Five Power Tools Every Man Needs

Back in the time of the caveman, humans have been using crude tools to make basic objects, such as arrowheads and wheels. However, it wasn’t until the invention of electricity, and the arrival of power sources, that we saw a real change in what makes humankind different and the usefulness of power tools.

Hand-held tools are great, but for everything else, there is a power tool available to make every job a lot faster and much easier.

We recommend only purchasing a power tool if you are going to use it on a regular basis, power tools can be expensive and complicated to a degree. Any of the power tools mentioned in this article would be a perfect gift, for a father or the special man in your life.

The Drill

When it comes to carpentry, masonry or metal work, the drill is a toolbox favourite, there are many different types available, but the most popular type seems to the cordless drill.

The drill will be one of the best investments you will make in your power tool collection, just attach the rechargeable battery and you are good to go.

Compared to cordless screwdrivers, cordless drill drivers tend to have higher-voltage batteries and more efficient gear systems. This means that they can deliver greater levels of torque at higher speeds. On average, cordless drill drivers can deliver around 50Nm (Newton metres) of torque.

The Sander

An electric sander is a power tool used to smooth and finish surfaces. The belt sander and the orbit sander are the two basic types, both types come cordless or corded, and are used in woodworking at the end of a job.

The belt sander is the more powerful of the two, capable of doing large areas quickly, while the orbit sander, though small in size, can give any type of wood a beautiful smooth finish. 

You can use an electric sander for a variety of tasks in many industries, including woodworking and auto body repair.

The Saw

Another favourite of carpenters and craftsmen alike is the saw, there are two distinct types, the reciprocating, and the circular saw. However, the way they are used will be slightly different, even though they are basically designed to cut things.

The reciprocating saw is like a hand saw on steroids, by mimicking the commonly used hand saw, these tools can cut through just about anything and are easier to use than circular saws.

The circular saw is almost strictly used to cut thick pieces of wood in a straight line, circular saws come fixed on a stand, or as handheld devices, therefore doing precise, complicated patterns is not possible.

The Grinder and Oscillator

Although the grinder is a speciality tool, we have added it to our list, as it can be a very useful tool to have. This tool basically replaced the file, in the metalworking industry, a grinder can be used to cut or shave down metal.

The oscillator on the other hand is the surgeon’s scalpel of the power tool world, it can go places where the grinder can’t. Not only that, but it can also handle different types of attachments such as sanders, small woodcutters, scraping attachments etc.

A must-have for DIYs, masons, blacksmiths, and carpenters alike, automatically making it one of the most popular power tools out there.

The Chainsaw

The trusty chainsaw can be gas-powered or electric and there are even cordless electric chainsaws, that are very quiet, and non-polluting.

The chainsaw is one of the most fun power tools to operate, for lumberjacks and anyone who does any type of landscape-related work.

They come in all different sizes and powers, the larger ones are used to cut down large trees, and smaller ones for trimming around the garden. 

This monster tool was made famous in movies like the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, anyone who says they wouldn’t like using one is lying.

Might want to start dad with a cordless drill first.

Most products and materials used in this article are available instore from Build it Gansbaai/Hermanus or on the online store www.buildit-store.com with free local delivery in the Overstrand area, for building materials, do-it-yourself home improvement tools, and expert advice.