What is a tool polisher?!

[BFBOB]

WOW. I didn't know what you meant by fluffer so I did a google search and ya... Not what I was referring to.
Hi Rick! Keep coming it works!

Old joke -- mother bragging to a friend about how well her daughter is doing in Hollywood - she's already in the movies, well not on screen yet, but she's working in the studio - I think she has something to do with the sets - furniture - she's called a fluffer.

 

[SuperCheyenne]

First off I don't think the term tool polisher is derogatory but perhaps missapplied.

When I think of "tool polishers" I really think of "tool collectors". And there's nothing wrong with having tool collecting as a hobby/past time.

 

[Qualitytools]

I clean my tools after each use before I put hem back because there are times I want to reach for a tool when I have clean hands a clean clothe and don't want to get dirty. Other times I am dressed to tackle a job, (mainly on the house or car) so I don't think I am a tool polisher but I like to start with a clean tool

 

[Infinia]

Well.... You have 2.73 posts a day and you joined in October, so are you saying you're a tool polisher?

No No , not from your definition at least.
From my perspective I can lose focus of the real task at hand.
yes indeed I like the tools sometimes too much.

 

[BFBOB]

One way or another I match some of the definitions of "Tool Polisher" here - but I also match the definition of "slob".
Yeah, I have tools I've gotten just because they're neat looking, and haven't used (yet). Thanks, SuperCheyenne for validating me (or is that being an enabler?)
I guess my most irrational obsession is rust. A little rust isn't detrimental to a tool's usefulness, but I can't stand it. I'll e-tank it or acid dip it off, and then wirebrush the pitting to make it shinier and follow up with WD40 to keep it looking nice(r). Totally useless effort, but it makes me happy.
And I don't have OCD.

I have CDO (ya gotta alphabetize it).

 

[Fedwrench]

A person that complains about a tool's imperfections without ever using it.

A close second would those people who have severe OCD and search out socket sizes in shallow & Deep that they will never use just to fill a peg on a Hanson socket rack

 

[MikeF2316]

My definition would say that tools are completely unused. I've even seen "never been on a ratchet" used to describe sockets.

I'll admit to having some tools that are unused. A few years ago I needed a crow's foot wrench for something. I'd never owned a crow's foot before, but I could think of a few situations where having one would have made the job easier. So instead of buying just the one I needed, I bought a whole set, both metric and SAE. I believe I've still only used the one.

But I wouldn't want to buy a new ratchet that was all scratched up. New is new, new means no scratches. I don't mind scratches, but on something I buy new, all the scratches need to be mine. But I've still got all my original wrenches, most of my original sockets (broke a couple) from 40 years ago. I like their patina.

 

[kythri]

I certainly meet a couple of these definitions - I've got 50+ ratchets, and I've searched out sockets to fill my Kobalt Hansen knock-off trays.

I've certainly got far more tools than I *need* but certainly less than I *want* ...

That said, I don't presently have a single tool that I refuse to use - everything is available for use, including the Craftsman "collectible" gold-plated ratchet I bought on clearance many years ago - it's seen use as well...

A usable-and-used-collection, if you will... Far more impractical things for me to collect!

 

[archirelic]

I see nothing wrong with a person collecting tools, all set up nice & neat in a box seeing minimal use or not any use at all. To each their own with regards to hobbies / collections, etc. Most everyone collects something...be it tools, flags, license plates...the list could go on and on.

The PROBLEM, in my opinion, develops when said collectors of tools...who have no real applicable knowledge in their use start to throw around their very aggressive opinions on brands, usage, and how to go about accomplishing a task with said collected tools. That's the part that irks me the most with "tool polishers."

Outside of the reasons I stated above, I never see the reason why someone is always belittled or poked fun at for having duplicates of their tools that perhaps have never seen usage or having their tools neat & clean after minimal use.

I'm not a mechanic by trade and have never worked in that field. I do, however, know my way around a number of vehicles...maintain my own personal vehicles...help with friends and family's vehicles as well.

My skill-set lies in building & construction / demolition and am currently an architectural intern on my way to becoming licensed Architect, but do appreciate quality tools and am very fastidious with regards to cleaning up after usage.

I probably own more tools than necessary [duplicates on many] to maintain my vehicles and work on my own little projects here & there, but all have seen usage and all are cleaned and maintained b/c I like to maintain and keep things in good working order. I take pride in my purchases and actually know how to use what I do buy.

For what I do and how often I do utilize my tools, one could say I don't need or require some of the more expensive brands...Snap-On, Armstrong, etc, but I do appreciate quality and financially can afford said brands by buying second-hand. I'm definitely not afraid to use anything I purchase, but also like to clean up when finished with whatever task I've completed. My lifestyle and vocation affords me the ability to keep my tools clean since they're not used on a daily basis.

