Replies

1. 
   weymouth2 | Oct 21, 2020 07:55am | #1

   That's a nice gesture. If he's a highly skilled cabinet maker about to retire, his methods and preferences are set and he likely has all the core tools that he needs. So, he's tough to shop for.

   I don't generally like to give gift certificates, but that's one route you could take. I'd go here (great tool making company in Maine):

   https://www.lie-nielsen.com/

   If you don't want to go the gift card route, you could get him some smaller stuff he might not ordinarily buy for himself. I'm thinking a hammer or mallet or slicing gauge or some such. Here's where I'm getting that:

   https://www.lie-nielsen.com/nodes/4225/toms-toolbox

   Note that there are lots of folks here with much more experience than I, so I'm curious to see what other feedback you get. I am thinking about retirement though, so in that sense I'm "qualified". I'd love to get a Lie Nielsen gift card or mallet/screwdriver/rasp/…

   Note also that a lot of their products are out of stock, and there is likely to be some lead time. So, that might influence your choices. They have helpful customer service, so if you call I'm sure they could give you some ideas and guidance.

   Neal

2. 
   john_c2 | Oct 21, 2020 07:57am | #2

   It's really hard to say, without knowing what he has, or needs.

   Check out Lie Nielsen tools, all made in the US. And Blue Spruce Tools, also US made.

3. 
   patrickmh79 | Oct 21, 2020 09:49am | #3

   Thank you. He does custom cabinetry on the side, but definitely not an amateur. We are pipeline guys and like quality tools.

4. 
   mwalsh3 | Oct 21, 2020 10:42am | #4

   as mentioned, Lie Nielsen and Blue Spruce both make a variety of very nice products. You might also look at Vesper Tools specifically for layout items - they're pricy but very well made. Only issue is most everything he does is in limited batches and they sellout quickly

5. 
   patrickmh79 | Oct 21, 2020 10:56am | #5

   This is what I bought. Thanks!

   
6. 
   weymouth2 | Oct 21, 2020 01:06pm | #6

   nicely done! Thanks for following up. I'm a little jealous. I'd file this under "things I wouldn't ordinarily buy for myself" category, but I'd love to have them and I'm sure he will too.

7. 
   patrickmh79 | Oct 21, 2020 01:24pm | #7

   Thank you very much for your help.

8. 
   john_c2 | Oct 21, 2020 02:45pm | #8

   Great tools.

9. 
   patrickmh79 | Oct 21, 2020 03:38pm | #9

   thank you