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Best Compact Circular Saw 2018 Reviews and Comparisons
If you need a compact circular saw to help you get a lot of jobs done, take a look at the list of products found below. We believe that there are some impressive compact circular saws on the market right now, but we have chosen 5 of the very best so that you can compare them. If you don’t want to spend the money on a regular saw, or you simply don’t have enough room for one, check out the saws below, so you can get the job done for less, without compromising on quality.
So, What are the products on offer?
At Number One...
Makita SH01ZW
The Makita SH01ZW has a 3-3/8 inch blade and the ability to make up to 70 cuts of plywood that are ½ an inch by 12 inches, helping you to get a lot of work done, without you having to stop and charge the battery very often. With 1,400 RPM, the blade allows you to cut a lot faster, meaning you can get the job done a lot quicker.
Weighing just 1.5 pounds, the Makita SH01ZW is quite light, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t capable of getting the job done. If you don’t want or need a heavy circular saw, the SH01ZW could be ideal. Measuring 12 x 8 x 8 inches, the Makita is ideal if you don’t have a lot of workspace, but you need to get a job done well.
Manufacture: | Makita | |
Modal: | SH01ZW | |
Weight: | 20.4 Pounds | |
Power: | 12 Volts |
With a blower function that keeps your line of sight clear, so you can see exactly where you’re cutting, and with a soft grip handle, this model can make cutting wood so much easier. Potential buyers should be aware that the Makita SH01ZW does not come with a battery or charger, so they will need to be purchased separately. With a cutting depth of 1 inch at 90 degrees, and 5/8 of an inch at 45 degrees and sold for approximately $75-$125, this model is ideal for a wide range of jobs.
Number Two...
PORTER-CABLE PCE381K
The PORTER-CABLE PCE381K has a 4 ½ inch blade, which is slightly bigger than the Makita model, meaning it could help you to cut those thicker blocks of wood. With 3,500 RPM, and a cutting depth of 1 11/16 inches, again this model is capable of offering you a little more. Priced at approximately $130, and with a dust port that helps to keep your bench clean, this 5.5 amp saw is worth considering.
Manufacture: | Porter-Cable | |
Modal: | PCE381K | |
Weight: | 6 Pounds | |
Power: | 5.5 amp |
Measuring 17 x 5 x 6 inches, the PORTER-CABLE circular saw is not the biggest on the market, but weighing in a 6 pounds, it isn’t the lightest either. Offering users the chance to make a variety of cuts thanks to its 0-45 degree bevel capacity, the PCE381K comes with a saw, rip fence, a kit bag, and a 24 tooth blade. Small enough to fit on a bench even in the smallest of work areas, and light enough so you can move it around should you need to, the PORTER-CABLE PCE381K has an attractive gray/black finish meaning it shouldn’t look out of place in any garage or workshop.
Number Three...
Rockwell RK3441K
The Rockwell RK3441K circular saw is a tough-looking piece of equipment that comes with a 4 ½ inch saw, and the ability to work at 3,500 RPM. Sold for approximately $82, this model is a lot cheaper than some circular saws, but this does not mean that the quality has been compromised.
Weighing just 5 pounds, and measuring 18.2 x 4.2 x 6.9 inches, the Rockwell RK3441K is slightly longer than some models, but it still feels quite compact.
Manufacture: | Rockwell | |
Modal: | RK3441K | |
Weight: | 5 Pounds | |
Power: | 120 Volts |
With the ability to cut materials that are less than 2 inches thick, and with a comfortable handle, users can hold the wood with one hand, and easily control the saw with the other. Even though this saw has a thinner and smaller blade than some conventional saws that come with a 7 ¼ inch blade, it can deliver exactly the same, without straining the motor, or making the job harder than it needs to be.
Number Four...
Genesis GCS545C
The Genesis GCS545C circular saw has a modern finish, and a 4 ½ inch saw that comes with a carbide tipped blade. Weighing 5 pounds and measuring 16 x 4.2 x 8 inches, the saw comes with a 5.8 amp motor, and steel gears, meaning it can get to work for you with ease.
With the ability to cut through 2x wood, and other materials in one go, the Genesis circular saw is set to impress. With a lightweight design and a comfortable handle, users should have very little difficulty getting the job done.
Manufacture: | Genesis | |
Modal: | GCS545C | |
Weight: | 5 Pounds | |
Power: | 5.8 amp |
Sold for approximately $55, this particular circular saw is thought to be one of the cheapest on the market right now, but this does not mean it’s not worth considering. With triple gear reduction, so you benefit from maximum torque, and a dust port that helps to keep surfaces free of dust, if you’re looking for a reliable low-cost circular saw, you may wish to consider this one.
Number Five...
