In a video he did in Burke bars it gets almost comical as he runs around finding another and yet another use.. 😆 “and here I have my tin of tuna for lunch.. no can opener.. what do we do.. BAM we’re in”
Mr. Wadsworth, I would like to thank you and Nate. Your videos are fantastic. I am an Airline Pilot who loves construction and creating . But this week I came home from a trip to find my 8 year old son watching your Blacksmithing videos. He then told me he has always wanted to be a Blacksmith. Ever since he was 5 ! I said wow, why didn’t you tell me? He said, I didn’t think you were interested in Blacksmiths. I said , well how can I help? He said , well first, I need an Anvil ! Amazing ! The LORD WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS ! Thank You Again.
I watched half of a video of AvE's before I was disgusted by the language. Caused me to unsubscribe from the person who recommended I go there. There is no reason for profanity on RUclips.
Thank you ! Nothing upsets me more than seeing someone abuse a tool from lack of skill and knowledge and then complain when it fails them. One thing I have definitely noticed especially with young people entering the trades is lack of ability with tools. I use all makes of tools because let's be honest, every manufacturer makes better specific tools than others.
Been loyal to Dewalt for twenty years due to the horsepower of their polishers.... I beat them pretty hard and they have Impressed me as being basically bulletproof... Likewise their saws, drills, and bench style woodworking tools have taken My abuse with little or no problems... Thanks Scott and Nate for another great opportunity to interact with you!
Would it be possible to put the number of the episode in the front of the name in the podcast feed? That way I have the episodes all in chronological order when I listen to them on the go.
You guys continue to produce such AWESOME content. I am a carpenter and have a serious passion, some may day it’s a problem, for tools. It sounds like have yet another “common ground” in that I am a BIG fan of Makita. I own and use lots of Makita tools and have yet to be disappointed regardless of how hard I use them. With that said, I will say that Milwaukee makes the best sawzall in my opinion. Please keep up the awesomeness. You guys are rockin it and I look forward to every episode from either channel. Btw, the podcasts are a big thumbs up with me. The informal format is great. Thanks very much. Scott Curtis Custom Carpentry Mt. Wolf PA
These podcasts are just awesome. In fact, your whole social media presence is just top notch. Combination of substantial, accessible, genuine content expertise ... and equally impressive commitment to making the "package" serve the audience. That is, all of the production stuff that you guys (mostly Nate, I assume) do "works." It's entirely invisible, serving the story instead of becoming part of the story.
All my battery tools are Dewalt as that's the ecosystem I originally bought into when it was all 18V Nicads. For me it turned out to be a good decision as unlike most tool manufacturers when Li-Ions came on the scene Dewalt were one of the few to offer a Lithium option for their previous generation of tools (Nano batteries), meaning I'm still able to use all the battery tools I've had for 20~ years, but now with Lithium quality runtimes. I also now have a couple of adaptors to the newer style 'XR' Li-Ion battery so can buy newer tools and use their newer battery systems (including Flexvolt) with my old NiCad kit. I'm pretty sure I couldn't be doing this if I'd (by chance) gone with any other manufacturer. --- Conversely (and mostly by a deliberate choice not to be blindly brand-loyal to a single company), nearly all my wired kit is Makita... Grinders of various sizes, circular saws (including one with a 14" blade), planers, sanders, wired recip saw, etc. ...And nearly all my air nailguns, staplers, etc. are Bostitch.
Hey yall, big fan here. I’ve watched every episode of Essential Craftsman. I’ve learned a ton. I’m a carpenter and a welder as well. I believe the best use of a welders cap is to use the bill to cover whichever ear is exposed to sparks, spatter, slag etc. Laying on your side is the most common time to turn it one way or the other. Thank y’all for everything you’ve done.
I have a collection of "older" Porter-Cable and I share your sentiments completely. P-C was once a top-notch solid brand. When the combining of Black and Decker, DeWalt, and Porter-Cable happened they began marketing DeWalt as their flagship brand and P-C was relegated to the consumer/value brand. Today I consider P-C at a similar level to Ryobi, Craftsman, Harbor Fright, or the big box store brands (Husky or Kobalt). Truly a squandering of brand equity. It takes years to build and maintain and only one purchase experience to permanently poison.
Ryobi is not bad for the cost. You need something to eliminate manual processes and once you have one tool it is only good sense to buy other with the same battery pack. Never had a problem with the tool but when it is time to replace batteries; who has the best deal. So far that has been Ryobi they draw me back with lithium ion batteries at a great price and then throw in an impact or a saw. My brother who has money to burn always buys DeWalt cause all his neighbors have DeWalt. He has made some complaints about them and he only uses them on the weekends for honey do's.
So just a comment on the Podcast format... It's doesn't matter what the format is RUclips , Cassettes, 8 tracks, its the quality of the knowledge you guys bounce off each other ! Thanks for the great videos !
I have come to like DeWalt a lot and do tend to shop DeWalt first but I’m certainly not too proud to use/buy any brand at all if it presents a good value and gets the job done. Another great episode. Keep up the good work!
I love these podcasts even sat in my van thousands of miles away in the uk I feel almost part of this conversation, great work guys what a foundation to build from 👍🏼👍🏼
I have an old school Makita saw it's a beast , very heavy but accurate and powerful , however I picked up a more ergonomic Craftsman about 5 or 6 years ago it is powerful , accurate and does everything I ask it to do. lightweight and powerful . At 63 years old my hardcore framing days are gone , so the right tool for your situation is what works for you . Love this channel guys keep after it.
Hey guys, just wanted to say I really appreciate your vlogs and podcasts, the podcasts are great to listen to while working away. Your vlogs showed me that a vlog doesn't have to be full of splash and dash to be good, and inspired me to start uploading content of my own on a more regular basis.
Well done! Another good production. The podcasts are weaving very well with the full blown videos. I also suspect that it may, once your days slow down just a bit, allow time to address points, questions or comments that have come from a loyal fan much smarter than I. As to brand loyalty, my grandfather and my uncle introduced me to quality trucks, saws, drills, welders, tractors and yes, that first 9.6v Makita drill, and gave me my first lessons on loyalty in regard to equipment. The first tools I bought for myself as an adult 20+ years ago, are only shadows of themselves now. To quote AvE, I guess that's all thanks to "value engineering". Today, having retired from a rewarding, though very taxing unrelated profession, I still look to those wiser than I for guidance. Papa has been gone for almost 25 years, but my uncle, now retired from the trades, puts his tools and well earned titanium bone replacements to work on his homes and equipment. Sometimes when I ask his opinion on tools and work, I think he gets nostalgic and gives me smart remarks for my antics from nearly 40 years prior. Ha! How wonderful those days were! I also look to people like you and AvE, as well as a few others to help me ask and answer the questions necessary to make the best choices for *me* in my current situation. Oddly enough, my wife actually helped decide my cordless lineup, because with that first drill/driver combo, I became what I call "battery committed". Even though I have a bit of experience, I'm just a disabled "home-gamer" now and I try to act accordingly. Thanks for another video. I think it is wonderful that you two get to share this endeavor together, and we are the beneficiaries along for the ride. Best wishes! PS. If you have coffee cans full of nails that need to be straightened, I'll give you my address, Papa said I was the best damned nail straightener there is. Hahaha. Damn, I miss that man.
I am a physician, which has very little in common with the construction trades, but I admire skilled craftsmen of all the trades. I love your videos and your family values and work ethics. Please keep up the great work. By the way, I’m a Milwaukee guy and would definitely stay with that brand if I made my living in the trades. Thanks again guys.
Skil Boar Gun 1979 was an amazing high torque long battery life tool. I drove hundreds of 3" screws and drilled over 40-50 1" holes with a spade bit for wiring and still had battery left. When the batteries finally went bad after about 14 years I sadly had to move on. I went to a Makita 9.6V drill/screwdriver but the power was not there in 9.6v to drill the holes. It was much lighter and worked for a long time but moved up to Ridgid 18V platform for the Lifetime battery replacement and stronger batteries. Unfortunately, it was back to a heavy tool. You are right about choosing a consistent platform that fits your budget, your needs and the tools you use. Investment in batteries now keeps me in the Ridgid platform and the tool are adequate for the work that I do now.
I kind of fell into being "loyal" to Makita. I've tried a couple others. I didn't have any luck with Rigid (I've heard good things, but my experience is poor). Ultimately, I ended up with enough cordless Makita's that it's just cost effective to stay in the same battery type. Sort of like being loyal to the same razor because the blades fit the handle.