 

[gdocktor3]

The PROBLEM, in my opinion, develops when said collectors of tools...who have no real applicable knowledge in their use start to throw around their very aggressive opinions on brands, usage, and how to go about accomplishing a task with said collected tools. That's the part that irks me the most with "tool polishers..

This is a winner

 

[Brian_WK]

I see a tool polisher as a person that buys allot of expensive tools boxes and such. Brags about them and shows them off but never uses them. Basicly a tool art collector.

Brian

 

[Firebrick43]

Tool polisher. Individual (or individuals) that have reserved spots for there knees under their bosses desk. Aka brown noser, **** ups,and sycophants. Symptoms include no respect from fellow employees, reduced gag reflex, and high protein diets.

 

[Citation]

I wouldn't consider it overly derogatory. I would say anyone who is more interested in the tools vs the job is a tool polisher. So if you buy the tools because you like it vs because it helps you complete a job better/faster/etc then you are being a tool polisher. I think tool monger is a similar thing.

So if you bougth a SO wrench set even though your Cman wrench set never let you down and did every job you ever asked of it then you are being a tool polisher. You bought the SO set because they are Snap-On vs because your current tools let you down. The same is true if you buy a Fluke multimeter instead of a cheaper decent meter or if you buy a big 80 gallon 7.5hp Champion air compressor instead of a Husky 3hp compressor to run your 1/2" impact wrench.

I'm a bit of a tool monger myself. I like having a big collection of tools (big relative to most people, not people around here). I like having high quality tools like my Fluke 187, Mitutoyo calipers etc even though in many cases something cheaper would suit me needs just as well. I'm sure if I had a Snap-on dual 80 I would love using it even though it doesn't really do what I need any better than my current ratchets.

 

[Farmall 1066]

Guess I'm whatever the opposite of Tool polisher is.
I don't like my tools covered in filth, but I prefer well-worn patina. Makes me happy to see wear on chrome and knurling, those dings and scratches that tell stories. That melted screwdriver handle that pissed me off when it happened, but now brings to mind the fun we had tractor pulling. The much brighter chrome on my S/o 11/8" wrench, replaced after broken replacing drive belt on a combine on a 10degree day.
The crude file nicks in tools that were my uncles. 1 nick was uncle Harold, 2 is Dad, 3 was uncle Jim...3 brothers who farmed together, and had their own system to number tools.
Names and initials etched or engraved by former owners, friends, neighbors, co-workers, mentors...these all remind me of good times and good people.
My S-K 3/4 set has the owners name painted on the box and engraved on each piece. Bought it on a garage sale..owner was dying and selling off his stuff. Sat and talked for an hour, with him telling me how hard it was to come up with $ to buy it new in the 60's.
Gordon M....met him for an hour, but he's been with me for years, in spirit.
I'll take honest patina every damn time.

 

[FJ 432]

I see a tool polisher as a person that buys allot of expensive tools boxes and such. Brags about them and shows them off but never uses them. Basicly a tool art collector.

Brian

This would be me.

 

[kwschumm]

I admit to being a tool polisher since I have purchased tools that have not yet been used. Some deals are too good to pass up!

 

[Philbert]

I use multiple tools for repairsale at home. I always clean them up when I'm done. I might not touch that tool for years. There there are the tool that I touch daily. But my wife helps me keeping my tool clean.

 

[M6erfan]

I see nothing wrong with a person collecting tools, all set up nice & neat in a box seeing minimal use or not any use at all. To each their own with regards to hobbies / collections, etc. Most everyone collects something...be it tools, flags, license plates...the list could go on and on.

The PROBLEM, in my opinion, develops when said collectors of tools...who have no real applicable knowledge in their use start to throw around their very aggressive opinions on brands, usage, and how to go about accomplishing a task with said collected tools. That's the part that irks me the most with "tool polishers."

Outside of the reasons I stated above, I never see the reason why someone is always belittled or poked fun at for having duplicates of their tools that perhaps have never seen usage or having their tools neat & clean after minimal use.

I'm not a mechanic by trade and have never worked in that field. I do, however, know my way around a number of vehicles...maintain my own personal vehicles...help with friends and family's vehicles as well.

My skill-set lies in building & construction / demolition and am currently an architectural intern on my way to becoming licensed Architect, but do appreciate quality tools and am very fastidious with regards to cleaning up after usage.

