10 Must-Have Tools For Beginner Woodworkers

[@SteamGeezerUK]

As a woodworker/cabinet maker for the last 30 years or so, I think this is a great list. I'd like to add a few little extra bits of my own, if I may, in no particular order: 1. You can never have too many clamps. 2. Table saw - if you're buying a small table saw, get one that allows you to change the blade from the top. Might sound like a no brainer, but some small saws require the whole machine to be flipped over to change the blade which is a nuisance, believe me, especially if it is on a stand. 3. Cutting tools - buy decent cutting tools, whether they be saw blades, router bits, drill bits, whatever. Buying cheap ones is a false economy as they go blunt really fast and will either give crappy cuts or you'll have to change them more often. Same with glue - buy decent glue. It'll hold way better than cheap stuff. 4. The drill press - the floor standing ones are great, but keep in mind some manufacturers offer a bench top version of their floor standing drills. I have a big Record Power pillar drill that has a 3 foot post instead of 6 feet. This allowed me to make a heavy duty drawer unit on wheels so I have the height and power of the floor standing drill, but with storage for all the drill bits, sanding drums etc and, if I need to, I can move it easily. I have never needed to use the full height of the bed (who needs to drill through 3 feet?) so it works really well. 5. You can never have too many clamps. 6. Band saws - if you're buying floor standing shop tools, a band saw is very useful and should be considered in addition to the items in the video. 7. Routers - to reiterate what was said in the video, routers are incredibly flexible tools that will massively increase the scope of what you can do with your projects. They can be a bit scary, but as long as you stick to the recommended speeds, make shallow cuts and don't do anything silly, they're quite safe to use. 8. Shop vac - worth looking at if you're going to be using power tools. These machines can create a huge amount of dust and chips, and a shop vac will help alleviate that and make tidying up much easier. 9. Biscuit joinery - as well as pocket hole screws, you might want to look at biscuit joinery, especially for cabinet making. It removes the need for screws, nails etc and creates very strong, completely invisible joints. 10. You can never have too many clamps.

[@FireIceEarth]

Some great additions! I thought the list was great, but was surprised that dust extraction was only mentioned in passing, and bandsaws not mentioned at all!

[@JesusArellano]

i would add 1 more thing to your list!. CLAMPS!! that is All.

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

Well, I think Marc Spagnolo (the wood whisperer) has too many clamps. Watch one of his videos to understand my point. Also, what biscuit jointer do you recommend? I assume Ryobi is to be avoided...

[@cristianivancidguerra1005]

You always need 2 more clamps than what you have on hand 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@VaracolacidVesci]

I think you missed that we need clamps

[@Stoplurkinbro]

watching these kind of videos makes me realize how nice my high school woodshop was

[@jonathanlangston9687]

Being from the UK, I love how the US literally have tools for EVERYTHING to make the job easier. I was a plasterer by trade, and always remember working with an old joiner who still used a saw which he sharpened, hand planers, hand drills and chisels……the guy was a true artist and his work was millimetre perfect!

[@jeffreytackett3922]

Is there something wrong with having a tool for everything to make the job easier? You understand that time is worth something, too, right?

[@JeffreyMoon1974]

This is a great list, but I honestly would not consider some of these tools "beginner tools." My list would only include a circular saw, a jigsaw, a drill-driver combo, a random orbit sander, a shop vac, and F-clamps. My rationale is that power tools like the table saw and the router may come across as intimidating to a new woodworker. Plus, some of these suggestions are not cheap; a benchtop jointer, for example, is going to run you at least $300-$400, and even the low-end thickness planers are going to run you $400. Obviously, I'm not accounting for something you might be able to find on the secondhand market, but a novice is likely not going to know enough to make an informed purchase. The better approach, in my opinion, is to start simple, get comfortable making some basic projects, and then start buying tools as you find a need for them. Beyond this, I do compliment you on your explanation of these tools and their purpose.

[@Jolie12Fille]

Agreed

[@JeffreyMoon1974]

@ryan norris agreed, but then again that was my point.

