Just a great, straight-forward review of essential hand tools you need to get started. Basically, this is what you need, and why. I wish I had know this earlier because it could have saved me money avoiding trial and error purchases. Like many things in life, you don’t know, what you don’t know.
I do not remember how many times I have been watching you sharpening the tools. You make me realized sharpening is not that difficult. It make a huge difference!
Excellent! Mr Cosman is a great teacher and master craftsman, we need more people like him in the industry. Thank you for your time, knowledge and sharing!!
Robert Amsbury My work quality and enjoyment improved 1000 times after I bought a set of shapton stones. No way would I go back to using dull or just barley sharp tools.
I think beginners tools is an inappropriate description. These are high end and very expensive tools. For a beginner to put down this amount of money they would have to be rich or very certain woodworking is "their thing". As an example of a small-ish set of tools that will cover most woodworking for a long time it is great.
I am so scared to get rid of my power tools for hand tools. I really want to mostly because I don’t want the noise of power but I just always like the idea of sharpening my cutting tools and watching them work. I can’t have both as I’m not rich but should I sell my power tools and just go for it?
I think this is a great list. If anything, for those like me who are easing in and buying tools when they can, I'd say a great place to cut down on initial cost is in the saws. Japanese saws are a great way to get the saws you need to get started for less than the price of one quality western style saw.
You know I've been into this for a year now, and I have to say there's one tool that should probably be number 2 on your list and isn't even on it.... you most definitely need a BENCH before you get into rabbet planes or mortising gauges! Anyone who has scrub planed a board using a Workmate will agree!
Anyone who has scrub-planed a board on a Workmate is probably quite capable of making their own bench. Indeed, one might argue that any woodworker who takes themselves even half seriously would make their own anyway, as a point of pride... and anyone outside of that can just find a number of pretty easy instructions online. Give it a go. It's brilliant fun - I really recommend it!!
You know you are right a good bench is absolutely a necessity and if you subscribe to Robs channel he has some great videos that will take you through the process of constructing one. He has one series on an assembly table / first work bench and then an incredibly detailed series on building a dream bench (178 half hour videos.)
Of course, the last thing I scrub planed on my Workmate was the pieces for my bench top. ;) Technically it also came in under $100 as I got the SYP used, but it was well over $100 once I got all the drawers made.
I was mainly intending to point out that having a bench wasn't an assumption on my part - I thought I could do without for longer than I did, but I found out the hard way that frankly, hand tool woodworking sucks without a bench.
I agree that a Workmate is not a workbench LOL, but that said but you do not need anything fancy. As long as it's solid and you have some way to secure your work - good to go. Any beginning woodworker can build a usable bench for $1-200 (or less, really..) out of 2x4s and MDF. Some good vices on a utility bench are better than a fancy bench with lousy vices however. As soon as you can - buy a good vice.
Rob, you got me into hand planes. I’m wanting a Veritas Rabbit plane but as usual these days it’s unavailable. Would the LN Skewed Block plane be as good making rabbits?
While I agree wholeheartedly with the philosophy that cheap tools are a false economy, I'm also struck by the realization that a craftsman of Rob's magnitude will produce far better results with *any* tool than a neophyte like me can get with the very best. I have zero doubt that Rob could cut better dovetails freehand with a rusty spoon than I can with the best tools and a jig. It's a little daunting, but a good incentive to keep practicing.
Hi Rob, Very informative this Vid !. I have 2 questions: First, is it necessary to own a ForePlane and secondly, is this Foreplane does need a cambered Blade ? Regards.
Hi Rob Je suis de Boibriand,Quebec,Canada J’aime vraiment ce que tu fait ❤️ Je viens de regarder ta video et je me suis demandé pourquoi tu utilise pas la collection Veritas qui est canadien 🤔 J’ai pas très bien compris la marque de tes ciseaux a bois qui vient de l’ontario tu pourrais me le redire svp Merci
A very good selection of tools to do most basic woodworking tasks. Well thought out and presented. Great idea about the detachable handle on the chisels. One matter though, I am not commenting on the quality of the tools; merely on their pedigree. Its a personal bias you may say. I would never buy Wood River tools. Why? Because in spite of their quality; Woodcraft makes them in China. Now, I know well that China can produce extremely high quality if its required. However; why would I give my money to a Chinese made product, when I can give an American family a paycheck. Lie-Nielsen makes fabulously high quality American made tools, and I just love their manganese and ductile iron planes. They are gorgeous. And expensive. But, besides keeping jobs at home, one buys high quality tools for a lifetime. The cost one pays is minimal in comparison to the longetivity of the tool, its performance, and the legacy one leaves to one's children's. So I buy American made high quality Lie-Nielsen tools. That is my bias. Likewise so far where brass backed tenon saws are concerned, I also go with Lie-Nielsen, not because they simply are completely manufactured in the USA, but because Lie-Nielsen brass backed tenon saws have just about the deepest cut in that manner of handsaw. Overall, a great video and presentation.
Good luck,the only guy who could blow a project with those tools would be the sucker with the bread to buy em. Poor folks Restore antique examples,and make their own marking gauges and granny’s tooth planes.
Thank you very much for your teaching as I always have been interested in wood working and I am fascinated by the mortise and tenon and dove tail construction. I will be seeing more of you and a set of those hand saws will be absolutely positively part of my inventory. Where to buy in California?.
