DeWalt drills always have been a favorite of mine, and the company has made some improvements to its line. The new 18v model has three speed ranges, with a top speed of 2,000 rpm in third gear, a dramatic improvement when drilling small holes in wood. This tool stands up well, literally – the batttery pack has a large, flat bottom, so the drill doesn’t fall over easily.
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Craftsman Random Orbit Sander
While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.
This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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