Hammers, saws, and levels are probably a few of the things that come to mind when thinking of the tools that are used in construction. However there are many more that are used daily that all serve a different purpose, and a times are used in creative facets. For example a sawzall is primarily used to cut straight through materials, but it can also be used to act as a large jig saw in a pinch. The point is that it's important to have the right tool for the right job. This is the primary reason there are so many different types of tools because every tool has a purpose.
When Phil gets to talking about the old days when he started building homes, he usually remarks that the only power tools he needed were a skill saw and a sawzall. As is the norm in life, things tend to become more complex, the same is true for building. If you took a look at most contractors tool box you would find, in addition to the previously mentioned tools, an impact driver, drills, clamps, volumes of sockets and adapters, compressors, nail guns, palm nailers, miles of extension cords, air hoses, grinders, big nasty burly beam saws, and the list goes on. It may seem a bit extreme, but all these and more are required if one wants to finish a project on time and within budget. This is why there aren't too many people still using hand saws and hand drills. The building industry is constantly evolving and striving for production and efficiency. This is due to the change in building codes, engineering, and architecture.
For the general public who might be curious about the tools of the trade enjoy browsing the library of tools that we use nearly everyday to bring concepts and dreams to fruition.
Coby with his trusty framing square and pencil in his mouth.
Known as a circular saw we only use Skilsaw brand circular saws. This is the second generation Skilsaw known as the Mag 77. It's a few pounds lighter than the original which equates to less fatigue throughout the day. However the original model is pretty much bullet proof, capable of withstanding falls off roofs and being dropped on concrete. There are scratches to prove this.
The Milwaukee Sawzall, they come in a few different sizes but all are worth their weight in gold. It's always a good day when one doesn't need to break one out, but when you need one it's nice to know that you have one ready to get the job done!
Stihl demo saw. Cuts though just about anything that isn't wood, concrete and steel are its bread and butter. It's a two stroke engine that runs on mixed gas that will buck and scream so you better hold on.
Stihl blower, Stihl makes some of the best gas powered tools as many people can agree with. The ease of start and power they provide is just comforting to the operator. The blower has pretty much replaced the broom and dustpan, but one can never fully retire those.
There have been many air compressors to come and go throughout the years, this one is just barely a year old. This model is neat because it is compartmental. The top half is the compressor itself and the bottom is a large air tank. The neat thing is that the compressor has a small air tank of its own and can operated independently. This is nice for large jobs because you can set up the compressor next to a power source and run a hose to the bottom air tank next to were you need it. Works great for jobs big and small.
On the left is 150 feet of air hose and on the right is 100 feet of power. Some people don't like the blue "garden hose" but I would argue that it holds more air and therefore puts less stress on the compressor extending its life and providing the user more air pressure.
Occidental full grain leather tool bags with an extra goodie bag in the middle. Occidental makes by far the best and longest lasting tool bags. These belong to Coby and were given as a bonus for running a job while Phil was on vacation.
Some of the important items found within most carpenters tool bags. Sharp chisel, torpedo level, 30 foot tape measure, knife, nail set, pencil, speed square, cat's paw, and a framing hammer. Now if you look inside a contractors truck you will find multiples of each, some broken, some old, and some that only get used on special occasion. The Whitakers like to name their hammers, this one is Ole Stubby. I know Chad has had a few and I believe his current one is named Champ.