There are lots of approaches for beginners. When I teach I recommend using decent wood even for absolute beginners. Using cheap softwood can be demoralising. The same applies to tools. However, not many beginners want to outlay large amounts of money. At that stage they don’t know if they will persist, or whether they want a few power tools. They might neither have the skill to renovate second hand antiques. There are old tools on eBay that come ready to use, if you look carefully. So a newbie can set up for a few dollars each for a tenon saw, chisels, Stanley block plane and a number5. A square is absolutely essential. Again old ones are better and cheap. A small fine tooth hardpoint saw covers a lot of the work. After a year or two then start treating yourself to Robs recommendations. They aren’t expensive considering a lifetimes use.
Jim Bo Coming from a beginner it can be hard to decipher what's quality and usable on eBay. I took a couple weekend courses at a local shop and bought Paul sellers book which is loaded with great info and still struggle knowing what is worth it and how much it's worth. Maybe it's just me but the clean older stuff maybe goes for 20% less then buying new(middle of the road new) and I know what I'm getting. The major setback is I have to Pace myself when buying the better stuff and can't splurge and buy everything at once. I'm sure alot of it is situational as I have a garage full of 1950-1970 restored power tools to supplement myself as I build my hand tool collection.
Thank you Mr.Cosman. I am a begginer in woodworking.I love hand tools, but good hand tools are just out of my budget range. Your video opened my eyes to this fact. I will stick with my " less expensive " electric tools. Once again, I thank you for your great video ! !
Roughly, what would this entire tool set cost? Could I get this for less than 2000 US? I've been woodworking for 18 years but I'm really interested in getting away from power tools altogether
+Rob Cosman good stuff. Thankful that there are capable folks like you who do things like these for our combat veterans. I’m a self-taught carpenter and novice woodworker. Easing off the machine whenever I could to focus more on the old ways. I will reward myself by and by with your recommended tools ea time I get over certain “benchmarks”. Great products btw. Great patch, great division, the 10th Mountain. Thank you for your “service”, sir.
Rob, have you ever thought about tapering the blade on your saws like the lie Nielsen ones? I own a lie Nielsen tapered dovetail saw, and I find that the taper is super useful, and would love to see you incorporate it into your saws! It would be incredible to have the taper, fine teeth to start, and that heavy handle. Would definitely have to buy one :)
Rob Cosman I meant the taper as in the height of the blade from the brass back to the teeth. The taper helps you to not saw past your baseline on the backside of the stock. I didn’t think it would be so useful, but I’ve grown to really like it. Would love to try out your saw one day. Just have other expenses at the moment :)
Picking up mortise chisels has been creeping up higher on my list. Knowing to care about the sides for registering is great to know. Also I think you mention using the mortise gauge that you should use the width of the chisel blade to match the width of the mortise itself. Very helpful information. I will probably buy a Narex set with 4, 5, 6, 8 , 10, and 12 mm sizes. 80 bucks seems reasonable.
What are the next best starter mortise chisels that are square and I can get five to eight of them for around $100? I have seen older ones and probably have a quarter inch one buried with other old-old tools. Alex: Do you think it is possible your Narex are a different generation than current? They look straight from pictures it is impossible to be sure.
The chisel blades of these 8112 Narex mortice chisels are correctly trapezoidal in section and have been neatly CNC machined from Chrome Manganese (CrMn) spring steel, which was developed for Narex specifically for the purpose of making edge tools. This means that Narex mortice chisels take and hold a superb edge. The Narex 8112 mortice chisels are accurate, hard and immensely tough: serious tools and seriously good value for money.
The Ray Isles mortising chisels are trapezoidal as well so you can free them by pulling towards you when they jam in the wood. They are a very old classic design with modern steel; not horribly expensive either.
Great feedback and fair review.. One tool I think it should be added in this collection is scraper card.. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us Rob.
Tried to visit the IBC website (robcosman.com/products/ibc-bench-chisels) but my security software said the site wasn't 'private' and wouldn't let me go there. Might be something to check out...
I use 3 planes regularly. My Stanley #5 1/2, Bedrock #4 and Stanley low angle block plane I forget the #. Japaneese chisels I feel are superior also japaneese saws far superior.
What sort of input did you have in the design of the plane and chisels? They look like the same design that's been around for 100 years? I'd love to know the refinements younmade
Well, I’m glad you asked NC, ME MYSELF, I started by putting a brand new name on the side of the tools in fancy type writing - then I ... ahh ... ummm ... stopped. Yep. That was it! Stopped right there - if it ain’t broke NC... wink wink. So NC, how many of MY 50 Tools in MY Top TEN Tool video would you like to buy from ME? For an extra 15% I’ll sign ONE just for you!
I think a smaller "smoother" size bench plane really should be included in this list, especially for anyone doing anything other than house furniture, or anything planed in place (at potentially awkward angles)away from the bench. No matter what else I had in my kit, I could not do without either a #3 or a #4. I was just raising this same objection with Matt Estlea on his "What planes do you need" vid the other day. Different focus there, as he was only speaking of essential planes, not a whole kit of all necessary tools... but my conclusion is the same. He ended with a low angle jack (#5 size, I believe the old Stanley number was a #62), and a block plane, as his vital "first purchase" recommendations. Even MORE so here, with your choice of the 5-1/2, I say you need a #3 or #4 for those common in-between tasks, where a "Jack Plane" is too big, and a Block plane is a bit too small. You CAN get by with nothing in that in-between size, but why make life hard on yourself? There's a reason the #4 is SO common on the antique market. The old-timers used that one at least as much as the #5 (the latter generally referred to as the "most versatile"). Point being, you really should have both.
