Hand and power tool recommendations, drill bit types, and saw blade selection. Perfect for building a complete DIY toolkit.
Hand Tools
Power Tools
Twist Bits
General purpose, wood, plastic, light metal
Brad Point Bits
Precise holes in wood, centered point
Spade Bits
Large holes in wood, rough finish
Forstner Bits
Flat-bottom holes, clean finish
Hole Saws
Large diameter holes, door hardware
Masonry Bits
Concrete, brick, tile (carbide tip)
Auger Bits
Deep holes in wood, self-feeding
| Blade Type | Teeth | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rip Cut | 24-30 | Cutting with the grain |
| Crosscut | 60-80 | Cutting across grain, smooth finish |
| Combination | 40-50 | General purpose |
| Plywood | 60-80 | Sheet goods, no tearout |
| Dado | Varies | Grooves and rabbets |
40-60 Grit (Coarse): Heavy material removal, rough shaping
80-100 Grit (Medium): Smoothing rough surfaces, prep for finer grits
120-150 Grit (Fine): Final sanding before finish, general smoothing
180-220 Grit (Very Fine): Between coats, final finish preparation
320-400 Grit (Extra Fine): Smoothing finish coats, wet sanding
600+ Grit (Ultra Fine): Polishing finishes
Power Tools
Hand Tools
Blades & Bits
This essential tools guide provides comprehensive reference information for building and maintaining a capable tool collection for DIY projects and home improvement. From basic hand tools that every homeowner needs to power tools that expand your capabilities, this cheat sheet covers what you need and how to use it properly.
Understanding which tools to buy first, how to select the right drill bit or saw blade, and how to maintain your tools ensures you can tackle projects efficiently and safely. This reference covers tool kit essentials for beginners, specialized bit and blade selection, sandpaper grit progression, and maintenance practices that extend tool life and maintain accuracy.
Quality tools, properly maintained, can last a lifetime. Conversely, dull blades and worn tools make work harder and more dangerous. This guide helps you select the right tools for your needs, choose appropriate accessories for each task, and keep everything in safe working condition.
Having quick access to tool specifications and maintenance guidelines helps ensure you have the right tool for each job and that your tools remain safe and effective to use.