Methodical and Mesmerizing Tool Restoration Videos from Hand Tool Rescue

Workshop
Methodical and Mesmerizing Tool Restoration Videos from Hand Tool Rescue

In a recent DiResta vlog, Jimmy was hanging out with Eric from Hand Tool Rescue, talking about tools and tool restoration. I had never heard of Hand Tool Rescue, but thanks to Jimmy’s recommendation, I spent the weekend binging on a bunch of the videos on the channel.

Eric lives his Saskatchewan, Canada. He lovingly restores hand-, air-, electric-, and fuel-powered tools that range in age from the turn of the 20th century onward. In a DiResta-like style of no-narrative videomaking, Eric shoots from an onlookers POV, using a lot of close-up hand work, showing you each part as he removes it, as he records every step of the disassembly process, the cleaning and repair, the reassembly, and finally, the use of the newly-restored tool.

I find the videos mesmerizing and love what you can learn along the way. There are loads of tips and tricks in these vids. One thing I’m surprised about is how many of the old, ratty, and rusty motors in these machines can be brought back to life with little more than a cleaning, some TLC, and maybe some new brushes.

I tend to be attracted to the restorations where the tool is extremely old and sad looking. There is something magical and inspiring about seeing a dilapidated tool like that being brought back from the dead.

YouTube player
YouTube player
YouTube player
YouTube player

What will the next generation of Make: look like? We’re inviting you to shape the future by investing in Make:. By becoming an investor, you help decide what’s next. The future of Make: is in your hands. Learn More.

Tagged

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.

View more articles by Gareth Branwyn
Discuss this article with the rest of the community on our Discord server!

ADVERTISEMENT

Escape to an island of imagination + innovation as Maker Faire Bay Area returns for its 16th iteration!

Prices Increase in....

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
FEEDBACK