Tools & Machining Articles

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Tools & Machining Articles

Tools & Machining Articles

Pockets Full of Power: The Ideal Tool Belts for All Trades

With so many different tool belts out there, how do you choose the best one for the job? This helpful guide walks you through the different things to look for in a tool belt, and helps you decide which type is right for your job.

Tools & Machining Articles

Your Guide to Choosing the Best Tape Measure

An accurate, easily read tape measure that’s the right length can make the difference between a project being done right and done “almost right.” Our buying guide will help you pick your next favorite tape measure for any project.

Tools & Machining Articles

Select the Right Tool Storage for the Job

Determining the right type of tool storage depends on your application. Let’s explore all of your options in this helpful buying guide.

Tools & Machining Articles

Compound Miter Saws: A Guide to Different Types and Uses

Looking for the right compound miter saw to get the job done? Learn about the different types of miter saws as well as their benefits and common uses in this detailed guide.

Tools & Machining Articles

Types of Locking Clamps and How to Use Them

There are several different types of locking clamps and they come in a variety of sizes, but the overall purpose they serve is the same. Similar to locking pliers, locking clamps provide a secure grip to make sure whatever you’re working on stays in place.

Tools & Machining Articles

Guide to Drill Presses

Like the common handheld drill, drill presses are used to bore holes of various diameters into metal, wood, or other materials. But that’s where the comparisons end.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Store and Organize Tools in Your Garage

You’ve had your next project on your mind for a while now and you finally have time to get to it. But then you enter your garage and realize you can’t find this, that, or the other thing.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Use and Maintain Circular Saws

Circular saws are distinguished by round-shaped blades that have the ability to cut through many different material types, including metal, wood, cement block, brick, fiberglass, and slate.

Tools & Machining Articles

What are the Dimensions and Angles of Morse Tapers and Jacobs Tapers?

A machine taper, frequently referred to as a “drill sleeve,” is a means for securing toolholders or cutting tools in the spindle of a power tool or machine tool. A conical-shaped male member with a taper fits into the female socket, which has a matching taper at an equal angle.

Tools & Machining Articles

Guide to Bolt Cutters

Pound for pound, bolt cutters are among the most powerful tools in any tool chest. By combining long handles with hinges that transfer power to the jaws and cutting blade, they can generate incredible amounts of cutting force.

Tools & Machining Articles

Angle Grinders Guide

Angle grinder—handheld tools used to cut, sharpen, shape, and polish everything from stone and brick to steel and iron—are useful in many situations and found in many work environments.

Tools & Machining Articles

What Are Step Drill Bits?

There is a wide array of specialty drill bits available for use on different types of jobs. But when you need to drill into sheet metal, you’re going to need to use what are known as step drill bits.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Use and Read Digital Calipers

A caliper is a tool used to measure the distance between two ends of an object. Traditionally, measurements were acquired by reading a ruled scale or dial, but more modern calipers provide a digital display for increased accuracy.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Use Locking Pliers

The first patent for locking pliers was filed by Danish immigrant William Petersen in 1921. Petersen, a failed farmer, was having a go at being a blacksmith when he realized that his job would be easier if he had a tool that held the pieces he was working with in place.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Use Wire Cutters

There are a few tools you’ll need to begin working with wires. Most of these tools are considered pliers, which are tools that help you bend, strip and cut wire. They can be important to have on hand, especially when you’re trying to complete a job safely.

Tools & Machining Articles

How to Sharpen Wire Cutters or Find a Pair that Works

Need to know when it’s time to sharpen your wire cutters? If you’re asking yourself this, there’s a good chance that yours are already becoming less and less effective. While there’s no specific way to know how to tell if your wire cutters need sharpening, here are some reasons why your wire cutters