What tools to get first?

I'm starting to get my tools together to start up in Timber Framing. What tools would you suggest I get first? Who would you recommend to get quality long lasting tools?

Do you have any basic carpentry tools? Some of them are the same for timber framing.

Carpenters pencil, I like a hard lead

Framing square

Hand saw. Stanley Sharp tooth is very popular, I've got a bunch of them.

Mallet, I use a 3 lb. leather faced Garland, but there are several styles to choose from, including make your own

Framing chisel for the width of mortise you are cutting. Typically 1.5" or 2"

Combination square

Tape measure

Something to bore the mortise with. T-auger and boring machine are simplest and most reliable, or maybe a heavy electric drill.

Brace and bit for peg holes.

With these tools you can layout and cut a mortise or tenon. Once you get into it, there are plenty of other tools that are handy, like a Big Al layout tool, chalk line, plumb bob etc.

I have purchased 4 or 5 chisels, as well as a few other items, from Jim Rogers and am happy with them all.

Hi,
I'd get some wood first.

Howdy Bishop!!

My best tools are this forum and the books from TFG.
As for the hands on tools, well I agree with Mr. Shepherd on giving Mr. Jim Rogers a email. His list is in this section and he was prompt getting back with me. His prices are more than fair for the quality (probably loosing money) and his dedication to the craft and expertise are second to none.

Happy framing!!

Rich Miller

Your best tools are your own two hands and your head. Use them, especially your head, as much as you possibly can.

Maybe we should think like the ancient Greeks, and consider that a sound body is key to a sound mind.

Learn everything you can, and never think you are done learning. Talk to folks here, they are a wealth of knowledge and insight. Look everywhere, especially in unexpected places, for new ideas and different perspectives. Learn from others across the country and across the globe.

What tools do you need?

Well beyond the two already mentioned, the next most important tool is a METHOD. Decide how you are going to do things. Are you going to go with elaborate joinery, or do you prefer simplicity? Are you going to go modern or old fashioned? Are you going to go the route of SIPs or otherwise? Will you be making just the frame and leaving the rest to other contractors? These things all effect exactly what tools you will need. I would highly recommend allowing your methods to decide your tools, rather than having your tools decide your methods. You'll be much happier that way.

Another very important thing is chisels need to very sharp. I mean razor sharp. My left arm almost always has bald patches from testing tool edges for sharpness. Ok no laughing!

Hello,
So sharpening stones then. A very good point.

A carpenters Axe is very handy for for scoring and rapid waste removal.I use my Axe all the time.

Years ago, I got a list of suggested tools that timber framers should have, from Will Beemer of the guild.

I have added to it from suggestions of others.

Right now it's this list:

Tools for Timber Framing

Layout tools

Calculator (construction type and or scientific)
Chalk line or ink line
Combination square
Framing square
Lumber crayons or chalk
Misc. layout tools: dividers, compass, trammel points, Big Al, Protractor square, parallel line layout ruler, etc
Pencils carpenter and regular
Plumb bob
Stair gauges
Tape measure (16 ft. or 25 ft.)
Utility knife

Hand tools
Adze
Awl
Axe
Block plane (sharp)
Boring machine & bits
Brace & bit (3/4" & 1" auger, and/or set)
Carving tools
Clamps (24" bar or Quik-Grip type)
Corner chisel
Crosscut & rip handsaws
Hammer (16-22 oz. smooth face)
Hand planes (rabbet, smoothing)
Levels (torpedo, 28 in. and/or 48 in.)
Outside dimension calipers
Sharpening files & Sharpening stone
Slick
Timber framing chisel (sharp, 1.5 in. and/or 2 in.)
Tool bag or box
Various size smaller chisels
Wooden or leather head mallet (2-3 lb.)

Power tools
Chain or chisel mortiser
Circular saws (7 1/4 ", 8 1/2", or 16")
Electric hand plane (4", 6" or 12")
Extension cord (#12, 25' minimum)
1/2" electric drill & bits (1" - 1.5" auger and/or set)

Personal Safety Equipment
Ear plugs
Hard hat
Job-site drinking bottle
Nail apron
Safety glasses & Sunglasses
Work gloves
Chaps (when using chainsaws)

Misc: Sawhorses and/or ponies

I hope this list is helpful to you for figuring out what you need in order to do your project.
Jim Rogers