WORX WORXSAW
The WORX WORXSAW that offers 3,500 RPM gives the impression that it has been made to tackle tough jobs with ease. Weighing in at 6 pounds, and measuring 15.1 x 4.2 x 5.8 inches, the saw is a little shorter than some, but it’s still quite mighty. With a thin blade that strains the motor a little less than many other saws, the WORXSAW comes with a 4 ½ inch blade, and cut-line visibility, ensuring the users can see where they’re cutting at all times.
This particular saw can be used by those with small hands, as the handle is not too wide, making it ideal for those who often struggle to find a saw that doesn’t have a bulky handle.
Manufacture: | WORXSAW | |
Modal: | WX429L | |
Weight: | 6 Pounds | |
Power: | 3,500 RPM |
With 0-45 degree bevel setting, and a comfortable grip, this circular saw in well worth considering. Sold for approximately $70, and with an easy-to-set depth gauge lever, this compact circular saw could potentially be one of the very best on the market.
Buying Guide…
What size blade should I get?
The size of the blade you buy will be determined by the type of saw that you buy. You may be looking to buy a large blade so you can undertake work that involves cutting thick pieces of wood, but it may not fit into your saw. Consult the users manual for more information about the size of the blades you can use in your circular saw. If you buy a blade that’s too big, you might not be able to secure it in place, which could potentially be very dangerous. If you buy a blade that’s too small, chances are you won’t be able to secure it or cut your wood, this ultimately means that you’ll need a saw that’s just right.
Compact circular saw blades are typically 4 ½ inches in diameter, so you should opt for one of this size. If you’re not sure what size saw you should buy, please consult the users manual. Some manufacturers offer a ‘One size ( 4 ½ inches) fits all’ saw, whereas others do not, so please determine what makes and models are suitable for your compact circular saw.
How much power should you get?
Ideally, you should look for a compact circular saw that comes with a good amount of RPM. When choosing from a range of saws, try not to worry too much about the amount of amps, rather you should concentrate on the RPM. This is because the more revolutions per minute the saw offers, the more control that you have while you’re cutting.
The better the control, the more accurate your cut will be, meaning the finished product will be so much better. Another benefit of using a circular saw with a high RPM is that you’ll get jobs done a little quicker than you would using a saw with a low RPM. Try to opt for the highest amount of RPM for your money, so you have more control, and you get the job done quickly.
Should I buy a cordless circular saw?
Cordless circular saws are typically more expensive than their corded counterparts, however, they can give you a lot of freedom to move from place to place, and they can even make the saw’s maneuverability a little better.
If you’re working in an area that does not have many outlets, or all of them are being used, you may want to opt for a cordless model. Bear in mind that you will need to charge the battery before you use your new saw, but you should be able to do that just about anywhere. For example, if you’re planning on using your circular saw in your garage, and all your outlets are full, charge the battery somewhere in your home, where it’s not going to be disturbed.
Lastly, if you simply do not like having many leads around you, a cordless circular saw is the best option. Less hazardous, while allowing you to move around your workshop with ease, a cordless circular saw could make your work area a lot safer.
Questions We Are Frequently Asked…
How much smaller is a compact circular saw?
A compact circular saw is typically a few inches shorter and smaller than a regular circular saw. There may be occasions when you simply don’t need to use a regular sized circular saw, especially if you’re planning to cut up small pieces of wood.
Alternatively, you may be short on work space, so having a compact model means you can still get the job done, but you don’t have to struggle to find enough room.
Compact circular saws can be ideal if you don’t have a fixed office. Carrying a large circular saw around can be quite difficult, especially as they’re not always very light. A compact circular saw can fit into a toolbox or bag, and as they typically weigh less than 7 pounds, they can usually be taken from place to place with relative ease.
Do the Blades differ from a normal circular saw?
Yes, the blades that you find in a compact circular saw are typically a lot smaller than they are in a regular saw. The larger saws often come with blades that measure 7 ¼ inches, which can be as much as 3 inches bigger than those found on their compact counterparts. The blades found in normal circular saws are usually ideal for those larger jobs that need to be finished quickly.
Smaller circular saws typically come with blades that measure 4 ½ inches, which are a lot smaller, and are therefore ideal for those occasions when a larger circular saw is not needed. Consult the users manual for more information about the size of the blades you can use in your circular saw.
In getting a compact circular saw, do you lose power?
Compact circular saws typically have about 15 amps of power, whereas a compact circular saw may only have 5.8 amps. In this respect, you will lose a little bit of power, but this should not be too noticeable. However, if you are planning on using a compact saw to do a regular saw’s job, this is where you will notice the difference. Compact saws have been made to tackle smaller jobs, and therefore should only be used in these circumstances.
The amount of amps used is indicative of the amount needed for you to carry out particular jobs. Therefore, if you want to cut a lot of wood, and you want to do it quickly, you should opt for a larger saw. If you have a compact saw, you should only use it for smaller jobs, as the model you’re using would have been manufactured to tackle smaller jobs.
