will fit my Dewalt gyprock gun when the need arises (as it often does). About $17.95.
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
I've started using empty prescription bottles to hold my screwdriver bitsbobl Volo Non Voleo
I use Panther Mignon cigar boxes, the little metal ones about the size of a business card and 1" deep. But they don't make them (the metal boxes) anymore, so now I have to buy Fisherman's Friend sore throat lozenges even when I'm not sick. They come in a similar sized box--at three times the price of the lozenges in a paper sack....
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
Now THIS is interesting.
"Honey? Can you grab me two Proxac 20mgs and an Ativan? While you're down there, grab the bottle of Neurontins...those will probably fit. And some aspirin...the real kind...."
:)
here's a selection that i dug out of my tool box
from the left:
little mechanics mirror on a extendable pole, i also have a magnet thing like it that has come in handy several times.
voltage detector thing that beeps when its put near a live wire, very handy i always double check to make sure i've switched the correct circuit off.
vernier calipers; I never thought I'd use them but I find myself using them at least a couple of times a day
and last a set of sealant tooling blocks, really handy you can get a really good finish with them and a pump up sprayer of soapy water, there are various profiles for pretty much any situation.
and last but not least although its above the pricelimit; I don't know where I'd be without my leatherman type thing.
sooo many times I've been up a ladder or scaffolding and needed a pair of pliers or screwdriver etc...
aleks
Where did you get the sealant tooling blocks? I assume they work well on caulk, which is the less expensive version of sealant :)
Do it right, or do it twice.
Kostello, I am curious about the tooling blocks as well. Who manufactures them? I do a lot of cosmetic caulk joints and would like to try new/better methods of tooling them.
Thanks in advance,
Karl
i don't know where in the USA you could get these.
i saw them in a magazine and ordered them straight away.
the people i got them from are at: http://www.bedec.co.uk/prod11.htm
they are good though; it does take abit of practise but its nice to be able to have a flat bead of silicone not one that is the same shape as you finger.
Those are nice but if they can't be found in the USA a viable alternative might be cutting profiles out of Bondo boards or expired credit cards.Kevin Halliburton
"I believe that architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity." - I.M. Pei -
Old guitar picks work for this too!
Hmm. I could also use the corner of an expired credit card as a guitar pick, come to think about it....
they aren't made of hard plastic.
its more like a hard rubber something similar to a good quality cooking spatula.
aleks
My favorite tool under 20 bucks… Kline 10-in-one tool. Two sizes each of Philips and flat, two sizes Torx, two sizes square drive, 5/16" and 1/4" hex.
I use and abuse this tool so much one doesn’t last quite a year.
Most invaluable tool under 20 bucks… Tape measure! If you took my tape and didn’t provide a way for me to replace it… I’d have to stay home.
Scott R.
Edited 10/3/2003 5:30:07 PM ET by Scott R.
Hate to admit I bought another gimmicky cheap plastic tool to test but was glad I did.
I've got these long braided 12g extension cords with thick insulation I haul around and sometimes it gets rough.
When I saw this in a moment of mad inspiration I bit.
They work pretty slick.
yeah they do, I bought one to try it out, then went back and bought about a half a dozen, they work pretty well, and a lot better then having your cords not up
I got a couple for my compressor hoses. In a pinch, could double as hand-cuffs if you link 2 together...
Jen
In a pinch, could double as hand-cuffs if you link 2 together...
and just how exactly did you find this one out??
WE HAVE GOT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS!!!!
Who ever invented work didn't know how to fish....
I bought a Stanley ratchet screwdriver. has 6 bits in it that could be selected as required. I admit to being pretty doubtful as to how lon the thing would last. My plumber has one that he worked really hard and had pronounced it a "goodie", so I figgured it had to be OK. Is one of those tools I wish I had bought long ago.
Mini flat bar. Cant get them here so a mate in the US sent one over. How I ever got along for so many years without one beats me.........
Wood Hoon
Get your mind out of the gutter, son...
(rez, don't get your mind out of the gutter, you might fall off the roof)
I was merely thinking that in the event of a home invasion robbery, like they have out here in CA, if you could manage to knock the perpetrator out, you could cuff him until the authorities arrive... ;)
Jen
My mind is in the gutter?
I was simply wondering if you had to arrest or detain someone, YOUR mind seemed to jump to a sexual innuendo pretty darn quick though
;)
Jen-
now ya got me wonderin' about those compressor hoses.
heh heh
Sorry, I need to get MY mind out of the gutter...yeah, arrest or detain, that's it...;)
Jen
Film at 11????