[@sadisticrage2090]

@@JeffreyMoon1974 your list is practical. His list is NOT. No beginning shop list should contain tools over $1,000. I swear most of these "top 10 tools" videos are done just to show off their high priced tools, and to try and get more free things from sponsors.

[@dylan-nguyen]

@@JeffreyMoon1974 I think a table saw if ur making more than 3 projects is reaaally necessary at that point. I tried being cheap with a circ saw and everything took forever. And the weird placement made things get sketchy sometimes without a huge table/bending over constantly. Table saw once debunked and safely used felt way better for regular cuts.

[@JeffreyMoon1974]

@@dylan-nguyen I agree that there are things you can do with a table saw that are more difficult with a circular saw, and I LOVE my table saw. That said, as I stated, you should start buying tools as you find a need for them. The flip side to that is that you buy all these tools as John recommends and then they sit in your garage or basement collecting dust (and not sawdust) because you have no time or you lose interest. FWIW, when I started woodworking, I didn't have a table saw for about the first ten years or so. Do I wish I had bought one sooner? OF COURSE, but my time between projects didn't make it worth getting one and I managed most cuts with my circular saw or jigsaw (more the former than the latter). Once I found myself in the shop more, then it became an obvious purchase to step up my game.

[@jeffreymanuel6454]

As a novice I'm really interested by your pocket holes comment. Can you do a video showing when to use and not to and why?

[@ganjasmoke21]

Never!

[@kristophermcgurgan5324]

you can use pocket holes just about any were from table top to doing framing

[@xxdrewxx6]

There are many good uses for pocket holes, but typically should only be used with 3/4" or 1" thick material building like box work for cabinets or what have you.

[@TheAudioman15]

I am a convert. Pocket holes are great, you just have to do it right. Steve Ramsey has great videos on it

[@Tyndaal604]

Mainly for strengthening right angle joints with a diagonal brace, like that 📐, it’s usually seen in make shift table tops and framework for doors or gates

[@jimpoole6037]

Was a past homeowner woodworker, you are getting me back into it now that I am retired from my job! Thanks!

[@jakWiize]

I like how everything is "the most versatile tool in the shop" :D

[@everdin5713]

I love it lol

[@sfpawloski2]

I enjoy watching your videos they're informative and professional and I'm glad I have them in my history so I can always refer back to them you do a good job give yourself a big pat on the back and have a Merry Christmas

[@barrykery1175]

Of all the videos I have watched for getting started in woodworking, not one person suggests getting a radial arm saw. Over 35 years ago I had to make a decision.....table saw or radial arm saw. I figured I could do more with the radial arm saw. To this day I still feel I made the best choice for me. Does the miter saw stop professional woodworkers from getting a radial arm saw? I even make molding with my radial arm saw with the use of the modeling head. I now use my router more for making molding. So...."Why not a radial arm saw?" For years I only focused on using a 1/4" impact wrench for automotive work. Since the pandemic locks me into my cave, to break the boredom, I started watching more and more youtube videos. That's where I learned how much more I can do with the my little impact wrench. Now that I realized how useful it is for woodworking, I purchase a second one. One for the garage and one for the shop. Now I have to keep chasing after it. Great informative video. Barry

[@Tordaws]

As a total hobbyist, I really appreciate this! Thanks, really terrific, hope you keep going with it!

[@joehitchman748]

First time I have ever agreed 95% with someone about tools, and in the same order , good work,

[@John_Malecki]

Did we just become best friends ???

[@max7mus918]

Nobody: Absolutely nobody at all: John: VERSATILE 😂 Keep up the quality content!!

[@SpaceCaptainLord]

I think its awesome that you mention that brand doesn't matter. So many people feel like you have to have the most expensive and pretty tools to make stuff, but really you can use any brand!

[@mmwtcasmalltown]

Yes! But also that he mentioned to be mindful when it comes to Cordless because of interchangeable batteries and to pick one but stick to it! Like brand doesn't matter but once you buy a certain brand whatever it is...stick to it:)

[@dweidemann]

16:08 one of the quickest tool showdowns ever, thanks for that!

[@RedPigeon_]

I’m in carpentry class right now, inspired by you, but I will watch this once I’m done. Thank you for all you have shown and taught me!