If you do undertake work that requires a lot more power, you should consider using a larger circular saw. However, if you also undertake work that requires a lot less power, here is where a compact circular saw can come in handy.
How to use a compact circular saw?
When you buy a compact circular saw, chances are you will have to attach the blade. Instructions will be provided, but all you will need to do is remove the bolt in the center of the saw, where the blade will be. Attach the blade, making sure the bolt is secured.
Adjust the depth and the angle of the blade if you need to. Depending on the brand of saw that you buy, there may be one or two triggers located on the handle, pressing the triggers will get the blade moving.
Cut into your piece of wood, ensuring that you keep the line that you have drawn within the very first notch on the ruler that is attached to the saw.
Guide your saw so that it cuts the wood in a straight line, ensuring that you keep holding onto any pieces of wood that need to be kept steady.
In Conclusion…
The right compact circular saw for you will depend on your budget, how often you plan to use the saw, and how much control you think you will need. There are a lot of different compact circular saws on the market, but we are confident that you will find the right saw for you in the above list.
If you have any other questions or worries please contact us, or if you have any comments or improvements please leave a comment at the bottom of the page.
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Best Air Impact Wrench 2018 Reviews and Comparisons
If you are looking for an air impact wrench to help you get a wide range of jobs done around the home, you’re in the right place. Below you will find reviews of five air impact wrenches that we believe are the best on the market right now. Ranging in size, weight, power, features, and price these impact wrenches offer you the chance to get your jobs done with a lot less fuss. It doesn’t matter whether you’re skilled at DIY, or you’re about to embark on your very first project, you need the right tool for the job, and chances are you’ll find the right tool below.
Products Reviews
The Dewalt DWMT70773L is a ½ inch square drive impact wrench that comes with a maximum torque of 659ft-lbs which can effectively help users to free nails and other objects that have become stuck. With 7,500 RPM, this impact wrench is certainly heavy duty, and users may enjoy the forward/reverse switch that they can use while holding the wrench with one hand.
Weighing just 5.3 pounds, the Dewalt DWMT70773L is a little lighter than it looks, making it easier to use than some heavier models. The product dimensions are 10.8 x 9.3 x 3.6 inches, enabling the users to get into some reasonably tight gaps, without much of a struggle.
A strong and durable unit with quite a good reputation, the Dewalt DWMT70773L comes with a 3-year warranty and priced at approximately $140.00 this air impact wrench is ideal for those tough jobs that need a lot of power.
Pros
- It is small in size
- It is heavy duty tool
Cons
- It is Heavier than some other models
The DEWALT DWMT70775 is a little smaller than the first model, but that does not mean it doesn’t pack a lot of power. Sold for approximately $68.00 depending on the retailer the 3/8 inch square impact drive wrench has a maximum torque of 300ft-lbs and works at 11,000 revolutions per minute, which is certainly a lot more than the larger DWMT70773L. With a twin hammer mechanism and an adjustable power regulator, users can adjust the power as they please, meaning they can have less or more power whenever they need it.
This particular model does seem to have quite a good reputation for being a sturdy power tool, despite its small size. Weighing in at just 3.2 pounds and standing at only 9.3 x 8.3 x 2.9 inches, you could be forgiven for thinking that it lacks the power it needs to do a wide range of jobs effectively, but the DEWALT DWMT70775 is up to scratch and seems to offer the right balance between a professional tool, and a cheaper less effective model.
Pros
- It is reasonable in price
- Light weight
Cons
- It has 11,000 RPM in power
The AIRCAT 1150 is a powerful-looking air impact wrench that offers an incredible 900 ft-lbs making it one of the most powerful wrenches you can buy. The rotor is 15% larger than many others, allowing the AIRCAT to give you all the power you need to get the job done. Sold for approximately $160.00 the 1150 offers 1,400 rpm and weighs just 4.5 pounds making it lighter than it looks. The product dimensions are: 7.5 x 2.8 x 7 inches making the AIRCAT smaller yet mightier than many air impact wrenches on the market today.
Ideal for use if you’re repairing cars, or you simply need a lot of power, this model has a good reputation. Some customers have stated that the trigger can be a little difficult to use and that they need to press it down firmly before the AIRCAT fires up. Otherwise, it’s a powerful tool that seems to work just as well as other brands while offering a lot more power.
Pros
- It allows plenty of storage
- It is equipped with built in locking system
Cons
- It can become very heavy
- It is not easily maneuvered
The Ingersoll Rand 231C is priced at approximately $133.00, and has an attractive stainless-steel like finish. With the ability to deliver 600 ft-lbs of torque, and an easy to use design, the 231C has been designed with your comfort in mind.
