2. 4
Chapter
Hand Tools

3. Objectives Identify the most common hand tools.
Select the proper hand tool for a given job.
Identify the main parts and purpose of each major hand tool.
Explain proper methods of tool maintenance and storage.

4. Tapes and Rules 25′ to 35′ tapes used for most measuring jobs
Blade 3/4″ or 1″ wide
Hook on end
Locking mechanism
Spring-loaded
50′ or 100′ tapes used for building layouts

5. Pro Tip Dirt and moisture can enter tape case when retracting tape
To prevent damage to tape measure
Wipe tape with cloth as it is retracted
Take special care if tape is wet

6. Framing Squares Also called rafter square Tables printed on them
Blade
Tongue
Heel
Face
Tables printed on them
Useful in making scale drawings

7. Speed Squares Also called quick square or super square
Can be used to mark any angle for rafter cuts
Used by carpenters more than any other square

8. Try Squares Available with blades 6″ to 12″ Wood or metal handles
Used to check squareness of surfaces and edges

9. Combination Squares Used to lay out miter joints
Used as marking gauge to make parallel lines
Difficult to carry in tool belt
Not as durable as speed squares

10. Marking Gauge Used to lay out parallel lines along edges of material
Butt gauge
Scratch awl
Chalk lines can be used to mark long, straight lines

11. Level and Plumb Bob Levels Plumb bob
Vial filled with liquid to create bubble
Centered bubble indicates level surface
Plumb bob
Hangs from line
Establishes true vertical line
Empire Level, Inc.

12. Saws Crosscut saws cut across wood grain Ripsaws cut best along grain
Coping saws can make very fine cuts
Hacksaws can be used to cut nails, bolts, and metal

13. Planing, Smoothing, and Shaping Tools
Smooth plane
Jack plane
Fore and jointer plane
Block plane
Wood chisel
Tin snips
Utility knife

14. Fastening Tools Claw hammers Sledge hammers Nail sets
Most often used fastening tool
Sledge hammers
Used to drive stakes and do other heavy work
Nail sets
Used to drive heads of finishing nails below wood surface
McRae True Value Hardware

15. Pro Tip Hammers should be given good care Keep hammer face clean
Keep hammer handle tight by
Driving wedges deeper
Installing new handle

16. Pulling Nails
Use putty knife or wood block to increase leverage and protect surface
Use ripping claw hammer to separate two nailed surfaces

17. Hatchets Used for rough work on jobs
Making stakes
Building concrete forms
Some are designed for wood shingle work
Estwing Mfg. Co.

18. Screwdrivers Many sizes and styles Sizes specified by length of blade
Straight
Phillips
Torx
Square
Sizes specified by length of blade
Tips must be carefully picked for job

19. Prying Tools
Take apart nailed structural members, forms, or temporary braces
Pry bars
Wrecking bars
Flat bars
Cat’s paw
Nail puller

20. Safety Note When using pry bars
Establish good balance before applying force to bar
Grip bar so fingers are not bruised as fastener or piece comes free
Always wear safety glasses

21. Gripping and Clamping Tools
Wood clamps and C-clamps are used while
Attaching metal fasteners
Adhesives are setting
Working on wood parts
Hand screws are ideal for woodworking
McRae True Value Hardware

22. Clamps Bar clamps or pipe clamps
Useful for holding larger pieces
May be adjustable at both jaws
Clamping pliers can be substituted for vise or wrench
American Tool

23. Wrenches Useful in maintaining tools and other equipment
Come in variety of sizes

24. Tool Belts and Storage Tool belts, tool holders
May be designed to hang from waist
Keep tools close and ready for use
Portable containers are used to store tools on jobsites
Truecraft Tools

25. Thinking Green
Use green practices when selecting and using hand and power tools
Select tools with low impact on environment
Maintain and handle all tools properly
Avoid careless use of tools that can create waste or damage materials and tools

26. Care and Maintenance of Tools
Tools will not perform well if dull or out of adjustment
Keep tools clean
Keep tool handles tight
Hone edge tools using oilstone

27. Grinding Edges Blunt bevel can be reshaped by grinding
Grinding angle will vary depending on tool
Grinding and honing angles for jack plane iron are shown here

28. Saw Care Saws Require filing and setting
Before filing, often require jointing
May be sent to shop to be machine sharpened