I think Makita and Hilti are the only two brands that are NOT owned by some major corporation. I'm a Makita fan boy, and I will tell anyone that is wanting to spend the $$$ on tools to buy Makita. Milwaukee has really tried to catch up on the amount of tools offered, but they're still behind for a few tools. Milwaukees 12v line is well thought out though. One of the best selling points for Makita (I think) is that if you are a professional and you need to get some of the bigger (36v or 18vx2) tools then with Makita it's the same battery, you just need two of them. You can buy a 1 battery cordless grinder, but they also have a 2 battery grinder available... plus they offer a FULL SIZE portaband that runs on one 18v battery. Unless Milwaukee has added that you have to go to their 28v line to get a full size portaband. That's a whole separate set of batteries and another charger. Every brand has a drill and impact, but the grinder and portaband are SUPER handy cordless tools when you're needing to use them all of the time. Plus, the AvE tear downs of Makita tools typically show that they make a good to great product. I haven't seen another brand besides Makita make a battery power coffee maker either. That's a very important tool on any jobsite :D
@@renof2505 Funny, I've had the same experience with Rigid, especially with the triggers. Each tool I've had has been crap but all my Makita's have been good. These days, tools aren't built to last, they need us to keep buying new ones.
Like you I am a man of faith. I find that God shares every oncern we have. So a few years go I withdrew from the pickup truck wars. And the vchainsaw wars. So, whatever God provides I use and I do it with gratitude. My introduction to cordless drills and drywall screws came at the same time. I got the bits and screws and little tools and used them with my old, reliable Black & Decker corded drill. (1/2" chuck, variable speed and reversible...) and with the passage of time I never found better among the corded drills. I have enjoyed the advent of little tools and several kinds of screws.
This being on spotify and realising today made my life that bit more enjoyable. Appreciate what you guys are doing all the way over here in Boston, UK.
Great stuff S&N! Love the podcasts! I think you struck a nerve with this one cuz there’s some rather lengthy comments. Whenever possible, always try to buy tools made or at least assembled in YOUR country so you can help support your local countryman. 🤜🤛
I have the Dewalt flex volt 7.25-inch Circular saw if you get a chance try it out. I am not a professional but it has never had issues for me and honestly, I find it cuts better than my corded saw using the same blade. Also being a taller guy at around 6'7" corded tools have always been a bit of a pain as the cords just get in my way.
I never thought that i would find a saw that could compete with a HD77\Mag77 but the Dewalt DCS577 worm drive style saw is incredible. Given the cost, I was hesitant to purchase, but I have not looked back. Tons of power, reasonably light, accurate, rafter hook built in and the batteries last really well. Plus if you have other Dewalt 60V or 20V batteries- you can use its battery in those other tools. Like anything, there is a time and place for any tool: moving around and not near a plug the Dewalt is the way to go; on the ground near a plug cutting all day, then a MAg77 is great.
Absolutely rooting for y’all. You are far from an underdog yet still up and coming. So grateful for all that EC is and represents. May you exceed your WILDEST dreams!
I think one of the most invaluable tools I own now is my smartphone camera, because if I need to I can take a picture and show it to somebody who knows what I need or what I need to do.
Love the content and the discussion. Battery interchange-ability is the driver of my fleet of cordless tools... although there is a little of the rainbow nest... I find the usefulness of the tool is directly related to the performance of the battery system, including time to re-charge. good stuff!
The cordless tool battery conspiracy is a crime that should be addressed by legislation. Consumers are getting screwed there unbelievably. But at the same time I can't blame companies doing it as long as they're getting away with it. Robbery is basically legal and I've never met a corporation that wasn't totally focused on profits. Could you imagine if the same situation existed in electrical receptacles as it is with cordless tool batteries? Can't plug that in there, that outlet is only good for LG products. Yeah right.
@@1pcfred If adapters were available for batteries to tools would really help. Either that or standardize the battery connections similar to C, D, AAA, or 9 Volt. Having to have specific chargers for batteries is a bummer and aggravation that is not needed.
@@royreynolds108 there are tools today that communicate with their battery packs. What they talk about I could not tell you. But the fact that they are talking complicates matters. It isn't just current at a voltage these days. And if you want to assume nefarious intent on the part of manufacturers I will not argue with you. The fact that microcontrollers cost pennies now is being used against us. For a very small initial investment a manufacturer can easily lock you into their products. For your own good, of course. Cha-ching!
Hey there, really enjoying both channels guys, great job. I carry both a cordless & corded circular saws.. I find cordless is great if I need to rip a few sheets or do some quick cuts but a big battery is essential. Corded for all other constant or repetitive work. Thanks for all the tips & info! James from Ireland
i love these guys. please please please consider a longer format - there's much wisdom and lessons you can and do impart to your audience and I welcome ah hour-long (or longer!!!) format. food for thought. keep up the good work!!!
I’ve been following your Channel from the start. I’ve always wondered.... hmmm... and the BYU-Hawaii comment gave it away. You both are like so many great people I know 👍
Love the podcast!!!! I’ve been wanting this for some time. Been following this channel since he built the shed and just love the channel!! Milwaukee Packouts are amazing (best storage on the market by far) but I’ve been a dewalt guy for a while just because of battery interchangeability but will probably be going to Milwaukee just because of the packouts, crazy I know but I feel as though they care about craftsman and the customer service is amazing!!! Oh and we will never get tired of hearing from Phil the Plumber..... NEVER!! Lol
mhamby2009 we thought the same way. The packout system is awesome! BUT, they don’t yet have good options for pull out drawer units. And they are a bit wider than the DeWalt ones and have some lost space on the corners.
Yeah that’s the biggest down side.... I stacking everything gets a lil old. I’ve learned to keep my quickest grab tools on the top, everything has a downside lol
Love watching your videos! Keep it up. You just keep getting better at it. I am a carpenter in Roseburg and started watching you before I knew you were local...crazy word
My first impact drill was a ryobi. That impact built massive buildings in the NE and did everything works just like the new ones did, just needed an extra battery or two. Once the technology is there they are all the same and it's up to the user.
Great chat. I believe modular storage is really important for productivity. I also don’t mind having a battery salad and having many tools of every color. I have basics in most platforms but each color has some real gems. One stackable deep box with chargers and batteries of every color. Done, best of six worlds. 80% of my work doesn’t even require a battery change but it’s not hard to do regardless.
I'm hoping this is the right video. Big fan of the original channel and was catching up on the podcasts today on the plane. I was real excited to hear about the Bailey hammers. Been looking at them for some time and the EC factor might tip the scales on buying one. Still not sure if I would want to use it or frame it as it's so beautiful! I think Brent is a great blacksmith, him and Scott are the only two I regularly watch. I think if Scott narrated for Brent it would be the perfect combo because Brent doesn't talk enough! Great discussion.
My son and I are binge watching your channel to try to get caught up. I'm so glad we found you. What year did you attend BYU Hawaii, I was there 93' & 94'? Thanks for all your hard work, we really appreciate your efforts in helping us to understand this new trade (construction) that we are entering in. We send out our first bid tomorrow, and your videos have been invaluable! If you're ever in the Star Valley area of Wyoming, stop in and I'll buy you a steak!
I have the newer Porter Cable cordless set. Overall, it does the job, as a homeowner that's constantly working and fixing things. I would love to step up to Milwaukee, but right now PC is what I have, and after 3 years they all still work just fine
I've owned any number of different brands of cordless tools over the years; like you, I grab whatever looks simplest and will do the job. Once you commit to a battery platform, of course, there's some common sense to continuing to buy compatible tools. Most of mine are Makita at the moment, as it happens, but I've had lots of Ryobi tools as well. A simple thing I liked about the Ryobi drills and drivers is that they have two bit holders molded into the bottom of the tool. I've never used another tool, regardless of cost or brand, that has two bit holders. The older DeWalt drills had a single one, I guess. I like the Makita line immensely, but I miss that simple convenience from my cheapo Ryobi driver.
Well said... it is too easy to entangle your identity with a product and your fishing lure analogy is spot on - which is what the marketing people want. I prayed to the Snapon gods until I realized that I did not break very often even cheap sockets or wrenches. Beautifully made and nice in the hand but the ROI is a killer. Harley is perhaps the ultimate - it is amazing how among a certain crowd of supposed 'rugged individualist' you can become an instant social pariah if you even look at another - and probably way superior - bike. There are some brands that still deserve I think my money - until the day the value engineer infiltrate.. My list would be Visegrips, Sawsall, Stihl chainsaws and Skilsaw for gear saws (I await Scott's review on the latest). Love your podcast format.
In the NiCad era, Dewalt was king of the cordless drill. My business partner had a drill that we just couldn't kill. When the batteries finally gave up the ghost (and we got tired of taping the batteries in place with electrical tape), we tried yellow, red and orange tools and they were fine, but we've had the best luck with Makita in terms of battery life and tool toughness. I have the little rinky-ding reciprocating saw that isn't good for much other than PVC pipe, but all the other tools are pretty skookum.
