Tools can be difficult to navigate if you aren't familiar with power tools in general but also if you are just starting out.
What do I need is something I get asked a lot!
So here, I am going to list the top 5 tools that I use plus my next purchase.
You by no means NEED any of these. It just makes it a little easier and faster.
Also, shop second hand stores, ebay, marketplace, yard sales, and other places to find great, inexpensive tools.
So lets go!
Number 1! This ancient artifact is a Tradesman Compound Miter Saw. The reason you probably have never heard of it is because they went out of business a loooooooonnnnnggggg time ago. I've heard they were manufactured by the same company that makes Hitachi but I'm not entirely sure. This saw is similar to Craftsman and the fact that is has lasted over 20 years tells you it was made well. It was a hand-me-down from my dad and it works well for the most part!
Number 2! This will be my next purchase when I'm ready for another saw. The Tradesman works well but I'd like a saw that slides which will make it easier to cut wider pieces of material. I love any Ryobi that I have owned or tried and I'll continue purchasing these tools for the foreseeable future.
Number 3! My Ryobi Impact Drill. I use this thing alllllll the time! It's well made, the battery seems to last, and you really can't beat the price!
Number 4! My Zircon Stud Finder. There are a ton of stud finders out there on the market and I'll tell you, most of them work just fine. There are even some super low tech ones that just become a magnet for the nails in the wall. They work just fine!!!! I just like this one because it also detects wires in the wall.
Number 5! My Craftsman nail gun. Now..I do love this nail gun. Its BEEFY! And I'll tell you, it makes all the woodworking jobs I do go so much faster!!! And it has a tool-free jam release that is super nice. BUT, next time, I'll probably try to find something a little smaller/lighter. It can get pretty heavy especially when you are doing a lot of upper trim/crown work.
And Number 6! My Black & Decker mouse sander. It has gotten me through a lot of projects! I use it frequently! I will say, the dust catcher doesn't work that well. However, for the price, it does the job and it keeps me from having to sand by hand!
Hope you guys found this helpful!