Links to the best Cool Tools from our first 18 episodes:The best Cool Tools from our first 18 episodes: ►1-2-3 block 2pc set (with holes): amzn.to/2qeq7VL ►1-2-3 block 2pc set (without holes): amzn.to/3qigkgf ►Aluminum Straight Edge (18-inch): amzn.to/2F13DQc ►Aluminum Straight Edge (24-inch): amzn.to/2EBfVkF ►Aluminum Straight Edge (38-inch): amzn.to/3q61Gsi ►Dura-Grit Carbide Sanding Products (Use Coupon Code: STUMPYNUBS): duragrit.com/home.php ►Yost 4-1/2” Vise: amzn.to/2AAWCHv ►Magnetic Vise Jaws: amzn.to/2DqK6fg ►15lb anvil: amzn.to/2KpwfnF ►Stanley Sweetheart Chisels: amzn.to/2CvROjf ►Stanley Bailey Chisels: amzn.to/2CXb8qo ►MasterGage Mini-Magnetic Base: amzn.to/2VyS2PH ►Hedgehog Feather Board- amzn.to/2qluXFX ►iGaging Combination Squares: www.chipsfly.com/category/RS.html ►Ridge Carbide Triple Play Narrow Dado Set (Use coupon code SNWJ10): ridgecarbidetool.com/dado-sets/triple-play-dado-set.html (Note: These are affiliate links. There may be a small financial gain for us if you use them to make a purchase.)
I am new to woodworking. Thank you for producing such an informative interesting and accurate video's. I have been watching hundreds of woodworking video's over the last few months (I have kind of been obsessing.) and the safety rule violations I see are cringeworthy. I believe anyone using a table saw without a riveting knife or blade guard shouldn't be making videos. The thing is, my wife has put her foot down about me buying a table saw. I am talking escalation like threatening divorce level. The question I have is the following. If I make her a promise to NEVER EVER remove the riveting knife or blade guard, just how badly am I limiting myself? That is, I have heard some kinds of cuts require removing the blade guard. Is there a way to make that absolutely never required? I have plenty of money, so getting a saw stop and special push blocks, fancy special blade guards etc. isn't an issue. The real problem is being able to satisfy my lady that I won't go out in the garage and come back with one or both arms amputated to the elbow. I am an engineer by trade so a hand injury could very well end my ability to work.
@@edreusser4741 - A SawStop table saw literally can not cut your fingers off. That eliminates 95% of the danger of a table saw. The only other danger that remains is a freak accident like a strong kickback that strikes you and breaks a bone. But a riving knife all but eliminates that danger as well. In my opinion, a SawStop table saw is one of the safest tools in the shop. If she need convincing, take her to a woodworking show (when they happen again) and let her watch a demo. Seeing it in person usually is a game changer :) (I am not sponsored or paid by SawStop)
@@edreusser4741 The SawStop is the table saw for you. Woodworking without 100% of all after guards in place is something that I have seen in many many shops. Please do not simply disregard someones video for (what may seem to be) lack of safety. Guards are often removed for video only so that it's easier for the viewer to see the process. Other times, the operator may have sufficient experience with an operation and feel them unnecessary. This often comes with time and a great deal of respect for the capability of the tool In use. But beyond simply watching a video for safety flaws, many of these woodworkers have an incredible wealth of knowledge they are willing to pass along to others. They have taken the time to demonstrate and educate and do so at their own cost, both fiscally and physically. Watch with an open mind and take only the positive you need from their offerings to improve your own work and techniques. Enjoy your new tools and the projects you create with them.
James, I found your channel about a year ago and it has become my favorite, Go-To channel for useful information. I am a 64 year old physician who learned woodworking as a kid from my father, who learned it from his grandfather, who was a cabinet maker in the late 1800's to early 1900's. I took a long hiatus from woodworking to become an eye surgeon, but I am now re-creating a dream shop in my garage in preparation for quasi-retirement. I shared that bit of history to legitimize my next comments. My father had a bit of a tremor, I have a sister with Parkinson's Disease and two of my 5 children have benign essential tremor. I have been blessed with rock solid hands, but that is simply by God's grace. I have noticed your tremor and went back to review your prior open book video about it. Kudos for sharing that video and the video of your recent injury. This type of honesty carries with it a strong bond to your viewers and puts you in rarefied air in comparison to most "instructors". I would like to comment on the suggestion from one of your viewers who indicated propranolol can be helpful in your situation. I would agree whole-heartedly. It is fairly benign, but should only be used with the clearance from a good physician who would check for any other systemic contraindications. While you are obviously a skilled woodworker, there are some tasks which would be a bit easier without the tremor. Not an unreasonable consideration for you. It would also keep know-it-alls from making stupid comments as if they did not have any liabilities of their own. We all do.
Well said, thank you sir. I too have tremors in my hands. The only time they seem to fade is when this old Army Sniper/woodworker is holding a rifle or paring chisel. I was wondering if this is common with tremors, for them to almost fade when muscle memory kicks in for certain tasks?