Been using Dewalt since back in the early 90's, replaced several along the way but always got my money worth out of them. I remember at first the Yellow Color made me wait a little on buying it, but thought at the time was one of the best you could get in a cordless drill. Been looking for what to go with now, and been looking at the Makita and brought the little 12V set of Drill and Driver because they where small and would fit in my box rather than having to carry another bag or case. So far been very happy with them, so may be going to the 18v Makita line for the more powerful cordless tools to replace my aging Dewalts. Had a Old corded Makita Sawzal that that I got guess in the late 80's it always did great the 10 or more years I used it till someone decided they wanted it. By then I had 24V Dewalt which worked great other than the Batteries where expensive to replace and did not seem to last very long. Then I dropped it and it split into right after I had just brought 2 new batteries. I dropped that Makita a number of times and it just kept right on going. Makita being a independent company makes me even more interested in them. One thing that really bothers me is how most all the different Brands that I have used over the past 40+ years in Electronic Parts, Electrical Parts and Pro Audio equipment have been swallowed up by Big Corporations that either destroy the Brand in one way.
I remember the Makita 9.6V cordless drill in the early 80s and they certainly popularized the use but Black & Decker invented cordless tools in 1961. It usually does take some time before things really catch on. It's usually about a half a generation too. So quite some time in how most of us perceive time. Which is why it is so often said that things happen, "ahead of their time". Because they do.
Mixing and matching myself. Makita corless drill, impact driver, 36v saw. Bosch corded jig saw. My old cordless dewalts are doing fine doing duty at home. Skil 77 worm drive, for sure.. whenever I get the chance! For me, a lot of it is about what feels good in my hand. Like choosing a guitar.
Thanks guys! Interesting as ever. As an Australian pretty passionate about unions and collective cooperation in the blue collar world, I'd be really interested to hear your thoughts on that end of the construction business. All the best, Cam
Great discussion. Cordless tools have their place, but you could never keep up to a good framing crew without a corded saw. Hope you keep the pod casts coming, thanks.
I would love to see a before and after with EC talking about Festool, and then playing with their CXS drill for a bit. Because when I tool company puts all their efforts into the practicality of a tool, and making every bit of it higher grade than the next guy's, you end up with a $400 subcompact drill/driver. I'm a cabinet guy by trade. And I've used every drill driver from Milwaukee to Hilti. And the Festool CXS is hands down the best in the business for cabinet installers. The control you have over trigger is unmatched. But I went through a phase of being very much like EC and scoffing at the price point of Festool. I now have a trailer full of just about their entire lineup. It was a humbling experience to shed my cynicism about high priced tools, and then exciting to see what can actually be done when you aren't trying to make tools in a "prosumer" big box store competitive price point.
Yeah, I like Bosch a lot, too, but when I tried to buy some spade bits they are all (as in every single brand at two home improvement stores and, as far as I can tell, on the internet) made in China. BOO AND HISS.
ryobi is owned by techtronics industries or TTI wich owns milwaukee, im a dewalt fan but i love my skilsaw hd77 aluminium casing because its THE saw that is durable always precise and square. I like vaughan hammers . i think every brands and colours are great but some company are specialised in one specific tool like skilsaw ,vaughan hammers,ramset,klein and knipex.
I'm just getting into woodworking (well, I'm finally acting on it...). I find myself becoming a loyal Dewalt buyer (miter saw, reciprocating saw, orbital sander, hell even my safety glasses). They're solid and haven't disappointed. My circular saw is a Milwaukee, and I know that many carpenters/contractors/electricians/builders/etc. are die hard Milwaukee fans. Does it matter? Probably not very much. But... now that tools are going cordless, it makes SO much sense to get tools on one battery system. So, I will likely continue with Dewalt for any future purchases of cordless tools. Of course, I need to know how to use them well. That makes the biggest difference.
I love makita as well. 90% of my miter saws are makita. If you are thinking of changing cordless platforms, I would lean towards Milwaukee. They have tourqe and power that you wouldn't believe. I have invested heavily in their line, and have been happy since. I've been in the trades a long time and it took me a while to figure out that a carpenter can run a milwaukee tool just as well as an electrician or plumber. The m18 and m12 line are impressive. My jobsite buddies have makita, and when I run them, they feel weak compared to the Milwaukee. Just my 2 cents. Love that I found more EC. Keep them coming!
I am but a rank amateur when it comes to the manipulation of organic carbon-foam but the Ryobi 9 piece kit has been a godsend for all my silly weekend warrior projects. The battery circ saw seems like a goofy little fella but it's just dandy for doing stuff like cutting up pallets for raised beds and the leaf blower is just fine for doing my relatively small front garden. My biggest complaint is that you get only two batteries, and the 2.5 Ah is really only good for the ancillary tools (radio/torch/*hot glue gun) but the 4 Ah is pretty good for general use.
I agree. I LOVE Ryobi ONE+ items. I get why blue collar pros wouldn’t commit to them, but as a regular guy...they have been more than sufficient for me.
@@inyaface07 I owned a Ryobi compound miter saw for 8-10 yrs before I learned it wasn’t the ‘cool’ brand to have. I worked with it professionally and it functioned just fine. Form follows function for me. 🤜🤛
I so identified with much of this discussion on brand loyalty. Twenty years ago (in my early forty’s) at a trade show, I vented my concerns about the “ray gun look” of Hitachi power tools to their sales rep. He told me bluntly that the weren’t trying too sell them to “old guys” like me. I’d been an aged user of Hitachi routers in my cabinet shop until then. I’ve used nothing but Makita routers since. I tell a lie. I did use purchase a Portacable once. It now collects dust at the back of the shelf behind my four Makita’s. I have four brands of planes in my kit. Not one Lie-Neilson.
I like to ask "Is this is a product to sell, or a tool to work" I see a lot of the former and not a lot of a ladder. I really enjoy these chats! Thanks for sharing! Great chat. You should consider calling up AvE and doing this again! Bosch, Hilti, Makita are still independent Milwaukee and Ryobi are owned by Techtronics HK Dewalt, Porter Cable, Craftsman, are owned by stanley black and decker Skil is Chevron The sell out brands are what AvE calls "zombie" brands. As in the brand is dead but it looks like it's still alive.
I play guitar and with music gear like amps, pedals, guitars, etc there are many brands and types. No musician get all of the same brand pedals for example. We pick and choose the things that work for the application and how it interacts with the other gear. It takes a mismatch of stuff to make a unique character and sound. I look at tools the same way, I always choose function over form. Rare is the case that any one set or brand no matter how big or small fits all the needs of the prescribed duty but when you do find a good combination it's golden, :)
I was completely against a cordless skill saw boss bought the dewalt 60v saw and i am blown away runs all day on intermittent use and 2 batteries keep up with anything you can throw at it never thought it would happen but i am a fan!
More important to me is if a particular brand has a specific tool that I know I’m going to need a lot in the near future. Case in point I needed a battery operated grinder, vacuum and oscillating saw for a large (4 month) project just as my impact driver was starting to wear out. So now I have a fleet of red instead of orange. Battery interchangeability is important to me. As well as specialty tool availability.
I have a small battery circular saw. it is great for a few cut maybe more, but if I am going to be sawing all day wouldn't hesitate to pull out my skil saw. It come down to what is the easiest and quickest way to get the job done.
👍👍👍👍Any of my old ancient corded tools that are left say black and decker professional. Never tried Makita. Owned and or used early skills 12v, Milwaukee, ryobi and Dewalt. Ryobi dont survive on a service truck but fine for spare set at home, bought a set for my daughter. The 18v dewalts I beat the crap out of on my truck and was truly amazed. The 24v just dont seem as heavy duty.. I think they all have a good run and then someone takes over. Kinda stinks that ya get tied to them with the battery platform then they change it.... Now I gotta buy adapters or pick up all new tools LOL....
A few years ago I taught construction Boot Camp for various unions that introduced newbees to construction. after completion students could be on a priority list to become apprentices/ I used to tell them to buy a used set of tool bags and a few well used tools so other workers would think they had some experience then after a couple weeks on the jpb go buy some new tools. It impresses the boss that you are buying more tools. . Like you buying a new helmet and rod holster to be THE welder.
he hit the nail on the head.. i have about 60 m18 milwaukee tools and 20 or so m12 tools and the best think i can say about em is that they all have practical features... reason i have so much from milwaukee is the interchangeability of the batteries.. them things are expensive and i like that all my tools use the same thing..
The funny thing is when you pop them battery packs open all cordless tools do use the same batteries. 18650 li-ons Funny how they're not all interchangeable between tool brands though. A shame that! Milwaukee really sees you coming with battery packs too. They're like $100 a pop! Cha-ching.
I use mostly makita tools and they have worked fine for me for years along my skill 77 and Milwaukee seawall. The biggest difference in the new tools vs old is clearly there more powerful and reliable, but what we lost is the simple serviceability of our tools nowadays.
you pay $200 for a drill/driver combo !!!!!!!!!!!! Here in New Zealand a month or two back I bought a DeWalt set cost $600 nzd you guy's are so lucky Keep up the good work I watch all your video's and enjoy them immensely Cheers Rod in NZ
Brand loyalty does make sense on cordless power tools as the battery line comes to play. I personally use Kobalt, they have always gotten the job at hand done and their battery platform is pretty cheap. My hand tools are a hodge podge of brands but they all work together like my Husky ½" drive ratchet works with my Tekton ½" drive sockets.