The twin hammer mechanism helps to deliver an effective performance, and will help you dislodge lug nuts, bolts and more. Offering up to 8,000 rpm, the Ingersoll Rand may not offer as much in the way of torque, but if that’s not what you’re looking for, this model will do just fine. Standing at 8.2 x 3.4 x 8.8 inches, and weighing just 2 pounds, this smaller air impact wrench may be ideal when you’re working in tighter spots that are not suited to a larger model.
Made in China, and with a reasonably good reputation, the Ingersoll Rand 231C offers you the chance to tackle those jobs that need a lot of rpm, while giving you a good amount of power that will help to get the job done.
Pros
- It is Stainless Steal
- It only ways 2 pounds
Cons
- It has not got as much power
The PowRyte Basic is perhaps one of the cheapest air impact wrenches on the market, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best. Selling for approximately $45.00 the PowRyte Basic 1/2-inch air impact wrench offers 600 ft-lbs and 8,000 RPM. With the ability to offer forward and reverse functions at full power, and with a built in silencer, this air impact wrench has a lot to offer.
Weighing 6 pounds, and standing at 7.7 x 7.5 x 2.8 inches the PowRyte Basic has a good reputation as being a sturdy tool that can get the job done quickly. You will need to oil this air impact wrench before you use it, but it does come with a bottle of oil, and the promise to be powerful, despite its low price. Thought to be ideal for brake and exhaust repairs, and tightening and loosening bolts, the PowRyte Basic could be the ideal air impact wrench if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, but you still need a great deal of power.
Pros
- It is low in price
- Built in silencer
Cons
- You have to oil it before use
Buying guide
Power
The amount of power that you need will depend on the jobs that you plan to undertake. If you’re looking to unscrew bolts and lugs that typically refuse to move, you will need an air impact wrench that comes with a lot of torque. The higher the torque, the greater the ability to loosen and ultimately remove those stubborn lugs.
If you don’t need to use a lot of power, and you simply want to get some light jobs done, it may be worth your while opting for an air impact wrench that has a little less power. If you’re not sure how much power you’re going to need, try to opt for an impact wrench that gives you approximately 600 ft-lbs, as this seems to be the average, and perhaps the best option to go for.
You may want to think about borrowing a friends impact wrench just to see how you get on with it. Make a note of the make and model, and see if it works well for you. If the wrench you’re borrowing is more than a few years old, chances are there’s a better model on the market right now, and it might offer you even more torque.
If you don’t know anyone who has their own impact wrench, ask a mechanic or someone who works in a hardware store, as they may be able to help you out.
Should it be cordless?
If you need to use an air impact wrench in a number of different places, it should ideally be portable. Dragging short cords around your home/garage/workshop can sometimes be a little dangerous and cumbersome. A cordless impact wrench will be so much easier to use, allowing you to move from place to place as you wish, when you wish, however they don’t always have very much power. This is where an air impact wrench can come in and make all the difference.
One little piece of advice that you may find useful is that the right air impact wrench for you may be the wrong impact wrench for someone else. If you need to use a wrench that is ideal for heavy duty jobs, you may need a completely different model to your neighbor’s wrench that is only used around the home from time to time.
Price
The price of an air impact wrench can vary depending on where you buy the product, who the seller is, and if there are any deals currently taking place. If you’re looking for an air impact wrench that offers you a lot of power and RPM, you should be prepared to spend a little more. If you’re looking for a budget product, you may end up paying less than $50 for it, but it may not have the torque or RPM that you need.
Pay what you can afford to pay to ensure you get the most amount of power for your money. If power is not important to you, simply look for an impact wrench that has a lot of RPM and a good reputation, chances are it will work well for you.
Questions
What makes it different from the impact wrench?
Air impact wrenches need to be connected to an air compressor, otherwise they won’t be able to work. Connecting them to an air compressor can make them very portable as compressors typically have long cords or leads. Cordless impact wrenches typically don’t have very much power, so they might not be up to the serious jobs that you need to do, especially as they tend to offer just half of the torque that air impact wrenches have.
How does it work?
An air impact wrench, also known as a pneumatic wrench works by using a twisting motion so that bolts and fasteners are freed. Although different models and brands can differ in how much torque they have, they all pretty much work in the same sort of way.
The air impact wrench works by creating and then storing energy in a rotating mass, before releasing it into the output shaft. This amount of energy puts a lot of force onto the lug or bolt that you’re trying to loosen and remove, thereby making it so much easier for you to undo those stubborn bolts that have previously refused to move.
The bolt that you are trying to loosen or tighten is moved intermittently when the air impact wrench is driving it forward, or backwards. Because the RPM on air impact wrenches is so quick, you won’t notice those brief moments when the bolt or lug is stationary. The quicker the RPM, the quicker your bolt is likely to tighten or loosen.
What do you use them for?
