00103 09 Intro to Hand Tools A sledgehammer

00103 -09 Intro to Hand Tools

A sledgehammer is a heavy-duty tool used to drive post or large stakes, or to break up concrete.

To prevent injury when pulling a nail, be sure the material holding the nail is braced securely before you pull. Also be sure to keep balanced footing and a firm grip on the tool.

A chisel is a metal tool with a sharpened edge and can be used to cut wood metal or stone. When using a chisel always wear safety glasses, and remember if the head of the chisel is mushroomed do not use it.

Do not use a screwdriver near live wires or as a electrical tester.

Tongue and groove pliers have serrated teeth that grip flat, round, or hexagonal shaped objects.

Sockets wrench sets include sockets (the part that grips the nut or bolt) and ratchets (handles) that are used to turn the socket.

Torque wrenches measure resistance to turning when tightening nuts or bolts. To ensure the proper torque hold the head of the wrench to ensure support and proper alignment with the nut or bolt.

A wooden folding ruler is usually marked in 1/16 " and can come in 6' or 8' lengths. Because of its stiffness it is better for measuring vertical distances than a cloth or steel tape measure.

A chalk line is a string that is coated with chalk. Stretch the string tightly between 2 points and snap it to release chalk.

A utility knife has a replaceable razor like blade that can be locked in 3 different positions on some knives. When using a utility knife care should be taken to protect the surface under the object you are cutting by placing a piece of scrap underneath. The safest model is the retractable blade model.

The compass/keyhole saw is used to cut curves quickly in wood, plywood, or drywall. It has a blade that is 8" to 14" long and has 7 or 8 teeth per inch.

When using a hand saw brace yourself so you are not thrown off balance on the last stroke.

A good practice is to use a file brush to clean the filings from the teeth of the file after each use.

If the frame of a clamp is bent it should be discarded.

When maintaining a chain fall or comealong be sure that you do not lubricate the clutches.

There are three basic shapes of shovels: round, square, and spade. Use a round point to dig holes or remove large amounts of soil.

A pick is a tool used to break hardened or rocky soil, level out stones, chop tree roots, and break up stones or concrete. To ensure safety when using a pick be sure the head is firmly attached to the handle.