The Leatherman Surge Multi Tool

This is the Leatherman Surge retailed at $89.99 It's a very useful knife. It has a very nice reputation and it's one of Leatherman's best multi-tools according to Leatherman and myself. I have alot of prior knowledge with Leatherman Multi-Tools and this is among the best. I love the durability, rust-proof , stainless steel handles, exchangable bits and saw/file, and the nice nylon sheath with the option of a leather sheath. All around I would give this Leatherman multi-tool a 9 out of 10. I love this knife for just about every kind of use. There are, however, a few negative things about this multi-tool (the key word is few) IE It is very heavy, weighing in at 12.6 Oz with the sheath (nylon) and 11.7 Oz without the sheath. Another small negative comment about the Leatherman Surge is the size, the sheath, witch is close to the size of the multi-tool, is 3 inches across and 5 1/2 inches tall. I bought this knife for $82.00 at Al's ArmyNavy Store on French Ave. in Sanford Florida.

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Two Common Nailing Tools - Hammer and Staple Gun

Hammers
A hammer should always be used for knocking in nails. The steel of a hammer head is specially heat treated to make the striking face hard enough to stop being damaged when it strikes a nail but not so hard that it becomes brittle and liable to shatter.

There are many different kinds of hammer. Some are designed for particular purposes such as bricklaying, panel-beating, stonework and upholstery. The two most common general-purpose hammers are designed for woodworking.

The curved claw hammer is designed for general-purpose woodworking and carpentry. The most common size is 16oz though 20 and 24oz hammers are also available. (The weight refers to the weight of the head.) Its weight makes it a quick, though tiring, tool to use and it is particularly useful for driving in long nails. It also has a hardened claw which is invaluable for pulling out nails and pins. The handles of curved claw hammers may be ash, glass fibre, hickory or steel. Glass fibre and steel-handled hammers usually have rubber hand grips.

The cross-pein (Warrington or joiners) hammer was designed for joinery and cabinet making. Standard sizes are 4, 6, 10, 12, 14 and 16oz. The smallest size is sometimes called a pin or tack hammer. The hardened cross pein (the tapered wedge end) is for starting small pins and tacks and for finishing off nails in awkwardly shaped mouldings. For metal-working, an engineer's hammer has a lounded ball pein.

Staple guns
For many jobs - particularly upholstery, fixing fibre ceiling tiles and securing underfelt - a staple gun will be more convenient than a hammer.

A staple gun fires hardened two-pronged staples into the work: these look a bit like the staples used to hold paper together but are larger and tougher. Special staples are available for particular jobs such as ceiling tiles and for securing panel clips for cladding.

Staple guns can be used in one hand and have cither a lever or, if electrically powered, a trigger. Other uses include picture framing, roof insulation, roller blinds, polythene sheeting and fencing. Special attachments are available for some of these jobs.

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Multi Tool Comparison

This is a comparison of a few of my multi tools as well as a few thoughts on their function.

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Chain Saw Cutting Problems

Chain saws are wonderful tools when they are cutting properly. Most people know that when a chain saw gets dull it does not cut very easily, and in fact can become quite dangerous. But, there are a number of other problems that can cause your chain saw to cut poorly. Most of these issues can be traced back to improper sharpening procedures or poor maintenance.

When you're cutting with your chain saw, if it cuts crooked or at an angle this is generally an indication that the teeth have been improperly filed. Either they were filed at the wrong angle, or every tooth was not filed the same amount and with the same pressure. If filing is not the cause of a chainsaw pulling to one side or the other, then it could be the bar or the sprocket at the far end of the bar are in poor condition and need maintenance or straightening.

If you have a newly sharpened chain saw and it dulls quickly, usually this is caused by thin cutting edges resulting from too much file pressure or low angle when sharpening your chain saw. Your chainsaw will need to be refiled using less pressure, as well as lowering the angle of attack and checking the height of the depth gauges.

If the chain grabs and cuts rough the saw sharpener probably induced a forward hook on the teeth as a result of too much pressure from the top of the file. A good indication that the depth gauges are set incorrectly is when the chain digs too far into the wood. You will need to lower the height of the depth gauges in most cases. If you detect overheating of the chain you may not have enough bar oil, or the saw sharpener created a backslope on the teeth during the last sharpening.

Drive link problems on the chain can result in severe problems like the chain jumping off the bar. Incorrect chain tension can cause this, and you may have to replace bent drive links on your chain. Also, excessive chain chatter can be caused by improper sprocket fit, and result in front or back peened drive links.

Whenever you identify these kinds of cutting problems with your chain saw you should immediately remove the bar and chain from the saw and inspect carefully. There are usually only a couple of nuts to remove the chain and separate the bar from the saw. This will allow you to inspect the parts for dangerous defects and keep your saw in good condition.

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Husqvarna Chainsaw Prices - How To Find The Right Chainsaw

Price is a big consideration when purchasing a chainsaw. Spending a small fortune on a saw and then letting it sit in your tool shed without using it is a little extravagant. Many will obviously look towards the main brands such as Husqvarna and Stihl to purchase their saws.

This article is intended for first time or home users and we'll use chainsaw giant Husqvarna as a guide to purchasing the right sized machine for your needs. The following Husqvarna chainsaw prices should only be regarded as a guide.

