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Viewers always want to know which power tools I think they should absolutely have. DIYers are overwhelmed with power tool choices! But, if you’re a DIYer, I really think YOU ONLY NEED 2 POWER TOOLS! That’s what we’re talking about in this episode of The Honest Carpenter.
I think the 2 MOST IMPORTANT POWER TOOLS are:
Circular Saw
1/2″ Cordless Drill (18V or 20V)
I truly believe you only need these 2 power tools, because they cover your most basic functions when practicing carpentry: CUTTING and FASTENING.
Circular Saws act as a stand-in for miter saws and table saws. They’re essentially as powerful as these larger tools, with a 15-amp motor on a 7-1/4″ blade. But, unlike the 2 larger power tools, the circular saw can be carried around in your hand. It can cross-cut like a miter saw, but rip like a table saw. And, it doesn’t have cut reach limits–it will cut as far as you can push it.
1/2″ Cordless Drills are the ultimate power tools for fastening, because they can both DRILL and DRIVE. I like nail guns, but they generally only do one thing well: frame, siding nail, trim nail…The 1/2″ Cordless Drill can be adapted to handle all of these functions by driving a huge variety of fasteners.
Also, cordless drills have clutches, so they offer more control than corded drills. Though, I do think you should only use 18v and 20v cordless drills, because they have enough power to turn larger bits (paddle bits, hole saws, speed bor bits) without bogging down as much.
That’s why I think YOU ONLY NEED 2 POWER TOOLS when you’re beginning to build your collection. I operated off of these 2 most important power tools for years as a younger carpenter.
The only setbacks, as I see them, is that circular saws can be dangerous power tools. (PLEASE PRACTICE ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN WORKING WITH CIRCULAR SAWS!). And, drills leave large holes to fill. But, trim head screws can reduce this problem, and woodfiller, sanding and patience can make your painted projects look great.
That’s why I think you only need these 2 power tools! A good circular Saw, and a decent 1/2″ 18v or 20v Cordless drill.
Thanks for watching!
Be sure to check back in for more videos soon, and visit us at The Honest Carpenter website:
www.thehonestcarpenter.com
Yet another “watch me, an expert, build using a multitude of expensive tools but you, a novice, can do it with a sharpened potato”
As a novice I will immediately search “best tool to sharpen a potato” on youtube and end up buying some top brand tools which I will never use in my life…….
@Jack Daniels
Not really a power tool Jack.
Give this BOY a consolation potato!!
@Seth Seth
15 years ago I built a set of 3 nesting boxes for our chickens. The only power tool I had was an old corded drill that I picked up from a garage sale for $5.
I cut 2x4s and plywood with a handsaw.
Yes, The Honest Carpenter has a multitude of tools, but if you want to build something, you *will* – your lack of power tools isn’t the thing stopping you… *you’re* the thing that’s stopping you.
@JAZZ MAN I suppose that would depend on where you are and who you ask. That’s one of the cool things about the internet, there truly is something for everyone and anyone determined enough to seek it out. On a sort of similar note, there’s actually someone on YouTube that attempts, (and often succeeds), to make blades out of just about anything one could imagine, e.g., plastic bags, sugar, carbon fiber, etc. One person even tries to cast obsidian into a blade.
And if I really need specialty tools, I’ll rent it.
Guessed right
A table saw and a compound miter saw are the two tools that I feel are necessities. I wrote this before the video started.
Sander for smoothing out cuts.
Sister Tabitha Babbitt would agree.
That is great.thank you…
Your video really helped me to figure out the tool I need to buy. Glad to find this great channel.
I really really appreciate people like you, when my family is back on top of things going to find a way to gift you back.
For #3 I’m new to working with tools but love my Dewalt Cordless Multi Tool. I can cut through almost anything, plunge cut, fix mistakes, sand rapidly with a few affordable attachments… so much versatility.
Thank you very much for this video sir. This gives me hope. I’m based out of Singapore and a ‘corporate stooge’ who is stuck in an apartment – no shed or garage to tinker in. To be totally honest because of covid its been a year and a half of ”4 walls and zoom calls” which – and I’m sure its the same for most of us – has absolutely sucked.
However, left to my own devices I made lemonade out of the lemons the universe gave us. I found projects and started making things. Initially electronics(irrigation systems, custom audio devices, IoT stuff) and then I began modifyingexisting furniture to do other things(IKEA side tables into mini server racks, picture frames with magic mirrors, etc.). But I’ve had a problem while I’ve got a decent drill/driver and some basic hand tools I haven’t been able to cut and shape lumber.
The advice I was given ‘up until now’ was ‘buy a million and one specialist tools’ or your output will suck. Sadly I have neither the space nor inclination to outfit a full workshop BUT what I do have is decent weather all year round, a balcony with a power source, a couple of decent vices and an outdoor table so maybe…just maybe with a circular saw and some decent guides I can start upping my game and making more complex pieces. Food for thought…thanks again.
great advice… keep it going
What about a pencil. You need a pencil.
I liked the video… My two best tools for on the road or the workshop is angle grinder and a drill…
Just from watching this piece I’m convinced. Just now subscribed. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and btw before you mentioned what they were I had guessed right. Woodworker from 12yrs old to 18yrs old. I only left my love for woodworking for a career in tattooing which I love and am now looking into machine building.
Your brain is the most important tool
i have a corded drill and i just got a circular saw, a sander and a cordless impact driver.
Great advice! I just bought a new house, and it needs some repairs (fixer upper). I’ve been wondering if I should get a table saw. Since it would not be cost effective right now, I’ve thought about a circular or jig saw. With your advice, a circular sounds like the best way to go. Thanks for helping.
Before you gave named the two, I called them out. I completely agree. They were my first two purchases. I bought what I could afford, and I have upgraded both, but they still get used a ton. I am only a DIYer and do find myself using my Compound Sliding Miter saw more often than my circular saw. I also find myself using my impact driver more than my drill. However, as you said, I could do away with those two tools and still have all my needs met with the drill and circular saw. I do love my table saw though, I wouldn’t want to do without it.
I’d take a corded angle grinder over the saw
drill/driver, yes. circular saw, not so much. If you are a carpenter and can’t us a handsaw; Walmart is hiring. It is good to have but not important. My two would be the drill/driver and a coffee machine. I’d say radio but with all the swearing, crying, b*tching, and noise, there is not time for one.
I am so sorry, I misheard you. DIYers. Heck in that case that what are the two loudest tools so I don’t have to hear my wife or her mother???
Great Video. How about one about hand tools?
A hammer and a nail is all you need 😅
My guess
Drill
Angle Grinder
What’s Spider man doing in a garage?!
Nice
I bought the Milwaukee 18v 3 piece combo kit with the impact,drill and circular saw 2 years ago on sale for about $300. I’d highly recommend buying something like that if you are a home owner. I find myself using the impact all the time. Dewalt and Mikita are good too.
Skill 77!
Yup, same two I thought of when I saw this video. For speed framing or roofing, nail guns are great. I use a lot of reciprocating and oscillating saws too, demo and dry wall. I do lots of different types of jobs, he is 100% correct though for carpentry. Saw and a drill will get a lot done. Like button smashed.
I must agree. I bought a cord circular saw to rebuild my deck and It’s quick and easy. I borrowed a friends table saw but have mostly used the hand CS. Thanks for the great content.
Thanks twest! Circ saws are perfect for deck builds 🙂
Circular saw and an impact driver. I’m a frame to finish carpenter and I can confidently say those are the two I use most often. For any nail a hammer can always be used, but I refuse to fasten screws by hand, predrilled or not. Plus have to pre-drill for every screw can be a quarter of a day’s work. Food for thought.
I have made 100% of my projects with my Skill saw, along with an electric planer, a chisel and a Dremel which I occasionally use to bring some level of perfection to the imperfect cuts. Have been very pleased with the joinery even. I just finished making an end table from cutting up an old door and have made some cabinet like things too. I rip boards to width and thickness but that is very very challenging. Every single rip is a creative problem solving exercise 😃. Making rabets is becoming an impossible task with this saw though as I am out of ideas on how to get a clean line in a rabet. And that’s what is making me consider a table saw now. It will certainly make my life easier and make projects move faster. Good to know someone else also uses a circular saw for most of their projects.
I’m glad we came to the same conclusion lol
I watched this video and then The Algorithm served me up another video, the most awful trash produced by someone with over 1.5 MILLION followers: “Top 3 Circular Saw Projects || 3 Best Circular Saw Ideas – all three of which are only TOP/BEST ideas in a dystopian hellscape – all bizarrely unsafe, unlikely to work well, unreasonably restrict what you can do with a circular saw once you’ve hacked it, and all which are addressing needs that are better served by different techniques or readily available off-the-shelf SAFER tools https://youtu.be/ts4ciSiaUJ0
Circular saws are fcuking useless, noises piece of shite.
thanks
I know its older video, but hoping someone sees this and can answer.
Why do you recommend a corded circular saw instead of cordless? I’ve heard that nowadays the cordless ones can be even more powerful than corded ones and they’re safer since you dont have a cord to stumble upon or to worry about during long cuts etc.
I question your advice. I know for me it’s 1) paint can shaker, and 2) this one’s tougher but I’d have to say heat gun is the must have.
Here is a good bit of advice given to me by my dad, who got it from his, “buy a cheap tool and if you wear it out, buy a more expensive version of it, because you need it.” I have been a home remodeler and handyman the majority of my 50 plus years and I can tell you the basic tools you need for 90% of home DIY projects are as follows. A good, handheld circular saw with a rough-cut and a fine-cut blade. A good, handheld power drill with a full set of regular, spade, and masonry drill bits, as well as a bit driver for installing and removing screws. A retractable tape measure, preferably 25ft long. A carpenter’s square, a speed square, and a level. A full set of screwdrivers. A quality, multipurpose claw hammer. A 50ft, heavy-duty extension cord. And, most importantly, a good, quality work knife. With these simple and relatively inexpensive tools, along with knowledge and planning, I have been able to build and remodel entire homes from foundation to finish. I am sure the majority of you can tackle simple home improvements just as well.
I don’t like the circular saw it’s a pain to cut straight without having to use a straight edge slow you spend more time trying to set up the cut rather than getting on with the job of cutting the wood I had a circular saw and was cutting a work top the cut was black burnt edges tough to get thru I threw my circular saw out and have never bought another one I know own a chop saw thou limiter to what size I can cut I still prefer a hand saw for cutting long piles of wood
I definitely agree with this video BUT, if you really want to help the DIY people you need to make a video explaining how they need every tool there is so that spouses/significant others can be shut down when we want a new tool and they start with the “do you really need that” crap.
The jigsaw is more versatile for diy/home but slower and more technical…..
the most important two power tools are the hammer and the nail…..using the armstrong power supply
cheapass !!
That’s a lie you need every power tool available that’s why they make them. Try pounding a Brad nail by hand or very fine saw cut with a hand saw ,screw something together with a hand screwdriver. Get every fricken power tool you can.
To be honest you don’t need any power tools at all, but time is money and we need to speed things up.
I use these things for my projects: hand saw, hacksaw, wood knife, screwdriver, tape measure, and my own hands.
skip to 3:00 min’s to find out why
Well that is some of the best advice I’ve heard in a long time.
Most people including myself aren’t cabniet makers; we are what the Cabniet Makers call WOOD BUTCHERS!!!
jig saws are extremely accurate and useful, compared to hand grenades, wrecking bars, and buffalo stampedes. I would always recommend buying them…for people who irritate you.
I have a Ryobi wired drill that has been through hell and back with me. I drilled 128 holes through 3/16 stainless steel for my sailboat over one week about 10 years ago. That poor thing is still as strong as the day I got it. Battered and bruised, but works well. Then I got a wired Ryobi circular saw. Yeah, they are dangerous. Then an 18v Ryobi drill. After that, I began learning (slowly) how to use the drill press, the router, the miter saw, and finally the table top sander. All Ryobi. Cheap? Yup. But worth every penny and they all work well.
Why not an impact driver instead? It can drill too if needed
what are they????
Wonderful.
Built my first woodworking project in college (desk with a bed over it for my high-ceilinged but small rented bedroom) with a borrowed circular saw and my mother’s 12V craftsman drill. Did the trick.
You are 100% right! However i love my table saw and i use it all the time, its perfect too install wooden floors, cut perfectly straight, 45 degrees cuts etc etc.
I’m an avid DIY guy and my power tool list is:
Dewalt Impact driver (recently bought and love)
Dewalt Combi drill (had for about 7 years)
Bosch corded Hammer drill
Evolution Miter saw
Draper Heat gun
I stopped the video at 2 minutes to comment. I think I’ve got all the power tools I need.
Edit
When I think I need a circular saw I think I’ll get one, the same with the jigsaw (which I nearly bought recently when I was fitting some laminate flooring).
👍✌️🙏❤️
I couldn’t get cordless drills when I first started biting tools, but my first two were, indeed, a circular saw and a corded drill. I still own both those tools, and both still work well, even though they have both been updated with better versions.
Just found this channel. Sub’d. Wish I saw this a year ago lol.
Sorry #3 tool
Multi tool a good #
I’m a concrete finisher, I bought a rotary hammer and I’ll soon buy a saw💯
This guy looks like Sean Penns Imposter…Shawn Pen
I guess you have not made a lot of fine furniture
Never
Super duper video! and your right, if your a home DIYér “I need to get it done right now” then that might be your best choice, great choices. But if your just a layed back DIY dad doing some none relevant projects with the children. Then I will advice you to get at a tefloncoated saw (Bacho makes some great once), and a hand drill. To see your son drilling that screw, pure enjoyment. I will take drills and drillbits. well Its not not my favorit choice…… daaa…… yes it is, god darn you, yes that is the 2 best tools (if you do not include hammer, file, screwdriver and a measuring tape)…… and a vice.
I would add a selection of quality pull hand saws. Especially for small projects, smooth cuts, and safety, and people living in an apt with very small projects. I would like to see a featured video for using these very expedient saws. Up on a ladder, I’ve used them many a time in lieu of a powered saw. Thank you, keep up the good work.
mby a jigsaw over circular….
How do you feel about the saws with safety brake? I see DeWalt has a couple of worm drive models with safety brake that stops the blade when you let the trigger go.
very very informative video!!!! thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I see guys do so much with the circular saw and agree it is very versatile. My only issue, and this is a personal one, is my fear of them. The fact that they are not stationary makes me very nervous and I believe more prone to accidents with them being I lack confidence using the tool. I know more than one person injured by them. I feel more confident when all that power is stationary as in a miter or table saw. Yes, I know that many do get injured with those tools as well but I feel less can go wrong if you follow all the safety precautions.
My dad (a lifer carpenter/semipro contractor) always used makita saws as well. Just a fantastic brand.
I agree the circular saw and drill are very good… But I’ve found my plunge router pretty essential for making long dados – I built a box for my daughters telescope using 1/4″ plywood in 2×2 cut with dados to form the sides and lid. Turned out gorgeous.
Also, hand sanding with carpal tunnel isnt fun, so having a little power sander is great.
Also, when I built our shadow box coffee table I really found the table saw much better than a handheld circular…
Thanks for the info. Not much of a DIYer but I like what you say. It’s not that I cannot do the work, I just don’t like to. Naturally lazy. 😄
I like the porter cable circular saw more, The blade is mounted on the left of the motor so it’s more like a cordless circular saw. I think that set up is just a lot easier to use
I would also throw in a cordless impact driver for decking.
Has all of his fingers attached. nuff said.
🖐🤚
I’m a multitrade maintenance engineer.
I have many different tool kits.
Electrical testers and drivers.
Hvac guages swaiges and spanners
Plumbing wrenches pipe grips and flushing equipment.
Heating and ventilation Flue gas testers core drills heavy impact drills
Pipe cutting and bending tools.
This is before my impact drills
Bench saws jig saws.
So basically my van carries over £50,000 worth of tools every day.
I’ve spent more money on securing the van every night as theft from vans is rife in the UK
Corded drill should be before a cordless because of the drilling power. I had to drill in to some concrete and a 20 v cordless with a 5 amp batterie worked but the corded drill did the same job in second and it looks like the bit didn’t overheat as much.
Why no riving knife on American saws
I’d add a router for a more finished look to your projects.
Before you said the 2 tools I had guessed them. Had to hang around to see if we thought the same
Great video…thanks.
I thought you were gonna say a sawzall because they can cut steel and odd shape
Called them both 😎
Before you mentioned the two power tools I had decided the two are a circular saw and a drill. I see you agree.
The first two power tools I bought were a cordless drill and miter saw. If I could nominate a third tool it would be a cordless nailer. That’s about all I need for DIY projects around the house…every once in a while I might need to use the jigsaw or sawzall.
The makita is definitely the best available. It can, with use , truly become an extension of the user.
That and a cordless drill have kept me and my family fed for 25 years. Great video!!!
Well done
I agree.
Mine would be my can opener and a rocketship
It all starts with a tape measure
Great information to know. Thanks again for the info.
Can you do a video on cutting tight curves with a circular saw lol
Video starts at 2:56
YouTube
The only place where one guy can take 5 minutes to explain quantum physics. And the other guy can take 10 to tell you two tools. Love it.
This video both comforts and scares me, because I’ve always felt like “hm maybe circular saws are important” but also always had an internal voice screaming “NO! DANGEROUS!”
Interesting to know both voices were right, haha. Now, to go get an IRL Circular Saw Tutor…
Why didn’t you go with left blade drive? Now you have to look over with everything your doing.
Nope, carpentry is about buying and using the most expensive tools available even if they are actually junk like a $1,200 circular saw.
Combi drills also have a hameer drill function for masonary fixings.. because you often have to fix to other materials.. but i am not a carpenter, i am a joiner lol
jigsaw suck
I’d go with a slide saw not a hand saw, but I take your point.
Actually, scrub that. You’re right.
Then a slide saw, and an angle grinder.
It wasn’t long ago that craftsmen were able to build most things with just an ax and a hammer. And the results weren’t half-bad!
I pretty much agree with this. For my own setup, I went with a drill and a plunge saw at first. Because I thought that would be more versatile.
But while the plunge saw is superior for ripping sheets (even say superior to a table saw if you have big sheets), it is hard to do cross cuts. The setup is just way too hard: you can’t really use the rail, and need to clamp something alternative. You also need both hands on the saw, so everything needs to be clamped up correctly. And it’s pretty hard to figure out where the blade will come out, while you can eyeball it with a regular circular saw. More often than not, I just put my work in a vise, and cross-cut it with a hand saw. It takes less time than trying to set up the plunge saw correctly.
I’m still happy I have the plunge saw, as ripping sheets is the main thing I can’t do with a hand saw. But I’m contemplating to buy a regular circular saw, or a mitre saw now…
Somehow it makes sense that Jesus was a carpenter. It is a royal profession.
Same with me, but in the beginning I could only afford a jigsaw, you can get very cheap ones that actually work. So with a drill and a Jigsaw you can also do very much, but with a lot more limitation than a circular saw.
I would add two more tools, a orbital sander and a grinder. Yes, I know a grinder is not a carpenter tool, although I actually have used them for that. It is just that somewhere you will be confronted with metal. You can also attach a sander pad or other things to work with wood. I do not leave my grinder behind ever.
So my list is in order of importance:
Cordless drill
Circular saw
Jigsaw
Grinder
Orbital sander
If you only have a drill, you can always have the wood precut. So the single most important tool is a drill.
I think for smaller projects its great to have a router, you can cut, make holes, angles, copy some forms, make specific joints and even drill
I made a bench and I’m ten
Wow. Here in India even many professionals don’t have these two tools you mentioned.
you can build a whole house with a circular saw.
Yep, clear up to the fine trim portion, Maximus 👍
Oscillating multi tools are fantastic for a number of smaller jobs. The plunge cutting function is especially versatile, and I use the sanding attachments for all sorts of smaller stuff and corners.
But you’ve convinced me – I’ve been putting off getting one for the longest time, but there’s a circular saw waiting for me at the store in my platform.
12v ingco cordless drill machine best for home use check this
https://youtu.be/4QtDc655N08
I would add a third for DIYers, especially once we get out of carpentry. A Dremel with an array of bits and wheels. I can’t tell you how many things I have made/done with a Dremel.
I’ve been loving my impact driver over a cordless drill. That said, sometimes you still need to drill holes. Then I found some drill bits designed to go in an impact driver. Win!!!
Great video but OMG some of these comments belong on comedy hour.
My grandfather used the same axe for 50 years. It had 4 new handles and 3 heads along the way 😛
I do mostly metalwork and besides the welder… A good drill and a 4.5-inch angle grinder. After that, a chop saw and drill press. Of course, we have the usual measuring tools, clamps, and a good square.
The saws… I have the little Makita and the large Milwaukee battery saws, one is right hand cut, the other is left hand cut. The little Makita is my go to saw for those little jobs. Ripping plywood, or larger dimensional wood, the Milwaukee with a good Diablo blade. Same on the drill motors, a little Makita and the 1/2″ Milwaukee hammer drill. Again, the little Makita is the go to, bigger projects that require torque for larger dimensional wood, the Milwaukee rules. Yep, you can do quite a bit with this set up.
A table saw and or router can really add to the arsenal. Totally agree with your first to choices with the one exception doing a long cut lengthwise with a hand circular saw is not easy for me.
I only have a jigsaw and a drill but i am thinking of getting a circular saw lately cause you can’t get a perfect cut with jigsaws as you said
I’d take impact driver with hex shank drill bit set over a drill other than that I agree.
I just watched this video for a 2nd time and I’m back with a 2nd comment. I totally agree….cutting and fastening, that’s it. To make accurate straight cuts, I use a circular saw and a guide. For fastening, I typically use screws driven with either a drill or impact (I started with a drill because it has a clutch). I’d like to suggest adding a jigsaw to cut curves. I prefer using portable cordless power tools for their convenience and reasonable cost. Thanks again for the video.
Thanks, Imagine! Good point about the jigsaw. I haven’t covered it as a topic much in the past, but I will soon in the new shop 🙂
Wow, so wrong, try installing stacked crown with those tools.
Must agree. But would choose 6 1/2″ model. It saves your arm after a few hours. My nephew still has my father’s 60 year old Skilsaw.
I can’t cut a circle with it however can I?
Answer: a circular saw and 18v 1/2” cordless drill
I agree.. circular saw is foremost..and drill is secondary..but with these 2,u can basically get er done.
Taking a guess before you start.
Impact driver
Circular saw
Do you recommend a 15 amp 7 1/4″ blade circular saw as the least amount of power an entry DIYer should have (such as your example with the 18V drill), or would a 12 amp work in this case as well? Thanks in advance.
For DIY, those smaller tools are fine. They’re easier to manage, and you can upgrade later if you feel the need.
Your content is very very good 🙂
I have neither of those tools I have a mini drop saw and an impact driver
You don’t need power tools.
Glad to have found your channel. Finding your videos informative and honest.
I’ve always thought of it like this: You can do any job with the proper hand tools. Power tools make it easier and often more consistent.
True. I guess it’s about doing the most work in the least amount of time. Power tools give you… well, power!!
Let me save you ten minutes. A circular saw and a impact driver. Done.
Not an impact driver…a drill 😂
Bro Makita is trash! You using Osh Cosh Bagosh tools! Lol!
Why circular saw over jigsaw tho
I gotta my first circular saw a few weeks ago. I paid 60 dollars for a 15 amp corded Skil saw.
Start at 2:55, skip the chatter. Great video AFTER that point
Why not a hammer drill so you don’t get stuck with drilling concrete. The none hammer drill bits for concrete are garbage
When I bought my first house, my Dad gave me an amazing house warming gift. A Circular Saw, A cordless Drill, and an angle grinder. And although I’ve used all 3, the angle Grinder is probably the one I could have survived without.
How about the vibrating multi-tool for cutting, sanding etc.
Don’t hate. I use a harbor freight impact driver, 20v battery and charger. It works! Whole thing was $80
I’m a minimalist and also a craftsman so this information is exactly what I needed.
Maybe if you’re doing certain jobs, but I think there are more than two power tools you need all around.
Hi, I am an absolute DIY beginner dealing with building a very minimalistic bed for my van. Do you think that a very basic 18V Black & Decker Matrix with all attachable gears could be ok? Or, for almost the same money, would be better going for a corded circular saw and a much more powerful drill? Thank you. Best, Fede
I really appreciate your frugality. Our ancestors made great things without the convenience of today’s gizmos…Elbow grease still works as well today as it did a thousand years ago. Keep doin what you’re doin!
That’s what I expected you to say as the first 2.
I would add that my first nail gun turned me from someone who built things occasionally into a hardcore hobbyist.
If you’re an occasional DIYer you should probably stick with corded tools. Why? Batteries die. New batteries are expensive, hard to find and probably obsolete for whatever tools you bought before.
I wouldn’t prioritize anything else over them. They’re the right choices. Next up would be the dedicated driver you mentioned – 1) alleviate frequent bit changes, and 2) cleaner drives as you mentioned. A super versatile compound sliding miter saw makes for quick repeated use at a job site, but that’s convenience more than necessity. I’m building a cabin; heaviest use items so far are the nail gun (framing, 21*) and the (cordless) circular saw, with the miter saw being a lot of the bulk-cutting work on trimming studs and joists to length.
$.02.
Why don’t you cover Bosch tools?
Nice video. The thing is, just because professionals use something doesn’t mean a DIY guy needs to. The big difference is that for a professional, time is money. That means it makes sense to use a lot of power tools not because they make it possible to do something but because it makes it faster. I would never buy a power nailer when an arm and hammer can do the job. Yes, if I was ever building something that required a thousand nails I might reconsider, but until then I’ll save my money.
Honestly, I agree with what you said, but that might not work for everyone. I actually watched this and went out bought a fancy DeWalt circ saw, but I rarely use it. Miter saw and table saw is just too good in that you can easily repeat your cut. Even with a guide, I cannot cut very straight line with my circ saw.
I feel like if someone just do occasional diy, only owning a circ saw won do them much because they won’t have the experience and know how to use it well. If someone is committed into wood working, then miter/table saw is a must.
You’ve got the first two correct. I’d put a random orbital sander at #3. $0.02
PLEASE…Let me know when your SAFETY VIDEO can be seen. (crosas7770@gmail.com) Thanks a lot!
Just found your video. Great information. Thanks. Just wondering, do drills have an attachment for sawing?
i have 110 power tools and use them all. But im not a pallet lumber tech.
You save my money a lot… thank you so much… but i love dewalt… is not good enough or what…?
I never owned a circular saw until my father stopped using his…I hate that darned thing. I can’t cut a straight line with that thing to save my life (I even struggle with a guide). I suppose to be fair I should point out that the machine was designed for right handed use and I’m a south paw but still, my old rip and crosscut hand saws are ambidextrous, and fast enough for most of what I need to do (I’m a DIYer). I do use the circular saw but not gladly.
Nice synapse I agree to some degree. A golfer might say you can golf with three irons and a putter. As a chef I will tell you, an 8inch chefs and pairing knife is all you need to bring to the table to bring to the table
Battery drill, corded multi mode rotary hammer drill, electric screwdriver, corded baby grinder,corded big grider, circular saw, oscillating multitool, steel chop saw, press drill, MMA welder and the world of diy is yours for the taking
That’s like saying what are your two most important body parts! Sure if you’re stuck on an island and you narrow things down to eating your left lung and right arm. But that kinda hypothetical is just daft.
Ain’t watched it yet, but my guess is a circular saw and an impact driver.
I have three power tools — a cordless drill/driver that I use for just about very project, a cordless trim router that I use occasionally, and a cordless jigsaw that I regret buying. I’d rather use hand saws than the jigsaw cos I feel I have much more control with hand saws.
Number 3 is the multi tool. Imo. I use that way more than I expected.
To be fair, you can get good cordless drills so cheap these days, I’d call that one a given. I would prioritise money spending on the circular saw and get an impact driver 👌
You are absolutely right. As a DIYer, it’s easy to fall into despair watching “Do X in Y minutes” videos where the fine print is “with all this space-era machinery I’m not bothering mention”. Circular saw, drill, patience, and a willingness to learn from maddening 3mm mistakes until your noggin accepts that the width of a cut is NOT zero. Oh and tons of sandpaper.
Can’t argue, but since I’ve inherited so many tools from grandfathers, father-in-law, & father, I have the luxury of being lazy. I keep two circular saws and three drills in the rotation, all for different purposes. That way I don’t have to change blades & bits. You can even convert a circular saw into a table saw.
plus i made picture frames with a circular saw
ok and a square
i once built a beautiful ding table with a skil saw aka circular saw and a finishing hammer sold it to a council for 1200 bucks
I am afraid of a circular saw. So i Just have a Jigsaw.
I agree on these 2, but I am warming up to the the oscillating tools.
Really super helpful! Could you do a tutorial on purchasing a cordless drill and bits including driving bit set for the drill and how to use them?
I agree! I’m a DIYer, and my first power tool was a Craftsman circular saw (which has lasted me 40 years!) and a corded drill (the cordless ones were a new thing and too expensive at the time). I have plenty more power tools now, but still go to the old circular saw, and now an 18V cordless drill most often (although I just bought my first cordless driver after watching your video on those).
I would also add an orbital sander to the circular saw and the drill
I know exactly how many power tools I need. The ones I have. + 1 more. Or 2. Or maybe a 3rd to keep them company. er … or maybe….
So I got 50 % of the tools… nice! 😀
I did it with the Stodoys plans.
i built my ex a canopy bed with just a skilsaw and cordless drill & saved myself about 750 bucks over buying the store bought ikea version that was probly less sturdy than mine!
I often wonder why she wanted to keep it after i dievorced her… isnt that gonna be bad voodoo for any new Bf she bangs init? lol
When I look back some 40 years I think about my fathers DIY tool collection. His power tools consisted of a circular saw, & corded drill. The rest consisted of basic hand tools – hammers, saws, chisels, clamps, screwdriver’s, saw horses. He renovated a few homes with this tool arsenal. When I was a little older I started some woodworking projects picking up a jigsaw, sander & funky hand miter saw contraption. My first cordless clutched drill was like WOW! After I purchased my first home I realized power tools would increase my accuracy & efficiency. I currently own a table saw, miter saw, various nail guns, router, a slue of cordless tools & would gladly add more power tools if I had the room.
I totally agree with you on your 2 tools selection…. would be great if you can do a follow up video on the next 2-3 power tools a DIYer would buy.
An old fashioned brace and bit can nicely stand in for the power drill. Built and repaired many things with it.
I agree 100% with this. The third must have power tool in my opinion would be the Jig Saw for the more precise cutting.
Depending on how much work you do a hand saw may be sufficient, but a drill is really hard to replace. Hand drills are hard to find these days and for a reason.
100%
And always have a dull chisel on hand (doesn’t stay sharp for long when you use it for everything), but I’ll have to look into carrying a 5in1, based on that video you made..
Well though out presentation like you I do this stuff for a living and have many tools on-board to be effective but diy’s, can do with less to a point.
Thank you for this video! I just found you and I’ve learned so much! I have been wanting to get a saw but wasn’t sure which one. I can’t depend on the employees at the local store because most of them are just there to help you find stuff (which I appreciate), so this was helpful. I’m going to watch the safety videos now.
Great video good advice for your starting out DIYers but my take on it is you can never have enough tools.👍
Wouldn’t you also need a sander to make all those wood surfaces smooth?
I’ve abused and neglected my Makita skill saw for 30 years. Old reliable.
Also love my belt sander.
When I started out with my Dad as a pup, we didn’t have battery powered stuff. My first big name cordless tool was a 12volt Dewalt drill driver. It was the most powerful thing on the market. Now disabled/retired, I have a workshop full of 18volt tools, funny thing is that I keep grabbing my 12volt Bosch Drills for just about everything, since I drill and drive more from habit than anything else. BTW, don’t remember how many things I built in the woods with a hand saw, hand drill, hammer and nail. Oh, Yea, another thing, why don’t they make corded drill/drivers?
I guessed right lol
I needed a new circular saw, got the big bad ass Milwaukee – and I don’t like it that much. It’s too heavy. Makita or Dewalt are both good choices.
Tools, 7 1/4 inch circular saw, battery powered drill, hand jack plane, speed square, four feet level, 20 oz waffle faced hammer, framing square, 6 ft. Fiberglass ladder, 30ft Fat Max tape measure. Everything else is really job specific. I use miter saw a lot. I also have a collection of nail guns and a couple of compressors. I do own a door mortising jig set which is almost a.necessity for hanging custom doors. A good router comes in handy for lots of woodworking type chores. Get a decent hand saw. Use it to finish cuts when doing stair stringers. It’s handier than a.jig saw or reciprocating saw for stair building. Totally worthless tools; hand held power planner. I own one but always go to my jack plane, router or jointer. The power plane collects dust.
When I lived in Alabama I swore that all you needed to call yourself a carpenter was a 16 ounce hammer and a canvas nail pouch. I am sure that was an unfair characterization but I saw lots of inferior work in spec built houses.
spoiler: you need a circular saw and an 18v half-inch cordless drill.
well explained
Just 1 Q – after what time I need to throw this battery for the new ones ? I heard probably after a year its life gets over.then we need to get new..Is
it right ??
Over the years I have used multiple circular saws. I always end up back to Mikita. I worked for a man who was in his 70’s for a while, he had 4 old Makitas sitting in his shop in various states of disrepair. I asked him about then and asked if I could have them. He said yes, I took em home and parted them into one good working one, still using it today, 15 years later.
Pro tip: buy a cheap 20 foot extension cord, cut off the female end and wire it directly into your saw. (replace the ole short one). You will virtually never need an extension cord for it again!
Great video… thanks so much.
Thought this was for diys car repair…. But the hammer drill is a must. I can make holes and screw stuff in. My car side rail fell off, made some holes and screwed it back in, in 10 mins. Made more holes and screwed in some amps with new speakers. This tool is a must. Not sure how to apply a saw to my car though.
Thank you it is a good choice to get both for basic carpentry bye bye
As soon as i started the video i said “its got to be a circular saw and a drill” i was right!! Very good advice!
30 years as a carpenter/ handyman, exactly what I said. I picked Makita circular and actually a corded drill. Battery drills are great, but you still have to recharge batteries often. Even having 3 or 4 batteries, you can still end up having to wait on one to finish charging.
Sharpened potato ?🤪🤪
That’s for wood working, for metal work, I’d choose a grinder and drill
Do you carry an air compressor in your truck? What power source do you use for the nail guns on a job site?
Back in my framing days the Makita was kinda girly. Skill model 77 was an indestructible tank. I’m old now so the Makita with diablo blade is my go to.
needle nose pliers, torque wrench, socket set, couple c clamps, a drill, and a skill saw are the basics every man should have
A kettle and a microwave 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣
Trying to decide which is the best compact router. One review came down to Dewalt and Bosch with Makita 3rd, however after reading many reviews on both on Amazon and Home Depot it seems they all have some problems that no reviews address. Have any of these manufacturers fixed these problems? It would be nice to get a truly reliable router that works like it should.
1345/74D/Corrections
I prefer a 24V drill, it makes putting in large anchors easier. But I agree with the rest.
Thanks man for this video, i had bought these 2 tools last week.
.. good video.. that circular saw is ok to have and probably most common for use but if getting into construction trades get a worm drive , much stronger and made for the task..also a left sided blade is much easier for a right handed person ….
… yes ,battery tools are the latest fad but be sure to have at least 2 batteries ,, work can’t stop because off a low or dead battery … suggest for only basic tool supply ,, get corded ..
..next construction trades tool would be a sawsall ,, highly invaluable ..
Skilsaw.
for some reason wacthing the tool bear reminds me of those times i did acid
In terms of utter minimalism – a circular saw can’t cut tight curves – but a jigsaw can. A jigsaw can make long straight cuts if you have a fence – so you *can* use it instead of a circular saw – but not vice-versa. A jigsaw can also cut smaller materials than a circular saw – and with the right blade, it can cut metals and plastics too. Of course, you could argue that you can use hand tools for cutting curves – but if you go that route then I have to say that you don’t need any power tools at all. You can use a handsaw to cut anything a circular saw can cut – and hand drills and screwdrivers are available. Honestly, I think this is a rather contrived subject. Obviously you CAN work without any power tools at all – people made beautiful and useful things for at least 2,000 years before power tools came along (but it’s a serious pain in the butt). And you CAN justify working with just one, just two, just three…or just 20 or so…with increasing degrees of ease and precision.
Sorry but I need my nail guns so an air compressor is a must.
And a cheap saw with a good blade is better than a good saw with a crap blade
3rd is the multi-tool.
What’s the difference between an impact driver and drill?
