Tools of
The Eccentric Workshop
a brief look into the toolbox
wood · metal · leather · electronics
Tools
I didn't buy all of these tools at once - or even over a few years - I've been slowly collecting and upgrading tools for over 20 years. This partial list shows a snapshot in the collection process that has taken many years.
I spend a fair amount of time researching and reading reviews prior to purchasing tools to ensure I get the best value I can and get something meeting my expectations. I buy the best tools I need with their shortcomings taken into account.
Remember, better tools makes good work easier and faster but don't ensure it. Only a poor craftsman blames his tools.
Electronics
I started off with the classic Weller soldering gun - too large to do much of anything but still occasionally useful. I upgraded a few years later to a cheap Radioshack soldering kit with a 35 watt iron - a great improvement. A few years later, I again upgraded; this time to a Pro'sKit iron as part of a tool kit required for a college course. Again, a few years later, I upgraded to a used Hakko 936 soldering station - I finally was in the world of temperature controlled stations. This setup served me well until I came across a great deal on my current Hakko FM-203 station. The FM-203 allowed me to get into cartridge irons and use Hakko FM-2023 hot tweezers, both of which open up entirely new techniques.
Around the same time as the Hakko 936, I entered into the world of hot air rework stations for surface mount work with the Hakko 850. I upgraded to the Quick 861DW around the same time as the FM-203. Combined with an AmScope microscope, these tools allow for board level diagnostic and repair through microsoldering. In conjunction with an infrared reflow oven, short production runs can be quickly and affordably completed.
You can find an article about more of the tools I use or recommend on the blog.
In addition to these tools, I also have a comprehensive set of diagnostic tools:
- analog, digital (Rigol 1054z), and a combination oscilloscope
- HP 545a Logic Probe, HP 546a Logic Pulser, and HP 547a Current Tracer
- USB Logic Analyzer (Saleae clone for use with Sigrok) - get the leads, too
- Fluke 179 Multimeter (plus other cheaper meters)
- Mastech MS5308 LCR Meter
- EDS, Inc. LeakSeeker 89
- GW Instek GPS-3030DD Power Supply
- USB Amp Meter
Hakko FM-203 Soldering Station
This is a dual port soldering station capable of running two hand pieces at the same time including irons, tweezers, and desoldering tools.
AmScope Microscope
Working under a microscope presents some challenges but overall makes things much easier - it is surprising how well you can work when you are able to see.
Quick 861DW Hot Air Station
This is a hot air station used for surface mount soldering and rework. This station has proven itself to be a great value for the price.
Tweezers
Good tweezers make all the difference when working with small components.
Metal
I'm still slowly setting up more metalworking capabilities.
Lincoln Precision TIG 225
This 230 amp stick and TIG welder has served me well for nearly 20 years now and is what I learned TIG welding on.
HTP ProPulse 220MTS
This welder is a multi-process machine for MIG (regular, synergic, " pulsed), DC TIG, and stick welding. It can run steel, stainless, aluminum, bronze, or flux-cored wires.
Plasma Cutter
I bought into one of the cheap eBay plasma cutters years ago before they got popular and the prices went way up. I have a Riland Cut40d. It has worked great for years and cuts up to 3/4" steel.
Grinders
Angle grinders are essentials and I have two - one holds a grinding disc or cut off wheel and the other always has a flap disc on it. Get some and try - they will change the way you work.
Wood
My wood tools are getting more use as I construct wooden planes, signs, small furniture pieces, and other stage decor.
I find, over time, as I do this more, I'm migrating towards Festool tools for their improved usability and higher quality. And the dust collection; mostly the dust collection.
In addition to the tools highlighted below:
- Kobalt 30 gallon air compressor
- Craftsman 3x21 belt sander
- Harbor Freight 4x36 belt/disc sander<
- Harbor Freight 1x30 belt sander
- Harbor Freight quick release and bar clamps
- Various framing, 18 gauge, and 23 gauge nailers (Porter Cable and Harbor Freight)
- Milwaukee M18 Fuel cordless drill, impact, and saw kit
- Mostly Printed CNC is still in the works
10" Craftsman Bandsaw
I picked this bandsaw up used quite a few years ago. It is old, it vibrates, it doesn't have a good table, and it has no fence. But, it still works pretty well and cuts everything I've needed. Some day I'll upgrade to a nice 14" bandsaw.
Makita Random Orbit Sander
Nearly every wood item I made used to get touched by this sander at some point. It is the easiest and most efficient way to prepare a piece for finish. I've since switched over to a Festool 6" sander for less vibration, better dust control, and faster sanding.