Falling into the less-than-$100 category, this drill has a transmission assembly that is mostly plastic, but metal is used for selected components. The battery takes three hours to charge, while most cordless drill batteries charge in only one. Double-sleeve chucks can be difficult to tighten, but the chucks on this model are large enough to get your hands around. However, the chucks slipped while boring into both hardwood and softwood samples. Finally, the Quick Connect bit system created problems with runout. (Note that Black & Decker has replaced this 14.4v drill-driver with model no. FS1402D, with promised upgrades.)
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Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer
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.
The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.
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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