Podcast - Adam Savage Project
Cool Tools with Kevin Kelly – 12/2/2014
Kevin Kelly of Cool Tools joins Adam, Will, and Norm to discuss the starter tools that everyone should have. (The tools and Kevin’s book make great gifts!)
Comments (98)
Kevin Kelly of Cool Tools joins Adam, Will, and Norm to discuss the starter tools that everyone should have. (The tools and Kevin’s book make great gifts!)
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Will dropping the ball right from the get-go.
This is such a great episode.
Can someone compile the list? I’ll give it a shot after work if no one has already done it by then.
Not 10 minutes in and I’m already loving this episode to death. Great work, guys!
I started to watch this, but then decided that I didn’t want to see this as I am rushing out the door. I will come back to this later today when I can really enjoy it.. 😊
Somewhat misnomer advice, but I have a little hack that I’ve found helpful. If you get the standard 18V DeWalt Drill, you can actually change the chuck out. I can’t stand the plastic keyless chuck, so I modified the one in our shop to use a nice Jacobs metal chuck that will never fail. Conversely, if you really wanted to you can actually convert a cordless drill to a keyed chuck if that’s your sort of thing.
Also, if you’re not using a set of Quick Strips for stripping wires, you should stop what you’re doing and buy a pair right now.
a list is a great idea, if you do decide to put one together I will help contribute to it if you want.
Adam. Check out woodpeckers for high precision woodworking tools. They have an anodized, machined aluminium speedsqare http://www.woodpeck.com/carpentersq6.html
Self-healing drafting table covering is from Vyco. I built my own drafting desk in high school (25 years ago…) using this stuff.
This is an amazing episode! Thanks, guys!
Got myself a reverse-action staple gun in grad school. Still use it.
Some ideas:
Pentel mechanical Pencils.: http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Mechanical-Pencil-Barrel-P207C/dp/B002XJX968/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1417538013&sr=8-4&keywords=pentel+mechanical+pencil
Engineers green sketch pads: http://www.amazon.com/Engineering-Computation-Letter-Sheets-35500/dp/B001J87JTM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417538082&sr=8-1&keywords=engineers+pad
Computation notebooks:http://www.amazon.com/Engineering-Computation-Letter-Sheets-35500/dp/B001J87JTM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417538082&sr=8-1&keywords=engineers+pad
An O-ring kit:http://www.amazon.com/Buna-N-O-Ring-Durometer-Pieces-Sizes/dp/B005LRSAT0/ref=sr_1_2?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1417538401&sr=1-2&keywords=orings
Kant Twist clamps:http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_6?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=kant%20twist%20clamps&sprefix=kANT+T%2Cindustrial%2C161
Screw machine(stubby) drill bits:http://www.amazon.com/Drill-America-A60S-CO-SET-Machine-Degrees/dp/B00B0XJ32M/ref=sr_1_28?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1417538570&sr=1-28&keywords=screw+machine+drills
extended drill bits(aircraft):http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_14?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=aircraft%20drill%20bit%20set&sprefix=aircraft+drill%2Cindustrial%2C195
Socket head cap screw Asst.:http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_15?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=socket+head+cap+screw+assortment&sprefix=socket+head+cap%2Cindustrial%2C139&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Asocket+head+cap+screw+assortment
Machinist’s square:http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_10?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=machinist+square&sprefix=machinist+%2Cindustrial%2C137&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Amachinist+square
Sheet metal jig saw blades.
I have a good tip to submit from personal work experience regarding vice grips (particularly the needle nose variety): if you’re worried about marring or damaging the surface you’re clamping, vinyl hose is perfect for covering the clamps of the tool. You increase the surface area of the tool, and also add another degree of compression, while protecting the surface you’re clamping (I use them as quick and easy hose clamps, for example).
I’m in the subsea robotics industry and can verify that 3 alternating layers of silicone tape and “liquid electrical tape” can make a wire splice that is waterproof to full ocean depth!
A box cutter/x-acto knife is a MUST. Also a good set of files can be incredibly important.
