Introduction to Power Tools

1. Introduction

Jordan Smith is a professional builder and the owner of Smith House, a design-build firm in Austin, Texas. In this course, he shares the history of power tools and basic power tool terminology, noting how to select tools by power volume and charging preference.

2. Types of Motors and Power Sources

Jordan introduces two power systems: brushed motors (reliable, inexpensive, heavy) and brushless motors (lighter, powerful, more expensive). You’ll learn why brushed motors work best for heavy machinery and why brushless motors are ideal for hand tools.

3. Common Power Tools: Drills

Jordan explains how drills work. Plus: using a hammer drill with a concrete drill bit.

4. Common Power Tools: Impact Drivers

They may look similar, but impact drivers and drills differ when it comes to energy transfers and fastening power. Jordan breaks down the anatomy of the driver and shows how to attach drill bits.

5. Drill Bits

Discover everything from paddle to auger bits. Jordan explains which work best for particular jobs and shows proper attachment and use.

6. Fasteners

Jordan covers a range of fasteners, from Phillips heads to star bits. Find out which bits and impact drivers work best with certain fasteners.

7. Common Power Tools: Nailer

Learn all about nailers, one of the most common power tools. Jordan explains the differences between pneumatic and battery-powered nailers and shows how to safely use framing and trim nailers.

8. Powder-Actuated Tools

Powder-actuated tools drive fasteners into concrete and steel. Here, Jordan explains how they work and how to properly load and fire one.

9. Circular Saw: How It Works

Learn about how circular saws work and why Jordan prefers cordless saws over corded saws.

10. Circular Saw: The Blade

Learn how blade teeth affect a cut. Jordan shares which circular saw blades he prefers and how to select a blade for a project.

11. Circular Saw: Avoiding Kickback

Always be cautious of kickback when using a saw. Jordan explains how it happens and which techniques can help you safely avoid it.

12. Circular Saw

Jordan shows how to change the blade on a circular saw, explaining how each part functions.

13. Circular Saw: Safely Cutting Dimensional Lumber

Jordan lists the essential safety equipment he uses when working with saws. He shows how to make clean, quick cuts with a framing saw.

14. Circular Saw: Ripping Sheet Goods

Learn to use a circular saw on non-dimensional lumber. Jordan shows how to properly measure, mark, and cut the wood with precision.

15. Table Saw: How It Works

Jordan breaks down the anatomy of the table saw. You’ll learn to set table saw height, change the saw angle, and use a fence accessory.

16. Table Saw: Prepping Your Saw

Prep your saw by using dust extractors, attaching the blade properly, and clearing debris before it’s switched on.

17. Table Saw: Making Cuts

Make precise cuts with a push stick, miter gauge, and fence attachment.

18. Miter Saw: How It Works

Learn all about the miter, which slices in a controlled, up-and-down motion.

19. Miter Saw: Making Cuts

Jordan demonstrates various cuts: 90-degree crosscuts, bevel cuts, and miter cuts.

20. Miter Saw: Changing the Blade

Learn to safely change the blade and set the saw back to zero. Jordan explains the difference between loose and tight saws.

21. Reciprocating Saw

Reciprocating saws are mainly used for demolition. They can cut through nails, studs, and metal. Learn about various types of reciprocating blades, how to change them, and how a reciprocating saw works.

22. Oscillating Tool

Oscillating tools make precise cuts for demolition, framing, trim carpentry, and more. Jordan explains how they work, lists various blades, and demonstrates cuts.

23. Jigsaw

Jigsaws are ideal for making curved cuts, especially in finish carpentry. Jordan breaks down the anatomy of a jigsaw, reviews useful features, and demonstrates an S-shaped cut in a piece of wood.

24. Closing

Power tools are always evolving, but some basic tools are essential in construction. Jordan stresses the importance of knowing just what they are, how they work, and how to safely use them with care.