Many people choose to use an air impact wrench when they are fixing cars. Mechanics tend to use them everyday as they can effectively remove bolts that hold tires in place, and bolts that are located elsewhere on a vehicle. Occasionally only an air impact wrench will do the job required, simply because many bolts may need to be loosened or tightened, or they have previously proven too hard to remove.
But this tool is not only used in commercial garages, those who work in the construction industry also tend to use an air impact wrench, as powerful wrenches are often required to fix bolts in place during the construction process.
Some factories use this type of tool on their production line, as they have proven to be a quick and effective tool when a job needs to be done quickly.
What else do you need if you get an air impact wrench?
If you intend to purchase an air impact wrench, you will need to have a source of compressed air. Air compressors can be quite large, which means you will need to make sure you have enough room for it. Air compressors are not necessarily too costly, but some can be noisy, so you may need to wear ear protection if this is the case.
Another vital piece of equipment that you will need is a pair of protective goggles. Bolts and lugs can occasionally become loose and get flung through the air because of the amount of energy that is used to loosen them. It is therefore very important that you wear a pair of safety goggles that will help to protect your eyes from bolts.
You will also need to think about wearing a pair of gloves while you work, as your hands may slip from time to time, and you may come in contact with some of the wrenches moving parts.
Lastly, you will also need to purchase some oil, so that you can keep your wrench moving nicely. Some air impact wrenches are sold with small bottles of oil, whereas others are not. In any case, make sure you have plenty of oil, and remember to apply some oil everytime you use your air impact wrench.
Conclusion
The right air impact wrench for you will depend on how much power you need it to have, what your budget is, and of course, what you need it for. There are many different air impact wrenches on the market today, but we are confident that you will find the right tool for you from our list of the best air impact wrenches.
If you have any other questions or worries please contact us, or if you have any comments or improvements please leave a comment at the bottom of the page.
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Best Portable Workbenches 2018 Reviews and Comparisons
Are you someone who goes working in different places and needs a good quality work surface? If so then a workbench is a very wise option. Providing stability and a flat secure surface, it is a perfect investment.
Product Reviews
This product is an aluminium stand and wooden worktop workbench, and much more. This workbench has four different positions it can be changed into. One, it can be use a very stable workbench with an additional drill holes tool tray and saw slot giving a place for everything so don’t have to put it on your work surface or on the floor. Two, you have the step that can hold up to 650 Lbs of capacity and has anti-slip step board. Three, if you fold it flat and take out the wheels at the bottom it can be used as a slider for doing maintenance under a car. Four, buy fulling up the handles you can turn the slider into a heavy lifting trolley. It weighs 48.5 pounds and in size is 47.4 x 24.4 x 4.6 inches.
Pros
- It is a four in one
- It is made of aluminium so it is solid
Cons
- It weigh it total 49.5
Our top Workbench pick is the Black & Decker WM425. In addition, it has a four star rating from the customer reviews. The stand is made out of Steal and is coated in a black cover. It can hold up to 550 pounds, which is more than 14 times its own weight. The Work top a varnished wood, which has different markings and measurement to help you out on your task. In addition it has a one handed clamp system that opens up the middle of the wood, you place the object in there, then you close it and it will stay in that fixed position. This work benched can also be manoeuvred into four different positions, allowing full versatility in using this product. It weighs 38 Pounds and its detentions are 31.2 x 28.9 x 30.3 inches.
Pros
- It can hold up to 14 times its weight
- It can be maneuvered into four different positions
Cons
- The working surface is not massively big
The HICO 4-in-1 is the down grade of the 5-in-1, however is not any worse quality. With an aluminium finish and 5 star review it is a great workbench and something to get invested in. it has a saw slot, drill hole and tool stray when using the workbench configuration. The workbench also have marking and measurements to make your job easier. Then it has the anti-slip step board for giving you a hand up. Panultimately it has a creeper carrier that can hold heavy weight to make them easier to manoeuver. Finally, it can be put into a small fully folded form for taking it hassle free from place to place.
Pros
- It is a multi-functional workbench
- It is rated 5 stars from customer reviews
Cons
- It folds flat but still has a big surface area
The Black decked is made out of steel and coted in a black paint, which is water prof, and scratch resistant. It has a woodwork top with a varnish that prevents objects on it from sliding abut. In addition, it has a clamp in the middle, using the winding leavers that move the two parts of wood that put together the work top. The whole structure can hold 350 lbs plenty for doing all the work you need. To carry it about you can just fold it flat making it easy and simple to move from place. In total, it weighs 1.4 pounds, which is incredibly light, theoretically a child could carry it. The detentions are 33.3 x 5 x 5 inches, and if you are still not sure, it comes with 2 a year warranty.