My quickly put together list during listening…
-Staple gun – reverse trigger
-Digital calipers
-Nipex – nippers, wire cutters, strippers
-Auto adjustable pliers – Nipex brand (sound like Craftsman gator grips)
-Metallic Sharpie – silver marker
-Penetrating oil – like liquid wrench, this is amazing for working on old cars
-Cutting mats – self healing mats for use with xacto knives, magnetic versions
-Ball-end hex/allen wrenches – allen wrenches you can use at an angle
-25 ft tape measure
-Ratcheting Screwdrivers – Will recommends standard cheap Ace hardware 4 bit driver
—Tangent about picking a brand of power tools and sticking with it so you don’t end up with tons of chargers and batteries
-Cloth tape measure
-Stanley organizer trays
-Silicoln tape
-Cordless Dremel
-Auto centering punch
-Uni-bits – stepped drill bits
-Small pry bar
-Zip ties of all sizes
-Magnetic stud finder
-Offset screwdriver
-Tweezers
-Vice grips – standard and plate style, also recommend the needle nose style
-LED flashlights, headlamps
-Aluminum speed square
-Security bit set – for special screws in electronics – iFixIt sells a good one
-Microset of screwdrivers – like jewelers set of drivers
-Of course…
-Hammers
-Scissors – one for fabric, one for everything else
Another great tool is an extendable wand thing with a magnet on the end (no idea what its called). Mine has an led recessed into the magnet end so you can also see what you are picking up, but its also strong enough if you know the general area you dropped a small screw but cannot see it. You can slowly wave it just off the ground the screw will jump up to it.
If you have a 12 year old kid who likes to be outside a lot and build stuff in the woods get him/her one of these chinese military shovels: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b60OZhrTB6o
You can get them here (US): http://tinyurl.com/k3u4tc4 but for safetys sake, do some projects with your kid and the tool so they can learn to use it safely.
Oh Adam I feel your pain, those cute girls were a menace when I was younger. Crashed a motorbike
showing offbecause of cute girls.Today I’m wiser and have just ordered a copy of COOL TOOLS.
Excellent episode. Thank you.
I think Adam mentioned zip-lock bags as well as / in place of the zip-ties? Definitely agree that zip-ties are ridiculously useful though. Surprised nobody mentioned duct-tape (or if they did, I missed it).
If your on a budget don’t be afraid to buy things from Harbor Freight. Esp. things your don’t use a lot like pipe wrenches.
Pick and choose carefully, some of the stuff there is quite good.
This is an amazing podcast right here. One of my favorites.
SUGGESTION: At the beginning you talked briefly about some difference conferences and events… Would you PLEASE do a podcast RUNDOWN of all of the difference conferences and events one could attend? I feel like that would be really great for beginners like me to get more involved in the world of technology, nerdery, and making things.
Thanks!
Which brand/model is the tiny flashlight?
Actually, ifixit no longer sells the security bit set, but there are other brands available at Amazon or other places you may prefer.
What is the word at 9:39, a ‘howth kallow’ that came out in ’68 / ’69? Can’t make out the word and it seems interesting, so I would really like to know what he is talking about.
Thanks for this.
With regards to scissors, if you do any leather work, have a dedicated pair of shears for leather too. Don’t cut fabric or paper with them either.
I also bought a cheap pair of Harbor Freight “heavy duty” shears that are great for cutting open the stupid plastic blister packs.
Mr. Kelly was talking about “The Whole Earth Catalog” a resource for back to the land types:
http://www.wholeearth.com/index.php
Well, there’s a new book to add to my wish list. Great video! Keep these coming!
Whole Earth catalog http://www.wholeearth.com/index.php
One of the most useful tools I own is just a simple pocket knife, one specifically with a half serrated blade. I personally use a Gerber Remix Serrated, and would recommend it to anyone.
http://www.gerbergear.com/Essentials/Knives/Remix-Knife_22-41969
The blade is a little wide but the finger hole allows you to use significant force without the worry of your hand slipping and cutting yourself.
SQUEE! The Han Savage blockhead puppet is sitting on the table, NEXT TO ADAM and ADJACENT TO KEVIN KELLY! I’ve piqued.
Survey Taken!!
He is using a Foursevens Mini MLR2 flashlight.. 😉
Thanks!
