Woodworking/Shop Tools
Over the course of two decades, you get to see what products have durability. If a product cannot last a year with a group of teenagers in a shop, I refuse to purchase it for my own use at home. Here is a list of products I recommend any teacher purchase for their shop. Many have great value for the money.
Hand Tools
I am a big proponent of hand tools. Safer, cheaper, and not as loud. Flexible, shatterproof rulers are a must!
Bench dogs are a game changer in the shop.Having work benches with bench dogs, and vise dogs is a great way to secure your stock and provide a safe work environment.
Heavy Duty woodworking vices are worth the investment. If you cannot afford heavy duty, Pony brand vices are a great value. Just make sure they have a vice dog, to go with the bench dog:)
Pony clamps are a must, and at varying lengths (3', 4', 6' and 8').
Pony pipe clamps are extremely durable and helpful when students are making stuff in your fab lab. Both small and large clamps.
Jorgensen quick clamps are far more durable than competitor brands and also double as a spreader.
Power Tools
If you don't have a spindle sander or a tiny belt sander, I suggest getting one for fabrication. The WEN brand is very durable at the price point. Students love pyrography! This one is very nice. I have had an array of cordless tools in my shop over the years, and Milwaukee just lasts longer than the competitors (The 18V ones that is).
154 Metal Wood Oscillating Tool Blade, Titanium Oscillating Saw Blades with Sandpaper, Quick Release Multi Tool Blades
Buy on Amazon
KAKURI Japanese Woodworking Hand Tools Set for Beginner 7 Pcs (Japanese Plane, Chisels, Saw, Hammer, Marking Gauge, Bag)
Buy on Amazon
TRUArt (Stage 2) Professional Dual Pen Woodburning Detailer 60W Tool with Digital Temperature Control and 63 Tips/p> Buy on Amazon
Fulton Cabinet Scraper Burnisher with 6 Piece Multi-Shaped Card Scraper Woodworking Set
Buy on Amazon