The Suizan 9.5-inch ryoba is the best Japanese pull saw to buy first because one blade rips and crosscuts, and a Gyokucho 372 or Z-Saw 9.5-inch dozuki is the best second saw for dovetails and fine joinery. The Suizan 10.5-inch kataba suits deep rip cuts and tenon cheeks, the Gyokucho Read more
For most small shops the WEN BA3962 is the best benchtop band saw to start with because its 6-inch cut height is the tallest in the class, while the Rikon 10-3062S is the better pick if you want a stronger half-horsepower motor and a more refined table and guide setup. Read more
The best woods for acoustic guitars are spruce for the top, mahogany or rosewood for the back and sides, and ebony or rosewood for the fretboard, because each species does a specific mechanical job. Spruce is light and stiff, so the top can vibrate freely. Mahogany and rosewood are denser, Read more
Best wood finish for beginners: seven wipe-on oils, from Watco Danish oil to linseed blends, with tint, food-safety notes and a first-project checklist.
Osmo Polyx-Oil vs Rubio Monocoat compared on coats, cure time, upkeep and repairs, with a table and picks for tables, floors, furniture and repairs.
How to strip old varnish from furniture without sanding: choose a chemical stripper, apply it safely, scrape with the grain and clean the wood properly.
How long to wait between coats of Polycrylic: typical recoat times, what changes them, when to sand, and how to avoid tacky, cloudy or bubbly results.
Ten pre-stain conditioner listings for pine compared by base, size and pack, from Minwax to Varathane and kits, with a scrap-board plan against blotching.
Nine Varathane spar urethane listings for exterior doors compared: water-based vs oil-based, quart vs spray, satin, semi-gloss and gloss, plus a coat plan.
Seven General Finishes products compared by job: bowl finish, turner’s finish, gel stains, water based dye and topcoat. Sizes, colors and picks explained.