Many other essential tools not mentioned in this episode, have already been covered in recent podcasts with Adam. Things like Forstner Bits, Channel Locks, Pipe wrenches, Crescent wrenches, various pliers (like needle nose), Bit Driver sets, Socket sets, pocket knife, multi-tool, etc..
great show, my copy of cool tools made it to the Netherlands days after it was available on amazon. I dont know if you are able to get Proxxon tools in the states or if you are able to use 240V machines…but a better alternative for dremel is definetly a proxxon multi rotary tool, they also made them in 12V, so that may solve the voltage problem. These germany tools are very precise, run smoother, quiter and with more torque compared with the dremels and that with half the speed. Using this for more than 30 years, actually one of my first powertools ever. Could not live without ….http://www.proxxon.com/en/micromot/28462.php?list
In addition to buying the book, I think I’m going to create an Amazon list from this episode…..
There’s having the tools and then there’s having the confidence to use them to achieve what you want. Practice a bit first before you build yourself a structure you have to live in. Practice can be [is] fun.
The ifixit magnetic mat is a dry erase mat, not a cutting mat. I think that is a really neat idea for organizing small parts, but what I thought he said in the episode was a magnetic cutting mat.
I didn’t really find a magnetic cutting mat, but I did find a mat with a metal interior that lets you use magnets on it. Kinda opposite for the situation that I thought it would be awesome for but kinda neat regardless. There is always tape.
http://www.amazon.com/Basic-Grey-Magnetic-Precision-Mat/dp/B0019LOZUU
Center Punch – what if the punch is a spring? http://www.amazon.com/Spring-Tools-32R00-1-Snapper-Center/dp/B000PSFUO8/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1417561499&sr=1-1&keywords=spring+tools+32R00-1
One side is a center punch the other is a prick punch.
Also if anyone is unfamiliar with Knipex also check out their Pliers Wrench … pliers. Non marring smooth jaws with a cam that increases grip. Great for plumbing, nuts, bolts, studs, I use them for AN fittings and they’re perfect.
It won’t let me edit my comment above but the punch works by holding the point to your desired mark and drawing the spring back and letting go. Very precise and would be hard to wear out. I like them versus the auto ones.
Here is the list I got while listening…..GREAT episode guys!!!…Thank you.
* only indicates that it’s already in my kit
Staple Gun – Reverse Trigger
* Digital Caliper
Nypex Knippers
Nypex channel wrenches
Silver Sharpie
Royal Penitrating Oil
Cutting mat/Magnetic ?
Ball end Allen Wrenches Vanhuse ?
* 25′ Tape Measure
* Ratcheting Screwdriver
* Cordless Drill
Cloth Tape Measure
Eneloop Rechargagle Batteries
Stanley Sorting Kits
Silicon Tape
*Dremel
Auto centering punch
Unibits
Small Prybar
*Zip Ties
* Ziploc bags
Magnetic Stud finder
Offset Screwdriver
Tweezers
Emory Boards
Vice Grips – Flat Jaw – Needle Nose
LED Flashlight
*Speed Square
Security Bit Set – I fixit
Micro screwdrivers
Scissors – Fabric and another Pair for other material
Why oh why do you ever want cordless power tools?!?! They are always flat or they run flat just as you are getting into what ever you are doing! Corded all the way! Keep an extension cord or two on the shelf with the tools. If working outside, work by the clothes line or under a tree and hook the extension cord over a wire/branch so your cable is always up out of the way of the blades/bits/whatever and so you don’t trip
Scissors- For kitchen shears, select a pair that comes apart! Great to be able to wash them after disassembling a chicken! No more grunge in the pivot!
Nibbling Tool- Somewhat specialized, but ‘nibbles’ slots in thin metals and non-shattering plastics!
–Paul E Musselman
In lieu of a magnetic cutting mat, you can get a magnetic dish– drop small parts into it and the magnet underneath keeps them in place.
–Paul E Musselman
thanks a bunch. I had never heard about that before, but it seems very interesting on first look, will dig in. Is that something that is common knowledge in the US, or mostly known in small circles?
One of the great memories of my life is building my senior project with my Dad. He’s the guy that taught me so much about building even before I was in high school. His idea of a good time was to build something. Forget buying something. He would just build his own. I still have many of his hand tools and the skills I have because of him is golden and the work ethic I inherited from him is priceless. See you in Texas Adam !
