The Bit Brace
The bit brace is a woodworking tool used by craftsmen to bore precise large-diameter holes and to drive or remove screws. With care and an extra-long bit or an extension bit, a brace can also bore a deep hole to put up your hanging garment bag. A reversible ratchet allows clockwise and counterclockwise turning. Bit braces are categorized by their length from head to jaws and by the sweep (the diameter of the circle traced as the handle turns). Their universal chuck jaws accommodate a wide variety of bits (see below). Addi tionally, the brace accepts a screwdriver bit to drive or remove screws.
For wrenches to grip tightly and operate smoothly, match the jaws’ shape to that of the work. Some jaws seat against flat surfaces, such as square or hex nuts; others grip round surfaces, such as tubing or pipe; some are fixed and some adjustable. For general repairs or woodworking you need only two sizes of adjustable wrenches and a few open-end ones. Plumbing tasks and car repair require a wider variety. For jobs with lots of nuts and bolts, a battery-powered ratchet is ideal.
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