I don't think I've clicked on a single affiliate link in my years of hearing people reference them, sometimes I feel out of spite because it's usually annoying and fake how it's presented. You, however, are one of the few people making content that I feel are genuine, knowledgeable, real, etc. So no matter what I buy on Amazon I'll come through your links ;). Cheers man love the videos (If that isn't obvious) -Steve
These are by far some of my favorite videos on CZcams. Thanks to you I ordered the Igaging Bench squares. I can't wait to get them. I am like a little kid on Christmas eve. I did use your link, so you get the credit, and I will continue to do so for some of the other cool tools. Thanks!
I've been using 1-2-3 blocks for woodworking tool setup---particularly squaring my jointer fence---and some holding tasks for years. I'm glad I'm not the only one that recognizes how useful they are.
I work in metalworking and metrology. I want to caution you about the way you are using the 123 blocks. 123 blocks are going to be flat, parallel, and perpendicular within small tolerances. But they are not guaranteed in size to be 1.0000 x 2.0000 x 3.0000. The size could be larger or small by up to .005 typically. For exact sizes, look up Gauge Blocks (also called Jo Blocks). Although you wouldn't use them for the applications you're using. Also look up paired 123 blocks, which is a set of 2 or 3 blocks that will be the same size within a small tolerances. You can use them to set up larger surfaces across multiple blocks and know you're getting good parallelism.
As a collector of tools impressed when the old Stanley Square was tested. Never thought it would be inaccurate. First thing in the morning I'm doing the test!
That square is nice but Starrett is hard to beat. As a young machinist I bought cheap tools at first then I replaced them with Mitutoyo stuff, then as a journeyman tool and die maker I went and spent the money on Starrett. Very nice tools indeed. Now as a garage maker i can spot nice tools that aren't necessarily all that expensive. Thank you for your review.
If you Wood workers like 1-2-3 blocks , you might like to try Adjustable Parallels . They are Really handy for gauging slots and offsets . Also , 2-4-6 blocks are available . An Old , Retired Machinist , have fun and enjoy !!!
Thank you. I am new to wood work /creations I am learning from your videos and really appreciate you sharing your talent. I have started to buy tools. There is one tool that I am a bit confused. Routers- cord -battery adjustability handles 1/4” 1/2” adaptability to router table etc etc. again thank you.
Would have to agree on the 1-2-3 blocks. I use them for everything in wood model building- clamping squares, weights, alignment blocks, equipment calibration. Wish I had 20 of them.
Lots of youtube demonstrations show a user looking over a setup block set to see if the blade/bit is set right. I have found that I can use a bar on top of the stack to get the height just right by feel. I just swing the bar over the blade/bit and adjust until it just touches. Works with 1 2 3 blocks as well. Adjusting by sight doesn't work as well for me. Thanks for the good video.
Just got my Igaging double squares and found them a bit rougher as you said. One thing I noticed was a bit of looseness in the ruler when I tightened the knob. A hint, if you do not hold the ruler when tightening the nut it will tighten without the slop. Like them and they have shown themselves to be square when doing the knife test. Thanks for the recommendation they will be on my bench as regular members of the crew.
I bought some 1 2 3 blocks and they are the handiest things. I do a lot of small boxes and these things are great for getting everything square. I used them on a small boat model the other day to align the ribs. Great stuff.
It's two days after Christmas and at least two of the links show "Currently Unavailable". As another commenter noted, your video got a lot of attention and several companies sold out based on your recommendations. Way to go! Now I have to check back when supplies are once again on the shelf.
I have both sets of chisels, the sweethearts for display and the Baileys for daily use. No carpenter I know carries a wooden mallet... Great Christmas present for your apprentice. My 2019 favorites: the Empire 4" red speed square, the horizontal stud finder, the True Precision brand door pull drill jig with a case, Milwaukee 12V mini metal band saw, Red Tree brand small black canvas trim nail apron, and I finally bought a 10 oz.. Stiletto trim hammer.
For those that stumble on this video later on I have a set of 6" igaging calipers "EzCal" and they are great! You have to stay on top of them when it comes to battery usage as when it goes low battery it doesn't work beyond ~3" but I've had them for over a year and they are just as nice or better than much more expensive calipers. I saw on their original page that they said they didn't auto off which I actually wanted, but as it turns out they do turn off after 5-10mins. Very repeatable high quality tool. set screw works nice, slides easy, battery door stays closed, and easy to read screen. The case feels like it is a little worn but it is just a push tab on a blow molded box. the foam is good inside it though. If the digital ever crapped out the measurements are only lasered on so they may wear out. The thumbwheel has some play but works well enough. The precision and accuracy is well worth its ~$25 price though.
Good info. 1st one I seen of yours. Starrett, Fowler, Mitutoyo are some of the very well known names in any machine shop industry. Very high Precision quality tools and very long lasting if taken care of properly. Have you looked into double faced hammers/mallets? Wood hammers seem pretty common but double faced hammers have replaceable tips on the head. Some may be too light for certain wood working but others should have plenty head weight for heavier hits. They are very commonly used in a machine shop. Hard plastic tips can harm your wood handles.
When it comes to precision combination squares, I like PEC. They are very close to Starret in quality, but less money (more than iGaging though). Best bang for the buck in my opinion. Like Starret, they have lots of choices in blades for their squares--metric and Imperial, and in various lengths. I have several sets of PEC and they are my go-to for squares.