I made up a list with Amazon links for everything:
-Staple gun – reverse trigger(forward action):
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_15?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=forward+action+staple+gun&sprefix=forward+action+%2Caps%2C846
-Digital calipers:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=digital+calipers
Flashlight:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=Foursevens+Mini+MLR2+flashlight&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3AFoursevens+Mini+MLR2+flashlight
-Knipex – nippers, wire cutters, strippers:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=knipex+wire+cutter&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aknipex+wire+cutter
-Auto adjustable pliers – Knipex brand (sound like Craftsman gator grips):
http://www.amazon.com/Knipex-002006S1-3-Piece-10-Inch-12-Inch/dp/B000X4KNTG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1417545316&sr=8-3&keywords=knipex
-Metallic Sharpie – silver marker:
http://www.amazon.com/Sharpie-Permanent-Markers-Metallic-39108PP/dp/B00009RAX4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417545604&sr=8-1&keywords=silver+sharpie
-Penetrating oil – like liquid wrench, this is amazing for working on old cars:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_15?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=kroil%20penetrating%20oil&sprefix=penetrating+oil%2Caps%2C194
-Cutting mats – self healing mats for use with xacto knives, magnetic versions:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_13?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=self%20healing%20cutting%20mat&sprefix=self+healing+%2Caps%2C220
Vinyl board covers;
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=vyco%20board%20cover
ESD mats:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=esd+rolls&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Aesd+rolls
-Ball-end hex/allen wrenches – allen wrenches you can use at an angle:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_6?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=bondus+allen+wrench+set&sprefix=bondus%2Caps%2C144&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abondus+allen+wrench+set
-25 ft tape measure:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=25+ft+wide+tape+measure&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3A25+ft+wide+tape+measure
-Ratcheting Screwdrivers – Will recommends standard cheap Ace hardware 4 bit driver:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_12?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=ratchet+screwdriver+set&sprefix=ratchet+scre%2Caps%2C144&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Aratchet+screwdriver+set
Six way screwdriver:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=six+way+screwdriver&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Asix+way+screwdriver
—Tangent about picking a brand of power tools and sticking with it so you don’t end up with tons of chargers and batteries
-Cloth tape measure:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_18?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=cloth+tape+measure&sprefix=cloth+tape+measure%2Caps%2C140&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Acloth+tape+measure
-Stanley organizer trays:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_17?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=stanley+organizer+box&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Astanley+organizer+box
-Silicon tape:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_12?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=silicon+tape&sprefix=silicon+tape%2Caps%2C202&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Asilicon+tape
-Cordless Dremel:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_13?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=cordless+rotary+tool&sprefix=cordless+rota%2Caps%2C142&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Acordless+rotary+tool
-Auto centering punch:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_12?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=automatic+center+punch&sprefix=center+punch%2Caps%2C146&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Aautomatic+center+punch
-Uni-bits – stepped drill bits:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_8?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=stepped+drill+bit&sprefix=stepped+%2Caps%2C136&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Astepped+drill+bit
-Small pry bar:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=small+pry+bar&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Asmall+pry+bar
-Zip ties of all sizes:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=cable+zip+ties&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Acable+zip+ties
-Magnetic stud finder:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_5?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=stud+finder&sprefix=stud+%2Caps%2C138&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Astud+finder
-Offset screwdriver:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_12?url=search-alias%3Dtools&field-keywords=offset+screwdriver&sprefix=Offset+screw%2Caps%2C135&rh=n%3A228013%2Ck%3Aoffset+screwdriver
-Tweezers:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_8?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=tweezers&sprefix=tweezers%2Caps%2C230&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Atweezers
-Vice grips – standard and plate style, also recommend the needle nose style:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_9?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=vice+grips&sprefix=vice+grip%2Caps%2C141&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Avice+grips
-LED flashlights, headlamps
-Aluminum speed square:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_12?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=speed+square&sprefix=speed+square%2Caps%2C747&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Aspeed+square
-Security bit set – for special screws in electronics – iFixIt sells a good one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=a9_sc_1?rh=i%3Aindustrial%2Ck%3Asecurity+screwdriver+bit+set&keywords=security+screwdriver+bit+set&ie=UTF8&qid=1417546979
-Microset of screwdrivers – like jewelers set of drivers:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_4?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=wiha&sprefix=wiha%2Cindustrial%2C147&rh=n%3A16310091%2Ck%3Awiha
Emory boards:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=emery+boards
-Of course…
-Hammers:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_6?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=hammer&sprefix=hammer%2Cgarden%2C185
-Scissors – one for fabric, one for everything else:
Really good scissors:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009DJFPSQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And Cool Tools:
http://www.amazon.com/Cool-Tools-Possibilities-Kevin-Kelly/dp/1940689007/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1417547655&sr=1-1&keywords=cool+tools
Easy fix is having multiple batteries and keeping them charged.