Fair enough, I guess... Along those lines, would you feel any interest in doing a follow-on "Next 10" hand-tools list? (I.e., items 11 through 20 on your priority list, aka. "additional tools you'll find yourself wanting eventually"?) I realize your whole point here is basically talking to people just getting started (and on a presumably limited budget), with the implication that once they've been at it for awhile, they'll know what further tools they need from growing experience. But it might placate guys like me who'd like to hear a compare/contrast of why some other tools considered basic by tradition, have been reduced to second-tier priority in your scheme. I mean, I take your point on the Jack vs. Smoother example. But calling the #140 skew-rabbet block a high priority was another surprise for me. I'd be interested in your thoughts on what other "also nice to have" items would come recommended immediately after that one. I'll also try to keep reminding myself, that we're speaking here of Furniture-work specifically, not traditional house-carpentry, nor boatbuilding.
Another great video Rob! It's quite apparent; you are passionate about your craft and desire to pass on years of experience to others yearning to learn more. You have a personal and financial investment in the videos that are well made and put them out to everyone for FREE. As a hobby woodworker, I value your opinion of tools regardless of whether you are a reseller or a retailer of tools you manufacture yourself. Yes, you have a bias on tools you produce and rightly so, but also highlight other manufacturers as well. Your tools receive high marks in favorite woodworking magazines. Years of experience has taught you what tools and practices get the best results in the least amount of time and effort. I appreciate your "Top Ten List" for what it was intended to be, not the least expensive, but the most effective and "why." For myself, quality is more important than quantity. How a tool performs and feels in hand has immeasurable value. I am blessed to have a good job and can afford quality tools every once in a while. Life is busy; time in the woodshop is precious and limited. Your videos are brutally honest and candid. While working on a project and you make a mistake as we ALL do, you show them. Mistakes aren't edited out. Instead, methods on how to make corrections are explained. It shows integrity. Thank you for all the great videos.
@@sampokemppainen3041 Not even close. Also no where does he say anything about not learning the craft. It's common knowledge you can get anything done with cheap tools. Cheap tools also bring loads of frustration and waste a lot of time because they don't work well are inaccurate and are a pain to set up. Its also common knowledge that more expensive tools usually cut down the frustration considerably and in most cases make the work enjoyable.
Rob Cosman thanks for taking the time to reply. That is great to hear, but probably means they are out of my price range! Are these sold in the UK do you know? Like your videos by the way.
The apron that you are wearing is awesome, I am currently active duty military (Army). I am stationed at fort Bragg, NC with the 20th Engineer Brigade which is that patch with the White Castle and red borders. #Airborne #AirAssault
every wounded Vet that comes to our workshop gives me a patch they most identify with. I get a new apron each spring and fall. Thank you for your service Isai.
RobCosman.com No thank you for the knowledge you share, it is very helpful to beginners like myself. You know what they say smart people learn from their mistakes, the wise learn from others.
All very expensive tools for what they are, but I most disagree with the initial purchase of a ridiculous sharpening set up, for what that could cost you could buy a used Stanley no 4(or 5), your three basic chisels and a couple of fine tooth hard point saws,and have more than enough money to buy a Norton double sided "India" oilstone the sharpener that generations of joiners have found quite adequate for a lifetimes work (Ok you can have an old belt to make a strop with !). I remember the very few much loved tools my father used to make the the kitchen and tables in our first house (I have some of them still). I feel strongly that this array of over important tools hides the fact that they won't make you a joiner just by spending the money, what you need is ten years practice and some aptitude.
CrimeVid, wow dude, you have a whole different approach than every other person that I have ever seen claim to teach others. Sharpening not that important? Really? Holy crap!!!! I have been wrong all these years? I have wasted soooo much time sharpening my tools. Who knew that sharpening wasn’t important? I wonder, how long does it take you to “Sharpen a chisel?” Or a plane iron?
Richard Blair I think you'll find that I did not suggest for one minute that sharpening was not important, what I did suggest that sharpening with the most expensive stones you can find is pointless but also pandering to an industry that has only one intention,parting the credulous from their money in large lumps. An oversharpened blade of any type will break back anyway. Leaping to the defence of a channel which is basically one long advert is laughable. Mr Cosman seems to be an excellent tradesman, that is why I watched this video, I object to the sales pitch it spoils his credibility.
Hi Rob, thanks for the video. As usual I inspect the comments and I'm actually shocked that you don't let the work of your other videos talk for itself. I have watch many of your uploads but in each one you seem to focus on the negative comments (generally a stupid/belittling comments which is left with a argumentative reply from yourself) Honestly I would have though you'd have the decency to let it slide and have a positive reaction to those who who actually want your interaction for the better of their skills with your knowledge. I realise you are defending some of your products and I know this is an old video but just think about it. Cheers, Angus
The more you talk about tools and how to’s you start to mumble and the volume of your speech goes down. Very frustrating when trying to pay attention to instructional videos, annunciate your words please! I like your videos so please try, as you are not the only one making instructional woodworking videos, thank you.
