Shop Tools & Equipment

One of the first items is a welding table.  I first started out with an 18" square steel table that was about 1/4" thick. I found that this was easily warped and eventually got a 3' x 4'  1/2 thick steel table top which is what I use today.

I wouldn't go less than 3/8th in thick. 

There are other options such as a firebrick table.  This would be much less expensive, but I have tried firebrick and it hasn't worked out well for me.

A vice is important.  I use an old blacksmiths floor vice, but it really isn't necessary.  I use it because I have it.  A good 3 1/2" vice is adequate.  If you don't already have a vice the imported vices are surprising inexpensive.

The floor vice

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3 1/2" Vice

Drill Press Vices

Here are two drill press vices; the one on the right is the more traditional.  I particularly like the one on the left because I can lay it on it's side when holding, let's say a bicycle.

The traditional drill press vices are easy to find, you may have to do some searching to find the other type.

The 4 Inch Grinder

I have several of these because I use them for grinding and for sanding.  Also for grinding out a weld when I have made a mistake.  The one on the right is a Bosch I've had for 35 years and still works like new.

The photo below is a piece from the Steel Sculpture Series.  These pieces have been ground with the 4" grinder.  The different levels of grinding reflects the light which attracts the viewers attention.

Another grinder I have I paid less than $20.00 for it and it works as well.  Not sure that it will last 30 years, but at that price I can easily replace it.

I use these with either a grinding disc, sanding discs or cutoff discs.

With the grinding disc or cut off disc make sure that you use the guard that comes with the grinder. 

Whether grinding, sanding or using as a cut off tools be sure to wear safety glasses.

Drill Press

This is an inexpensive bench drill press.  You don't need an expensive drill press unless you are going to be doing precision work.  As you can see I have a good selection of drill bits.   When drilling metals, especially steel it is good to use a cutting oil to reduce the frictions on the drill bits.  This way the drill bits will stay sharp longer.

I don't use the drill press that much, but it is good have when I need it.  My suggestion is to not run out an buy one until you find you need one. 

This is a tool that you might consider buying used.  There isn't much you can do to hurt a drill press. 

Use the shop tools that you have and add to them when find a need.

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