Dewalt and Makita are awsome but pricy. I use Ryobi which is half the price but has an edge over a lot of the chepo tools. You can buy the cordless drills in kits with two batteries and the 18v one has served me well for two years and It´s been used heavily. Building exhibitions and stuff.
A combination square is great for woodworking.
Some interesting background noises in this episode – including a couple of crashes like someone spilled a bucket of bolts.
With a small shifty spanner and a Leatherman, you can fix the world.
The Silicon Tape that they talk about, is this the tape you wrap around the thread of water pipes to seal the connection? The one I think of, we call PTFE tape.
I’ve got a bunch of 3aH batteries, they are always charged. For me, they do perfectly. When I do run out, I just go grab another and throw the flat one on a charger, no big deal. Either way, it is just a matter of personal preference. If I used them every day for work I might have a different choice.
nah, it’s thick, like gaffa tape, but it sticks to itself only. Impressive stuff.
http://m.supercheapauto.com.au/Product/DynaGrip-SOS-Silicone-Tape-49191-Black-25mm-x-3m/326479
personal tools are also great, loved the EDC done by Adam, would love to see a bag dump by Norm and Will as well
I really enjoyed this episode. It gave me the nudge to start making my own tool kit. I’ve been using those cheapo all in one home toolkits with a few odd separate tools I’ve purchased for everything (adding a new motorcycle exhaust, installing a garbage disposal, etc), and it’s always a hassle. I have to make tools work in ways they shouldn’t, often damaging the screws and bolts.
Do any Tested folk have a brand of hand tools they really like that aren’t too pricey? Snap On is definitely out of my price range, and I’ve heard that the quality of Craftsman has gone down in recent years. I’d appreciate any recommendations!
Just wanted to say thanks to Kevin, Adam, Will and Norm for putting this episode together. It is easily one of my favorite Still Untitled and now have quite a few items added to my tool wish list. This makes it easy to grab one thing each trip to the hardware store and not fall prey to wanderlust up and down the aisles.
Thank you!
Bondhus is probably Norwegian or at least Scandinavian. Their products are made in Monticello, MN.
The silicone tape is also called self-fusing or self-vulcanizing tape.
Can anyone recommend a cutting mat? I do bookbinding and the last cheap one I bought is cut all the way through in a few spots.
Adam, you mentioned something just over a month ago about if you are going upstairs take something with you and Visa versa.
Screw drivers and hammers are my only counter point, keep one on each floor.
Second floor my wife and I have the driver that Will was talking about.
First floor we have the ratcheting driver Kevin was talking about
Cellar work room, I have all of the above including a set of regular drives.
I want to mention somethings though. Shortly after graduating and getting my first car I purchased a small Craftsman tool set, that was 1980. Now 14 years later I still have that set, I have lost sockets and mistreated some of the tools but they still work.
I have found that the other good thing about the ratcheting screw drivers is the kits that have all the bits. Which will also work on drills.
Adam I am a little surprised that you have never mentioned Evergreen or Plasi-struct. I used to customize car models like: by making the doors & trunk open, wiring the engines to look more realistic etc.. So I have a small stock pile of evergreen struts, sheets and tubes and have found uses for them again and again. I broke my fridge door liner the bottom shelf cracked from snagging the rail. The liner is also made from Styrine plastic liquid glue in the crack, evergreen braces over the crack and the door is fine.
Prior in this comment someone mentioned the magnetic reaching tool. lets not forget the grabbing one. Cat toys under furniture etc.. I changed my spark plugs recently first time I did it in years and my sponge cushion in the spark plug socket and shrunk so would stay on the plug. I used the grabber to insert the plugs into the deep well gently then took the sponge off and used the socket to install the plugs.
I have a slide caliper, not digital not even metal, it still is one of my go to tools. I can measure something and repeat the dimension fairly closely with in .001 or so. Would I rely on the dimensions to give to someone else and get the same thing? No, it is not that reliable, but for me to recreate with it it is close enough. So a digital caliper may be a bit more than needed. Granted they are easier to read.
