My Favorite Things of 2024
Every year, the Tested network publishes a series of videos with the staff about their favorite things of the year. Here's all the ones from 2024:
I really enjoy these videos. I'm a bit of a tool nerd, so it's a real treat seeing professionals describe some of the tools that have been the most satisfying and productive to use. I think the tools in someone's metaphorical tool belt also say a lot about that person's philosophy of work.
So I thought I should share some my favorite things from 2024! It's not all tools, but a lot of them are.
None of these are affiliate links BTW.
My Favorite Things of 2024
- Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers. I actually received a pair of these last Christmas, used them for a bit, then I lost them :(. Halfway through 2024, I bought a replacement. I had the 4 inch, then I replaced with the 5 inch ones. Both are great, I kind of wish I still had the 4 inchers, since they do not use a push button mechanism to release the jaws, and they are just a little more pocketable. I shuttle my stuff between home and Sequoia Fabrica by bike frequently, so having small tools is really convenient. The pliers themselves are fantastic, they can get a grip on anything, and their unique shape helps prevent rounding over bolt heads.
- Spiral Shank Flush Template Router Bit. Template bits in general have become a new favorite item for me. Along with a laser cutter (or a steady hand at the bandsaw), it has become a total joy to make templates. I'm working on a sign (more on that later), where I had to route out every letter individually. This wouldn't have been possible freehand, but with a palm router, a template bit, and a template, it was a breeze. It's really unlocked new possibilities for me, especially in a small shop.
- Makita Cordless Track Saw. I think any track saw would make me just as excited, but this is the one I got. I bought it used off Craigslist, and it took a little adjusting and getting used to, but this machine is fantastic. In a woodshop without a table saw, it's practically required. My biggest frustration is having to set it up and tear it down every time I use it. However, there are some cool things you can buy or make (or this) that allow for some easier setup and alignment with the track saw, which I hope to find some time to figure out in 2025.
- Nextcloud. Nextcloud is my self-hosted solution to file storage. It's like Google Drive, but I can host everything myself, so there's no question of data ownership, and I have complete control over who can see it, and how I access it.
- IOS Background Sounds. This one might seem a little weird, but always having white noise on my device, without having to fiddle with an app or make sure it's downloaded, is absolutely fantastic. I have tinnitus, so whether I'm home or away, having white noise is a necessity when I sleep. For whatever reason, I've been woefully unimpressed with the market of white noise apps available. Portal is the best I've seen, but I don't want to pay for a subscription since I only use the most basic functions (But if you like it you should buy it! I met Nick, their founder once, and they are a great person making a great product).
Alright so that's the cut for 2024. Maybe I'll do this again at the end of the year/start of next year.