Timber Frame Weekend Tool List

Quantity

Size/Grade

Tool or Item

Comments

1

1-1/2"

Framing Chisel

 

1

 

Carpenter's Framing Square

One with brace dimensions on the short leg and a 100ths scale is best

1

 

Chalk Line

 

1

 

Pencil

 

1

 

Razor Knife

 

1

 

Safety Glasses

You must have a minimum of safety glasses, Most prescription glasses are safety lenses, but need side shields to be true safety. If in doubt bring face shield to go over glasses.

1

 

Scratch Awl

 

1

 

Steel Tape Measure

15 or 15 foot model is best

1

 

Stick of White Chalk

 

1

Wood or Rawhide

Mallet

Avoid rubber "dead blow" hammers and rubber covered mallets.

Nice To Have Tools, But Not Necessary

 

1

1"

Corner Chisel

 

1

#10

Bench rabbet plane or a slick

Most framers use one or the other but if you have both bring them.

1

 

Block Plane

 

1

12" Sweep

Brace

12" Sweep is optimum but any brace will do.

1

1"

Double-spur auger bit (that fits the brace).

 

1

 

Ear Protection

Ear muffs are easiest to use but plugs are fine. If loud pounding bothers you be sure to bring.

1

Crosscut

Handsaw

7 point is about right

1

Rip

Handsaw

5 point is about right

It is hard to get good chisels and I recommend the socket type to the tang type. Barr Specialty Tools (www.barrtools.com) offers chisels & slicks comparable in price to the Woodcraft chisels & slick. My personal experience with Sorby chisels has not been pleasant... fine for the occasional use but seriously lacking for the rigors of everyday use. I find the Woodcraft slick to be clunky and awkward.  Antique tools are always an option, but the student should be wary of brittle steel and deep rust pits. Handsaws made prior to WWII tend to better than those you can buy today.

© 1995 Scott Carlson