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Q As an avid reader of The Family Handyman, I can’t help but wonder if there are any companies that specialize in power tools for the female DIYer. I don’t need the bells and whistles—I’m starting from scratch and need the basic components to start my home renovation. Where do I look?
A By power tools built for women, I assume you mean tools that fit smaller hands, or tools that you can hold comfortably for longer periods. Manufacturers have made many ergonomic improvements to tool grips to make them more comfortable, but most power tool grips still seem designed for large hands. This problem has not gone unnoticed. One company, Tomboy Tools, has met the small-hands issue head-on by developing some tools of its own. For a good discussion and proposed solutions to this problem, see the company’s Web site at www.tomboytools.com.
“Toolless” Single Super Mom
Test a variety of power tools to find those with the most comfortable grip. Among a dozen cordless drills we checked at random at several home centers, this Black & Decker 12-volt drill (model CD120GK; $50) had one of the smallest grips.
To find tools that have smaller or more comfortable grips, go to several power tool dealers that carry a number of brands (Sears, Home Depot, Lowe’s, etc.). Heft the various tools you think you need: at least a power drill, a circular saw and a jigsaw. Usually the better-built tools are heavier. But keep in mind your intended use. You probably won’t need expensive, professional quality tools, which are designed for constant daily use.
Many companies make ergonomic hand tools, and you can usually try out a number of them at home centers. Two online sources worth checking are Rubbermaid (www.rubbermaidtough-tools.com), which has a nice set called Tough Tools, and Ames-True Temper (www.amestruetemper.com), which has a wide range of ergonomic outdoor tools as well as tools for small hands.
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