Who ever invented work didn't know how to fish....
Just stalling until I can think of an unusual/creative use for a tool/implement under $20....
Jen
Hi Jen,
I bought a couple pair of the hancuffs.
I was wondering, should they be padded with something and just how tight is to tight?View Image
Got busy last month with some remodels, etc so just now making a reply to your post about the handcuffs.
Yeah, if you really love your cords and hoses, be gentle with them and use a little padding. ;)
Jen
A Pencil!!??
You just learn to write?
:)Mr T
Do not try this at home!
I am an Experienced Professional!
I knew that was going to happen.
Pencil was just for size comparison.
And for your information I did learn to write.
Let's see, the year was 1972 and highschool was in full swing,
not being able to read was beginning to weigh heavily upon my social life, the football diagrams were confusing me and I realized I needed some help. A tutor was secured and Miss Theo became my...
Kostello has a goo point...the Leatherman type tools are very handy. I can see where a review would be usefull, but it might look too much like a yuppie thing.
Do it right, or do it twice.
Let's see. what's in here under $20.
Tweezers, check. (with rubber handles where your fingers go) Dental mirror from drug store for looking around corners. Toothpicks to get screw holes tight again. Duct tape, yep. (Temporary...I'm not into long term DT fixes.) A small piece of pipe just the right diameter for bending rebar. A magnet for picking up nails. Some makeup brushes...good size for taking dirt and shavings out of tight spots. One of those handy clamps on a long wire that is supposed to be used for lighting gas stoves from short matches...those clamps are great. Black binder clips? Also great clamps. A Roughneck 7" utility bar. String (makes a nice plumb line). Black thread, one spool. An old spoon and butter knife. Post-It notes for one you dismantle things...you label 'em. Or use medical tape. Masking tape or anything stronger sticks too much. An old hammer where the handle unscrews and flips around and can be 4 sizes of a Phillips Head screwdriver. Just put it all together when done. (I love that thing) Here's the newer version. And half of a raw potato! For unscrewing broken lightbulbs from the socket.
We've got the serious stuff too...but haven't been able to part with this cool box of stuff.
These rock too...but I don't know prices.
Speaking of tweezers - I used to think that Bill's Sliver Grippers were the best . I still think they grip the best of any I have tried, but gripping doesn't do much good if you can't see the blasted thing. Since my eyeballs stopped focusing on anything under 3 feet distant, I find my magnifying tweezers are an absolute necessity - at least until I grow a third hand to hold the magnifying glass. My super cheap set does a pretty good job but magnifier could be more adjustable. There are lots advertised on the Web ranging from a couple of bucks to $32. Anyone have a recommendation for a good but moderately priced magnified gripper?
Locking hemostats - I find the 8" with serrated jaws, 1 each of straight and curved jaws, amazingly handy..
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
One of my favorites is a small diamond blade hand grout saw. I use it to cut out for electrical boxes in old lath and plaster. It makes nice square cuts quicker easier and cleaner than a zip router. For larger plaster cuts, I use the diamond blade in a little makita saw, and finish up the ends with this grout saw.
-- J.S.
I can't believe that no one has listed duct tape or bailing wire! My personal favorite is the carpenters pensil sharpener, about $3.95. I also keep a really small arkansas stone to extend the life of the ol utility knife. Guess I'm a cheap bast##d.
That stuff isn't just handy... They are requirements....
Who ever invented work didn't know how to fish....
How about one of the "plastic, adjustable drafting triangles" The one I like is made by "Staedtler". These things are amazingly accurate for setting bevel or mitre angles on table saw or mitre/compound saws, or even just doing any other type of layout.
As the old saying goes, "try it, you'll like it"
Tweezers! for those annoying little splinters. "One measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions"
I definitely throw a vote in for the bevel.
A "bitey" item I keep in the tool belt -- a set of scribes. I do all remodeling, so almost nothing is straight, plumb or level. They are great for fitting the obvious like filler strips on cabinets and counter tops. I also use them sometimes to better fit a piece of drywall, and of course to draw an occassional circle. They also have that spare pencil for when I forget to put the other behind my ear.
While we're at it, can you ever have enough pencils?
Dave Otto -- Otto Construction -- PA
I like the carpenter's pencil sharpener McFeely's sells:
http://store.yahoo.com/squaredrive/kse-0201.html
.
It's MUCH better than the ones that round them off:
http://store.yahoo.com/squaredrive/ps-1200.html
Who were the beta testers for Preparations A through G?