I am with you there. I bought a couple of PEC blemished tools, and they were dead on accurate. Both squares had a couple of minor scratches, but for the price I can deal with it.
DURAGRIT ROCKS! Been using them for a year and can't say enough..they are like Everlasting Gobstoppers for woodworking! Get the woodworker's combo and you will be set for years.
Your videos have been some of my favorites for the last 7 or 8 years. I have purchased some of your drawings and they are well done. I often hear people use the term "plan" when drawing is the correct word. A plan is a drawing showing a view from above. A set of drawings certainly includes plan views but also elevation views and auxiliary views.
I've fallen in love with the iGaging Snap Check Digital Depth gauge. It's less than $20 (less than $15 when I got mine) and after almost a year, it's been perfect for me (especially when using a router/router table). But my favorite new tool.... a handmade, wooden Pantorouter cabinet. WOW!!! I have 1 arm/leg so doing jointery has been a nightmare. Now, I can do mortis joints, bow joints, miter, dovetails , and joints I've yet to even name that I've created in experimentation. It is the greatest, and funnest tool I've ever used. Plus if I am doing signs or anything that has a template, I can make it faster, and far more perfect than I ever imagined. All in all, we are truly in the Golden age of tool creations. Some are junk. Some are God-Level. Some are less than $10, and some cost as much as a SawStop, or a 10pack of overpriced clamps lol. Ughhhh.... why are clamps soooo overpriced?
Interesting comment about "woodworking season" ... for someone with a small garage shop like mine where I have to move my tools outside to use them, woodworking season generally stops some time in September when it starts to get too wet to use electrical things outdoors. This time of year is 3d-print and laser-cutting season.
Chris, I don't have 3D printer, and I am wondering if you could make usable vice jaws with one? Is the plastic suitable? I guess I am forever trying to find an excuse to buy a 3D printer.
Thanks for the tip on Duragrit. About 10 days after ordering a dura grit block. I called their help desk. Their online support guy said the blocks were on back order due ~ 2/20. I was fortunate the next day I got a shipping notice. What I found amusing was he said there was an U tube guy that mentioned duragrit blocks on his utube channel and they were instantly sold out. Guess you carry a big stick. I promised I would let you know you might give these shops a heads up so they know they’re going to get over run with orders. Good problem to have for one of these shops. Thanks I got my stuff and they’re great.
I have been using 1-2-3 blocks for many years. They are a great tool. I have several iGauging measuring instruments and they all perform well. If I recall correctly, I picked up the protractor, center finder, combination 12" set off you affiliate link. I have the 4" double square as well. I also picked up the iGauging caliper depth attachment, and again If I recall correctly, it was after you featured it.
Those magnetic bases look very useful. Those combination squares look great as well. I'm a metal worker so I'm familiar with the 1-2-3 blocks and appreciate you mentioning them. Btw, testing two straight edges against each other is fine and I'm sure it's good enough for most purposes but if you really want to know for certain they're straight then you need to have 3 and test them all against each other. Just 2 might share a common curve.
I bought the 1-2-3 blocks and sanding blocks after watching this video. I already own the aluminum straight edges and can attest to their high quality.
So, must have recorded this before the accident since I see a good finger and a wedding ring on there. I have in the past purchased several of these and you have never steared me wrong. Good job! You are an invaluable resource for weekend woodworkers.
It looks like a good number of people have taken your advice on some of these tools to heart. When I followed the Amazon link for the mini-magnetic base, the site listed the 1-2-3 blocks and the featherboard under "Frequently bought together" portion of the page... I hope you're getting some sort of kickback on those orders..
Hi, again, Mr. Nubbs, Based on your recommendation I bought 2 Dura Grip Sanding Blocks, and now I’m ordering 2 more. I was amazed at how often I reached for them-exactly as you described. My shop is starting to look like a Stumpy Nubbs commercial. So far, everything you’ve recommended has equaled or exceeded your analyses. THANKS...and keep on making those COOL TOOL videos!
Hi I am Kees from Holland. I have used several squares and they where all acurate or it was possible to make them acurate. Just like the starret. However the stanley and several other brands did not servive the drop test. The little pin that holds te blade will brake easely. I don’t know how the people from starret make the stronger, possibly they forg them. So the starret combination square is one of my all time favotites. Sorry for my english. Regards and succes with your program
Thanks for the critical tool reviews. A square combination square for 1/3 the price of a Starrett is good news. Better news: I paid $11 for my Empire 12" at Home Depot. It passed the knife test. No box, though.
Hope your hand is healing well. Just got a 1-2-3 block set to try out. Will probably get the featherboard, too. Thanks! I appreciate your recommendations.
53 years old and NOW I finally know what those machined blocks are that I inherited from my father's toolbox. I'm going to dig them out and put them to use!
Have you ever tried the woodpecker combo square, a bit pricey but near perfect. They are designed for wood workers with ingenious innovations that really make life easier.
