The NewWoodworker.com LLC Tool Review Process

Real-World Testing, Realistic Evaluation

From Tom Hintz, Owner
NewWoodworker.com LLC

   A common question about the NewWoodworker.com LLC Tool Reviews is why they are mostly positive. The answer is simple, that was the plan.

   I have received thousands of emails regarding potential Tool Reviews, with virtually none asking for reviews on tools considered to be inferior. With very rare exception, they seek more information on features and capabilities of good quality tools and equipment the sender is considering adding to their shop. Also, I seldom do "comparative" reviews because those are far more expensive and even more difficult to do in a way that suits the most viewers. Also, you never seem to compare the right tools for a bunch of viewers who have their own list of criteria and needs for their shop and situation.

   When considering a product for review, I try to get the best I can, just as I would for my shop. It simply does not make sense to devote time and resources to anything but the products my viewers are most interested in. Besides, NewWoodworker.com is not a pure "Tool Review" site. Reviews do represent a large chunk of the overall traffic but most of the resources are devoted to generating the best information and How-To stories that I can.

   As long as woodworkers want to buy good tools, NewWoodworker.com LLC will strive to review them.
   

Real World Evaluations

Products are tested in my home-based woodworking shop under conditions very similar to yours. Though I try to explore the design limits of each tool, we do not exceed its capabilities. Click image to enlarge

   Products are evaluated based primarily on their design capabilities and price point. A $200 tool is not held to $500 standards, just as a $500 tool is not judged by $200 standards. My viewers want the best value for their money and being realistic in my approach to the evaluation process is the best way to quantify the bang for the buck.

   Product evaluations are conducted in my garage-based shop under conditions nearly identical to those my viewers work in. That environment often helps identify special capabilities a tool may possess that make it especially useful in the most common shop configurations.

Though I try to explore the full capability of each product, I am most interested in use levels that can be expected in the normal woodshop. I do not abuse a tool or product just to see if it can take it. Manufacturers instructions packaged with products are followed throughout the evaluation, as they should be in your shop. If you demand $500 capabilities from a $200 tool, save your money - I can tell you now that isn't going to happen.

The Future

   With new, good quality products hitting the marketplace daily, there are plenty of opportunities for NewWoodworker.com LLC to present positive Tool Reviews that are most useful in helping my viewers make informed purchases.

   That is the plan now and for the future.

   Tom Hintz, owner, NewWoodworker.com LLC

As always, I welcome your comments! - Email Me!

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