What are the most used tools for restoration....
I have been noticing quite a few threads about what tools are used in restoration workshops...
Please pick your top tools by frequency of use ... I am not including hand tools like a small ball peen hammer, files, punches, wire cutters etc:
Mine are rather easy
Buffer: if you can only have one get a 1725 rpm or a variable speed and get a buffer not a torn down grinder the longer the arbors (arms) the better...These can also be made from an old washing machine motor...
Watch the HP, for what we do you don't need a ton of it....This is one of the most dangerous tools we use, I tend to want a lower HP rating so if I mess up it doesn't yank my arm off...
Vice/anvil: Invaluable in the shop a 3" to 5" works great and get one that bolts/screws to the bench...
Drill Press: If you make scales they are a must not only for holes but you can get attachments for drum sanding that you can use for shaping and even planening...Get a variable speed one, most are
Bench sander: My most used scale making tool is a 4x36 arm with a 5 inch disc can do so many things for so little money..
Power saw: I have many from the rifle business but if I were going to have only one of the many, it would be a table saw with a jig to rip 1/8 - 3/16 stock... I have used all the saws to try this, so far the most exact and the smoothest cuts come from a properly set up table saw....
Keep in mind there are tons of great tools sitting in Pawn shops and flea markets and garage sales everywhere in the country I am pretty sure this is true all over the world please correct me if I am wrong so you don't have to spend a ton of $$$$........
If I were setting up a small shop to only make razors I would seriously look into the mini-tools by Proxxon they are crazy expensive though...
Those are my must have tools...