Now we all know outfitting the workshop can get expensive, if you're like me and need to have all the tools to do the job right, a small fortune in your wrkshop will amass in short order.
Here are some tips to help you decide what to buy and how to buy it:
In Canada, we have Canadian Tire, a general hardware, housewares, and automotive arts retail outlet. Their Mastercraft line of tools are very dependable, and each month, there's always something on sale. Buy your expensive tool purchases on sale, if you can. For example, I bought the Mastercraft 12" drill press, variable seed, etc. normally it's $200.00, but on sale I got it for $145.00. That $55.00 went to other tools.
Don't be afraid of package deals. Black and Decker usually package some of their most common powertools in a very affordable package. Sometimes, you may have one of the tools in the package, but if you're like me, you can never have too many cordless drills.
Most times, the lowest price isn't the best deal. If you're buying screwdrivers, why not go with the cheap ones, but when it comes to any powertools, go with a recognized name. Don't buy the cheap one if you dn't know the company manufacturing it. Chances are, it's cheaper because it's inferior quality.
Buy what you need. Chances are most peole don't need a drillpress or a lathe. If you're going to use it only once, you may want to find smeone who has the tool, and get them to do that part for you. As a last resort, try the yellow pages for a machine shop. Most times you'll find someone to drill out those 4" holes for you for $20.00. Money well spent if that's the only time you'll need the service.
The most important piece of equipment in your workshop are your safety glasses. You'll be wearing these a lot, so make sure they are comfortable. I cannot stress this point enough. This is one thing that you should never be without.
Remember, you're setting up your shop for you, not for the community. Put in there what you need or want. We all have our ideas of the essential tools, but in the end, only you know what you need.
Shop around. When you find what you want, negotiate. Retail is the sucker price. Don't be a sucker. Even $10.00 off a $200.00 item is better than nothing.
Remember, these tools will get you through more than just case modding. If you buy quality tools and take care of them, you'll have them a really long time. For all those youngsters out there: One day you'll probably be a home owner, like myself, and every home owner knows that homes require maintenance and upkeep. Your tools can help you with that too.
All of these points are meant to help you choose the right tools for you. Some points may not apply to your situation, but you'll find there are some that will help. In the end, the most important part is to buy the tools that suit your needs.