No one should be buying new bench or jack planes today. There's so many out there for cheap to buy used. I've never paid more than $20 for a used jack plane. At the peak of the market you'd better believe I'm getting a Stanley Bedrock plane. I've paid as little as a dollar for a mint condition No. 4 too.
Paul, Are you volunteering to help those of us less experienced folks wisely choose used tools to purchase so we know we are getting a good deal and not getting taken?
@@brianworley7705 one should know what things are worth before purchasing them. Second hand buying can be a subtle business. It is very catch as catch can. There are ways of improving your odds. You can employ the law of large numbers. If you shop a lot you increase your chances of finding what you are looking for. You also educate yourself about the market as a whole. You learn what a good deal is. Persistence pays off.
As long as his involvement in making or selling the tool is clearly stated (which it is here) then no problem. Apart from the mortice chisels I agree with all of these recommendations, personally I never bother with mortice chisels.
The thing about Rob is he's pushing actually good products that he's genuinely passionate about, not like some people who are fake as hell, where they say they use so and so a brand (while being paid) and if you go to another video they use a completely different brand
Just a great, straight-forward review of essential hand tools you need to get started. Basically, this is what you need, and why. I wish I had know this earlier because it could have saved me money avoiding trial and error purchases. Like many things in life, you don’t know, what you don’t know.
I do not remember how many times I have been watching you sharpening the tools. You make me realized sharpening is not that difficult. It make a huge difference!
Excellent! Mr Cosman is a great teacher and master craftsman, we need more people like him in the industry.
Thank you for your time, knowledge and sharing!!
he's my freaking uncle and i just found out he internet famous this is gonna take a while to process
I like the starting emphasis on sharpening - it speaks volumes!
Robert Amsbury My work quality and enjoyment improved 1000 times after I bought a set of shapton stones. No way would I go back to using dull or just barley sharp tools.
By far the best introduction to beginner woodworking tools ever!!!
I think beginners tools is an inappropriate description. These are high end and very expensive tools. For a beginner to put down this amount of money they would have to be rich or very certain woodworking is "their thing".
As an example of a small-ish set of tools that will cover most woodworking for a long time it is great.
Thank you for your continued support to our Veterans! I am now biased to like your videos.
this guy is a master !! i love the battery charger too
For thicker wood if cross cutting would you use a bow saw over traditional western saws?
none of those tools had triggers, are they cordless?
😂😂😂 going green
Works off of magic.. Shhhsh, don't tell!
Yes, they are ALL cordless
The original cordless tools
😂
I'm late to the video but appreciate the insight, I subbed and liked, I'm actually using your list to procure these tools. Go ARMY!!!
I am so scared to get rid of my power tools for hand tools. I really want to mostly because I don’t want the noise of power but I just always like the idea of sharpening my cutting tools and watching them work. I can’t have both as I’m not rich but should I sell my power tools and just go for it?
Currently I have all of those tools except the No 7 plane. Thanks Rob. I will check out your store.
I think this is a great list. If anything, for those like me who are easing in and buying tools when they can, I'd say a great place to cut down on initial cost is in the saws. Japanese saws are a great way to get the saws you need to get started for less than the price of one quality western style saw.
You know I've been into this for a year now, and I have to say there's one tool that should probably be number 2 on your list and isn't even on it.... you most definitely need a BENCH before you get into rabbet planes or mortising gauges!
Anyone who has scrub planed a board using a Workmate will agree!
Anyone who has scrub-planed a board on a Workmate is probably quite capable of making their own bench. Indeed, one might argue that any woodworker who takes themselves even half seriously would make their own anyway, as a point of pride... and anyone outside of that can just find a number of pretty easy instructions online.
Give it a go. It's brilliant fun - I really recommend it!!
You know you are right a good bench is absolutely a necessity and if you subscribe to Robs channel he has some great videos that will take you through the process of constructing one. He has one series on an assembly table / first work bench and then an incredibly detailed series on building a dream bench (178 half hour videos.)
Of course, the last thing I scrub planed on my Workmate was the pieces for my bench top. ;) Technically it also came in under $100 as I got the SYP used, but it was well over $100 once I got all the drawers made.
I was mainly intending to point out that having a bench wasn't an assumption on my part - I thought I could do without for longer than I did, but I found out the hard way that frankly, hand tool woodworking sucks without a bench.
I agree that a Workmate is not a workbench LOL, but that said but you do not need anything fancy. As long as it's solid and you have some way to secure your work - good to go. Any beginning woodworker can build a usable bench for $1-200 (or less, really..) out of 2x4s and MDF. Some good vices on a utility bench are better than a fancy bench with lousy vices however. As soon as you can - buy a good vice.
Rob, you got me into hand planes. I’m wanting a Veritas Rabbit plane but as usual these days it’s unavailable. Would the LN Skewed Block plane be as good making rabbits?
Will the Lie-Nielsen split net screwdriver work with your saws?
Thanks mate.
Wow! Mortise gage... Never seen before! Could you please give the link there I can get it. Thank you. Very informative and nteresting video. Like.
Here you go robcosman.com/collections/marking-gauges/products/master-product-page-template
While I agree wholeheartedly with the philosophy that cheap tools are a false economy, I'm also struck by the realization that a craftsman of Rob's magnitude will produce far better results with *any* tool than a neophyte like me can get with the very best. I have zero doubt that Rob could cut better dovetails freehand with a rusty spoon than I can with the best tools and a jig. It's a little daunting, but a good incentive to keep practicing.