My absolute favorite find of the last couple years is the Estwing Roofing Bar. I cannot find a pic on their website, but it is basically the same as the Molding Puller. It is better than a regular pry bar because the wide flair at the wide end is bent more, so it comes off the surface about 2". Enough to pull a nail in one movement in most cases. Plus the other end has the best nail pulling ability, and a flat striking surface on the other end to double as a hammer in a pinch. I am surprised how much I use that feature when on a roof or up on a ladder.
Cledwyn,
I was gonna suggest the Estwing roofers bar----but you beat me to it!
As much as I like it there is room for improvement-----the flared flat bar end could use a deeper,wider notch---and it should be more of an angle and less of a slight curve. Also---there is to much spring in the bar---it should be stiffer.
the cats paw /hammer end is great.
It could be improved---but it is still better than anything "comparable" that I have tried.
Hi Shazlett
Very similar to the cats paw at http://www.leevalley.com
Mac
My vote is for the good old 5-gallon bucket. It has tons of uses, and not just for carrying things or mixing small batches of mortar or concrete. Turned upside down, they make a quick, impromptu step-stool, or a pair will substitute for a set of saw horses for long boards - they're a lot easier to carry around too. They also make a decent chair so Piffin can eat his lunch in comfort. Use four, a couple 2X's and a sheet of plywood and you have some decent low scaffolding for working around an 8' ceiling (at least if you're my height). If you're working up high and need a lot of extra tools or "stuff," you can drive a big nail into a rafter or joist and have a bucket hanging there with you (just make sure it's not TOO heavy and the handle is in good condition.) Or, you can tie a rope to one and use it to haul small items from ground-level to the roof - much better than going down and up a ladder. Though I've never done it, I knew one guy who used a couple to form footings for a deck. If you have some with lids, they're great for temporary storage on a worksite - put your stuff in there on rainy days so you don't have to trudge back to your truck to get something. A landscaper I know uses them to move and store transplanted plants with fragile root-balls. I even saw one used as a helmet for a robot costume on Halloween! I've used one for a toilet on several river-rafting trips I've gone on where packing out solid waste is required - just take some lime and an old toilet seat. I guess this might work on a jobsite too, if desperate.
Oh, yeah, I even heard that painters and plasterers uses them all the time too! :)
Andy
Edited 10/2/2003 11:09:23 AM ET by Andy
Edited 10/2/2003 11:12:40 AM ET by Andy
And then there is a whole list of bucket accesories that come in under the $20 mark.Kevin Halliburton
"I believe that architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity." - I.M. Pei -
I'll second the 5-gal bucket but for sitting comfort, I have the seat cover from buckeetboss. best part is that they are free.
Speaking of free, I always hit rummage sales just before closing when they are giving stuff away. I pick up the tupperware type containers for paint or parts, and cookie trays. When I need to dis-assemble a tool, I don't want the part rolling off into the sawdust so they land in a cookie tray.
I guerss it is an accessory to the 5-Gal bucket because when I am looking for a sumthinorother that I'm sure is in therre someplace, I can upend it into the cookie tray and not lose anything, then sort into another cookie tray..
Excellence is its own reward!
A large pair if Vice Grips (10R), if knurled (tighten grip) knob is replaced with an eyebolt, then this pair of grips can be used to hoist almost anything if a rope is tied thru the eye. Have watched large sheet n' duct as well as other slim gauge (up to jaw opening size) clamped and hoisted. Caution : Don't permit anyone to stand below this rig. It seems to always work, but no sense in tasking our luck. Works for siding also.
Right on Warren,
Even better version of Vise Grips is their 12 LC which is a large round clamp. When I am 24 feet in the air on a scissor lift and need to cut some all-thread, I use a pair of these to hold it steady while it is delengthenized.
Even though vices as such are illegal on the jobsite, I think these can squeak in despite the name.
~Peter
The count down contines,,, 491 days.View Image
Mr. Blue!!
Mr Blue is a prybar wonder. It has a Catspaw like head on one end and is sorta like a shoehorn on the other end.
It is indispensable on the job and has a million and three uses. We call him Mr. Blue, well, because he is blue.
He always stays in my tool pouch, and if he is not there when I need him for support, some heads are gonna roll!!!
My "wonder bar" is also a great tool........And, my Swanson speed square..
Try a set of childrens building blocks! They make great spacers when you are setting a door in place or trying to set moulding up off the floor for later carpet installation!
I bought a set for my grandson and one accidently got in my tool box, of course he goes to work with me so that might explain it and I grabbed it when reaching for a spacer one day and it worked so well that I went and bought a whole set. We also use em for holding cabinet doors and such off the floor when painting them! Paid 5 bucks for them and they have paid off many times! Now if I could figure out how to keep the kid from thinkin my tools are toys!
