Ways to Care for Each Hand Tool

·        Tape Rules: The most important thing here is to keep the blade clean. Otherwise it may not cut properly. Also, watch out for water. If water seeps into the housing, it can rust the spring motor.

·        Knives: Basically, all you can do for knives is to always be sure the blades are seated correctly in the knife and closed properly before use or injury could develop. If necessary, purchase a self-retracting knife. It is safer.

·        Planes: When using a plane use the correct one. Use a bench plane to remove stock or smoothing rough surfaces. You can also use block or trimming planes for end grain, or when single handed work is required. To get the best performance from your plane tool, place cutters in bench planes so they have the bevel side down. And of course, always keep the blade sharp for best cutting.

·        Chisels: When you work with chisels, keep both your hands in the back of the cutting edge. This way you avoid injury. To your hands. Don’t forget to wear goggles when using a chisel. This prevents splitters from getting into your eyes. One thing to also remember, and unfortunately some people do it and get hurt, and that is not to leave the chisel in your pocket. You are inviting injury that way.

·        Pliers: Do not use pliers for cutting wire. That is not their purpose. Pliers are used mainly for bending metal and other material. Don’t use needle-nose pliers to bend heavy metal. This could bend the pliers and ruin them. One good thing to do with pliers is to put oil on them occasionally. This will keep them free and working correctly.

·        Hammers: Use a hammer for its intended purpose. When you use a hammer, strike flat against the surface, not at an angle.

·        Screwdrivers: Don’t use a screwdriver as a pry bar. It could bend the tip. Also make sure the tip fits securely in the hole of the screw. If it isn’t, you could damage the head on the screwdriver.

·        Snips: When you use snips, it is best to wear safety goggles. You never know when cutting metal, a piece may fly up and get into your eye. Also wear gloves when using snips so you won’t get your hands cut from handling the metal as it is being cut.