A sweet! Right off the bat you tell me what these blocks my friend found are. He found two in the street and I walked by them for months always thinking, man, I could use those for something. Just brought them in the other day and was amazed that they "just happened to be" perfect helpers for a project I was in the middle of. These are 1½x2x3 but for my purposes that's even better
Iv been thinking long and hard my top tools as a carpenter doing 1st and 2nd in equal measure are good comfortable pouch fatmax tape good quality pencils nice diston saws good tressels battery skills saw and plane laser ood drill driver and chalk or string line everything else is really an add on of these basics these can make most other tools like jigs square etc
I got the pair of 123 blocks and love them! They came coated in oil, and i wondered how you recommend cleaning and preserving these? Degreaser, WD40, Varnish????
I do way more metal than wood working, a buddy of mine asked if I could make rings for his Sweethearts. Super easy to do. I made him titanium, brass, bronze, cast iron, stainless and Damascus (pattern welded if you are being pedantic).
Here in Ottawa, my woodworking stops in November. Winters here can be -40 (F and C), far too cold for my unheated garage woodshop. The glue does not set properly at that temperature. Test of the winter is for planning and Fusion for next spring.
Thanks for some good suggestions. Also, I'm not a Redwings fan at all but I gotta give you a tilt of the hat for incorporating the greatest sport on Earth into your video.
Glad to see your safety incident is not holding you back. Quick question on local hardwood lumber suppliers in your local area... many options or preferred partners?
Search “draw filing” on CZcams if you want to fix an almost square L square. All you need is a medium to good sized mill bastard, it is quick, easy, accurate and leaves a smooth finish. A technique for precision leveling/smoothing by hand with a file. You can save a lot of money if you can draw file and also by taking a piece of plywood scrap to the hardware store to test out their cheap squares to find one that is square.
Thank you for your very helpful presentations and SAFETY advice. You mentioned an accessory that attached to a table saw fence and pulled the wood into the fence. I have tried to find this again in you videos but can't. Do have a link please?
Gotta add to the Stanley Sweet heart chisels. I have the 4 chisel set and a Lie Nielsen 1". The LN chisel is a great chisel, so I use it instead of the Stanley 1". But the Stanleys are comparable in to the LNs. How ever if I had known I would have skipped the LN. (I use Japanese chisels for pounding jobs because they are far less comfortable than the Stanleys. As for prep, there was none. Backs of the Stanleys were as flat as the LN. Thinner blades make them perfect for paring.
A bridgeport milling machine is also a wonderful woodworking machine . Although they can at times transfer spots of oil to your piece. It is surprising no one discusses them .
Love this video! My two cents, buy quality Japanese chisels. I know I know, they are expensive. But you get what you pay for and in my experience they live up to the hype. The saying; buy nice or buy twice, applies here
Good ones are very nice, if a bit “chippy” for beginners. I love the smooth transition from the socket tang to handle on Japanese chisels, and the ferrule. A hammer really helps with chopping mortises.
also - im very glad you gave the iGauging squares a bit of screen time! i stumbled upon their stuff a while back and bottom line is they are just fine and are very fairly priced
Links to the best Cool Tools from our first 18 episodes:The best Cool Tools from our first 18 episodes:
►1-2-3 block 2pc set (with holes): amzn.to/2qeq7VL
►1-2-3 block 2pc set (without holes): amzn.to/3qigkgf
►Aluminum Straight Edge (18-inch): amzn.to/2F13DQc
►Aluminum Straight Edge (24-inch): amzn.to/2EBfVkF
►Aluminum Straight Edge (38-inch): amzn.to/3q61Gsi
►Dura-Grit Carbide Sanding Products (Use Coupon Code: STUMPYNUBS): duragrit.com/home.php
►Yost 4-1/2” Vise: amzn.to/2AAWCHv
►Magnetic Vise Jaws: amzn.to/2DqK6fg
►15lb anvil: amzn.to/2KpwfnF
►Stanley Sweetheart Chisels: amzn.to/2CvROjf
►Stanley Bailey Chisels: amzn.to/2CXb8qo
►MasterGage Mini-Magnetic Base: amzn.to/2VyS2PH
►Hedgehog Feather Board- amzn.to/2qluXFX
►iGaging Combination Squares: www.chipsfly.com/category/RS.html
►Ridge Carbide Triple Play Narrow Dado Set (Use coupon code SNWJ10): ridgecarbidetool.com/dado-sets/triple-play-dado-set.html
(Note: These are affiliate links. There may be a small financial gain for us if you use them to make a purchase.)
I am new to woodworking. Thank you for producing such an informative interesting and accurate video's. I have been watching hundreds of woodworking video's over the last few months (I have kind of been obsessing.) and the safety rule violations I see are cringeworthy. I believe anyone using a table saw without a riveting knife or blade guard shouldn't be making videos.
The thing is, my wife has put her foot down about me buying a table saw. I am talking escalation like threatening divorce level. The question I have is the following. If I make her a promise to NEVER EVER remove the riveting knife or blade guard, just how badly am I limiting myself? That is, I have heard some kinds of cuts require removing the blade guard. Is there a way to make that absolutely never required? I have plenty of money, so getting a saw stop and special push blocks, fancy special blade guards etc. isn't an issue. The real problem is being able to satisfy my lady that I won't go out in the garage and come back with one or both arms amputated to the elbow. I am an engineer by trade so a hand injury could very well end my ability to work.