@The Honest Carpenter thank you!! Great explanation! I now know i needed an impact driver when assembling 2-1x13foot raised flower beds, with warped wood, no less. With my dad’s help we did it with his drill, but it was hard! I’m definitely getting an impact driver!
Here you go!
https://youtu.be/VQvDBmUtx6o
My first power tool o bought was a jigsaw because my dad’s finally gave up the ghost. I’ll probably get a battery operated circular saw next.
I’m gonna get a cordless circ saw too pretty soon, Stephanie. I’ve held off too long!
The impact has replaced the drill .
Tools are a addiction regardless what you do or how much you use them.
One more! Osaw! Oscillating saw!
Everything before 2:20 is basically a stall just to make a YouTube video wtf don’t waste my time get to the point
Picked up a circular saw at a yard sell for 10 bucks. I cleaned it all up with a new blade. It helped me build a deck.
I did it myself thanks to Woodprix.
I been using my makita circular saw for a while but just got a miter saw. Much easier
Ahhh! Yaaay! My guess was right; the cordless drill and the circular saw.
Circular saw for sure. Just used it twice so far. Kinda scary first time.
But, it’s the easiest one to use. The sazaw requires more strength in the upper body then I have. And it shakes me a lot.
The drill is nice.
But I wish I had a nail gun too.
I guess you have not tested the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer drill because it’s a damn beast it keeps up with my M18 Fuel just fine
There are two more essential tools for sure. A multi-tool and a router.
Valuable insights!
Nobody would use a drill to drive screws after using an impact driver.
I want to see someone cut crown molding and baseboard well with a circular saw.
I’m a huge noob to carpentry, and yeah, I went with the “hey a jigsaw will be fine” thinking as far as circulars go…so wrong, lol. The jiggy is great for maneuverability and finer work, but it’s woefully inadequate for long straight cuts, esp with thicker cuts. I do have to pat myself on the back for having chosen a Makita for the circular saw, though! Great videos, btw.
You certainly need more powertools than this. Whoever writes your titles NEEDS a new job.
I bought a mini circular saw by WORKS, bad idea, it has the power but blade is not strong and not straight fine cuts ( night mare ) and is not comfortable to hold, not stable . So I’m looking to get a circular one as you mention, I use to have one by makita and want it back !!!
Cordless Drill & Miter Saw are my go to tools for beginners.
It’s that simple, just go to the Woodprix website and enter the world of woodworkers.
Do you recommend a cordless circular saw?
Ethan is 1000% right here. Yeah, the other stuff is good, but this list of 2 is a great starting point.
Thanks for a good video. I had this very question in my mind and want to thank you very much for your advice. 👏
I really like the Woodglut plans.
good stuff
Before watching this i told myself over all my projects i mostly ever needed circular saw and the hand drill. 🙂 happy to see he agrees. The 3rd most important to me, because i do all the tree triming and lawn work around the house, would have to be the JIG saw. the longer blades i can use also make it easier for when i need to make rough cuts on larger lumber like 4X4’s. I use a dewalt and it takes the same batteries as my Drill, so its a good compliment.
Carpentry is nothing more than a hobby in this century. Everything can be created with technology now
I think you should visit the Woodglut website if you want to do it yourself.
Measure with a micrometer, mark with chalk, cut with an ax. At least that’s the government’s way of doing things. 🙂
i got a kobalt 5 tool xtr kit the most comon tools i use out of it is my hammer drill circler saw and recipacting saw
I never had many tools (power or otherwise) until we bought our first house. Shorty thereafter, I saw the need for a power saw (the cutting of shelving) and a fastener (drill pilot holes for screws et. al. to assemble the shelves). Those lasted me for quite some time. As I became older (and batteries became better) I switched to cordless tools and increased the number of tools to 3 – circular saw, drill, and impact driver. I have a couple of other power tools, but they basically have stayed in the chest where I first put them. Now (at almost age 80) my power tools used in order are: impact driver (fastener), drill (fastener II), and occasionally the cordless saw. I was tempted to get a sander several years ago, but I have a multitool that has a sander attachement. It does all the sanding I need!
One last comment – buy the best tools you can as you go along. You will not regret it. I have friends who have drawers full of old broken down, cheaply made tools. They are NOT worth it!
Don’t forget a cell phone so you can call a pro to fix the job you just botched 🙂
tapemesure
id say a track saw, a cordless drill AND a router 🙂
Yep, exactly as I was saying a few weeks ago. All I really need is a circular saw and driver/drill.
Sawhorses, gotta have at least 2!!
Besides circular saw and cordless drill I would not like to miss my belt sander and router for more finesse in woodworking. The opposite is the reciprocating saw fot cutting things (wood, steel, plastics) in hard to reach places, no nice cuts here but ideal in the garden (cutting roots and branches up to 4-5 inches thick) and demolition work.
I’m really sure you can build it yourself. I did this 2 weeks ago thanks to the Woodglut plans.
Me, a beginner DIYer, just spent 5 minutes googling “sharpened potato”. Thanks, comment section.
Actually, one doesn’t need their drill to be cordless with the added expense and the hassle of batteries which don’t hold charge or fail.
2 min talking about your van, tools in storage then intro. Oh my!
Good info. I have a drill. Will get saw.
the hottest carpenter?
I might agree with this 2 item list, if you are attempting to be a professional building things for paying customers. With that, you would want a circular saw, so that your cuts are perfectly straight. But if I was to make a list for a DIY person, building and making stuff for themself, like I’ve done for decades, I would gladly trade that circular saw for a saber saw (what some call a jig saw, the other saw you held up). My long straight cuts might be a little wavy at times, but they have always been good enough. I can smooth out bumps with a plane or block of sandpaper, and in the mean time I can cut rounded corners and inside rounded corners and make pieces lighter by cutting out random internal shapes etc. The versatility is worth the tradeoff of accuracy. Plus, circular saw kickbacks are freakin scary, so I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who is new and wondering what to get. Not really a problem with a saber saw (and again, saber saw does not mean what some call a reciprocating saw). So my list of two essential power tools would be a good Drill and a good Saber Saw. I had a circular saw for a while. I gave it away. If I was to add one more thing to the list it would not be a circular saw, it would be a belt sander. Use that to smooth out the bumps of the Saber Saw cuts. And then figure out a way to mount it to a table, to sand small items. Opinions might vary depending on whether someone spends a lot of time cutting big things to build big things like a house vs cutting small things to make small intricate things like a chair.
I agree. I have done alot with just a drill and circular saw. But I would add a 3rd power tool to that, and that is a finishing pad sander. But as I have been growing my tool collection, and types of projects. Having other types are very convenient, and save on time.
When I started carpenters all my tools where in a box 3ft x2ft. And in the boot or trunk of my car ,now I require a very large van mostly for my tools that r available now. And I reliesh having these tools because it makes my job so much easier and I probably less skills needed so why would an unskilled person require less tool.!
Buy the proper tool that makes you comfortable.
I found some amazing plans for Woodglut. Just check them out.
Great information. EXTREMELY well presented. Thank-you again.
Love all your videos. My teacher/Sensei.
I agree 100%
Yellow pages and a phone?
Jump to 2:48 listen for 30 seconds and skip the rest
I have both of those. Never have to go to the hardware store again,…
You just reminded me, to put the catflap in the back door and I will need to use the jigsaw for that.
If my wife sees this video then my marriage is over
Thank you for the advise.
You are so right about that, I am one own so many power tools and out of so many I use a few,
I agree with your thesis, Ethan. Many years ago my spouse and I built stalls for my horses inside of an existing pole barn. I recall we used a circular saw, and a drill would have come in very handy, but we used a hammer. (LOL) Of course we had to use a shovel, a wheelbarrow and one or two other things, but basically we built the stalls with very few tools.
I recently purchased a 12v cordless drill for small things I want to do around the house. I have been screening videos on how to use cordless drills as I have no experience with them. At the moment, I am still trying to figure out how to turn the “clutch control” behind the “chuck.” It does not seem to want to turn one way or the other, so either I am doing something wrong, or I do not have enough strength in my hand to turn it. It is supposed to turn counter clockwise if I have the drill in my hand pointed outward in front of me, yes? I purchased a Bosch PS31-2a 12v. I did not feel I needed a larger and much heavier 18v drill for the things I want to do.
I would love to be your assistant and learn how to do all sorts of carpentry work, though! Love your videos! 🙂
You’re right about your choices, but if you’re getting a jigsaw, get a corded Bosch or a Makita barrel grip. They’ll give you a straight vertical cut through 2 1/2″ hardwood
Since I’m not a construction guy, just a small DIY sort of dude, I’m just going to get a power multi tool and a drill.
You forgot that in Fargo, ND, a good solid wood chipper is also an essential tool.
Just bought my first cordless drill and it is my first ever power tool. Never used a drill before. I want them all now
Wish I saw this video before buying power tools. I just bought a jigsaw last week and have indeed encountered problems cutting long and straight wood for my experiments.
Before you buy any power tool, put some thought into how you are going to secure the material that you want to work. Portable clamping work tables are great inventions. Also eye, ear, hand, and if necessary lung, and fall protection. Safety always comes first.
For the very casual diy er a scrolling jig saw, or a spiral saw can, in many cases if you set it up properly, be an effective, less intimidating replacement for a circular saw; and give added versatility.
But once you start to do renovations where you are doing framing or ripping sheets of plywood or mdf, you got to graduate to a circular saw, if you don’t want to still be doing it as a retirement project.
I’m switching over from dewalt platform to makita since my battery on dewalt is dying. Bought the makita worm drive with 18×2 and came with a charger, 4 batteries (5 aH), and a bag. Than I bought a makita brushless hammer drill which you could use it as just a drill, set screws or use hammer function for concrete. I’ll build up from this
Had both circular and table saw injuries, nothing major – but absolutely what they call “teachable moments”. When an expert emphasizes safety and the hazards, I instinctively mutter “Yeah, no sh!t!”.
Used to believe only one woodworking tool was needed: The Shopsmith Mark V https://www.shopsmith.com/markvsite/
I would say wormdrive and impact driver, but I could also go with 1/2 18v. An honorable mention to the sawzal
Couldn’t agree more but I’m a Milwaukee man.
I agree totally. Those were my power tools for 25+ years. I bought a cordless circular saw recently because of the hassle with the cord in many places. Last year i bought a cordless planer as I have never been good with the hand ones. It was one of the most used tools last summer along with an impact driver.
Still, if i had to choose, the choice would be exactly like yours…
Just 2?
AND WHILE USING A CIRCULAR SAW YOU
SHOULD ALSO WEAR A CLEAR SAFTEY
SHIELD TO PROTECT YOUR ENTIRE FACE ; SAFTEY GLASSES JUST DON’T CUT IT FOR
THIS JOB. WOOD FLYS ALL OVER AND UNDER YOUR SAFTEY GLASSES.
Milwaukee M12 Fuel drills can run hole saws through steel and solid wood doors to install doorknobs and deadbolts just fine, dont write off 12 volt too fast🤷
Excellent woodworking advice
Before watching my guess is: Drill and Circular saw
Edit: I am the smartest man in the world
I would love a tool belt that can hold a drill without pulling my trousers down ohhhh not a pretty site!
I saw a Ryobi cordless 7 1/4 circular saw the other day … I wonder if they are any good ? 🤔
I would instead of a circular saw, go for a good jigsaw.
What you have said is absolutely correct. But i do have an extra i.e. wood planar as in my place there is no treated/ perfectly cut wood.
I guessed them.
I take the same to tools
👍🏻🍻🍺🤙🏼
They’re the only 2 power tools that I own! Great!
good info well I have my drill I know what to get next peace
I would add a third power tool : a reciprocating saw, a true demolition tool. With the appropriate blades, you can cut almost everything with a recip saw.
@Anthony FI did mention patience, but, alas, we live in a “fast-track” world in which time is money. I personally wouldn’t want to build a house with only a recip, but if that’s all I had, I think I could. We are in agreement, brother.
@steven zerbach Strictly on carpentry, a circular saw is a no brainer, though. I was just unsure if he was talking about only carpentry, or construction in general. If i had to frame with wood, and cut the studs with a reciprocating saw, id lose my mind after 10 minutes.
@Anthony F You can’t cut arcs or circles with a circular saw. Given its name, I find this ironic. With a recip, patience and caution you CAN cut shorter straight cuts which aren’t perfect but in rough carpentry, perfection is an enemy. Besides, circular saws scare the hell out of me; I had to tend to wounds on careless carpenters in the past. But then again, I was a 40 year sheet metal worker before retirement.
i expected that to be the tool instead of the circular saw, strictly on versatility
Gotta have a coping saw or hand saw if your only power saw is a circular saw. A circular saw can’t cut straight up and down, it’ll leave a bit in the corner where two cuts meet.
My brother bought a really good paint sprayer a few years back. I first though to myself just paint roll the rooms and don’t waste your money. But what I did not realize is that my brother was not thinking just one use. He actually got good using it. He has done the exterior of his house and helped me paint the entire inside of my house. He reluctantly accepted some money for helping me. Just think about the tools you want to buy and how much you will really use it. Compare to renting the tool also!
What about the zaw saw ?
Yep, those were my first power tools. Thankfully, I can and do, have more tools.
Why do you have so many different brands?
When I want a laugh, I watch this fella. I’ll admit, some of the stuff he says is spot-on, but other stuff is just hilarious to this ole retired Master Carpenter. Like a Makita skill saw??? Hahahahaha. Now that was just funny. I wouldn’t let you on my jobsite witha Makita….lol. A DeWalt 15A, 50 degree bevel, and electric brake is a better saw. Other DeFault DeWalt tools I will pass on, but a skill saw, give me my ole Dewalt. For a Weekend Warrior Carpenter I reckon a Makita is ok, but couldn’t pay me to own one……or use it on the job. Yes, I understand most of the viewers are WWCs and overall most of the advice is good, some amuses me, others give me cause for alarm, and some of the things he cautions you not to do, I have done on jobs for decades and never hurt anyone nor myself….lucky them/me, no???
All i need is my teeth and nails
Too much talk
My man! I just found your channel and smashed that sub button with the quickness! Love your videos! Keep em coming 👍🏼
Thank you, El Santo!
I am not a carpenter by any stretch, but my I have built and repaired many things my whole life with just the tools you mentioned plus a Dremel and a Sander. These are the only four tools I have ever really needed. Thanks for video!
Please do a video series on tools!
I woulda said impact and sawzall,
but I’m hvac
Great video bro
I guessed right. If I were to pick a 3rd, I’d say random orbital sander would be my next choice.
As a bare minimum I would agree with the video. However, I believe a good quality tape measure should be included on this list. If you can’t measure it, you can’t build it with any sort of precision. Basic woodwork steps: measure, cut, drill/fasten, and possibly sand (so maybe a basic palm sander or sanding block should be included?)
duh. a saw and a drill.
Id say circular and impact.
Pawn shops are the way to go.
I’m industrial maintenance technician since late 80’s. Nothing frustrates me more like knowing that there is a better tool for a particular task, but I do not have it. I own lots of tools on the top of what my current employer provides. In my opinion, the more tools you have, the better.
I think there’s a balancing factor between going for a circular saw or a table saw first as a DIYer. As mentioned, the first is safety; I think it’s a lot easier for a novice to use a tablesaw safely when compared to a circular saw, especially if all the safety guards are in place like the blade guard and riving knife (that said, danger is always present if you use a tool improperly). If it’s a hobby you’re looking to get into but have absolutely no experience, then start with the tool you can feel the safest using while you get used to it, then move up to tools that need more experience to use properly but will get the job done easier later. Second is what types of projects you’re working on. If you’re doing a lot of work with sheet goods and/or larger, rougher construction projects like decks and framing, then yeah, a circular saw is the way to go. But if your focus is more on small, finer projects like furniture, shelves, boxes, etc., then you’ll end up with better cuts and thus less finishing work to do with a table saw.
I keep Plunge saw with guide rails (in my case Festool) And it literally one tool I can do nearly every diy job with. Other essential tools would be Cordless Impact driver/drill, Jig saw, Oscillating tool (aka multitool), and sds hammer drill. If you have general knowledge with these tools you will be the boss .
3:00 He gets to it: the circular saw and the cordless drill. Now you don’t have to watch it.
Not bad but buy a worm drive skull saw so much better if you don’t think so either you haven’t ran one or your mentality off
dude, I don’t mean to throw shade on you, but this is so much fluff, for something that even an office worker knows. I’ve been a shipwright for 35 years, and could recommend a ton of tools given the circumstances, why you mention a drill and a saw at 2:50 I don’t know other than you are just trying for views. I don’t usually write this kind of thing but this is some of the worst kind of thing I see on the web. People wasting other peoples time just to show something that everyone else already knows.. and no there aren’t people that don’t know what you are saying here, it’s just terrible.
Thanks…u know what u r doing and hv a great way to explain. Thanks
I love the fact that I guessed his choices based purely on the title. I mean, what other two power tools cover all those bases? Of course two aren’t nearly enough, but if you have nothing else, those are the best two.
Cool bro nice video very informative
I would really miss my dremel 4300 if it wasn’t there anymore. I have cut, sanded, drilled etc on cabinets, walls, whatever around the house Because if it’s construction and light weight and flexi shaft that can do a lot. Can recommend it.
Oh, and because it’s so versatile.
My two tools are hand saw and a screwdriver.
Wish I had seen this before I bought my drill. I have a 12v…
What I learned from this video….you can make a youtube video about even the most easily understood topic and still get clicks. I’d be willing to bet that anyone watching his channel ALREADY owns far more than a circular saw and cordless drill.
Whether you use a tool once or every day, tools make you faster, not a better carpenter so the investment in a tool is all about getting a project done. If I can hire a carpenter to build me something for $1000 or buy some specialty tool I will use only for that job for $300, it is a no-brainer that I will add to my garage.
Love him in Cobra Kai
A computer and an internet connection are the first two tools nearly everybody and every business needs.
The Ridgid 18V Brushless Cordless impact driver. A godsend for deck building. It puts out so much more power than the similar DeWalt model. Granted, you can spend more and get tools that easily outpace it in terms of power/torque. But you’re going to spend quite a bit more. For $100-$150 depending on sales, the Ridgid model is crazy bang for your buck.
let me save you the time its a circular saw and a drill.
The circular saw is a must have ,thank you for sharing mate
The third tool would have to be a router, although a more advanced woodworking tool, they are just phenomenal.
I’m a beginner DIY in simple wood work projects. I want a saw but have but have only the use of one hand. I think a circular saw would be to dangerous for me to handle. Would a miter saw be safer and easier to use for a one handed person if at all?
I use a Miller Falls circular saw, it’ll never break.
actual answer is at 02:55
Too many people rely on “tools” instead of skill.
Agree. The third I got was a multitool. Good for an insane number of things like precision cuts, sanding, paint stripping, cutting tiles, demolition, repair work and much more I am sure.
An angle grinder is a must have in my opinion, I attach an circular saw blade & rotary chisel to mine for woodworking, super dangerous if you’re not careful but absolute gold in the woodcrafts field 👌
Interesting take on cordless drills. I didn’t realize they were all clutched. Thanks.
impact, circular saw, measuring tape. I know the measuring tape isn’t powered but it blows me away how many people have the first 2 but not the last 1. Or they have a measuring tape somewhere, I’m sure it’s around, help me look. It’s probably right next to my 10mm socket…
You are right , having those two would make the job faster, and easier
I’m glad The World agrees with me! 🌎😁
I agree. Add safety glasses, ear plugs, a pencil, good tape measure, speed square and a 2 foot level. Pro tip for “sidewinders” (the type of saw in the video)- if you’re right handed, try to find one w/ the blade on the left and vice versa. That will give you a good view of the blade as it enters the wood somewhere near your line. Also makes it easier to use the speed square as a guide.
I would aruge for a circular saw and a drill/driver combo kit. It saves a TON of time on bit changes, gets you a good mechanics tool as well (driver is as good under the hood as in a woodshop), and is often priced well as a kit.
FF to 2:10 to avoid the prating.
Why did you pick a circular saw instead of a jigsaw? You can do the work of a circular saw with a decent jigsaw with a guide to help straighten the cut (albeit cutting much, much slower than a circular saw), but you can’t make curved cuts with a circular saw, so if you had to pick only two tools it would seem that a jigsaw can do more cuts than a circular one at the expense of speed.
Gday, the little 9o degree dewalt 1/4 inch driver attachment is a nifty side tool, great for tight spaces, and the Trend pocket hole jig, 2 little side tools that found their place the second i bought them,
I like your videos, cheers from Ireland
Started with 3D printing. Next i needed power tools like rotary small detail work as a post processing process. Next i decides to build an enclosure for 3D printing so i started to research power tools.
My head is still spinning. The same brands have multiple brushed motor cordless models. They also have multiple variations of brushless models.
The price gaps between similar class of tool isn’t even that big which makes it even harder to decide.
Leaning towards the cheaper brushless versions for longevity better battery life for mostly DIY projects that probably don’t require brushless.
Circular saw and router
Given how dangerous a circular saw is, I’d stick with a battery powered model.
I have the Makita plug in 100 bux model + the Milwaukee drill. Its been about 12 years on both….. NICE Vid
When it comes to Circular saws I would ALWAYS buy oposite. What I mean buy this is if you are right handed buy a left hand saw and if you are left handed buy a right hand saw. Being right handed myself I use the Porter-Cable 423MAG because it allows me to look directly down to where the blade is actuall doing the cutting, without having to lean a mile over the saw to see it. This allows for greater ease of use and far better free hand cuts.
I almost never pull out my circular saw since I have had a power miter saw (possibly the third power tool to get) and my cuts are more accurate. But I have had a circular saw and a drill as my first power tools.
Great video!!!
Very helpful for all the beginner like me.. thank you.. 🖤👌
As far power tools yup those are the two coupled with the hand tools its all that is needed. the other thing about building everything is a variation of either a box or a ladder. And a box for the most part is a skinned ladder.
Tg u for shareing..👍👍👍
Measuring. Cutting. Fastening. And Swearing.
Could you elaborate on the difference between 12V and 18/20V drills? I just bought a Trotec 12V drill for €50 and it had no trouble driving a 16mm spade bit in wood. I chose that because it was smaller and lighter than the 20V model which I felt would be an advantage for building furniture.
It would be great if you could video a torture test showing what kind of load it takes to bog down a 12V and then showing the same load with a 20V to demonstrate the speed difference.
If you’re just cutting, drilling holes and fasteners that’s all you need. But lets face it you need a lot more unless you want to rent or borrow constantly.
I agree but miter saws do very quick and safer cuts over and over.
great info.
thanks for the insight!
Power is not the function of higher voltage. higher voltage gives the engineer a tool that transfers more power into the magnetic coils while losing less in the resistance of the brushes and switch. Higher voltage gives you the same power with LOWER CURRENT! Since brushes are a sort of constant, that resistance wastes less power when the current is half of that from a lower voltage saw.
The two tools: drill and circular saw
I finished fixing an overhead door for a banker. He left 2 fingers behind. Un bolted the cable with the door down. With 45 years in const. I still read instruction.
Dude I didn’t want your life story and your mic is horrendous.
The mentality of carpenters and other trades is no different than guitars or cars…….everyone has their preferences and most are willing to “listen” but you won’t change their minds. That’s not even getting into the “I’m the expert and my way is best” mindset. I spent way too many years in the Midwest dealing with knucklehead tradesmen that knew it all and either had done it, was about to do it, or knew a BUDDY that did it. This channel is an exception thankfully.
everybody got an opinion…this guy is good…eat your heart out
I watched your vid. You are amazing in your presentation! Like your circular saw; head and shoulders above the rest!
Ty.
Here in Buffalo, NY we’ve enjoyed the services of a tool library that is “manned” by really dedicated volunteers. It’s become super-organized, including showing the status and pictures of available tools which can generally be checked out for a week (or longer for lower-demand tools), all for 20 bucks a year. COVID has affected their hours and practices, easing up somewhat lately as the virus has receded. Community gardens and cleanups have become a part of their mission. Result: Available tools without the big cost or storage….Gerald
Hello thank for the video. It’s so resourceful. I want to start making chairs like sofas. Which major tools do I need
1 – Coffee Maker 2 – Microwave – Job done!
Before you mentioned which tools, I was already thinking about them. Definitely the obvious choice! As a handyman, those are the most used tools in most jobs!
Before watching, two must haves impact driver and circular saw.
After video: I like the way he thinks. I could and probably would debate impact vs drill. I would add yes 18v and decide on a battery platform. Being about to use the battery on both tools. Also think about your 3rd tool. 4th, 5th, ……………….
The only two power tools I used & needed when I built my deck & my backyard 😁
Milwaukee skill saw > Makita.
I even have an old bigfoot 10inch version for patio work. Has to be a worm drive not just a circular saw. It’s the one tool not to go cheap on.
I haven’t even watched this video yet and I can tell you that the two most important tools are a Skil saw and a drill
For a diy carpenter that would probably be fine but for someone who wants to be able to fix things around the house along with doing wood work I would have to disagree. The way I see it there’s nothing that you can do with a drill that you cant do with an impact wrench with some adapters like a 1/2 square to quarter inch hex and a 1/4 inch hex to chuck adapter but there are a lot of things you can do with an impact that you cant do with even the most powerful drill. Also there is no cut that you can make with a circular saw that you cant do with a jigsaw given the right blade, but there are a lot of cuts you can make with a jigsaw that you couldn’t dream of doing with a circular saw not to mention with the right blade a jigsaw can cut through just about any material. I just feel like for home owners and DIYers its mostly about which tool can do more jobs if you’re going to be limited to just 2 power tools, an impact wrench can do more than a drill and a jigsaw can do more than a circular saw, even if it may require some extra sanding to clean up your work.
drill and circular saw. both are versatile and can do many jobs cutting down your time, both can be addapted to do other things, etc; circular saw can become a table saw with a bit of creativity, a drill could have an endless list.
but it depends on the material tbh.
[ ] Ma-KI-ta
[x ] MA-kita
The company says so.
327 subs, 24K thumbs up, and 545 DeWalt workers.
Agreed on the drill, for general around the house work I use a reciprocating saw more than a circular saw. In the hands of a skilled operator a reciprocating saw can be both jigsaw, chop saw, and circular saw for carpentry work whereas a circular saw is not very useful for demolition work or plumbing.
I 💯percent agree!!!
I’d get a worm drive circular saw and a 20 volt impact driver. You can also use the driver as a drill, and when you really need to drive something you’ll be much, much happier. If you have a couple of extra bucks it’s worth going for the brushless version. A lot of my tools come from DeWalt, Milwaukee and Bosch. A few from Makita. I’ve learned that the homeowner grade tools only make sense if you’re buying them as a homeowner, not a home builder, so no Black and Decker for me.
i think 2 tools are impossible may jobs require demo but i think 3 more tools are mandatory
for fastening a 15 gauge nailer and for cutting a saws all and a oscillating tool.
an honorable mention would be a dremel
Professional carpenter by trade and a commercial sub contractor specializing in finish carpentry on large commercial projects. I use power tools to be efficient and save footsteps. All my carpenters had multiples of power tools and rolling carts so they don’t waste time and footsteps… even changing bits is a time waster.
I’m retired now but still have a full cabinet shop. When I was contracting I had dozens of cordless drills ….. I don’t own a single one any more because corded drills are better and I have plugs everywhere in my shop. If I have to cut a piece of wood I grab a hand saw … you don’t have to change the blade, charge a battery or plug it in to use it.
I see DIY’ers walking out of HD with 12″ SCMS saws. As a professional finishing contractor I was waiting for a job that needed such a saw my entire career …. it never came up. These saws are awful to work with because they weigh a ton and take up a lot of real estate. The biggest SCMS I ever owned is 10″ and I’ve done miles of crown and cornice up to 24″ deep yet these weekend warriors seen to believe they need such a beast.
Omg this guy just repeats himself to get to the 10 minutes of video . 👎
Thank you so much. Thank goodness I saw this before I go too far buying all these.
Problem is, your Makita saw is backwards for right-handed people. A Milwaukee 6391-21 is a great saw.
Could have started right at 2:12
Im in the Philippines and after watching many projects .there answer would be hand saw and hammer
Makita saw is the ONLY circular saw you should buy. I’m a carpenter and they last forever. I use it every day
I have a Skilsaw I was gifted in the late 70s (my first power tool), basic but still works fine. I used it to make bookcases in my mom’s house. I just removed those bookcases in 2020. How I wish I had also had a drill.
I just bought a circular saw with three different kinds of blades and a drill both 18v. I see the many uses of my two. But now I’m thinking, what would be the third? I’ve never used a router, but maybe a sander would make life a little easier.
Thanks for the video!
The 3rd would be a Sawzall. Strip out a screw head and try to take it apart.
power tools: I inherited a brace and bit, and a Yankee screw driver, people in the 1800s built houses with out power tools!!!!!!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P73REgj-3UE&ab_channel=PrimitiveTechnology
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=primitive+skills
This guys looks like Johnny Lawrence from Cobra Kai!!!!
Thank You so much mate !
tkh@blcc.com
Not very earnest, advertising for Makita!
I would add an oscillating tool such as a Fein or Bosch. They’re great for a carpenter and also the DIYer. It is so useful for small jobs and can do things a skill saw just wont. I get the spirit of what you’re saying though. I guess it just depends on the extent of what a person wants to be able to do. The oscillating tool is at the top of my list as well, because you can make small straight cuts in tight places and also has the sanding option. Having said that I agree that the two you named are the most fundamental.
I got those 2 and was set building all kinds of stuff. I added a electric plan, belt sander and orbital sander, then a jigsaw. My collection of tools are constrained by not having a shed and probably having to move in a few years. As he said, this two are the core of my rough building of stuff. Although I really want to go nuts with a CnC router, letting my cad skills get into the real world.
You explained the rationale of owning two specific power tools so clearly. Very helpful. Thanks
I bought different kinds of saw but never satisfied how it works. looks like circular saw is the answer. I have a cordless drill too and very satisfied with it. Thanks for the advise.
Drill, replicating saw!
I dig your videos! I’ve only been in framing since 2004, never rose up the ranks in a crew, but i’m a good cutter, now running my own contracting business of 3 years and always learning more, thanks to videos like yours.
For 40 years I used hand tools almost exclusively as DiYer with no space and no money for the tools. On retiring, we bought an 80-year old house that needed a lot of work. I bought a load of power tools and, mostly they were great – except for the mid range semi-pro price range where quality control was bad and feel in the hand was not good. Here’s the thing: Hand tools need a heavy duty bench that can withstand the forces involved in planing and chiselling with mallet. Power tools are fine with benches you can put away
Excellent piece of Advice!
Thanks!
Yeah but variable speed… reversible corded ….can’t beat that BYTCH. I have burnt out battery after battery not even trying to either!! But yes I agree a good high-quality high voltage battery operated when you don’t have a plug-in is the bomb!!
I haven’t gone all through your videos yet but I’m wondering do you have an air tool compared to compressor ratio … instructional? Because it’s funny how I learned that one day!! I thought I bought a bad Ingersoll for 20 bucks stupid me didn’t realize that 5 gallon compressor ain’t gonna cut it for what you want to do it for🤮. OK I was used to using daddy’s 50 gallon air compressor! BIGGGGGG difference!!!! And I’m the one that used to burp it the rust out of it all the time!!! Can you tell I love you yet?? I’m going through all your videos. watch out. And I heard you asked for comments OK I heard you!!! Thank you James. you ggonnaa smarten this dumb girl up
Yeah when people laugh at me when I have my ears on…. I just turn to them and say what?👀 while my ears are still on!!
Milwaukee and Makita where my father’s favorite brand!!!!
Yes!! I n AiLeD IT!!!💵
I agree, but option 3 would be an impact driver, option 4 would probably be for me a recip saw then jig.
What do you think of cordless circular saw? Its more pricey but is it worth it?
Those are the two tools I started out with.
My wife always has me fixing or putting in new flooring or building something wish I didn’t own one tool
Lol nope that’s exactly what you need! The only thing i can say is i keep a circular saw cordless with 2 batteries, a cordless 20v with 2 batteries and a corded of each. Besides the basic tool belt of course!
What you should do is set up your tool belt and these items. With everything you need for them- the proper hammer, ext cords, tape measure exc…. everything you need from start to finish.
Fyi so far watching your videos. i like them, not just going over tools and or tricks but both.
just commenting
have a cordless circular saw but it just doesnt’ compare to the power of a corded, that’s the one tool that should not be cordless.
My grandfather could do great work with a hand saw, hammer, brace and bit, and a few other small tools like screw drivers and chisels. I admired his skill and bought power tools as soon as I could afford them. Now I’m about half as good as he was.
It’s not tools , it’s technique,application of brain/mind.,patience& Finally if u Love ,u r work irrespective of outcome
Japanese do wonderful artcrafts with bare minimum tools& also ancient Indian Temple architecture
Step by step you get ahead, but rarely in fast spurts.
Yeah grandfather’s are the best.
You’re absolutely right! Unfortunately, I love to learn the hard way. I bought more than I really need.
No i don’t disagree, you right. For that kind of carpentry work, those will do ya good.
I’m gonna disagree on drill , almost 50 year old carpenter/builder ,I would substitute drill for impact driver. It can do what 18v drill can do ,but not vice versa and it’s easier on your hands
Basically you can get by with a circular saw and an impact, all the other tools that are out there just make you more efficient and save time.
I started my own welding company (I started my career as a carpenter and still do carpentry in my work) and all I had was a set of oxyacetylene peanut bottles (cutting) and a little buzz box Lincoln welder (fastening). With just those two tools I was able to build up from making planter boxes to doing full scale structural work (lots of saving and investing).
This video is spot on. Love the work you do man.
A cordless drill is fine if you are doing frequent projects, but if you only use them a few times a year or less, a corded drill is better. Rechargeable batteries don’t like sitting around doing nothing and will be become weaker and weaker. Then you’re buying a new battery or a whole new drill. Corded drills cost a fraction of a cordless and last a lifetime. And the annoyance of a cord is offset by not having to worry about whether the battery is charged or not. My question is, why don’t corded drills have clutches?
How can I drag a simple point into a 10 min video. Exhausting.
Did you out the deceitful carpenter out of business? Lol just a pun. Excellent video. I’m relieved because I thought I was gonna need a miter saw for sure and dont have the budget yet but the circular saw would help me get started quicker.
If feel like two is not enough a sander and a impact driver is honestly needed too
Hand sanding, impact not needed, it’s extremely convenient, but….
Worked for a carpenter when I was first getting into trades. He broke it down like this…
First you have nothing as an apprentice so you use the old master carpenters few rusty tools.
Then you become a journey man, you have a little more more success and experience and you reward yourself with all your nice tools.
Then as you become a master you will realize what you like and what you don’t and keep what lasts and less of it becomes necessary and one day you will need to find some kid to help and he’s gonna be thinking you’re not very good as well for only having a couple rusty power tools, that is until they become a master themselves🔥
If you have 2 young boys , 2 of my tools is usually all I can find when I’m working
My brothers and I or anyone really were not allowed to touch dads tools ever . He had a sign an a sticker on his toolboxes “ DONT EVEN ASK “
I M STARTING TO BUY SOME TOOLS FOR SOME OF MY DIY PROJECT. YOU HAVE SAVED LOT OF MY MONEY, I SUBSCRIBE YOU FOR THIS VIDEO. THANKS BROTHER
I think you nailed it. Mentioning an impact driver was a solid move but one important point you forgot to mention to put the drill over the driver: the clutch allows the drill to hold the bits better than the driver’s collet.
This coming from a Milwaukee guy. Thanks for the informative video brotha!
This made me feel better after spending money on a fairly expensive cordless circular saw. Followed my gut and bought a Makita over Dewalt.
The new battery powered 7 1/4 skilsaws are beasts, but the 6 1/2 saws are a lot lighter, don’t need dedicated batteries, and will do 90% of carpentry tasks.
Absolutely right. But I think you also need a sander. I hate sanding
Wrong.
The two tools everyone should have is two angle grinders, one for each hand.
What about for home owner wanting to build their kitchen?
Cobra Kai carpenter.
I’ve been a carpenter for 23 yrs and you couldn’t be more right about the makita 7 and a quarter brother. They are the best hands down.
I recently bought my first house and I am loving this channel. You are giving me the confidence to start tackling some projects.
I’ll try to guess those 2 tools before I watch – drill and electric saw…
Do you really have to ask what people think? And ask them to give their opinion in the comments? = )
Have a question for anyone out there can you use a dado stack on a circular saw I’m curious because there are some things that I could use a dado stack for but would have to be for a circular saw because I do not have a tablesaw or a dado stack to be able to do any of the details that I need to do so???
