Many beginners with an interest in woodworking are concerned that they'll have to buy a whole garage full of power tools to get started. That simply isn't the case. There are really only seven woodworking tools that I would recommend any beginning woodworker strive to have on hand from the start, and most are relatively inexpensive. However, with these seven tools, a beginner can take on a considerable number of projects.
The following woodworking tools are listed in order of importance.
1. Circular Saw
Probably the most basic and versatile handheld power tool, in the hands of an experienced user, the circular saw can substitute for many other tools. While it takes some practice for most beginners to get comfortable with a circular saw, it quickly becomes a standby tool to handle a lot of cutting tasks very quickly. This should be the first of the power woodworking tools every beginning woodworker should consider.
2. Power Drill
While cordless drills are very popular and convenient, corded drills are a bit more versatile and have the power to handle a number of drilling tasks. Additionally, corded drills are variable speed, which allows the user to drill anywhere from a very slow RPM all the way up to the drill's top speed. I'd recommend a quality 3/8-inch corded version for the beginner's first drill.
3. Jigsaw
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The third tool for the beginner is the Jigsaw. A jigsaw allows the user to cut curved and circular patterns in stock. For versatility, choose an orbital-action, corded model that feels good in your hand and has an easy blade changing system.
4. Random Orbital Sander
(c) 2007 Chris Baylor licensed to About.com, Inc.
The fourth most important tool every beginner should buy is a random orbital sander. While palm sanders are less expensive and can use plain sandpaper, the random orbital version doesn't sand in patterns, but in a random motion. This will reduce any sanding marks that may appear on the stock. Be certain that your local woodworking supplier has sanding disks readily available in a number of grits to fit the model that you choose.
5. Table Saw
(c) 2007 Chris Baylor licensed to About.com, Inc.
Once you have the four aforementioned handheld power tools in your arsenal and you've had time to get comfortable with using them, its time to make your first (and most important) major tool purchase. The table saw is the heart and soul of every woodworking shop, so you want to buy the best tool you can comfortably afford. Take the time to learn which features you really want and the saw that best fits your budget and your needs.
6. Compound Miter Saw
(c) 2007 Chris Baylor licensed to About.com, Inc.
After you have chosen your perfect table saw, the next major purchase is a compound miter saw. While not as expensive as a table saw, a compound miter saw is invaluable for cutting compound angles on the ends of stock. Once you get good on a miter saw, you'll find that your circular saw spends a little more time in the drawer than it used to.
7. Router
(c) 2007 Chris Baylor licensed to About.com, Inc.
The last tool I recommend for every beginning woodworker is a quality router. While many routers available today offer two different bases (a stationary base and a plunge router base), for most beginners, a quality stationary base model will take care of quite a number of tasks, and can be mounted in a router table should you choose to invest in one down the line. Choose a model that is at least 2-HP and variable speed (as larger cutting bits should use slower speeds).