I've heard some current executive over at DeWalt has not really been steering the brand in a good direction lately. They had a good man on the job but he jumped ship to Milwaukee. It isn't companies that run things but rather individuals within companies. So logos do not make anything any better.
I've used all different brands of power tools. Had good and bad luck. Worst was 15 years ago bought a Bosch resipicating saw.....junk. best is a old skil battery impact (like today's M12 by Milwaukee) thing just wont die.
One thing the Skilsaw worm drive has that most others don't have is a left side blade. Its seems you have to practically special order one from any other brand. Being right handed, it explains my disgust with most circular saw usage. THAT would explain a loyalty I would have. If I can get good reasonable charge time and good performance DOING the work, I will almost use ANY cordless IF its lightweight and usable for long periods without spending time worrying if my tool will make it to the end of the job. Brand name is NOT one of my criterion for purchase. I DO look at the price tag and I DO compare specs between brands and I DO look into what others think of the product NOT the brand.
I think I’m in agreement with you about ‘brand’. I will NOT buy a certain brand bcz it happens to be the ‘flavor-of-the-month’ with tradesman. I don’t care what is the ‘in’ brand to have. I’m a, form-follows-function, kind of person. I owned a Ryobi compound mitre saw for probably 8-10 years before I even knew that it wasn’t a cool brand to have. Function is all I cared about. I think if you have an arsenal of cordless tools, some consideration has to be given to brand bcz of battery interchangeability. The other variable that DOES matter to me is, where the tool is made. I love to be able to buy a tool that is made in my country (provided it’s functional). I think everyone should try to support their homeland. 🤜🤛
The blade is usually on the right hand side so you don't get sprayed with sawdust cutting right handed. I'm left handed and when I use a right handed saw I use it right handed. Because I got tired of eating sawdust. I do have a couple lefty saws now but they just feel weird for me to use left handed.
I think there's an undeniable benefit to having a common battery system with your company, co-workers, friends, and family. It's like telling my parents that they can buy any smart phone they want, as long as it's the same software that I use. Otherwise, I'm not helping them figure it out. It's the nature of the beast to get tracked into the different battery systems. Corded, air, and hand tools are much more open because their power sources are pretty much universal and you can pick and choose what you like and work best with much more. As a mechanic, I'd say always start with the big box store brands because they won't cost you too much out of the gate, but to upgrade to more 'pro' grade tools as they wear out or break. I'd say pick a brand for your bread and butter daily use tools as you upgrade, but be open to whatever your 'other' truck is because they might have a particular tool set or special tool that your main brand doesn't have which could make your life easier. And of course remember the first commandment of buying tools: thou shalt not finance off the tool truck, especially if you intend on sticking around for a while.
Here in Otago New Zealand it's the same around farm tractors. Down south its red county which is Case ih. Come up a little it's Blue Ford. Go up to Canterbury it's John Deere. All these areas are staunchly those brands for generations.
I love the new format and just wanted to comment that tool bags are as important as any single tool. They will go far to making a potential new hire look professional and productive, but kinda in a reverse sort of way. I think it’s funny that I intentionally never EVER hire a new guy with a brand new set of bags.
Hello EC have you ever considered making a video or podcast regarding ambition? I feel as if I'm the only one on my crew that cares what gets done, how efficiently it gets done, or whether or not our business is going to be successful. I keep thinking that surely there are people out there whose dream is to do carpenter work. I cant help but feel like I'm working around zombies. Do you have any tips on how to acquire quality, driven people, as well as inspire the people I currently work around? I have goals of running my own crew, but as of right now it seems as if the older carpenters have it made up in their mind that I'm too young to teach them anything, and shoot down any conversation that isn't negativity driven. Thanks!
That could be called one of the age-old mystery’s. It is tough to teach old dogs new tricks. Motivation however is almost always driven by a single person, in regards to a ‘crew’ of people working on something. Whoever it is that everyone generally considers the leader, is the one that will set the pace for the ‘followers‘. A bad leader is like a cancer that will invariably infect the whole. Taking over leadership is tricky. You’ve got to endear the others to you with your actions. Also show interest in their ideas and even try to implement them sometimes. Usually this will mean you’ll have to work harder by helping them with their tasks, without seeking credit. But, not to worry. It won’t go unnoticed. It will take some time but when the time is right, everyone knows who is helping them be successful. 🤜🤛
@@psidvicious amen. I work nonstop at it and read stacks and stacks of books on becoming an effective leader but just seems like im spinning my wheels sometimes. However I know there will be a breakthrough with persistence. 🤘💪
@@andrewwilliford8165 It could be helpful to think ahead a cpl steps as well. Not just how you can become an effective leader but how you would choose someone to lead a crew[s] for you in the future. 🤜🤛
My photography prof told us that people will ask “what kind of camera do you have?”, when viewing your photograph. On the other hand, no one asks a chef “what kind of pots do you use?” , after consuming a fine meal.
People are often interested in what cutlery chefs use. And on the higher levels what pots you use do matter too. Le Creuset is some top notch stuff. I got a $450 dutch oven that's a life changer.
Milwaukee are patent trolls. They patented using lithium ion batteries with tools and the patent office actually let them do it. Not that Milwaukee invented lithium ion batteries or cordless tools. Or anything really. They were just the first assholes bold enough to get the bright idea to patent an obvious idea.
I love Milwaukee tools cause they are well made and I just love it when the tool preform really well And I have lots of fun using it to that is a big part of it for me It’s also important that the tool is agronomic and feel good in your hand while your using it day in day out
I feel badly for you US guys. We have had Robertson screws for so long. I always had to grit my teeth when I did any work down there and had to use Philips screws. The Torx style have made them all a little old-school, but the square drive has been great for a long time.
Just goes to show Scott pays way more attention to the work at hand than the tool or especially the color of the tool in his hand. Personally, I have brand loyalties in cordless and corded tools but far less loyalty in anything else. There's definitely a list of about 20+ tools I'm brand loyal over because I believe I have found the best there is and won't compromise ever again. But with those as exceptions, I buy what's available locally, and what meets the value I need it to based on the intensity and frequency of the work it must do. Price is third place to those factors. On my every day carry category tools I treat money as virtually no object though, I buy only the best for the tools I use nonstop. But tools I pick up once a year and don't do extreme work with I usually will buy at Harbor Freight. Cost benefit analysis happens with everything but with the core daily use tools cost is virtually always outweighed by benefit.
My tool collection, like Scott’s, is by and large from the corded era. Unlike Scott, I’m around Nate’s age and the trade that feeds my family is digital. That means I use the tools I grew up using around the house for meat-space trade work only when I know my personal sense of allowable tolerance and externalities will offset what I lose by not contracting out. My experience talking online with trade folk around my age is they can’t imagine how I get any work done without all the same brand-because they’ve never worked in a scenario where EVERY brand share a common power source: 110/120VAC at 60Hz!
EC gets plenty excited over the Burke Bar.
ac has a burke bar
russell scara A Burke Bar that can move shipping containers!
Fanboy 😂
In a video he did in Burke bars it gets almost comical as he runs around finding another and yet another use.. 😆 “and here I have my tin of tuna for lunch.. no can opener.. what do we do.. BAM we’re in”
russell scara AC recently broke his Burke bar, and then welded it back together.
Mr. Wadsworth, I would like to thank you and Nate. Your videos are fantastic. I am an Airline Pilot who loves construction and creating . But this week I came home from a trip to find my 8 year old son watching your Blacksmithing videos. He then told me he has always wanted to be a Blacksmith. Ever since he was 5 ! I said wow, why didn’t you tell me? He said, I didn’t think you were interested in Blacksmiths. I said , well how can I help? He said , well first, I need an Anvil ! Amazing ! The LORD WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS ! Thank You Again.
It's like listening to a family-friendly AvE and i totally agree on both of you
“Guy wouldn’t say shit if he’s mouth was full of it” 😂
I watched half of a video of AvE's before I was disgusted by the language. Caused me to unsubscribe from the person who recommended I go there. There is no reason for profanity on RUclips.
@@teddahrable there is no reason for the lack of profanity either
@@teddahrable profanity is how people talk dude. Fuck off with your pious bullshit over there.
There is a saying “All the gear, but no idea”
4:22 you are exactly right about the fishing lures
Haha, I thought that was really good too.
Thank you ! Nothing upsets me more than seeing someone abuse a tool from lack of skill and knowledge and then complain when it fails them. One thing I have definitely noticed especially with young people entering the trades is lack of ability with tools. I use all makes of tools because let's be honest, every manufacturer makes better specific tools than others.