A dado would bog the saw down and could kick the saw back into you. Just make multiple cuts to make your dado cuts.
Americans also need an AR-15 to build a house.
I have those two basic tools all of mine are cordless style cordless I found problems with as far as the battery life and the cost of buying new batteries when you have to buy new ones have a rubber bench but I need to buy a router to go with it but I do have a handheld router and I’ve barely even use the router yet but basic work I’ve always known those two types of tools to be the most effective in my life that I’ve known my brother he was a carpenter he also was an antique furniture restore and still does not do a whole lot with other tools other than the basic where I build a porch on a concrete ramp was just a drill nails and a circular saw turned out pretty darn good to sincerely amateur woodworker and Carpenter plus I also know plumbing and electrical electrical will never touch a circuit breaker box leave there for the professional always
What’s tool #3 or #4? I have those two and a jigsaw. I think a miter saw is next up for me.
I do just fine with a drill and a jigsaw. The jigsaw takes longer than a circular saw, and relies more on skill or patience to get straight cuts, but it can cut curves. Sure, you can get a lot done with just straight lines but there is still a lot you can’t do. And a jigsaw is a lot more safe for a novice.
👍☺️✌️
I agree 100% with the 2 main tools…. if you have the skill to use a skill saw you can do a lot with one….. only thing I don’t agree with you on is that dewalt is the best…. lol
When I buy my two power tools, I will only use your links. And thank you for your knowledge.
….and tool number 3 is…..
Needle nose vise grips. Hands down.
Short of a Leatherman it’s the best thing ever in the bottom of the toolbox
Makita has been the best circular saw for at least 20 years now.
99 Bucks seems like a bargain compared to the half inch plywood sheet I bought at the Home Depot yesterday for $69.00′
Get real man. Carpentry is about using a hammer a handsaw a screwdriver a square a tape a chisel a level a pair of high heels some lipstick a wig and mascara.
this is great, thanks!
– Jigsaw instead of circular saw.
– Drill with handle and a quick bit changer
just the two power tools i own
Good video
That’s a great dam answer..all the tools he can buy…amen
I would add two more tools. A Fine tool, and sawzaw.
here in brazil makita is so well know that it became the name for circular saws in general
Then give up rest of the Tool Shed ! egghead !
Just retiring my faithful old Makita 10″ slide mitre and picking up a new 12″ Makita slide mitre…pick up the new one tomorrow. Very exciting.
Thanks for the vid
Then WHY can I not find one tutorial on how to make a box without a table saw?
I use my impact for everything. Drilling, driving, routing, nailing. 😂 my names Justin, and I have an impact driver addiction.
I don’t think I would want to work anywhere near you.
The noise from a impact drill drives me up the wall.
Chewed up hinge screws and over driven dry wall screws. Ok an impact drill can be useful but I’d rather use my eighteen volt drill.
That’s what I’ve got! Well my drill is corded, but still.
I fully agree with your picks. I’m not a pro by any means, but have been a versatile DIY’er for years. My cordless drill (a 10,5v Hitachi, the smaller version of yours) has been serving me faithfully for over ten years now, often outperforming far bigger machines, and only very occasionally lacking in power. I did most of my cutting with a jigsaw (a quite powerful one with a swiveling plate), but since I recently acquired a circular saw, I realise what I’ve been missing all this time.
Thank u
Hammer, tape measure, corded drill, saw cat skillsaw and a shit ton of want to is what I started with. I wish I still had the sawcat.
I’m partial to the Skill worm drive saw, it’s a heavy beast, but it’ll eat aluminum with the correct blade.
I guessed correctly, I concur with those 2. I also really like my sabersaw.
Just this month I’ve used: cordless drill, SDS plus drill, sander, planer, jig saw, sabre saw. Jobs would have been impossible or very time consuming without them.
Okay. I stopped it, before he told. My bet is, A circular saw, and drill.
I agree with the 2 you mentioned, but I would add a jigsaw and an electric sander. With those 4, I can tackle anything.
Said it perfectly only if own it if you want it🤣🤣
18 volt drill.lol…yeah in 2018 maybe… now its 20V and up.. I gave all me 18volt to my buddy..
Ive built houses since 1977…. never had a battery drill/impact driver till the late 90s…saw/hammer/level…NAIL PULL….WE BUILT A FEW HOUSES WITH NO AIR…. now I would never consider it doing anything with out air and an impact driver…..
spend more on blade
Very interesting point of view. I would go with a plunge saw instead of a standard circular saw.
Right hand. Left hand
Ha! Just reading the title, I guessed it right.
Excellent video clear concise and instructive. Thank you
Thanks!
can recommend specification recommended for impact driver?
I am from El Paso Texas, one of the few carpenters left in the city. I totally agree about circular saws ( I use the 3/4 blue foam insulation under what ever sheet I’m cutting so I wont damage the blade & floor and it makes it so much easier control the saw from behind and to make your lines on the sheet while it’s on the floor, you can even set the cut depth, I set the depth 1/16 deeper than the material ) and a good impact drill. A large square and a large level to act as a post. For me I just love to use KREG JIG to join/attach materials those Kreg screws are the best they will by design pull the pieces together also along with glue and some salt. Salt keeps the pieces from moving/sliding around, a old trick my teacher showed me. Don’t believe me about the screws or salt YouTube search it. The brand I buy is based on its life time guarantee, you have to create a account and register the tools with the receipt #, serial# and tool#. This brand for DIYers is RIDGID, they back that tool for life once it is confirmed with your receipt. Only had one home owner have a return, he said it was easy. Once he called it in they said to take it back to homedepot show them the tool along with something he had to print, once homedepot decided it was not the battery they just gave him a new drill off the rack. He broke it by using it as a hammer drill, every tool serves it purpose lol.
Great advice and info! As a novice, those are my 2 go to tools. I can’t even explain how excited I was the first time I used a circular saw! It lit my power tool fire and now I want them all! But for now I’m very happy with just those 2.
Hi. Do you recommend a corded or cordless circular saw? Thanks
i can build a whole mini ramp with just a circular saw and a drill lol
for me its the saw-all loll
I was pleased to see a professional using a Hitachi drill.
This video is excellent, really great information and its exactly what I was looking for I want to get in to joinery but dont have much experience with using these types of cutting tools, before, and I wanted to know how to use them and what are the features and functions like, and what to expect, and you answered all my questions, I will definitely be following your channel and I subscribed and gave this a thumbs up, thank you for making this video. Inexperienced DIY-er Laura in uk
I prefer drill and grinder.. why grinder because i can change diffrent blades..
You should talk about left and right hand saws.
when you said cam out the top of screws is that synonymous for stripping the head of the screw?
Wow!!! Mind blown!!! Well said, we break things apart and put it back together in many different forms. That was BEAUTIFUL , nailed it….I had an AHA, I’m an everyday day that’s trying my best to fix things around the house, I have no clue when it comes to power tools and what to do. Thank you for sharing.
Literally all I wanted was 10 seconds to say what those tools were as I was curious rather than 10 mins of waffle!
If you wanted them to last you would get these in a corded version, otherwise you would be replacing them everytime the battery platform changes.
I have been a building contractor for 49 years. I started in 1972 with an old $2.00 Craftsman circular saw, my dad’s old 1/4” electric drill, a roofing knife, new tape measure and a straight claw hammer dad gave me needing a new wood handle. My first two years were spent redoing shingled roofs. By 1989 I had built up a small house moving/ steel sea wall business. I retired 3 years ago and sold all my heavy equipment and a shop fire burned up my office and tools. Two years ago I got bored and talked my three brothers into going back in the carpentry business. I had to buy a saw, cordless drill, impact driver and a new leather tool belt……… I am happy once again at age 70 ! ….. Gary in Michigan
@Brian DeanCome home to America if you are from here and learn a new skill. Come anyway. Your math skills will be good in construction and/or repair work. We need you home.And with new bills will be past for money in these areas there will be good jobs here.
@Yu Tu I don’t live in ‘Gary’, Indiana . I live in a beautiful two story brick home north of Port Huron, Michigan on lake Huron
You’d think with all that money you would move out of Gary and Michigan.
I used to live in the outskirts of Detroit back in 76 -78. It was great then.
@Super Straight Thanks, I am 70 years young this past April. I bought my first big V twin ‘chopper’ last Friday ( I am scratching off my bucket list hehe ! )……. lovin’ life, working hard and playing hard !
@highwatercircutrider I wish you all the best.
why 7-1/4″ Circular Saw and not 5 1/2?
What’s about an angle grinder?
Mahalo!
I have no money. I bought a cordless drill and I have a vibrating sandpaper (I got it for free).
Thanx! I will buy a cheap circular saw XD
I will never drive screws again without a cordless impact driver. Must have. A far superior tool to a cordless drill for running in screws. Buy at least three power tools 😉
Thanks, Ethan. Another great video.
Excellent video. I am critical of videos like this which try to evaluate which tools are necessary to successfully execute woodworking goals. There is no right answer for everyone. Breaking it down, there are 2 basic components to determine what tools you need to successfully accomplish your goals in woodworking. It is basically time vs. financial resources , or investment of either. You will probably agree that everything you can do with the circular saw in the forefront , can be accomplished with the handsaw in the back ground. The primary difference is probably time, especially since the hand saw is probably more capable as far as type of cuts ( not having to not deal with the lack of verticality in cut terminations). The third factor, as you mention, to be considered is safety. The hand saw wins , hands down. How much is that worth, well probably all that you can afford. case in point, I set up my shop with primarily Milwaukee M18 power tools. Convenience being the determining factor. After careful consideration, last week I bought an ICS sawstop table saw. Although this was an order of magnitude difference in cost, the safety weighting took on a higher magnitude. the weighting of the factors may not be compatible for most. Your assessment is only a specific point that will will vary with any individual user. worth noting is I bought a Nobex miter saw that has no greater capabilities than anything I currently own, but it is far more convenient and time saving for quick, accurate cuts, again weighting of the the 3 primary factors. summary: how much money , time do you have and how much do you want to hang on to all our body parts.
If you need a tool once, you will need it twice, There is no such thing as an unnecessary tool, don’t lie to people.
I enjoy your vids. Thank you
Can’t beat robi tools when the run a sale
I’ve been DIY woodworking for years and it really depends on what you’re making but I got my first circular saw a year ago. Before then it was a 10tpi resharpenable panel hand saw for everything followed by a dovetail saw. A good drill though is indespensible. I do find myself reaching for the circular saw frequently, and I have a track for it which is handy.
Great video! I have a question though, I’m a pretty new DIYer (the Pandemic forced me to explore different ways of approaching things), and I only do really small woodwork. Seriously, I mostly work with really small pieces of wood, like paint stirrers. However, I’m sick of scoring pieces of wood with my utility knife, and I want a faster way to cleanly cut wood. Obviously, and kind of power saw would be extreme overkill, but would a Dremel servo me well? I’m thinking it could cut wood, sand it, polish things, and more. Would you recommend one for my purposes? I already have a cordless brushless 1/2″ DeWalt drill, a utility knife, a screwdriver with change able tips that comes with 7 tips, and basic stuff like that.
Thank you in advance!
you’d like a small japanese pull saw
I’m been using my Skillsaw mag 77 for 14 years
For a long time people would build a house with a handsaw and a hammer.
Dude, you are my hero. I recently got into carpentry and improving my very first home, and I would say 85% of my knowledge derives from your videos! Thank you so much!
Yep! I’m a novice in carpentry and this guy is guiding me with all the honest truth. Cheers to all !!!
A drill and a circular saw is probably the core, I’ve done a lot of work in the last six months with those (cordless Makita) however on numerous occasions a router or planer would have been a boon…
Been a bench joiner (Own 2 combie drills & an impact driver) & steel fixers mate (Own no power tools for that) for 10s of years, now out of work no car but am looking at home crafting coffee tables from 18mm solid tongue & groove floor boards, or picture frames for puzzles or board games inlayed under the coffee table glass. Some form of complex system made simple combined once realized lol. Or a tool chest coffee table may be in order with a lift off top. I have plenty of hand tools limited space & no garden, so that leaves setting up my front room as a make shift work shop? Have 2 house rabbits that eat most things so metal edged timber is probably favourite (was going to make a rabbit friendly coffee table with bolt holes 3 boxes 4 holes each but where would i put my tools for quick semi organized access?). So a sturdy tool chest base is needed with 4 deployable upstand legs internal i could flip up or mount a solid door blank on top as work surface. I will need at minimum a decent straight edge (door blank edge with square capped ends?) to make free hand straight edges from. (1 18V Router) for rebates, inlays biscuits, tounge & groove, rounding, bevels, top & bottom bearing cutters, end jointing profiles, radius work. (2 Orbital sander) (3 Track saw or plunge cut circular saw with 45 degree bevel for edge glued downstand table thickener pieces?) (4 Jig saw?) (5 planner?) (6 Multi tool cant decide its usefulness in this situation even if i built a sledge for straight cuts there more a bodge tool burn through?) (7 dirrect extraction hoover back pack?) A jig for end mitres? Jig for dowels. Lots of work just to get started then it needs to be a wheel barrow style design to move it all to clean house. Arghhhh have i forgot anything. (8 Biscuit joiner, luxury) (9 Mitre saw, luxury) Please help thin out my tool selection im on Makita 18V platform for my drills.
Well said. I would only add one more tool to make three. A small 4″ to 5″ hand held angle grinder with a flexible fiber backing plate and grinding/sanding disks. An angle grinder will bevel and smooth edges, ends and rounded corners with ease when used with care.
imagine this: a dewalt/milwaukee/whatever transport van loaded with the ‘essentials’ ….specialty built in battery ports, built in packout system, each major powertool is linked to each other via wireless connection, anti theft and lost tool locator…can get a ‘plumbers’ edition, ‘framers’..etc….everything you need for professionals: vehicle + essential tools designed specifically to work together…get’s you going on day one. obviously, not for diy’ers…they can get a kia sorento version i guess..
Thoughts on a 20 vault cordless circular saw?
Does Excel count as a power tool?
As a women I dont like circular saws. Too dangerous to me
I concur.
Another excellent video. I don’t own any power tools yet. I am in the market for my first power drill. Question: What is the reference of the 1/2″ in regards to a cordless drill? I have heard of 3/8″ keyless chuck. Is this the same reference. Thanks for your amazing content.
Nice, the first power tools I ever bought was a DeWalt drill and saw combo set. I still have the saw (drill died on me after a decade of light use) and the case they came with. Saw is still running fine too 🙂
Great video. Your absolutely correct on the tools. I am a framer by trade but now just do small remodels and DIY. That’s all I carry, well sometimes a sawzall
The essential multitoool has to be another essential.
Nonsense. As I’ve got older I have accumulated more power tools. For instance after I got an impact wrench, I could kick myself for not getting one ten years earlier. A ratchet wrench also makes working on cars and m/cs easier. One friend says there is no job too small that you can’t use a power tool.
BTW, I have a small 4.8 cordless screwdriver for tiny DIY jobs. A sawsall, 2 oscillating tools, a circular saw, a miter saw, a hammer drill screwdriver that is too heavy and not even the right tool! Plus, I have a hand held saw and a drywall saw.
Awesome video! Thank you! I have purchased 3 of the wrong screw drivers so far.
Last was a hammer drill! I cant even use it!
I just need a screw driver that is also a drill.
Not a fancy one or a heavy one. I’m a woman and need a light weight drill for home DIY small furniture projects.
Plus, I am going to build a closet!
Talk talk…🥴
I’d say an oscillating tool is actually a much better cutting tool for 90% of DIY’ers. I’d recommend buying an oscillating tool, and renting or borrowing a circ saw on the rare occasions you actually need one for a home project (emphasis on rare).
Cuts up to 4″ thick with a round blade, so anything a home owner is likely to to use.
Orders of magnitude safer.
Can make small detail cuts that a circular saw just can’t.
Doubles as a sander, grinder, nail cutter, scraper, box cutter, grout & caulk remover, etc.
Can be used safely at awkward angles, tight spaces, and without a work table/sawhorse.
Blades are way cheaper.
Only downside is that it’s slower for pure cutting, but for the majority of home projects with short cuts you’d never notice. And it will do long cuts, you just have to be careful and take your time.
Don’t get me wrong, a circ saw is a great tool, but if we only get 2 tools, drill and oscillating are the way to go.
Awesome 😎
I built a set of kitchen cabinets with a circular saw ( bolted under plywood ).out of town cause that’s all I had..(except 30+years experience in Cabinet making)
Left hand and right hand. Two tools. LOL.
The answer’s at 02:53 03:00
I built a 4ft picket fence last year with absolutely no carpentry experience in my 40 years. I bought a Dewalt 20v drill and their reciprocating saw. Just a few YouTube videos and got it up in a few days. I realize I can’t make great cuts with the reciprocating saw, but it did work fine for that project.
Tools don’t give you the skills but tools can make the job easier all around. Nothing like having the right tool for the job. I’m one for if you can afford it buy it. If your handy tools are never a bad investment. But good choice on the the two tools. Becoming comfortable with a circular saw is key !
Once you’ve used an impact driver you know you can’t do without one
I agree
This is the most absolutely true statement on earth. Pissed my dad always told me they were too powerful and crack wood
i don’t remember which video it was. What was the mikita bit was your go to?
Dude I love your channel you reignited the woodwork love I had before and now I’m looking foward to getting my contractor license for carpentry
thanks for this valuable intel bro
As someone that owns a circular saw I think a table saw is great for DIY’ers. It can mitre architraves, rip accurately and there is less set up time. It makes up for errors us DIYers can make and portability isn’t as important to professionals. The circular saw is better where you need to take the tool closer to the work area.
@toemas8 That’s what I mean – when I was using a borrowed table saw, I was able to make long, shallow cuts, which I couldn’t do with the circular saw after returning my friend’s table saw.
@Lachlan Bell with both table saws and skill saws you adjust the depth .
After using a borrowed table saw, one thing I really notice with the circular saw is the inability to adjust the cut depth. I just picked up a multitool, but before that it was back to a handsaw for every shallow cut I needed to make.
This is great. I DON’T know about tools but I’m trying to learn – without spending tons of money.
Ok, now the question. Why do you use corded circular saw and cordless drill? I was looking for your video comparing cordless and corded circular saws and I can’t find it. I am an old lady ready to begin DIY projects with these two tools (I need to fix my flower bed… Yes, I can do it)… anyway… I would prefer the least heavy tool… so, what would you recommend? Still this corded? or should I buy a cordless one?
The only power tools that are REALLY needed are a chain saw and a coffee maker.
The correct number of power tools is the number you have now, plus one.
The best tool is a poor butler.
Disagree. I used a Chainsaw to rapidly remove a doored pantry from my kitchen to make it more spacious before the remodel.
More of a mechanic guy but when I saw this in my head I thought an impact driver and an angle grinder. Little different but kinda the same thing, something to cut and something to drill/loosen things.
Im starting out can you recommend the tools i need better brand at affordable prices
COOL
Tool 1: Drill
Tool 2: Circular Saw
For the limited work I do a reciprocating saw works best
Fuck yea I’m super interested in DIY and I deduced these 2 are the must haves if I can’t get anything else I’m glad an experienced carpenter confirmed this!
what about cutting curves? can the circular saw do that?
Skill saw, sawzall, chop saw, multitool, drill driver, various bits, 16 ft tape, speed square, pencil, 22 oz hammer, pencil, utility knife, needlnose pliers, and maybe a few other things and u can do just about anything in a house. A good compressor and various nailers from finish to brad nailers. Oh and a palm nailer occasionally.
Sidewinder vs. worm drive?
@The Honest Carpenter I’d probably agree but it’s inconvenient to have to look over the saw and your arm (I’m right handed) to see the cut on a sidewinder while with the worm drive you have to be ready to take the weight as the cut piece falls of. Most under rated Mikita is the 4 3/8″ sidewinder (4200N). You can almost carry it in your pouch, works great on roof sheathing, and it will almost go through a 2X.
I’m gonna do it, Cardo! I do prefer sidewinders though for general carpentry—worm drive for framing.
Amatuer’s / hobbyist should avoid circular saw. They can cause injuries due to kickbacks.
I prefer Jigsaw since I am a wood worker hobbyist !
I couldn’t agree more. Nailed it….or should I say…cut and fastened it…
I give you an A plus.
Great video, thanks. When I was kid it was before the DIY stores showed up (I’m carbon dating myself). I remember my Dad developed our basement with barely any tools, because these were expensive back then with no big box DIY stores to compete with each other. He was patient so he’d often use just hand saws instead of circular saws. Of course, he used a drill.
Prediction before watching, drill driver and circular saw.
Nice content. I was looking exactly for this. But don’t you think a drill(with clutch) with a cable will last longer? The battery does degrade with years. And DIYers like me use these kinda tools only a couple of times a year. And when in need we find the battery has lost its charm of keeping the charge. Or in general, for how many years does this battery lasts?
I’d go for a table saw.
Currently building a DIY van conversion with just a jigsaw, mitre saw and a drill. A jigsaw is definitely crucial to go around all the weird curves of the van, but is making the straight lines of the kitchen cabinets a bit of a struggle…
Totally agree. I mostly only use these two tools for everything. It may take longer to do certain things, but if you are patient you can build almost anything
imma need someone to do a video with tools from Walmart.
Can u do a video on how to build a basic wood shed
Worm drive Skilsaw for the win. Have you seen the Essential Craftsman use one of these? Sold me right then and there.
Why not build a custom drill powered table saw instead of the circular saw ?
Well I have to agree with this – I also own too many tools to to fit into my tool trailer and ute but I had to fly interstate to build a deck and being last minute I was’nt able to freight my tools so they had to go in baggage. I ended up with a Makita 7& 1/4 circular, a couple of speed squares, battery drill and impact driver. At the end of it I had to reassess my approach to building and nowdays the mitre saw I only take for specific jobs whereas previously it went every where by default. Take the saw to the timber not the timber to the saw
A
That’ll build you a whole deck, AP! 😄
Cliffs: circular saw & 18V 1/2″ cordless drill
I’d of gone orbital sander and impact driver. The brace and bit is massively undervalued. You’ve cheated and select 3 tools!
You have an awesome channel
The comment section –> 👍
If I wanted to go for some speed and long cuts I would definetly go with the circular saw as suggested but I recently rediscovered my jigsaw and it is quite amazing how accurate it can be with some practice and patience. Also I would go for a hammer drill for masonry applications.
I think the jig saw option would be better for me plus it adds the option of cutting odd shapes, that’s huge. It seems a lot safer and easier to use. And I wonder if using a long guide would make long cuts easy. Just checked and it does bevel cuts. I can see how the circular saw would be great for cutting 2×4’s to size very quickly. I’ve seen that done a lot. But I’m betting a jig saw could do it also we just never see it being done. I think the circular saw blade sorta makes it’s own guide because the blade has length and that’s great for quick freehand cuts. But if you just use a guide with a jig saw like a small square then it would cut straight I think. I could see myself holding a square on the end of a the 2×4 in one hand and cutting it straight like a circular saw would do it. Anyways just my thoughts.
Great videos! Could you recommend a brand on drills? I use a Makita 18V, and it also has a hammer drill and screw function. Often takes the place of my impact driver in a pinch. Thanks again!
2:56 – That’s why I think you only need these 2 power tools! A good circular Saw, and a decent 1/2″ 18v or 20v Cordless drill.
starts at 2:15
That’s why I think you only need these 2 power tools! A good circular Saw, and a decent 1/2″ 18v or 20v Cordless drill.
Fantastic ty!
Great perspective. Thx!
High five!
Drill/driver, chop saw, and saws all….THOSE are my most used tools, followed by a skill saw, and jig saw.
Top three power tools: circular saw, cordless drill, SECOND cordless drill.
@Peety Wondr right
Or at least a quick-change chuck . . . nothing worse than having to change from drill bit to driver bit every few seconds, right?
Hasn’t got a clue. Wow I’m speechless to comment without hurting feelings
I’ve done floating book shelves shaped like clouds with a saws-all.
I’ve built 4×8 and 2′ tall garden planted with hand tools…
I’ve learned creativity trumps finances. Finances just make creativity easier. That’s all.
That book store looks like a record store to me.
Video starts at 2:55 and ends at 3:01, ur welcome
As a novice I’d love to see more on safety.
Safety third!!!
Look through his video collection and Subscribe. There are plenty.
Great video! What size circular saw would you recommend?
@The Honest Carpenter sorry, just realised you’d linked to that size in the notes! 🤦♂️
@The Honest Carpenter nice one! I’m looking at 185mm (UK) so on the same page 👌
Thanks Darren! I always go with a 7-1/4. Big enough to get through lots of material thicknesses, and plenty of power.
the equation for the right amount of tools is the same as my cycle collection M+1 m being what I have and +1 for what I need
Dude, circular saws are great, but if you own a home and are looking to fix up the inside. Circular saws ain’t doing anything for you.
This is my new favorite channel. THANK YOU for providing so much info!
30 year Master Educator here (High School Teacher) who spent 2 semesters in electrical trade school and worked in construction afterwards; Thanks for not wasting a word nor wasting our time. I learned so much , but learned even more from your videos. I was mentored by a Master Carpenter and you both are on the identical wavelengths. Much gratitude to you, Kind Sir! Peace Be To Journey!
“… Unless you really want it” – tool addict
Torque saw and a left handed monkey wrench
I bought 2 tools for wood work, 2 tools for tile and masonry, 2 tools for metal and steel, 2 tools for gardening, now I have a room full of tools like yours.
Excellent video. I’d love to have a workshop filled with a
Pillar drill
Table saw
Chop saw
Router
Oh it’s tool pornography
I’m sure installing trim with a drill will look great!
Fellas I need your assistance. Should I buy a square or a level?
I’d really struggle to live without my oscilating multitool, but would I take one over a circular saw for a one size fits all? I don’t know, but I know many non-carpentry tradesmen who do. If you’re a plumber, or electrician, a drill & oscilator tool are fantastic options.
Agree 100%, these days there are some options in the range – battery drill hammer has a bunch more torque and power than your regular cordless, and also works in hard concrete or steel. Mini ( 3″)circular saw (Varo e.g.) is easier to handle and does 90% of what the large version does.
The grandiose interviewer prenatally double because white thankfully touch afore a tan environment. hard, willing vest
I agree 100% and would add that a DIYer can probably get away with a cordless circular saw instead of corded. It’s safer because it has less power, but still has enough power to do pretty much anything you need. Get the drill and saw in the same brand (Makita of course) and you can interchange the batteries.
Thanks! This info is just what I was looking for.
My dad had a construction company growing up and he always used the skill saw brand. I’m 44 years old as well even though I doubt that’s important.
Then for the electric drill, maybe I’m weird but I just always drifted towards Craftsman. 18-volt is perfect and I also love an impact. I mean I love an impact over a drill any day of the week.
Lastly the one thing I learned recently is, the reason you have to Buy a new blade on any saw is the fact they get hot. Once they get hot the blade becomes like a flat disc and their teeth or not yawed out to the left or right anymore. I haven’t done this but the next time I do anything big I will be carrying a water bottle to cool the blade off. I’m a cheap bastard and waters almost free.
Didn’t know where to start until I watched this video. Thank you
Dude, you are my alter?? self! I came to the same realization myself as a DYI’er. Subscribed.
Me need no tool, me use hand. Awooga booga.
Multitool is so great to have. Not necessary, But for renovation, cutting holes in cabinets and walls, sanding, finishing flooring between rooms. It`s so diverse. Great video!
100% in agreement here; I’m a hobby DIYer and my only power tool for the last 40 years has been an 18v cordless drill. If I was a pro time would be money, but doing my own projects means I have time to go the long way around, even if it means taking the best part of an afternoon and several recharges to go deep with a holesaw.
You should build a tree house shop
Excellent advice.
2:15
I’ve been holding off on a circular saw as my angle grinder with proper wood cutting disc and speed controller works fine for my diy hobby. Any reason to switch to a real circular saw besides the cut depth and angle adjustments?
This is true, when I was 16 my friend and I build an entire wood skatepark in my backyard with just a saw and a drill. Can’t believe that was so long ago lol. Im looking at miter videos and this video popped up. Good content
Despite what some builders think, building construction is not the end all, be all, of carpentry. Which tools depend on the type of carpentry you intend to do. A circular saw, for example, is near useless for cabinetry, finish carpentry, and similar. That jig saw would probably be a better choice. Toss in a sander as well.
As a spark I need 4
Impact driver
Rotary hammer drill
Multi tool
Angle grinder
Problem solved can do pretty much anything with those 4 tools
I started out with screwdrivers and that cheap plastic miter box. You know the one. Eventually I saved up enough for a corded drill. Then I got a circular saw.
But I kinda regret not holding out for a track saw instead.
Wife wants me to insulate our double garage, so I’ve bought a new Makita impact driver and and a Mafell track saw to get a straight cut on insulation board! 😂😂😂
Why the orange paint ??
None, use other peoples, save the outlay cost and repair costs.
Luckily I found this video just AFTER having bought exactly those two tools… :o)
my wallet says a jigsaw and a 12v drill is all i need
Good info! Gave my old circular (craftsman) saw away to a farmer friend. Going to get a Mikita. Now, can you teach me to make a bookcase?
7:42 18V and 20V are the same. They are both 18V, 20V is just a marketing lie. It´s the same with other voltages, the classes are: 10.8V, 18V and 36V. 12V, 20V and 40V are just marketing lies.
They don´t show the nominal/rated voltage, they show the loading cut off voltage, which you can´t use.
If you work with steel instead of wood you should replace the circular saw with an angle grinder. But even then, you need the 18V cordless drill, so that one is the most important.
Very interesting and concise. Well put together. I liked the reference to safety. My colleague used to refer to DYI (not DIY) … ‘ Do Yourself In’. ‘
Have to agree that’s common sense at it’s best explain by the professional who had being paying attention since child hood ….well done, will follow advise along with my five plus painter’s knife instead of a wallet, Zas !!
As a DYIer, my circular saw rarely gets used. Close to never! Only to break down sheet wood on my side porch as I can’t get the stuff into the basement workshop in full sheets.
My 2 most essential tools . . .
1/ Drill. No argument there! And cordless is great . . . but not absolutely essential. On rare occasions, only the old corded drill has the oomph required, or the batts on the cordless need charging and I don’t want to wait.
2/ My 1976 vintage Craftsman radial arm saw! Obviously, not portable! Obvious too, there are better saws but my RAS has served me well for going on half a century! It is essential! To me, at least. The circular? Not nearly so much!
I recently convinced myself I “needed” a Sawstop cabinet saw! But sanity prevailed.
So the video is what two tools should you buy first?. I see🙄, click bait🤬
So what if you want to do shapes like I want to do a Africa map what tools would I get to ship all the little grooves do you still need that particular to or do I have to get another kind of too
Great video but you forgot the marriage factor, tools are what keep a marriage going.
.awesome recap or conclution.. so important for beginner or diyer.. thxs so much.. super cool
Thank you
👍👍😎
Dude… dude… dude… take this video down.
This is pure hypocrisy, how do you make a rabbet cut! Vice it to the table? lol. Nonsense, you need the right tools for the job, and that’s all of them…someday, when I’m independently wealthy I foresee a wall of only Festool. I suppose I’ll have to forgo the Bugatti’s since it would cost as much as 2 to own the collection…le sigh.
You dont NEED either, a handsaw a yankee and a metabo.
Here’s a good tip… When laying flooring, a router is much handier than a jig saw. It makes quick work of precise trimming for notched areas.
I use 3 tools. Circular saw, cordless drill and a sander (which is actually a grinder with a sanding pad)
You nailed it! Oh, but that requires a hammer?🤔
Love the three bin composter pictured at 8:50 on the video. That’s what I want to make. Starting to build my tools. I made some raised garden beds but got my screws stuck in half way! Love your basic information.
Drill driver n a impact driver job done
Wormdrive nuff said
Great video. What do you think about someone 80 y/o switching to a smaller 5 1/2″ or 6 1/2″ circular saw? Battery or corded. I’m getting older and don’t do a lot of cutting with my 7 1/2″ but need something when I’m outside doing projects.
I don’t have much experience with 5-1/2” wayne, but 6-1/2” saws have come in handy for me in the past! Probably battery. The only issue I’ve had is some have safeties and it has actually made it much harder to operate them!
For electrical work, all you really need is a drill/hammer drill combo and a sawzall
This was so great. I’m getting ready to teach older women how to use some power tools. Thank you. I subscribed to your channel.
I once went to a private homeowner’s shop to cut rails for my deck. For a fee he would guide you through the process of using his wood cutting machinery. Two older women were at the shop at the same time, one a retired doctor and the other her friend. Weeks before the doctor had cut off the tip of a finger while using her own equipment in her new woodworking shop. Sort of learning curve….
@Miles McCall I wouldn’t say ‘elderly’. But we’re not spring chickens. Surprisingly strong and mighty. It just keeps getting better. Thanks for the tip.
Honestly, a circular saw is probably a terrible thing to hand to an elderly person who is just learning power tools. Arm strength, grip strength, and reflexes are essential for handling a circ saw safely (especially if something goes wrong).
I’d really suggest an oscillating tool or a table mounted saw instead.
AWESOME!
Sincerely, an older woman who is starting a remodeling biz.
Good advice for beginners and enthusiasts. However, having been a carpenter in UK for just over 40 years, I would say that table saws (and especially band saws because they are prone to snapping blades and coiling like snakes in mid air around fingers, hands, arms and anything else; I have seen it happen in workshops) are far more dangerous than hand held circular saws. That is because with a circular saw, when used correctly, you have both hands on the tool. With table saws, you have no hands on the tool – and that is when the majority of accidents happen. Even the guy who taught me years ago, who is still the best carpenter I have ever known (precision-wise), had a finger missing from using a panel saw. It is for that reason that public liability insurance is cheaper when you use saws that you take to the wood (hand held) than when you take the wood to the saw (free standing machinery). In all cases, whatever power saw you use, NEVER put your hand in the path and ALWAYS keep your hands as far way from the blade as is possible. Your tip about removing the trigger finger immediately after a cut is finished or for some reason stopped is a great tip. Another thing I have seen (again, by my tutor many years ago) is when drilling with any power drill, go slowly and let the tool do the work, don’t force it because if the drill bit suddenly bends under too much pressure, it will flip the drill out of your hand and if it is electric (as opposed to battery), it will leap around on the floor like a mad thing and cause damage and injuries. As a tip of my own, I am downsizing from cabled electric tools to having all battery power now because they are generally safer and are far more versatile – I can go to the top of a remote mountain and still do my job, albeit with a little less power and a little more patience. The only thing I would need in such a situation is a petrol generator to recharge my batteries. The reason I am making the change is largely based on safety – battery tools don’t have cables, which can cause havoc when working in people’s homes with children and pets running around. It’s also easy to disable them by just removing the battery, so nobody can accidentally trigger a tool and cause damage or injury. Hope this advice helps. Great series of vids, by the way, keep it up!
As an old dog carpenter, I think this guy is spot on.
When it comes to circular saw , Makita is the best ., only the classic style ., not the magnesium version
I got my first circular saw a couple of years ago when I was redoing my kitchen and I had some 1 1/2″ solid oak countertops to cut to size. I found a good deal on a Bosch Pro saw, and I used the offcuts from the countertops to make some shelves, a knife block, a workbench screwdriver stand and some other little bits and pieces. That saw easily paid for itself within the first week I owned it.
Thank you for the great knowledge. It sure helps remove the guessing.
I would replace the cordless drill with a sander. I can nail or clamp down just about anything to hold until the glue sets. But then the finishing work is the most tedious and that is where I would put the power. The end result will be finished and have a greater look and feel if you put the time and power into the detail work.
I’ve never met a pro that would run a circular saw over a worm drive saw. I otherwise agree with you, maybe an impact over a drill.
To me, tools are what real friends ( if they do exist) should be like. You never see them for ages and one day when you need their help, they are there for you.
@John Couch Not only that.They can also hurt you and damage the material. They generally are pretty useless.
My problem is that tools hide when I need them and appear when I don’t. That’s why I have 15 tape measures and maybe any given 2 at hand.
@Chandan Acharya I am so glad for you
You’re right. I’m gonna tell my friends that they’re absolute tools
Well said Sir.
That is a great statement/observation.
I am stealing it.
Another great video. Thank you. But I just watched your video about the five-in-one tool, why wasn’t that included as a most important tool? Also, I have given up on battery operated tools, especially drills. They are limited in power, in scope, and in time usage, as I keep replacing batteries every couple of years, which cost more than another drill. And I have yet to use a drill that is not within a few feet of a power plug. My dad‘s 60 year old corded hand drill still runs circles around any of the battery operated drills. And as to the question of no Chuck and burring out the top of a screw, I just pull the drill back and then it stops tearing up the screw head.
