How Nail Guns Work

If you've ever missed the nail and hit your thumb with a hammer, you understand the draw of a nail gun. And the raw power is a nice perk too. Some nail guns can launch nails at 1,400 feet per second.

Inside an Electric Screwdriver

Electric screwdrivers combine batteries, motors, gears and a switch into one extremely compact package. How can such a lightweight, handheld tool drill through tough wood or even metal?

Circular Saw

A circular saw makes cuts in wood, metal, or plastic with a round, flat blade. Check out this article for tips on how to use this power saw.

Drills

In most materials, a drill is the best way to make a hole. Learn about drills, and review the differences between the two major types of drills and bit sizes.

Electrical Tools

Electrical components in your home sometimes stop working because the flow of electricity has been interrupted. The electrical tools in this article will help you measure the current, locate interrupted connections, and clean blocked contacts.

Hacksaw

A hacksaw is the tool to grab when you need to cut a metal pipe or other small household material. Find out how to properly use this handsaw.

Home Repair Tools

Before you begin any home improvement project, be sure you have the appropriate tools for the job. Read about the different types of home repair tools available to you, and the purpose each serves.

Power Drill

A power drill features an electric motor that rotates a drill bit to make a hole. Learn all about this powerful all-purpose tool here.

Power Saws

A power saw can be intimidating, but is actually easy and efficient to use. Learn about power saws and their uses, and determine when a power saw might be the right tool for you.

Reciprocal Saw

A reciprocal saw is basically a larger horizontal version of a saber saw. Learn more about this home repair tool.

Saber Saw

The saber saw uses a reciprocating motor that moves a small saw blade up and down. Learn more about how this versatile power saw works.

Sander

An electric sander removes material from a surface with much greater speed than sanding by hand. Learn more about sanders.

Saws

For cutting wood, metal, plastics, or just about any material you might encounter, a saw will do the trick. Learn all about saws, and which one is right for your home repair project.

Why is a table saw quiet but a circular saw loud?

I have a circular saw that is so loud I have to use hearing protectors whenever I use it. My vacuum cleaner is also as loud as a jet engine. But I was at a hardware store the other day and there was a giant radial arm saw there. When the guy turned it on, it was whisper quiet. How can this 30-inch saw be so much quieter than my little circular saw?