6:46 Rubber padding does have it's use, such as providing some grip for when you need to set it down on a steel roof.
Been loyal to Dewalt for twenty years due to the horsepower of their polishers.... I beat them pretty hard and they have
Impressed me as being basically bulletproof... Likewise their saws, drills, and bench style woodworking tools have taken
My abuse with little or no problems... Thanks Scott and Nate for another great opportunity to interact with you!
Would it be possible to put the number of the episode in the front of the name in the podcast feed? That way I have the episodes all in chronological order when I listen to them on the go.
You guys continue to produce such AWESOME content.
I am a carpenter and have a serious passion, some may day it’s a problem, for tools.
It sounds like have yet another “common ground” in that I am a BIG fan of Makita. I own and use lots of Makita tools and have yet to be disappointed regardless of how hard I use them.
With that said, I will say that Milwaukee makes the best sawzall in my opinion.
Please keep up the awesomeness. You guys are rockin it and I look forward to every episode from either channel. Btw, the podcasts are a big thumbs up with me. The informal format is great.
Thanks very much.
Scott
Curtis Custom Carpentry
Mt. Wolf PA
These podcasts are just awesome. In fact, your whole social media presence is just top notch. Combination of substantial, accessible, genuine content expertise ... and equally impressive commitment to making the "package" serve the audience. That is, all of the production stuff that you guys (mostly Nate, I assume) do "works." It's entirely invisible, serving the story instead of becoming part of the story.
All my battery tools are Dewalt as that's the ecosystem I originally bought into when it was all 18V Nicads.
For me it turned out to be a good decision as unlike most tool manufacturers when Li-Ions came on the scene Dewalt were one of the few to offer a Lithium option for their previous generation of tools (Nano batteries), meaning I'm still able to use all the battery tools I've had for 20~ years, but now with Lithium quality runtimes.
I also now have a couple of adaptors to the newer style 'XR' Li-Ion battery so can buy newer tools and use their newer battery systems (including Flexvolt) with my old NiCad kit.
I'm pretty sure I couldn't be doing this if I'd (by chance) gone with any other manufacturer.
---
Conversely (and mostly by a deliberate choice not to be blindly brand-loyal to a single company), nearly all my wired kit is Makita... Grinders of various sizes, circular saws (including one with a 14" blade), planers, sanders, wired recip saw, etc.
...And nearly all my air nailguns, staplers, etc. are Bostitch.
This is easily my favorite podcast, i could listen to you guys for hours. Keep it up!
Hey yall, big fan here. I’ve watched every episode of Essential Craftsman. I’ve learned a ton. I’m a carpenter and a welder as well. I believe the best use of a welders cap is to use the bill to cover whichever ear is exposed to sparks, spatter, slag etc. Laying on your side is the most common time to turn it one way or the other. Thank y’all for everything you’ve done.
I would second that!! Having a spark burn down your ear is painful and really to be avoided at all cost!!
I love the discussions. Not everything really fits into a video, and this is enjoyable and authentic.
I have a collection of "older" Porter-Cable and I share your sentiments completely. P-C was once a top-notch solid brand. When the combining of Black and Decker, DeWalt, and Porter-Cable happened they began marketing DeWalt as their flagship brand and P-C was relegated to the consumer/value brand. Today I consider P-C at a similar level to Ryobi, Craftsman, Harbor Fright, or the big box store brands (Husky or Kobalt). Truly a squandering of brand equity. It takes years to build and maintain and only one purchase experience to permanently poison.
Still think PC makes a pretty damn nice router.
Ryobi is not bad for the cost. You need something to eliminate manual processes and once you have one tool it is only good sense to buy other with the same battery pack. Never had a problem with the tool but when it is time to replace batteries; who has the best deal. So far that has been Ryobi they draw me back with lithium ion batteries at a great price and then throw in an impact or a saw. My brother who has money to burn always buys DeWalt cause all his neighbors have DeWalt. He has made some complaints about them and he only uses them on the weekends for honey do's.
So just a comment on the Podcast format... It's doesn't matter what the format is RUclips , Cassettes, 8 tracks, its the quality of the knowledge you guys bounce off each other ! Thanks for the great videos !
I have come to like DeWalt a lot and do tend to shop DeWalt first but I’m certainly not too proud to use/buy any brand at all if it presents a good value and gets the job done. Another great episode. Keep up the good work!
I love these podcasts even sat in my van thousands of miles away in the uk I feel almost part of this conversation, great work guys what a foundation to build from 👍🏼👍🏼
I have an old school Makita saw it's a beast , very heavy but accurate and powerful , however I picked up a more ergonomic Craftsman about 5 or 6 years ago it is powerful , accurate and does everything I ask it to do. lightweight and powerful . At 63 years old my hardcore framing days are gone , so the right tool for your situation is what works for you . Love this channel guys keep after it.
Hey guys, just wanted to say I really appreciate your vlogs and podcasts, the podcasts are great to listen to while working away. Your vlogs showed me that a vlog doesn't have to be full of splash and dash to be good, and inspired me to start uploading content of my own on a more regular basis.
Well done! Another good production. The podcasts are weaving very well with the full blown videos. I also suspect that it may, once your days slow down just a bit, allow time to address points, questions or comments that have come from a loyal fan much smarter than I.
As to brand loyalty, my grandfather and my uncle introduced me to quality trucks, saws, drills, welders, tractors and yes, that first 9.6v Makita drill, and gave me my first lessons on loyalty in regard to equipment. The first tools I bought for myself as an adult 20+ years ago, are only shadows of themselves now. To quote AvE, I guess that's all thanks to "value engineering". Today, having retired from a rewarding, though very taxing unrelated profession, I still look to those wiser than I for guidance. Papa has been gone for almost 25 years, but my uncle, now retired from the trades, puts his tools and well earned titanium bone replacements to work on his homes and equipment. Sometimes when I ask his opinion on tools and work, I think he gets nostalgic and gives me smart remarks for my antics from nearly 40 years prior. Ha! How wonderful those days were! I also look to people like you and AvE, as well as a few others to help me ask and answer the questions necessary to make the best choices for *me* in my current situation. Oddly enough, my wife actually helped decide my cordless lineup, because with that first drill/driver combo, I became what I call "battery committed". Even though I have a bit of experience, I'm just a disabled "home-gamer" now and I try to act accordingly.
Thanks for another video. I think it is wonderful that you two get to share this endeavor together, and we are the beneficiaries along for the ride. Best wishes!
PS. If you have coffee cans full of nails that need to be straightened, I'll give you my address, Papa said I was the best damned nail straightener there is. Hahaha. Damn, I miss that man.
I am a physician, which has very little in common with the construction trades, but I admire skilled craftsmen of all the trades. I love your videos and your family values and work ethics. Please keep up the great work. By the way, I’m a Milwaukee guy and would definitely stay with that brand if I made my living in the trades. Thanks again guys.
Skil Boar Gun 1979 was an amazing high torque long battery life tool. I drove hundreds of 3" screws and drilled over 40-50 1" holes with a spade bit for wiring and still had battery left. When the batteries finally went bad after about 14 years I sadly had to move on. I went to a Makita 9.6V drill/screwdriver but the power was not there in 9.6v to drill the holes. It was much lighter and worked for a long time but moved up to Ridgid 18V platform for the Lifetime battery replacement and stronger batteries. Unfortunately, it was back to a heavy tool. You are right about choosing a consistent platform that fits your budget, your needs and the tools you use. Investment in batteries now keeps me in the Ridgid platform and the tool are adequate for the work that I do now.
I kind of fell into being "loyal" to Makita. I've tried a couple others. I didn't have any luck with Rigid (I've heard good things, but my experience is poor). Ultimately, I ended up with enough cordless Makita's that it's just cost effective to stay in the same battery type. Sort of like being loyal to the same razor because the blades fit the handle.
rjtumble we ended up the same way with DeWalt. Just makes sense to stay in the same battery family.
Hey brother I'm also a makita fanboy love em
I think Makita and Hilti are the only two brands that are NOT owned by some major corporation. I'm a Makita fan boy, and I will tell anyone that is wanting to spend the $$$ on tools to buy Makita. Milwaukee has really tried to catch up on the amount of tools offered, but they're still behind for a few tools. Milwaukees 12v line is well thought out though.
One of the best selling points for Makita (I think) is that if you are a professional and you need to get some of the bigger (36v or 18vx2) tools then with Makita it's the same battery, you just need two of them. You can buy a 1 battery cordless grinder, but they also have a 2 battery grinder available... plus they offer a FULL SIZE portaband that runs on one 18v battery. Unless Milwaukee has added that you have to go to their 28v line to get a full size portaband. That's a whole separate set of batteries and another charger. Every brand has a drill and impact, but the grinder and portaband are SUPER handy cordless tools when you're needing to use them all of the time.
Plus, the AvE tear downs of Makita tools typically show that they make a good to great product.