Theresa-Honeydoos
Another vote here for the 6 in 1 painter's tool.
Mostly I use it for a chisel, but it comes in handy for removing trim, prying in tight spots, and scraping glue, joint compound, etc. The one I own now has a metal end that can be struck with a hammer, but the end unscrews and I can screw in a broom handle for scraping the floor.
Tool #2: A nail punch with 2 heads, Japanese make, the end of the punch that you usually strike with the hammer has a mini-punch perpendicular to the handle, about 1" long. So usually I'll use it the normal direction, but for that stubborn finish nail that just won't set, a few strikes on the stubby head usually does the trick.
1) Stanley Multi-Saw:
Nice padded grip, holds hacksaw blades AND recip saw blades. Use it everyday.
http://www.stanleytools.com/catalog_images/web_detail/20220_72dpi_webmax.jpg
2) Toilet wax ring:
Just the right material for lubing screw threads driven into wood. Unbelievable difference, particularly for long screws or lags. Batteries and bits last longer. Easy removal for temporary placement. Screw heads tend to be left undamaged, so screws can be reused. Super cheap, and one ring will last a very long time.
3) Speed square:
I must have a dozen of them in at least three sizes. Marks the cut, AND acts as the tool guide. What did I do without them?
4) Disposable Neoprene gloves:
About $10 per box of 100.
These things are great. Nothing like the old latex or plastic ones. Amazingly puncture-resistant for their thickness. Great grip. Great dexterity. Allows you some sense of 'feel' through the glove, where you would have shed your gloves given another type. Can be cleaned on-the-fly with solvent whenever they get dirty or greasy.
5) Ski goggles:
I bought a bunch of these for under $20, though they can certainly fetch more.
Super comfortable. Filters most dust, but vents and double lens prevent fog. Protects on sides. Nothing better for dusty work like cutting overhead, insulation work, ripping out plaster, or mixing cement. Comes in clear(for night skiing), or the normal shaded. Other than comfort, the biggest adantage over other goggles is fog resistance, particularly for respirator work in tight spaces. Certainly do not meet OSHA standards, but is it really safer to work blinded by dust (with open goggles) or those fogged (and approved) sealed goggles? Obviously great for outside work in the cold. Warmer than sunglasses.
how about an ordinary shim and a pencil for scribing especially for counte tops, total cost? maybe 15 cents?
steve
caulking is not a piece of trim
Slip joint pliers (I think that's what they are called). I have a 12" pair and a small (6") pair. They are great for pulling nails, and removing screws that have the head stripped out. Sometimes as a quick handy vice.
There must be other things I use them for (besides the obvious plumbing applications), but I can't think of them.
Rich Beckman
Another day, another tool.
Clear Hockey Shin-pad tape.....Ever since I started using this stuff i can't get by without it. This stuff acts as a great clamp for small items around the job, eg. baseboard returns, casing corners...etc....until glue dries, or for tying material together in the back of the truck. I learned it from my kitchen guy, he was using it to hold glued up corners of maple crown molding together and trim peices on the corners of cabinets stuck on with some dabs of silicone. Try it, the stuff is super stretchy and sticky....note: this is not the clothed backed tape but the clear, vinyl tape.
http://www.americanhockeycenter.com/images/1x36_clear.jpg
Edited 10/11/2003 6:27:48 PM ET by SledBC
Edited 10/11/2003 6:28:28 PM ET by SledBC
Edited 10/11/2003 6:28:53 PM ET by SledBC
How 'bout a used piece of gutter? There must be dozens of things you can do with that!.
Excellence is its own reward!
Gutter? Ok, name three things...Do it right, or do it twice.
OK, I'm game.
A safety device for preventing fall injuries to;
One - Rabbits
Two - Cows
Three - Beagles
LOL.
Excellence is its own reward!
i made a harling towel out of a piece of 6" 1/2 round gutter once.
was just the job for the small afrea i was doing
aleks
harling towel I have no idea what that is.Do it right, or do it twice.
Cheapie spring clamps. Good third hand.
Who ever invented work didn't know how to fish....
its for applying roughcast render to walls
see http://www.lime.org.uk/services/utools.html#harl
aleks
Kostello, I read the description there & still have no clue as to what it is.
Harling Trowel
This may be used for harling wet dashes onto base coats, typically on external renders, producing a coating of a much larger surface area than smooth render to facilitate drying and dispersal of rain. Often known as a dashing trowel because it is used for applying pebbles to create the modern 'pebble dash' finish.