Small Chainsaws

For upwards of $200, a homeowner can purchase a good quality saw which will perform most of the tough jobs around the house. For example, the Husqvarna 137 is an ideal saw for part time users. It is extremely easy to start with enhanced safety features such as a double acting chain brake.

For a couple of hundred bucks, this is the type of machine a part time user should consider. Husqvarna chainsaw prices are pretty hard to compete with but it will pay to scan some of the forestry forums and ask whether there are cheaper priced options available.

Electric Chainsaws

These are a great alternative to the gas-powered models because of their lightweight and low noise factor. This makes them particularly ideal in major cities or suburban areas.

You'll obviously be restricted by freedom of movement because of the power chord attached to the machine but for jobs such as pruning and trimming, these make more economical sense.

Gas And Electric

Alternatively, if you live on a large block of land, either suburban or country, why not consider having the best of both worlds. Many chainsaw owners have both gas and electric machines which gives them plenty of options. For example, if wet weather is hampering the use of your electric chainsaw, then the gas-powered model can be used.

Price consideration becomes a factor here because Husqvarna chainsaw prices can be a little pricey in the electric range. This is a good time to consider the alternatives. Brands such as Craftsman, McCulloch and Remington offer some excellent alternatives for $60 and above.

The main drawback with the cheaper models when comparing them to brands such as Husqvarna is you'll be missing some of the components associated with the gas versions however, by following good safety protocol, this shouldn't be a reason for not buying.

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10 Power Tool Safety Tips

Power tools are indispensable for professionals and those who tackle DIY home improvement jobs. They are favored as they help users to save time and they also make the job easier. However, they need to be handled carefully otherwise they can lead to injury. Mishaps usually occur due to negligence, boredom, and overconfidence. By keeping the following 10 safety issues in mind, it is possible to work satisfactorily and safely with power tools.

1. Safety glasses: These prevent dust, debris, wood shavings, shards from fiberglass, etc from getting into the eyes. Safety glasses are one of the most basic pieces of safety equipment that must be used when working with power tools.

2. Protection for the ears: Power tools can generate a lot of noise, which may sound louder in the cloistered environment of a workshop; in order to minimize damage to the ears, it is advisable to wear earplugs.

3. Knowing the right tools for the job: It is important to know the right tools for the job in order to avoid injury to oneself and damage to the materials. To this end, it is advisable to thoroughly read the instruction manuals provided with the equipment and get familiar with the recommended safety precautions.

4. Correct method of using tools: Tools should not be carried by their cords; tools that are not in use should be disconnected; and while handling a tool connected to a power source, fingers should be kept away from the on/off switch.

5. The right clothes: Long hair should be tied and loose clothing should be avoided. Ideally, clothing that covers the entire body should be worn and heavy gloves should be used in order to avoid sharp implements and splinters from hurting the hands. Masks prevent inhalation of harmful minute particles of the material that is being worked upon. Steel-toed work boots and hard hats can also be worn.

6. Tool inspection: Power tools should not be employed in wet environments and should never be dipped in water; they should be checked periodically for exposed wiring, damaged plugs, and loose plug pins. Nicked cords can be taped but if a cut appears to be deep, a cord should be replaced. Tools that are damaged or those that sound and feel different when used should be checked and repaired.

7. Cleanliness in the work area: This should be maintained because accumulated dust particles in the air can ignite with a spark. Of course, flammable liquids should be kept covered and away from the place where power tools are being used. An uncluttered work area also makes it easy to maneuver the power tool; often distractions caused by a tangled cord can result in an accident.

8. Care with particular tools: Miter saws and table saws should be used with a quick-release clamp and a wood push-through, respectively. Extra care should be taken while using nail guns and power belt sanders.

9. Keep tools in place: Power tools should be returned to their cabinets after use to prevent them from being used by an unauthorized and incapable person.

10. Lighting: It is important to use proper lighting while working with power tools, particularly when working in the basement and garage where lighting may not be satisfactory.

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Corian Glue

Du Pont is one scientist that we should all be proud of. In the 1960s, he invented the artificial Corian glue. The glue consists of natural stones, 2/3 parts of white clay/aluminum trihydrate (AL(OH)3), methylacrylate and some edible pigments. Methylacrylate provides the stickiness of the glue. Earlier, the natural stones were quiet expensive. They symbolized a state of honor. The artificial glue was cheap. Its popularity thus spread.

When using the Corian glue, the surface of the material must be well polished. The glue is then poured on the surface. It should be spread evenly and made smooth. It is better to cover the article being fixed. The glue will later harden after some time.

The advantages of Corian glue are wide and many. It does not need to to be colored externally. This is because it can be made using different colors and textures. It can be polished using sand paper. Thus, when scratched, it can look new after being polished. It is impermeable to water. It can therefore be used on the counter tops of bathrooms and kitchens.

It can be used on the counter tops of bars, banks, reception desks and swimming pools. It is impermeable to both water and germs. It is therefore very hygienic. It is used in hospitals, surgery rooms and clinics. It can be used for advertising signs that are placed outside. The glue is long lasting. Though artificial, the glue allows the articles to have the beauty of natural stones. Some people use the glue for the decoration of rooms and other parts of the house.

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EDC as of 7-25-09

Whats in my pockets.

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