I totally agree that 2 power tools are sufficient for a beginner. I prefer a corded drill. I don’t use it often enough, so the battery is always dead on my cordless drill when I go to use it. Plus the battery pack needs to be replaced after several years. For the saw, 3 hand saws (with different teeth) and a budget Dremel multitool saw (corded) was more than enough for my needs. I think this is safer and easier to control for a true beginner. I eventually got the circular saw, but I am too scared to use it. It’s still sitting on my shelf after 4 years. In 2021 I hope to take a big step up and actually use the circular saw to cut wood. I will watch your tutorials many times first! 🙂 Previously, I have been able to use free or cheap furniture and fix joins/supports or modify them or use dimensional lumber with 1 free cut per piece from Home Depot. The hand saws were sufficient in the few cases when I need to cut a piece myself. I am a woman DIYer and am not above admitting that I am scared of that circular saw. ;-P
You will also need a First Aid Kit and an empty tin can so that you can shout or curse in after you have cut or fasten one of your fingers or thumbs.
After doing a short binging of your videos, you’ve helped me understand my tools better. AAAAAAND you are absolutely correct on your 2 power tools! I’ve been killing myself with hand sawing everything, and since I got a circular saw, my life and cuts have improved immensely! Thanks!!!
Hey,
Thanks for your good training series. I think are among the best of this kind.
I have a question: I can’t find Makita 5007F in Europe so I look to MAKITA 5008MG, Makita HS7601, and HS7611K.
I can’t decide what to buy, so I need your advice.
I know that the answer is … depends! 🙂
I intend to use it for very exquisite and quality work, even if I’m not an experienced carpenter.
My goals are high :).
I’m not ready to buy very expensive stuff.
Please advise.
Thanks in advance.
20 volt max is 18 volt nominal an 18 volt tool is also 20 volt max my 24 volts is a 12 volt .
What’s wrong with 21 volt drills?
How about a 5 needed tool collection for van interiors. To build cabinets, shelving, beds, drawers , cabinet doors, and things of that sort. Keeping in mind there’s not a lot of room to store tools in your van when you’re turning it into an RV.
Circular saw, drill, jigsaw (or sawzall for more power/danger), impact driver, oscillating multitool (for sawing when the other saws are obstructed from getting at it…also usable as a scraper and sander). Cheap drill bits and driver bits are OK, but pay for decent carbide saw blades and decent hole saws. I personally go corded on the 3 saws, cordless on the drill/driver.
Carpentry is about THREE things! MEASURING, Cutting, and Fastening. Love your videos, they are very helpful.
@DH Blan when that happens you just have to glue the cut piece back on the end and start again
OK I AM JOKING!
@Martin think thrice, measure twice, cut once. This was the dictum of an old, English builder of small but rugged, crab boats fishing in the short steep seas of the English Channel.
Keep in mind the title keyword here. POWER tools… There are also a handfull or two of other tools we use, pencils, speed squares, string lines, levels, etc.
@BulldogDon A Hmmm. Sorta. Actually pretty nice in a few limited situations, but they’re not really tape measures.
@Bob Z Yep they got them. Laser tape measures. AS far as I’m concerned more problems then they’re worth. Yes I’ve tried them. By the way when I was in Greece a few years ago many of the construction workers I saw there were still using a piece of string and their framing looked perfect. Doing the math on paper was probably a bit tuff though.
If somebody is a serious DIY-er then he needs more then 2 power tools. Over the time I acquired a lot of tools both electric and air operated and most of them I consider as very valuable. Sure you can get around with none of them but your life will be much harder then. The very same can also be said about the 2 power tools that are listed here – technically you don’t need them either – use hand saw, screwdrivers and hammer instead.
My experience is that any universal tool that performs multiple operations is inferior to few specialized tools and if you’re doing a lot of stuff in your house by yourself then you should invest in multiple number of good tools.
My current project for instance is bathroom remodeling (that I’m doing completely by myself) would’ve cost about 30K if I hired professionals while I’m spending instead close to 5k so I did not hesitate to buy as many tools for job to be done faster as I needed, since I will still be in gain.
That’s a good presentation. Of course, there’s a bit of hyperbole in it, and most DIYers don’t need to limit themselves to just two tools, but it’s a fun and interesting conversation to have nevertheless.
Woww, an amazing video
Yup, I also learnt woodworking lots and carpentry from
AMUSINGWOODWORKING COM
Wondering about battery power for cordless tools. Are 2Ah adequate?
Love your videos so much. Thank you. Would you please do a video on why drills or drivers should be bought in a 1/4” vs 3/8” vs 1/2” size please??
Impact driver and jigsaw would be most flexible. VCG group proved impact driver is vastly superior to drill drivers in every task. You can get lumber precut at the lumber yard. And jigsaws can crosscut and longcut with guides.
Duct tape takes care of all your fastening needs.
all you need is a drill, then turn it into a jigsaw, circular saw, sander and router.
Interesting. Agree absolutely on the cordless drill/driver. I’d have a random orbital sander next – really does allow you to achieve great finishes. I’ve always sawed by hand but currently debating a circular saw over a mitre saw. Leaning towards the latter but this may influence me. Cheers!
circular saw, cordless drill, and router for decorative touch. I built a pergola with the first 2. I used a table saw for some cuts but i could have used a circular saw.
This hits the nail on the head. When I did my first few jobs years ago those were the only power tools I owned. I used miter boxes and a variety of other old hand saws and tools that I got from auctions, ect. but they got me through. I’m actually grateful for that experience because like anything that you start off not having the best of the best equipment for it makes you think of what you’re doing a little bit more. As a contractor with way more tools than I probably need now I know that the main reason that I own most of the power tools I do is simply to increase efficiency and productivity. It’s not that I couldn’t complete most tasks with fewer tools, it’s the fact that I rely on getting jobs done quickly and efficiently for my income. For the home owner/ DIYer shaving an hour off of your project by spending $1000 in tools doesn’t make a ton of sense. Who am I to judge though? Live your life. lol
I agree that those two are important but a long time ago I switched to left handed circular saw even though I am right handed. I never did get why circular saw were set up with right handed blades. I find I can use a left handed saw much easier and accurately.
Drill and Circular saw with jig.
I found that when you work with limited tools like only these two tools , you work with your head more than power tools. to get exact measurements and pieces with circular saw takes time and practice. message is true but now days you see every channel or youtuber has 100K worth of tools and at the end he build a chair, cabinet … and things like that.
Appreciate your videos. Thank you.
if you get too many tools the wife or boss will expect something to get done.
Agreed.
I built a custom cabinet and wardrobe last month. The only power tool i used was a drill to fix it to the wall.
The rest was hand tools.
“I only need 2 minutes to tell you which tools are essential, but let me take 10 minutes to explain”
harsh
Add an oscillating tool! It’s great for everything
Do circular saws come in right and left hand configurations? I am lefthanded and it seems like using one righthanded would be less awkward.
I agree, but I use my cordless impact driver as my drill/driver. I haven’t used my drill in a couple of years.
I also have a cordless circular saw. As a DIY guy, i don’t have to make scores of cuts in a row, so I don’t run out of juice before the job is done.
YOU ARE ONE SMART COOKIE !!!!! GREAT INSIGHT. GREAT VIDEO. GREAT GUY !!!!
I had a helluva good Makita worm drive or, “hypoid gear” saw that did some work for me in the early 2000’s. I got a Porter Cable standard corc after that with a real nice thick aluminum foot that I really liked because the chunky foot made it really glide along a straight-edge nicely. Good bevel on it too.
Now THIS is an honest video. I use my rafter square as a guide all the time.
I really want those power tools of you 😭😭 I cant sleep at night thinking how can I have that 😭😭
I’m a petite female with small hands so those 7″ circular saws intimidated me to hell. Good thing I saw a Bosch 12V 4′ power saw thats just right for my grip.
You go girl, stay safe!!😁
How do you make a perfetly round handle or 1 meter perfectly round wood stick with just what you recommended?
My guess before i watch: drill and circ saw
@natas0733 yeah id prob rather have an impact too
Me too. But i chose impact driver. Can drive lags and still drill holes.
Thanks that was useful
I used to have only a corded drill with no clutch, no impact driver. Some days, I didn’t feel so fresh, and after drilling pilot holes while feeling like crap, I reached for my driving bits, and I realized that switching out drill and driver bits was just a bloody waste of time. The tedium tired me.
So I got a corded impact driver. Boy, it was a game changer. Drove in screws like crazy. I thought I would be unstoppable. Then it happened. A sluggish day. I thought things would be different. After drilling pilot holes, I wearily reached for my impact driver. And I realized that I needed to take out the cord for my drill, and put in that for the impact driver.
I haven’t been doing a lot of DIY since then. It was just a pain. So, in my opinion, you need three tools for DIYing in wood. Circular saw, cordless drill, cordless impact driver.
Hopefully I can afford new tools soon.
I like how you advocate pre-drilling. Most “experts” will tell you it’s a waste of time, until their decks have to weather a few years and everything splits along the grain around the bugle beads.
I would choose the same two as well, but if someone is planning to do a screw-heavy project or generally use a lot of screws the next one I’d buy would be an impact driver. As someone who drives a lot of screws my wrist thanks me for using one. Plus, they often come in a set with a cordless drill.
Hey DIYers, ready to notch out some baseboard molding and then secure the end back to the wall? No problem. Just go grab your cordless circular saw, cordless drill, some screws and a lot of wood putty. And when you’re all finished up just make sure to put a large bookcase in front of the botched job so no one sees the disaster! Haha
I don’t know much about tools, but, I’ve seen dudes fight over a 4 foot level.
I have a Ryobi ONE tool collection now, mainly because they’re in Constructicon colors. I NEVER even considered a tool set(other than say, a set of metric/standard wrenches and sockets) in my LIFE…until this year, when I had to repair the kitchen floor in my man cave.
Well, that was predictable.
You’re exactly right, though.
Yes Sir, Makita everytime, 100% agrees with you.
Do you think it’s ok to have a corded drill instead of a cordless one when working statinary? At least at the beginning? I am asking mainly because I have a corded drill and hoping to buy a circular saw soon. I hope to at least get started with these and maybe add more in the future.
What about the measuring tape ?
I have a Makita cordless drill and love it. I’m needing a cordless saw so what brand is best there?
Been doing construction and handyman work for at least 30 years tools hammer circul saw reciprocating saw, jig saw drill ,driver belt sander,and
Only two tool?? Blasphemy. You need ALL power tools.
I think your right about circular saw and cordless drill. The multi tool is becoming more and more the go to tool of choice for renos as well. Might even call it no.3
I’d say it is indeed my number 3, Mike. I did a whole video on it!
Keep your skill saw, as useful as it is I’ll take a table saw.
To explain, a lot of cutting a skill saw does a table saw and hand saws with a miter box can do, but for finish carpentry a skill saw can’t do what a table saw can. Rough carpentry, skill saw all the way.
My 2 are 18v combi. drill & multitool , both blue-bosch 🙂
going to guess drill and circular saw, both plug in not battery for power and tool life
Couldn’t an angle grinder be used like your circular saw and then also be used for other things as well it would seem to be a more versatile to my opinion
All depends where you live….If you live in big city, apartment you dont need Circular Saw for sure, you need Rotary Hammer and Jig saw much more, if you want do sometime with your car – angle grinder. IF you really really want just two tools for DIY user who use powertool 2 times in year ….Cordless hammer drill and mulitool – to cut something.
Great Info!!! Thank You Sir!!! 👍😎
I totally agree with circular saw and cordless drill. I prefer my venerable old Skil worm-drive saw to the Makita, but that is just personal preference. I use the DeWalt 20v Driver Drill. I have several other DeWalt 20v tools and love that they share the same batteries.
The most important tool is your brain🤤
I agree as a DIYer I started to get a big excess inventory, I now donate what I replace.
Sawzall is a must
I knew this answer before I started the video
The clutch limits torque. It’s the electric brake function that stops the motor when the finger is removed from the trigger. Most all good miter saws and some circ saws have a brake.
Just what I needed! Thanks for posting this.
I much prefer the impact to the drill. I’m not sure what a drill can do the impact can’t. I’ve purchased multiple Makita 18v drill and impact sets over the years. The impact gets used 10-1 over the drill. I have quick change drill bits and even hole saws. The impact is more compact and when using a hole saw it won’t grab and wrench your wrist like a drill, it will just go into hammer mode. It’s way better for lag screws or bolts. It’s definitely my #1 tool, and I agree on the circular saw as #2. You can almost build anything with those two tools, and you can demolicious almost anything with a sawzall and a sledge hammer.
you aut to try cutting a stud with a sawzall then you go to put the stud in place and you need to take an 1/8th inch off the end. SAWZALLS ARE NOT RECOMENED FOR FRAMING!!!!!
Just sent this video to my nephew. We both learned quite a bit from my father before he passed away, and he was asking about tools of his own. This is pretty good advice. My father never used a circular saw. He loved his radial arm saw and later added a power miter saw. So my experience with a circular saw is limited. You really need some decent saw horses and some training on how make long, straight cuts. The cordless drill is a winner for sure. For many use cases I’d rather have 2 cordless drills – one to drill and one to drive – than use one of those drivers. The drivers are good for heavy driving work but will ruin your work if you’re not careful.
As someone new to woodworking I found the mitre saw the easiest to use aside from a cordless drill. But do think a circular saw and cordless drill are essential and versatile tools.
Thank you. Very insightfu for a starting DIY-erl! 👍👍
Thanks. Yeah, those power tools are! 😅
Stunning beauty! 😍 🔥💋😘🥰
Do you have equivalent recommendations for the supporting hand tools list?
I would get a cordless hammer drill since it can double as a normal drill
Very well said.
“You may have trouble convincing me, but I’m always open to suggestion”. That is the right attitude for a person of your insight, depth, and clarity. At least half of your comments are things I have thought and dealt with, and learned over the years. What’s really funny is that you look like my family in a general sort of way. Keep up the good work.
Humor aside…another great video. So much familiar experience, viewpoints and analysis. I am going to make your videos required for my crew.
How many tools do you need? One more…..
One DIYer I’ve seen constantly uses a mitersaw and a driver/ drill
Loose the power cord and go brushless motor
Logical and honest- Great post! The folks who buy every new product on the market are being PLAYED by the market.
I just got my first drill and it’s 12 volts though😔 I love it so far but hearing you say 18v makes me think this won’t be sufficient enough. It’s just I have no idea what I’d need and to my inexperienced self it feels amazing to use as I have nothing else to compare it to but I guess as a first time DIYer it’s good enough for now.
By far the best and most powerful circular saw ive used was a skilsaw worm drive in a big cast aluminum casing and was long as a oscillating multitool to fit that large motor and worm drive. Thing twisted your arm around hard with a tap of the trigger
“I have all these tools at my disposal, buy you as a DIY only need a drill and circ. saw” I decide what I need including a drill, driver, miter saw, circ. saw, jig saw, recip saw, oscillating tool, etc.
A portable table saw and a 12″ compound miter saw…Because anything else your neighbor should have.
😂😭😭🔥My dude.. you play it smart and save money. 💰 while having a beer🍺 all at the same time.
That was hilarious, true, but hilarious.
lol
What about a, if I could only own four power tools video? What two tool would you add, a impact driver and oscillating tool?
I don’t have the problem of tools sitting around collecting dust. In fact, if I don’t have even the most random, obscure tool with me on a given day, you better believe that is the one tool that I absolutely need to get the job done. I’ve been burnt by that several times.
While I appreciate what old time builders could do before power tools, those tools do exist now….so use them. I’ve done things the hard way with hand tools or improvise with a less desireable power tool. And I’ve done things the easy way with the ideal power tool. Give me the easy way every time.
Good video as always. …. a jigsaw does also have swivel base, allowing cuts at 45 degrees 🙂
Very rarely in a 30 year career, but when you need a curved and angled cut it’s the best option e.g. scribing a panel under a curved sink.
Did you ever try to use it that way? It will produce angle somewhere between 15 & 75 degrees. By the way I’m not cheap and all my tools are professional grade ones.
plane and or belt sander
Your absolutely right. They are the tools I bring on every job. Milwaukee battery circular. Dewalt cordless drill. Tomorrow I have a new Milwaukee impact coming.
hand tools for me : Circ saw and drill driver – shop tools : Router with table and Radial arm saw
totally agree with these two items ..
I admit, if I see a good, cool, or new type of tool I buy it, but so many times I have said thanks to that tool that it’s been sitting in the tool box for a few years made my life so much easier or able to repair what I needed, and even for that one time the tool was worth every penny.
When one gets older & the body is wearing out more power tools is the answer.!
Exactly why I’m looking at a cordless impact wrench
If you are just starting out, the cordless circular saws are way nice. Just get the same model as your cordless drill for interchangeable batteries. I prefer Milwaukee with the 5 year guarantee, and the compact head 1/2″ hammer/drill driver, and their 7 1/4″ saw. Watch for deals at Home Despot and you can get both for less than your first born male child.
I have a worm drive skil saw that basically has no limitations when it comes to functionality. I could build an entire house with just my saw a hammer and the drill. So many tools will make things more convenient and faster but simply knowing how to use your core tools is the most valuable
I have that exact Makita 😀
I started with a drill and a saw older than me. Both were free. But as an “pro DIYer” I have a massive amount of tools that never get used. SMH.
What about Duct Tape and Bailing Wire? They’re essential tools, right?
Ad to the drill, wire brushes. Great for things you can’t cleen up any other way.
Two very important tool investments are a jigsaw and the Kregg pocket hole jig. With a variety of jigsaw blades cutting plumbing pipe, metal and wood is easy. I just built an 8 ft vanity in my master bath.
Okay video, but it took over 2 minutes to get to the point of the 10 minute video. He rambles too much.
I can’t disagree with you as you have way more experience and I am not even close to a professional. But I love to tinker, and i have acquired some tools as needed, but I have done without. Not having a table, or stand, was a huge drawback using chairs lol. I totally agree on the drill, and i do love my impact drill, it is awesome. Have a drill bit in the drill for piloting, and a bit for a screw head in the impact. I used one for awhile and having these two are great. But a circular saw was not one of the first tools i bought. I actually bought a cheap tile saw and put in a small wood blade and used that, still not an early tool. When i needed to cut plywood more, and cutting boards for a deck, and not having power handy, i finally broke down and bought a cordless circular saw. I found i used a really nice irwin handsaw for every cut, way better than the handsaw’s i previously used as a kid. I had to think back on the tool i bought, which was for a task i just couldn’t keep doing because it was so time consuming – sander. Probably not the most appropriate, but the most applicable was an orbital sander. I could sand a surface with low grit and work up to high grit, not the best way to cover huge areas but it beats hand sanding and can be used for fine sanding later. I agree, a circular saw is great, especially doing angles. I have a table saw i use on the ground now, and i cut angles with it, but for the shorter spans for those angles i use my circular saw, so i use them both. The circular saw also requires less setup, but the hand saw didn’t even require a fence, just time and patience, and for finer cuts – hand saw and sandpaper. If I had to do the projects over again, for my 2nd tool, i would have gone for either a 2nd drill or an impact drill. I was having some problems on 2 projects so i ended up piloting every screw hole, one the wood was really hard and i was breaking drywall screws, and on my deck i didn’t want to split the wood. I drilled at least 400 holes for each project, one was with one drill, the other i had the impact drill, and it was incredible. I still can’t believe i used chairs, handsaws, my foot, a square and some long wood, a knife and one friggin drill for the whole room. lol. ty i enjoyed your video.
Carpenter =fastening +cutting so you need to be a fastcutter .we need a cordless circular saw with a built in drill /??
Have both and use them all the time, have a few other that I wanted but I Gree with you on the drill and circular saw.
make a booboo with a skill worm drive your wellf—ked
I would much prefer a worm drive saw over a circular saw
for a jig saw, get an electric drill and a jig saw attachment for the electric drill and voila 2 tools without breaking the bank and if you find out you dont like the jig saw, you are only out $15 instead of $100
Boo! Table saws ROCK! Circle saws SUCK!
Yeah, you’re right, but it wouldn’t be as much fun! I just love unpacking new tools!
Excellent advice
Feeling smug. I live in a campervan and they are the only power tools I own/use…
Too much talk. Just tell us the 2 power tools needed.!
I’m struggling a little with what the 3-5 tools should be. I’m thinking Sliding Miter Saw and Router for the next step…
I like how you describe carpentry as cutting and fastening — puts your tool choices in proper perspective. Thank you!
Saw and a drill, save yourself ten minutes
Love my Bosch 12v drill and impact driver pair, gets used loads. And the Bosch 12v jigsaw. Bought a table saw as I need precise angles for a geodesic dome project I am going to attempt, but otherwise the kreg accu-cut track attachment for my circular saw is pretty good – the rip cut maybe not so much. Plus the table saw really needs an out feed table, so the circular saw plus track and a decent work table would be more useful much of the time. Also got a cheap mitre saw for speed, but needed a stand for it so maybe not such a great idea.
What about a small jointer/planer combo machine and a power sander?
My hardest part of any job is loading and unloading my tools. I can barely leave the house to meet someone for dinner without at least my drills and a tape measure.
I’m one of the few carpenters that keeps my angle grinder close. I use everything.
This video could’ve been 3 minutes
New sub I appreciate the way you explain to us newbies
I can do most jobs with a sharp spoon
As long as I’m well caffeinated
…yeah…I use a knife and fork …you barbarian !
Works for me
@Jon Hohensee 😂🤣😂🤣
LIAR!!
i find myself using angle grinder a lot more, it grind, cut metal, cut tiles, sand, carve wood, polish, wirebrush, belt grind knives, maybe because im just few weeks old in DIY game
Very nice information and clear explanation.Now I have idea wich tool I will provide if I will comeback to my home.Thank you very much! Watching from Riyadh KSA.
Hand saws are dangerous! I think they should call them “finger saws”!
Makitas outperform all other power tools in welding too.
Yep that’s it cut and attach cut and attach.
3rd ? Lol
Good tips started with Saw and drill and just stepped up to a router.
Thanks for your video. I’ve just purchased both on Amazon. I’m in the process of purchasing tools I need to fix up my daughter’s family’s home they’ve had for 60 years.
Sawzall for tear down.
Yeah, and now circular saws come battery powered. Light weight, stop on a dime, and nowhere near as scary as a corded version. But, always make sure the guard is working properly before pulling the trigger. (Not being that bright a person, I am still lucky to have my right leg.)
I do have a circular saw, 7 1/4″ blade, but sometimes I need to cut 4×4 and would like a larger blade. What would you suggest?
two cuts.
agree i have band saw mitre saw bench planner two orbital sander,s four corded drills and and 3 battery drills pillar and lots more my go to is defo circular saw and any drill that is to hand built sheds work bench,s and lots more with these
1:50 I’m guessing power drill and circular saw.
Nailed it!
Go to 02:55
Then you can leave.
Thank you! So, when you recommend a cordless drill, you are not recommending an impact drill? A driver? a hammer drill? Just a normal brushless 18v cordless drill? Do you have a recommended brand?
Hitachi. The industry standard. Many of these have hammer built in.
I think this makes quite a lot of sense and more people (me included) should learn about patience and training their skills.
i didn’t think i needed a track saw until i got one.
excellent suggestion…..thanks a bunch
Re: Drill… would you recommend an Impact Driver/Drill combo or a Hammer Drill/Driver combo as a first tool?
Both are great, but which one should people get first?
Also… weird that you recommend Makita for the saw but not the drill. Why is that? Wouldn’t I want both Makita so I can use the same batteries/charger? 😳
also hammer drill over impact if you only have one. Impact will out perform drill when using bigger fasteners like lag bolts but drill is better all around. For ease of not having to switch from drill to whatever bit ex philips get a cheap 12v impact unless you have big fasteners then 18v
the circ saw is corded
Super useful video! Thanks a lot!
I’ve been thinking about starting to work with wood and I’d like to ask you what’s your opinion about a a small circular saw like this one:
https://www.dewalt.com/products/power-tools/saws/circular-saws/atomic-20v-max-brushless-412-in-cordless-circular-saw-tool-only/dcs571b
I ask because I’m planing on doing light work like shelves or small furniture and I think a small saw like that one would be better than the big one you talk about in the video.
What do you think?
Or a circular cutter and an impact driver with a chunk. Chunk can easily be switched.
Great video. I am spoiled by my impact driver, so I don’t use my drill for driving (glad it has a pseudo hammer drill function, though). I would agree that those two-ish tools are the core, but if you are investing in a lithium-ion platform for a drill (these are brand specific ‘platforms/ecosystems’ that we can get locked into), I would just go ahead and get the drill and impact combo set. Other cordless tools of the same brand can follow, so be careful what platform you choose. I do prefer a “framer’s” circular saw to the regular ‘motor on the side’ version though…much easier to get precise cuts.
I must say, I have a good number of tools but an air compressor is on my wish list…pneumatic nailing and particularly the ability to “brush off” (use air to blow off/out dust) is very appealing. A Festool (if you got mega bucks) or a Makita plunge saw that attaches to a rail, really does eliminate many tools, like table saws, panel saws in particular, and possibly circular saws and miter saws. Miter saws definitely pay off, if you are doing a lot of trim. I do think routers are pretty fundamental as well, as they can do things that really no other tools can do (admittedly some jobs that may not be needed by most people. But think about trimming laminate without one…are you sure you can do this OK with a plane?).
All that said, I think I have violated the purpose of your video in the intent to talk about what are the absolute minimum tools. I am just talking about the next few tools after that. ;^)
Do make a video on safety in handling circular saw.. 😁
I think you’re incorrect. The DIYer needs 3 at least power tools.
Cordless drill with an extra battery on charge, skill saw, and either a multi tool, also with an extra battery on charge or a grinder.
I have the first 2 and working on the 3rd.
I saw this video and went ahead bought my dewalt circular saw thinking I’m all set, because I already have a drill. Man how naive was I. Making straight cross cut on 2×4 is just too hard for me. Ended up getting a miter saw and I feel like for beginners building with 2x4s and the like, that’s perfect. I’ll try to practice my circular saw skills and use it when I’m better at it.
I would switch the skilsaw for a sawzall
What no pencil and tape?
I used to work drywall and every contractor that used makita switched to Milwaukee. Perhaps makita makes great corded products but their cordless drills blow, based on my xp.
I agree but I don’t have the patience for hand sanding so I would recommend an orbit sander as well
A skil saw and an orbital sander
Outstanding job!
Amazing! I’ve been telling my husband for years that all my Dad ever had was a circular saw and a mitre box for all his cutting needs. And my great-grandpa earned his living as a carpenter with all hand tools! Keep up the good work!
And your parents grew up with a 14″ B/W CRT television and your grandparents grew up without television at all. 🐱🐱🐱
I’d expand it to 3 tools – circular Saw, Drill and 6-pack.
Don’t drink and drive (screws)
The cord has been CUT .
Hi whats your thoughts on the ryobi +1 circle saw . As I was thinking of adding to my ryobi collection which is a drill, light and hover ATM.
Yep, I have to agree, considering you already have a hammer. Trust me, I have friends that don’t 😄
Well, there is a third needed, but the first two tools you suggest can make the third, which is the saw horse 😋
These new circular saws are making me mental! The “safety switch” or button will cause me to have an accident. The Skil circular saw I bought safety button is too far away from my index finger to hold both buttons at the same time. Or the saw is set up for the user to use both hands, NUTS! I need my free hand a lot of times to hold the wood I’m cutting or to keep my cutting arm/hand steady. I really can be trusted not to stick my limbs in front of the saw!
I’m off to the pawn shops to find me an older model without the “safety”.
For me it’s my impact my skill saw and my autofeed. I ain’t loose screwing under 55m not a chance ain’t nobody got time for that.
One very important tool we all need above all else, a brain. lol
I started with a sharpened potato 40 yrs ago, lol. For a newbie, I’d agree what you say but I do not think the quality of the DIY projects will be great…I actually dismantled my early DIY projects for the wood so I can build something better after I acquired some basic power tools and skills. Let’s face it, you actually do not need any power tools to build a great DIY furniture. It just takes time and patience, plus the skills and knowledge. But if you do it on the side, these power tools are the godsend gifts that I can not do without for furniture building…
1. Table saw
2. Planner/jointer (if you start with rough cut dried board, then planner is a must).
3. Router
4. Band saw
5. Sander of any type
For rough, outside projects, such as framing, decks, etc.. these additional power tools are great
1. Cordless drill
2. Cordless impact driver
3. Circular saw(corded or cordless)
4. Pneumatic nail guns, particularly framing nail gun.
It used to cost me an arm and leg to buy these things back in the 1980s, but can be had fairly inexpensive now. Happy DIYing…
If you do need to dismantle rotted deck/framing etc, a power reciprocal saw with nail cutting blades is highly recommended.
Miter saw is a must have tool, if you’re doing trim.
Compound or standard, pros and cons for both depends on what you mostly use them for.
100% agreed
Two power tools important to have are the Circular saw, drill and sawzall. Three, three important tools to have. And a multitool.. four. Four important tools to have..
Edit: I forgot to add a sharpened potato… 😬👍
And tools are always useful.. I started with a drill then a screwgun.. Then a circular saw ( bought Makita) Then a jiggy saw..
I replace the skill saw with a jigsaw.
Of course you need a drill.
I can do everything you can do with a skill saw with a jigsaw just a little bit slower.
But there’s things I can do with a jigsaw you can’t do with the skill saw.
Just my humble opinion.
Plus I’m too weak to use a skill saw.
I should get a mini one.
I bought that Makita 2 years ago and I never use it cuz I’m too much of a wuss
why an 18v cordless? IF you have a skilsaw on site, you have power, so why not a corded drill? cordless is nice and handy, but not really required. in fact, you don’t have to have a drill at all for many do it yourself projects, tho it helps it’s not required.
I’ve gotten by with these so far but I’m looking at getting a table saw. Is there a good safe way to rip lumber to narrower widths with a circular saw? It’s great for cross cuts and large pieces like plywood and things like that but if I need to rip it down to a fairly narrow width I’ve not figured out a good way to do it yet without losing a finger! Any suggestions or should I just make the leap and get the table saw already?
Imo, drills are so essential, no household should be without one, period. I don’t care if you can’t DIY anything, even just hanging a mirror, curtains, or a shelf can’t be done without a drill. It’ll save you time on any number of projects. The best saw could depend on your trade (framers and deck building might benefit more from a mitre, electricians and demo work would prefer saws all, etc).
Very informative as always. bob
Very informative as always
A quality jigsaw is vastly underrated!
Quick question, what tool (not power) can I use to figure out angles degrees for joints say for a pitched A frame for example.
Omg thank you for this video I got a drill / driver combo and was racking my brain for what I could use to cut that wasn’t too expensive. I was looking at Japanese pull saws! Now I’ll be buying the skil saw to stay in the same brand 🙏🏼subscribed!!!
A saw, a corded drill and a sander is about right. I will use pneumatic guns instead of a hammer because of arthritis, Can’t beat the nail in anymore. Besides, when putting up Hardie board, a hammer alone won’t do.
I agree with the two. Was amazed at what a good (18V Milwaukee) cordless drill can do. I rarely take out my ancient 1/2″ Wards (electronic speed control) drill. For tool #3, I went with a router. Rabbits, dados, and edging. With those things you can do some decent cabinetry using good plywood.
Add tools as they make sense and get quality appropriate to the frequency of use. Home remodeling work? trim nail gun saves huge amount of work. Demolition saw (cheap is ok) and oscillating tool gets to where your circular saw cannot.
I guessed correctly. Lol
I’ve been a carpender for 49 years and it takes time to master using tools , Askil saw is very versatile and very very dangerous in the untrAined hands , Be careful and be patient and listen to the safe use from a carpenter,
I don’t know if a standard drill can possibly be better than a quality impact wrench. You can drive with a simple adapter and the versatility of it the moment you want to say, change a set of tires, or do anything with stubborn nuts, IMHO makes it way more useful. If you have a brick house like I do you can even drill into concrete but then a hammer drill makes a massive difference and I’d say go for that instead of the wrench. But I dunno why you’d just get a drill when you can have impact and a drill.
Great video! BTW you look like William Zabka
Which makita combi drill to buy? Help please
I would have said a cordless drill with a hammer function.
Please help me sir
Can you say Christmas
Every tool has a specific purpose and it is the best for efficient, safe use. To claim only two tools are needed is ridiculous.
I agree a circular saw is indispensable but oddly my jigsaw gets more use I’d say.
Aapko mere video dekhana chahiea
I wish I could get a Makita tool that cheap. Same reason I have no cordless tools. Even though they’re convenient they’re just too expensive.
Multi tool also useful
Hey thanks for the info.. I’ve always had a fascination for tools since I was a little boy..I’m a definite DIYer and that’s it.. if it gets broken around my house I will have the tool to fix it.. I have a collage of tools and eager to show it off.. but my friends all get jealous so I keep my tool collection to myself..anyway Thanks again
So it’s skill saw over jigsaw?
Main 3 tools: Utility knife, tape measure, pencil.
Main 2 power tools: Cordless drill, jigsaw.
Main two power tools: angle grinder and a stick welding machine. Because you can cut and screw into wood by hand, but cutting metal by hand is a P.I.T.A. and duct tape works really bad on heavy metal constructs. 😁
Cordless drill and Bandsaw and lathe .. i need three not two ☺🕶
Just want to say thank you for the cool video. I am currently on reserach for exactly these two tools. Propably you have convinced me to buy a makita shaw. Drill and Circular saw are definitly good tools for starting out.
Im just a beginner and couldnt decide what type saw to buy, excellent advice straight forward- no bullshit.
if u have a kids hand u can hold the makita, i cannot
Any reason why you wouldn’t choose a reciprocating saw over a circular saw?
You can still get a straight cut with a guide. The cut just won’t be as polished and finished as with the circular saw. But the reciprocating saw allows for easy blade change. Fits into difficult areas, and is a good cross between mitre saw and circular saw.
I’ve used my drill on the fast setting with a carbide or Dremel attachment before on metal or wood even. Making a hole a little larger or cutting tubing etc
Ya you can even cut metal with a circular saw if you want! Siding or roofing, flashing or with a chop saw blade rod or bar
If you skillful enough, you can built up anything without any power tools.
Thanks for info
Thanks
Two coordinated arms with attached hands …
screw gun …worm saw….multi tool
At 60, I laugh with joy at this video. You must have been talking to my Daddy!! He was a wealthy fellow who never needed a repairman and built his own house, twice. Coping saw; learn to master it. Spoke shave, the same. He taught us the overall perspective and the detail/delicate work. He had a vast collection of hand tools, but power; only a circular saw and a half inch drill. He would have Loved You !
That was very interesting and I am sure your are correct, I see your argument clearly however you will never stop me buying tools!! Lots of ‘em I must have them even if they never come out of their boxes!
Some of the best times Dad and I have are tool shopping even ‘window’ tool shopping -;)
When I was a kid, I watched my dad build our wooden house with handsaw and hammer.
LOL, our family house was being built by parents/friends and whomever. I always stole nails/screws and a hammer and did my own modifications, I was about six.
Key with circular saws is using good blades. Worth the money.
The most powerful tools are the brain and the hands. Then the saw and the cordless.
I can’t stop buying tools
Well, I guessed correctly. Better than a circular saw is its near cousin, the track saw. To make you happy, the Makita track saw.
I got one for 5 bucks at a garage sale it’s awesome but old lol
Every job this 60yr old MiMi uses is a Jig Saw and a Drill👍
I guessed correctly the two tools (before he mentioned cutting n fastening), although I wasn’t quite sure of the brand/s.
Radial arm saw does a lot of functions with different attachments.
True, if i were to choose between circular and jig saw i would pick circular saw because it can cut clean and straight, exactly what i needed for my projects
Cordless power tools is the way to go
Holy shit that van would be a death trap if it rolled or experienced sudden impact. I’d wall that toolshed off from the cabin or secure the shelves with doors. Maybe I’m just paranoid.
I guess when some people read the title, “Only Need 2 Power Tools”, they became confused and started talking about squares, tape measures, and hammers. They’re mostly the manual powered variety, rather than the “tools that require electricity.” I’m going to confuse them some more…
I agree with your assessment of minimum required power tools. I actually gave away my old table saw. I have both corded and cordless circular saws. I have a variety of drills, corded and cordless, along with hammer drills. I have an 8¼” cordless miter saw as well as compressor(s) with a nail gun. More hand tools than I know what to do with, including manual miter saws, tape measures, adjustable hozendirfers, and various size hammers.