What means this in ENGLISH?
Joe H
that's in English, u want it in American.bobl Volo, non valeo
wet dash is where stucco is thrown at the wall as a wet mixture ( it sometimes has small 3/8" stones in it ) the harling trowel is used to scoop up the stucco mixture and throw it at the wall with a flick of the wrist.
there is as with most things a knack to it the most difficult thing is getting an even layer on the wall.
i hope this helps
Shouldn't that be called a hurling trowel ?
Live, Love, Forgive and Forget
quittintime
i didn't make the name up.!!
it really is a harling trowel
LOL
I didn't think you did.
I just thought it would be more aptly named a hurling trowel.
: )
Live, Love, Forgive and Forget
quittintime
i agree especially as the effect it gives is very similar to what you would achieve by 'hurling' against the wall
That would REALLY be "Hurling Chunks"!!Mr T
Do not try this at home!
I am an Experienced Professional!
"How 'bout a used piece of gutter? There must be dozens of things you can do with that!"
One use is to lean it against the antenna on my radio to improve the reception.
Rich Beckman
Another day, another tool.
Brian, sorry to come to the discussion late, I was outta town. The discussion seems to be straying a bit, though...
I agree with SamT: rebar makes a great punch. There's a bunch of job-site-built jigs, tools, and templates in existence. A shoot board is the only way to trim a door. But I don't think you were looking for these.
I agree with many here about prybars, but I don't think this is what you were looking for. I've got and love Dino's Richard mini-bar, I've got and love the Estwing Japanese-made, and I've got two others that you couldn't "pry" from my cold dead fingers. But really, these aren't unusual tools. Being without a prybar, hammer, OLFA knife, nail set, handsaw (love those Japanese pullsaws!), quick square, tape measure, pencil, multi-driver (MUST be ratcheting), chisel, pliers (46 different kinds, it seems), clamps (spring, C, bar, quick-bar), gloves, 5-in-1 painter's tool, hearing and eye protection: just ain't possible. So:
Popsicle sticks or tongue depressors: glue spreaders, shims, etc. etc.
Food "ziploc" baggies, assorted sizes: Everything goes in them. Remove cabinet hinges, each gets it's own labelled bag. Tools go in them. Dead mice go in them (working on a cottage right now).
Disposable food containers: Nails, screws, bigger & heavier parts than should go in a baggie.
Plastic tote tray (or 5 gallon bucket): Your tool belt can't hold everything (eg. drill, medium length prybar) while you work on something. The only problem with the bucket is small stuff is hard to find. I prefer the shallow tote trays.
Plastic divided trays with lids: I find the best ones near the fishing lures at my hardware store. Nails & screws, drill bits, safety kit (ear plugs, bandages, safety glasses, etc). I have a heavy duty one that holds (and keeps organized) copper plumbing connectors. If I could find one about the size of a large suitcase, I'd keep 1.5" ABS fittings in it. And another one for electrical boxes/switches/etc.
Rubbermaid containers. 'Nuff said.
Pocket diamond hones: A sharp chisel or OLFA knife is a useful chisel/knife.
Quick change drill adapter & bits: Who cares whether a drill has a one-handed chuck? My goal is to never have to adjust a chuck again. Not completely successful yet...
Finally, my favourite: a trigger-start propane torch. Not just a great time saver, but a huge safety innovation. Gotta set the (non-trigger) torch down while I juggle plumbing bits. Oops, knocked it over with my knee. Oops, set the cabinet on fire. With a trigger-start, the torch is only on when you absolutely want it on, without also finding/juggling a flint.
Regards,
Tim Ruttan
Good list - well organized too. :-)>Kevin Halliburton
"I believe that architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity." - I.M. Pei -
Thanks, Kevin. I like to write good. :-)
One more tool for the list: an outlet/GFI tester. Wired up the cottage, all the plugs were wired correctly, but had a faulty brand new kitchen countertop GFI plug. Plug wouldn't trip correctly, made the neutral hot!? Would never have known otherwise until a toaster was dropped in the sink.
Regards,
Tim Ruttan
along the kebab line - an ice pick. No end of uses. And lipstick to do blind markings with. And good shears can sometimes be easier than a utility knife
1.) Bullnosed pliers - invaluable for pulling things
2.) Rafter square - tremendous for stair jack layout as well
3.) 2 1/2" long by 1 1/4" wide block plane. I call this one "mini-me" and can't even begin to list the times it's saved me from having to climb back down from somewhere to get a perfect fit.