@@edreusser4741 - A SawStop table saw literally can not cut your fingers off. That eliminates 95% of the danger of a table saw. The only other danger that remains is a freak accident like a strong kickback that strikes you and breaks a bone. But a riving knife all but eliminates that danger as well. In my opinion, a SawStop table saw is one of the safest tools in the shop. If she need convincing, take her to a woodworking show (when they happen again) and let her watch a demo. Seeing it in person usually is a game changer :) (I am not sponsored or paid by SawStop)
@@edreusser4741 The SawStop is the table saw for you. Woodworking without 100% of all after guards in place is something that I have seen in many many shops. Please do not simply disregard someones video for (what may seem to be) lack of safety. Guards are often removed for video only so that it's easier for the viewer to see the process. Other times, the operator may have sufficient experience with an operation and feel them unnecessary. This often comes with time and a great deal of respect for the capability of the tool In use. But beyond simply watching a video for safety flaws, many of these woodworkers have an incredible wealth of knowledge they are willing to pass along to others. They have taken the time to demonstrate and educate and do so at their own cost, both fiscally and physically. Watch with an open mind and take only the positive you need from their offerings to improve your own work and techniques. Enjoy your new tools and the projects you create with them.
James,
I found your channel about a year ago and it has become my favorite, Go-To channel for useful information. I am a 64 year old physician who learned woodworking as a kid from my father, who learned it from his grandfather, who was a cabinet maker in the late 1800's to early 1900's. I took a long hiatus from woodworking to become an eye surgeon, but I am now re-creating a dream shop in my garage in preparation for quasi-retirement. I shared that bit of history to legitimize my next comments. My father had a bit of a tremor, I have a sister with Parkinson's Disease and two of my 5 children have benign essential tremor. I have been blessed with rock solid hands, but that is simply by God's grace. I have noticed your tremor and went back to review your prior open book video about it. Kudos for sharing that video and the video of your recent injury. This type of honesty carries with it a strong bond to your viewers and puts you in rarefied air in comparison to most "instructors". I would like to comment on the suggestion from one of your viewers who indicated propranolol can be helpful in your situation. I would agree whole-heartedly. It is fairly benign, but should only be used with the clearance from a good physician who would check for any other systemic contraindications. While you are obviously a skilled woodworker, there are some tasks which would be a bit easier without the tremor. Not an unreasonable consideration for you. It would also keep know-it-alls from making stupid comments as if they did not have any liabilities of their own. We all do.
Well said, thank you sir. I too have tremors in my hands. The only time they seem to fade is when this old Army Sniper/woodworker is holding a rifle or paring chisel.
I was wondering if this is common with tremors, for them to almost fade when muscle memory kicks in for certain tasks?
I've had 1-2-3 blocks for years, they're a great shop addition. A great thing to go with them is a cheap small granite surface plate.
Pair these with a jeweled machinist indicator like a starrett last word and you can check your cuts for squareness, too.
I've added a pair of 2-3-4 blocks as well and it increases the capabilities.
Hope the hand is healing good. It takes time. Love the Sweetheart Chisel Set.
All are very cool tools. I can assure any skeptics that IGaging is the real deal! Very nice and worth every penny!
Thanks for rerunning these episodes. Very helpful second time around. Purchased most of these items.
I don't think I've clicked on a single affiliate link in my years of hearing people reference them, sometimes I feel out of spite because it's usually annoying and fake how it's presented. You, however, are one of the few people making content that I feel are genuine, knowledgeable, real, etc. So no matter what I buy on Amazon I'll come through your links ;). Cheers man love the videos (If that isn't obvious)
-Steve
These are by far some of my favorite videos on CZcams. Thanks to you I ordered the Igaging Bench squares. I can't wait to get them. I am like a little kid on Christmas eve. I did use your link, so you get the credit, and I will continue to do so for some of the other cool tools. Thanks!
I've been using 1-2-3 blocks for woodworking tool setup---particularly squaring my jointer fence---and some holding tasks for years. I'm glad I'm not the only one that recognizes how useful they are.
I work in metalworking and metrology. I want to caution you about the way you are using the 123 blocks. 123 blocks are going to be flat, parallel, and perpendicular within small tolerances. But they are not guaranteed in size to be 1.0000 x 2.0000 x 3.0000. The size could be larger or small by up to .005 typically. For exact sizes, look up Gauge Blocks (also called Jo Blocks). Although you wouldn't use them for the applications you're using. Also look up paired 123 blocks, which is a set of 2 or 3 blocks that will be the same size within a small tolerances. You can use them to set up larger surfaces across multiple blocks and know you're getting good parallelism.
As a collector of tools impressed when the old Stanley Square was tested. Never thought it would be inaccurate. First thing in the morning I'm doing the test!
Carpenter for 40 yrs. Still learning tips and tricks in wood working. thanks
That square is nice but Starrett is hard to beat. As a young machinist I bought cheap tools at first then I replaced them with Mitutoyo stuff, then as a journeyman tool and die maker I went and spent the money on Starrett. Very nice tools indeed. Now as a garage maker i can spot nice tools that aren't necessarily all that expensive. Thank you for your review.
