Someone recently asked me what my favorite tool is. That’s a tough question because whenever I’m using a tool that really works like it’s intended, I feel a sense of satisfaction.
Which tool is most versatile? That would probably be my table saw. In addition to cutting square or mitered (angled) cuts, I use it to rip boards to narrower widths. With the added dado blades, I can make more elaborate, and stronger, joints.
Which tool saves me the most time? Electric sanders. I’m not sure what it is about sanding by hand that makes me crazy. Maybe it’s the repetitive motion. Perhaps the fact that it takes so long to see much progress — not like cutting, drilling, etc. Possibly, it’s because the primary goal of sanding is aesthetic. In any event, both my belt sander and palm-held sander are wonderful, time-saving tools that greatly improve the results of my woodworking projects.
Still, I’d have to say that the table saw is my favorite. What about you? What’s your favorite tool? Why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.