2013 Holiday Tool Gift Guide
Tool Skool's 2013 Gift Guide for People Who LOVE Tools!
Tool Skool has had some changes this year. Brad has made his way to the Tool Skool Texas headquarters, Beth is holding down the fort in Tennessee, and we've got Author X checking out tech and survival tools, and resident contractor Dana Wilkerson has been busy testing tools on the jobsite here, there, and everywhere. But there's one thing we all come together on for the holidays, and that's tools! We love tools, give tools as gifts, and hope to give you some great ideas on cool tools and products you can give to the folks on your list whether they've been naughty or nice this year.
So, keep checking back, because between now and Christmas Eve (cause we know most of you guys won't start your shopping until about noon that day) we'll be adding ideas as we see them. Here are the items to put you in the spirit of giving... and hey, we won't tell if you pick up a couple of these items for yourself!
Brad's Book: Spend-A-Little, Save-A-Lot Home Improvements: Under $20
... And you can get your copy signed by the author. This book is a great manual for those who want to learn basic projects. With lots of pictures and step-by-step instructions, even a novice will gain some confidence after completing some of these projects. And for those of you that have more intermediate to advanced skills, this book will gently push you to complete some projects that will save you energy, thus money, and keep small problems from becoming bigger problems.
To read more about it and to order your signed copy: CLICK HERE
How about something you can work on in the woodworking shop, but it might actually bring the family together.
Rockler Koostik Kit (Passive Amplifier for iPhones: On sale for $44.99
We just got one of these to put together, and while I wouldn't call it an advanced woodworking project, it can be personalized by staining it or giving it your own custom edging or design, but what I think is the coolest thing about this gift is the unique ability to bring technology and woodworking together. This is a great gift for the woodworker who has everything, or for the tween who you might want to share some common ground with.
To read more: CLICK HERE
To order from Rockler: CLICK HERE
Black and Decker 18V Cordless Alligator Loppers NLP1800: Between $80 - $100
Beth has been testing this tool and absolutely LOVES it. You're not going to cut down a redwood with it, but for trimming up stubborn shrubs and smaller trees it's the bomb! Tool Skool has already reviewed the corded version and a review of the cordless version is coming very soon. The cordless version works the same way as the corded version, only it's more convenient because you are not dragging the cord with you. For the person on your list that likes to keep a nice manicured yard, this is a great gift idea.
To read the review on the corded version: CLICK HERE
To order on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
DEWALT DCR018 Compact Jobsite Radio: Under $125
This small but sturdy radio was all the buzz this year. It can be used corded or cordless and is compatible with 18V stem pack or 20V Max slide pack batteries. With its beefy controls, bright LCD display and long run time, this is the perfect radio for the jobsite, shop, or to take on a camping trip.
To read Brad's Review: CLICK HERE
To order on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
Milwaukee M12 Special Edition Women's Heated Jacket 2339: $199 for the Kit
Guys, it's Beth speaking to you here. Let me give you a bit of advice... How many times has your wife, girlfriend, significant other complained about being cold? Wouldn't you be the best thing since sliced bread if you gave her a gift that could solve that problem and imagine how much peace and quiet you might get in return (okay we may be stretching it there). I got this heated jacket about a week ago, and it dropped to the twenties this week while I was in the middle of moving out of my house. I can tell you, I instantly fell in LOVE with this jacket. And it's really cool when you walk in the store or the bank and they ask you why it's glowing. When you tell them it's heated, you look like a genius. You'll be the smartest man alive this year if you pick this gift.
To read more: CLICK HERE
To take a look on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
Milwaukee M12 Men's Heated Jacket 2345 (Updated Version): $199 for the Kit
We certainly don't want to leave you guys out, and Milwaukee has made plenty of improvements with the Men's Heated Jacket. Like hand warming zones! And they've added as USB port. You'll want to check it out... and the video of Brad and his new friend is worth the watch just for entertainment value.
To read more and watch Brad and his friend in the video: CLICK HERE
To check it out on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
Bosch MXH180B 18v Brushless Oscillating Tool: Around $220
A lot of companies have come out with brushless technology this year, but Bosch has taken that technology and put it into a cordless oscillating tool. These tools are extremely versatile and can be used on a variety of jobs. When just about any other tool doesn't work, the oscillating tool will, and the brushless technology with give you power with the convenience of going cordless.
To read more and watch a preview video: CLICK HERE
To order on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
For the Automotive Enthusiast on your list:
ACDelco 12V Polisher | Headlight Restoration Kit ARS1207: Around $220
Brad loves to keep his twenty-something year old truck bright and shiny, so this was a kit that was right up his alley. And if you know an auto enthusiast, this would make the perfect gift for him or her also.
To read more and check out the video: CLICK HERE
To check it out on Amazon.com: CLICK HERE
RIDGID 10″ Portable Table Saw R45101 (AKA R4510): Under $500
Okay, so you really have to like the person on your list to give this one, but maybe you can ask Santa for one of these for you! Brad found this portable table saw to incorporate many of the features of a larger cabinet saw, but with the convenience of being portable.
To read Brad's Review: CLICK HERE
To order from The Home Depot: CLICK HERE
We hope these ideas will make your holiday shopping a bit easier. If you know of a great gift, tell us about it. We may take your idea and add it to the guide. Happy Shopping!