If you Wood workers like 1-2-3 blocks , you might like to try Adjustable Parallels . They are Really handy for gauging slots and offsets . Also , 2-4-6 blocks are available . An Old , Retired Machinist , have fun and enjoy !!!
I have a set of 1-2-3 blocks, and some of the holes are threaded for joining them together. Great tool.
You're so professional, thorough, and you enunciate very well, thanks for all the effort you put into these videos!
Thank you. I am new to wood work /creations
I am learning from your videos and really appreciate you sharing your talent. I have started to buy tools.
There is one tool that I am a bit confused. Routers- cord -battery adjustability handles 1/4” 1/2” adaptability to router table etc etc.
again thank you.
Would have to agree on the 1-2-3 blocks. I use them for everything in wood model building- clamping squares, weights, alignment blocks, equipment calibration. Wish I had 20 of them.
Lots of youtube demonstrations show a user looking over a setup block set to see if the blade/bit is set right. I have found that I can use a bar on top of the stack to get the height just right by feel. I just swing the bar over the blade/bit and adjust until it just touches. Works with 1 2 3 blocks as well. Adjusting by sight doesn't work as well for me. Thanks for the good video.
Great. Now my shopping list is getting huge.
Just got my Igaging double squares and found them a bit rougher as you said. One thing I noticed was a bit of looseness in the ruler when I tightened the knob. A hint, if you do not hold the ruler when tightening the nut it will tighten without the slop. Like them and they have shown themselves to be square when doing the knife test. Thanks for the recommendation they will be on my bench as regular members of the crew.
Really cool info; gonna have to get me a set of 1-2-3's!
Yost pipe clamps are awesome too 👌🏼
I bought some 1 2 3 blocks and they are the handiest things. I do a lot of small boxes and these things are great for getting everything square. I used them on a small boat model the other day to align the ribs. Great stuff.
I use the 3 2 1 blocks for miter corner glue ups - my set has one massive hole where one clamp goes to each 45 degree hold - perfectly square.
It's two days after Christmas and at least two of the links show "Currently Unavailable". As another commenter noted, your video got a lot of attention and several companies sold out based on your recommendations. Way to go! Now I have to check back when supplies are once again on the shelf.
Well this channel is the coolest! Thanks!
I have both sets of chisels, the sweethearts for display and the Baileys for daily use. No carpenter I know carries a wooden mallet... Great Christmas present for your apprentice. My 2019 favorites: the Empire 4" red speed square, the horizontal stud finder, the True Precision brand door pull drill jig with a case, Milwaukee 12V mini metal band saw, Red Tree brand small black canvas trim nail apron, and I finally bought a 10 oz.. Stiletto trim hammer.
Valuable information on these products.
For those that stumble on this video later on I have a set of 6" igaging calipers "EzCal" and they are great! You have to stay on top of them when it comes to battery usage as when it goes low battery it doesn't work beyond ~3" but I've had them for over a year and they are just as nice or better than much more expensive calipers. I saw on their original page that they said they didn't auto off which I actually wanted, but as it turns out they do turn off after 5-10mins. Very repeatable high quality tool. set screw works nice, slides easy, battery door stays closed, and easy to read screen. The case feels like it is a little worn but it is just a push tab on a blow molded box. the foam is good inside it though. If the digital ever crapped out the measurements are only lasered on so they may wear out. The thumbwheel has some play but works well enough. The precision and accuracy is well worth its ~$25 price though.
Good info. 1st one I seen of yours. Starrett, Fowler, Mitutoyo are some of the very well known names in any machine shop industry. Very high Precision quality tools and very long lasting if taken care of properly.
Have you looked into double faced hammers/mallets? Wood hammers seem pretty common but double faced hammers have replaceable tips on the head. Some may be too light for certain wood working but others should have plenty head weight for heavier hits. They are very commonly used in a machine shop. Hard plastic tips can harm your wood handles.
Great advice and resources, thank you!😀👏👍
Love the 25-50-75 blocks ;D
1-2-3 still applies to metric as a ratio. 25 is 1, 50 is 2 (twice the 25), 75 is 3 (three times the 25)
Man I wish I had the time to fully appreciate these videos.
When it comes to precision combination squares, I like PEC. They are very close to Starret in quality, but less money (more than iGaging though). Best bang for the buck in my opinion. Like Starret, they have lots of choices in blades for their squares--metric and Imperial, and in various lengths. I have several sets of PEC and they are my go-to for squares.
I am with you there. I bought a couple of PEC blemished tools, and they were dead on accurate. Both squares had a couple of minor scratches, but for the price I can deal with it.
DURAGRIT ROCKS! Been using them for a year and can't say enough..they are like Everlasting Gobstoppers for woodworking! Get the woodworker's combo and you will be set for years.
Coupon code was for 10% off , even though they were already on sale when I ordered.
Your videos have been some of my favorites for the last 7 or 8 years. I have purchased some of your drawings and they are well done. I often hear people use the term "plan" when drawing is the correct word. A plan is a drawing showing a view from above. A set of drawings certainly includes plan views but also elevation views and auxiliary views.