I’d highly recommend adding Japanese Electronic screwdrivers (JIS) which has a more squared off/sharp tip for screws you’ll find on laptops, cameras, etc. Normal mini drivers don’t bite these right and usually end up messing them up. If you get the iFixIt kit it has the bits.
Also, did anyone else get this particular ‘recommended videos’ at the end? The History Channel: “Ancient Torture” – center square. Not so sure.
Highly recommend the Fenix E05, runs on AAA with 3 brightness settings, fits in jeans watch pocket.
I love that no one acknowledges Adam’s “It’s French” joke.
I giggled, Adam. I’ve got you.
x-acto or scalpel…also a cutting edge, I love using metal french curves for cutting ……well curves
I have heard of many issues with dremel or dremel type tools…Now I believe that the spindle is coming directly out of the motor without any clutch like in a drill for example.. so as we put pressure on the spindle it slowly busts the motor. I now use the flexible wand thing. You can put so much more pressure on the tool (which lets remember is a speed tool not a torque tool so the pressure is very little anyway) also you don’t have the tool in your hand vibrating as it spins giving greater dexterity and less fatigue.
For those of us in the UK Halfords Professional range is amazing. I have their ratchet spanners and screwdrivers among other items and they are a pleasure to use. There are 100’s of tool items that were not mentioned but the one to go into a basic tool box is a 2 inch palette knife. perfect for applying putty, or poly filler also great for scraping away old paint or cleaning away oil spills,
That is an awesome episode! I didn’t get to see for myself what Cool Tools really is but I would actually love to see it translated to different languages, and metric systems. I’m form Poland, so i’d love to get this book in Polish, to give away to my friends, who don’t speak english, and if they do, they don’t know the names of specific tools.
There Is also nothing more frustrating than getting measurements for your project not in your native measurement system- like when you do following any “overseas” DIY tutorial online. You either think metric or imperial 😉
Re: Vicegrips… I blew a brake line in my work truck at a job site. I just vice clamped the line above the rupture, topped off the fluid and finished the day.
re: Why battery-powered tools?
When you’re fixing a board fence along the driveway it’s nice not to have to drag an extension cord behind you! Of course, a battery-powered tool is much better when you have at least 1 spare battery; preferably 2!
–Paul E Musselman
Ive gotten that one as a recommended vid a few times in the last week, not just on Tested videos either, but all kinds of non-torture stuff :p
Stanley Lock Knife that you find comfortable.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=stanley+folding+knife
Led Light Strip and Headlamp.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rolson-61770-LED-Camping-Light/dp/B002JM0JIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1292450425&sr=8-1
Steel Rules.
Needle Nose, Combi, Snipe Nose pliers andVise/Mole Grips.
G Clamps – small and medium sized.
Ratcheting screwdriver and multiple heads – get one with a lifetime warranty (like snap-on) the ratchet mechanism will fail eventually.
Decent battery drill for 90% of stuff and a corded drill for masonry/concrete work with an array of bits.
Spirit level/Inclinometer
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00AFORP54?psc=1
Dead Blow Hammer
Ring Spanner Set/Ratchet Set
Fixings – screws, bolts, nails, rawl plugs. etc
Cleco Pliers and pins – if they’re into metal working
Hand pulled pop/blind riveter
p.s.
Auto Centre Punches always fail, the plunger wears.
Don’t cut corrugated card with it, it dulls so quickly
do you mean this?
https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/54-Bit-Driver-Kit/IF145-022-1
Stanley Lock Knife that you find comfortable.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=stanley+folding+knife
Led Light Strip and Headlamp.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rolson-61770-LED-Camping-Light/dp/B002JM0JIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1292450425&sr=8-1
Steel Rules.
Needle Nose, Combi, Snipe Nose pliers andVise/Mole Grips.
G Clamps – small and medium sized.
Ratcheting screwdriver and multiple heads – get one with a lifetime warranty (like snap-on) the ratchet mechanism will fail eventually.
Decent battery drill for 90% of stuff and a corded drill for masonry/concrete work with an array of bits.
Spirit level/Inclinometer
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00AFORP54?psc=1
Dead Blow Hammer
Ring Spanner Set/Ratchet Set
Fixings – screws, bolts, nails, rawl plugs. etc
Cleco Pliers and pins – if they’re into metal working
Hand pulled pop/blind riveter
masking, duct, aluminium, electrical, silicone tapes.
p.s.
