Best Christmas Tool Gift Ideas for DIYers
Holiday Present Suggestions for handyman, Remodelers and Woodworkers
Nov 2, 2009
Some would say it's too early to think about Christmas gifts. Perhaps with some, but not for hand or power tools. There are several reasons for this. First, in this economic recession, there are bound to be some great tool sales going on.
Secondly, what follows on the heels of New Year's Eve? Well, other than New Year's resolutions, it's planning on what to do with that federal income tax refund money. Since the housing market is still depressed, many homeowners are choosing to remodel the kitchen cabinets, install a backyard deck, etc. Certain projects require certain tools.
The Best Power Tool Bargains for Nailers and Drills
There are two general categories here: corded and cordless power tools. Cordless is a good choice for drills and many nailers because the battery technology has really matured in the past few years and these two tools need to be highly portable. Really, nobody wants to drag around an air compressor and hoses for a nail gun. Good brands are Bostitch, Paslode, Porter Cable, and Hitachi.
For drills, both corded and cordless drills, there are two types. First, just the regular variety. But secondly there is the hammer drill. The difference is that hammer drills have a mode switch. In hammer mode, the tool can be used for masonry work, such as drilling into concrete for fastening with Tapcon screws.
The hammer drill is a better buy for most DIYers. It costs a bit more, but at some point it will be needed, especially for homes on concrete slabs or with a brick veneer exterior. Brands to look for here are DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee.
The Best Power Saw Gift Ideas
Generally, power saws are corded. Cordless circular saws and jigsaws are becoming more popular but they have yet to take off like drills did. There are a few popular varieties:
- Circular saws. This is the most common saw and it's highly portable. These are otherwise known as Skil saws because that's such a popular brand. Others to consider are Ryobi, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi. A worm-drive circular saw is more expensive but will outlast all the others.
- Table saws. Basically, there is the full size model and the benchtop table saw. Obviously, the larger one is going to cost more and is not portable. Benchtops are quite reasonably priced, portable, and have accessories available to increase the size of the table. Good models are Jet, Bosch, Ryobi, Powermatic, and Grizzly.
- Jigsaws. The jigsaw is just the ticket for cutting arcs in plywood or even straight cuts in tight quarters. Any of the brand names above are acceptable.
Tools for Stocking Stuffer Ideas
There is such a huge selection here but there's always an item or two that will simplify household maintenance tasks. One recent gadget is the MagnoGrip wristband. It's simply a Velcro-secured nylon wristband with magnets sewn into it. It's perfect for holding a bunch of nails or screws.
Woodworking clamps are always a good choice; they come in all sizes and shapes and no shop should be without an assortment. One tool technology that has risen in value and dropped in price over the past few years is the laser level. These are very accurate and really save the day for all kinds of projects such as installing chair rail or building a deck.
These are just a few ideas; let the imagination soar.
HOL101
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