[@nanoreaper5002]

Thanks for the great video, My girlfriend started watching these videos with me and now I have to remodel her closet... Sound advice I used a job site for years before I got a table.. still use the job site when i have too work out side the shop.

[@Lolo_Schmidt]

Thank you for this video. I’ve been woodworking for over 2 years now, and I’m officially obsessed! My husband remembers you from the Steelers. I have a lot of these tools we’ve bought over the last year, except a router. That’s my next purchase, and a planer. My dad was very much into woodworking and has a wood shop in his house. I drool over all of his equipment whenever I visit.

[@budlloyd3127]

I think this is actually the first "tools for beginners" video I've actually agreed with! thanks for another great video!

[@uhN0id]

Man, I love the way you film, speak, and explain. This was a great video for my limited woodshop to avoid wasting money but I can just binge your videos that aren't even relevant to me. You keep them incredibly entertaining and educational. Thank you!

[@matthewcromer3067]

18 volts = more power.. lol anyone else hear Tim "the tool man" Taylor!! Keep it up we love the channel...

[@greyjofilmfestival]

Thank you. This is incredibly helpful. I am a big DIYer but in the most archaic sense. The only saw I have is a 30 year old hand saw. The only power tool I have is a cordless drill. I have been wanting to buy a power saw for a while but feel overwhelmed when shopping. Thank you for telling me EXACTLY what to get. This is just what I needed. Now to go check out your other vids.

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

Bessey, as sponsor: "We will give you $10,000 for your show" Next day in the mail, 15 clamps are found on the front porch...

[@The_Draque]

I build fish tank stands mainly with 2x4's and 2x6's and i was so happy to finally justify getting a 12" Mitar saw. Cutting dozens of boards with circular saw and jigsaw gets really old really fast and the cuts werent always straight. Now i can cut boards quickly and they are more precise and the cut is always straight! Table saw is my next purchase, cutting large pieces of plywood for doors and stand skins is a PITA with my jigsaw

[@mcfudd007]

I got my first impact drill, grinder and circular saw the other day, so stoked!!! XD

[@Wopko]

Just bought my first set. As soon as I setup the circular and tried it for the first timw it dawned on me how powerful and scary it is. Have fun and be safe.

[@thewoodweldingfabricator9300]

You can cut anything with an angle grinder.

[@Wopko]

@@thewoodweldingfabricator9300 Arent those typically for tile and metal?

[@thewoodweldingfabricator9300]

@@Wopko typically. But I use mine, with a flapper disc, for gross material removal when I'm power carving.

[@Wopko]

@@thewoodweldingfabricator9300 Ok cool. Thx

[@versatileduplicity9313]

1. Router 2. Circular saw 3. Drill 4. Sander 5. Jig saw 6. Clamps 7. Measuring tape 8. Rafter square 9. Straight edge 10. Wood burner

[@supermangrant8]

I think we all need to know where you got that Ron Swanson picture. That should be a necessity in every woodworking shop

[@shaymorcormick8743]

Was setting up sheet metal shelters for animals. My friend's dad and I had to share an impact driver between us while his son had the regular drill. We were both done with our areas before he was even close to being finished. Was our first job using impacts and it won us over

[@sharkfan8]

And 11: enough space in the shop to have all these tools 😄

[@yvonnelane7479]

I did not plan to make use of this woodworking book, *TopFineWoodworking. Com* but instead curious about it. I had been truly amazed right after trying it. I was seeking to learn more about the art of woodworking, and was not disappointed. I found many topics such as wood types and designing your workshop.

[@levondanko628]

On most woodworking channels, the shop space is what usually wows me/makes me jealous first

[@scottmichael3745]

You ain't kidding!! My shop is half of a 2 car garage! And I have to share it with my wife's car. My truck wouldn't fit in the garage anyway.

[@ryansantiago941]

My 12” WEN planer was nearly half the price of the 12” DEWALT planer when I purchased it on Amazon, and I absolutely love it. I never knew how much I would use it and half to say it really is a good investment for even just a weekend diy’er.

