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…

The Editor-in-Chief of The Family Handyman shares tips from the many pros he's worked with and from his own years of woodworking and home…

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.…

Smart phones are the new essential tool for home repair and improvement. Learn about must-have apps for DIYers that save money and produce…

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.

Modern router bits with carbide cutters and guide bearings make forming wood edges almost foolproof. But there are a few tips and tricks that'll…

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

Learn to use a trim gun and you'll never want to pound another finish nail. A trim nailer will give you superior results with less effort

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