I haven't seen another brand besides Makita make a battery power coffee maker either. That's a very important tool on any jobsite :D
Every Makita I have touched has been garbage so I avoid them. I have not had any real issues with other brands. I must have bad luck.
@@renof2505 Funny, I've had the same experience with Rigid, especially with the triggers. Each tool I've had has been crap but all my Makita's have been good. These days, tools aren't built to last, they need us to keep buying new ones.
Like you I am a man of faith. I find that God shares every oncern we have. So a few years go I withdrew from the pickup truck wars. And the vchainsaw wars. So, whatever God provides I use and I do it with gratitude.
My introduction to cordless drills and drywall screws came at the same time. I got the bits and screws and little tools and used them with my old, reliable Black & Decker corded drill. (1/2" chuck, variable speed and reversible...) and with the passage of time I never found better among the corded drills. I have enjoyed the advent of little tools and several kinds of screws.
This being on spotify and realising today made my life that bit more enjoyable. Appreciate what you guys are doing all the way over here in Boston, UK.
Alexander Bell how do u find it on Spotify?
@@MsElijah16 literally searched essential craftsman and clicked on his logo. Then followed him.
Great stuff S&N! Love the podcasts! I think you struck a nerve with this one cuz there’s some rather lengthy comments.
Whenever possible, always try to buy tools made or at least assembled in YOUR country so you can help support your local countryman.
🤜🤛
I have the Dewalt flex volt 7.25-inch Circular saw if you get a chance try it out. I am not a professional but it has never had issues for me and honestly, I find it cuts better than my corded saw using the same blade. Also being a taller guy at around 6'7" corded tools have always been a bit of a pain as the cords just get in my way.
Scott, you would like the cordless DeWalt DCS577 saw, it’s your Skillsaw untied. 60 volts of pure power.
I never thought that i would find a saw that could compete with a HD77\Mag77 but the Dewalt DCS577 worm drive style saw is incredible. Given the cost, I was hesitant to purchase, but I have not looked back. Tons of power, reasonably light, accurate, rafter hook built in and the batteries last really well. Plus if you have other Dewalt 60V or 20V batteries- you can use its battery in those other tools. Like anything, there is a time and place for any tool: moving around and not near a plug the Dewalt is the way to go; on the ground near a plug cutting all day, then a MAg77 is great.
Absolutely rooting for y’all. You are far from an underdog yet still up and coming. So grateful for all that EC is and represents.
May you exceed your WILDEST dreams!
I think one of the most invaluable tools I own now is my smartphone camera, because if I need to I can take a picture and show it to somebody who knows what I need or what I need to do.
Love the content and the discussion. Battery interchange-ability is the driver of my fleet of cordless tools... although there is a little of the rainbow nest... I find the usefulness of the tool is directly related to the performance of the battery system, including time to re-charge. good stuff!
The cordless tool battery conspiracy is a crime that should be addressed by legislation. Consumers are getting screwed there unbelievably. But at the same time I can't blame companies doing it as long as they're getting away with it. Robbery is basically legal and I've never met a corporation that wasn't totally focused on profits. Could you imagine if the same situation existed in electrical receptacles as it is with cordless tool batteries? Can't plug that in there, that outlet is only good for LG products. Yeah right.
@@1pcfred If adapters were available for batteries to tools would really help. Either that or standardize the battery connections similar to C, D, AAA, or 9 Volt. Having to have specific chargers for batteries is a bummer and aggravation that is not needed.
@@royreynolds108 there are tools today that communicate with their battery packs. What they talk about I could not tell you. But the fact that they are talking complicates matters. It isn't just current at a voltage these days. And if you want to assume nefarious intent on the part of manufacturers I will not argue with you. The fact that microcontrollers cost pennies now is being used against us. For a very small initial investment a manufacturer can easily lock you into their products. For your own good, of course. Cha-ching!
Hey there, really enjoying both channels guys, great job. I carry both a cordless & corded circular saws.. I find cordless is great if I need to rip a few sheets or do some quick cuts but a big battery is essential. Corded for all other constant or repetitive work. Thanks for all the tips & info! James from Ireland
i love these guys. please please please consider a longer format - there's much wisdom and lessons you can and do impart to your audience and I welcome ah hour-long (or longer!!!) format. food for thought. keep up the good work!!!
Love these, great anecdotes and discussion!
I’ve been following your Channel from the start. I’ve always wondered.... hmmm... and the BYU-Hawaii comment gave it away. You both are like so many great people I know 👍
Yep. Always thought so and now I know you're one of us. Good day, Brethren.
Love the podcast!!!! I’ve been wanting this for some time. Been following this channel since he built the shed and just love the channel!! Milwaukee Packouts are amazing (best storage on the market by far) but I’ve been a dewalt guy for a while just because of battery interchangeability but will probably be going to Milwaukee just because of the packouts, crazy I know but I feel as though they care about craftsman and the customer service is amazing!!! Oh and we will never get tired of hearing from Phil the Plumber..... NEVER!! Lol
mhamby2009 we thought the same way. The packout system is awesome! BUT, they don’t yet have good options for pull out drawer units. And they are a bit wider than the DeWalt ones and have some lost space on the corners.
Yeah that’s the biggest down side.... I stacking everything gets a lil old. I’ve learned to keep my quickest grab tools on the top, everything has a downside lol
Love watching your videos! Keep it up. You just keep getting better at it. I am a carpenter in Roseburg and started watching you before I knew you were local...crazy word
My first impact drill was a ryobi. That impact built massive buildings in the NE and did everything works just like the new ones did, just needed an extra battery or two. Once the technology is there they are all the same and it's up to the user.
Bosch blue tools for pro's green for home use ! :D in the mid 80's had German battery drill "Drefix" they were very high quailty on 3/8 chucj (in UK)
Great chat. I believe modular storage is really important for productivity. I also don’t mind having a battery salad and having many tools of every color. I have basics in most platforms but each color has some real gems. One stackable deep box with chargers and batteries of every color. Done, best of six worlds. 80% of my work doesn’t even require a battery change but it’s not hard to do regardless.
I'm hoping this is the right video. Big fan of the original channel and was catching up on the podcasts today on the plane. I was real excited to hear about the Bailey hammers. Been looking at them for some time and the EC factor might tip the scales on buying one. Still not sure if I would want to use it or frame it as it's so beautiful! I think Brent is a great blacksmith, him and Scott are the only two I regularly watch. I think if Scott narrated for Brent it would be the perfect combo because Brent doesn't talk enough! Great discussion.
My son and I are binge watching your channel to try to get caught up. I'm so glad we found you. What year did you attend BYU Hawaii, I was there 93' & 94'? Thanks for all your hard work, we really appreciate your efforts in helping us to understand this new trade (construction) that we are entering in. We send out our first bid tomorrow, and your videos have been invaluable! If you're ever in the Star Valley area of Wyoming, stop in and I'll buy you a steak!
I have the newer Porter Cable cordless set. Overall, it does the job, as a homeowner that's constantly working and fixing things. I would love to step up to Milwaukee, but right now PC is what I have, and after 3 years they all still work just fine
I've owned any number of different brands of cordless tools over the years; like you, I grab whatever looks simplest and will do the job. Once you commit to a battery platform, of course, there's some common sense to continuing to buy compatible tools. Most of mine are Makita at the moment, as it happens, but I've had lots of Ryobi tools as well. A simple thing I liked about the Ryobi drills and drivers is that they have two bit holders molded into the bottom of the tool. I've never used another tool, regardless of cost or brand, that has two bit holders. The older DeWalt drills had a single one, I guess. I like the Makita line immensely, but I miss that simple convenience from my cheapo Ryobi driver.
Well said... it is too easy to entangle your identity with a product and your fishing lure analogy is spot on - which is what the marketing people want. I prayed to the Snapon gods until I realized that I did not break very often even cheap sockets or wrenches. Beautifully made and nice in the hand but the ROI is a killer. Harley is perhaps the ultimate - it is amazing how among a certain crowd of supposed 'rugged individualist' you can become an instant social pariah if you even look at another - and probably way superior - bike. There are some brands that still deserve I think my money - until the day the value engineer infiltrate.. My list would be Visegrips, Sawsall, Stihl chainsaws and Skilsaw for gear saws (I await Scott's review on the latest). Love your podcast format.
In the NiCad era, Dewalt was king of the cordless drill. My business partner had a drill that we just couldn't kill. When the batteries finally gave up the ghost (and we got tired of taping the batteries in place with electrical tape), we tried yellow, red and orange tools and they were fine, but we've had the best luck with Makita in terms of battery life and tool toughness. I have the little rinky-ding reciprocating saw that isn't good for much other than PVC pipe, but all the other tools are pretty skookum.
