I'm a careful purchaser, and when looking to make any acquisition, whether an iPhone or banana, the decision is calculated and rational. As my wife reminded me, I married her more quickly than I make purchases.
We talk a lot about tools, and how much of a difference they make. For someone on the outside who has never handled the tools and experienced the benefits for themselves, it might sound far-fetched, or at the least raise and eyebrow. But I can tell you, from personal experience, that the tools we sell are on a different level from what you'll find at the big box stores. If you're skeptical but curious, come in for a demo, or, better yet, go ahead and complete checkout for any Festool tool knowing you're protected by the 30-Day Money Back Guarantee - if you don't think it's worth it, we'll give you your money back.
Over the years, I've experienced a number of eye-openers with new equipment added to the shop that has literally changed how I work. Here are a few:
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Dust ExtractorI find it literally crazy to think about all the sawing and sanding I did with power tools with a dust bag at best, and nothing at worst. I have pictures of myself just covered in dust from head to toe and memories of my hair being stiff from all the sawdust in it. Yes, I wore a dust mask, but still... the CT 26 was one of the smartest purchases I have made and it opened my eyes to dust-free woodworking. |
Wera Tools Zyklop Speed RatchetsThese ratchets have a pivoting head, so can be used to drive fasteners in-line like a screwdriver or at a right angle when you need torque. What I didn't understand was how this multi-function tool would simplify my workflow. Instead of grabbing two or three tools, I just grab one. Just like how I gravitate to an adjustable wrench instead of finding the correct box end wrench - it's just faster and easier, requiring one less decision. |
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Silky Saws Japanese Hand SawsMy father used Western style handsaws, so that's naturally what I gravitated to when I started purchasing my own tools. But what an eye-opener it was to try a Japanese hand saw. These lightweight saws are as thin as they are sharp, and cut with unbelievable speed and precision compared to my Western saws. |
Festool Track SawFor ripping big, heavy hardwood slabs, the difference between my 7-1/4 inch circular saw and Festool's big track saw was unreal. Tons of power, smoother cuts, and practically dust-free. I've also found it useful for cutting other materials including composites, solid surface, and aluminum. (If you're looking to get your first track saw, Festool's 100Y Bundles offer great value). |
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Pica Marking ToolsSometimes, the small things make the big difference. Pica's pencils are well-designed, and built to last. Instead of having wooden pencils scattered around the shop to increase my likelihood of finding one quickly, I just carry a Pica clipped to my pocket. From their fine mechanical pencil to the bold Visor markers, they are always ready for use. |
Festool Bluetooth Remote Control and Module for CT Dust ExtractorsHow much time have I wasted walking back and forth between my dust extractor to cycle it on and off to clean up around the shop? I installed the remote control last month (finally!) and it is incredibly satisfying to use. Maybe only because I lived without it for 15 years? Note: Festool is experience supply issues with this as it is undergoing a change related to the battery. |
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Speaking of tools that will change how you work (or possibly prevent you from doing any work at all), have you seen my Incineration Plane - the hand tool that removes the waste as it's created? It's definitely in a category of its own, and unlike any tool you've ever seen before. It is one tool that does not live up to the hype. But if you're a tool collector and need to have it, make me an offer?
Until next time,
Chris Wong
