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Name a woodworking tool or machine that makes you happy to use.

13K views 119 replies 77 participants last post by  wormil 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have some gift cards and I have all the basic machines, saws, drill press, etc. I don't "need" anything and I can't use the cards on wood, so what do I want … something better or something that makes you happy because it works so well or because it makes woodworking easier. Can include books, machines, power tools, hand tools, jigs, fixtures, set up tools, or layout tools. I could give examples but I don't want to color the replies, there is no right answer. Don't try to tailor your answer to me, I'm interested in what you like or makes you happy.
 
#5 ·
My band saw, a Powermatic with mobile base, riser block and tension release, was one of the greatest additions to my shop. It gets used about as much as my miter and even more than my table saw.

My lathe is just damn fun and my get away, when I need to think by not thinking about a subject.

My drum sander gets used even more than my spindle sander, but ooooh that spindle sander. Those curves are so much more tolerable to sand now,

What is it about my Unisaw? I think the smooth whirrr of the blade is satisfying, if a bit scary. Until this, I'd come to take it for granted. However, what makes that saw kick butt is what would make any saw great - a REALLY good fence.

In the end, all the above leave me in love with my dust collector(s), but that would be a quandary, since without the others, there is no reason for them.
 
#6 ·
The one tool(s) I really love simply because they have been a game changer are my Dominos. Over the years I have moved to better quality machines with more capability but the Domino is the one that provided a quantum jump in speed while maintaining or improving quality and accuracy.
 
#12 ·
Here's a few smaller things that are kinda my "best buddies" in the shop:
Wood Bumper Rectangle Hardwood Automotive lighting

Well-tuned block plane (or 2)
Office supplies Cosmetics Wood Writing instrument accessory Font

2mm lead holder with shopmade "sharpener"
Rectangle Wood Material property Font Hardwood

A good 6" double square (PEC blem shown)
Table Gas Wood Rectangle Machine

A machinist angle plate is a super handy thing to have around and I love mygranite surface plate.
 

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#14 ·
A trim router. I was in the same boat as you. I had $100.00 gift card and wanted to get another power tool that I really didn't need. Finally I remembered a trim router was something I always wanted but never bothered to get. Worked out great and the price was right.
 
#17 ·
Any big router with variable speed is going to work well in a router table. Triton made one that would allow raising the collet above the table for easier bit changes. I have a PC 7539 that's my only plunge router so it's used hand held. I have the big Milwaukee (can't remember the model #) that sees dedicated table duty and I haven't yet found any bit that will slow it down.
 
#25 ·
My CAD software and the laser on my radial arm saw.
The laser on the saw allows me to leave a pencil line, split it, or make it go away. It's that accurate!
I also love my new Cordoba C9 guitar. Not a woodworking tool, but it is made of wood. :)
 
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