What Tools Should I Add Next?

M

_Muad'dib_

Joined
Apr 23, 2011
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As of now I'm using a Nicholson 10 inch file, sandpaper and a good vise. I also have a hand drill. If I was to spend another $300 or so what should I add to my inventory? Any suggestions would be very appreciated. If you could name brands etc I would really appreciate it.
 
The number one power tool would be a drill press. Other than that, more files! I like having fla and half round of each size/cut and also chainsaw files. There was a thead here a couple days ago about a bench top drill press.


-Xander
 
+1 on the drill press. I don't think you could add a more absolutely necessary tool to your shop for under $300.

Alternately, (or maybe even in addition to) I'd get a portaband (I like the DeWalt) and make a bench stand for it. It sure beats a hacksaw, or angle grinder for cutting metals. It will cut your handle material for you, too.

If you got a 4x6 metal cutting bandsaw from harbor freight on sale for $200 (it happens fairly often) and spend $100-$150 on a drill press, you'd be set up nicely.
 
I agree, a good drill press would have helped me a lot when I got started, even now I am still looking for a better drill press, the little 8" bench press I got works, but a real stand up drill press with lower speed options than I have would be 100X better than what I have.
 
Drill press and what has proved to be one of the handiest tools in my shop:
P5190084-1.JPG


http://www.swagoffroad.com/Porta_band_Product.html

ps You can forge small 10 series carbon steel blades with a torch. The ryobi drill press will work initially and the bandsaw will save you lots of file time because you can cut very close to your scribe line.
 
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I would personally go for a cheap drill press and a little forge. the forge gives you the freedom to heat treat some of your own metal while getting into forging, while the drill press will be very helpful, as the above people have said.
 
Definitely +1 on the drill press. If you cruise around on craigslist you should be able to pick up a 12 inch for less than $100

If I had $300 for tools right now... since I already have a press. I would get a portaband setup like BMK has. Will definitely beat the hell out of rough profiling with drillbits and a hacksaw
 
if you have $300 to spend. buy the sears 2x42 belt sander, a bench top drill press, and an assortment of belts.
 
Thanks guys, lots of similar advice. I admit, I don't know why the drill press is so crucial. Perhaps because I can use it to drill around a profile? Or would the main advantage be making sure my handles are always straight and easier to assemble? Sorry if this is a dumb question. I really am in the dark about so much in the field of work/art.
 
both of the above plus you can get sanding drums and use them in cleaning up finger grooves,get mandrel mounted small buffing wheels for buffing handles,and drill straight holes.
Stan
 
Drill press is critical for having straight holes. And you will destroy your bits a lot faster with a cordless/hand drill because you can't keep it perfectly straight with even pressure while you are drilling. And yes to what you said about the handles. You would probably curse for hours if you found your hardened blades' holes don't like up properly because your holes were drilled crooked, or even the handle materials holes were crooked.

It will just save a headache, and save you money in the long run. And a drill press is definitely faster and more precise by a long shot. Also, you can get a decent drill press for a lot less money than most cordless drills...
 
Alright, it wouldn't have been the first thing I would have thought to get but I'll trust those in the know. I'll be looking for a drill press and some files soon. Maybe a Sears grinder if I can swing it. Thanks everyone.
 
jll346 said:
if you have $300 to spend. buy the sears 2x42 belt sander, a bench top drill press, and an assortment of belts.
Click to expand...

That's what I was going to say, you will get a lot done with your grinder and drill press.
 
_Muad'dib_ said:
Alright, it wouldn't have been the first thing I would have thought to get but I'll trust those in the know. I'll be looking for a drill press and some files soon. Maybe a Sears grinder if I can swing it. Thanks everyone.
Click to expand...

Well beyond just drilling straight holes in the tang/scales, it will make your bits last longer, great for sanding drums, mkaes a good light duty press, put your leather needles in it for making stitch holes for your sheaths, and there are many more things you will find a Use for, not just knives.

Don't buy a harbor freight one though, too much spindle play. To check this, lower the spindle all the way down and grab it, try to move it side to side and all directions, should be no discernable movment. Deffinetly should not be a "thunk" or any noise either.


-Xander
 
jll346 said:
if you have $300 to spend. buy the sears 2x42 belt sander, a bench top drill press, and an assortment of belts.
Click to expand...

Absolutely :thumbup:

If I could only have one power tool it would be a drill press, no question.
 
unky_gumbi said:
... but a real stand up drill press with lower speed options than I have would be 100X better than what I have.
Click to expand...

Yes, yes it is. I just finished assembling my 15", floor mount drill press this weekend. Also got an X/Y drill press vise and I mean to tell you what....drilling holes in tangs has become a dream compared to the old method on the 8" drill press. The crank for the table, the little light...even the gimicky laser thing is so nice. Plus the power....nothing stalls. I'm so much happier with the nicer drill press.
 
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