[@jacobroot9186]

Ha! You post a video stating the dangers of a router, literally the day after I nearly lost a whole fingertip to mine. Luckily, it didn’t end up as bad as it could have (still blood all over my workpiece and shop), and I was right back to using it the next day to finish a job.

[@ravedge7042]

Just subscribed because of the picture of Nick Offerman in the background. Nothing better than a woodworker showing respect for another woodworker..... :)

[@jdirt1982]

I was blown away like a queef in a tornado, by the dewalt 12v performance .

[@iandanger883]

Absolutely disgusting... Thank you for making my random Saturday night two years later. I'm definitely about to get slapped by my wife, cheers!

[@sarahashley6899]

Best comment I’ve ever read 😂

[@jdirt1982]

Amen🎉

[@vintagejoehill]

100% agree with Malecki on the Router being lower on the list. I was terrified of it, which I knew that fear could lead to more mistakes on it rather than make me use it in a safe manner. So I didn't use one till I was about a year into learning woodworking. After that, it's become a staple in my tool use, but I made lots of things without one too. Malecki is bang on in this regard. Also the video is pretty great for beginners. So if you're new listen to his advice.

[@tariqbojic7632]

I would actually recommend getting a Jig Saw before a Skil Saw

[@chadbingham8069]

I guess it depends on what you're mostly working on, but I disagree.

[@evangrace192]

I guess it depends what you're mostly working on, but I agree

[@CeeJayThe13th]

Agree. A little safer and much more versatile. Unless you're cross cutting a bunch of like 2x4s from the jump. If that's the case, you'll probably throw the jigsaw right out the window and buy a circular saw, miter saw or even table saw.

[@jamesmclaughlin5922]

Nah most beginners aren’t cutting curves, I would say skill saw because it’s easier to cut straight and is easier to cut a 90 or 45 with a skill saw, especially if you use a square to use as a guide

[@CeeJayThe13th]

@@jamesmclaughlin5922 can't really disagree except that a jigsaw has a foot on it exactly like a circular saw which can be used with a speed square.

[@mikeschmidt4800]

You're all going to laugh, but, I use a Black and Decker Matrix tool which has 12 different heads that turn one tool into 12. Ive used it on site for almost a decade and i still havent had to replace anything other than a battery. The impact runs both rpm and bpm higher than the big brands. I keep all the heads in my bucket and switch from tool to tool all day long. Just to name a few, I use the impact, drill/driver, trim saw, reciprocating saw, and a jig saw. There are others, but, that's what I use and keep on hand. They all run off the same drill body and take seconds to switch between. I got it as a gift one year and was grateful, but, also skeptical. Turns out it does all of them well and I haven't had to replace any of it yet. 9/10 would highly recommend.

[@damianford]

7:45 Great shoutout to @3x3Custom - Tamar you're both 2 of my fav follows on the youtubes

[@Stallion23]

I instantly went to check out some of her videos and subscribed.

[@builditwithbutter]

I just went to woodcraft for the fist time. I asked them to cut a board in half for me. The guy was in the back like 10 minutes. All the other co workers were busting his chops. They told me with he must be cutting it by hand and one guy told me he was chasing down the neighborhood beaver. They have such a great selection of tools. I walked out with some exotic hardwoods. What a great place it's literally Disney land for wood workers.

[@alloavtheplace]

Thank you so much for creating this list of tools. I find this extremely helpful. I'm at the beginning stages of woodworking and your expertise takes the guesswork out of the equation. Creating this list of tools and adding it to my iPhone for future purchases. Thanks again!! You are slaying the game and educating me with each video.

[@silvinodino]

Nice Video. Added everything to a cart on Home Depot and its around $2500. I went with mostly ridgid branded items. Just some info for anyone that wants a quick quote

[@jayeckhart1561]

Great video John, good info. The I-Beam clam is not a new innovation. I have two of them in my shop that I got from my Uncle, that are over 50 years old, they were made by Jorgenson which I think that Bessy bought out a few years ago. They are really great for heavy duty clamping and are heavy as hell.

[@gotoforwoodworkers672]

I like the way he goes through the presentation.

