Tools are discovered to simplify and perform operations like shaping, sharpening, cutting, drilling, threading, hammering, crimping, wrenching etc. in an effective manner.
Tools are classified into two categories viz. Hand Tools and Power Tools. Hand Tools don't need any power source other than the physical force applied on it. Spanners, Pliers, Hammers, Hacksaws and Screwdrivers etc. are some examples for Hand Tools.
Power Tools are the upgraded version of Hand Tools which are operated by external power sources like electricity, fuel and compressed air etc. Impact Drills & Wrenches, Power saws, Electric hammers, Electric screwdrivers and Electric cutters etc. are some examples for Power Tools.
When, Where and Why:
The decision to use Power Tools or Hand Tools will depend on the type of job, level of accuracy, delivery time, and power required.
Hand Tools can be used for small Do It Yourself (DIY) projects, crafting musical instruments, cabinets, decoration works like wood carving etc. Craftsmen and artisans prefer Hand Tools to get the desired effect/artistic look - which is highly required in their work. Users have more control over the movement of Hand Tool because they are compact, less weight, portable and easy to handle. Hand Tools are highly desired and widely used when the job at hand requires fine detailing or when the work is of small scale. We can go with Hand Tools to do simple household works, artistic works, DIY tasks like fixing broken chairs, screw or unscrew nails on normal surfaces, assembling furniture, loosen or tighten nuts and bolts etc.
Power Tools come into play when Hand Tools face difficulty to complete a task. For example, it will be really hard if we use Hand Tools to drive screws or nails into a concrete wall - a suitable Power Tool can perform this task within seconds. High speed and power of Power Tools help us to complete the task with minimum effort and time when compared with Hand Tools. Power Tools are highly preferred when the work in hand is larger in scale & size, hard & time-consuming and less artistic.
Today, most projects or work need both Hand Tools and Power Tools to produce a better outcome - decorative wooden chairs can be a good example of this. Power Tools like Jig Saws, Mitre Saws, Circular saws, Planners, Routers can be used to cut and process the required woods in rough shape and Hand Tools like Hand saw, Spokeshaves, Files, Rasps, Hammers, Mallets, Carving sets, Turning sets can be used to do the fine, detailed and decorative part of the work. Most professionals recommend and prefer this type of blended operations based on the task.
Cost:
Hand Tools are less in cost compared to Power Tools. Hand Tools are less complex than Power Tools, number of moving parts in Hand Tools are negligible compared to Power Tools. Due to complexity and more internal moving parts, most Power Tool prices are higher than Hand Tools. Most Power Tools require periodic maintenance to keep them healthy and performing – this may have cost implications in the long run which may not be the case with most Hand Tools.
Safety Measures:
Whether it is a Hand Tool or Power Tool, please mind that for any type of tools proper safety precautions to be followed and the tools should be used only for its intended purpose. Before using any tool, make sure to wear safety equipment like goggles, muffs, gloves, boots and other protective apparels. Always posses a first aid kit within the working area and don't forget to keep the tools away from children.
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