I've fallen in love with the iGaging Snap Check Digital Depth gauge. It's less than $20 (less than $15 when I got mine) and after almost a year, it's been perfect for me (especially when using a router/router table).
But my favorite new tool.... a handmade, wooden Pantorouter cabinet. WOW!!! I have 1 arm/leg so doing jointery has been a nightmare. Now, I can do mortis joints, bow joints, miter, dovetails , and joints I've yet to even name that I've created in experimentation. It is the greatest, and funnest tool I've ever used. Plus if I am doing signs or anything that has a template, I can make it faster, and far more perfect than I ever imagined.
All in all, we are truly in the Golden age of tool creations. Some are junk. Some are God-Level. Some are less than $10, and some cost as much as a SawStop, or a 10pack of overpriced clamps lol.
Ughhhh.... why are clamps soooo overpriced?
Interesting comment about "woodworking season" ... for someone with a small garage shop like mine where I have to move my tools outside to use them, woodworking season generally stops some time in September when it starts to get too wet to use electrical things outdoors. This time of year is 3d-print and laser-cutting season.
Chris, I don't have 3D printer, and I am wondering if you could make usable vice jaws with one? Is the plastic suitable? I guess I am forever trying to find an excuse to buy a 3D printer.
Thanks for the tip on Duragrit. About 10 days after ordering a dura grit block. I called their help desk. Their online support guy said the blocks were on back order due ~ 2/20. I was fortunate the next day I got a shipping notice. What I found amusing was he said there was an U tube guy that mentioned duragrit blocks on his utube channel and they were instantly sold out. Guess you carry a big stick. I promised I would let you know you might give these shops a heads up so they know they’re going to get over run with orders. Good problem to have for one of these shops. Thanks I got my stuff and they’re great.
All the Standley tools I buy just work. My goto tools, they never break, they are always there in my box.
Clamping - I use my several Jawhorse Clamps more than just about any others.
I have been using 1-2-3 blocks for many years. They are a great tool. I have several iGauging measuring instruments and they all perform well. If I recall correctly, I picked up the protractor, center finder, combination 12" set off you affiliate link. I have the 4" double square as well. I also picked up the iGauging caliper depth attachment, and again If I recall correctly, it was after you featured it.
I've never had a set of these blocks...maybe about time I do
Thanks for sharing, I hadn't seen some of these before. I hope that you are healing well.
Those magnetic bases look very useful. Those combination squares look great as well. I'm a metal worker so I'm familiar with the 1-2-3 blocks and appreciate you mentioning them.
Btw, testing two straight edges against each other is fine and I'm sure it's good enough for most purposes but if you really want to know for certain they're straight then you need to have 3 and test them all against each other. Just 2 might share a common curve.
Those 123 blocks. So simple but so genius.
Hope you're healing up well.
But not available in metric, 25x50x75mm. At least, not anywhere I've looked.
Great job man! Always enjoy your videos. Watching this with a mug O' coffee and leftover Christmas cookies. Nothing better. Thanks.
Thank you it was a very informative video even for a very novice woodworker
I bought the wp 1 time tool set up blocks.
At first being the hack I am I kept forgetting I even have them.
Now I find all kinds of ways to use them.
I bought the 1-2-3 blocks and sanding blocks after watching this video.
I already own the aluminum straight edges and can attest to their high quality.
So, must have recorded this before the accident since I see a good finger and a wedding ring on there. I have in the past purchased several of these and you have never steared me wrong. Good job! You are an invaluable resource for weekend woodworkers.
These are clips from past episodes.
It looks like a good number of people have taken your advice on some of these tools to heart. When I followed the Amazon link for the mini-magnetic base, the site listed the 1-2-3 blocks and the featherboard under "Frequently bought together" portion of the page... I hope you're getting some sort of kickback on those orders..
Hi, again, Mr. Nubbs,
Based on your recommendation I bought 2 Dura Grip Sanding Blocks, and now I’m ordering 2 more. I was amazed at how often I reached for them-exactly as you described.
My shop is starting to look like a Stumpy Nubbs commercial. So far, everything you’ve recommended has equaled or exceeded your analyses.
THANKS...and keep on making those COOL TOOL videos!
Good job in your presentation; great woodworking tool ideas! Thank you.
Awesome bunch of tools! I am always looking to improve what I do and some of these will definitely wind up in my shop.
thx especially for the 1-2-3 block segment! A very useful video as a whole.
I love wood working season! And I love my boy stumpy nubbbbbs!
Hi I am Kees from Holland. I have used several squares and they where all acurate or it was possible to make them acurate. Just like the starret. However the stanley and several other brands did not servive the drop test. The little pin that holds te blade will brake easely. I don’t know how the people from starret make the stronger, possibly they forg them.
So the starret combination square is one of my all time favotites. Sorry for my english.
Regards and succes with your program
Thanks for the critical tool reviews. A square combination square for 1/3 the price of a Starrett is good news. Better news: I paid $11 for my Empire 12" at Home Depot. It passed the knife test. No box, though.
as an amateur machinist, i can say that i have never seen a solid 1-2-3 block before, but i will let you in on a secret, they also make 2-4-6 blocks.