[@Osiris_24]

Hey John! Loving the content as always! As an aspiring woodworker, I would love to see a video dedicated to re-sawing and breaking down raw lumber efficiently/correctly. Much love from a fellow Sam in New Zealand!

[@PeansINbetweens]

Haha a fellow kiwi in the comments

[@joelrobinson5291]

Haha another fellow Kiwi in the comments

[@bubbasgarage3586]

LOVE your thoughts on pocket holes!!! i hate them for the same reasons as you. IF you want to build furniture, learn how to cut better joints.

[@maxortega8073]

me: can't even afford a router John: we have routers designated to different bits for convenience so we don't have to change them

[@philhardy8010]

Try amazon katsu router supper cheep

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

I'd try to find an old Porter Cable. They were/are the best ones on the market (unless their quality has gone down a ton) and so there should be tons on the used market. It really depends on what you will use it for. Any cheap one can do edge banding trimming, but you'll need a BIG one for raised door panels and the like.

[@ironwood1621]

I bought a new car cause the ashtrays were dirty, John.

[@maxortega8073]

@@woodworkerroyer8497 cool im not doing much with it I was thinking of just getting a dewalt at home depot but I really need a job most places don't employe 14 yo

[@661EASTON89]

Reminds me of fishing as well. I love fishing and only use 2 different poles then when I watch KZbin fisherman they take like 7 different poles to the lake just so don't have to keep changing lures lol

[@Lorddanielrushton371]

Thank you John, its nice to get a pro's view on what tools to by first. And no I'm not being a smart aleck, i do consider you a professional wood worker.

[@logangill1022]

Hey thanks for the vid it really helped me

[@james7thompson829]

GOD Bless You My Brother! Thanks For The Lesson “Teacher”, Truly My Friend. ONE LOVE!

[@denisekost1880]

Thanks so much! Love all your videos. Yep, I'm a beginner and have been doing wood/epoxy projects with the most basic tools. I'm wanting to expand on my tools and this helps a bunch!!

[@blahdiblah2169]

I agree with everything you said. I made the fatal mistake of skipping the table saw. Now I have everything else but this, and I'm hitting limitations.

[@rbfokc3470]

Love you too bro! Thanks for the killer videos!

[@gmanchurch]

Your beginner tool list is totally unreasonable for the average diy weekend wood worker. The list you have would be great for someone who is beginning wood working business.

[@tannerrienbolt3143]

We don't talk about trim carpenters on this channel....

[@John_Malecki]

Please don’t fire them up. They’re so mean... and talented ... and good looking .... and smart........ dammit I should’ve been a trim carpenter

[@DirtyDanhole]

@@John_Malecki Hey now, im a nice one :)

[@vikassm]

Whoa!!! Beginners these days! 🤣🤣 I started with the following: 1. Cheap hacksaw and ONE blade. 2. Piece of string and a couple of nails to mark straight lines (like a horizontal plumb level) 3. Couple of sheets of sandpaper for finishing. 4. Nails. Lots of nails. And thats it. Cut with hacksaw, clean with sandpaper, join with nails. Rinse, wash, repeat. The first power tool I used was a HUGE hand-held power drill. I think it was made in the 70s, had an internal short and a metal body, always tingled my limbs senseless while using it. Not to mention the workout it used to give my arms. Drilling upside down? Forget it!! It is amazing how these constraints made me learn the job way better back then. Having a gazillion tools at my disposal nowadays mostly causes decision fatigue, if you know what I mean. A hundred power tools means I'm always tripping, and not in a good way. Lots of cordless tools, lots of incompatible batteries, need to keep them all charged, freaking chargers keep failing too!! I'm not saying hand tools are better than power tools. At the end of the day, all tools have their place and all users choose whatever tools they need/want for their purpose. If the tool manufacturers can finally agree on a universal format for connecting batteries, now THAT, would really be a step up from corded tools.

[@dylan-nguyen]

Yeah just came from a video for ‘beginner cutting board’ needs table saw, miter saw, planer, jointer?? Like what $2,000+ lol

[@LeglessWonder]

Take a shot every time he says “the most versatile tool”

[@Unkn0wnUs3risTaken]

I’m drunk and I just clicked skip ad 🤣

[@Eng586]

My phone would run out of space

[@roaratmonkeys]

This is the video I needed all this time. Just getting started with woodworking.