Been using Dewalt since back in the early 90's, replaced several along the way but always got my money worth out of them. I remember at first the Yellow Color made me wait a little on buying it, but thought at the time was one of the best you could get in a cordless drill. Been looking for what to go with now, and been looking at the Makita and brought the little 12V set of Drill and Driver because they where small and would fit in my box rather than having to carry another bag or case. So far been very happy with them, so may be going to the 18v Makita line for the more powerful cordless tools to replace my aging Dewalts. Had a Old corded Makita Sawzal that that I got guess in the late 80's it always did great the 10 or more years I used it till someone decided they wanted it. By then I had 24V Dewalt which worked great other than the Batteries where expensive to replace and did not seem to last very long. Then I dropped it and it split into right after I had just brought 2 new batteries. I dropped that Makita a number of times and it just kept right on going. Makita being a independent company makes me even more interested in them. One thing that really bothers me is how most all the different Brands that I have used over the past 40+ years in Electronic Parts, Electrical Parts and Pro Audio equipment have been swallowed up by Big Corporations that either destroy the Brand in one way.
Your dad needs to try the Flrxvolt saws from Dewalt. They're more powerful then corded. I have the worm drive and sidewinder
Just admire the hell out of EC and EC2 - Loving my Makita LXT 18s. They have earned me some money for sure. Keep up the good work boys...
I remember the Makita 9.6V cordless drill in the early 80s and they certainly popularized the use but Black & Decker invented cordless tools in 1961. It usually does take some time before things really catch on. It's usually about a half a generation too. So quite some time in how most of us perceive time. Which is why it is so often said that things happen, "ahead of their time". Because they do.
Mixing and matching myself. Makita corless drill, impact driver, 36v saw. Bosch corded jig saw. My old cordless dewalts are doing fine doing duty at home. Skil 77 worm drive, for sure.. whenever I get the chance! For me, a lot of it is about what feels good in my hand. Like choosing a guitar.
Thanks guys!
Interesting as ever.
As an Australian pretty passionate about unions and collective cooperation in the blue collar world, I'd be really interested to hear your thoughts on that end of the construction business.
All the best,
Cam
Very nice! If you went into further detail in each topic, you could easily have two or three hours of very interesting discussion.
Great discussion. Cordless tools have their place, but you could never keep up to a good framing crew without a corded saw.
Hope you keep the pod casts coming, thanks.
I would love to see a before and after with EC talking about Festool, and then playing with their CXS drill for a bit. Because when I tool company puts all their efforts into the practicality of a tool, and making every bit of it higher grade than the next guy's, you end up with a $400 subcompact drill/driver. I'm a cabinet guy by trade. And I've used every drill driver from Milwaukee to Hilti. And the Festool CXS is hands down the best in the business for cabinet installers. The control you have over trigger is unmatched. But I went through a phase of being very much like EC and scoffing at the price point of Festool. I now have a trailer full of just about their entire lineup. It was a humbling experience to shed my cynicism about high priced tools, and then exciting to see what can actually be done when you aren't trying to make tools in a "prosumer" big box store competitive price point.
Bosch is my go to, they are still independently owned
Yeah, I like Bosch a lot, too, but when I tried to buy some spade bits they are all (as in every single brand at two home improvement stores and, as far as I can tell, on the internet) made in China. BOO AND HISS.
ryobi is owned by techtronics industries or TTI wich owns milwaukee, im a dewalt fan but i love my skilsaw hd77 aluminium casing because its THE saw that is durable always precise and square. I like vaughan hammers . i think every brands and colours are great but some company are specialised in one specific tool like skilsaw ,vaughan hammers,ramset,klein and knipex.
I'm just getting into woodworking (well, I'm finally acting on it...). I find myself becoming a loyal Dewalt buyer (miter saw, reciprocating saw, orbital sander, hell even my safety glasses). They're solid and haven't disappointed. My circular saw is a Milwaukee, and I know that many carpenters/contractors/electricians/builders/etc. are die hard Milwaukee fans. Does it matter? Probably not very much. But... now that tools are going cordless, it makes SO much sense to get tools on one battery system. So, I will likely continue with Dewalt for any future purchases of cordless tools. Of course, I need to know how to use them well. That makes the biggest difference.
I love makita as well. 90% of my miter saws are makita. If you are thinking of changing cordless platforms, I would lean towards Milwaukee. They have tourqe and power that you wouldn't believe. I have invested heavily in their line, and have been happy since. I've been in the trades a long time and it took me a while to figure out that a carpenter can run a milwaukee tool just as well as an electrician or plumber. The m18 and m12 line are impressive. My jobsite buddies have makita, and when I run them, they feel weak compared to the Milwaukee. Just my 2 cents. Love that I found more EC. Keep them coming!
Best one yet guys, keep up the good work. Thanks from the UK.
I am but a rank amateur when it comes to the manipulation of organic carbon-foam but the Ryobi 9 piece kit has been a godsend for all my silly weekend warrior projects. The battery circ saw seems like a goofy little fella but it's just dandy for doing stuff like cutting up pallets for raised beds and the leaf blower is just fine for doing my relatively small front garden. My biggest complaint is that you get only two batteries, and the 2.5 Ah is really only good for the ancillary tools (radio/torch/*hot glue gun) but the 4 Ah is pretty good for general use.
I agree. I LOVE Ryobi ONE+ items. I get why blue collar pros wouldn’t commit to them, but as a regular guy...they have been more than sufficient for me.
@@inyaface07 I owned a Ryobi compound miter saw for 8-10 yrs before I learned it wasn’t the ‘cool’ brand to have. I worked with it professionally and it functioned just fine. Form follows function for me.
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I so identified with much of this discussion on brand loyalty. Twenty years ago (in my early forty’s) at a trade show, I vented my concerns about the “ray gun look” of Hitachi power tools to their sales rep. He told me bluntly that the weren’t trying too sell them to “old guys” like me. I’d been an aged user of Hitachi routers in my cabinet shop until then. I’ve used nothing but Makita routers since. I tell a lie. I did use purchase a Portacable once. It now collects dust at the back of the shelf behind my four Makita’s. I have four brands of planes in my kit. Not one Lie-Neilson.
Enjoy the show. Great content. Love EC. Just subscribed to your Podcast. Thanks!
9:07 the ol hammer scratcher. i do it with my spud wrench all the time
I like to ask "Is this is a product to sell, or a tool to work"
I see a lot of the former and not a lot of a ladder.
I really enjoy these chats! Thanks for sharing!
Great chat. You should consider calling up AvE and doing this again!
Bosch, Hilti, Makita are still independent
Milwaukee and Ryobi are owned by Techtronics HK
Dewalt, Porter Cable, Craftsman, are owned by stanley black and decker
Skil is Chevron
The sell out brands are what AvE calls "zombie" brands. As in the brand is dead but it looks like it's still alive.
I play guitar and with music gear like amps, pedals, guitars, etc there are many brands and types. No musician get all of the same brand pedals for example. We pick and choose the things that work for the application and how it interacts with the other gear. It takes a mismatch of stuff to make a unique character and sound. I look at tools the same way, I always choose function over form. Rare is the case that any one set or brand no matter how big or small fits all the needs of the prescribed duty but when you do find a good combination it's golden, :)
Great work guys I enjoy your videos, I would like to see you guys bring on your excavation contractor like you did with your plumber.
I was completely against a cordless skill saw boss bought the dewalt 60v saw and i am blown away runs all day on intermittent use and 2 batteries keep up with anything you can throw at it never thought it would happen but i am a fan!
More important to me is if a particular brand has a specific tool that I know I’m going to need a lot in the near future. Case in point I needed a battery operated grinder, vacuum and oscillating saw for a large (4 month) project just as my impact driver was starting to wear out. So now I have a fleet of red instead of orange. Battery interchangeability is important to me. As well as specialty tool availability.
Love the pod cast keep doing what you’re doing
Very interesting show. You guys have good chemistry.
I have a small battery circular saw. it is great for a few cut maybe more, but if I am going to be sawing all day wouldn't hesitate to pull out my skil saw. It come down to what is the easiest and quickest way to get the job done.
👍👍👍👍Any of my old ancient corded tools that are left say black and decker professional. Never tried Makita. Owned and or used early skills 12v, Milwaukee, ryobi and Dewalt. Ryobi dont survive on a service truck but fine for spare set at home, bought a set for my daughter. The 18v dewalts I beat the crap out of on my truck and was truly amazed. The 24v just dont seem as heavy duty.. I think they all have a good run and then someone takes over. Kinda stinks that ya get tied to them with the battery platform then they change it.... Now I gotta buy adapters or pick up all new tools LOL....
A few years ago I taught construction Boot Camp for various unions that introduced newbees to construction. after completion students could be on a priority list to become apprentices/ I used to tell them to buy a used set of tool bags and a few well used tools so other workers would think they had some experience then after a couple weeks on the jpb go buy some new tools. It impresses the boss that you are buying more tools. . Like you buying a new helmet and rod holster to be THE welder.
he hit the nail on the head.. i have about 60 m18 milwaukee tools and 20 or so m12 tools and the best think i can say about em is that they all have practical features... reason i have so much from milwaukee is the interchangeability of the batteries.. them things are expensive and i like that all my tools use the same thing..