Hope your hand is healing well. Just got a 1-2-3 block set to try out. Will probably get the featherboard, too. Thanks! I appreciate your recommendations.
53 years old and NOW I finally know what those machined blocks are that I inherited from my father's toolbox. I'm going to dig them out and put them to use!
I ordered my Dura Grit sanding block today. Thanks for the discount. We'll see how it goes. Enjoy your videos.
Have you ever tried the woodpecker combo square, a bit pricey but near perfect. They are designed for wood workers with ingenious innovations that really make life easier.
A sweet! Right off the bat you tell me what these blocks my friend found are. He found two in the street and I walked by them for months always thinking, man, I could use those for something. Just brought them in the other day and was amazed that they "just happened to be" perfect helpers for a project I was in the middle of. These are 1½x2x3 but for my purposes that's even better
Iv been thinking long and hard my top tools as a carpenter doing 1st and 2nd in equal measure are good comfortable pouch fatmax tape good quality pencils nice diston saws good tressels battery skills saw and plane laser ood drill driver and chalk or string line everything else is really an add on of these basics these can make most other tools like jigs square etc
You know as soon as i hit play I hit like cause I always like them
I got the pair of 123 blocks and love them! They came coated in oil, and i wondered how you recommend cleaning and preserving these? Degreaser, WD40, Varnish????
Hope you are getting better!
Thanks!
Wishing The Best!
Lots of food for thought. Thanks!
Great job ,…..thank you so much for helping me learn.
Well done.
I love the Stanley Bailey chisels
I like the Hedge Hog Feather Board.
Thanks, James! How is your hand healing? I hope well, and you are able to enjoy your new space.
Nebraska, where the east peters out. Edge of the earth, Tornado alley, cows vote..... and where I live. 😁
I do way more metal than wood working, a buddy of mine asked if I could make rings for his Sweethearts. Super easy to do. I made him titanium, brass, bronze, cast iron, stainless and Damascus (pattern welded if you are being pedantic).
Pedantic? US???
Here in Ottawa, my woodworking stops in November. Winters here can be -40 (F and C), far too cold for my unheated garage woodshop. The glue does not set properly at that temperature. Test of the winter is for planning and Fusion for next spring.
Rest, not test
Me too. In the winter I move indoors to the scroll saw.
Thanks for some good suggestions. Also, I'm not a Redwings fan at all but I gotta give you a tilt of the hat for incorporating the greatest sport on Earth into your video.
i miss working in a pro custom carpentry shop... the tools and the procedures to keep them pristine mmm,,,,
Nice hair. Nice hats!
Thanks for the information
Glad to see your safety incident is not holding you back. Quick question on local hardwood lumber suppliers in your local area... many options or preferred partners?
Search “draw filing” on CZcams if you want to fix an almost square L square. All you need is a medium to good sized mill bastard, it is quick, easy, accurate and leaves a smooth finish. A technique for precision leveling/smoothing by hand with a file. You can save a lot of money if you can draw file and also by taking a piece of plywood scrap to the hardware store to test out their cheap squares to find one that is square.
It was good to see the list of tools again in one spot
Thank you for sharing 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for the great video James! I hope that you are healing up well. You are still in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you. I hope you are well.
Thank you for your very helpful presentations and SAFETY advice. You mentioned an accessory that attached to a table saw fence and pulled the wood into the fence. I have tried to find this again in you videos but can't. Do have a link please?
Great idea on the 1 2 3 blocks for setting up a table saw fence. Never thought of that. Just found your channel and subscribed.
Nice job Stumpy!
Every woodworker needs a vise.... :)
Along with the 123 blocks, you should check out the adjustable parallels by Starrett. I use them fairly often.
Gotta add to the Stanley Sweet heart chisels. I have the 4 chisel set and a Lie Nielsen 1". The LN chisel is a great chisel, so I use it instead of the Stanley 1". But the Stanleys are comparable in to the LNs. How ever if I had known I would have skipped the LN. (I use Japanese chisels for pounding jobs because they are far less comfortable than the Stanleys. As for prep, there was none. Backs of the Stanleys were as flat as the LN. Thinner blades make them perfect for paring.
Way cool,thank you.
A bridgeport milling machine is also a wonderful woodworking machine . Although they can at times transfer spots of oil to your piece. It is surprising no one discusses them .
I’ve just started watching these episode of cool tools. Most excellent!
Love this video!
My two cents, buy quality Japanese chisels. I know I know, they are expensive. But you get what you pay for and in my experience they live up to the hype. The saying; buy nice or buy twice, applies here
Good ones are very nice, if a bit “chippy” for beginners. I love the smooth transition from the socket tang to handle on Japanese chisels, and the ferrule. A hammer really helps with chopping mortises.
Fun video. I simply do not get why people give a thumbs down. I guess there is just that percentage of people...
also - im very glad you gave the iGauging squares a bit of screen time! i stumbled upon their stuff a while back and bottom line is they are just fine and are very fairly priced
I’m preparing my drool as we speak!
Love the blocks excellent price but no metric sizes