[@maxortega8073]

Hey im building a desk and im struggling a little on the design is there any way I could contact you?

[@BespokeCarpentry]

I do finish cuts with my miter saw, I use a 100 tooth blade, and I've also taken sand paper and put it on either side of the blade so it sands the cut smooth. Works amazing. Doesn't make the kerf any wider either.

[@norcaltodd1421]

Great video John! I'm new to woodworking so this was very helpful for me , I also really liked your last video on the bar stolls would love to see more smaller projects like that. keep up the great work!

[@ricardohernandez8293]

Bless me uncle John Malecki.

[@simplysimon1918]

You and quarantine are the reason I'm considering a career change mid pandemic. I hate you and love you at the same time. My bank account despises you LOL

[@raul0ca]

You might already have a lot of this stuff. Probably circular saw, cordless drill, miter saw, router

[@simplysimon1918]

@@raul0ca actually not much other than hammers and hand tools minus a drill. I’ve bought everything in my adult years. Dad wasn’t generally a power tool or DIY person

[@raul0ca]

@@simplysimon1918 Dude it's gonna get expensive but you'll get a lot of cool stuff. Scott Brown Carpentry has a rundown of what he uses when working on houses which is different from this woodshop stuff Also invest in PPE first! Eye protection,, good lighting for your work station and hearing protection and clamps to keep your work secure. Think about all the ways the power tool can hurt you and avoid those things.

[@oliverdelica2289]

I agree with John's view on pocket hole joinery 👍👍👍

[@brewtalityk]

love the Black Rifle Coffee Co banner. thumbs up for that alone

[@ScrewsAndTools]

Hello sir, thank you so much for such an interesting video. I can add the following information based on my personal experience. I still don't have most of the tools that you have shown, but I have a great desire to make, restore and create. I believe that the main thing that a beginner needs is a desire, the rest is all a technical process. And if you want to, you can improvise, it is very important, even if it is a primitive method. Good luck, success and health to all. Best regards.

[@Pu7Vk3rz]

Ron Swanson in the background made this video for me... lol

[@felipedieguez2076]

i was looking for this

[@janmcmanus8097]

Impact driver. Life changer. Well - in the workshop

[@allisenl4300]

When you realise you have more of the second part of the list before you have more of the first ... 😂

[@carbonfusion]

yah, im right there with ya Allisen.

[@yourhairlineisgone]

My list includes Clamps Chisel set Planer Sand paper Square Marking gauge Japanese saw Mallet Don't need much more than that. When I started my tools didn't even cost $150 and that included some wood

[@yo_itsjoshy]

It’s not 1970 anymore

[@tomasjosefvela1]

11:18 I was so ready for your sponsor to be....TREES! thank you nature for giving us trees to cut down and make really cool shit out of...TREE! (you can use that if you want, no charge ;)

[@mickeypigduck2307]

The biggest problem as a beginner is justifying tool cost for something you might end up not liking to do. But the other side of that is cheap tools lack the accuracy that more expensive tools have and crappy results is not a confidence builder. It was when I finally decided to spend the money on good stuff did I realize I'm pretty good at this. Wouldn't call myself a journeyman but I've made some nice stuff. Good luck to all you newbies out there.

[@SuperBigsal]

You should add a shirt, “let us spray!” With a spray gun below the saying. Just sayin!

