Favorite tools and those to avoid?

[lcwmt]

Yes, I did get a batch of those, but I was confused by people saying not to use them. So I'll first put together what I'm trying to do with those UV zip ties, and then if I see it's all worked out well, I may fortify them with the metal stuff. Thanks!

It's been my impression that many people on the forum do not know there are Exterior Grade zip ties as well as the short ones made for interior wiring. A helper at a local hardware store didn't know the difference. For exterior work, you need the UV resistant ties.

 

[purslanegarden]

Oh, okay, I can visualize it now. I was having trouble driving screws into 2x4s (in part because I hadn't yet learned I needed to drill a pilot hole first) but then I got my Kreg jig and have been doing pocket holes. Those are so easy to do!

Exactly..this is where the impact drill will come in handy. The pilot hole helps but the impact drill is a game changer as far as the kinds of things you can now attach together and the kind of wood material you can use (stronger or heavier woods can now be part of your build materials).

 

[aart]

The pilot hole helps

Depends on what kind of screws you are using whether or not you need a pilot hole...
.....and what kind of pilot hole, countersink, counterbore, etc.
Kregs are great for certain applications, but kinda of expensive IMO.