Power Tools Philippines: Must have Power Tools for Woodworkers

February 27, 2018

What are the power tools used woodworkers use?

A circular saw
A power drill
A random orbital sander
A router
A jigsaw
A jointer and planer
A table saw
A miter saw
A band saw

Cabinets, tables, drawers, and benches are built by woodworkers using the various power tools in the Philippines. In order to achieve the preferred design and form, several power tools are needed to be utilized. Creating these structures can be laborious but it can also be a great way of unleashing one’s creativity. But, the only catch with this type of construction are the tools of trade, which could confuse or even intimidate beginners.

For better understanding of the needed power tools, here is a list discussing the basic tools and even the more advanced ones.

Circular Saw

This equipment is most especially advice for those who are just starting out since it is an affordable and also alternative to a table saw. A circular saw is versatile and sturdy enough to be able to cut through plywood and even medium-density fiberboard.

When use along with other tools like a clamp-on straight-edge, this portable tool can already function with the accuracy of a table saw. A specific type of circular saw that has a good cutting power is the worm-drive. Despite the connotation that this tool is more fit for carpentry, it is still a useful and versatile tool that can be used as a fine woodworking apparatus.

Power Drill

In order to drive a nail into wood, you first need to make the hole. An electrical power drill can get the job done by its rotation electrical motor. When it comes to choosing between a cordless drill and a corded drill, the latter is a far better option in terms of price, versatility and power.

When choosing your drill, check out if there are models that have a “hammering” feature. Such a setting can be useful in penetrating even for non-woodworking like concrete, cinder blocks, or bricks.

Random Orbital Sander

Another basic power tool that is necessary for woodworkers. This kind of sander utilizes a hook-and-loop way of fastening sanding disks. With the random sanding motion, the possibility of sanding marks appearing is reduced.

Other kinds of sanders such as sheet sanders leaves swirl-shaped markings on the face of the wood. While belt sanders are used when a heavy volume of pieces must be removed from the main wood piece.

Aside for an easy grip, another factor to consider when choosing a sander is the dust collection part. It is essential that a dust collection filter included in the unit is able to be linked to a portable vacuum device. Choosing a model with such feature will make cleaning of the area easier.

Router

This tool acquired its name from its capability to rout out wood pieces, meaning it can hollow out a piece of wooden material. Using this equipment, fancy edges and wooden patterns can be accomplished. In addition to that, a router can perfectly cut dadoes and rabbets. The variety of such tool depends on their bases and are respectively called a stationary base and a plunge router base.

For beginners that stationary version can accomplish numerous tasks already, and it can eventually be mounted and integrated in a router table. When purchasing a router, choose one with various speed controls since cutting larger pieces would require a slower speed of operation.

Jigsaw

Similar to a circular saw, which is the portable version of a table saw, a jigsaw is a more portable version of a band saw. This is also a preferred tool for those who are just beginning to work with woodwork. A jigsaw allows the cutting of curves possible and done with ease.

Jointer and Planer

These two equipment works hand in hand to align, straighten and flatten out bent or even twisted wood. Woodworkers who plans on reusing materials that are somewhat damaged, can definitely maximize resource materials using these two apparatuses.

Table Saw

As woodworkers perfect their craft, a table saw is a big investment for those who are no longer considered as beginners. The stability which this enormous provides can yield a more efficient and accurate cutting of wooden materials.

Two variations of a table saw are a contractor’s style and a cabinetmaker’s style. While both have the same blade adjustments, the cabinetmaker’s style can provide more power and heft with less vibration compared to the other style.

Miter Saw

This is another tool that a woodworker could eventually upgrade to since it can cut compound angles on the ends of pieces with great accuracy and precision.

Band Saw

Similar to the jigsaw, a band saw is a good choice for cutting out curved pieces out of wooden materials. Do take note that to accomplish the desired curve, the proper-sized blade is needed. a wide blade cannot produce a tight cut, while a narrow blade could easily break.

The style of cut highly depends on the teeth per inch (TPI) measurement of the blades. A smoother but slower cut can be achieved by blades with more teeth, while fewer teeth utilizes a more aggressive cutting.

Key Takeaway

In doing woodwork, there are a variety of power tools that help get the job done quicker and better. Some equipment are better utilized by beginners, while some are most effective for advanced levels of woodworking. At the end of the day, a woodworker should be mindful in choosing the power tools that they feel comfortable using regardless of what level they are in.