Auto Centre Punches always fail, the plunger wears.
Don’t cut corrugated card with it, it dulls so quickly
do you mean this?
https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/54-Bit-Driver-Kit/IF145-022-1
Stanley Lock Knife that you find comfortable.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=stanley+folding+knife
Led Light Strip and Headlamp.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rolson-61770-LED-Camping-Light/dp/B002JM0JIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1292450425&sr=8-1
Steel Rules.
Needle Nose, Combi, Snipe Nose pliers andVise/Mole Grips.
G Clamps – small and medium sized.
Ratcheting screwdriver and multiple heads – get one with a lifetime warranty (like snap-on) the ratchet mechanism will fail eventually.
Decent battery drill for 90% of stuff and a corded drill for masonry/concrete work with an array of bits.
Spirit level/Inclinometer
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00AFORP54?psc=1
Dead Blow Hammer
Ring Spanner Set/Ratchet Set
Fixings – screws, bolts, nails, rawl plugs. etc
Cleco Pliers and pins – if they’re into metal working
Hand pulled pop/blind riveter
masking, duct, aluminium, electrical, silicone tapes.
p.s.
Auto Centre Punches always fail, the plunger wears.
Don’t cut corrugated card with it, it dulls so quickly
do you mean this?
https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/54-Bit-Driver-Kit/IF145-022-1
I’ve used cordless tools a few times at other people’s places and cordless is fine until there are several tools being used for a task, or a number of people using multiple tools. I don’t use tools often enough to leave batteries sitting on a charger between uses. I think cordless tools would be fine if you use them 2-3 days a week though
yeah, I got that
my driveway fence was built using a corded drill on a 15m cord, only had to change the socket it was plugged into once
Stanley Lock Knife that you find comfortable.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=stanley+folding+knife
Led Light Strip and Headlamp.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rolson-61770-LED-Camping-Light/dp/B002JM0JIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1292450425&sr=8-1
Steel Rules.
Needle Nose, Combi, Snipe Nose pliers andVise/Mole Grips.
G Clamps – small and medium sized.
Ratcheting screwdriver and multiple heads – get one with a lifetime warranty (like snap-on) the ratchet mechanism will fail eventually.
Decent battery drill for 90% of stuff and a corded drill for masonry/concrete work with an array of bits.
Spirit level/Inclinometer
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00AFORP54?psc=1
Dead Blow Hammer
Ring Spanner Set/Ratchet Set
Fixings – screws, bolts, nails, rawl plugs. etc
Cleco Pliers and pins – if they’re into metal working
Hand pulled pop/blind riveter
masking, duct, aluminium, electrical, silicone tapes.
p.s.
Auto Centre Punches always fail, the plunger wears.
Don’t cut corrugated card with it, it dulls so quickly
do you mean this?
https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/54-Bit-Driver-Kit/IF145-022-1
Have you seen Incra rules? I am a little surprised one of these gems has not been seen in any of Adam’s shop videos – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4P-I8b2rxs
My driveway’s over 200 yards long… although the fence is only 50 yards long…
-Paul E Musselman
if you want a machinist speed square (like Adam was wishing someone made) check this guy out.. he mades precision ground ones that are hardened, gun blued and come in a nice wooden box.. they are some amazing work!! https://www.youtube.com/user/shadonhkw
I love that when you guys are giving suggestions, you often are not going with a certain brand, or model that might be unavailable elsewhere, unless its a brand that matters (I will not buy adjustable pliers that are not Chan-NEL-Lock) But you often say what type, or what feature to look for that is useful.
A lot of the tools are ones I know about, but its the kinds of things that took me a while to figure out. And sometimes there are new ones to think about.
On the topic of ball end hex keys, you can also get ball end ratchet extensions. Not as much flex as a standard u-joint, but you can apply more torque, and can get better control (u-joints being notorious for popping sockets off, and rounding bolts)
Another thing that a lot of people don’t know, you can buy screw bits in large packets, in longer lengths, and by type. Handy for those home reno projects or just replacing worn bits. To me screw-bits are a consumable. once they are no longer sharp and engage well, I replace them. Nothing ruins screws like a worn bit, and it just saves so much trouble. You can get really cheap ones if you tend to loose things, or buy contractor grade ones. Also great if you are working on a project with a couple friends, or kids.
for anyone in Canada (or the US for that matter) Lee Valley is sort of like a cool tools store for woodwork and gardening, among other stuff. Generally best in class or just really well thought out tools.
