DIY Tips on Tools

Keep your framing nailer in top working condition and save time and money with a framing nailer rebuilding kit, which includes all the parts…

Pro-quality finish work is a lot easier with the right tools—and they don't have to be expensive. Check out a master carpenter's list of…

Serrated knives can be sharpened at home, but you'll need a special sharpening steel that matches the scallops of the knife. Here's how to do it…

Sharpen knives quickly and keep them that way with two simple, inexpensive tools, several easy-to-learn techniques and a little practice.…

Save money and back strain by renting a boom lift, trencher, power posthole digger, stump grinder brush cutter and other big tools that solve…

Circular saws are great for cutting plywood and 2x's, but you can also cut everything from logs to concrete to steel beams with the right blade…

Adapt your sawhorses to make workbenches, scaffolding supports, cutting surfaces, outfeed tables, paint racks and other useful helpers in your…

If you lost the chuck key after all these years, or just can't bear to throw away a good drill, keyless chucks are still available for most…

Confused about drill bits? So were we. So we tested high speed steel, black oxide, cobalt and titanium bits in wood and metal, and here's what…

Here are favorite tools of landscapers, electricians, tile setters, woodworkers and other pros that make their jobs faster, easier and better.

Bench grinder wheels need occasional TLC to do a good job of sharpening. Learn how to "dress" a wheel to keep it clean, which type to use for…

Make the worn edge of an aluminum shovel straight and square again in about 15 minutes. You only need a jigsaw and a file or belt sander.

Repair an old tarp or make a new tarp more useful with extra lashing points by installing new grommets. Also install them in various sizes on…

A sharp wood chisel can cut mortises, shave rough surfaces, chop out corners and scrape off glue. We'll demonstrate these techniques and show…

If you're planning a project that requires lots of postholes, a power auger will speed up the process. But if you think it'll make digging holes…

The best fix for a broken sledgehammer, ax or maul is a replacement fiberglass handle—an almost indestructible upgrade from the traditional wood…

Cordless batteries eventually fail, but replacement batteries can be quite expensive, especially for older models. To save money, look into…

A well-organized tool belt allows you to work faster and better and climb and work from ladders more safely. Here's how to organize it…

Not sure about your smoke alarm battery? Wondering about the mystery batteries in your kitchen drawer? Check them with a multitester to find out…

If you accidentally cut your extension cord or power tool cord, save it by adding a new plug and receptacle to the two pieces—a safer…