Pros
- It only weighs 1.4 pounds
- It comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons
- It is not very big
The Keter folding workbench provides a strong work area that you can take to any project. You can rely on this table to allow you to do any job from doing the sanding, cutting metal to hammering in nails into wood. The durable legs will not let you down being able to do any task you need. It is also equipped with a set of clamps helping you out even further. They are also one handed so while holding something you can clamp it and it will hold it securely in place. The Keter workbench provides ample space on the work to and can hold up to 1000 pounds. Withstanding its heavy-duty capacity’s it can easily fold up into a flat and compacts size, making it easy to carry and move around. It is a size of 21.7 x 33.5 x 29.7 inches and weighs 26.9 pounds.
Pros
- It can hold 1000 pounds in capacity
- It includes a set of clamps
Cons
- It is made of plastic
Buying Guide
When looking for portable workbenches you need to consider these factors. One, you have to find out the weight of your workbench. There is no point finding a really high tec. one, if you cannot actually manoeuver it. Two, when you are moving it about you are going to find it a pain if you go to take it in the van or care are simply store it somewhere and it is too big. If you have a big, space gobbling workbench you may as well get a rolling workbench or tool chest as they can still move but when stationary are more sturdy and are generally bigger. However, back to workbenches you want something that can fold into as small as possible. Three, the material of your workbench is a big factor that will narrow down your search significantly and will be different for different tasks, therefor it is definitely a factor you should take into consideration. I will explain these factors in more detail in the paragraphs below.
Weight
When deciding a weight you need to think carefully, because you could go for the lightest one and it could be a very cheap plastic that wobbles and breaks and you will end up with a broken work bench and 50 dollars out of pocket. Therefore as a general rule anything in the low 20 pounds either is bad quality or is much smaller than you think. Now on to too heavy. As I said before you can attach a lode of things onto a workbench that look good but will put on the extra pounds on and will be impractical. Choosing one of these big objects will, for starters, be a pain. Then they will get so annoying that it will discourage you from moving it, therefore you will defeat the purposes. So as a rough guide do not go above 60 pounds, and be aware that between 50 and 60 pounds is getting on the heavy side of things. Which only leaves between 30 and 40. This is an ideal weight to choose, not to heavy that you can lift it but not too light which will leave you 50 dollars short.
Size
The biggest problem people have with size is that you see a table on the internet that you think is a bargain until I arrives and you find it only coms up to your knees. You may think that “I would not do that” until is 10 times too small. So for starters, you want your workbench to be around hip height, allowing you to bend over and lean on it but not have to find yourself kneeling or crouching. In addition, if you have a workbench any bigger than that you will find that it will not be easily portable. Which brings me on to my next point. Preferably, you want your workbench when you are moving it or storing it, to have a small surface area. Giving you more places to put it and means, you will not have a problem moving it from place to place.
Material
There are so many different combinations of materials you can choose from when looking at workbenches. The materials you can use are wood metal or plastic. However sometimes you will have a metal stand but wooden worktop, or a metal stand with a plastic top, or a plastic stand with metal on top etc. Therefore, you need to think of what would work best for you. However, there is a difference in quality when you go through the various options. Therefore, plastic is thinner, not as strong, and will scratch easily. Stand wise it is the most unstable, therefor heavy loads will be sensible which is not ideal when you are trying to do cutting or measuring heavy objects. As a work top it would be made of thick plastic however that will not help it from getting groves and carve marks which isn’t a problem for a while until the groves and scrapes make it flimsy or uneven which means some time in the not long future you will have to buy another. Metal is price wise above plastic and around the same mark as wood. It is found in most workbenches in the stand section, as it is strong stable but not as heavy as wood. It also folds quit well. As a worktop, it can be very long lasting and hardwearing. Wood is most commonly found I the worktop of workbenches. It is dense high quality but alto heavier to carry. You also find that the manufactures do not usually put a fold in the middle resulting in that it is, to store and manoeuver, much harder. Are Top Material would be a metal stand with a wooden worktop.
Conclusion
I hope that this article has given you some insight into workbenches and you have a better grasp on what you are looking for. Maybe it have given you the thing you were looking for. If so, that is a bonus!
If you have any other questions or worries please contact us, or if you have any comments or improvements please leave a comment at the bottom of the page
2
Best Router Bits 2018 Reviews and Comparisons
Finding the right bit for the job is crucial. Your whole task depends on it. Making a mistake in your chose will affect the outcome of your job and potently seriously harm it. This is why we have decided to put together a few options of router bit sets so you will always have the right bit for the task ahead.