Very interesting to see one professional take on a topic compared to another. Like his thoughts. I like rob as a woodworker. Cheers from Tasmania.
Incredibly valuable information. Thank you! Question: How would you feel about a No. 62 low angle plane instead of the 5 1/2" plane as a starter?
YUK! I hate the 62. Too light, dont like the blade adjustment, not enough side surface for shooting. Was never a popular plane in its day.
RobCosman.com Thanks Rob! I value your opinion and appreciate the response. Cheers!
Hi Rob, Very informative this Vid !. I have 2 questions: First, is it necessary to own a ForePlane and secondly, is this Foreplane does need a cambered Blade ? Regards.
Can you use the 3/4" shoulder plane for cleaning out dados for 3/4" stock?
Tight and shoulder blades are always slightly wider than the plane body.
Hi Rob
Je suis de Boibriand,Quebec,Canada
J’aime vraiment ce que tu fait ❤️
Je viens de regarder ta video et je me suis demandé pourquoi tu utilise pas la collection Veritas qui est canadien 🤔
J’ai pas très bien compris la marque de tes ciseaux a bois qui vient de l’ontario tu pourrais me le redire svp
Merci
Please send a catalogue of the tools you are selling like the planes and chisels or where can they be bought.
Hi David, no paper catalogs but a new website with tons of info in text and video. www.robcosman.com
Thanks Rob, this helped a lot in making decisions about which hand tools to focus on getting first.
Can someone post a link for the IBC chisels, Please
On our site robCosman.com
Dumb qiestion of the year.
Is there a way to make 'box joints' AKA 'finger joints' without power tools?
***
The trend stones got bad reviews on Amazon saying it doesn’t last and the diamond material keeps coming off?
A very good selection of tools to do most basic woodworking tasks. Well thought out and presented. Great idea about the detachable handle on the chisels. One matter though, I am not commenting on the quality of the tools; merely on their pedigree. Its a personal bias you may say. I would never buy Wood River tools. Why? Because in spite of their quality; Woodcraft makes them in China. Now, I know well that China can produce extremely high quality if its required. However; why would I give my money to a Chinese made product, when I can give an American family a paycheck. Lie-Nielsen makes fabulously high quality American made tools, and I just love their manganese and ductile iron planes. They are gorgeous. And expensive. But, besides keeping jobs at home, one buys high quality tools for a lifetime. The cost one pays is minimal in comparison to the longetivity of the tool, its performance, and the legacy one leaves to one's children's. So I buy American made high quality Lie-Nielsen tools. That is my bias. Likewise so far where brass backed tenon saws are concerned, I also go with Lie-Nielsen, not because they simply are completely manufactured in the USA, but because Lie-Nielsen brass backed tenon saws have just about the deepest cut in that manner of handsaw. Overall, a great video and presentation.
Like your thoughts on buy any thing 🙏
What do you think about quangsheng planes, the reviews say that the blades are great and the sole is dead flat
if they are similiar to the woodriver, then great!
i was comparing the prices with Lie Nielson and the wood river is pretty much the same?
Hi Rob,
thanks for the video. Why the Lie-Nielsen skew block over say the Veritas Skew rabbet? They are nearly the same price.
like it better, based on the successful Stanley 140
Where can I find a package of similar tools that won’t break the bank..?
Good luck,the only guy who could blow a project with those tools would be the sucker with the bread to buy em.
Poor folks Restore antique examples,and make their own marking gauges and granny’s tooth planes.
Always fun to watch - that 5 1/2 is a fun one to use - thanks Rob!
That block plane is very similar to a 19 knuckle by stanley inst it? Its beautiful
Did you ever try a Rali plane? If so what do you think of it?
You mentioned "trend diamond stones" where did you acquire these? Is trend the brand name?
Hi Curtis, we sell them on our site robcosman.com/collections/sharpening I first found them in the UK at a woodshow in London. Thoroughly impressed.
What’s the brand manufacturer of the shoulder plane?
Kamal Mattar WoodRiver, by WoodCraft
Thank you very much for your teaching as I always have been interested in wood working and I am fascinated by the mortise and tenon and dove tail construction.
I will be seeing more of you and a set of those hand saws will be absolutely positively part of my inventory. Where to buy in California?.
Woodcraft in Ventura.
Great video Rob. Thank you for the well explained suggestions. Cheers!
There are lots of approaches for beginners. When I teach I recommend using decent wood even for absolute beginners. Using cheap softwood can be demoralising. The same applies to tools. However, not many beginners want to outlay large amounts of money. At that stage they don’t know if they will persist, or whether they want a few power tools. They might neither have the skill to renovate second hand antiques. There are old tools on eBay that come ready to use, if you look carefully. So a newbie can set up for a few dollars each for a tenon saw, chisels, Stanley block plane and a number5. A square is absolutely essential. Again old ones are better and cheap. A small fine tooth hardpoint saw covers a lot of the work. After a year or two then start treating yourself to Robs recommendations. They aren’t expensive considering a lifetimes use.
Jim Bo Coming from a beginner it can be hard to decipher what's quality and usable on eBay. I took a couple weekend courses at a local shop and bought Paul sellers book which is loaded with great info and still struggle knowing what is worth it and how much it's worth. Maybe it's just me but the clean older stuff maybe goes for 20% less then buying new(middle of the road new) and I know what I'm getting. The major setback is I have to Pace myself when buying the better stuff and can't splurge and buy everything at once.