I found using my circular saws with clamped guide, I can cut a variety of sheet, post, and trim, very accurately.
I have two routers. One semi-permanently attached to a portable router table, and a smaller trim router with guides.
I have another small confession to make, I haven’t a potato sharpener or a sharp potato in the kit. I couldn’t fit it in the box with all those isenzingle clamps. 🤓😉
hi i stay in Uganda how can i get such machines
Well said Boss..as a newbie thats what I did..thanks for sharing..more tips please👍
I’m looking for a first saw to do some small woodworking projects. I’ve used most power tools before but never a hand circular saw. The thing just looks intimidating to me lol. But you brought up good points. I think the intimidation factor is why people want to think they can just go with a jigsaw.
I agree that those 2 are the first buy tools you absolutely should have. But I would extend the essentials a little bit.
You’re most likely also going to want to do some sanding, so a random orbital sander and maybe even a belt sander.
Next thing I’m including in the list is a Kreg pocket hole jig. The reason is as a novice you want strong joints but don’t have the skill to do wood only joinery techniques, so pocket hole joins are strong and easy for a novice.
Next might surprise you, but a thickness planer is also imo essential, unless you can buy joined and planed wood, but even if you can the price goes up. Still I think this heavily depends on what you’re going to build. From the start if you know you’re going to be building a lot of stuff for years to come, get a planer. Otherwise just buy planed wood.
It’s a bit unfortunate that as a new woodworker without luxuries like a miter saw or a table saw, you will start your journey having to use a circular saw which is relatively harder to use than a table or miter saw.
Wow, this is really valuable piece of advice! Thank you for sharing it with us!
Another underutilized tool is a small table saw. If I had to, I could do an entire trim job using nothing else. I’ve even used it to cope!
As a 30-year journeyman carpenter I find that Impact guns are overused. They certainly have their place, but when not used carefully they can do damage ( stripped threads, snapped screws, e t c.). If I had to choose between a cordless drill and an impact, I’ll take the drill every time!
i knew the anwser but that guide trick was bitchen thanks for the vid
I have a big drop saw, hand saw, drill driver and impact driver. The last two 18Volt…. wow. My productivity has multiped by HUGE amounts, and I love my carpentry once I purchased the last two. (quality gear) that latter two, I do not regret one bit. I have a cheap circular saw, but the drop saw is much cleaner and square. Agreed Circular saws are dangerous and you really need a couple of saw horse et al….that is about it for me, a qualified tradesman yes… but not a carpenter…but now get LOTs of projects started and finished quickly enough to enjoy jumping across to the next one, while the creative juices are still circulating, so loving life at last!!!
RD
Good advice
For working on plywood only can I get away with jigsaw instead of circular saw?
The man, thanks bro, i always buy a bloody jigsaw when I just need to buy a skillsaw, im going out to get those 2 right now
buen video, tienes toda la razon con estas herramientas basta y sobra, pero en el camino te llenas de otras tantas que como dices se quedan en el taller llenandose de polvo, saludos desde Peru, ( good video, you are absolutely right with these tools, enough and plenty, but on the way you fill up with many others that, as you say, stay in the workshop filling up with dust, greetings from Peru)
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BGPJtTKmMLM
Τhis one I mean.
No not that big circle cutter but the small one that you change the disc for metal or for wood or even mar me it is smaller and here in Greece we call in translation corner wheel it has a small circle safety for the disc and you grab it with a hand tool in the holes to loose and tightening the disc
WOW!!! This is just the video IN DEPTH INFORMATION I was looking for. I am a NOVICE DIYer and I wanted to START a power tool collection. I bought a circular saw and air machine already. The air one is for the hubby and tires. So, I was trying to figure out which drill/impact driver or hammer drill I should get, to get the most bang for my bucks. So, THANKS💜
I have 7 tools and I too agree that a circular saw or skill saw with a drill are the two must tools to have. My detailed sander broke and I was shopping for a new one when I discovered oscillating multitools can also sand. I bought a Genesis 1.5 amp multitool for $32 which was the same price my old sander cost. I recommend a multitool for a third tool for starters as it is a jack of all trades.
There may be only two crucial tools, but there are only three types of carpenters–Those that can count and those that cant.
Most tradesmen I know are honest. The key is finding them. You are one.
Spot on advice, I’m a 74 year old Mother / Grandmother, I love my DIY and yes my main tools are combo 18volt cordless drill / chop saw, plus hand saw.
Hi Miss Hall, I’m a 55 year young mother/grandmother as well.
My go to tools are the 20v DeWalt Impact drill & Skils circular saw
Since the introduction of you tube
I feel like I can do EVERYTHING
Hence beginning MANY projects in my home –
when I was younger – finishing only
a few – I was working & raising kids – now retired
I sure am glad I looked out for myself
I do have more appreciation & patience now
With a better outcome in completing my projects.
Stay safe😁
Thank goodness I found this. I was overwhelmed. We do have lots of tools already and my husband thinks we need a table saw and a brad nailer for one project so he’d rather get a pro to do it but hiring pros for small projects is really difficult bc they only want to do big projects.
Pros charge at the minimum of $500 for a small job here (A few hours tops). If it’s a whole day job expect to pay $1K+. It’s better to just try and fix it yourself. It’ll cost the same and you end up owning powertools for future repairs.
Excellent advice. Is there an option for chordless circular saw as well? Or can I use an angle grinder as circular saw.
How to get the drywall anchor out when it sunk inside the wall
If you install table saw with properly and precision… You almost not need planner … Just piece of sanders manually
Thanks for the tips! If you want to go the slow and steady route, just get a good ol’ fashion saw. You’ll make some gains on your arms with all the wood cutting. 🙂
Thank you for the simplicity. Do you have any recommendations on smaller saws? I’m looking to cut popsicle sticks, without them exploding, and minimal deburr for my niece’s safety.
I always loved woodworking as a hobby. As a teen I just had a hand saw and a hammer and that was fine. In my twenties I upgraded to a circular saw and basic drill and built lots of stuff. Now in my early thirties I bought a jigsaw and a sander just to refine my work a bit.
Yes, I preferred the carbide-tipped potatoes too, peeled though. But seriously, I used exactly those two tools for over a decade(plus a miter box, 10″ crosscut saw, and sandpaper) and built over 50 items in my apartment woodshop: platform desks, shelving: closet, kitchen, bathroom, hallway, bookcases, my bed, bedside table, foot benches, banquet, writing table, side tables, waste basket, stereo component rack, TV platform, bike racks, speaker stands, monitor stands, computer wrist pad+keyboard platform, planter boxes, desk caddies, storage boxes, many many small projects, etc. etc. I just bought S4S lumber and designed to hide the end grain. Or covered it with edge banding using pine lattice, + glue+painter’s tape. Then, I bought a miter saw, and then a table saw, and a hand plane, and chisels, and more hand planes, and expensive measuring and layout tools…
I just bought a Bosch jigsaw ($40) and impact drill ($60) today before even watching this. I’m glad I made the right choice.
It’s OK to talk about 18 volt drill, but why forget to mention at least 2 Amp Hour batteries?
would you recommend a compact circular saw?
There’s more versatility with the standard 7 1/4…
As a DIY’er, I definitely agree about those top two, but as I’m starting to build my collection of tools, I’d be interested in seeing what comes next? Maybe a top 5? What’s the third-most important thing? Orbital sander? Jigsaw? Basically, once I’ve saved for and bought the first two, I’ll have to save for a third.. what should that be? And then the fourth?
From what I’ve been doing over the years (with borrowed tools and hand tools) I think the Orbital Sander and the Jigsaw would definitely be in the top 5.
Thank you for the quick reply, and I’ll be looking forward to that video! 🙂
I’ve been contemplating my second purchase (first was the cordless drill, of course) for months, but since I am currently fixing some shelving and have been doing a ton of (less than straight) hand-sawing, I’ve been looking at saving myself the pain and choosing the circular saw as my number two. I think you’ve pushed me to go ahead and buy one tomorrow. Will just have to choose between the bigger and twice as expensive, or the smaller one available. 😀 (am now “stuck” in the Ryobi cordless universe, so those are my choices locally)
Thank you, Arni! I’ll be doing another video soon called “the next 5 power tools you need.” That’ll provide some more advice in the topic. But I’ll go ahead and say, you’re already pretty close to my picks 🙂
Impact driver all day
I am the repair guy at home for my family. When i was faced with that choice (since im getting older and handling screwdrivers and a handsaw for everything was becoming sloppy) I agree with the cordless drill but what i have instead for the circular saw is an angle grinder. They now have these blades for wood and i just made a miter saw with it like the one in this video. How to Make Sliding Miter Saw with Angle Grinder – YouTube. The best part is i can still use the angle grinder for other things like cutting metal rods or sanding.
Great review for beginners… I Almost agree with Your tool choice… Me, a beginner DIY in woodworking, I started woodworking with manual hand-tools, manual hand saws, chisels, a stanley manual miter saw, a couple of hand planes (a #4 and a #5), an old hand-drill (with good drill-bits)… I would just add another power tool to Your list… a 1/4 th sheet electrical sander… not the round one, they do not reach square corners.. a simple one… and no need to buy special round sand-paper… the sanding results are great and most of us, beginners, start with cheap wood, or pallets… and a well sanded pallet looks great. Most of my little things I do in wood, no-one believes I made them with pallet wood, specially if I add a stain to them…
I can reinforce what you say about the safety rules. I nearly died when I was very young playing around with a circular saw.
fav tool,sawzall
I think your right that you can do most things with a drill and circular saw. However, I think one also needs a jigsaw and random orbital sander too. Then you can pretty much do anything. Sure you can sand with just paper but it will take a ton of time and most people will just quit.
I basically lived by these rules for 95 percent of my projects until I finally purchased a 1/4 in impact. Now I’m a 100 percent 1/4 in over hammer drill. The only thing the drill does better is finishing screws, but the impact does everything better and easier.
👍 agreed
can’t agree more
Bam! You hit the head on the nail. I moved out of my fully fitted 3000 sq. ft. woodworking shop for a 1 year hiatus away from my shop. I brought my circular saw, and 4 drills with bits and screws, and a few clamps. Then, first thing I made which is indispensable from there, is two saw bucks. They are the best sawbucks I’ve made after watching Next Level Carpentry’s vid on a better saw horses.
I’ve had that exact same experience Joel. Back when I left Gboro NC for the beach 👍
I agree, I built a balcony with just these and 4x2s (about 50 and 4x4s about 3 and 4×6 about 2). also foundations and concrete. the math was the challenge, the power tools were enough.
Honesty, caring, good content got my sub!
I think you fastened (nailed) it perfectly! If an aspiring work worker really wants to see if he is truly interested or has the abilities, starting with a few cornerstone power tools is a great way to test the waters. If it doesn’t work out, he’s not out a small fortune in tools he doesn’t use.
https://youtu.be/fmM09kbIzzA
if you too many, why not give to new
young guys.
Thanks so much for this 🙏 going to build a bunch of pikler triangles and was about to go waaaay overboard and was also stressing out about thinking I needed all kinds of stuff…
Excellent video, very helpful thank you.
thanks
Great idea.Thanks 👍
Is this Ned from the TryGuys
I have no where near the experience you do, but I’d say 4 tools- drill, impact, hammer drill, and circular saw. Those should handle pretty much any job you need to do around the house.
what about a sander
It would prob go third on the list. But I don’t put it in the top two because you can sand by hand with time, but clean cutting by hand is extremely difficult 😬
BRILLIANT.
True. But that’s just no fun man
ummm, “tape measure”…
No power in that tool, suga
Since I can’t cut straight, I had to get a table saw, compound miter saw, band saw, scroll saw, so on and so forth.
I’m a pussy.
I substitute circular saw with a jigsaw.
but a cordless drill/screwdriver is a life changer. Totally change the way I want to build stuff…
The only thing I have to say is- Never buy a power tool at full price. Wait for the sale.
Shot bro I think that you are onto it and your videos are cool good to learn from one another take care have a good day from a kiwi
I’m replacing my cordless circular saw with a corded saw … I’m always an extension cord away from an outlet, and the battery is just a pain. Looking at the Makita, thanks for the recommendation – and the video!
I love my corded saws, A. Tend to have so much more power, and longer lifespans!
yup… i use those two the most… still have not replaced my blade in 20 years on my skill saw… i have 3 cordless 18 volt drills..1 dewalt ,1 cheap less powerful harbor freight drill master and a ridged beast of an impact driver… i can build just about anything very fast…
Strongly agree.
Table saw and drill driver.
Thank you. I’m just starting out and will get a 18/20v cordless drill hopefully an impact bit.
Buy used tools if not secured properly because theft is high these days. Start with the right tools for what you need and sleep with them at night. Just a thought for beginners. Peace
This is okay for a handyman doing basic work (which is what a carpenter does anyway, just at a better level) but many want to do more precise work (say, make a cabinet). Apart from years of experience with hand tools, your basic choices are going to cause some grief. I agree they are a good starting point…
You pretty much nailed it. It has been my two tools of choice for years, even with a table saw and chop saw added to my collection.
Is this guy really a professional carpenter? Take a look at 3.33 minutes into the video and observe a “beautiful” cut with his 1200 years old circ saw which is so much off his pencil mark that it will need additional cutting or at lot of sanding to be close to square… But at least he has his massive tool belt on with a lot of hand tools which are essential when cutting plywood with a circ saw – the tape measure is essential (or at least some kind of measuring tool, but this one is the size of his hand), the hammer, something that looks like chisels and screwdrivers and a lot of other stuff…and you can’t even see what he’s carrying on the left side – but it makes him look like a “pro”…-ish…
Less Is More, or at least enough he seems to state – if you’re just a DIY.’er who doesn’t mind sanding a wood project for hours by hand, doesn’t care if he has to use a handsaw and a hand chisel for half an hour to do what a jigsaw could do in 2 minutes and doesn’t mind changing bits in the the clunky old Hitachi drill every 25 seconds when building a deck…
Pretty arrogant i’d say, and yet the guy poses in front of a messy (but seemingly arranged) heap of power tools behind him when stating that you only need 2 power tools if you’re just DIY – probably trying to show that a “pro” needs more tools than the primitive DIY’er…
I’m just a happy DIY’er who makes some money here and there when doing smaller projects for other people and by no means a professional – but I take great joy in having my different light weight Makita cordless tools which makes me able to drill, cut, sand, grind, route the wood/metal projects i do so they look good and works as intended – and I don’t have to mess with all the power cords that this “pro” has to with all his assorted old clunky power tools – and I don’t use a tool belt the size of Canada…
I don’t consider myself a diy’er, I am a certified, card carrying, backyard engineer. I can repair anvils, ice cubes, snowmen, broken promises and bent nails. I am open when I am here and closed when I am not, I have no phone and I only accept cash for repairs, American dollars paid in advance. beware of the dog, he is not people friendly.
what tools does a man need ? every tool he can afford to buy.
@Ben H Listen – I get excited when I’ve got a new box of screws, let alone a new tool. Bought some new clamps the other week – still smiling every time I use them…
@Miss Kim yes, hookers
And have enough space…
This is the way…
Usually just one more …
heres the douchebag “honest” guy. tell you you need 2 but buys so many tools
I feel like this video was recorded 10 years ago 🤣 the new 12v tools with brushless motors have plenty of power.
Tools are basically useless without a pencil 🤣
On steelworks: Angle Grinder & Welding Machine.
Skip to 2:56 for the answer.
I think you should change the name to Sharpened Potato channel.
Spot on. All my other tools make life easy. Circular saw and cordless drill are the ones that would be brought out first in a grab only 2 situation.
I’ve never been able to keep a potato, long enough to sharpen it! when I introduce the gravy they run away! When I get on the scales it makes me wish they were faster!
It really depends on what you do, it can seen really simple but when you start moving into more complex things 2 tools won’t cut it.
Having tools for set jobs speed it up as usually most hold ups are due to not having the right tools.
Great video. I agree, we all tend to get too many tools. When it comes to essentials, I would add a 3rd category which is a finishing surface (sanding) tool. I know that with patience sanding can be done by hand, but practically I think the benefit a good sanding tool brings is immense in ensuring you get to a great finish with much less effort. If I really had to choose only 2 I would choose the same, but I would push the budget and get an all use sander. Will be interesting to hear which sander you would pick (if you could only choose one)?
I have 4 circular saws, 2 19v craftsman and 2 7 1/4” Skil saws one for wood and one for metal. Drills….19 v craftsman, 18v Harbor Freight, 2 Black and Deckers, a drill-driver and a Half inch Stanley that I use for augers. I have three rollaways and just had a new tool shed built. Just started buying a bunch of pocket hole jigs and clamps, going to build a 8×6 foot shelving unit in the house then a closet shelf system in my closet.
I have to say they are two most used tools ever
I just bought Dewalts Flexvolt saw with a bonus drill and battery. $299, great deal.
I want one!
I splurged on 4 tools today… I got a corded drill (cordless are way too expensive), router, sander and at the last moment, I replaced the jigsaw with a circular saw. Hopefully, I made the right choice.
I have just bought a cheap small power saw from Lidl. It’s not got the fancy name but the all singing & dancing 7.25” saw has not been used in months. Yes it’s a max 1” cutting depth but it’s very rare that I need much more.
This video is like telling a woman she only needs two pairs of shoes.
Used to be, as a DIY’er, any job big enough that the labor saved would buy the tool warranted the purchase. Over the years, I’ve acquired a fair inventory of both woodworking and metal-working tools. Can’t say any of them really collect dust. Even my Miller AC/DC power source (TIG/Stick) gets used several times a year. Having these tools has allowed me to expand my projects and skills. My most recent project has been a complete remodel of the main floor of my house (thanks, COVID!), including making my own resin countertops (look like carrara marble). Tell me how to make clean radii in place of my trim router with that drill and saw and I’ll eat my words. And, now I’m fabricating a sliding floor to make usable dining space over the big hole that my spiral staircase eats up.
Great advice, thanks! I’ve been wanting to invest in a cordless drill but wasn’t sure what to look for. Now I have a better idea. But I will never get a skill saw. I’d saw my arm off for sure!
Still, as he had mentioned, the jig saw is much safer, and more budget friendly. Alot safer aswell, and it can do just about the same stuff as a circular saw or more.
Plain and simple… thank you… I think this video is helping a lot homeowners DIYers like myself with a carpentry inclination but not a professional at all.
Attach and detach
How about impact drills or chordless drill which is better.Thank you
Here you go, Vicente:
https://youtu.be/VQvDBmUtx6o
I couldn’t agree more, before I watched the video, I said, a drill and a circular saw. I prefer corded circular saws myself, and yes, Makita is the standard bearer, but Rigid has a lifetime warranty, so I use rigid tools.
I’ve got a Rigid brad nailer that just won’t seem to die, John 🙂
You forgot the impact wrench for when you get a flat on your work truck……
I agree EXCEPT, the diy home owner would be better to go all plugs after all you likely will not be doing work if the power is off and nothing like going out to start and not having a drill because it didn’t hold its charge. The tools may sit for a year or more. I think the circular saw is right on, and best saw I have used that was someone else’s that had some where was the Makita. Sadly I have my dads circ (monkey wards) that will only die with the power grid or the excessive neglect
Yes sir this is true . Pls share more skill sets on these tools on how to use effective on different surfaces
Thank you, SR! I definitely will 🙂
Mate, so glad I found your channel. I’m an absolute beginner and could not find any hobby courses to learn the basics. All your videos I’ve watched so far have been so helpful. Just want to say thanks. Felt especially reassured with this 2 power tools video.
That’s awesome, Vanessa! Thanks for watching! 😄
Ok guys! That’s it! We are on to you now! We know the 2 most important tools, so we will be waiting for you to tell us that you need more! LOL! 🤣
I’m just as bad! Must. Have. All. The. Tools! Lol
Lol
@The Honest Carpenter 😂
Just hear him out…
Absolutely agree 100%. If you’re fixing things and don’t require textbook perfection you don’t need anything else. Excellent advice for the DIYer, and that’s coming from someone who’s been in construction for over 40 years. You’ve truly earned your handle. Two thumbs up 👍 👍
Great advice. Thanks!
Sander ?
👌
A jigsaw in place of a circ saw? Sheesh. Jigsaws can’t even do what they’re SUPPOSED to do very well.
Thanks good advice
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Can I add one more.. An angle grinder.
Two cordless drills. Very handy for drill then drive. A hand-saw is ok / good for cross cutting softwood / medium wood framing. Panels can be cut at the hardware store if you know the dimensions and are prepared to spend $5.
FYI for us old folks. They make smaller circular saws. I have a 5 1/2 and a 4 1/2, both are ideal unless you are building a house. Also, the multi tool is the next best item to have. It can correct alot of little errors and such.
Why not a Li circular saw. . ?
Does the “corded Ones work better or something?..
Way more power and cutting capacity
May I ask what are the Brand, voltages and specifications of these wonderful tools.. Planning on buying them for home projects of my own. Live in Philippines here..
I wish I had watched this video first because I was set on getting a circular saw but then I let my brain take over and I spent hundreds more for a table saw for many reasons but mainly I wanted straight lines cut without clamping the wood and the rest…..I will say this guy has it right!!!! I’m a dummy and now I have to find a way to store my table saw in my storage closet and don’t know what is the right way to do this in the simple form of leaning it against the wall…..ugh
I take my new tools out of the box and get them covered in sawdust so it looks like I know what I’m doing but……shhhhhhhh
I totally didn’t know my circular saw shoe titled 🙈😂
Whatta video! No BS, straight to the point. Your channel is amazing! Congrats!
Thank you, Isaias! I appreciate the positive feedback 😄
DIYers gold standard
convert circular saw to table saw
I would get one of those kits with recip saw, cir saw, angle grinder, drill, impact driver. Angle grinder had many uses when shits in the way and doubles as a sander saw with recip and use it to prune branches aswell as cutting pvc metal wood
Volts are not power.
Skill saw and drill are hands down the most versatile set of tools you can own. But they’re is absolutely upgrades that can and should be made to enhance performance, quality and efficiency once you can afford it. I’ve always told my apprentices to buy 1 tool a pay cheque, doesnt matter if it’s a screw driver, chisel or chops saw, always build that collection so you have it when you need it.
If you can only afford one saw a circular saw is the way to go. I’d get an impact driver and a drill combo-way more versatility for screws and for drilling. .The next power tool to get is a multi-tool which is invaluable for a lot of things.
Great review. I was looking at getting a mitre saw. I think I’m going to replace my old Skill saw instead
I want to build myself some furniture and eventually a tiny house, but power saws terrify me. I’m 4 foot 8.5 inches and do not have a lot of upper body strength. I wish I knew a safe way around my limitations.
Nonesense. I NEED THEM ALL.
Ethan! I really enjoy your honesty! You truly live up to the name! Thanks for sharing all your knowledge!
Well that IS the problem with circular saws. They are dangerous. And heavy! Double trouble for a woman. A pro would’t be watching this video I don’t feel comfortable holding a heavy dangerous piece of equipment in my hand. What is a safe alterative for a hobbyist? Have they designed anything with safety feature and designed for not manly men to handle? I’ve up going to the shop because it was so crowded and nosiy but at least the equipment felt safe.
Thanks for the enlightenment.
I can now spend more on a better circular saw.
I was trying to squeeze in a circular saw, a jig saw and a router!
I 100% agree. Thanks for sharing.
Why is the video about DIY, but all the comments are about potatoes?
Good choices! Yep, you can do just about anything with these two tools, and most other tools can be considered as a more specialized variation of these two essential tools. But what would be a good third tool for the aspiring carpenter? I’m thinking maybe a router.
Great video!, anyone here use a variable speed angle grinder with a drill chuck and swap it out for a wood blade, diamond or fibre disc or polisher? The original multi tool IMHO. If you were really keen, you could attached nipper or recip saw attachment to the chuck.
Funny I found your post as I was thinking the same thing
I am a diyer. I made a purchase today of a Power tool but thought do I need it or Just want it.
Having a good Power tool does give an amateur diyer some extra confidence when tackling say a bathroom remodel etc. Yesterday I cut plysheets with a cheap circular saw and was amazed at how versatile that one tool is. Thanks for your post.
Drill or impact and table saw for furniture
excellent video. Good info. Keep em coming.
Excellent!!
My Essential list for 80 year old women… ..hammer, cordless drill, multitoo,l big ass sander…hand sander..miter saw..jig saw .i can not lift circular.saw.anymore and use it safely….and a.dremel..2 million screw.drivers..i have nail guns and i really love them..they are icing.
Im.thinking maybe one of those new mini circular.saws
@Renee Fraser I’ve had one of those 3 1/2 inch 9.6v makita saws since the early 1990’s. Amazing little tool, as long as you don’t try to cut too fast, it will sliice through just about anything!
I love my little Makita mini saw. I can’t use the big saws any longer, but I can go all day with my little Makita. Get one!
You might already have sufficient screwdrivers, but most people don’t. No matter what the project, there will be a screwdriver that you really need but don’t have. You can buy a set like this which covers pretty much everything:
https://www.amazon.com/Husky-Variety-Screwdriver-Set-25-Piece/dp/B08BHTPW1P
Give yourself a Makita 1″ hand held belt sander as a gift. I found it amazingly useful.
As a kid i imagined finding a hubby to.build with…im the one with the tool addiction.
And he has SOLD them twice…i.just yelled and then bought upgrades…lol
we dont say the tool word in my house..it doesnt go well for months for him.
I guessed the circular saw correctly.
But I was 50/50 whether he was going to go with impact driver or drill. Seeing how you can drill with an impact driver about as well as you can fasten with a drill. But I guess the ability to use hex bits and drill bits with the drill won out. Makes sense.
I dunno my diy hobby is being a mechanic. 🧰 👨🔧
I would say clamps and wood glue help all wood projects also, they literally cut work time in half ( especially for things like cabinets and different types of furniture.) Great video though, wish i had seen it $2000 sooner lol
im getting ready to to build a ton of storage shelving at my house, with just a drill and a circular saw.
Working on some projects at home and the info is very helpful.
Best recommendation I have heard! Every other channel is recommending 5-7 tools for beginners!
Thanks you.
See this after buying a 10pce Makita brushless 18v ltx kit. 🤔🤫🖕. DIY 👌
Very good advice! And very well explained the exact reason for selecting these two tools. You not only know your job but you are very good at explaining the technicalities of the job at hand. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
I would add here a sander and a router
I can’t live without my reciprocating saw.
So I should return the miter saw I just bought and get a circular saw, huh? Good to know 🙁
I agree that a drill and a circular saw will get you a long way. But with DIYer kits becoming more and more affordable, one shouldn’t go without the impact driver as well. It is lighter than the drill and it does a better job at driving in screws. Besides constantly replacing a drill bit by a screw bit will get on anyone’s nerves very quickly.
I have built a stone house I needed at least 3 tools. I would add an angle grinder and replace the cordless drill by a drill and hammer combi. If I could choose 4 then I just add the drill hammer combi.
I have done a huge amount of carpentry in my 68 years and I only used a circular saw once in my life. I don’t own one and probably never will.
Truth here but? Doing serious work around the house would have you missing fingers, taking forever (and seeing the wife’s suitcases on the porch). Make it six tools.
Circular saw, Do you recommend 5” or 7″ ? Thank you.
7 1/4
Sacrilege!… He who dies with the most tools wins!!!
(btw – if my wife sees this vid I will sue you! j/k)
just hope she doesn’t sell them for what you told her they cost 😬
Actually you don’t really need any power tools.there isn’t anything you do with power tools you could do with hand tools. Power tools just just speed up the process but don’t necessarily do anything better than high quality hand tools. People have built pyramids and cathedrals, mansions,castles etc without a single power tool.
I’m interested to hear what you think about track saws. I know the most popular one (Festool) is quite expensive, but there are cheaper and quality alternatives now.
I’ve not used one, but I wonder if they produce better results, especially for cutting plywood.
https://electrogardentools.com/p/best-track-saws-choosing-the-right-tool-for-your-work/#WEN_CT1065_8211_Powerful_Track_Saw_With_Compact_Design
Rubbish , I need more tools
Before watching the video I guessed the correct answer. He is totally correct. A circular saw, and a drill. That’s it.
Bought a Bosch corded drill nearly 40 years ago, which over the years was followed by a 1/4 sheet sander, circular saw, jigsaw and angle grinder. More recently a cordless drill has been added. And whilst the drill is used to drill holes I still use a Yankee Handyman 130B to screw the fixings in, It is generally just as quick and so much more satisfying. I can leave the drill bit in the cordless drill whilst using the Yankee to put in the screws.
I would add the angle grinder in as a third power tool – maybe not for carpentry but as a DIY, you end up working in all sorts of materials, and the angle grinder can deal with everything!
And as others have mentioned – as an all around DIY – a soldering iron I pretty nifty as well 👍
When I was a refugee on a Malaysia island, I only used ropes and a medium long knife to build my “house”. It survived couple bad tropical storms and a lot of heavy rains.
@Christoph Resmerowski think I was only one who got you clever Mr hanks reference
So, cutting and fastening.
I worked with a Filipino carpenter one day in PH. He had no power tools. He was amazing. I had a cordless drill and everyone watched me.
Are you at Pulau Bidong, Terengganu? Where you live right now? Are you fine?
@Don Nguyen where do u live now?
Most honest youtuber that i seen..
I’m far too apt to get lost in thought to be trusted with any type of easy repetitive circular saw process and keep my fingers…apart from those wall mounted rigs maybe. So I’d go for 2 drivers. One fitted with a countersink brad tipped bit.
You are half correct, the number one tool is a Makita plunge saw…..SP6000….not festool or dewalt that will break when u drop it.
I am in agreement. I have lots of tools that I use on my house and make money with on the side, but in my art classroom, at my full time job, I have just a circular saw and a drill for school play sets, storage, student projects, etc. Question: As a right-hander, why do you use a right-blade saw? You’re twisting your arm to look over at your line. I thought maybe it has something to do with visibility on bevel cuts, but those are such a small percentage of cuts, and the visibility for beveling with a left-blade saw is fine for how often its needed. I am very curious, because I have seen other right-handers choose this kind of saw, so there must be something I don’t know since I have pretty much only used left-blade saws. Even more baffling is left-handers who choose a left blade worm drive when the right-blade sidewinders are so affordable and ubiquitous and sidewinders have less twist on start up.
Without watching your choice I ws thinking circ saw and impact driver. Impact driver is more versatile than a drill IMO since you can buy hex shank drill bits and drive decent sized fasteners.
I found this very helpful. Thank you!
Hmm the only 2 tools I actually own 🤔
This is spot on. This is the way I started.
just the kind of advice many need
Thanks bruh.. Very useful info there.. 👊🏽
If I’m on a budget would you say I could swap the circular saw with a 1010w angle grinder with 115 mm discs
Can i use circular saw to cut a metal?
Hah… I think a chop saw is better than a circular saw because I am terrible at cutting stuff.
You could rebuild society with that truck……BTW. I built several of those album racks for Habitat for Humanity that show around 1:45ish. Haven’t seen video yet, I would say. 1st tool, strong 3/8 cordless drill (or 3/8 impact driver in 20w), and for second tool…Sawzall…Jigsaw?…I KNOW,a Good circular saw!! You can even make a shitty tablesaw out of one in a pinch…..or put a metal grinder blade on it.
CORDLESS DRILL + CIRCULAR SAW – that’s all
You remind me of actor Leland Orser, I saw him on “Revulsion” in the 73rd episode of Star Trek: Voyager, playing a murdering Hologram, sounds like him too.
Totally agree with you
I wonder what the Amish use? LOL
Tool #3 is YouTube
You sir, answered my questions as I thought they. I was just thinking about the jigsaw when you pulled it out!
So, am I a lazy rhymes-with-witch if i consider an orbital sander to be indispensable?
18v and 20v are the same buddy, all 18v are 20v max.
10 min video to say 2 things SMH
My first power tool was a 18v Drill, but my second power tool was a reciprocating saw, but in my defense my first project was a kitchen remodel, and there was a fair amount of demolition involved…
Through out the years that reciprocating saw has seen some action, but nothing like that of 3rd power tool has seen, a 7 1/2 circular saw.
good advise, thanks.
Power tools are something making a pleasurable hobby into a disgusting noisy & dangerous activity.
A total newbie, with no experience, I want to build small play homes and small storage boxes, shelves etc for storage in shed
Should I get wired circular saw or cordless I have makita 18v combi drill with a battery and charger already, Therefore I was wondering shall I get cordless shell and another battery as I already have charger or shall I go for wired one? Another tool I have is a cheap Aldi workzone mitre saw I picked for about £80 I think.
Miter saw is useful for installing laminated flooring and molding.
hi, can you please post a video on the special uses of the makita circular saw that you explained.
Three minutes before he gets around to saying you only need a “circular saw and a drill”. What about a pencil and tape measure as well? Video only for first timers to woodwork.
Umm…power tools? 🤔
Thank you for the information! Newbie here, both as a subscriber and in regards to carpentry. I have a question that may seem silly : is it possible to learn carpentry just from online lessons or do I need practical lessons in a class as well? I looked into joining a carpentry course but all the ones I found in my area were full time day courses, when i’ at work, so wouldn’t have been able to make it. And then covid came along as well. So would it be ok to learn the theory online and try and practice on my own, or do i need a real life experienced carpenter as a teacher to help me with the practical part?
@The Honest Carpenter thank you for the advice! I would definetly not try to handle a saw on my own 😅 will try some easier things to begin with and hopefully I will be able to find a proper class eventually. Thank you for all the info you are putting in your videos! Keep up the good work!
Hey Madalina, thanks for watching! I think you can learn a lot from videos and careful experimentation. If you really want to learn construction, eventually you need time in the field. Trade school classes can definitely help too, if you ever get the chance to enroll. BUT, if you’re on your own, PLEASE try to find someone to supervise early progress, especially with saws!! You don’t get two chances at some mistakes 😕
Great vlog, I guessed right the circ saw and drill and I love my Kreg jig. I put the saw in a Triton workcentre to control my cuts. My apprenticed carpenter father who went through the war built the family home and everything inside it never had anything with a plug on it. Best wishes from England.
I hoard tools, wife is totally supportive. Always picking up good deals on craigslist. All the folks in my clan live in beat up houses and I’m always fixing someone’s stuff, and my old beat up tools I started with from my grandpa helped me learn and teach myself and get by. One day when my son is ready to leave the nest he’ll be able to start up with a robust kit of my old extra tools.
You are right, thats the essencial tool for a carpenter. But, what tool do you use to clean the wood surface?
A reciprocating saw handles unusual work quickly. And I use a combo belt sander/polisher all the time.
For me, It should be Grinder and a Drill. I’m more of bolt & nut guy. So, I basically bolt 2 angle bar metals or woods. Or I may use screws in it to fasten it up. I also use my grinder for cutting woods easily especially when it is just straight cut.
What about cutting French cleats ?
It’s fun to collect power tools! Ha ha ha
Sounds familiar.
Addiction.
🤣
woah how insightful, a saw and a drill.
Note to everyone: skip the first 2 minutes.
I think you are awesome
awesome advise
I agree. I guessed the two tools right before you said them.
grinder and drill,,,,
Yawn. Silly
We’re not in Kansas anymore. This guy knows what’s up.
This is video is the reason I subscribed. Circular saw and cordless drill have done fine for most projects, and for a skill that’s supposed to be handy and rugged buying a bunch of tools seems really decadent. TYVM.
SO HELPFUL!! Thank you!!!
Very well said and honest; Thank you for guiding us DIYer/1st time home owners properly about the 2 most essentials power tools. Salute!
Great video, man. Add a lav mic to your setup and you’ll be gold. Sometimes you sound like you’re in a tunnel. Cheers!
Totally agree. One thing to watch out for, if you intend to use your drill for driving screws, don’t get a drill with monster torque. While these can do everything, they also make it very difficult to not strip screw heads, even Robertson heads.
Chopsaw and tablesaw, the backbone of any serious woodworkers shop.
Well said. Thank you.
Thank you, this is some helpful information from you as a professional. 👍👍👍👍
Thanks men! Great video and advice for those of us in limited budget. Can this circular saw get connected to a dust collector? How would you deal with dust in a closed space like a garage?
When I seen the name of the title of this video, I already knew my top two picks, so I was not one single bit surprised to see that you chose the same ones. I am completely in your corner on this one!!!!!
@Tyler Straka Believe me, 18 is fine. I had a hammer drill I could use on stone or concrete yet had no problem, different bit of course, on pine. 18 is the sweet spot, especially with the new lighter batteries.
I guessed right too. I am not sure 18 volts on the cordless drill if that is too powerful or not powerful enough it just seems pretty average
Would you recommend 1/4 inch Ryobi impact cordless driver?
