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by: GregHansward
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Most people think of power tools when they think about woodworking tools. However you do not only need power tools in order to successfully complete many different projects, you should also consider buying some hand woodworking tools. It can be confusing to know exactly which tools someone should buy when they are first starting, but there are simple ways to build your collection without spending a fortune.

Hand Tools you Might Require for Woodworking Projects

- Clamps ? You will need to buy these in a number of different sizes for different types of wood. These are fairly cheap and you should be able to find them for quite a reasonable price. It?s fine to buy these used if you want. - Chisels ? You?ll need quite a few chisels in a number of different sizes - Wire Brush ? The stiffer the better - Saw ? You will need several types of saws, a tenon saw, back saw and dovetail saw. These get well used and need to be kept sharp. - Planes ? These are needed to smooth the surfaces of wood. You at least need a simple one when you are starting. - Scrapers ? Use a hand scraper and paint scraper - Files ? You should buy a collection of different files in different sizes.

Other Tools You should Look at

- Hammer ? Invest in a high quality hammer - Mallet ? This is vital for hitting your chisel - Wrenches ? In a number of different sizes - Screwdrivers - Tape measure - T bevel - Level - Steel Ruler - Set Squares - Awls - Putty Knife - Protractor - Utility Knife - Pliers ? Choose ones with needle nose tips and channel lock.

Tracking down great priced tools

It can be very expensive to set up your own woodworking shop. It may be tempting just to rush out and buy the cheapest hand tools that you can lay your hands on in order to save money. However you really do get what you pay for. It is a false economy to buy these cheap tools as they are unlikely to last anywhere near as long as high quality tools. If possible stick to a reliable brand name such as Armstrong, Stanley or snap on tools. It is very important to consider buying quality tools for long term use.

It?s a sensible idea to think about buying used tools. You just have to make sure that they are in good condition. Very old German hand tools are made to a very high quality and are pretty easy to track down. The quality of these older tools are often much better than the cheaper newer tools. It is important that you make sure that you carefully inspect the condition of these used tools.

You can find hand tools at local yard sales, take a look in your local newspaper to see if anyone is selling anything you might be interested in. Also take note of any garage sales which are being held.

Another really good way to find tools for yourself is to go to flea markets. These will offer many different tools in the same place which will mean you don?t have to travel to different yard sales to buy everything you need. It is normally possible to negotiate on price at flea markets, so you?ve got to be willing to negotiate!

The best way to get cheap tools at flea markets is to go towards the end of the day. Many people will be more willing to reduce the prices to get rid of them at the end of the day. You might get a discount if you buy all of your tools from the same person.

About the Author

Greg Hansward publishes normally for http://www.insidewoodworking.com , a web publication with topics around hand tools in woodworking . You can see his publications on handtools over at http://www.insidewoodworking.com .

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