Toolkit Essentials

Scaffold fitting bolt sizes. Why multiple sizes exist and what regional standards determine which fittings appear on different jobsites.

The first hand plane purchase depends on what work needs doing. Block planes handle different tasks than jack planes, and each serves distinct purposes in a workshop.

Scaffolding tool tethering requirements and why that hole in your scaffold wrench exists. Plus what the physics and liability data show.

Block planes work one-handed at 6 inches long. Bench planes need two hands at 14 to 22 inches. The size difference determines what each plane can actually do to wood.

Let's dive into the world of scaffold podger tools. Find out what the tapered alignment spike does and why it saves scaffolders substantial time during assembly.

Scaffold spanners and ratchets, what differentiates these tools and when scaffolders reach for each one.

Plane blades start as steel blanks and go through grinding, hardening, and tempering. The steel composition and heat treatment determine how long edges stay sharp.

Marking gauges scribe lines parallel to board edges using a pin or wheel that scores the wood surface. The fence rides the edge while the marking point creates a reference line.

This is a complete guide to Stanley block planes. Learn how precision hand tools transform rough lumber from this comprehensive equipment analysis.

This is a comparison of water levels and laser levels. Learn how ancient physics meets modern precision from this detailed analysis.

Bull floats level and smooth wet concrete across large surface areas using long handles that reach 6 to 16 feet. The wide blade flattens high spots and fills low areas before final finishing.

A darby straightens and levels wet concrete using a long, straight blade typically 3 to 8 feet long. The tool bridges surface irregularities to flatten concrete before bull floating.

This is a comparison of magnesium floats and steel trowels. Learn how to recognize when each tool creates its distinctive finish from this detailed breakdown.