Very helpful info!
Maybe just psychological, but I would recommend a circular saw with a brake on it… my skillsaw was inexpensive (and works well for me), but spins for a good 10 or 15 seconds after releasing the trigger. Doesn’t “seem” so safe, even though it has a blade guard.
This was a great video! Loved how you focused a lot on safety! That was great to hear!
Thanks Murphy! 🙂
This was extremely helpful
I built our green house with a circular saw and 2 drill (one for pre-drill, one for drive). No help from the lady.
Cordless drills suck because if you don’t use it for months the battery will die and you have to buy another drill plus batteries . I always prefer drills with cords .
I have been a DIY builder for more years of my life than anything else. I just can not pay the huge prices of a hire out. But I say that to say what I have found. My own ability improved greatly with the quality of the tools I bought. There is a huge difference in cut and square and stright because of the quality of a tool. Advie? buy the best you can and stay away from the cheap over sea sellers.
I agree. For years, those were all the power tools I could afford and I did a lot of nice projects with those. I did get tired of adjusting and clamping long guides though 😉
I agree. Starting out, I built a lot of things with just these two tools. Also, get good at building jigs for the circular saw.
Video starts at 2:56
Agreed on the drill but I think the jigsaw is better if only allowed the one saw because of the precision cuts that can be done. Long straight cut need a guide though.
I agree on you tool choice. I remember when I started 20 years ago,my motivation to get expensive Table saw,radial arm saw and more just for the convenience put financial pressure that were overcome, in time as a cabinet maker of fine furniture it made sense to get a specific tool for a specific job. Staring simple with these 2 tools leads to more improvising.
Double up your batteries
angle grinder + welder
u can built most power tool with angle grinder if you creative enough
every time I buy a new tool my Dad always laughs and says is that another exhibit for your unused tool museum in fairness to him I do have 4 cordless circular saws, why ?
I tend to have a horrible balance, so using a table mill saw has worked like a charm for me.
thank u for the advice, I am a stroke survivor and just have to handle tools with one hand, I think u want to add a tool (I don’t have one yet) it is the makita cutter (reciprocating or oscillating saw) that makes easy to take apart pallets just sawing the nails off, I would like to read ur comments about the power and the size of that tool.. i would like to get the power without the weight .thank u
You are rite on sir. Those 2 tools elect or batt can an will make you money, if you have the no how to do so . But you can’t forget hand tools . And you have to be a carpenter . You hit it on the 6 penny nail head ( SIR thank you
My sharpened potato got dull.
I’ve used a circular saw quiet a bit. But I was never really taught how to use them and it terrifies me every time. Lol
me too,not using it since i got them 3yrs ago,using only jigsaw now.
I RECEIVED AN $1,800 ESTIMATE FROM A CONTRACTOR to build a twenty foot long wall to divide my living room from my dining room. I DECIDED TO SPEND THAT $1,800 on my own collection of DeWalt’s finest and I did the job myself. AND NOW… I have all of those marvelous power tools PLUS I have a twenty foot long wall to divide my living room from my dining room.
IF I WERE 30 YEARS OLD AGAIN… I would be agreeing with everything you are saying about the need for only two power tools. THESE DAYS… The extra help I receive from using something like a nail gun just means that I can get the same job done in MUCH less time. If a hammer was still the only tool available, I would definitely have to hire the work done and even your younger arm would eventually tire from the effort. Great video. Reminds me of the much better times past.
Well god damn it. I should have seen these before ordering that jigsaw hahaha.
I’m a 100% noob to woodworking, I mean, from scratch, like NO idea at all, and have been trying to learn a few BASIC things to start by watching YouTube tutorials. This is the first honest useful video I’ve seen about basic function/tools.
Hope you could make some more vids for real beginners.
My wife loves the video.. hahaha!
Jesus was a carpenter and he had a Mag 77.
I’m not in the trades, but I built my own house. These days I keep a 20″ Plano tool box under the back seat of my truck and I can do practically ANYTHING with just the tools in that box. I’ve got only one power tool in there, a Craftsman cordless drill with 2 batteries and a charger that I bought at a garage sale 5 years ago for $12. I didn’t want anything pricey and it’s no prom queen but the thing always does the job and just refuses to die. I charge the batteries 3 times a year and after I use it so it’s always ready to go. Everything else is just hand tools and I can do it all.
I would say to get driver with a hammer function it makes driving into concrete much easier
“It’s dangerous”
After watching this video about the most 2 significant power tools a carpenter must have, I remembered my works and jobs! You are absolutely right!
There were times that those were the only 2 in my car and got the job done!
I also miss my utility/ so many purpose knife , I left it in Canada, I ve got 2 actually! I can not find any here in the philippines!
I m learning a lot from your videos! Thanks a lot Friend! 😊
I observed my needs carefully and, aware of the danger of a larger saw, I bought a Makita cordless circular saw. It cuts everything I need to cut. Just barely deep enough, but it does it. Been using it now for nearly twenty years. Still works great. This tool plus a couple of Ryobi cordless drills have built, rebuilt, and rebuilt again many items in my home: book-cases, work-tables, stands, whatever. Just those two are enough.
I agree, that without those 2 tools, your dead in the water. Everything else either makes the job faster, easier or more accurate.
Never buy a tool unless you continuously find that you need it. Never buy a tool unless it’s going to pay for itself within one month. Buy the tool that suits the quality and dependability that you require.
1. Drill ( medium strength and diameter, sds, with hammering option)
and 2. also medium size grinder (you can always transform it to circular saw)
it is 2 must have tools for any job aplication, power planer and circular saw can come next, and than you get stationary tools one by one
Im joking, buy a lathe and make whatever you want
I built a bunch of stuff using a Walmart circular saw and cheap drill from amazon
Multi tool!!!
A track saw over a circular saw? Much more expensive I know.
I agree with you for that two important tools.
Yep! As a DIYer those are the best two power tools to start with. In more of the construction field, adding the impact driver as a 3rd power tool will help with making tasks easier to do. Manufacturers also know that, so they offer some good deals with a tri-combo of the three. For portability, the cordless version of the saw works well in simpler tasks (just has less power) – but it does eliminate the issue of finding a place to plug the saw into and overall cable management.
Got to fo with an impact driver over a standard drill, most impact driver’s have a “drill” setting, but for DIYers, an impact driver is indispensable for fastening jobs.
I couldn’t agree more , Ive been in and out of carpentry and cabinet building for most of my life. I also do many home improvement for myself and friends If I was to have to choose just two power tools. I would have to go with the skill saw and a good screw gun.
I’m on pro, not at all but I wasn’t surprised those were your 2 choices, to b honest. I was glad to hear you say “watch out the dangers of circular saws” and I agree, had a close encounter myself, totally my fault but I was afraid of using them for a while, years really. I like your direct and sincere approach to sharing your hard earned knowledge. Thank you! I would say that a 3rd very useful and handy power tool would be an oscillating saw for those “finesse surgical” cuts that require near surgical control. Noisy as all hell though! But they allow you to make certain cuts that you just wouldn’t be able to pull off with a circular saw, IMHO.
Noooo…you missed the most important tool ever!!
The kettle!! Cannot start a job without a brew…preferably stirred with a pencil.
* makita pencil *
And Makita makes an 18v jobsite version.
I am a 5′ female and a DIYer and I hate circular saw. Though the first saw I bought was a circular saw. It scares me a lot.
Try a cordless mini. They are less scary, smaller and easier to control, and no worries about tripping over the cord. Lighter, too. Mine has lasted nearly 20 years (Makita).
few days ago before I see your vid I’ve already bought Bosch gst 150 bce Jigsaw as my 1st tool ever. im still learning and ive been watching vids for several months now. the reason why i choose a jigsaw over a circular one is that a circular saw cant do curves and circles which a jigsaw can do, so how the circular + cordless drill gonna solve the curve issues if you dont have a jig ? anyways i see you mentioned the lack of power and the shortness of blades in jigsaws but i got 780w compared to the rest i saw its powerful enough and it can cut up to 15 centimetres and can tilt u to 45 degrees and its way more safe than a circular saw, so how its not better considering the curve issue atleast ?
You only need 4 seconds of video: 2:55 – 2:59
almost all power tools spin /rotate, think about that
You saved me a ton of money! 👍🏼tip.
Makita circular saw are too heavy .
Got to about 0:24 & I’m not watching anymore.
Coz he mentioned “DIYers are overwhelmed with choices”. Along the lines of “These mentally ill people, you know?? They just can’t do certain things! TODO”,
as it was said by your profiler. I’ll also take the gander that he is also more of a mid manager, probably even started on that before, odd enough, asked to do profiling.
3ng!nD.
I used to have a circular saw that almost took my thumb out once (but that’s another story), which I recently sold off after more than a decade of disuse because I don’t live in a house with a garage but in an apartment with a small shared open space with my neighbour. Danger aside, the circular saw with its massive amounts of energy creates insane amounts of dust and noise which my neighbours wouldn’t appreciate one bit. For an enthusiast, my go to tools are my jig saw and SDS drill (because they’re great with the hardest reinforced concrete and DIYers don’t just play with wood like carpenters) if I need lumber of specific sizes, I go out and get them pre or custom cut…Ok, I confess I do have a cordless drill for my fastening and small drilling jobs.
tool rules dictate you can never have to many
I would go with a driver vs a drill. I own both and seem to use the driver mostly unless I’m drilling and driving a lot of screws at one time
I don’t do paid work and I’m addicted 😭
I use a 15” hand saw 🙈
Can you tell us DIY wires some of the most important smaller tools, for example a level obviously a tape measure but what else
I’m using a Ryobi 5 1/2 circular saw almost exclusively any more. It’s cordless and usually has enough power and accuracy. A big plus for me is it’s lower on power and lite weight. Easier and safer imo. Doesn’t kick back as much and tends to bind first. Btw The drill is junk and impact driver is ok but bulky.
Exactly, your are really an honest carpenter. That’s what my dad uses as a professional carpenter. He has a circular saw and a drill as power tools rest are hand tools . He even doesn’t care about brands. He can make his own hand planes from scrap wood. More power tool are not necessary, just it may speed up your work. Instead try to build your skills. More power means more responsibility more dangerous. All the best for all the woodworkers.
The 2 tools here: 2:53 You’re welcome!!!
i think a drill and an angle grinder are the first power tool you need to buy, are very useful and have a lot of different accessories for a lot of things, and you can make your own accessories and such
Totally agree 👍
1. Circular saw
2. 18v cordless drill
What you think about cellphhone tape meassure apps? Are they good are they better?
And cellphone leves and angles
Circular saw and powered drill. You’re welcome.
Thanks 🙏
I agree, when I was deployed in the dessert we always use the circular saw to cut plywood and drills to screw lumber together to make shelves, stairs and benches. Truly one of the most usefull tools out there. I also like using the jigsaw sometimes to cut curves and other angles and shapes its so versatile!
Handsaw
Brace and bit or an eggbeater drill
Take time( experience)to use circular saw .
Take to much time if I doing roof I need tool.
If you are renovating you need a problem solver called the sawzall
how come, that if you have to invest in only two tools, none of the best are actually mentioned? no mafell. no festool, no metabo or dewalt? if i’m buying any saw, I would always go for mafell and if go wireless, i would also buy metabo impact wrench, as I can swap batteries. yes, they are 3-4x more expensive, but they are for life.
Impact drill in replacement of the cordless drill?
I understand impact drill doesn’t have hammer function if there’s masonry, concrete, etc involved.
Super helpful video. I’ve always owned a corded drill, got a cordless drill for the control and driving screws. Then the next tool I got was a palm sander… which honestly just sits there because most times a block of wood and sandpaper is way easier than pulling out a power tool. Then I got a dremel and am constantly frustrated trying to make it do more than it was designed for… Should have skipped those and went straight to a circular saw because daaamn I’m sick of doing long straight cuts with a handsaw lol. Being in a small apartment I’ve wanted to try everything I can to avoid getting a circular saw, but if I could go back I’d get one in a heartbeat.
10minutes for two power tools? Watch later
Excellent video for a DIYer newbie. I have a Bosch cordless drill and a jigsaw and they work wonders for me. I have smaller wood working projects so I don’t need a circular saw, the jigsaw is perfect for the types of cuts I need. Cheers!
I used to do capentry work, still do light duty work and you’re correct, these are the 2 most needed tools, the rest of for convenience and speed
accuracy ?
my mitre saw has given up on me so I was looking for a new one. Now I’ll just focus on some guides and rails for the excellent circular saw I already have. Thanks for saving me money 🙂
True sir an honest statement
yeah I’d totally agreed with him he specifically said you just need 2 important power tool but he didn’t say you need to buy it OK… just borrow from someone and don’t return it like those who just but for fun don’t really use it have them collecting dust u know what I mean
I agree A complete tool shed is number three…………..😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷😷. 🖕
I almost agree, but two power tools I was able to use for 99% of my projects were a cordless drill and a cordless saws all
Loved your honest opinions and take on types of tool. Respect from Austarlia.
I think DIYer would be better off with a jigsaw more versetile
10 mins. for just 2 power tools
You forgot angle grinder and a Dremel
A good black and decker work bench is very handy almost a necessity.
Are the circular saw specialized for wood or metal? Or can i change just the blade and using same tool?
This channel fuckin slaps
until now, I would say a recip saw over a skill
I like and have two drills, it makes the pilot hole and the screwing into the hole go a lot faster. I have both a corded and battery powered drill. Great video, thanks. And yes I have done many projects with just those two power tools.
You missed 2 important aspects of the circular saw. #1 with the proper blade you can cut thru metal, steel, and iron. #2 with the proper blade you can also cut thru concrete and masonry………very very important uses to remember.
Hubbard Cobb said you can build a whole house with 3 tools. A saw, a square, and a hammer. His logic was simmular. Measure, cut, attach. I’d say I agree, a skil saw and a corless drill. I just bought a dirt cheap porter cable circular saw. Super accurate, 35$ on sale. 18v is THE platform. With the compacts Ryobi delivers 18v power at 12v weight. Table saw and miter saw are the logical next step. The table saw is the king of the shop.
I am a beginner
What about a *planer?* When we buy wood mostly it will come with coarse surface.
Will you suggest a *planer* or *any alternate?*
And thank you for suggesting a good idea.
planer is nice, but if you can sand it down by hand, it’s it needed. it is very helpful and can cut down lots of time but you can get by without one.
I have those two. Yay!
Watching from the Philippines learned a lot from this video. Two thumbs up.
Given that its 2020 and track saws got a lot cheaper, I’d get that drill you’re talking about and a track saw.
A high quality but light router / edge trimmer, is also essential to me.
I think the Second should be the Modern Grinder with Cutting and Sawing Tools Attachments.
I am a novice woodworker and think you are right. The only other 2 tools I have is a sander and last week I just bought my first router and table. Thank you for the info. I now know I don’t really need a table saw.
It’s not my place to speak, as I’m a total newbie, but fundamentally, they are always 3 – you know – a knife, a spoon and a fork. And yes, we can skip the crab-eating utensils. 🙂
I think every novice carpenter/DIY-er should have a jigsaw too. Try cutting a hole for a circular kitchen sink for example without one. Cutting curves is where the jigsaw shines. Once I was assisting a guy, doing a full kitchen install, and skilfully using a jigsaw (not even a good one), he managed to make a perfectly rounded end of a thick countertop. I guess you can do the same, making several short cuts with the circular saw, getting as close to the desired shape as possible, but then you’ll have to do a lot of sanding. Not quite so practical I think.
Is there an electric saw you’d recommend to a clumsy person? 😬
Jigsaws are probably safer Kaitlyn. But please be careful if you use one! 😬
Great topic! The two power tools I take with me most often would be a Makita 18v impact driver and a Makita 18v compact reciprocating saw. I only rarely get out my circular saws actually since the recip saw with a wood blade is very convenient for cross-cutting even in tight spaces. For fine work or rip cuts of modest length I use a manual Japanese saw that fits easily in my toolbox. For larger rip cuts I might dig out my circular saw though!
The reason I buy power tools is just to balance my expenses with her expenses. If she spends something expensive, I buy tools. It goes over and over again.
Yup😂
My wife would encourage me to match her in buying tools, because she think that is money well spent, in other world, a capital investment which save her a lot of more money destined for the professionals…I can not win either way…
I threatened my wife with this scenario! I told her if she keeps up the spending, I was going to match her! She was more terrified of that statement than me threatening to take away the credit card!
😅😅😅😅
😂
I just started my cordless tool collection. These two were my must have’s.
Great video!
Hey, those two tools are absolutely perfect, I agree on that. However, would add just two more from perfection stand point. In addition to the two tools, the third one is a Router and the fourth is a sander (the one with a belt). Thanks for making such a n insightful video for fresh minds and DIYiers 👍
I don’t even know why I watched this. I knew what he was gonna say. I’m still here watching though! Why should I listen to him? Well I guess more views he gets the more people will benefit from the algorithm recognizing it’s a relavent video? I have no idea
What size circular saw would you recommend for the DIYer? I’m thinking of getting the Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw.
I would say jigsaw instead of circular saw. More versatile. Cheaper. Can cut deeper.
Like your video great and have to agree with you like you said circular saw is very dangerous as I found out many year’s ago with black and decker circular saw attachment nearly lost my thumb mind doing a dull thing by holding wood in one hand and saw in the other hand well done good info
I can agree with him. However, (yall knew this would come) having the correct tool or specific tool to do a specific task is also important.
You answered my question in this video. Circular saw vs jig saw.
I had jig saw since i think won’t be cutting big woods. But still in the long run still need to get the circular say.
jig saws are more precise. i am kinda a neewbie but i can jig saw over circular saw whenever i can, just because i’m more comfortable with it, and keeping the cuts straight. both are wonderful tools!
Even after having upgraded to a bunch of fancy bench tools, I still bust out the skill saw to handle a LOT of primary breakdown
Electric sanders are 3rd
Basically for the non-professional DIY-er the only power tools you really need are a good drill (preferable cordless) and a circular saw. I wrote this before I saw what he said. Myself, I have other power tools but these are the two I use 95% of the time.
Very informative video, straight to the point! Started to watch carpentry diy videos this quarantine period! Your video is one of the best, truly honest carpenter, I will buy the 2 tools as advise! Watching here from Philippines 🇵🇭
You are right.
Moneywise, impact drivers and drill drivers often come in combos for reasonable prices. As such, I would add that as a caveat. Only when on sale of course.
All of my DYI projects were done with a drill and hand saw. Required some work, and I want a circular saw, but I hear too many excuses from people.
Called it, drill driver and circ saw are indispensable. I started with a small tool collection and I categorized them into “what I need ” and “what makes my life easier”. Drill/driver and circ saw are the foundation to build upon.
What do I use in order to drill wood pallets into metal?
I like how you added the driver in with the drill and circle saw. Drilling a pilot bit with with the drill and then just picking up the driver and putting screws in has saved me so much time on bit changes
The drill is a no-brainer. Can’t decide between a circular or jigsaw, although a cordless jigsaw is incredibly versatile (and safer!) than a circular
Good video. Stay safe brother. I really admire you guys and gals out there that know how to design and fabricate.
Nice one. I get so frustrated with how to videos that imply I’ll need to buy a heap of tools before I can hang a picture. Of course we all want to buy the tools but often they are not essential. For years I operated with a handsaw and a hammer. It taught me to trust myself rather than than a tool. Remember most of the world’s iconic historical buildings etc were built without power so it is possible. Since thus early days I have upgraded and my basic kit is exactly this. Plus a cork block.
The best video with amazing info. Thankyou
You have the finest personality! You are an excellent teacher. Thank you for your videos!!!
I’ve been an avid DIY’er for 30+ years and what he said about hand saws being dangerous is so true. We all know someone who either lost tip of a finger or swung a chainsaw in their leg (or some other really bad accident). Since I am always alone when building one mistake or tool failure and I’m in trouble. That’s why whenever I put power in my hand I have a bandana on. Usually around my wrist so I can wipe away sweat or as headband or just around my neck but always tied to me. Never in my tool box or tool belt because inevitably I will be 10 ft away if something happens. Thank God I’ve only used it once on my knuckle and it helped but didn’t save my life. But having a way to make a tourniquet in an emergency where it’s just you can be the difference of bleeding to death and slowing the flow so you can dial 911. I grab my bandana before anything else, it’s just second nature now. And yes you can use a shirt ( as a female not something I’d love to do) but shirts are cumbersome and not quiet as ready to use. Just thought I’d share if there are some young carpenters watching and reading this one.
You should look into the CAT Combat Application Tourniquet, or any of the other two devices that are approved by CoTCCC and C-TECC, they can be used one handed as well. I learned how to apply a cravat as a field improvised tourniquet in combat life savers course while deployed to Iraq back in 04, and the time it took was scary long, just my humble opinion. Stay safe.
I would add a jig saw to that list because there are a lot of projects the require to cut around corners or circles , an a power saw just can’t do that very well.
Agree with you. We have far too many tools that rarely see use for the DIYer. For a long time, I would always reach for my hand saws to cut through plywood. Now I’m going to get a Circular saw. Thanks for echoing my constant advice to DIY people, that they have way too many power tools. Cheers!
I’m a retired carpenter … agree totally Mikita was my go to saw with a saw guide I built my first set of cabinets back in the 70s but my tool addiction took hold and I became makita tool man over the years. Great advice 🤠👍🔨
@Kaveh Dowlatshahi DeWalt and or Milwaukee are currently the best. Ridgid isn’t bad if you can get Home Depot to honor the warranty. I would skip Ryobi unless you only want really light duty equipment.
Ty Kellerman what brand do drill do u recommend? Mikita or ryobi?
On a side note I am surprised by about the amount of DIY videos on YouTube where the person uses tools that 90% of the people don’t have. For example instead of using a table saw use a circular saw. Instead of a band saw use a JigSaw.
Agree on those choices, but for circular saw, I’ll go with Skilsaw. I had one that just died after 40 years of use and just replaced it with another (Sidewinder commercial. For cordless drill I go with Ridgid for one single reason: the warranty, besides is very powerful.
For me essentially; a cordless 13mm impact drill…and a jigsaw, with some clamps on a straight edge plank/ruler. Quite versatile, as I still could cut straights and curves.
But i’m working with mostly max up to 50mm/2” wood; for just smaller projects
Timely, Just happened on this channel, well delivered, I was thinking about a project, traveling to another location, how little I could get by with, thanks
I think I would have chosen an impact driver over a power drill. After spending years only using a power drill, impact drivers are a gift from god.
GOOD CHOICES
I would add having a impact gun to go along with the drill.
To me thats really esential,the circular saw obviously also.
Just my opinion,great video sir.
For years I got by fabricating needed home projects with a jigsaw and a power drill/driver. Now that I have the experience I own many more power tools including a 15 amp, 7-1/4 in. Makita circular saw. I told my wife years ago the same thing you preach.
Instead of a drill/driver I recommend a good hammer drill. Yes they are known for driving through cement however most modern ones will also mimic an impact driver. So essentially you get two tools in one.
I think you may have been too quick to dismiss the jigsaw. You are limited to the depth of the blade but there are blades that will get through 4 inches deep. You can get straight cuts with a straight edge. With jigs, you can mimic a band or scroll saw. You can free hand cuts you cant make with a circular saw. You can generally get cleaner cuts as well. I think some do let you adjust the plate for bevel and miter cuts and even if they don’t you can make a jig for that as well. In my opinion it gives you more options and the ability to do finer woodworking as well as construction grade. However if you are just doing construction grade cutting then the circular saw is a better choice.
Thank you @The Honest Carpenter
Yessss I guessed the two tools
Phenomenal video, precise and to the point. I’m hoping that you have made a video on how to use the circular saw, or are planning a video. Instant sub, thanks so much!
I liked and subscribed because you put the answer in the description. You didn’t make us watch the whole video unless we wanted to. I watched it anyway because I wanted to.
I was very recently thinking of getting 2 power tools to start. My choice was a table saw and a router for more finish carpentry.
table saw is more precise, and will easier to work with. circular saw is far more versatile though. routers are very useful. sanders are a must have too, and a planer is super nice as well.
Hi, I m interested in the makita 5007f circular saw but in my country current is 220v, so I need to use a converter 110-220. But I can t find how many watts it consume to by the proper inverter. Can you help me with that? thanks.
Without a tape measure you may as well buy a blindfold and guess your cuts.
Thank you! I’m eager to start.
I feel that my Milwaukee M18 fuel gen 3 impact driver is more useful and versatile than my Bosch 18V drill. The bosch drill has a ton of modes which is good for more delicate stuff, but the Milwaukee impact beats it by far in every other way and for more delicate stuff I just use the lowest setting and use the variable speed trigger.
It’s true. I built some planter boxes using just a circular saw and cordless drill which you can see at https://twitter.com/makermelissa/status/1265119498811527170
You really are honest, I learned a lot from you, thanks. looking forward to learn more from you.. 👍👍
lol all my tools are left in this van overnight
Totally agree
Don’t let my wife see this…
Walks in to home depot for drill/skillsaw. . . Walks out with drill, skillsaw, table saw, miter saw, planer, and a new torpedo level.
Home Depot is a really big hassle to get a warranty honored, Lowes is less of a hassle
I’ve had that same Makita circular saw for 16 years. Liked it because it was on the cheap side and still Makita and thought I’d “upgrade” at some point. 16 years later, still no need to upgrade. Probably something that will get past down to my kids.
I need three power tools: a skil saw, drill, and a sawzall to tear down the colossal mess I just made 😉
@Kyle Alexander I’ve had no problems with with any of my 20v Dewalt tools either. I even have their small battery operated miter saw and it runs for hours on a single 5 Ah battery when cutting crown or chair rail. Take care
@Tribulation Prepper we use all cordless 20v dewalt hand tools on job sites. The skill saw and oscillating multitool (we call it a plunge cutter) are really nice. As well as the drivers and grinders r good as well
Bahahahaha! I almost fell off of my chair. Thanks!
YES on each one….But I use my chop saw just as much.
@Tribulation Prepper PREACH!!
I like your company name 💪
I would choose a impact over a drill .
Corded is no longer the norm .
When you’re a real man tools are always a addiction.
It’s actually an eye opener for me thank u😊
I watched this video after buying my first tools but I’m happy I bought the rights ones, exactly those two!
I’m a newbie woodworker building desks tables shelves eat. I was thinking about a compact circular saw what’s your thoughts &/or recommendations if any. I have bandsaw tablesaw jigsaw … you teach me allot
One carpenter to another, that is great advice.
I agree with that, but the sawzall is a must have. I like to get stuff up and cut the tails off it saves so much time measuring angles up down back forth. Get a perfect cut every time.
You only need two Power Tools: 🧠 and 💪
but these power tools 👅and 🐓keeps the toolbox open.
Great advice ,
Circular saw and a high powered cordless drill is good enough for most jobs .
With these two you can do any job asked of you.
Yes kickback and jamming are the biggest risks with hand circular saws , but with more and more tools now featuring anti kickback on their tools hopefully those risks will be in the past.
Modern 18 and 20 volt cordless drills are a must .
I currently use a DeWalt XPR powerhouses of a drill driver .
With a function as an hammer drill to
So you can drill wood metals , and concrete and most wall types to a point,
Also screws and bolts .
These two items go on every job with me doing matanance work for 30 Kindergartens and to offices.
Yes we have tables saws and cross cuts , Routers . But I only need those for jobs that require a different level of finish.
The only other tool if find really useful is the Multitool , in my case a Fein Multimaster because they can be used for anything or almost anything , saving carry a ton of tools around.
Thanks for your honest advice it will save people lots of money , with so much choice tool wise , and a lot you do not need for most normal jobs.
I could only dream of this level of choice back in the early 80’s when I starting working in Antiques restoration and custom furniture building .
Lots of today’s tools did not even exist
It was still hand screwing , corded drills and power tools.
And nasty heavy thicknesser planners and bench saws with no safety systems other than a stop button .
Million miles away from today’s equipment .
But for sure you do not need a ton of power tools to make a good job you just need to have the correct ones.
So thanks for saving people out there from wasting money .
Me and my daughter have no experience at all but we’re trying to do stuff ourselves. We made a little canopy toddler bed from a crib. for my grandbaby, needs to transition into his own bed and yes you are right i just needed a drill n a circular saw but my question is if there’s a attachment of some source to just use for drill instead of bits and one for screws. one of the drill is to wide to put the drill bit in. the drill bit and the other for the screws. It took us forever its So confusing. But it looked good 🙂 oh n it took forever to look for screws at home depot. long day 🥱 thank you 🙂
Great video James build skills to cut stuff I need and a great cordless drill is true for sure
Ha, I have that same exact drill! I find my jigsaw gets used a lot more than my circular saw, although having a good guide/track is essential for straight cuts with the jigsaw. The versatility of a vertical cut and ability to start a cut with a ¼” hole, and being able to cut curves, and even mount it upside down on a table to work like a bandsaw is hard to beat. My Bosch was handed down to me from my dad 20 years ago, and aside from cord replacements has needed nothing to work like new.
I’m with you on the not using the circular saw as much. I’d have to substitute the table saw for jigsaw, though. I very rarely use the jigsaw and haven’t used the circular saw in about a year and a half, but the table saw gets a workout on nearly every project I do. I’m just weird, I guess. =
The most important power tool is the one between your ears. After that, the cordless drill, and finally the circular saw. Table saw or band saw after that, once you know what you want to focus on–but that’s not the entry-level newbie he’s talking about here. The rest are all specialty tools, either for production work (miter saw, drill press) or demo (sawzall). At that point, you’ll know what you need without having to ask a YT content creator.
I would add one more tool to those two… and that is an angle grinder. The angle grinder, fitted with a flap disc, does an easy job of smoothening out rough wooden surfaces, better than an orbiting sander.
@ben sehon — Yes, the drill may be used as a grinder or sander, but it doesn’t have the speed of an angle grinder which spin at over 10,000 rpm. The high speed is important as it makes the sanding much easier.
You can use the drill as a grinder and sander even the circular saw can use a cutting blade for cement and cutting bolts
It’s not how many you NEED but how many you WANT 😛
Impact /drill combo and a portable table saw
Corded drill, not cordless.
1) More powerful.
2) Endless power.
3) Predrilling NOT needed w drill head screws.
4) 3rd tool is the cordless drill for predrilling if u want to.
@The Honest Carpenter
Clutches annoy me. If it has it, I leave it on full power.
I agree on the power quotient, Tesla. I just need that clutch for drive control though. Don’t see many models that have a clutch
Those are the 2 I started with. Then added a reciprocating saw.
Ditto. Then I had to add my combo belt sander and polisher. Use them all. The. Time.
As a DIYer, the cordless drill should also include a hammer drill function!
You make a great point, but I guess half of my work never involved working with a lot of Masonary
Thank you. Thank you! I’6m a 66yo lady from Australia. I have both these tools plus a few others eg. Jig saw. I was only commenting on another video today and asking for more tutorials on how to cut angles with the circular saw. I’m retiring soon and want to start creating with timber. Keep making videos!
So, here’s a guy whose got all the tools. But he only recommends 2 tools for essential work. Nice.
I got 3 favorites. A cordless saw, a cordless impact driver an a cordless drill/driver.
I’m sorted. I gotta lot more, but that’s the ones I use most.
Circle saw and impact drill
Oh I was technically right on
So close
bud, I feel all the new diy dummies go for circular saw and then discover that there was a much efficient option of jigsaw which they missed….so let the power be half but jig saw will be best for starters…specially all new precision jigsaws…
De Walt, I refer to as yellow black and decker.🤔
I picked up a Ryobi circular saw and drill with battery and charger for $100 at Home Depot recently. Best purchase I’ve ever made. .
I buy used tools in the winter from my friends at the pawn shop. I have a few Craftsman tools I will never part with, besides they make lousy combs, they hurt when they are running.
As an aluminium window installer I would swap the circular saw for a mitre saw….
But I would still stick with Makita and I have an 18 volt Hitachi I am very impressed with myself…. it is now about 13 years old and I have not noticed much of a power drop… 5 solid years on site out of those 13 years.
Your video is so amazing,i have no experience with woods and carpentry but now after watching the wood work videos and all i really love to be one of those guys who makes these cool stuffs,am 25 years old can i learn to be a carpenter at this age?
Amateurs! The Masters of the Old World only used handsaws. No screws or nails.
Even before that, in the Ancient World, they used crystal lasers and sonic technology.
To be technical, a drill and a multi tool.
With multitools, you can cut, sand, scrape, though it would take more time but could be done.
A router is the next option comparable with the circular saw. Advantage of circular saw is depth. With a router there are so many bits you can cut practically anything (and any angle with homemade jigs), even use it as a saw, a planer, a drill, and a lathe. Plus you can use jigs that you can make with the tool itself. Even make a router table using the tool itself to transform it to endless possibilities.
Then there is the multi tool drill attachment systems on some drills. Craftsman Bolt-On (discontinued) and B&D Matrix, where a drill attachment changes to impact drill, impact wrench, multi tool, grinder, router, hedge trimmers, hammer drill, air inflator, jigsaw, reciprocating saw, shears, trim circular saw, and sander.
And don’t be fooled by “pros” saying they’re not for professional use because I’ve used the in remodeling jobs. Some spots you can’t use a circ saw and jig saw or reciprocating saw doesn’t cut it, the multi tool does the job. And when you need a small quick cut on elevated work, the drill attached saw can fit in the tool belt, is light, and don’t need to go down to get the regular saw in the other room. Plus it’s safer. You will need plenty of battery power however if it’s going to be used a lot. Of course you can’t force and abuse the tool. The motor isn’t designed for it. But use it with care and without maxing it, it works 9/10 as good as anything else. For heavy duty work, then you probably have the proper tool for it, and it’s probably not DIY anyway.
This is very true. Many of the other tools are not absolutely needed though they do help. I predominantly used my circular saw and battery driven drill when having to do a major repair on my 25 year old shed. It had major water damage after a winter storm ripped up the roofing material. I had to replace much of the OSB on the roof and put a metal roof over. It took a while since I am not a carpenter but I learned and really enjoyed the finished project. Then 2 weeks ago I built a set of storage shelves watching Youtube. Thank you for the safety reminders.
What is your opinion of track saws? I have a full shop with table saw. Yet for sheet goods i prefer the circular saw on the ground. I just find that with the table saw you are steering the wood from almost 8 feet away. This would be the equivalent of steering the circular saw on the end of a broomstick. The slightest torque placed on the sheet can ruin the cut. Never happens with circ saw. However, I do find fence set up for the circular saw a pain. This is why I’m wondering about the track saw.
thanks, nice video
Thanks for watching! I’ve actually never owned a track saw. I’ve used straight edges and rip guides, but always found track saws too unwieldy for the job site. You’re right though—steering in a full sheet on the table saw is tricky. I just sort of figured out a line-up method that worked for me. I tend to watch the fence instead of the cut
It starts at 2:15 for all you anxious people like me.
A man only needs Homer Simpson’s electric hammer to do any job at hand.
Just so hard to find one these days
Im here to justify my purchase. Giving myself a pat in the back.
same.✌😅
Same hahaha
How about 12v cordless drill?
Does anyone knows a power tools company name “Superior”?? I have a 5 pcs power tools set brand “Superior” I’m trying to find spare parts like new Batteries and charger but no one seems to know this brand online
Three, the square. :))
I agree with your two tools. However, I do think a good jigsaw should be on that list for making curves, circles, etc. I’ve found that I reach for my jigsaw many times instead of going to the bandsaw. So, I think there are three basic tools a DIY’r needs.
I’d add a Dremel.
I’d agree but it’s the tool I never knew I needed until I bought one! (very recently)
Now I don’t know how I got by without it…
Yep! That’s about it.
So-o-o-o helpful.
Since they sell drill and driver kits for not much more than just the drill it’s worth getting the kit. Having to constantly change out between driver and drill bits gets old very, very fast. And different kinds of cheap wood having the driver just makes it way easier.
I do like my router
I have the Makita saw and it still works great after 20 years
This is very true. Even as a rookie, these two were first to stand out for me when considering the basic power tools to start with. They together almost make a whole workshop. You can turn a circular saw into a DIY track saw, table saw or even mitre saw, and you can DIY your power drill into a few kinds of sanders, a mini woodturner, or even a saw.
The most important power tool I have is the soldering iron.
Used it on almost every home appliance I’ve repaired so far.
Also made a nice penny on the side by repairing vintage radios, amplifiers and turntables.
@Cbw Xinhua I don’t know if a multimeter counts as a powertool.
What about your multimeter? Would you say you use that more than the soldering iron?
