Archive for the ‘Tools’ Category

Cheap Chainsaw Machine - How To Avoid Getting Ripped Off With Used Chainsaws

September 2nd, 2008 by The Handyman

There are many traps for new buyers when shopping for a cheap saw and the first instinct is to look for a second hand machine. While this may have some merit, did you know you could quite easily pick up a new machine for the price of a second hand saw.

Today, big mart stores provide some great value chainsaws at cheap prices and if you are just looking for a machine to do some odd jobs around the house then you really should start looking at these budget machines. Second hand chainsaws can be risky. For example, if they have been used excessively then you will more than likely strike some issues with them.

Do you know the chainsaw’s history? Just because it’s a cheap saw doesn’t mean it’s going to be a bargain buy. What’s the point if it breaks down within a month of buying it. One trick is to always make sure you can get hold of the machine’s service history. Most times you will be taking the seller’s word that the saw is in good working order but a service history can tell you a lot about it’s performance history.

Tips For Buying A Cheap Chainsaw

One guideline to follow is to consider used cheap chainsaws only when they are between 12-18 months old and no more. While saws don’t change in what they are supposed to do there are always improvements going on in the area of safety.

Many people look for cheap saws at yard sales which will always produce a good bargain but there is still the issue of the machine’s history. Always check the chain thoroughly to see how worn it is and if it looks like it’s been through the mill you might want consider moving on.

Never walk away with a used machine unless you are able to put it through it’s paces. Always ask to test it. Check it’s starting ability and how quickly it kicks into gear. Then test it on some material and look out for things such as it’s cutting ease and whether you need to exert extra pressure on it to perform a cut.

Be Careful Buying Online

While the online world presents many buying opportunities there are plenty of traps for new players. If you are considering a cheap chainsaw online simply based on price you may want to re-think your decision. Unless it’s from a known dealer and more importantly, comes with a warranty, then look elsewhere.

You also will want to check the contact details of the seller. Believe it or not, many buyers overlook this. Be sure you can phone the seller and talk with them and never purchase a saw without having the opportunity to physically speak with the person selling it.

In the end, if you are just wanting something to use around the home then consider purchasing a cheap saw in new condition. Visit some of the big shopping marts and you’ll be surprised at just how cheap some of the saws are.

Invest In A Porter Cable Air Compressor

August 14th, 2008 by The Handyman

There are several examples of Porter Cable Compressors that can be bought now. The Porter Cable Air Compressor brand of products is made by Porter-Cable – a company that has been around from 1906. The Porter Cable Air Compressors are partners with the Porta-Cable brand of portable power tools for use in carpentry. Porta-Cable makes its items in Jackson, Tennessee, alongside its affiliated company Delta. Porter-Cable and Delta became sister businesses in the year 1960, but they give different items.

One of their offerings is the 25 Gallon Vertical Air Compressor Portable 60 Gallon Tank 175 PSI. This product features a 175 PSI and a tank that holds the equivalent of 60 gallons. Its high capacity air regulator features a starting PSI of 145, which can go as high as 175 PSI. This product has the best level of above average use and off and on tool operation among its competition. It includes an oil-free design that is both durable and simple to care for. It includes a direct-drive twin cylinder. Its 120 volt induction and robust torque motor gives you dependable starting function, as well.

Another of the Porter Cable Air Compressor models you might want to consider is the 20 Gallon Air Compressor 5.1 CFM @ 90 PSI model. This Porter Cable Air Compressor has a 175 PSI – 49 gallon equivalent tank volume. Its high-flow air regulator begins at 145 PSI and culminates at 175 PSI. This Porter Cable Air Compressor is built to match the top regulations of moderate-to-heavy work and sporadic tool usage in its product category. Dependable starting can be provided by its 120 volt induction and high torque motor. Its “4 Pole” 1725 RPM motor gives the tool a longer operational lifespan and brings down the level of sound. You achieve remote air regulation as well as control in the surrounding work location of the job site thanks to the remote “quadraport” center. This product also includes a high-flow regulator and 4 quick connect units.

The last Porter Cable Air Compressors item to look into is called the Oil Free Induction Side Stack Compressor. This appliance features 6.0 SCFM that allows its 4.3 gallon tank to recharge more quickly. A longer tool run-time can be gained through the 150 PSI Max. 120 PSI cut-in pressure delivers 30 PSI “Bonus Air” before rendering a 90 PSI tool wholly defunct. Its 1.6 running HP induction motor was intended for extended use. It also includes push to connect couplers, a High-FloSM air regulator, and an oil-free pump that will not result in oil spillage; the pump requires zero upkeep.

Poulan Review - Are Poulan Saws Too Unreliable?

August 4th, 2008 by The Handyman

There has been an increase in home owner use of chainsaws in the last few years and this has seen a big increase in the number of brands on the market.

Stihl and Husqvarna are definitely top of the tree but some question their value for money. They can be a bit pricey for the average home owner who uses a saw occasionally so we took a look around and did a Poulan saw review.

Poulan have been around for sometime and as far as chainsaws are concerned, have always been in the shadows of the major brands. But be rest assured, they have their own special band of loyal followers.

Poulan have a reputation for providing value-for-money chainsaws and further investigation reveals this is certainly true. Does value-for-money mean a chainsaw is reliable. No, not at all and Poulan have copped a bit in this respect.

However, they have caught up to the pack recently and their band of followers is on the increase.

Reviews Of Poulan Saws For Home Users

There is little doubt Poulan are a great choice for home users. When looking at a Poulan saw review and you are just an occasional user then pay particular attention to those who are in the same category and simply want a chainsaw that can be used around the yard.

Poulan will often come up in discussions and this is not surprising. One of the reasons is they are not as big and cumbersome as some of the other leading brands. For an inexperienced user, this is ideal because an awkward saw in the wrong hands can be asking for trouble.

Price is another important aspect of a Poulan chainsaw review. How much can you expect tp pay and will it burn a hole in your pocket. Well, the good news is it won’t. This is where Poulan is such an attractive alternative to some of the bigger names.

For between $100-$200 you can pick up a chainsaw which can pack a punch but is perfect for those medium to light jobs around the home. You’ve got to remember, paying excessively, several hundred dollars for a saw which may only be used a few times a year, doesn’t make sense.

The Wild Thing Range

As an entry level chainsaw, the Wild Thing is ideal but before you go out and spend any money just be aware that there is definitely a mixed batch of reviews surrounding them.

It’s quite interesting but surveying several Wild Thing users got a mixed set of responses. Some love them and have never had a day of trouble while others had complaints about reliability.

In the end, this Poulan saw review is more about highlighting the excellent value with this brand and for under $200, the Wild Thing is certainly worth taking a look at. Check online chainsaw or woodcutter forums to get more information on this saw before making a final decision.