We are ardent tool lovers and are fascinated by innovations that make a tool easier and more convenient to use.

Getting the right tool for the job isn't always as simple as you might think. The most powerful and durable circular saw manufactured is for use by carpenters. Unless you are a carpenter yourself, or a tradesman, such a tool would probably not be a sensible choice. There are many reasons why. Tools made for the trades or for commercial use usually are overkill for most do-it-yourselfers or hobbyists. Here's why:

• Commercial grade tools are the highest-priced ones.
• A commercial tool durable enough to take a beating on a daily basis is made of very heavy materials.
• Besides being heavy, they are large and bulky and are not meant for use in tight places.
• Commercial tools require frequent maintenance.
• Commercial-grade tools are far more powerful than the kinds that are needed for most home projects. All that power can be a problem. Sometimes a tool can be more powerful than is safe for nonprofessionals. Carpentry, for example, is an extremely physical vocation. Most carpenters are very strong. Keeping a high-powered saw from kicking back and cutting something, or a heavy duty drill from twisting a wrist is not an easy thing. The danger of being cut by a circular saw should always be foremost in the mind of the person using the saw.
• Versatility is another problem with the tools that professionals use. Most of their tools are job-specific. One tool is purchased for one job and one job only–eight tasks, eight tools. That's OK if you have a large workshop and storage area, not to mention budget

When it comes to tools, best for you is what best most suits your needs. Twenty-four-volt, battery-operated power tools are best left to those who need wrist-twisting power. On those rare occasions when you need that kind of power, rent the tool. The rest of the time 9-, 12- or 14-volt tools offer a varied, and adequate, range of power depending on the task. And, they are generally lighter in weight and easier to store.

Here's what to look for:

• Buy a well-known brand. Tool manufacturers that have been around forever are not there because they make junk. A well-known brand will usually ensure that you get a well-made tool that will offer more than reasonable lasting quality.
• It should be reasonably priced. For the price of a commercial-grade circular saw you could purchase several home-grade tools.
• The tool should be relatively light in weight. If you are a carpenter or a weightlifter, you can handle more weight than the average person. The tool should be one that you yourself can easily lift. The longer you operate a tool, the heavier it gets; no matter how light it seems when you begin, it's always heavier as the project unfolds. Here's a test: Grip the handle of the tool and hold it at arm's length. Keep it there for about 20 seconds, or more. Once you've tried this experiment, you'll be cautious when you shop.
• You want a tool that will do a job, but not one that will do a job on you.
• Buy entry level tools the first time round. They are inexpensive and will give you a chance to test your skills, not to mention an opportunity to survey frequency of use. You can always step up to mid-range durability, if need be.
• Make sure that you get the most versatility you can for every dollar you spend. For example: one tool company offers a single power unit that can drive multiple tools. A tool of this type can be a real space-saver. The drive motor powers five different tools: 1. an electric screwdriver-drill, 2. a jig saw, 3. a detail sander-polisher, 4. a router and, believe it or not, 5. a circular saw, as well.

Again, the fascinating-looking tools that a carpenter uses can be a problem for a person of average stature and strength. Both of us have had our wrists twisted–and that was back in the days when we were both in peak condition. As we get older and wiser, we look for the lightest tool that will effectively do the job and one that has good balance and ergonomic construction.