4.) speaker magnet on a string
5.) 12" quick-grip clamps. I've used these things to replace a helper several times.
6.) Due to heavy rains here in the northwest, we've adapted 5 gallon buckets to power stations. Drill 4" (holesaw) holes on opposite sides of the bucket about halfway up. Fill the bottom with sand or drainrock. Run a four-way into the bucket through one hole, and all your cords plugged into the four-way out the other hole. Don't forget to put the lid on the bucket and your GFI's shouldn't be popping all day long.
Bamboo skewer. Cheapest thing in the bucket but works wonders for tooling caulking - pointy end for around intricate curves, square cut end for just about any square corner (leaves a nice clean line next to the molding, which can be cleaned off easily).
you guys quit posting
how am i suppose to come up with ideas for Santa if you don't post.
BTW last time there was a thread like this it was tools under $10.bobl Volo, non valeo
Baseball bat. Good for drywall demo, employee discipline and motivating the subs.
Brian,
OK, try not to laugh but,... A hot glue gun. For putting up small mouldings, making (strip) templates, etc, etc, they are invaluable.
Jon
along with hot glue guns I would suggest some crazy glue, good for the small pieces that you cant nail, get the gel kind, works good on wood.
Not really a tool but...
DOUG,
Good point about the "krazy glue." Let me add that the super thin type cynoacrylate is invaluable for lots of stuff and is stronger and sets up quicker than the gel.
One use is to repair cracked or damaged wood. Simply clamp together, apply the glue, (the capillary action will carry it all the way through the break/damaged area) 30 minutes later, unclamp, done and stronger than before.
Jon
Just wanted to mention to moisten the crack with water before CA is applied.
Also, another use is to seal cuts or peeled back skin (minor injuies, not amputated appendages) Read about 10 yrs. ago that ER's were starting to use CyanoAcrylic glue for this purpose. Since then they have come up with a specially approved differently named substitute but it's essentially the same stuff. Since reading about it many years ago I've been using it for that purpose with execelent results. If you think about it what does it do better than glue fingers together?
Dan019
"Just wanted to mention to moisten the crack with water before CA is applied."
Dan,
Why would you want to do that? Thin CA is significantly thinner than water, and would block its path and reduce penetration into the damaged area.
Also, you say...
"another use is to seal cuts or peeled back skin (minor injuries, not amputated appendages)"
This is true, but ONLY if applied to "stitch" together the thin, dead epidermis. You absolutely don't want any getting into the cut itself.
Jon
Hi Jon,
I’ve done it both ways. Not misting the crack/check is definitely quicker but I’ve had instances were the glue wouldn’t set properly if I didn’t moisten the joint first.(even after clamping) . I’m talking about kiln dried hardwood though, not 1x pine bought at a big box or lumberyard. Maybe my comment would have been more appropriate at Knots.
This is true, but ONLY if applied to "stitch" together the thin, dead epidermis. You absolutely don't want any getting into the cut itself.
Yea, I guess I wasn’t as clear as I could have been there. Thanks for backing me up with your clarification. But it does work, doesn’t it?
Dan019
CA use the moisture to cure and set.
"CA use the moisture to cure and set."
Fred,
Wood (actually, almost anything) contains enough moisture on it's surface to cause the catalytic curing of the CA. No additional moisture is ordinarily needed, and adding some can reduce the ultimate strength of the bond (for reasons I mentioned.
FYI, cyanoacrylate (C5H5NO2 ) is an acrylic resin that cures when it makes contact with the hydroxyl ions in water, which are typically present on any object you might wish to bond.
Flooding the area with water is not necessary, and may be a sign that the CA being used is old.
Jon.
probably a utility knife...first and foremost though, a decent first aid kit, with all sorts of bandaids for the folks who haven't quite mastered the use of one yet.
Hi Brian
Some of my favourites (Canadian spelling)
Hacksaw blade holder so you can use just the blade. $10?
Rope of all types
Make cord holders by taking 12-18 inches of length and tying the two ends together in a loop. Place it through the center of your cord and slip one end through the other and you have a great hang up for cords. Cheap and can be made to any length.
Japanese key hole saw. Cuts on pull stroke so you can make a small radius. Great for Pumpkin carving apart from your scroll saw.