[@ishapeitsok]

yes! like with the siloute of a preacher holding a spray gun and something silly like a hazmat book

[@CeeJayThe13th]

*just spraying

[@bachpregil5902]

Sir, thank you! Love from the Philippines

[@jacobmarvel3474]

I'm a little confused on why a good sander isn't on here

[@De_neven]

Yeah true

[@christianblanchard783]

Shoulda replaced the table saw. Got no use for it if you have a circular saw. Might be a little more difficult but this is a beginner tool set we’re talkin here. I started with a hand saw then I just switched to a circular saw. Someday I’ll have a table saw 😂

[@markfitzurka9995]

I love my M12 Milwaukee cordless tools and anything it won’t handle I plug in. Is cost So much to replace the 18v batteries I started with a 7 pice dewalt kit and loved it until I had to start replacing batteries. Then a 5 pice of the Milwaukee 18v that I was lucky to get a year of life out of them. my m12 I have gotten 6 years + out of batteries so far they are also lighter and less bulky. You can get the bigger battery for the m12 system and also so many different tools like tubing cutter, air inflater and solder iron. We get super hot summers where I live so that is why my battery’s crap out so fast. Since I made the switch to the smaller M12 system I have not regretted it. Love the show just don’t agree with more power for cordless is better. Keep up the good content.

[@diggeronenineone7254]

Routers are scary, I think I still have one circling the earth in a low orbit.

[@carbonfusion]

LOL!

[@RobDucharme]

I have a pretty basic Craftsman table saw. I have a 10" Makita mitre saw. The table saw will do what I need for now (will need to build a pullout table) but when the garage gets built this month, I have my heart set on a Makita compound mitre almost exactly like yours. I like the way they made it more compact that way without compromising performance. I think the one I'm looking at has a 15" cut length..

[@williamwinder3466]

The most important tools you'll ever have, are your noodle and your grabbers.

[@stonee1968]

Gotta be one of the best 10 tools for beginners out there. Really appreciate your honesty and explaining the reasons for them on the list and their location.

[@rafiutaoheed6516]

Omg I just found ten different definitions of the word 'versatile' in the dictionary

[@Greg1096]

I got started with a lathe and a craigslist bandsaw, and it was a few years before i moved to some of the more traditional woodworking projects. Have sold a ton of bowls and pens on etsy over the years, just in the last year or so have i started on the more traditional projects like cutting boards and boxes. Bought a tablesaw first when i started working on more square projects and i do not recommend secondhand, first one i bought didnt come with the riving knife and scared the hell out of me by shooting a block of cherry right past my face and into the drywall on the opposite side of my garage, some things are ok to buy used but at least know what safety features it should have before buying. I'm still terrified of tablesaws after that 😂

[@TheOneCleanHippy]

Still shouldn't have covered up those hardwood floors though.

[@John_Malecki]

I didn’t cover up any hardwood tho. They were softwood....

[@lukewhite9237]

Little advice from my dad, whose been a carpenter for nearly 40 years. A good saw blade makes the saw. His mitre blades are ten years old. Good brand, well looked after, cuts like butter

[@aaronknupp]

And, the 11th tool for any good woodworker: a cast iron-grated grill for the purpose of proper meat-sweats! Amirite?!

[@gregghernandez2714]

Really great list, however one tool that I personally highly recommend as a top 10 tool is a doweling jig. Get a really good accurate one too. One of the best on the market in my humble opinion is the Dowelmax. Once you understand the concept of how it works based on two points of reference on each piece to be joined, the joints are not only hidden, but extremely strong. Tests have been down between the Dowelmax system and the Festool Domino, and yes the Festool is fast and extremely accurate, but the Dowelmax joint is actually stronger. Really a great tool.

[@bondoman16]

You have a video calling the lunchbox planar a must have, and a video calling the lunchbox planar an item to avoid for beginners lol. How are we going to take your advice then? :)

[@karl_alan]

Thanks John. As someone who has been woodworking about 10 years, I completely agree with most everything you said, and really agree with your thoughts on wanting to know you can work with a dangerous tool before upgrading to it (i.e. the router in your case). I have never had a circular saw, track saw, miter saw or pocket hole jig, but outside of the latter one, I have definitely found situations where they would have come in handy. Thanks again for this content. It's really great!

[@jimbokraut640]

Hi, since you didn't have any saws (as such), may I ask how did you manage cutting wood? I am facing a similar conundrum!

[@karl_alan]

@@jimbokraut640 I have a few saws: table saw, band saw (which replaced the jig saw I had when I first started), and other than that, I do most everything with Japanese hand saws.

