ATTENTION: We are experiencing technical difficulties with our login and checkout systems. If you experience an issue, please check back later. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Introduction to Power Tools

Discover a variety of power tools used in general, residential, and light commercial construction today. Learn the basic functions, how to safely operate them, and which accessories will help you and your team get the job done right.

VIEW TEAM PRICING

  • Access to course material 7x24 during your subscription.
  • Train with a Pro

  • Spanish Subtitles Available

  • Mobile Access

  • 24 In-depth Lessons

  • Certificate of Completion

  • Practical Resources

Lesson Plan

24 Video Lessons · 4H 53M

  • 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.

Who it's for: This course is designed for those beginning a new career in the trades looking to learn about the most common types of power tools, proper safety procedures, and techniques to use when working with various tools on a construction jobsite.

Key Topics

  • Power tools

  • How to use a circular saw

  • How to use a table saw

  • How to use a Miter saw

  • How to use a jigsaw

  • How to use an impact driver

4.8 Out of
5 stars

Overall rating of 29 students

Become Job Ready

This course will increase your knowledge for jobs like:

Checkmark

Carpenter

Checkmark

Apprentice Carpenter

Checkmark

Construction Laborer

Checkmark

Carpenter's Assistant

Checkmark

Carpenter Helper

Checkmark

Remodeler

For more information on these roles, visit our career page.

Search for these jobs at:

Team Pricing
> 6 seats
Save $5 per seat
$70 per seat

Common Questions

  • What is MT Copeland?

    MT Copeland helps you further your career in the building industry with expert-led online education that will make you a better, smarter tradesperson.

    Our training courses give you a foundation in construction fundamentals and trade skills with real-world applications and best practices to help you grow on the job.

  • What do courses include?

    Online courses include professionally produced videos taught by leaders in the trades and supplementary learning material such as quizzes, assessments and downloadable materials to help you acquire new skills. Watch anywhere, always at your own pace. We keep lesson videos short so they’re easy to watch after work or on your lunch break. You can finish a course in one sitting, or space it out over a week or two.

  • Can you learn with MT Copeland outside of the u.s.?

    Yes! You can take MT Copeland courses from anywhere in the world. Our courses are online, so if you have access to the Internet, you can watch our training videos. Courses are taught in English, with English captions and Spanish subtitles available.

  • Where did the name MT Copeland come from?

    MT Copeland was named after a legendary educator who promoted the idea that training in a specific trade paired with a knowledge of general business principles opens up a whole new world of career possibilities. We believe in the same powerful combination of skills and knowledge.

Build Smarter

Get the latest updates about new courses, special trainings, resources, and more.

Sign-up for your 7-day Free Trial

Access Every Course

No payment required

Get 15% off

your first purchase

*Terms & Conditions apply

Welcome,  Diamondback

20% OFF

your first purchase

*Terms & Conditions apply

GET

Welcome!