http://www.tool-rank.com/ 683-161 http://www.tool-rank.com/media/books/the-great-tool-emporium-20100521683/ Although no longer in print, this book is not all that hard to find. It covers quite a lot of tools, from abrasives to zig-zag folding rules. Covers some tools that I wouldn't expect in such a book, like paint brushes and rollers, finish tools for concrete, rulers, squares, levels, and nail pullers and wrecking bars. It also contains most common shop and job site tools like circular and table saws,drills, jointers, lathes and the like. While this book is not really up to date, most tools have not really changed all that much in the last few decades. The history presented in this book while not totally exhaustive, is just long enough to make for interesting reading. Their are some historical pictures and diagrams sprinkled throughout, along with some great photos of tools from the era of the mid to late seventies. The author does a fine job of including both homeowner and professional tools. The only nit I could pick with this book is it did miss some of what I consider to be classic tools of that era. No Black & Decker Sawcats, Skilsaws 77 (the book does feature Milwaukees wormdrive)or Porter Cables routers and porta-band. It does remind of the days when companies like Stanley, Rockwell, Millers Falls and Craftsman made tools for the professional. If your interested in tools, I would highly recommend this book, I think you'll like it. ]]> Fri, 21 May 2010 21:11:42 -0500 513-142 http://www.tool-rank.com/media/books/handyman-in-your-pocket-20090818513/ A great little reference book containing a lot of information. Has a ton of useful tables. Trig,friction loss in pipes,rafter spans, chain strength and weight,wire carrying capacities, you get the idea... This book has everything from anchors to zinc sheet gauge. The only shortcoming in my opinion is that it does not cover larger fasteners, sometimes I do need to know what size pilot hole to drill for a 3/4" lag, other than that I would definitely recommend this book. Reasons for less than perfect score Presentation- small print, I guess that is to be expected in a pocket size book. Quality- This is a paperback book, as such it ends up dog eared in rather short order, if you use it on site much. I would be willing to pay more for a leather bound edition. ]]> Tue, 18 Aug 2009 02:52:36 -0500