THE BEST TOOLS DEALS FOR
HOMEOWNERS AND DIY’ERS

Circular Saw Blade – how to safely change one

In this post I take you through the principles of changing a circular saw blade. As you might imagine, I put an emphasis on safety. Here’s a Youtube video of Ethan’s that demonstrates a blade change: Tool List: I’ve used Makita circular saws for over 30 years. Here’s a link...

Drill vs Driver – two tools, different uses

In this post, I explain the difference between a drill and an impact driver, or just “driver”. How are they different and what do we use them for? Below is a video that Ethan did on the subject. But hey, please Dear Reader, help an old man out and read this post. I put my own spin on...

French Cleat – Hang heavy objects securely!

This post explains the French cleat. French cleats are the strongest, most adaptable mounting system in all of carpentry. As a bonus, they’re exceedingly simple to build. That’s why they get used in shops and houses around the world. Here’s a Youtube video of Ethan’s that...

Door latch – mine doesn’t!

One of the most common calls a handyman gets is when someone’s door latch is not working properly. This can result in a door popping open, with embarrassing results. Especially if it’s a bathroom door! Below, I describe some steps to make this repair. Here’s a video that Ethan...

Drywall Anchors? Mounting Plates Are Much Stronger!

I’m not a big fan of drywall anchors. Of course, they have their time and place, but I think people use them too often. Or in situations where they’re not really effective. They hang heavy things from them. And use them to mount fixtures that get touched and jostled a lot. Those...

Painter’s Tool – most useful tool ever?

Here’s the situation: I’m stranded on a desert island. I can only take one tool with me. Would I take a knife? Or a magnifying glass? How about a leatherman’s tool? Nope. I would take this: What the heck is that thing? They call it a five-in-one. Or a six-in-one. Or a painter’s tool....

Klein multi-bit screwdriver – a great deal

Typically, a multi-bit screwdriver comes with 4 bits; 2 flat slotted and 2 Phillips. They also come with 2 nut drivers. This screwdriver from Klein Tools comes with 8 bits and 3 nut drivers! The additional bits are 2 square drive and 2 Torx. All of the bits are blast-finished to reduce cam-out. As...

I love my 25′ Stanley Powerlock – best ever!

In 40 years of construction and woodworking, the tools I’ve used most frequently are my Stanley PowerLock® tape measures. For one reason or another, I’ve used other tapes, but none have been as comfortable and easy to use as the PowerLocks. So, for me, the Stanley PowerLock is the best...