I definitely just listened to this with an Amazon window open, adding things to my wishlist. Thanks so much guys!
Speaking of batteries. Somehow i always have lots of the small kind of A batteries in a drawer when all the regular ones run out (forget how many A’s, but the smallest ones). Since they both are 1,5 volts i take some aluminum foil and roll it to a ball for the small battery to reach the lead in, for example, a tv-remote.
And a pair of nail scissors dedicated for nose hair is pretty sweet.
I just wanted to add a tool that has saved me a bunch of times. It is a set of drill bits that allow you to rout out a stripped Philips head screw. One can then reverse the bit and easily un-screw a locked screw or Philips head bolt. The set was not cheap as I recall, however they have really come in handy many times for rusty or particularly troublesome screws.
Great episode, the first few things you mentioned are all owned already! but… I was disappointed to hear that Adam had not changed over to recyclable batteries. It was mentioned in a podcast years ago and I have always wondered if he had changed over.
Norm and Will please remind him every week until he changes over and well done for changing over yourselves 🙂
Adam’s tool list from Wired:
http://www.wired.com/2012/08/adam-savages-tools
Can someone tell me the brand/model of the “change pocket LED flashlight” that Kevin mentions – I tried to Google based on the key words I caught, but no luck…
The list was a great add to the show. I am trying to get the tools together for a project and the mention of the digital calipers is one I had not thought of. great job on the show
Whole Earth Catalog
Really enjoyed this episode 🙂 Kevin has such a ready laugh, it’s a fun sound. Agree with all the tool choices for the box, had a little tweak to add to the 25′ tape measure: Get one that has the locking mechanism the other way round. You extend the tape, it stays extended until you squeeze the retract and then it retracts.
Like this one: http://www.bunnings.com.au/lufkin-8m-autolock-tape-measure_p5660206
It’s surprising how much better this is 🙂
you can get some cracking stuff called kraken tape in the uk, its instant seal tape even when went and up to something like 10bar water
In the uk theatre we use quad spanners which are great, perhaps for an extended box
http://www.flints.co.uk/acatalog/Quad-Spanners.html
precision speed square:
http://www.woodpeck.com/carpentersq6.html
catching up with old episodes listened to this and googled forward action stable gun to see a picture. Then a few minutes later Kevin mentioned Knipex nippers. I put my cursor in the text box and low and behold guess what came up! Knipex nippers. Wow google has stored a pattern for suggestion after someone search for forward action stable gun. I attached a screenshot for your viewing enjoyment.
Not something for the basic toolbox..well maybe
Knipex concreters’ nippers!. Good for what it is made for (fixing rebar with wire, so pinching twisting and snipping all day long) but also good for generally pinching the heck out of something or ripping up/out stuff or grabbing and levering out and such. 61Rh head
Not all cross head screwdrivers are Philips head.
Posidriv screwdriver bits for use on PZ screws. What few people know is that a Philips head screw bit is made to pop out as a torque limiting feature before torque limiting was common place on tools,that is why they tend to pop out just before you are done and then chew the screw up.
The firesword wasn’t developed by Google, nor was it an internal project in more than they bought the unassembled parts from the manufacturer and people (largely hwops as I heard it) assembled them to get them cheaper. Most of engineering were given them.
The original design comes from a company called Elektro Lumens http://elektrolumens.com/FireSword-V/FireSword-V.html
You can tell the ones made for Google because instead of Elektro Lumens written around the end it says “Google” in multicolour. I have one and I also love showing people just how absurd it is. I’ve used it to light rooms up when the power is out, and that’s set one one-third power (there’s a jumper on the board by the LEDs to switch between full and one third power), it can be turned on with a pushbutton in the base or screwed in to be on full time.
I know this is an old podcast at this poing, but I’m just now stumbling upon this podcast.
They mention offset screwdrivers, just wanted to say the ratcheting offset screwdriver is my favorite tool for dealing with hard to reach screws and what not. Great for tight spaces under the car hood.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Husky-8-Piece-Bit-Ratchet-Set/dp/B00C2TITNC