Tools I Wouldn’t do Without: This section is all about making your life easier on the shop floor. These tools are all about saving time and money over the long haul, unlike some tools that will pay for themselves the first time you keep from scrapping an expensive part.

1) Kurt Brand Vise Speed Handle – A manly vise handle that is not for sissy’s. This one is extremely rugged and made out of steel unlike the imported pieces of junk with a die cast aluminum hub. I have had mine for many years and never experienced a problem with it. It has four handles and enough weight behind it to open or close the vise completely with just a few spins. At just over $60.00, it is somewhat of a luxury, but is a well built unit that I would buy again if I lost mine.

2) Albrecht or Jacobs Keyless Drill Chuck – I’ve use both brands and they are both top quality. I have these tools on all my manual mills and lathes. They are tremendous time savers. If you have never used one and are contemplating buying one, take it from me that you will be satisfied when you make the investment. Albrecht chucks are priced from $138.95 for a 0 – 1/8” up to $210.00 for a 1/8” – 5/8”. These prices do not include arbors. Available at www.penntoolco.com .

3) Kurt Manual Power Drawbar – If someone took this tool away from me today, I would be very unhappy. I have used the automatic drawbar but the manual power drawbar is by far the better of the two and half the price. My hat is off to the guy who invented this tool - it is beyond timesaving and into money making. This little gem is priced at $395.00 from www.penntoolco.com . When you buy it, you will only cry once.

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