I'm new to hand tools and facing a challenge due to my hyperacusis, a condition that makes loud sounds unbearable. Since I can't use power tools, I'm looking to rewire some electrical circuits in my house while other renovations are happening. I have some previous experience with wiring, so I need recommendations for hand tools specifically. I need to drill a 3/4" hole in a stud, and I'm thinking about using an egg beater drill, but I'm not sure if that's the right choice. I also need to pull up some tongue and groove subfloor, which may involve making plunge cuts and cutting out boards. Any guidance on what drills and saws would work best for this kind of work, especially for quieter options? Any other essential hand tools would be appreciated too. Thanks!
3 Answers
I've tackled a rewire myself using mostly hand tools due to having to keep the noise down. For drilling those 3/4" holes, an egg beater drill won't have the torque you need. Instead, go for a brace and bit setup—those are much more effective, especially with special augers that fit the square shank. I found Milwaukee Speed Demon spade bits work like a charm; they're aggressive and perfect for pulling through pine. Just a heads up though, navigating tight spaces can be tricky with a brace! It might save you a lot of hassle if you could use a quieter power drill with ear protection if it's an option at all. For cutting out floorboards, I suggest looking at an "azebiki" saw or even a ryoba, though you'll need to switch to a metal blade for any nails. Don't forget, a hammer will always be loud, so double up on ear protection!
Have you looked into modern hearing protection? There are some really advanced options now, especially for situations like yours—like active noise cancellation—it's worth considering!
You definitely want a brace with a set of good bits instead of an eggbeater for those 3/4" holes. Check out the Stanley #984 close quarters brace; it's really handy for tight spots. Just be cautious in those tight areas; a little patience goes a long way!
Absolutely! The latest advancements for things like shooting are incredible and can really help you manage noise while working.