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Last week we ran a contest asking for your submission of your favorite “Cool Tools.” The responses were overwhelming, and after a random selection I am proud to announce the winners. Each winner will receive a DIY Network Komelon SS Gripper tape measure. So without further ado, here are the winners along with their votes for favorite “Cool Tool.”


Thomas Kathan
I have been woodworking for a few years and would class myself as an intermediate – good with the yard items but not expert enough to make real intricate home furnishings – yet

My son bought me a biscuit joiner and boy I love that – sure is a simple and secure way to join wood as compared to some of the more complicated techniques – e.g., mortise and tenons

and secondly is my router and router table – once I tried it I fell in love with it – so many wonderful things can be done with a router


Josh Brown
My taiwanese wood-bodied jack plane from Lee Valley is my favorite “cool tool.” It’s simple to adjust and use, as well as nice to look at too. Mmmmm…rosewooooood…

Ken Alcott
My favorite tool is my Ridgid TS3650. I have been able to learn so much as a newbie and this saw has been a lot of fun to work with.

Thanks again to everyone for their submissions, and don’t forget to catch the DIY Network’s Holiday Blitz of “Cool Tools” starting Thanksgiving Day through November 30th.

, Drew DePenning


Product Recommendations

Here are some supplies and tools we find essential in our everyday work around the shop. We may receive a commission from sales referred by our links; however, we have carefully selected these products for their usefulness and quality.

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The handle of the Veritas dovetail saw attaches to the spine using a single long stud with a nut on the end. It should be robust.