Product reviews
Router bit types and sizes:
- Core Box 1/8"R, 1/4"R
- V Grooving 1/2"
- Round Nose 1/4"R
- Mortising 1/2"
- Dovetail 1/2, 1/4"
- Straight 1/8", 1/4", 3/98", 1/2", 3/4"
- Panel Pilot 1/4"
- Flush Trim 3/8" 1/2", 3/8" 1", 1/2" 1/2", 1/2" 1", 3/4" 1"
- Chamfer 1/2"
- Cove 1/4R, 3/8"R
- Rabbeting 1/4", 5/16", 3/8"
- Classical Cove 5/16"R
- Mave Edge 3/16"R
- Beading 1/2"R
- Double Roman 3/16"R, 1/4"R
- Roman Ogee 5/32"R, 1/4"C
- Rounder Over 1/4"R, 3/8"R, 1/2"R
This router bit set has a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating. It is the new shank ¼ bits. There are 35 peace in the kit and they are made by EDMBG. They are made with a carbide tip so will last longer with less maintenance. It also includes a custom made aluminium carrying case with a handle. Providing a place to keep you bits and do not need to worry that they will get lost.
Pros
- It is a carbide tipped
- It comes in a custom-made aluminium case
Cons
- It doesn’t deliver to all country’s
Router bit types and sizes:
- Keyhole 3/8”, 1/2"
- Dado 5/8”, 1/2” 3/4”
- Slotting 3/8”, 1/4”, 1/2” (depth)
- Beading 3/8”R, 1/8”R, 1/4”R
- Chamfer 15, 22.5, 30, 45 (degrees)
- Dovetail 1/4” 7.5, 3/8” 9, 1/2” 14, 5/8” 14, 3/4”
- Profile Groove bowl, chamfer, point round over, flat round over, classical roman ogee
- V-Groove 90, 90, 90, 60, 60 (degrees)
- Standard trim 1/2”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/8”
- Bevel Trim 30 (degrees)
- Panel Pilot Trim 1”
- Standard Length Core Box 1/2”, 3/8”, 1/4”
- Long Reach Core Box 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”
- Cove 1/8”R, 3/16”R, 1/4”R, 5/16”R, 3/8”R, 1/2”R
- Round Over 1/8”R, 3/16”R, 1/4”R, 5/16”R, 3/8”R, 1/2”R
- Double Round Over x1
- Classical roman Ogee x1
- Roman Ogee 1/4”R 5/32"R
- Ogee Fillet x1
- French Provincial x1
- Classical Cove x1
- Standard Straight 3/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/8”, 1/4”, 7/32”
- Straight Bottom Cleaning 1”
- Straight Undersized Plywood 31/64”, 23/32”
The Yonico 17702 is a 70-bit kit. It has ½-inch shank and is rated 4 out of 5 in its consumer reviews. With the carbide tip, this product will last longer and will not have to be sharpened as much. In addition, it has been fitted in a custom wooden box, and also has carved form to give your bits the ultimate protection.
Pros
- You have a large range and verity of bits
- It is Carbide tipped 1/2” shanks
Cons
- It is slightly more expensive than our top option.
Router bit types and sizes:
- Slotting 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”
- Roman Ogee 1/4”R, 1/8”R
- Classical Cove 5/16”
- Double Ogee 3/16”R
- Double Round-Over 5/32”R
- Chamfer 15, 22.5, 30, 45 (degrees)
- French Baroque x1 – Ogee Flute 3/16”R
- Corner Bead 3/16”R, 1/8”R
- Triple Bead 1/8”R
- Cove 1/2”R, 3/8”R 5/16”R, 1/4”R, 3/16”R, 1/8”R
- Double Roman Ogee Groove x1
- Cove Groove x1
- Bowl & Tray 1/4”R
- 1/4” T-Track 3/8”, 1/2”
- Round-Over 1/2”R, 3/8”R, 5/15”R, 1/4”R, 3/16”R, 1/18”R
- Bevel Trim 25 (degrees)
- 3/4” Mortising with Gullet 3/4”, 5/8”, 1/2”
- Flat Bottom V-Groove x1
- V-Groove 90, 90, 90, 60, 60
- Round Nose 1/4” 5/16”, 3/8” 1/2”, 1/2” 5/8”
- Dovetail 1/4” 7.5, 3/8” 9, 1/2 14, 5/8” 14, 3/4” 14
- Core Box 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”
- Mortising 1” 5/8”
- Straight 1/4” 1/2”, 3/8” 1”, 31/64” 3/4”, 1/2” 1”, 5/8” 3/4”, 23/34” 3/4”, 7/34” 3/4”, 3/4” 3/4"
- Flush Trim 1/2”, 1”, 1/2”, 1”
- Panel Trim x1
- Point-Cut Round Over Groove x1
The Yonico 17702Q is very similar to the 17702. It has a 4.5 star rating for the consumers and is followed up with a lifetime warranty and satisfaction guaranty. One of the differences and what it below the 17702 make is that it only has 1/4-inch shank however is also has carbide tips.
