Gifts for good little putterers
Cottage DIYers on your list this year? Check out master handyman Steve Maxwell’s top picks under
$40.
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Corrosion inhibitors
These plastic canisters and foam sheets, made by Cortec, give off harmless rust-preventing vapours to
protect metal tools and valuables in a closed drawer or box. They’re especially useful in unheated cottages,
where seasonal condensation promotes rust. Less than $10.
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Rope tensioner
These gizmos let you tie down a rope without losing tension, and tighten and release it quickly,
regardless of the situation (or your ability to tie fancy knots). They work well with EZ Grabbit tarp
grippers, too (see g). $5 each.
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Adjustable ratcheting wrench
Ordinary adjustables are handy but slow. The unique ratcheting feature of this tool made by WorkForce lets
you work just as quickly as with a socket wrench, and you’ll never need to hunt for the right socket.
$20.
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Wire-working tool
Just the thing for wire-obsessed putterers, the Clamptite lets you apply tidy wraps of reinforcing wire
around anything that needs structural help (like a broken tool handle). It’s a handsome, well-made tool that
raises the art of jury-rigging to new heights. $32 with wire.
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Multi-pouch nail and screw bag
A sectioned, nylon parachute bag is a simple, inexpensive way to keep fasteners organized and close at
hand. The central strap is easy to grab, even when the bag is fully loaded. Most models come with a
drawstring top, but I find screws stay inside the bag just fine when it’s open. Around $20.
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Magnetic hammer
When you can’t spare a hand to hold a nail while getting it started, a magnet-equipped hammer can help.
This tool includes a small, powerful magnet on top that holds nails securely on the head. Start the nail with
a flick of your wrist, pull the hammer off, then pound the nail home. Some hammers are less than $40.
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Tarp gripper
The inventive two-part EZ Grabbit can be installed anywhere on a tarp to provide a strong tie-down point.
Wrap the tarp around one piece of the device, and slide the other piece overtop, pinching the fabric in
between. Then tie your line through the hole in the outer piece and pull as tight as you want; or screw the
gadget to _a trailer or building for an instant cover or awning. The EZ Grabbit spreads the tension over a
large area, offering tremendous holding power without damaging the tarp. $10 for a package of four.
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Multi-head screwdriver
I’ve been using one of these outstanding Canadian-made Picquic tools for more than 10 years. Each
full-size driver bit slides into its own hole in the handle. Push one out when you need it and slide the bit
into the magnetic tip. $20 or less.
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Bigger budget?
Two power tools that every putterer’s workshop needs: A cordless impact-driver ($200 and up) for
installing fasteners and drilling small holes, and a random orbit sander (starting at $40) for prepping
outdoor wood for finishing. My Porter-Cable 7336 sander is going strong after 15 years of hard use.
Originally published in the Winter 2008 issue of
Cottage Life magazine.
Copyright © 2008 by Cottage Life. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph, or
artwork, for other than personal use, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publisher is
strictly forbidden.
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