Neat as a nail.
Sharp as a tack.
These are everyday figures of speech which we use to describe just how precise a person is or how effortless a job has been done.
These basic carpentry tools would also apply nicely to the field of finish carpentry because this job requires a bit of skilled craftsmanship.
In truth, finish carpentry is precise but it is not effortless.
It takes years of hard work and practice to achieve near-perfection in the skill.
Part of the effort is learning to master the tools of the trade, starting out with your most basic carpentry tools.
1.
Hammer The hammer is one of the handiest tools to have around.
When you think of hammers, nails automatically come to mind.
If you're going to do a lot of hammering and nailing, be sure to protect your eyes with safety glasses.
Hammers come in different weights and sizes.
In finish carpentry, a big-sized hammer is not advisable and a smaller one will do.
We recommend a 16-ounce hammer for all-around finishing or a small finish hammer for the delicate job of trimming and paneling.
2.
Carpenter and speed square The square is one of the basic carpentry tools used for measuring or checking how big and flat a surface is.
It is also used for making patterns over a wooden surface.
Carpenter squares are L-shaped and bigger, while speed squares are triangular and smaller.
Both tools are very versatile in their usage, particularly in making cross-cuts.
3.
Tape measure The ideal tape measure is one which is inexpensive, flexible, and with a roll-back feature.
After all, a retractable one is more compact.
Accuracy is the key in using any tape measure.
Tape measures may come in different types and styles, but they are only as reliable as how well you read them.
Preferably, buy one which is 25 feet long and, if possible, also expressed in the metric system.
If you have trouble with portions and fractions, choose one with smaller increments.
Don't forget to have a carpenter's pencil to mark along with your tapes and squares.
4.
End cutter A 7" end cutter would be a good-sized one.
It is small enough to fit into a tool belt yet big enough to be durable during tough jobs.
The end cutter is important because of the multiple uses it can perform.
Otherwise, a sharp razor-end utility knife can handle the cutting and trimming of materials like wood edge and twine.
5.
Tool belt Consider the tool belt as the jack-of-all-trades in carpentry work.
All in one, you can have pockets and holders for an assortment of carpentry tools.
In one handy piece, you have everything within reach.
The tool belt is also a big time-saver.
Carrying it with you is so much better than lugging all your tools around.
All you have to do is grab your tool belt when there's work to be done.
Organized and prepared as you are, it reflects on your work attitude.
With your arsenal of basic carpentry tools, you will be quick and flexible in your response to different kinds of projects which need your attention.
But without the simplest and most basic carpentry tools, nothing would look as neat or as sharp as you intended it to be.