The funny thing is when you pop them battery packs open all cordless tools do use the same batteries. 18650 li-ons Funny how they're not all interchangeable between tool brands though. A shame that! Milwaukee really sees you coming with battery packs too. They're like $100 a pop! Cha-ching.
I use mostly makita tools and they have worked fine for me for years along my skill 77 and Milwaukee seawall. The biggest difference in the new tools vs old is clearly there more powerful and reliable, but what we lost is the simple serviceability of our tools nowadays.
16:34 That's cool to hear! Our biggest tool collection is in cordless Makita.
you pay $200 for a drill/driver combo !!!!!!!!!!!! Here in New Zealand a month or two back I bought a DeWalt set cost $600 nzd you guy's are so lucky Keep up the good work I watch all your video's and enjoy them immensely Cheers Rod in NZ
Pretty excited about his Burke bar, his truck, his crane.
I’m loving the podcast guys. I think you should make them a little bit longer. Maybe 45mins to an hour. Great job
Brand loyalty does make sense on cordless power tools as the battery line comes to play. I personally use Kobalt, they have always gotten the job at hand done and their battery platform is pretty cheap. My hand tools are a hodge podge of brands but they all work together like my Husky ½" drive ratchet works with my Tekton ½" drive sockets.
Dewalt for life! Haha! Love the content, keep it coming! 👍👍👍
I've heard some current executive over at DeWalt has not really been steering the brand in a good direction lately. They had a good man on the job but he jumped ship to Milwaukee. It isn't companies that run things but rather individuals within companies. So logos do not make anything any better.
I've used all different brands of power tools. Had good and bad luck. Worst was 15 years ago bought a Bosch resipicating saw.....junk. best is a old skil battery impact (like today's M12 by Milwaukee) thing just wont die.
One thing the Skilsaw worm drive has that most others don't have is a left side blade. Its seems you have to practically special order one from any other brand. Being right handed, it explains my disgust with most circular saw usage. THAT would explain a loyalty I would have. If I can get good reasonable charge time and good performance DOING the work, I will almost use ANY cordless IF its lightweight and usable for long periods without spending time worrying if my tool will make it to the end of the job. Brand name is NOT one of my criterion for purchase. I DO look at the price tag and I DO compare specs between brands and I DO look into what others think of the product NOT the brand.
I think I’m in agreement with you about ‘brand’. I will NOT buy a certain brand bcz it happens to be the ‘flavor-of-the-month’ with tradesman. I don’t care what is the ‘in’ brand to have. I’m a, form-follows-function, kind of person. I owned a Ryobi compound mitre saw for probably 8-10 years before I even knew that it wasn’t a cool brand to have. Function is all I cared about.
I think if you have an arsenal of cordless tools, some consideration has to be given to brand bcz of battery interchangeability.
The other variable that DOES matter to me is, where the tool is made. I love to be able to buy a tool that is made in my country (provided it’s functional). I think everyone should try to support their homeland.
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The blade is usually on the right hand side so you don't get sprayed with sawdust cutting right handed. I'm left handed and when I use a right handed saw I use it right handed. Because I got tired of eating sawdust. I do have a couple lefty saws now but they just feel weird for me to use left handed.
I think there's an undeniable benefit to having a common battery system with your company, co-workers, friends, and family. It's like telling my parents that they can buy any smart phone they want, as long as it's the same software that I use. Otherwise, I'm not helping them figure it out. It's the nature of the beast to get tracked into the different battery systems.
Corded, air, and hand tools are much more open because their power sources are pretty much universal and you can pick and choose what you like and work best with much more.
As a mechanic, I'd say always start with the big box store brands because they won't cost you too much out of the gate, but to upgrade to more 'pro' grade tools as they wear out or break. I'd say pick a brand for your bread and butter daily use tools as you upgrade, but be open to whatever your 'other' truck is because they might have a particular tool set or special tool that your main brand doesn't have which could make your life easier.
And of course remember the first commandment of buying tools: thou shalt not finance off the tool truck, especially if you intend on sticking around for a while.
Here in Otago New Zealand it's the same around farm tractors. Down south its red county which is Case ih. Come up a little it's Blue Ford. Go up to Canterbury it's John Deere. All these areas are staunchly those brands for generations.
I love the new format and just wanted to comment that tool bags are as important as any single tool.
They will go far to making a potential new hire look professional and productive, but kinda in a reverse sort of way.
I think it’s funny that I intentionally never EVER hire a new guy with a brand new set of bags.
Hello EC have you ever considered making a video or podcast regarding ambition? I feel as if I'm the only one on my crew that cares what gets done, how efficiently it gets done, or whether or not our business is going to be successful. I keep thinking that surely there are people out there whose dream is to do carpenter work. I cant help but feel like I'm working around zombies. Do you have any tips on how to acquire quality, driven people, as well as inspire the people I currently work around? I have goals of running my own crew, but as of right now it seems as if the older carpenters have it made up in their mind that I'm too young to teach them anything, and shoot down any conversation that isn't negativity driven. Thanks!
That could be called one of the age-old mystery’s. It is tough to teach old dogs new tricks. Motivation however is almost always driven by a single person, in regards to a ‘crew’ of people working on something. Whoever it is that everyone generally considers the leader, is the one that will set the pace for the ‘followers‘. A bad leader is like a cancer that will invariably infect the whole. Taking over leadership is tricky. You’ve got to endear the others to you with your actions. Also show interest in their ideas and even try to implement them sometimes. Usually this will mean you’ll have to work harder by helping them with their tasks, without seeking credit. But, not to worry. It won’t go unnoticed. It will take some time but when the time is right, everyone knows who is helping them be successful.
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@@psidvicious amen. I work nonstop at it and read stacks and stacks of books on becoming an effective leader but just seems like im spinning my wheels sometimes. However I know there will be a breakthrough with persistence. 🤘💪
@@andrewwilliford8165 It could be helpful to think ahead a cpl steps as well. Not just how you can become an effective leader but how you would choose someone to lead a crew[s] for you in the future.
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@@psidvicious that's a good idea
My photography prof told us that people will ask “what kind of camera do you have?”, when viewing your photograph. On the other hand, no one asks a chef “what kind of pots do you use?” , after consuming a fine meal.
People are often interested in what cutlery chefs use. And on the higher levels what pots you use do matter too. Le Creuset is some top notch stuff. I got a $450 dutch oven that's a life changer.
I’m a Milwaukee guy, but I don’t care what you use as long as you’re happy with it.
Milwaukee are patent trolls. They patented using lithium ion batteries with tools and the patent office actually let them do it. Not that Milwaukee invented lithium ion batteries or cordless tools. Or anything really. They were just the first assholes bold enough to get the bright idea to patent an obvious idea.
I love Milwaukee tools cause they are well made and I just love it when the tool preform really well
And I have lots of fun using it to that is a big part of it for me It’s also important that the tool is agronomic and feel good in your hand while your using it day in day out
Milwaukee got bought by a Hong Kong company called TTI.
Great video! Very much enjoyed listening to your perspectives!
I feel badly for you US guys. We have had Robertson screws for so long. I always had to grit my teeth when I did any work down there and had to use Philips screws. The Torx style have made them all a little old-school, but the square drive has been great for a long time.
I don't watch podcasts, but I'll be watching yours!
The old saying 'Good tools won't make a poor quality job better but they will make a good job easier'
Just goes to show Scott pays way more attention to the work at hand than the tool or especially the color of the tool in his hand. Personally, I have brand loyalties in cordless and corded tools but far less loyalty in anything else. There's definitely a list of about 20+ tools I'm brand loyal over because I believe I have found the best there is and won't compromise ever again. But with those as exceptions, I buy what's available locally, and what meets the value I need it to based on the intensity and frequency of the work it must do. Price is third place to those factors. On my every day carry category tools I treat money as virtually no object though, I buy only the best for the tools I use nonstop. But tools I pick up once a year and don't do extreme work with I usually will buy at Harbor Freight. Cost benefit analysis happens with everything but with the core daily use tools cost is virtually always outweighed by benefit.
My tool collection, like Scott’s, is by and large from the corded era. Unlike Scott, I’m around Nate’s age and the trade that feeds my family is digital. That means I use the tools I grew up using around the house for meat-space trade work only when I know my personal sense of allowable tolerance and externalities will offset what I lose by not contracting out. My experience talking online with trade folk around my age is they can’t imagine how I get any work done without all the same brand-because they’ve never worked in a scenario where EVERY brand share a common power source: 110/120VAC at 60Hz!
You need to look up and demo a dewalt worm drive cordless circular saw... they have power. It looks alot like your favorite skil saw.