Great help
Thank you so much
Common sense about common tools. You hit the nail on the head.
He with the most tools win…
Sound advice for beginners in carpentry. From these tools you can work out where to go. And there are a lot of cordless drills with a hammer setting, giving you masonry drilling for anchoring work.
And a good pair of sawhorses with bench rails. I bought two decent fold up ones and they are always out getting dusty in a good way.
Maybe you’re not the guy to ask, but what about apartment dwellers? I lived in apartments most of my life and I still had a circular saw, power drill, and jigsaw. I made all my flower beds on my balcony, window boxes and other apartment sized projects. What other tools would you suggest (hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc)?
I only use an axe and I bet that with time and pacience I can wreck all your work
For me the router is number 3 after those two.
Absolutely agree! You can always use a hand saw of course, but a good circle saw will take a lot of problems away. That said, I love my compound mitre saw. The only thing is after spinal surgery i can’t lift it lol! Makita, superb product.
Cool video man.
For me,table saw and a hammer drill driver
No DIYer should be using a circular saw-too dangerous, especially since they are mostly working from home. Three tools–drill, panel saw, and chopsaw (no sliders). Fourth tool is your router. Stay safe. If you can’t afford a $2000 panel saw then an 18v or 20v cordless jigsaw with a set of straight edges, and a package of Bosch T345XF blades. Stay safe with all your fingers.
Outstanding video brother, your professionalism is greatly appreciate it!!
I agree with both and I guessed those were what you picked. To round out first tools, depending on what you’re doing, I’d get a reciprocating saw and a multi-purpose tool.
Only need a chorded drill since most lumber yards will cut for you, which is probably safer for us diy-ers. I’m a new diy-er and I’ve already built my wife a patio sofa, a coffee table and a waist high planter box with just a chorded drill. You can too!
I agree.
circular saw and impact drill
Thank you! This is very useful!
My first go to power tools are 18v combi drill ( i have makita 18v) and orbital sander (I have metabo 150mm)
For cutting i used for years standard push hand saw and fine cuts japanese pull saw.
Hey Bro, big hi from Oz, hope you are staying well amidst lock down.
You “happened” to have picked the beasts I would consider the most versatile.
Being in Australia & being “old”, I can relate to a culture 50 years back when the majority of chippies MIGHT have one or two power tools (I worked for my neighbour for a short while, the circular saw sped up framing but everything else was powered by elbow grease. I know he had an electric drill, but never saw him use it; it had a cord, not nearly as convenient as today’s multitude of cordless things )
I’ve never gained any formal qualifications, just learned in the school of hard knocks so you would laugh yourself stupid watching me mangle chunks of dead tree. But having dealt with the aftermath of a (very very experienced) carpenter/cabinet maker who took a liberty with a circular saw, I have a healthy respect for high speed sharp edges. (Tragically, nothing could be done in another case; an assistant holding the guard back on a circ saw cut his femoral artery and bled out)
For the tree chunk wrangling I do these days, I find a table saw & a compound mitre saw really useful.
I know tradies who have 3 or 4 cordless drills, each with a drill bit for a specific task. It can really speed up certain repetitive tasks. Time is money…
Thank you (& Steve R & Leah) for steadily improving my technique
Mark
My tool’s are all German made Bosch or Makita.
I love my Makita most but use my bosh for real heavy jobs that I wouldn’t want to subject my Makita tools to.🤗
You don’t need any power tools!! If you are not able to use hand tools, you are no ‘craftsman’.
I just got myself a B&D 12v, and I’m mainly just fastening Ikea stuff and holes in doors/wall to hang stuff. Good enough?
FYI it’s a significant improvement over my 3.6v electric screw driver
Wife:will you build me a shelf?
Me: ill need to buy a car lift, saws, and other random stuff..
I also need a boat to venture out & ponder how I shall build said shelf 😂
at my house every new project materials list comes with the power tools that will help me get the job done better and faster figured into the cost of the project.
@हिन्दी Hindi Chess exactly!
And a Guitar
@James Cheever remember when our better halves go clothes shopping haha
Work with wood is about cutting, fastening, and finishing. You need a saw, drill and a sander.
That’s why its only titled 2 and not 3 or so… He’s right on both (barest minimum) 🙂
@Zane Orton Agreed. You can do everything without power tools technically. The point of them is making jobs easier and outside of cutting and joining which he shared, I agree a Random Orbital Sander would be my next choice of power Tool. Sanding by hand (especially anything other than a tiny job) is a bitch.
@ivanlagrossemoule took a couple years. She isnt perfect, but better 😉
@Badenhawk Your wife got better at handling your caulk?
@Badenhawk It’s awesome when she helps. Gives my work real meaning beyond just enjoying it.
I guessed what they were before he said
can’t agree; drill and jigsaw it is.
a good jigsaw is more versatile, (depending on the blade) does fair enough cuts and is way less dangerous, if we’re talking diy.
you talk too much.
dangit…i just bought a miter saw 😆 Im a first time DIY’er. although for me i do like that the miter saw is stationary and stable vs a circular saw.
mitre saws are invaluable for trim projects.
Not to worry… you’ll be buying many more tools as you go along they are all needed at some point.
I agree with you, but I would add a reciprocating saw to that list.
I would say circular saw and IMPACT drill.
Is it good for cement wall… I think hand drill has two kinds one for wood and the other one is for concrete…. I’m planning to buy hand drill, but no idea what brand is OK for me
being a female…btw… I’m already 50 years old…. Thanks.
I like 15 amp porter cable saw, blade is on the left side,but I loved one of those mikita saws to death… to many hard days
This right here is what I’ve been youtube and googling for a month. Like a ray of sunshine your video showed up on my recommended viewing. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I agree with both choices, but I’d choose a corded drill.
I totally agree.
this is the only video i need. thanks.
A makita track plunge saw would be better then a circular saw.
I’d probably swap the circular saw for a track saw. Makita make an amazing track saw. The ability to plunge cut and get straight cuts with the included rail make it an outright upgrade to the circular saw in my opinion. You can also use it free hand without the rail. I agree with the drill though.
cutting a 2×4 with a track saw is possible?
I think this would have been a really good 2 minute video…
This could have been an email
Too late for me!😁
I knew you were naming those two tools… 🙂
I agree with you but I also love the orbital sander and the router.
I also own a finishing nail (and stapler) gun, because I do many projects that involve upholstery.
Thanks for the very useful video…
You Nailed it! No hammer needed 🙃🙂👍
Is he saying dyi?
I do sculpture, am familiar with many tools, however, I am horrible at accuracy. I can never rip repetitive sizes of long strips of wood. (the same width).
An electric sander would be nice.
Oh
I would vote for a chisel and handsaw 😉
Ewww corded
Circular saw and a drill?
I’m REALLY new to this whole subject – my profession is software. I had to convert a cargo trailer to a camper for my son to use. My brother has a workshop with everything on the planet inside. I mean EVERYTHING. I didn’t have time to learn all that stuff, and ended-up using primarily two tools – a circular saw and a drill. That said, I would say that if you’re doing any demolition or rebuilding on old houses, that you need a third tool – an oscillating tool, like the Fein Multimaster. I’m not talking large-scale demolition, but pulling-out drywall and rewiring in a existing house, doing PVC plumbing, fixing water damaged doorjambs, etc. – my Fein oscillating tool is perfect.
I was so surprised you didn”t choose the Skilsaw! I go to a lot of jobsites in my work (insurance inspector) and that is virtually all I see. That and Dewalt make up all of the power tools. The worm drive saw is ubiquitous. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to correct you. You’re the expert and I value your know-how above others, it is just surprising.
I have to agree with you on the tools, though. As a VERY novice wood worker (woodplayer?) I have a table saw and a circular saw and I use the table saw, or at least the table, but not nearly as much s the circular saw. And I could see myself getting by without it.
Whenit comes to acquiring a lot of tools, a quote from Star Trek (the original and ONLY one) keeps coming to mind: “You will find that having is not such a great thing as wanting”. So true, Spock. So true.
Will u say which are those two tools or i need to waste my youth and retirement before you spit it ?
Yea… i have both!
Ciao HC, the shipping cost of the Dewalt 20 V to Italy are €86,- we do have an Amazon.it here. Which brand model do you advice? Shippingcost with Prime are zero.
Should i go for Makita? Grazie Bastiano
The features of the screws also make a big difference (yes, more expensive).
Self tapping tips, torque reduction threads, knurls, countersinking nibs and torx drive heads make driving screws a breeze. I found that Simpson Strong Tie make some of the best in my market. DSVR and SDWS style.
star head screws are a life saver
Called it.
Cool! Exactly my thoughts. With a cordless drill and a hand-circular saw, it basically is possible to do everything in a woodworkersshop. It may cost more time but still, you can make miter cuts, rip cuts and what have you. And the cordless drill will screw, drill holes, saw holes, sand (with an diy sand spindle). So if you need to buy your first tools, buy at least a cordless drill and a circular saw. You will be able to build Noah’s arc and safe the planet ad humanity!
Another benefit, might your diy effort evolve, then there are many cool gadgets on the market to upgrade your shop with. Like more specialized tools to increase the speed in which you whip out finished glorious projects.
Just bought a jigsaw. Oh well, whats new. I always F up 🙁
Depends. Still buy the circular saw. I have a jigsaw as well and that comes out whenever you need something more than just straight cuts.
I think some folks in the comments are getting lost here. I fully agree for a DIY carpenter, the circular saw and the cordless drill are the first two tools you need, and for carpentry may just be the only power tools you even need. It gets more complicated when dealing with finish work or furniture making, and it seems folks here are not thinking about just the basics needed for rough carpentry. Even then, if the budget is the primary concern, hand tool versions of everything else work just fine.
Having a shop with all the fancy tools, when I’m out building a deck or putting up a wall, the drill and the skillsaw are the first things I grab… though the cheap, small, 30 year old, 8 1/4″ miter saw I have usually comes along as well, while the nice new, shiny one stays at the shop.
So tool 3 in my opinion? a cheap chop saw. Doesn’t need to be amazing, just a little faster, easier to use, and safer than a circular saw and will do everything you need in carpentry… right up until you need to rip some sheet goods.
With the prices of combo kits these days, a drill/impact set is also a good choice so you don’t have to keep swapping bits.
Recently I did wood work including a new fully modular kitchen.
The carpenters brought only 2 power tools to do the work
1. Circular saw
2.Torque screwdriver cum drilling machine
I fully agree with you👍👍👍👌👌👌
Correct in choices. Problem is make suggestions “most pros use”. Being in carpentry and general construction my entire life, the prevelant saw utilized by pros, would be the tried and true Skilsaw. Also, nowadays, with the different types of bits geared towards impacts drivers, a good 18v impact driver would be better than a standard drill/driver.
What do you think about the M18 Fuel 7-1/2 inch circular saw rear handle? Been thinking about getting one if they ever go on sale.
Agree. I wouldn’t trade my Skilsaw’s for a Makita any day. Not saying Makita isn’t good. Not even close to being the standard of a Skilsaw worm drive.
Milwaukee’s 3/8th stubby impact wrench is like the power of God in your hands for engine bags and lugs. Only like $130 and it’s compact as hell.
Excellent advice. Thank you so much.
A great reminder in this day and age where we all are chasing the latest and greatest.
2:52 you’re welcome.
💯 agree
Hmm, no sanding – ok you sand by hand but still?
Put ordinary bar soap on a screw before you drive it home then do one without soap you will notice the difference right away. Ive been doing that for 50 years from an apprentice. Oil grease no good. This was before cordless to as we used the yankee pump driver. Was hard work without soap
@Patrick Ellah In the 🚿
How do you apply the soap?
Funny, the first 2 tools I bought when we bought the house were a Dewalt 20v drill and a B&D circular.
Power tool you absolutely need:
Skill Saw
Jig Saw
Drill Gun
Miter Saw
Sander
Luxury tools to get later on:
Table Saw
Oscillating Tool
Air compressor
Impact wrench
Grinder
The drill is right for almost anybody that is considering just two power tools. The choice of the saw varies a bit. I can see that some people might want to go with a jig saw. It’s more versatile for small hobby type work and there is a learning curve with a circular saw that the jig saw mostly doesn’t have.
My top 2 are Drill & Grinder.
Good, honest common sense.
You’re #1 and #2 are absolutely correct. I would only add as the third an orbital hand sander. and as a fourth the dremel, I also find I end up needing metal cut, and metal pipes cut, so that adds my other go to tool: the 4.5″ angle grinder.
I agree.
first time seeing one of your videos and I mostly agree with your choices though I would argue that if you’re going to buy a saw, buy a worm drive or hypoid gear saw, especially if you’re right handed. Why? More power, more versatility, usually built with better parts and the sight lines are on the correct side for the majority of people. Second, most drills come in a set so you might as well recommend the impact driver right along side the cordless drill. However, for the DIY’er 18V is a little on the heavy side, especially with the amount of power you can get from the little 12V stuff now. And yes, Makita is a great brand. Just my two cents.
I worked in a carpentry shop each summer during college. This advice is the same thing I was told on day 1. We carried our drivers and circular saws to each site while the majority of the other tools sat in the shop.
I don’t really see the point of these kinds of “only x number of y” videos. Corded tools are virtually free these days. If you know someone that makes their living with tools just ask them for any old hand me downs they might have. Chance are you’ll end up deluged with yesteryears tools.
I agree, the only two power tools I started with both were corded. The next I bought was a jigsaw
Anybody here drill holes with an impact? Can’t imagine that works well
Use impact for drilling into masonry and concrete
I think you need to add an oscillating saw as a must have for a homeowner. It is versatile and useful for small remodeling projects; i.e. cutting a square hole into a wall, making a flush cut, cutting nails to remove siding without damaging the siding, etc.
Great advice for the DIYer – thanks!
Agree…two basic tools.
should cirular saw be replace with angle grinder? can do the task of a circular but can do much more(change blade,grind,cut polish, plane etc.), and more portable, just my 2 cents
The RPM is too high (13000 rpm, compare that to 5000 rpm on circular saw). It can be dangerous to use angle grinder as daily saw, especially without dead man switch like in circular saw.
I’m kind of blown away by the fact that carpentry wasn’t invented until these two power tools came into existence. 😉
Nice job.
Do you have an opinion on cordless circular saws? For the same convenience as the cordless drill but do they have enough power?
I watched this knowing in my sinking heart that you’d say skill saw (circular saw) but hoping you wouldn’t! I was never so relieved as when my broke – I just don’t feel safe using them.
Any suggestions of videos for newbies? Especially small-framed, small-handed newbies? Mine just always felt too heavy for me to control well with any kind of nuance with my hand size and strength.
Thanks to you all for the suggestions. I’m going to take your advice and start again with a smaller saw to gain confidence and learn how they handle etc.
I have adopted a kinda OCD procedure checklist before I use my circular saw. I tap my safety glasses, I tap the plug that is plugged into the extension cord and then follow the wire to the base of saw, noting I’m not cutting through it, I then put my one hand on the trigger and look at my other thumb. Once I confirm my other thumb is clear of the blade, I then can pull the trigger. I do this 3 times before I start for the day, and then once before each use.
My father was a carpenter and insisted I learn during the summer so I could have a skill but also feel safer with the tools. Start small, be overly cautious and don’t tackle big projects initially. I agree with the other comment that mentioned smaller saws. You’ll feel more confident in the grip and safety and can work your way back up to the standard size. If all else fails, get scrap wood and just cut; like anything you’ll gain that confidence and awareness of the tool which is part of skill- building.
I saw a mini circular saw on Amazon the other day. I don’t know how effective they are in the eyes of professional carpenters bit it had good reviews, ppl seemed to like it.
Well done !
For me? Multitool & drill-driver. My multitool is invaluable. The plunge blade gets loads of places a saw can’t, yet I’ve used it to cut softwood, hardwood, and metal. Admittedly, I haven’t done many larger projects, just maintenance – skirting boards, doors, door frames, etc.
Thinking about a sander as have to sand and restain 20 windows this summer, though reviews for many detail sanders aren’t great as the pads are proprietary. Are they really worth it, or is sanding by hand easier in the long run?
Excellent video!!! I am just getting started with some diy projects and was getting a bit of information overload with the choices out there and this video made it clear what type of tools to start with. Now I need to figure out the brand and budget. Thanks for this video. I’m sure I’ll watch more of these as I progress with my projects.
Pff a lot of words to state the obvious.. saw and drill. There you have it.
Just use what you need. If you can’t do something with what you have, buy what you need. Don’t just buy something because someone says it’s indispensable.
masha Allah, thank you for the good advice, budgeting for a makita circular saw 😁 …how about a vid on building a circular saw table (removable) bro …subbed 😉
This is blasphemy. Every married man knows that the only thing that makes building your wife a new dresser every 2 years based on the current trends is the excuse to spend ridiculous amounts of money on tools you don’t really need. Even doing that is less expensive that buying the furniture at Crate and Barrel.
Wife bad
And duct tape.
Plus you can make her dresser from crates and barrels.
jajajajajajajaja, tienes toda la razon
😅😅😅
I get what you’re trying to say, but how many times have you EVER approached, let alone completed, a project like this? I would say you’re an idiot, but it’s all on me for clicking on this in the first place. I should have known when I saw the capitol letters and !!! exclamation marks. My bad.
How about a circular worm saw.
Thanks its very usefull info..
If I’m home based I’d say circular saw and a corded “hammer” drill. But wireless will do if I’m mobile.
Do I reaally need to buy the circular saw? can’t I just put a saw blade on the drill driver?
Great stuff. Tans for the tip 👍🏽
Saw? You can use grinder as saw, you can diy it to as a table saw or just plain handsaw.
While you cant use saw as grinders.
@The Honest Carpenter but you are talking about the versatility. While we can always add some precautions for the angle grinder to be safe and effective as circular saw or table saw.
I just did a video on using a grinder as a saw Jeremy. It’s not for the faint of heart. I couldn’t recommend new diyers do it. And it’s just not as accurate as power saws
Normally I would agree, but I just left a site where I forgot to bring my reciprocating saw. Just had my circular saw, cordless drill, and oscillating tool. I had to open up a cedar plank wall for an air conditioner, and I really missed it. I cut the centers with the circular saw, and had to use a hand rip saw to cut out the corners cause the oscillating blade crapped out on the drywall when I hit a batting staple. Woulda been so much easier if I could have drilled a pilot hole and gone to town with the sawzall.
I wouldn’t give up my circular saw, it gets work done. But I think a reciprocating saw can do everything a circular saw can do just as well, only sacrificing speed. With another panels straight edge or scrap as a guide a sawzall can rip just as straight. Slap a sanding disc in the drill to compliment it. I guess that’s my point… Maybe if it’s just two tools, it should be a reciprocating saw and drill for the DIY’er. Less safety concerns. Also like a drill, variable speed in a reciprocating saw is a big plus. Anyone else think a sawzall and drill are the perfect compliment?
I guessed right. But I prefer a worm drive with the blade on the correct side of the saw
I watched this video poised to rage when you didn’t say circular saw and drill (I do agree about the impact driver too), but you disappointed me by saying what I would have said. I would say that an impact driver could easily be bought at the same time as a drill, and a lot of the pictures showed lag screws, or maybe thru bolts, but your not gonna drive lags with a drill. You can, however, drive them with a socket set, which is not a power tool.
What about the router?
I had a beautiful metric, cordless, 3 speed Power-Tater 2000. My wife had sour cream and chives…so now I am back to hand tools like carrots
Even with a keyless chuck, after you’ve switched the 20th time between the drill bit and driver bit, you’d be wishing you had a second drill or impact driver.
And the list goes on. In the end, life will get easier, the more appropriate tools you have for whatever it is you’re trying to do. It’s amazing the quality of cordless sets you can get for a decent price. Even Ryobi or Black and Decker or some other cheaper “off brand” are making decent cordless sets and many of them brushless. Lowes has a very good tool selection for these, imho better than at HD.
@J J Exactly! 5 bucks for a bit holder and get some “speed” drills and you’re good to go.
Yes, having two drills or a drill and an impact driver is nice, but it’s not essential. You can get the job done with just the one drill, and if you’re a DIYer on a budget and not a pro, that’s probably what you’ll do.
Yep, that’s why a bought a driver+driver kit from AEG.
But you can drill all your pilot holes and then change bit… Maybe not all of them, but if you change bit 20 times, you are probably doing something wrong
Essentially I agree with you 99%. However most tool manufactures are offering 18/20 V drill and impact driver sets at a discount. Instead of a $90 drill you can get the same drill and an impact driver for $140. Yes, you’ve spent an extra 50 but you got a second tool and usually an extra battery. An extra namebrand battery is going to cost at least $35. It’s almost a wash and it’s much easier to drive screws with an impact driver… Especially for beginners And DIYers like myself.
For me it’s ankle grinder and drill.
no love for the power sander? i guess we could hand sand but i’d be completing far less projects without one.The other two I own are an impact drill and circular saw
I used a sharpened potato to enslave other people and make them do all the work.
I would add a mitre saw in the midst…
I recently bought one and I absolutely love it!
My circular saw is great and all
But I greatly appreciate the use of my mitre saw!
I will use my circular saw more when I find a guide system to cut straight lines… The one that came with my circular saw didn’t help much
small mini saw is lighter and easier to handle than full 7″ circular saw and I use it much more often.
Im not believing you did a 2:30 intro, and at 330 finally got around to the 2 tools. Was there any doubt?
Really ????
I agree with you. Those two tools are used in absolutely any woodworking project.
Those two tools will actually also show how truly skilled you are as a carpenter. I’ve seen many professional framers that can rip a sheet of plywood where it looks like it was cut with a panel saw. Ironically enough, it seems that part of the trick is the speed. Cutting quickly & confidently without hesitating seems to give the most accurate cut. Personally, my next two choices would be the tablesaw & the router. The miter box is great, but it’s largely a timesaver & convenance rather then a necessity . That said, you can never have too many tools!
I think a good plunge/track saw an inexpensive 18v drill and 3.6 volt driver would be a better way to spend your money it’s will get you breaking down and more accurately sizing and squaring sheet material for cabinetry quickly low voltage battery drivers have enough torque unless you are diving long screws and doing heavy timber framing, and it frees you up from constantly swapping bits.
Mikita skilsaws are workhorses..
Was getting ready to blast you but then listened to the argument and yes you are correct.
I don’t think a lot of the commenters listened👂🏼 to the video
This is one of the videos that’s worth to watch. Compact with info and pin-point accuracy to deliver such. Thanks!
Mate, what are you DOING….. Your membership to manhood is hereby revoked, if my wife see’s this there is all kinds of trouble coming
How about next week you do a “Why a cyclist really only needs ONE BIKE” or “Budget 4×4…. not a fantasy” 😁😆😅🤣😂
Cut yourself a curve with a circular saw.
A 10 inch drill press will make more project easier, more accurate and professional results, almost a must.
I haven’t cut a curve for 20 years. Over rated unless you like making cake holders and flower stands.
Drill and a reciprocating saw. You learn how to cut straight lines. At one point I only had enough money for one other tool that can do everything.
Huh. I thought you were going to say ‘hammer and screw driver’. Ha ha. I mean, you can power through anything with those two tools. Nah, great tips. Yeah, this is the kit I had (circular saw, cordless drill) for the longest time. Good stuff.
very clear video, as DIYeers, ive got these two only .. yeay .. and so far its working for me .. may be I need nail powertool.. but all good . thanks for great video
before watching I said drill and jigsaw soooo close I guess, just a sidenote though you said a jigsaw is not great at a straight cut at the same time saying that you should use a guide with a circular saw which is true because if they fuck up they do it REALLY quickly…well you can do a long straight cut on a jigsaw with a guide too, and also you can do chamfer cuts on a jigsaw almost all have a notched baseplate for cutting angles and some of the more expensive ones have a nut and slide like a circular saw and you can get longer blades for more cutting depth so while you are right if you’re doing a straight long cut yes I myself would rather my circular saw but only because I already have one and it is faster not really any other reason and a jigsaw can freehand where a circular cant so theres something one can explicitly do that the other can’t.
Totally agree on the kind of tools. Makita it’s a workhorse and i like those, however my favorite is the DW364 with the depth regulator on top, electric brake and base shoe adjuster to keep it aligned with the blade. Cordless I’d choose Ryobi because all the versatility of choices they’ve come out…and probably 3rd choice a multitool.
Ryobi is what I stay away from. Quality has gone downhill. Harbor freight has probably one upped them nowadays. It’s that bad, too much slop in their tools. I will never get another table or miter saw or any other tool from them. You can feel it in the materials. Ends of table saw fence where made of zinc alloy, and broke on me. Only thing they got going for them is the name.
Yep ..true
As a DYI.you speak to my jobs
So on point
I have the jigsaw ..feels safer..but takes so long to cut sometimes..will research circular saw
Drill
I have two..plug in one..and yes it keeps spinning
And 12 volts ..agree not enough power
Great concise info ! As a female who has just decided to make a couple of simple timber projects, I’m feeling confident now..I’ve found both those tools in my hubby’s garage & I aim to use them! ( when he’s at work lol) and yes I will be super careful
Obvious clickbait but just needed to see which those tools are, out of curiosity. Yeah, you can’t do that much with those alone. Who would have guessed that there aren’t two magical tools that do it all?
0:17 Same here, totally overwhelmed with power tool options..
…so in 2019 I decided to start and stick to one brand (ryobi-kenobi) …
I got the cheap (beginners) brand.
and if they fail me…I will move onto another brand ( ?? Mikita / Milwaukee or Dewault ?? )….Sticking with one brand , saves me alot of headaches and frustrations…
been 2 yrs, with ryobi..and going strong.
I really like your sharing..of your build photo’s …well done..you’ve done alot…gave me some good ideas..thanks for that. 😎👍💯🌟🌟
You consider ryobi a “cheap brand”? Not around these parts.
Ryobi tools are great for diy, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. I did maintenance tech for 10 years, used DeWalt and Milwaukee mostly because they will definitely stand up better for hard use. But as soon as I switched profession, I sold of my Red and Yellow and moved into Ryobi and Ridgid. Much more affordable and with brushless tech and how far tools have come powerwise in the past few years, they will last all my home projects easily.
Without watching, I’m going to go with a drill and a skill saw. Every homeowner needs to own those two tools.
I would say a welding machine and an angle grinder. Wood is so squishy! 🤣
@Meaux Jeaux I think I just started a whole. New meme here.. 😂
@John Banks That’s about the same time that I did also.
And a brain. lol
I bought both and don’t regret it, my friend who is a carpenter told me this last year – Im so glad I listened and watched this video, just reminded me – I have to tackle wood stairs – :-0
Best time to purchase tools needed is around father’s day and Christmas.
Speak about it, the only time I will buy an expensive tool or set of tool
Could not be further from the truth.
Fantastic
I have pneumatic brad nailers. I use them to fasten everything. They allow me to fasten stuff with so much ease and with one hand. I couldn’t live without them.
Circular saw and drill…
Jesus… on and on and on…. dragged you through hell to find out what they are… 👎🏻
Thank you sir Honest Carpenter
I agree with your assessment.
Great video. I’d say you need three power tools though – the two you mentioned plus a sander.
I say the same.
Yeah idk if I would pick makita over skilsaw especially as a full time carpenter if I showed up to the jobsite with one of those I’m pretty sure it wouldn’t last a week but I do get where your coming from
An 1800 Watt $250 Makita circular saw wouldn’t last a week? They are unbreakable. The base plate is 4mm steel. Your the only person who I have heard say you can break a pro quality Makita circular saw.
Me a Grinder cuter and a Power drill .
I’ve been a carpenter for 30years now . The best tool I’ve ever bough was my 18v Makita rip saw . It’s such a great tool and I use it loads . My other cordless tools are mainly all Makita as well , so I have plenty of batteries to get through even a heavy working day . We don’t get Skilsaw here in Scotland , but they look awesome as well .
I like your video style, and appreciate the content. It’s commendable that you are encouraging people to have the confidence to do DIY project by telling them that they only need 2 tools, and it’s basically true that you don’t need many tools for most very simple home repairs.
However, I don’t really see the value in this beyond giving people inspiration. There are many tasks that would be quite challenging if not impossible with only those tools that most DIYers encounter regularly. You certainly don’t need to buy a whole pile of tools in advance, but, try laying tile without a tile saw, or installing crown without a miter saw and a nail gun. Not to mention that the largest cost is the material costs, and you own the tools forever. and often the right tools are just a fraction of the project and can get the job done faster, easier and better. I think it would be better to have a project in mind, and address the tool needs based on the project, although, a drill/driver is a must have for basically anyone. There are many ways to not spend on tools, you can borrow, rent, buy used, go for discount brands like Ryobi or Harbor Freight.
I had these 2 tools for years. Then I got a table saw, and suddenly I could cut down lumber to the size I needed. Breaking 2 x 4 to 1x 2 etc. Then I got a plunge saw and could do exact cuts. I would say at least a table saw is a great investment, and a plunge saw for quality cuts.
Table saw with some sleds and jigs…. you can’t beat that.
I am a diyer since buying my own home. I own two power tools, a black and decker cordless drill, and a circular saw. It is all I need…
Drill and jigsaw.
That’s how you do cut and fasten put it together cut it and fasten it You don’t have to measure anything I think about it just cut it and put it together man
I’m a newbie. What about routing? can drills handle it?
No. The issue is there is no way to effectively control the depth of you routing bit in a drill. If you have to route a piece of material you will need a router. Depending on your needs a trim router may be all you need. However a larger router will handle the larger bits and the base plate can be attached to a table effectively giving you a table router which makes the process safer and easier. Hope this helps.
Just got a makita circular saw. Can’t wait to use it…as soon as the batteries arrive!😆
4:30 nope, there’s also longer blades on the market
Thank You very much… as a beginner in wood working this was god sent.
Great video!!! I started with a jigsaw and a drill. Since I only was interested in building furniture it was a better combo for me.
Achieving straight cuts with a jigsaw can be done but you absolutely need to use a straight edge with every cut. I started by using the manufactured edge of a sheet of plywood for rip cuts. For cross cuts, I used a speed square. They also sell longer blades that can cut through 2x materials so that isn’t an issue.
I still agree with this video. If I were doing household diy and not specifically furniture, I’d choose the same combination.
People also ask me which tools to start with. I always reply exactly the same. Pick a project then buy what you need to get the job done. Simple.
I my humble opinion I would say a recip saw can do decent cuts for framing and are the shit for demo
Yup, my choices too. For the longest time all I could afford were a skilsaw and an electric drill.
My set of essential diy power tools in order of importance: cordless drill driver, circular saw, cordless impact driver, oscillating multi tool, 125mm random orbital sander, Hikoki finishing nailer, 125mm angle grinder, planer, reciprocating saw, rotary hammer drill.
Which wood filler were you using in this video ?
If you watch the sales you can often get a drill/driver combo for the regular price of just the drill.
Maybe it’s just all the stuff I build and work on, but I need my jigsaws and table saws. I have 4 circ saws and about six drills, so those are a definite too!
For a DIYer ???
Makita commercial, well done!
I need to make ***perfect*** frames. I am an artist. A drill and circular saw can do this? eileenjohnstonfineart.com
@Ed O’Neill That’s just mean, and I don’t think he was asking, it was a rhetorical question.
It can be done with these two tools but I’d recommend a mitre saw, much more precise for newbies. For fastening you probably don’t want screws for an art frame, you want nails and wood glue. Depending on the size of your frames you probably want 23g or 18g nailers.
I think that this video is aimed at the mythical “average” DIYer who could be doing any thing from home repairs to building furniture. As an artist your projects for the foreseeable future are limited to making frames. At the very least you need a miter saw. For a simple rectangular frame there are only 8 cuts needed so unless you need to make a lot of frames at once you wouldn’t need a power one. If you do opt for a power miter saw you probably don’t need one that does compound angles or a sliding one that cuts wider stock. I’m not sure the drill would be an absolute necessity for you but it might come in handy.
I own 2 Makita tools, a corded drill, and a table saw. Both suck. My experience with them has made me decide to never buy anything else from them.
As for your choice of the 2 most frequently used; you can make the most stuff with these 2 tools; yah, I agree. Those two are hard to live without.
Okay, I agree those are indispensable. But… you may be doing a disservice to people that don’t already know that there is one tool that can actually do almost anything that needs to be done when building things that actually require finesse and skill. I am not talking about framing or rough carpentry. But with furniture making or Joinery, you can use a router to do almost any job, with the exception of the glue-up. You’ll need clamps for that, but for everything else you could use a router to get it done. I am not saying that the router is the best and most efficient way to go for everything but I am saying if you had nothing else you could achieve what needs to be done with a router. It is, without a doubt, the most versatile tool in the shop, bar none.
Yes. Precisely. And when we get into hand tools, much can be achieved with the humble hammer. Construction AND destruction to name a few.
Matt Harris }}}
You hit the nail on the head there, big man.:-D
You can’t argue with the FBH :-D:-D:-D..especially in the Refurb, Do It Upper business, when time & budget are at a premium…..
When in doubt…resort to RIO with the FBH.:-D:-D:-D
Then employ the the Circular Saw & Hand Drill…..
Makita, of course.!!!
For example the three main tools used in the engineering construction industry are:
The hammer
The BIG hammer and
The FBH. (BH stands for big hammer)
Jig saw and drill.. before watching the vids..
Absolutely true. Whenever I work with people who aren’t in construction, they always want to set up the table saw/chop saw for the silliest little things that don’t have to be that precise. A lot of the time you can get the job done by the time you would have spent setting up a chop/table saw and a compressor!
“Carpentry is about two things – cutting and fastening” – putting that on a big notice above my work bench for those times I get into an over thinking spiral.
@SlimDoug Maddox The amount of measuring should always be more than the amount of cutting.
@Petra Xander …to construct boxes”
don’t forget measuring.
@LazyCrazyGuy You should feel good about at least doing something other than staring at some screen.
Same idea
Circular saws are dangerous for beginner DIY’ers learning off of YouTube. I’m no expert, but I’ve done some research into the topic. I hope this is of use. I think advice should be staged, depending on the purpose that the user would like to address. Tools should be purchased insequence, according to tiers.
1. If you want to out together IKEA furniture faster and hang stuff on the wall, buy a cordless drill and a cordless impact driver.
2. If you want to build some shelves for your garage and some planters, etc. for use around the house and garden, get a Mitre Saw and a pocket hole set. The Mitre Saw is probably the safest power tool with a rotating blade (because of blade direction and fixture) and the least likely to eat your fingers. You can cut dado and rabbets with it too.
3. A random orbital sander, because you might need to strip stuff or polish wood (do not exceed 220 grain) prior to painting.
4. Router and router table, if you are a neat freak and want things to look good. At this stage, you can even flatten roughcut lumber for patio furniture, so that’s where I plan to stop.
5. Table saw is completely optional IMO. I buy my indoor furniture. Big box stores can cut sheet products for you, with approximately 1/8″ tolerances if the operator is in a good mood. Since I’m not making anything intricate, that’s usually good enough.
Excellent video.
Just been looking at my carpenters tools box from my apprenticeship days (pre cordless power tools)
5x hand planes plus spare blades
4x hammers
3-4x saws
Bit’s and brace roll
Screwdriver bits for the brace
Screwdrivers
Full chisel set and mallet
Oil stone and guides
Tapes measure
straight edges
Bevels
Pencils
Etc etc etc
How on earth did I carry this thing!
You were virile, strong, and good looking back then. Those days have gone.
I would like to know you’re opinion about festool. Because you said that makita is the best. Bu I think festool is better with there track saw. Festool is much more expensive but you do get get some good tools.
If you only need two power tools, then send me all the other tools you have.
👌🏿
I was just thinking about the issue, I am a beginner in carpentry, I felt very happy to listen to you, with much more experience than me, and exactly the same two power tools, I felt indispensable!
Likewise
Agreed with you
Yes! But I use my 18V circular saw (same batteries as the drill) 98 percent of the time. Not as powerful as the mains saw, and the batteries do get hot after some hard use, but the saw is very flexible, light and a bit safer. I think! This said as an amateur with an old wooden house.
Wow this is great news, now I’m gold! Hmmm but maybe I should also get one of those hammers?.. Oh and maybe one of those L shaped things.. Oh and maybe some kind of levelly thingy with the bubbles in it .. hmm and maybe one of those vibrating spinning things with an electrical cord on it for making dust .. yeah and I’m prolly gonna need one of those things with the pockets on a belt.. maybe a few of those nonriding donkeys.. yeah I think I might need one of those jiggle saws .. ya know I think I may want one of those saws with legs.. and, and, and, and …………….