[@loopinnerthe]

So far, I have two clamps and a cordless electric drill/screwdriver out of this list and I have absolutely no idea how I managed without them. Thank you so much for going through this for us.

[@MrJayyangie]

Thanks for sharing. You mentioned dust collection as super important but no dust collecting tools on your list.

[@pamelah6431]

They're probably more of an accessory than a tool. Tools build things. Accessories help the tools. :)

[@mmcollins3]

Good list and explanations on why each tool made your list. Not that I disagree with your list (I don’t) and since I came from a strong hand tool only background, the jointer and miter saw where the last to be purchased. They just made things more convenient, in my opinion. Instead, I got a good bandsaw and a descent dust collector before those two item. Clamps are an ongoing thing with me; I’ll buy what I need when I need it and don’t already have it.

[@mmwtcasmalltown]

Our miter saw is so inconvenient to use ugh I'm a much bigger fan of our jigsaw:)

[@EnSabac]

I love your videos as I am a starting Wood worker. I'm glad you keep is simple and straight to the point. Keep it up.

[@judas587]

This video was really useful I can finally start woodworking

[@davidndahura7437]

Your list is for an experienced woodworker , beginner would be basic and option for every department, and below 1000 dollar package, forestance a combo drill is option for drill press, a circular saw is option for a table saw, a jackplane is option for a jointer etc , add on a random orbital sander, jigsaw and vaccume cleaner then you have beginner package those tools can raise industrial machinery. Well I thank you for your video.

[@1990kurder]

First time watching John Malecki videos, but anyone staring the video by saying they love me, you bet I will smash the like button and leave a nice comment!

[@somedude1841]

Ryobi had a nice set for 200 bucks. Both drills circular saw, sawzall the vibrating thingy saw a a flash light with two battery’s. I’m a painter and don’t use em that much so does the job for me

[@versatileduplicity9313]

Tools to later get: plunge + fixed base router Belt sander (wen brand) Table saw Mitre saw Huge clamps Nail gun Chisel

[@Nuka0420]

I am a novice looking to go to school for carpentry. I have fallen in love with woodworking in 6th grade middle school and want to start my own business. However, I want to only use hand tools. No power tools at all. Traditional techniques and alike

[@andrewr2650]

Great video, I realize it’s intended to be woodworking specific. But the one change I would probably make is to put the miter saw in the “top 5” it’s probably not top 5 specifically for finish carpentry. but because like the drill set, it’s usefulness will extend far beyond fine carpentry projects

[@smiskowiak]

In my personal opinion. 2 tools will get you started aside from your measuring and gluing items. A reversable drill, and a jigsaw. One cuts things apart, the other makes holes and can put things together. Master basic cutting and putting together first. Then begin learning to make things nicer. You can make a simple garden box with a drill and a jigsaw. And they will sell.

[@andrewhouse6300]

Being only 2:45 into this video I just want to chime in. The Milwaukee fuel m12 impact and drill driving is a great option. I do construction and use this set everyday. I’m not going to say they are as powerful as an 18v because that is just simple not true. But the impact will sink a 6” timber lock into an lvl easily and the drill driving will get you into concrete. Can find them on some pretty good sales too. Just throwing in my knowledge, hope it helps someone!

[@joedelusso1415]

Probably the best to do is start small and work your way up to the bigger stuff,been a wood worker off and on for the past two decades and been out of the hobby or the profession for a few years now other than a occasional project here and there.I already have quite few of the main tools like both the miter an circular saws,drills and etc but want to add a router and a drill press plus a pocket hole jig too, I plan on going a little deeper into woodworking,as I'm considering building a work bench and then a miter saw station eventually.I have some background in wood working but the two beginners videos were still helpful to figure out what the next tool to add to my growing arsenal,thanks..👍

[@doseofreality100]

Granted it wasn't a direct entry on the list, but you mentioned it with Circ saws. You said if you want to go bigger or better get a track saw. I would say - no. If you have a circular saw already and want to "go bigger" or better.... just jump to #4 on the list and get a table saw. It does what a track saw does.... and then some..... a lot of "some."

[@lcras21]

So excited to know that almos all the tools in the list are probably the most versatile tool in the shop!