I'm sure alot of it is situational as I have a garage full of 1950-1970 restored power tools to supplement myself as I build my hand tool collection.
Thank you Mr.Cosman. I am a begginer in woodworking.I love hand tools, but good hand tools are just out of my budget range. Your video opened my eyes to this fact. I will stick with my " less expensive " electric tools. Once again, I thank you for your great video ! !
Sorry, I miss spelled beginner!
Danke !
Roughly, what would this entire tool set cost? Could I get this for less than 2000 US? I've been woodworking for 18 years but I'm really interested in getting away from power tools altogether
Asa Davidson about $3200
Thanks. I enjoy watching your videos.
Great video! Thanks for the recs.
It would be nice if you included links to all these tools in the description. Or is everything available at robcosman.com?
No links but at least there is a list here.
robcosman.com/products/top-10-toll-kit
Awesome video as usual, Rob. I think the new mic sounds great and I can hear you much better.
agreed! always a peeve of mine, the in & out volume & tinny sound - excellent move, +Rob Cosman!
Absolutely makes a HUGE difference. I enjoyed that much more than some of the earlier videos with the ambient noise. THANKS!
Is the shoulder plane from Woodriver?
1611KJB yes, a No. 92 Medium Shoulder Plane. robcosman.com/collections/planes/products/woodriver-shoulder-plane-medium
Surprised you didn't include a no No. 62 LA jack in the plane category. good coverage either way, helped me out on the chisels.
Holy shit, thats an FMF Corpsman patch. Awesome!
Nice apron. Great tips. Where’d you get the 10th Mountain patch?
+Rob Cosman good stuff. Thankful that there are capable folks like you who do things like these for our combat veterans. I’m a self-taught carpenter and novice woodworker. Easing off the machine whenever I could to focus more on the old ways. I will reward myself by and by with your recommended tools ea time I get over certain “benchmarks”. Great products btw. Great patch, great division, the 10th Mountain. Thank you for your “service”, sir.
sTu 3pldeuce - is Cosman a Vet or not, no one seems to know for sure - he certainly doesn’t answer any questions on the subject.
Rob, have you ever thought about tapering the blade on your saws like the lie Nielsen ones? I own a lie Nielsen tapered dovetail saw, and I find that the taper is super useful, and would love to see you incorporate it into your saws! It would be incredible to have the taper, fine teeth to start, and that heavy handle. Would definitely have to buy one :)
Rob Cosman I meant the taper as in the height of the blade from the brass back to the teeth. The taper helps you to not saw past your baseline on the backside of the stock. I didn’t think it would be so useful, but I’ve grown to really like it. Would love to try out your saw one day. Just have other expenses at the moment :)
I didn't see a big hammer for encouraging fitting of any big peg into smaller holes ?
Finesse!
Picking up mortise chisels has been creeping up higher on my list. Knowing to care about the sides for registering is great to know. Also I think you mention using the mortise gauge that you should use the width of the chisel blade to match the width of the mortise itself. Very helpful information. I will probably buy a Narex set with 4, 5, 6, 8 , 10, and 12 mm sizes. 80 bucks seems reasonable.
What are the next best starter mortise chisels that are square and I can get five to eight of them for around $100? I have seen older ones and probably have a quarter inch one buried with other old-old tools.
Alex: Do you think it is possible your Narex are a different generation than current? They look straight from pictures it is impossible to be sure.
The chisel blades of these 8112 Narex mortice chisels are correctly trapezoidal in section and have been neatly CNC machined from Chrome Manganese (CrMn) spring steel, which was developed for Narex specifically for the purpose of making edge tools. This means that Narex mortice chisels take and hold a superb edge.
The Narex 8112 mortice chisels are accurate, hard and immensely tough: serious tools and seriously good value for money.
The Ray Isles mortising chisels are trapezoidal as well so you can free them by pulling towards you when they jam in the wood. They are a very old classic design with modern steel; not horribly expensive either.
You don't really need all those sizes for furniture making, i would pick 6, 8 or 10, and 12 these three will do.
Stumpy nubs had a video about your dove tail saws, I'd like to buy a few one day
Those little router planes are known in Scotland as a "Granny's Tooth" plane
I live and work in Scotland and never heard it called that.
Thanks Rob nice video. Thought you would have included your fretsaw.
Nice Video. Thanks Rob!
No marking knife?
I usually state this is a collection of tools over $100/per, dont count the small stuff essential as it is.
Great feedback and fair review.. One tool I think it should be added in this collection is scraper card.. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us Rob.
y no smoothing plane?
Very informative, always helpful!
Tried to visit the IBC website (robcosman.com/products/ibc-bench-chisels) but my security software said the site wasn't 'private' and wouldn't let me go there. Might be something to check out...
Thanks for sharing that, well said
Great Video thanks for that ... can you tell me where they sell the wood river plane in Ontario ? Toronto if it's possible... thanks
Nicely done Rob. You audio is SOO much better! Thank you!
I use 3 planes regularly. My Stanley #5 1/2, Bedrock #4 and Stanley low angle block plane I forget the #. Japaneese chisels I feel are superior also japaneese saws far superior.
