Another frequently used tool is the reciprocating saw, also called a sabersaw or a Sawzall®—the name given to Milwaukee’s® popular saw (see the bottom photo on the facing page). This tool allows you to cut in tight places and make curved cuts. Different blades are available for cutting through wood, metal, plaster, and plastic. For general use, I buy 6-in. bimetal blades, which cut through both wood and metal.
The power-miter saw (generally referred to as a chopsaw) has revolutionized finish carpentry just as the circular saw revolutionized roughframing carpentry. With a chopsaw, you can make precise square and angled cuts in framing lumber, door and window casings, and baseboard trim. These saws are rugged and easy to use. When equipped with a fine blade, they can make glass-smooth cuts.
This tool, the sliding compound miter saw, is a trim worker’s dream. It is essentially a chop saw that can cut angles across wide boards. I use it not only to cut baseboards and door casings, but also to cut across wide boards used in closets, blocks, headers, and cripples used in a house frame (see Resources on p. 279).
It wasn’t long ago that tablesaws were cumbersome, heavy, and anything but portable. But times have changed. Now an on-site tablesaw can be moved easily by just one or two workers. But don’t be fooled by the lightweight label. These saws are well built, accurate, and with reasonable care will last for years (see Resources on p. 279).
An electric drill is a versatile tool on any job site. It’s capable of boring holes in all sorts of material and can also be used for driving screws and mixing paint or drywall compound. Most