Cheers
Mac
I would have to say it was one of those flash-light/headlamp deals. As a contractor specializing in hearth appliances, I often find myself in attics, crawlspaces or this time of year working/loading my truck inthe dark, in the rain, sometimes alone. This particular light has 3 settings, or bulbs. a regular flashlight bulb, a LED sort of halogen light(produces a "white light" effect), and a red laser type light that is incredibly helpful in attics, crawlspaces and the dreaded loading of the truck when it's dark an' pissing with rain. The fact that it's hands free is the greatest feature and totally adjustable....I bought it at a local lumberyard an paid between 15-20 dollars for it. Runs on 3 AAA batteries. I'm going to buy a next one, for my helper, before they're gone......an to think I used to laugh at the fruitcakes wearing these things 10 yrs ago.
I love to do the garage sale and estate auctions and I constantly come across usable tools in quantity, 20 bucks will often buy you a box full of random surprises.
The most common items are probably various open ended wrenchs (old style and not too practicle), screw drivers (can you ever really have too many?), awls, (frankly i love these awls, most being old ice picks with very cool names on them),and all sorts of chisels from carvers to the 1'' i carry in my framers' bags(again, can you ever have too many chisels?)
Invariably you will get an assortment of other cool tools like old realing 50' and 100' tapes (the kind wrapped in leather! bitchin'),funky old multi tools (the hammer that breaks down to screw drivers and other kissing cousins' of the sort), different squares and rules, a veritable smorgasborg of useful and useless, unique and mundane.
My current favorite tool from one of these boxes i store in my garage to dig through periodically is a stanley "yankee handyman", a small, plastic and steel version of the old wooden hand crank driven drill. It's about 9" long with tiny bits stored in the handle. Its shaped like a screw driver and when you push it he pressure makes the end spiral thus causing the bit to spin (many of you have seen a bigger version that can spin either way and can take driver bits also) I keep this in a kitchen drawer for all the little hanging jobs or what not when i just need a starter hole or such.
Any way, keep your eyes peeled, because 20 bucks will get you a bucketfull at the right garage/yard/estate sale or auction. Tomorrow i'm going to the garage to dig around and if I find anything worth mentioning I'll give 'er a spin and keep you posted....
I just got a flyer the other day from Harbor Frieght, I don't buy stuff there much anymore but I went in to look at digital electric meter on sale like till Dec 1st for 3.99 Picked one of those up to replace the last one I fried. Opened it up and it looks like the same printed circuit board as the ones that had been costing 27$ so I think it looks good and not near as painfull when I fry it.
Also picked up 29 piece 1/2" titanium drill bits for 13.99, always handy to have a set or 2 of those around.
Clay
2 wheeler, hand cart,
paid $20 for one that will handle 600 lbs
use it all the timebobl Volo, non valeo
some of the best tools I have are also the cheapest!
Here goes...
1.) Red Devil scraper/prybar $6.95 i use it every single working day!!! please get one and tell all your friends to get one too so they stop trying to steal mine.
2.) Three prong to Two prong electrical converter $1.99 I hate using it but it is a must have for remodeling and installations so buy at least two.
3.) Alvin DraftMatic 0.5mm lead holder $10.95 always sharp, no wasting time.
4.) 6 outlet surge protector $12.95 i use it on every job (even if i use plug converter) it gives a feeling of safety and i never get unplugged by other tradesmen.
5.) Lowes special...oak tool box w/tray $19.95 nice simple tool box in wood that clients love to see, I could easily make one but don't have the spare time...this is my secret weapon christmas present this year as everyone likes nice wooden boxes!
thanks gk
I do alot of metal work, more than wood. At Hd they have a spring loaded centerpunch. I can keep it in my pocket till I need to drill, no looking for a hammer. But really the best tool for Xmas, I tell my mom every year to get me. The largest container of GOJO. its like $6.00 that stuff great for oil base paint
The best employee you can have but you wouldn't want him as a neighbor " He the shifty type"
See my "Dumped out my Bucket Boss thread"
Some body wanna post a link?
34671.60
I found it!
Mr T
Do not try this at home!
I am an Experienced Professional!
Edited 11/17/2003 6:33:53 AM ET by Mr T
you found it all right, but didn't quite get the "link" thing down..
Must be that syracuse blood you have....
http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=34671.60
Thanks Neil.
What would we do with out you collitch boys??
Wallow in ignorance Probably!Mr T
Do not try this at home!
I am an Experienced Professional!
Wallow in ignorance Probably!
well.. it's something that you at least know that much...
he he he
OK Brian, Who gets to write the artical? and what issue is it going to be in? You must have found someone out of 103 Ideas....................
We've all been here waiting on you.............
"Rather be a hammer than a nail"
Bob
Edited 11/16/2003 4:29:41 PM ET by Pro-Dek
I think this might just be the cheapest gadget in my toolbelt.