Probably 60 1/2 or 9 1/2
What sort of input did you have in the design of the plane and chisels? They look like the same design that's been around for 100 years? I'd love to know the refinements younmade
help
Well, I’m glad you asked NC, ME MYSELF, I started by putting a brand new name on the side of the tools in fancy type writing - then I ... ahh ... ummm ... stopped. Yep. That was it! Stopped right there - if it ain’t broke NC... wink wink.
So NC, how many of MY 50 Tools in MY Top TEN Tool video would you like to buy from ME? For an extra 15% I’ll sign ONE just for you!
This video was Robs way to convince his wife he needs all these tools.
I think a smaller "smoother" size bench plane really should be included in this list, especially for anyone doing anything other than house furniture, or anything planed in place (at potentially awkward angles)away from the bench. No matter what else I had in my kit, I could not do without either a #3 or a #4.
I was just raising this same objection with Matt Estlea on his "What planes do you need" vid the other day. Different focus there, as he was only speaking of essential planes, not a whole kit of all necessary tools... but my conclusion is the same. He ended with a low angle jack (#5 size, I believe the old Stanley number was a #62), and a block plane, as his vital "first purchase" recommendations. Even MORE so here, with your choice of the 5-1/2, I say you need a #3 or #4 for those common in-between tasks, where a "Jack Plane" is too big, and a Block plane is a bit too small. You CAN get by with nothing in that in-between size, but why make life hard on yourself? There's a reason the #4 is SO common on the antique market. The old-timers used that one at least as much as the #5 (the latter generally referred to as the "most versatile"). Point being, you really should have both.
Fair enough, I guess... Along those lines, would you feel any interest in doing a follow-on "Next 10" hand-tools list? (I.e., items 11 through 20 on your priority list, aka. "additional tools you'll find yourself wanting eventually"?)
I realize your whole point here is basically talking to people just getting started (and on a presumably limited budget), with the implication that once they've been at it for awhile, they'll know what further tools they need from growing experience. But it might placate guys like me who'd like to hear a compare/contrast of why some other tools considered basic by tradition, have been reduced to second-tier priority in your scheme. I mean, I take your point on the Jack vs. Smoother example. But calling the #140 skew-rabbet block a high priority was another surprise for me. I'd be interested in your thoughts on what other "also nice to have" items would come recommended immediately after that one.
I'll also try to keep reminding myself, that we're speaking here of Furniture-work specifically, not traditional house-carpentry, nor boatbuilding.
Rob I'm there with you... except to say Paul Sellers says the same thing about his 4-1/2 (which he uses for everything, apparently...)
He has a lot of pieces of flair.
he's to close to the minimum pieces of flair
Excellent!
Good video. This information lets me fill in some of the gaps in my tool chest and gives me recommendations for upgrades of my existing hand tools.
Nicely done Rob.
Another great video Rob! It's quite apparent; you are passionate about your craft and desire to pass on years of experience to others yearning to learn more. You have a personal and financial investment in the videos that are well made and put them out to everyone for FREE.
As a hobby woodworker, I value your opinion of tools regardless of whether you are a reseller or a retailer of tools you manufacture yourself. Yes, you have a bias on tools you produce and rightly so, but also highlight other manufacturers as well. Your tools receive high marks in favorite woodworking magazines. Years of experience has taught you what tools and practices get the best results in the least amount of time and effort.
I appreciate your "Top Ten List" for what it was intended to be, not the least expensive, but the most effective and "why." For myself, quality is more important than quantity. How a tool performs and feels in hand has immeasurable value. I am blessed to have a good job and can afford quality tools every once in a while. Life is busy; time in the woodshop is precious and limited.
Your videos are brutally honest and candid. While working on a project and you make a mistake as we ALL do, you show them. Mistakes aren't edited out. Instead, methods on how to make corrections are explained. It shows integrity. Thank you for all the great videos.
Where can I get your stones! Cant find online...
I found my shapton stones amazon. Prime shipping. I even found an Atoma diamond plate for flattening.
Great presentation. Very practical, experienced selection for "top" tools to invest in.
The low angle block next to the 7? what brand and model please ?
nice, thx
Carbonite Gamorrean - Veritas make an excellent one very very similar to that.
NO # 4 or # 4 1/2 ?
Adult male over 150 lbs, a 4 1/2. Same length, wider sole, wider blade, more room on the rear tote and a heavier plane. all plus's
Nice shop!
A lot of great info. Thank you,
much respect!!
hey I got a ton of old canadian pennies small and large coins old silver dimes and quarters and im from Boston im not biast against Canada silver haha
Like the EOD crab you're wearing. What officer branch were you? Awesome video! Just like all of the videos you produce.
Remember guiz. Don't learn any carpentry. It's more fun to buy the most expensive stuff and magically make cool joints and boards.
Carpentry uses hammer and nails. Furniture making uses wood joints and glue. Learn the lingo before you post.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking same thing.
Anyways, great channel.
@@sampokemppainen3041 Not even close. Also no where does he say anything about not learning the craft. It's common knowledge you can get anything done with cheap tools. Cheap tools also bring loads of frustration and waste a lot of time because they don't work well are inaccurate and are a pain to set up. Its also common knowledge that more expensive tools usually cut down the frustration considerably and in most cases make the work enjoyable.
Who makes the marking gauges?
Rob Cosman thanks for taking the time to reply. That is great to hear, but probably means they are out of my price range! Are these sold in the UK do you know? Like your videos by the way.
Excellent Video Rob!