Pros
- It comes with lifetime warranty
- All the pieces are labelled
Cons
- It does not have stiff secure holders so cannot be bashed about
Router bit types and sizes:
- Straight 3/16", 1/4", 1/2", 3/4"
- Round Over 3/8"
- Cove 1/2"
- Roman Ogee 5/32"
- Chamfer 45 (degrees)
- Flush Trim 1/2"
- Rabbeting 3/8"
- Dovetail 1/2" 14 (degree)
- V-Groove 3/8"
- Hinge Mortising 1/2"
- Panel Pilot 1/4"
- Round Nose 1/4"
MLCS 6077 is a wood working router kit. It is a 15-piece set, is a 1/4 inch shank, and is carbon tipped. Is has a wood storage box included so you can manoeuvre your bits about without worrying about damaging or losing them. It also includes one Allen wrench and one bearing.
Pros
- Comes with 3 year guarantee
- It includes a wood case
Cons
- It Only includes 15 pieces
Router bit types and sizes:
- Mortising 1/2''
- Combination Bevel 1/2''
- Groove x1
- Round Nose 3/8'', 1/2''
- Trimming 3/8''
- 1/4'' Panel Pilot
- Straight 1/4'', 3/8'', 1/2'' 3/4''
- Flush Trim 1/2''
- Radius Round Over 1/8'', 3/16'', 1/4'', 3/8''
- Cove 1/4'', 3/8''
- Chamfer 1/2''
- Roman Ogee 1/4''
- Slot Cutter 1/4''
- Rabbeting 1/2''
- Dovetail 1/2'', 14.25''
- Shanks Fit All Routers 1/4''
This is a Stalwart multi-purpose router bit set. At our lowest price, yet it has 24 pieces and is carbide tipped. It has a case to come with it and all the bits in the case have slots, are label, and have a diagram of the cut.
Pros
- Comes with a shank that fits all routers
- All the slots are labelled
Cons
I does not come with warranty
Buying guide
There are three, different materials that you can go for. The material you choose will influence how many times you sharpen your bit or even have to replace your bit. Therefor you should choose wisely. The materials are: High Speed Steel, Carbide Tipped, and Solid Carbide.
High Speed Steel bits are frequently the least expense of the three. However, there is a cost for going cheap. The High Speed Steel would manage soft woods and plastics but would find it harder with harder more dense materials. It also will dull much faster that the carbide ones, so you will spend a lot of your time sharpening them up.
The Carbide Tipped router bits go up in price compared to the High Speed Steel in the middle of the two. However, you do gain a lot from the extra money. The Carbon tip gives the bit more protection from dulling, therefore will last longer without sharpening and you would be able to tackle much harder materials and surfaces, making it worth your while.
The solid carbide is the most expensive option and are not meant for just anyone. The Solid Carbide router bits are immensely strong and long lasting. They are more meant for specific applications that have a very high level of detail, and where the other types of bits would not have as high performance. You may want to choose the solid carbide bits for work on mortising, laminate trimming, or pattern cutting.
Questions
How to change router bits?
First thing you have to do is remove the base of your router. That will reveal where the router bit is held in the router. Once you have do that you need to loosen the collet, which is where the router bit should be and simply remove the router bit from its position. Then you are free to get your other router part and place it in its place. Now this is important, you do not want to tighten the collet fully with the bit in the collet. For these reasons, one is that the collet pulls slightly down on bit resulting in that if the bit is pushed up right against the bottom of the collet it will have nowhere to go so the collet will not be able to securely hold in place the bit. Secondly, if you look closely at your bit you will see that at the top of the shaft where it meets the cutting head, there is a taper if that happens to be touching the collet it will grip onto it and could shake loose resulting in that the bit again will be unsecure and could result in an accident. Therefore, what I do is I place it in completely but before tightening lift is up about half to two quarter of an inch allowing there to be a bit of room but still keeping it securely in place. Finally, you are ready to tighten the bit into place, so you start with the bottom nut, then move onto the collet and lastly tighten the top nut. Then you are ready to get going!
How sharpen router bits?
Every router bit will need sharpening in its lifetime; even if you have a high quality, carbide cannot be expected to hold its edge forever. Therefore, this will tell you the easiest way of doing it.
Sharpening router bits are much easier than many people think. You do not need an expensive complex powerful piece of machinery. All you need is a couple of diamond paddles. You are only going to use the face of them so you do not need to know some fancy finger skills. It is reasonably important that you sharpen uniformly as you want to make sue the edge is balanced to get a clean smooth cut. You can do this by doing 5 to 10 strokes on one then moving on to the next edge, and carrying on this prose until you are satisfied with the sharpness. To do this process, lay the diamond paddle on the flat surface of the flute, and hold it lightly so you can make sure it stays flat, you can start. Preferably, you should do this on a workbench to stay safe.
Conclusion
Hopefully you have found what you are looking for or that you have grasped a better sense of the products that are out there. There are so many different options out there and this site aims to narrow that search down to a minimum, making your life a lot easier
If you have any other questions or worries please contact us, or if you have any comments or improvements please leave a comment at the bottom of the page