It's a piece of string. Accesorized with a nail and a pencil it makes a decent compass. Best of all though is I can cut
plastic pipe with it. Seriously. Nylon string, like for laying out
forms. I've used it on pvc and cpvc to great effect, but I haven't tried it on abs yet. It;s not unusual for the string to break under
the friction of the sawing motion, especially with the cheaper thinner string..It's great for cutting conduit that has wires in it
that you don't want to damage. That's how I learned about it,
from an old electrian.
String goes through the insulation on the wires though. And sticks if you stop iin the middle of the cut. Works good though, especially down in the bottom of a hole.
Best cheapest always good for something tool is a $2ºº fence post. Available in multiple lengths, make great pry bars & miscellaneous beater applications.
Joe H
I actually can cut the pipe without damaging the insulation on the wires, but I have to stop and fish the string through the cut and above the wires. It hasn't been a problem for me to stop and start cuts, but I have had a hard time with it ( the pipe &/or weather) being too cold. Got me so frustrated that I appreciated a dull hacksaw.
80º here today & more tomorrow.
Sunny Calif.
Joe H
Sunny nothing! Anybody could keep the temperature at 80º with that many logs on the fire. Gonna be one heck of a heating bill though. :-)>
The leaves are finally starting to turn here in Texas...
Oh yea, I came in here to mention a nice little tool my wife brought home from a pampered chef party.
Nylon Pan Scrapers
These little gadgets ought to be just the ticket for tooling caulk.
Disclaimer: If you get caught raiding your wife's kitchen you didn't get this tip from me!Kevin Halliburton
"I believe that architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity." - I.M. Pei -
I watched an old cabinet maker install a kitchen counter top yesterday. When it came to tooling the caulk, he pulled out a 1"x1"x3" plastic cube with a scoop on one end. It would sit flat against wall and counter and run along the length creating a perfect "L" joint in the caulk. He never touched the caulk with his finger. Pretty slick. He said they sell the tool at Menards.You get out of life what you put into it......minus taxes.
Marv
I can't believe no one else has mentioned this one yet.
I can do better than 20 dollars. How about two dollars...
Here is a link to one use that Mike Smith is making of them.
Postholes
Live, Love, Forgive and Forget
quittintime
He's using his roofing materials as post hole storage units? Clever!
Joe H
newest greatest don't know how long it'l work but I've been using a x-10 appliance unit for remote control start stop of my shop vac. Works good but antenna in the way not great but good. So Lowes has Cmas flyer for lights and displays and stuff. A remote controled light turner oner for outside Cmas lights. 10$ and seems to work great. Plus you can look on the back of the pack and match or not so one letter can run a couple. Ie. a C wil run C's or a C won't match the other six possible frequencys. So I bought 3. The packaging says there rated for 1440watts so shud be good for stuff, plus in a worst case you can use it to turn on some lights.
Clay
Best thing in the tool box that is also empty: Quart sized freezer bags. Just the thing for putting that collection of pieces parts together. You take out a working electrical itme to swap it for something else (say a switch swapped for a dimmer). What do you do with the face plate, the switch, and all of the screws? Stick them all in a ziplock, and toss into the bucket.
Even better, say you are finishing installing a switched outlet on the second story soffit (for the xmas lights). Having the outlet, and the cover plate, in their own baggies means not scrabbling around in the nail pouch while too far up the extension ladder during the record wind gusts for the season . . . Occupational hazard of my occupation not being around (sorry Bubba)
Maybe I've mentioned it before, but whenever I see a garage sale, I pick up the container - Tpperware kind of things for parts bins and paint cans.
My favorite are a size for painting small amounts that will fit my hand or the cookie sheet size with a lip. I can empty a bucket to look for an itme into it, or take something apart for repair without lossing pieces and parts. With the plastic kind, I can set it on a customers floor and not worry about scratching it.
Another great tool is this here site. I don't recall that it costs too much to get in and it offers more information than a $20 book.
Excellence is its own reward!
Hey, tres cool--other than I now need to browse for muffin tins, too . . .
The inexpensive plastic containers made by the bag makers are very inexpensive. Might even be cheaper than grabage sale t-ware.
One thing you can do with a bag, that a plastic container won't: poke screws out one at a time, or finish nails.
Not bad for holding snacks, either, come to cases.
BT far more valuable than a price can set. Might be a tad more than $20 in cost though . . . puter+isp+at least one subscription+ . . . Occupational hazard of my occupation not being around (sorry Bubba)
here's one I like - some assembly required - from thread 28293.1
mvc-020s.jpg
24KB