Power Tools Archives

The Best Drum Sander for Woodworking Projects

The best drum sanders for woodworking meet your projects needs, speed and budget. With sanders ranging from $1000 to $10000 finding the right sander for your shop can be difficult. In this article learn what features to look for in bench top, small shop and industrial-grade sanders. Key features: Closed drum vs. open drum Conveyor speed with automatic motor load adjustment Infeed / outfeed extensions Single or dual drum Combination brush and drum sanders Warranty And lastly, mobile bases to …

Track Saw vs Table Saw And When to Use Each One

by Eric Trion

While professional woodworkers know what jobs a track saw vs. table saw are best for the simple answer is it depends. For example, a track saw can replace your table saw for cutting down plywood sheets. But for ripping hardwood a table saw can’t be beat. Which means my Makita cordless track saw sees a lot of use sizing plywood, but so does my Sawstop table saw on piles of cherry lumber. So which saw is best for what job? …

Domino vs Biscuit Jointer and When To Use Each One

by Eric Trion

While most woodworkers have heard of a pocket hole jig, quite a few woodworkers don’t know about domino jigs. In this article learn the differences between a domino joiner vs biscuit joiner and what’s best for your projects.

The Best Band Saws For Woodworking

by Eric Trion

Bandsaws are unique in both the size and function of what they can cut. From woodworking bandsaws to metal and even “bone saws” this simply designed saw will cut just about everything. But choosing the best bandsaw for woodworking takes a bit of research and understanding some basic functions such as: Weight is important to reduce vibration Cast iron tables offer both weight and the best accuracy Saws with rip fences allow for making safer cuts vs. a table saw Higher …

The Best Mitre Saw for Woodworking Projects

by Eric Trion

After over a decade with my Makita miter saw I decided it was time to upgrade. And while the decision was mostly around needing a miter saw that would fit on my bench without needing 12-inches of travel behind the fence, I also wanted advanced features like a laser guide and improved accuracy. So, after hours searching, comparing prices and browsing at the tool stores my choice was easy: the Festool Kapex was hands down the best miter saw not he …

Best Benchtop Planers for Small Workshops

by Eric Trion

While some woodworkers get by without one, a benchtop planer is usually a must for any woodworker. But finding a quality wood planer that will put a great finish on both hardwoods and softwoods can be difficult. And, since there many types of planers, its worth noting that a benchtop planer typically features: Straight or helical blades Support for boards up to 13-inches (33 cm) Single phase 15-amp motors Adjustable height up to 6-inches (15.2 cm) Single or two speed …

The Best Sanders for Wood To Make a Perfect Finish

by Eric Trion

The best sanders for wood projects will vary based on your project, budget and type of wood. However, there are a few sanders that every woodworker needs such as a random orbit sander and belt sander. In this article learn what wood sanders are best for basic to advanced woodworking projects: Fast wood removal Best for flat surfaces like breadboards Sanders to remove scratches Finish sanders for preparing to stain And like all tools, you get what you pay for. …

The Best Wood Sanding Tools and Sandpaper For Woodworking

by Eric Trion

With dozens of types of sanders finding the best wood sanding tools can be difficult. But, remembering that sanding is about speed of wood removal followed by careful removing of sandpaper scratches will let you focus in on the right sander for your project. New to woodworking? Then consider: A random orbit sander is a must-own sander for its versatility Pad sanders are used for the final sanding Drum sanders are the best way to quickly and accurately flatten large …

The Best Router for Router Table Mounting

by Eric Trion

The best router for mounting in a table is first and foremost one that will fit your router lift. Once fit is confirmed, then features like ease of bit change, electronic speed control and horsepower are where woodworkers will go to decide what is best overall for their needs. Key features to look for include: Overall horsepower for large panel bits Ease of bit change Fit to a router lift Electronic speed control Speed adjustment Removable for use in a fixed, …

The Best Track Saws For Woodworking

by Eric Trion

While brand preference may factor into most tool purchases, a track saw might tempt woodworkers to switch things up. When I went looking for the best track saw for my workshop I figured it would be a Festool or possibly Milwaukee. But after a lot of research I ended up with a cordless Makita. After researching and using a track saw, here’s a few tips: Invest in track saw accessories. The right clamps, tracks, and other gadgets make using a track saw …