I decided that I had better visit one of the larger stores to see what is available on the shelves nowadays,
What a fascinating and eye-opening experience. I had no idea how far the power tools market had advanced.
My visit was made even more pleasant by the assistance that I received from my new friend, Reon.
What a pleasure to walk into a store, begin browsing and to be approached politely by a sales assistant! I explained who I was and why I was there, and ended up with a half-hour lecture on power tools. I came away with a much greater knowledge than I had before.
How often do we walk into a store, spot something shiny on the shelf and decide that we need one? Not only do we not need it, but we also probably don’t even know its proper use.
To the serious handymen or women, who know what they are doing: accept my apologies for going back to the basics, but this column is aimed at the “want to be” do-it-yourselfers.
Power tools can probably be divided into three categories, hobbyist, home maintenance and contracting.
Hobbyist tools are specialist and lightweight. Since contractors know what they are doing, let’s concentrate on home maintenance.
Most of the large manufacturers have a domestic and industrial range of tools and unless you intend using the tools daily, you should get all you need out of the domestic range, designed around a working life of at least 30 hours.
Working backwards, that probably means you can use your drill for around 4 000 holes. I don’t think many of us are going to hang that many pictures on the wall.
The lifespan of any tool will be extended if you pamper it. Clean it after use, store in a safe, dry place, use it only for its intended purpose and don’t overload it – ie, don’t try to drill a 12mm hole with a drill designed for 6mm holes.
What do you need to buy? Probably a lot less than you think. Try to resist the urge to rush out and stock your shiny new tool cupboard or racking system with every tool on the market.
By now you are probably sick and tired of the Handy Mac rule “it’s all about preparation” but as usual, it is relevant. Walk around your property, with your partner or “job-list provider”, decide what needs to be done, compile a list and then consult the relevant person at your hardware store about the tools you need.