The apron that you are wearing is awesome, I am currently active duty military (Army). I am stationed at fort Bragg, NC with the 20th Engineer Brigade which is that patch with the White Castle and red borders. #Airborne #AirAssault
every wounded Vet that comes to our workshop gives me a patch they most identify with. I get a new apron each spring and fall. Thank you for your service Isai.
RobCosman.com No thank you for the knowledge you share, it is very helpful to beginners like myself. You know what they say smart people learn from their mistakes, the wise learn from others.
Mortise chisels are unnecessary. You can cut a quality mortise just as well with a bevel edged chisel. Just ask Paul Sellers.
All very expensive tools for what they are, but I most disagree with the initial purchase of a ridiculous sharpening set up, for what that could cost you could buy a used Stanley no 4(or 5), your three basic chisels and a couple of fine tooth hard point saws,and have more than enough money to buy a Norton double sided "India" oilstone the sharpener that generations of joiners have found quite adequate for a lifetimes work (Ok you can have an old belt to make a strop with !). I remember the very few much loved tools my father used to make the the kitchen and tables in our first house (I have some of them still). I feel strongly that this array of over important tools hides the fact that they won't make you a joiner just by spending the money, what you need is ten years practice and some aptitude.
Ten years? You should spend the money on a Rob Cosman hand tools class.
CrimeVid, wow dude, you have a whole different approach than every other person that I have ever seen claim to teach others. Sharpening not that important? Really? Holy crap!!!! I have been wrong all these years? I have wasted soooo much time sharpening my tools. Who knew that sharpening wasn’t important? I wonder, how long does it take you to “Sharpen a chisel?” Or a plane iron?
Richard Blair I think you'll find that I did not suggest for one minute that sharpening was not important, what I did suggest that sharpening with the most expensive stones you can find is pointless but also pandering to an industry that has only one intention,parting the credulous from their money in large lumps. An oversharpened blade of any type will break back anyway. Leaping to the defence of a channel which is basically one long advert is laughable. Mr Cosman seems to be an excellent tradesman, that is why I watched this video, I object to the sales pitch it spoils his credibility.
CrimeVid 😂😂😂😂you’re a joke. “Overly sharpened” hilarious 😆
Richard Blair just shows you don't work wood for a living...
Thanks Rob much . :)
"Top 10 tools" proceeds to show 50 tools hahahahahahahaha thanks, great video
Hi Rob, thanks for the video.
As usual I inspect the comments and I'm actually shocked that you don't let the work of your other videos talk for itself.
I have watch many of your uploads but in each one you seem to focus on the negative comments (generally a stupid/belittling comments which is left with a argumentative reply from yourself)
Honestly I would have though you'd have the decency to let it slide and have a positive reaction to those who who actually want your interaction for the better of their skills with your knowledge.
I realise you are defending some of your products and I know this is an old video but just think about it.
Cheers,
Angus
The more you talk about tools and how to’s you start to mumble and the volume of your speech goes down. Very frustrating when trying to pay attention to instructional videos, annunciate your words please! I like your videos so please try, as you are not the only one making instructional woodworking videos, thank you.
So how much is all of this? Seriously?
right around $3k.
Why did a full bird move to Canada?
following the flock!
Whew! About $3k without many more tools needed. This isn’t a poor man’s game!
Poor is a state of mind that can be changed. Broke is a temporary condition. Where folks choose to focus their energy determines their lot.
i think Mr Cosman forgot the router plane.. Hehe.. Thats 1 of the most important plane too, how come he passed that one..
Didnt forget, just didnt include the "under $100 tools", router plane (small) is a must have.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking aah i see.. i can understand it now 👍
Is that Shaggy playing in the background??
🎶 🎵 M R B O M B A S T I C 🎵 🎶
No one should be buying new bench or jack planes today. There's so many out there for cheap to buy used. I've never paid more than $20 for a used jack plane. At the peak of the market you'd better believe I'm getting a Stanley Bedrock plane. I've paid as little as a dollar for a mint condition No. 4 too.
No one should be buying a new car today, with as many used ones as there is you should get an old clunker and be happy! Sound dumb?
@@RobCosmanWoodworking absolutely not. I have a 1966 and a 1982 truck myself.
‘Sound dumb’ did YOU say??? YOU! lololol
Paul, Are you volunteering to help those of us less experienced folks wisely choose used tools to purchase so we know we are getting a good deal and not getting taken?
@@brianworley7705 one should know what things are worth before purchasing them. Second hand buying can be a subtle business. It is very catch as catch can. There are ways of improving your odds. You can employ the law of large numbers. If you shop a lot you increase your chances of finding what you are looking for. You also educate yourself about the market as a whole. You learn what a good deal is. Persistence pays off.
Seems like alot of bias when it comes to pushing products. Maybe just me?
I make and sell tools.
ardvarkkkkk1 if that’s the case I’m a really good actor. th-cam.com/video/Fb8tVZtX1_4/w-d-xo.html
As long as his involvement in making or selling the tool is clearly stated (which it is here) then no problem. Apart from the mortice chisels I agree with all of these recommendations, personally I never bother with mortice chisels.
The thing about Rob is he's pushing actually good products that he's genuinely passionate about, not like some people who are fake as hell, where they say they use so and so a brand (while being paid) and if you go to another video they use a completely different brand
allthough I liked this video and I often use this channel as a reference, let's agree this video felt pretty much as an "infomercial".