Hand saw and screwdriver….😂🤣
The Honest Carpenter 👍🤣😂
Yes but only if you have a bionic arm 🦾
i have to keep this video away from my wife…or its the end of my tool collection.
I just tell my wife you want this built i neeeed this tool. 60% of the time she caves the other 40 she tells me I’m a more than capable d.i.yer. so the vertical bandsaw’s gonna have to wait.
I don’t have issues with her shoe collection. There’s no way I’d let her decide what tools I need. Haha
@Frances Hawe ain’t that the truth!! 🤣😂🤣😂
I love my tools more than my designer purses.
It’s the work that I have done with those tools –
Not 1 item, neither purse nor tool,
was purchased from my exhusband –
I was able to purchase the designer purses myself.
I got tired of my tools getting damaged ( by him ) & he hated the fact
that I was more comfortable with a circular saw than mascara
Don’t get me wrong I can hang with the girls if I need/have to
But I will give the guys a run for their money…believe that😉
Man….. haha ha
I make furniture and even housesm, the best power tool it`s cordless drill 18 v, the second it`s the jigsaw, the 3rd it`s angle grinder which can sand and the forth it`s circular saw. Circular saw can`t cut round shapes.
I’d say router and tracksaw personally
but I am more of a joiner
The last operation every carpenter does with any wood work is “sanding”. So in my opinion, there are 3 essential power tool: circular saw, drill and a sander.
Yeah but DIY’ers rarely ever complete a project.. so it’s probably not needed.
And seeing as you endorse (pretty obviously I know) cordless drills, do you endorse cordless circular saws too, especially as one could buy the same battery platform over the one brand.
I’m yet to have one Aiyic! They just weren’t powerful enough until a few years ago. I’m hoping makita will just start sending me stuff soon though 😄
Agree 100%
I completely agree. I thought you were going to go with tablesaw and was very pleased you cited hand circular saw. I was in construction and even now retired and doing smaller projects my Makita circular saw and 18V drill/driver are my most used. As others have said next would be a random-orbital sander for finishing.
I agree with most of what he says, but I will NOT buy another cordless drill (or anything that uses a battery). I have a big stack of them, with batteries that I can NOT charge and even worse, I can NOT replace. Seems most of the companies out there changes styles of their batteries every year or couple of years. So what you buy this year may or may not fit your drill in a few years. I will drag that cord around and yeah it is a pain but it still will work years after non-use. Just my opinion to which I am entitled.
Agreed. I think this would be helpful to beginning DIY’ers. how about a comprable video with non power tools? What would be your minimal set? Like, a pencil and a square and some type of tape measure?
I 100 percent agree. As a DIY-er who has very limited workspace, the circular saw is not only versatile, it’s easier to store than a large miter saw, or table saw. I will however add, try and get a HAMMER drill instead, to get an even wider range of uses from it. Any cordles version will do. Just make sure it’s a decent brand, not a cheap cause you will use that thing A LOT. Also, if you have the extra money, get an impact driver as well. And this mainly to cut down on TIME. Impacts are much more effective at driving those screws with a lot less effort on the user.
PS: Dont forget an orbital sander!
I agree, but I use 2 screwdrivers. 1 for drilling & 1 for the screwing part & you don’t have to swap from drill bit to screw bit. It saves a lot of time.
Yea I discovered this by happy accident when the charger failed just out of warranty for my drill/drver and it was same price to replace it with a new drill driver with battery and charger than to buy a new charger. Quality of DIY life improved 200 percent.
have none of you ever used a flip over bit drill bit one end driver bit the other
As an amateur diy woodworker, drilling a wood is very2 occasionally, i never pilot hole or kreigjig or whatever i just blast alot of screw into the wood and thats fine, diy grade fine tho 😁😁😁
All of my projects seem to involve drilling a bunch of countersinks or counter bores in addition to pilot holes, so I’m glad I have two drills and an impact driver.
That’s funny, and it’s the exact reason that I usually carry five cordless drills with me at all times. Well not actually on my person, but in my rig.
When I saw the title I thought, ‘circular saw and cordless drill’. I have too many tools – I’m a tool junky. But despite generally having ‘just the right tool for the job’, I often do jobs with a circular saw and a drill. And I use a cordless circular saw these days; I’m amazed at how powerful they are now.
I built everything in my apartment with 2 power tools. One screw driver and another screwdriver. But if I could work outdoors and needed to make long cuts I’d get a circular saw. I used to have one before I moved across the world, and though I’ve gotten great at using a handsaw, it’s a pain to cut long boards.
I dunno… my DIY has tended to be home repair/renovation. Painting, kitchens, floors, trim and I’d take a miter saw over a circular saw any day of the week. Then again, most cuts I’ve made are things like herringbone floors and skirting/baseboards, which needs repeatable and precise angles. I’d even take that jigsaw before the circular saw for my use.
Come to think of it, for what I’ve actually used, I’d take a multitool-type saw and a miter saw, because the amount of fastening done when doing interior renovations isn’t that much. A couple of kitchen cupboards can be hung using a manual screwdriver.
A DIY’er doesn’t have to worry about portability, and YES circular saws are dangerous. Since a DIY’er almost always does 90 degree or 45 degree cuts, I’d switch the circular saw to a table saw including a rolling stand, plus add a homebuilt sled, making sure to tune and adjust the table saw as soon as it’s taken out of the box. Dado’s can be done without a dado stack, using several cuts and a chisel.
I agree for the most part. But in my humble opinion A miter saw is a must have. I had to build a training prop, It need multiple different pieces cut to the same size so from a time stand point a miter saw was a must, now I use it for everything.
As a beginner hobbyist I need my drill most often…next my track saw…then my multi tool and then my jigsaw and my router followed by my electric nail gun….and I think that’s all I will ever need
A Sawzall..!! Takes about 2 seconds to get the gist of it. Saw my dad cutting some tree roots with a handsaw and a pick. So I showed him my Milwaukee Sawzall with a Diablo carbide blade… Haven’t seen the old man more thrilled to cut down some dead trees! Lol.
I also have hundreds of tools, but I have had my Makita circular saw for as long as I remember, it is still a work horse. For the money if you are getting an 18v drill, you might as well get an impacter with the kit. With those three tools you could easily build yourself a deck or fence.
What causes the kickback from the circular saw. Is it wood that is twisted or binding? Scared the heck out of me
Several possible things Scott. Usually it’s pinching from the lumber flexing. I’ll do a video on it soon!
I can’t make straight lines with the jigsaw 🙁
Great video, but I prefer AEG for my saw and power drill. Agree with the choice of two tools.
The first two pro tools I bought were a 18v circular saw and a multitool, I already had a cheeper drill, I’ve since added many more pro tools and my one regret is choosing a circular saw over a plunge saw, plan to get one soon though as they look a lot easier to use on a track.
Great info, I’m interested in getting started woodworking & would love to see a series of videos dedicated to safety
Steel toe shoes/boots and eye protection first, then ear and dust mask (not N95 needed). Good luck
Very true
I agree. Before I heard what you were going to say, my guess was a circular saw and drill.
I agree, I came down in favour of Combi drill and Circ saw. Then I was 50:50 if I would swap the circ saw for a jigsaw and make do. Depend how much sheet material you’re working with versus doing more detailed work/ small bodges.
… and the 3rd? Router… 4th, sawzall…
call me fool but :
1/ large mitre saw
2/ festool domino
Any newbie can immediately do SAFELY and EASILY major diy projects, so you just have to buy planed wood and here we go.
I prefer my mitre to my circular as well, but the circ is definitely more versatile; can’t cut a sheet with a mitre.
Also, how can you possible rate a domino over a drill? You can’t do anything without a drill. I met a friend once, homeowner, and he didn’t own a drill. I honestly lost sleep over it. I don’t know how any household could not have a drill in it, makes me wonder if they are the type of people who the instructions on shampoo are aimed at.
Domino is such a niche item. And absurdly pricey.
Subscibed!
Ethan they definitely are the go to tools to have. The circular saw is hands down the most versatile power saw. I would go a step further and buy the drill/ driver with the hammer function. Then you get 3 in one. Attaching into masonry is a must learn DIY task. Thanks for sharing my man.
If you are just a light- medium DIYer, try the cordless or corded drill and a j saw.
You can always cut the few 2″” or thicker pieces by hand saw.
That’s how I started.
As you gets more serious later than you can add the circular saw.
That should pretty much complete the main frequency use power tools.
Does a diyer really need an 18volt drill? After going through a few crappy 18volt drills I now have a quality Milwaukee 12volt drill and impact driver. I’m not likely to exceed their capability and the weight and size is so much better. Agree with a quality corded circular saw. This is great for your first two, but you still need a few more eventually.
After thinking about it I figured the circular saw but wasn’t sure on number 2 till you pulled it out. I didn’t even think of the drill. That’s part of the body isn’t it? Not a tool.
Built two tables, box cabinet shelves, a dog house, and a baby bassinet with just a circular saw and drill so absolutely spot on
you can also turn the circular saw into a table saw with a jig
Great video. I completely agree with your choices. I also thought it was great that you stressed safety. A circular saw with its high speed, spinning blade can cause damage and injury very quickly when not being used safely.
One way to be a little safer, I think, when using the CS, clamp your workpiece down so you can keep both hands on the saw.
Finally, for the new DIY’er, consider starting with hands saws, some clamps, and the battery powered drill. Using hand saws will teach you about cutting at a much slower speed perhaps making cutting safer. Once you get some experience and confidence, you can reaccess your needs and perhaps move up to a CS.
100% true and then the next most important tools are a jigsaw for them small detailed bits, and then a mitre saw and a belt sander or angle grinder to shape things dependant on if you use any metal. I built my entire tiny house truck with these….It takes longer than dedicated tools but they only makes sense if your doing a big project with a lot of repetition.
My Makita 8 1/4 is still going strong after 37 years.
@Mera_Bharat_ Mahan
Legends in our own mind🤣
@bowm0
I never have and probably because of how they’ve been used at random. I think on one of them they could be replaced. A lot of the work I’ve been doing now I only use them to break down large sheets so they aren’t used a lot.
@Christopher Dean do you need to replace the brushes in that tool?
o boy we have all legends over here 😀
Cool story. My three Skil saw’s are still going strong after 45 years.😁
Yes I agree! I have done a lot with just those two tools. I used to build houses for a living.
I agree that for a newbie DYIer, a circular saw and a drill/driver would be the essential power tools. And as skill level increases and home projects become more involved, additional power tools should be added as needed.
4.5” angle grinder.
I think I need a cordless impact driver as a diy home guy. Great video thanks!
I agree with you on the Makita saw however, not all circular saws are created equal. I personally use my dads Makita hypoid saw which is a circular saw but better control IMHO. Makita drill/impact drivers, not so much. I would change that to 3 and maybe even 4 essential tools. I would add a sawzall to that list. There have been so many times it was the only saw able to get the job done. I would also add an impact driver to that list. My first good drill was a Ridgid and it was a work horse, however, it didn’t drive screws as well or as efficiently as an impact driver. Once I bought a Dewalt drill/driver combo I almost never drive screws with the drill.
I’m British so need an electric kettle over any power tool😂
Time for a cuppa…..
White with one ?.
I think the same! Great video!
I’m only a hobbyst, not a professional. At the biggining, I bought some power tools that I don’t use many times, except 2: the drill and a sanding machine. I prefer hand tools work. (sorry my english). Greetings from Chile.
I’d add a kreg jig. Be nice to hide all the joinery. I know it’s not necessary, but it is a cool and easy form of joinery that will work well with your two essential tools.
As circ saws go, you can find old Craftsman or Skilsaw’s on Craigslist on the cheap that just last forever. I bought my “Made in the USA” Sawmill for $15. It’s not light…it’s not pretty, but it’s a tank and will outlast me. The two tools that I’ve made sure to have on hand in my house for at least the last 3 decades are a drill/driver and a reciprocating saw. You can’t expect to do fine work with a sawzall….but I can go from lopping branches to cutting a cyclone fence post to trim and angle a 4×4 for a new mailbox. If my circ saw craps out in the middle of cutting 2×4’s….I can grab my sawzall and at least finish that work without having to stop. Just the versatility is what makes it invaluable for me. But you are a carpenter and I am a hack. Be well.
samuel from nairobi kenya; i couldnt agree more
To save time:
Circular saw and cordless 18v drill.
Mitre saw, track saw, jigsaw, router, drill driver, rotary hammer. That makes me able to do most things around the home atm. I still buy more though 😁
It has become an addiction… So i stopped complaining of my wife going shopping..
Get a Makita brushless 18 volt battery drill and you will be set.
I agree completely with your choices, though I would add a router as an important third tool. Routers are incredibly versatile, and it’s probably my favorite tool I use.
@NW ok, tell me one, I have 2 routers, onea big and one for palm, the one for palm I sometime use it, so tell me what router can make and a drill or something else can`t?
@sandrinilie There’s a ton of things you can do with a router that you can’t do with a drill…
no need, you can use drill
You nailed it!!
I picked the same two
A must have a sawza and impact gun yes and the circle saw is a big one. So three tools not two LOLHAHA the most used tools on a job
FlyGuy7,sawzaw,circular saw,air compressor and hose nail gun is a must
Great Video and Info, but goes against the theory that states: “He who dies with the most tools wins”
That’s just the first 2 in the race is all.
Down to the basics, love it! But, you left out finishing. A 3rd power tool is needed to complete this list, a random orbit sander, then cutting, fastening and finishing are covered.
Gets to it at 2:55
You’re spot on. I’m a semi pro DIYer. Seems to be some confusion in the comments, I believe you are suggesting these tools as your FIRST two tools to buy. I couldn’t agree more. Then in time you may want to add other power tools for speed, convenience and accuracy. Well done. First you tube site I have EVER subscribed to. Keep it up.
Agree on that just a circular saw and a drill are enough but for the diy weekender, aspiring woodworker and hobbyist they will also need a way to cut arcs, circles or manage small cuts were it’s impossible to use a circular saw. For that the jigsaw definitely is the tool to have and they have another advantage, they are inexpensive compared to circular saw. Everytime someone ask me about how to start to make things with wood and what power tools they should get I always tell them a drill, a circular saw and a jigsaw.
I totally agree and I think if you are going for item 3 that would be a Router.
The only problem is The blade is on the wrong side of the saw. Never could understand why sidewinders are built for left-handed people. When 85% of the people are right handed.
Don’t underestimate the good old corded drill, it has much more power than the cordless and goes much faster through 2x4s. As a bonus, a basic $50 Ryobi model has a hammer drill mode to go through concrete while being a workhorse with over 6 amps current. Usually you want 2 drills, one for drilling, the other for driving, to avoid having to switch out bits all the time, so a cordless model is a fantastic compliment.
Plus, a corded drill is always ready to go (assuming you are near an electrical outlet and have enough extension cords). On the rare occasions where I need a drill, it always seems like the batteries are dead in my cordless drills.
You sir are on point with 2 tools you need. Totally agreed.
saftey equipment should always be number 1
Sorry H.C. I just can’t use a sidewinder…cut my teeth with a worm drive…just easier to see what your doing…👀. 🤙
Great advice sir! I’m new to your videos and was skeptical of your motives. I’ve been in carpentry for 30 +/- years. The last 10 in fire/water restoration. Needless to say, when your video was recommended, I didn’t click on it to find information on finally making a tool purchase. I’m thousands of dollars past that point now. (On a totally different topic, I have a 50 amp 24″ dual bevel 200 psi pencil sharpener/fajitas maker for sale if you’re interested. It’s barely used! The seats are heated too!) I watched your video to see what you where selling folks.
Great video and dependable advice! If I were on the sinking titanic and could only save 2 tools, ol’ blue (makita circular saw) and my cordless drill would have to be my choices. But my son would be enrolled in scuba diving class, because he’d be going back for my multi-tool. And he better not come back without the blades either, they aren’t cheap!
I’ve hit like on your video and subscribed for future posts. Thank you for your honesty and have a great one!
I agree 100%. The drill and circular saw are a must. The circular saw is called the king of saws for a reason.
I have the worm drive mag 77 circular saw. Finally upgraded from the kraftsmin circular saw I had. No that’s not a typo, it was a cheap knock off saw I bought at Walmart for $30. It was good. But once I upgraded to a proper saw it was a world of difference.
I would definitely spend the money to get a high quality circular saw. You’ll have it for years If a diyer spent $200 on a worm drive skillsaw that would literally be the only circular saw they would need to buy in their lifetime and possibly their kids.
A drill is also a must. I used to like impact drivers but found drills so much quieter and prefer them now unless I really need the extra power. Get a couple if you can.
The $30 hyper tough drill is great for driving screws. It’s slow for drilling but solid overall. Also don’t be afraid to buy used tools. Sometimes you can get a great deal on them and enter into a higher end brand pretty cheaply. It may take a while to find a good deal though
I am a novice DIYer, and this may not mean much to a lot of people, BUT;
A circular saw is a great time saver, but I wouldn’t call it essential. Anything you can do with a circular saw, you can do with a hand saw. The biggest thing to consider is time, when deciding this purchase. One thing to note; know what tooth pattern to use for the job when selecting a hand saw. The variations in tooth pattern make a world of difference in cutting!
I would consider the drill essential, though, as hand drills are very difficult (competitively) to source bits for. And the range of bits is far less viable for many projects (drivers, augers, spades, etc.). The extra utility built into one tool makes it well worth the investment!
@MarsInBako if it’s only one cut I’ll just use a hand saw. Less set up, faster, quieter, and the dust drops down instead of getting thrown into the air for me to breath.The answer might be different if I ever get a cordless circular saw
No way I’m using a handsaw if I have a circular saw.
This video is about essential POWER tools.
I’ve been woodworking for 16 years now; I would most definitely consider a circular saw essential. Ripping down a few sheets of plywood to build even a couple of cabinets is not something I’d want to do with a handsaw.
If you are a DIYer then a table saw comes before a hand held saw. It’s safer and more accurate without jigs.
I’ve been a carpenter for 16 years. I’ve never thought about this because I’ve always had a pretty large array of tools. But yeah my Makita circular saw has been my baby since the beginning. I can’t imagine life without my drill AND impact driver though. Great Video thank you.
I would “immediately abandon” that sidewinder and get a worm drive. 😉🤣 I can’t imagine any right handed professional carpenter not wanting a worm drive having the blade on the left side is a huge advantage. ( but I guess I just met that person today😳)
Left handed skil saw! Being left handed they are awesome for ripping materials but I totally get your comment here with the worm drive especially ripping sheathing up on a roof!!!
Jared Waters I didn’t even realize right side saws existed because I had only ever worked with left side saws. Accidentally bought one, thought it was strange and returned it. But there is a reason for them. I just prefer the left sided ones.
You’re not wrong on this in terms of a diyer, anyway. Time is money as a professional. Especially the drill/ driver. I love my impact driver, but when you start driving 10″ timberlocks, the impact will ” bottom out” at a point. Drill drivers will keep on truckin’.
I had those same 2 tools in mind, good pick !
It was my thought too. Solid, honest choice.
Makita has never let their quality drop ,I have one of the first Chinese made Makita circular saws for around twenty years and it still runs perfectly, btw I am a framing and fix out carpenter.
I was lucky enough to learn from and work with one of the best carpenters for over twenty years ,we built many complex houses ,he only had minimal gear but great imagination and skills ,btw I bought a second hand Makita circ saw twenty years ago and it’s still going strong.
I have to say I agree with you here, my dad a working tradesman who built and installed Windows for a living owned a Black & Decker drill and a skilsaw, he had many hand tools as well of course and the skills to use them, but the only other power tool I can recall him owning in his career was a mitre saw, which was very good for frame making, he did later change to Bosch when B & D went down market, cordless drills were not really around when he was working in the trade, but he would certainly have had one if they were, speaking personally nearly all my early work was done with a skill saw and Makita 18V combi drill which are still my go to tools, I have acquired others, but only when I had an actual need, at least until I started working for a well known DIY chain, now I have a tool for just about every job, including an impact driver which I loved the first time I tried it, this was actually a live tool demonstration I was giving for my customers, and I sold a lot of them!, I also have great affection for my 1/2″ router but again this is not a requirement really, more desirable, unless you fit worktops as a big part of your average day,then they are all but essential, I also very much like my nail gun, but you can get by very well without one, they are great for speed on site though
Cordless circular saw???
I would choose the impact driver these days over the drill, it’s smaller and more compact if you get a high end one. There are plenty of drill bits that impact rated now. So, that’s my $
I think the drill is the better choice. More fits in the chuck. if stuck to 2 a jig saw would be more versatile. I understand why the circular is chosen but it is limited to straight cuts.
Every Carpenter I know has a M77 Worm Drive circular saw not that thing you had
Every carpenter I know doesn’t need someone to tell them what tools they need. This video was for non-carpenters surely.
Buying corded tools saves money, but you are right, you do NOT want a corded drill/driver. I started with a corded circular saw and a cordless drill & driver set that was on sale. The next thing I bought was a corded router, then a router table. But those are luxuries 🙂
If you want to see a real carpenter in action, check out Rex Krueger, now that guy knows carpentry.
Well I started off with three tools, 1. a hand saw, 2. Hand Drill, 3. A hammer, Built bed frames, cabinets, walls, etc. with just those 3 tools, and didn’t have to worry about Batteries, or electrical outlets. Later on I added a plane, and then chisels then I spent money on the big one, hand sanding block. I was in hawg city.
Like it but if you can get a flexible shaft for the drill.you can do even more.The other thing is you can with a little cobbling turn it into a mini lathe for small wooden parts
How long can you drag it out ? Why do these folks do this. You hate It. I hate it . Along with everybody else. GET To The point.
He’s right, I agree.
I am a newbie green DIYer beginning a garage weekend woodworking journey. This is exactly what I’ve been thinking about for weeks! I’ve hesitated in buying a table saw or router, etc… many a night. I do already have a harbor freight special miter saw so that hasn’t plagued me. However, I just kept thinking/feeling like I can do that with a circular saw for most long cuts and ripping. So, just a couple of days ago I ordered a combo set of Makita circular saw and drill drivers (18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Combo Kit) $299. Thank you for validating my own feelings towards a simple start on this journey. I was thinking that investing in those two items would give me a great start where I can add to as I go based on what I know I NEED from then on. Great stuff!!
Enjoyed the video. I would definitely agree for DIYERS
Also, if you save all the money you were gonna spend on a table saw and miter saw, you can buy a rail system for your circular and be better equipped than someone with the other two.
I just bought the Bosch GKT 55 because its rail wil also fit my router. I’d love to have a tablesaw , router and jointer but don’t have the space. This railsystem and a portable mitre saw let me DIY in the garden or the room i’m working on AND get results as good.. albeit with more effort
💯. I’ve been doing carpentry all my life and they, hands down are the most useful to tools.
Although the Makita of yesteryear are great. I’ll have to disagree and say that I really prefer the build quality and just absolute accuracy of the Bosch circular saw these days. I switch between the DeWalt and Bosch impact driver as well.
expect for the dewalt jobsite table saw and planer, i’m really not a dewalt fan but it’s 2 must have tools
You Just Solved the Greatest question honestly.
Personally if i lost all my tools and had to buy 2 power tools i would buy a jigsaw and a 1/2 hammer drill. Hammer drills generally also have a function like a regular drill. While not being as efficient as a circular saw you can accomplish almost everything a circular saw can do with a jigsaw. Its gonna be kind of annoying but i can make it work. Also a jigsaw is more versatile.
As a DYI’er I agree with your list, but a jigsaw would be a good third tool. Good video
I did well with a cordless jigsaw for many years before recently getting a circular saw. Regarding cut depth, you can always fit a long blade on the jigsaw to cut more material than the circular saw, but I think the biggest things the circular saw has on the jigsaw are:
1) speed
2) bigger shoe for added stability
3) you can make cuts that don’t go all the way through
Also, you can clamp the shoe of the circular saw and loosen the depth fastener to make a plunge cut much easier than the jig saw.
The jigsaws biggest advantages are:
1) sawing in a non-straight line
2) ending the cut without sawing through will give you a straight perpendicular ending
I often use the two in conjunction to make specially shaped holes.
Thanks for another great video! Have a great day!
Dose the table saw come in 3e positon to buy for you ???
Cause i don’t have one and for riping it is complicate time to time for small riping 1/2 inch X1 inch
But i have a planer and a ticknicnner but i don’t like it
Cause it eat to much wood and
I work in hard wood from pallet wood so limited in stuck
( Specilaly now cov 19 )
So do yo tink the table saw should be in 3e place before the miter ?
Cause i buy a miter before the table saw and now i realise the difference now lol 😅😢😫😖 😀😂
I red the coment and the multi tool
Is greet and i have it from makita
But i will sed a multi tool is more like a EXTRA or BONUS tool
Realy heandy for RENOVATION categorie but not realy for bilding new “book shelve ”
Cause i find it realy slow when cuting realy long strip of wood
But if less 36 inch
It is ok cause it make a clean cut in hard wood froring when renovation so i can fit the new hard flore wood 😀
CUTING a 4×8 playwood i find it to slow (except if you cut the square hode for the electricite box lol )
I mean in 2 (4×4 )
Great video. Collecting power tools is fine if you can afford it, but how much stuff do you need and will you use if you have i?
I totally agree with you, especially for the group of folks you’re targeting! Another video with honest info!, 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱
80/20 rule. The first 20% of the dollars you spend will get 80% of the job done. The next 80% only gets 20% of the job done. I cut a lot of holes so I wouldn’t be able to get by with just those two, I would need a jigsaw.
100% agree.
All my Power Tools are DeWalt 20v Max & 60v Flexvolt. I built a Garden Sink today with 4×4’s and my DeWalt 20v Max 7 1/4″ Circular Saw cut through the 4×4’s without a hiccup.
I use the same saw and blade 👍👍
This is why harbor freight exists xD
8 tools, 4 tools, 2 tools… next video will be about you ripping plywood with your nails… and no tools at all
Don’t tempt me Armand. I got nails for days 😏
My most important tool? Youtube. Love your videos. I wish you were my next door neighbor who felt sorry for the poor ole lady next door!!! Seriously though, what do you think of those small Rotorazor type cutters? I need something lightweight.
I definitely agree with your selection, but the same two tools require experience to achieve acceptable results. If you are a pro, you can do a lot with those two, but if this is the first time you are installing window trim and base molding, good luck. My suggestion for new DIYers is to get (buy, rent, borrow) the tools that will help them accomplish the tasks with the least friction. I am speaking from experience.
Right on about the two essentials. Sure, even the circular saw can be rigged up quickly as a safe and efficient table saw if one is required. The drill can be easily converted into a spindle sander or a drill press. Two tools that not only work as foundation tools but have the capacity to transform.
The only thing I hate worse than running out of battery power is buying new batteries when existing ones no longer take a charge. Corded tools for me.
being safe using a circular saw is quite simple really, you have to be aware of 2 things, where’s your fingers and where’s the blade , never cross path lol
That’s the long and short of it, Martin 😅
I agree with you, I have a 18 volt cordless drill and circular saw.
I do Most of my projects with them.
Use 12 volt Milwaukee system. Agree it will bog down. Then use a corded drill. You got that before you realized a cordless was better.
Great video and completely agree with you Sir thank you for sharing God bless…
I count a circ saw as number three. The saber saw is my number two. The right baldes and it will cut everything, the right jig it will cut straight. It’s slow and tedious though. But it is a lot easier to get comfortable with than a circ saw.
1. Circular saw and 2. Cordless drill
2:28 is when he finally talks about the tools. He talks way to long, make shorter videos and get to the point.
Love Makita but DeWalt saws are the best
Man, I’ve got a lot of yellow tools in my shop. But circ saw is one that just has to be blue for me 😄
I have 10 inch miter saw not the sliding one (dont have space and dont think this required) but I use more my circular saw. Looking forward , I want to get a job site table saw for ripping narrow boards which I struggled with all time…. Can you show how to cut 2*4 into trim / narrow strip of wood I can nail with nail gun….
Ripping with a table saw is definitely ideal with narrow stock. But, I will get around to showing more on how to do it with the circ saw!
I know the theme is minimalism, but with the low price of those diy-grade cordless packs, I’d recommend those. It’s hard to imagine wanting to do DIY in your house and never touching the jig, recip, and impact or preferring cords. Add a multitool soon. Even if you’re on-and-off-again, you’ll get your money’s worth many times, and if you outgrow anything or setup a shop or go (semi-)pro, you’ll know what you need.
This is a very good point, Jason. Those cordless packs almost weren’t around 3 years ago, and I’ve had a strung out collection for so long that it never would have made sense for me to get one. But, for a new DIYer, I’d have to say you’re probably right
Love your channel…glad I found it…
Thank you, M!
I remember reading about how to make a TAMAP Tool Chest. It was supposed to be a tool box for every tool required to build a house. Needless to say, there was no one, single power tool, corded or cordless in that tool box. LOL
A house *could* be built with nothing more than a hammer and a hand saw, in fact in the day they were.
Probably true, booba loo. As mentioned, I keep a crazy large collection, even if it’s about 30% of what it used to be 😅
i guess next would be sanders. belt sander for rough and ROS for fine
I’d say you’re right. Hand sanding on large scale of for the birds.
I guessed both tools when i read your title. Personally, and many West Coast carpenters would agree, a worm drive skilsaw, ole’ mag77, is the best. I can see the blade cutting with gobs of torque. But, it’s just preference. Thanks for your videos!
My grandpa who i learned carpentry from was left handed. The sidewinders give the best line of sight for lefties. I have both a worm drive & sidewinder; they automatically go to the hand with the best lie of sight, but the left is still more habitual.
Thanks ggod! One day I’m going to tackle the great east/west, sidewinder/worm drive debate. Hopefully on a trip out west!
Absolutely right! No question. And you can’t go wrong with Makita tools.
Older Japanese made Makita was great, but the latest Chinese made stuff is garbage
A cool video from a guy I trust . How many people have a portable table saw made with a hand saw / upside down and clamped with heavy duty wing nuts .
3 foot X 5 foot – 3/4″ treated plywood and rests on saw horses ? Guides for cutting 45 degrees are easy + speed squares & multi squares . Works great for trim and fine cutting .
It would be a nifty video . All the best to everyone and stay safe , Happy and Healthy .
Thanks Quantum! I’ve seen the old inverted circular saw/table saw trick–and I’ve improvised a few things on remote job sites before! 😅 Maybe I can get around to tackling it on the channel soon. Thanks for the idea, cheers!
Great video and great advice, this is exactly what I was looking for, information for beginners with a limited budget. Best regards.
You’re welcome, Savo! Thanks for watching 🙂
I have done a lot work around my home and family members homes and in the end I always used the circular saw and cordless drill with a clutch. I have installed doors, trim work and even built a wheelchair ramp with just these two power tools. I agree the circular saw can be dangerous if you do not pay attention to the cut. For dimensional lumber I use a speed square to keep the cut line straight. Thanks for sharing this.
…..and a router.
2:57 for the naming of the tools
I recently bought my first cordless circular saw and I have used it way more than I thought I would..I also got a track saw that has a sled you can mount your saw on and I would use it to rip large sheets 100 times before I would use a table saw. Honestly when I started watching the video I was sure you were going to say circular saw and a cordless drill..great video!
You hit it spot on. 35 yrs ago, before I went professional, a saw and a drill were my first power purchases. Cordless was in its infancy but the 3/8″ VS Makita corded drill saw me thru everything including site built kitchens. One can never have enough jigs. These days, like you, I have tools coming out of my ears with every accessory made for each of them ( just like women and shoes etc.). However, if I had to be stuck on an island with only two, it would be those.
Thanks for the great content!
all I know is that if I bought the tools and accessories I wanted, even having a good bit of the basics already, it would set me back $20 K plus. and take all of my garage floor space. I did buy a miter saw, and with that, the cordless 1/2″ drill and a 35 to 40 year old craftsman circular saw I already had, I was able to make the work bench I wanted and a few other items – but looking back I did not need the miter saw to do what I wanted. no more tool buys for me, so I agree, “all the toys” are not needed for me to get some work done. thanks for the video information!
This guy is a joke.
Very true, Elvis. What I love most about this combo is that they take up almost no space, bits and extra blades can usually ride in the boxes, and you can carry them from shop to truck to jobsite in one trip each time. So much versatility, I never would have been able to operate without them!
I might be tempted to replace the drill with an impact driver. You can drill holes up to about 1-1/2″ with them and they can be used with a much larger variety of fasteners. I would agree with you on the Makita circular saw. They are nice but I use the Dewalt. It just feels better in my hand. One note on circular saw safety, whichever brand you buy, spend the extra dollars for a model with a brake. They can be appendage savers. Love the video as always.
@DR PHIL I see and respect your point. Both tools definitely have their pros and cons. I actually have a set of 12v Makita drills that I use for delicate work. I don’t want to lose sight of the videos point. As pro’s, we have to own much more than a circular saw and one drill.
@The Honest Carpenter not sure about snapping the bits. Two things I really like about the Dewalt. It has built it detents at 22.5 and 45, bevels to 57 degrees and has the quick release lever instead of the screw knob. I guess that was 3! One other thing is the Dewalt 60v is a copy of the corded saw. I actually don’t use the corded saw anymore unless my crew just needs two 7-1/4″ saws out for some reason. For the record, we do have 3 Makita saws, 2-7¼” and a 16-5/16. All are good saws.
Good call on the brake, Bryan! I’ve used that dewalt on numerous jobsites–I’ll say, it is definitely lighter. All in all, it may be more DIYer friendly, now that I think of it. I love the impact driver, but the the drilling bits always seem to snap on me. Something I’m doing wrong there??
Without doubt you hit the nail on the head! That’s a perfect starting place every person needs to know about. Anything more right now would only confuse most beginners.
I’ve seen some of your videos and I’m impressed with your knowledge and skills. Myself, I’ve only been a carpenter/cabinetmaker for the past 50 years and still learning.
Keep up the good content and thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Pete! I love hearing from long-time carpenters/woodworkers like yourself! My grandfather was a master cabinetmaker–also made custom doors and windows in the 50s and 60s. I’ve never gone that far down the cabinet road, but I always admire that work. It’s a cross between carpentry and woodworking, and takes perfect precision carried on a large-scale. Thank you for watching and writing in!
As a DIY’er, I almost never buy tools unless I have a project to do where the new tool will save me significant time and labor. I might buy one that is on sale for 40% or more off if I’m sure that I’ll use it in the future. Never buy anything that you cannot pay cash for that month. Of course, that goes for almost everything you buy except a house. Debt and tools that only collect dust are not your friends.
it’s like using cheat codes when you just started a new videogame, it ruins the experience.
Good call, Gene. Before I moved to the beach for a while, my old shop was like a tool graveyard. I’d grab everything I could get my hands on! I cleaned house for that move, and I keep it waaaay pared down now
I’ve had a Craftsman circular saw for 20 years … guess my next will be a Makita
@Jon’sWoodCraftUK two words : quality control. Japanese and Germans are aware of that. And those days, you can sometimes see powertools that are ‘made in japan’ but it’s just the flagships of a brand who are just imported from china and finished in japan or germany. (like the flagship metabo drill bs18ltxbl)
@Quantum Mechanic just wanted to say we really miss Craftsman in the UK since they stopped exporting here, I really love my old Craftsman router, nothing quite like it here now, and you can’t get all their brilliant jigs and accessories anymore, it’s a shame, they really were built by craftsmen for craftsmen, same can be said of ShopSmith sad you can’t still buy them either, a Swiss Army knife of a shop tool if ever there were one!, even good second hand ones are hard to find for reasonable money nowadays, always liked the Proudly made in the USA badge, like Made in Britain used to be a common site in my youth, we never should have outsourced so much manufacturing, it’s a dangerous game, and the quality always suffers when you do this…
I have an “old” Craftsman circular saw and drill which are 30 years old and still doing great . “Made in America” will be coming back .
Craftsman really used to make some decent stuff, Survive. I had a corded drill that pre-dated ME by some years. Makita saws are just so powerful and accurate. About my only qualm was that, with heavy jobsite pounding, the sole plates could get knocked out of whack. I had to manually reset my old one occasionally. Otherwise, theyve been golden!
While I agree with you _in theory,_ telling a guy he needs only two power tools is like telling a woman she only needs two purses or two pairs of shoes!!
Fun fact: The circular saw was invented by Tabitha Babbitt, a Shaker woman.
@Keith Frost its also not correct, while she is given credit for the circular saw, Edmond Michel invented it.
That “fun fact” is not uncontested.
I thought you only made comments on political issues . Thanks for your comment .
The perfect analogy !!! LOL !!!
I agree 100% and as far as the Makita saw, hands down the best saw ive used
First thing my dad ever told me on a jobsite, Craig 😁