I probably own more tools than necessary [duplicates on many] to maintain my vehicles and work on my own little projects here & there, but all have seen usage and all are cleaned and maintained b/c I like to maintain and keep things in good working order. I take pride in my purchases and actually know how to use what I do buy.

For what I do and how often I do utilize my tools, one could say I don't need or require some of the more expensive brands...Snap-On, Armstrong, etc, but I do appreciate quality and financially can afford said brands by buying second-hand. I'm definitely not afraid to use anything I purchase, but also like to clean up when finished with whatever task I've completed. My lifestyle and vocation affords me the ability to keep my tools clean since they're not used on a daily basis.

Well said

 

[Corndoggeh]

A person that complains about a tool's imperfections without ever using it.

A close second would those people who have severe OCD and search out socket sizes in shallow & Deep that they will never use just to fill a peg on a Hanson socket rack

Aw man why you gotta call me out like that about the sockets I just like to be prepared.


I would call a tool polisher someone that buys tools for the sake of looking "like a real man" but never actually using them IE: hipsters and lumbersexuals

 

[chrisnazzy]

Such a fine line between "Tool Polisher" and someone who is/has "OCD" about their tools quality and organization. I'm probably a little of both.

I'm a "Tool Polisher" because:

1.) I buy quality tools that are technically speaking more than I may need for the volume and depth of work I perform at home. I can afford to do so and value the investment so why not?

2.) I thoroughly enjoy organizing these tools in such away that every tool has a place and doesn't move around in my toolbox. I do wipe my tools down after each use so it makes everything easier to inventory and put away.

3.) I have a thing for colors in that I dig SO orange hard handles and well laid out red blow molded cases. I also have a Black/Yellow theme going on in my garage.

How I differ from a "Tool Polisher" in the derogatory sense:

1.) I don't look down on anyone here who has a nicer set of tools than me or anyone whose toolbox is not organized at all. We are all here because just using the tools we own isn't enough. We are in some way looking to read, share, learn, research or chat about tools and how we use them.

2.) I own Snap-on, Mac, Matco, Craftsman, Sunex, Harbor Freight, Gearwrench, Trusty Cook, S-K, Husky, Milwaukee as well as many others but I don't preach about or look down on anyone else who owns, uses or swears by any thing else.

3.) There isn't a tool in my toolbox that I wouldn't use. That's not to say there aren't some that haven't been used, just that they are all there to use if needed, not just look at. If asked to bring my tools to my shop and fill in for one of our techs I would gladly do so. Now I would purchase a toolbox cover and still wipe everything down at the end of the day but that's my OCD.


I've worked with several mechanics who take necessary steps each day to keep their tools clean and organized. To say anyone who keeps their tools clean and neatly organized each day is a "Tool Polisher" would be a stretch and would probably unnecessarily include a very large % of GJ members.

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[BDT/NWMN]

Everyone is a tool polisher according to someone else; and the level of that person's standards.. The level of these standards is like a stairway leading into the clouds. Be sure to use the handrail.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I guess I would be called a tool polisher, I do a very small amount of work on my own rigs. I used to do a lot more. But after a back injury, It is very hard for me to work on my own rigs. At this point in my life my time is more valuable to me. I have a friend who owns a oil change place who change my oil for free. Why would you do it your self. I used to not think any thing about rebuilding an engine or R&R on one, but now in my older age, it just hurts me too much. Why work on some thing and then be bed ridden for a week and be in uncontrolled pain. So I guess I would fall into that category, If I find a great deal on tools I will buy them. Some times I will try to help some one else out and help them on their car project. I just know how long I can play with out paying for it for days. Just a little at a time.

 

[Waggoner72]

I think I would fall into the tool polisher category. I have a 14ft long Snap on Epiq Toolbox that is filled in my personal home garage... I'm not a mechanic by trade but I do all my own work when I decide to do something.

 

[gdocktor3]

^We'll let you slide because that's an awesome setup.

 

[Cope]

I think I would fall into the tool polisher category. I have a 14ft long Snap on Epiq Toolbox that is filled in my personal home garage... I'm not a mechanic by trade but I do all my own work when I decide to do something.

Where did you get the green round magnetic holder?

 

[Cope]

I see nothing wrong with a person collecting tools, all set up nice & neat in a box seeing minimal use or not any use at all. To each their own with regards to hobbies / collections, etc. Most everyone collects something...be it tools, flags, license plates...the list could go on and on.

The PROBLEM, in my opinion, develops when said collectors of tools...who have no real applicable knowledge in their use start to throw around their very aggressive opinions on brands, usage, and how to go about accomplishing a task with said collected tools. That's the part that irks me the most with "tool polishers."

Outside of the reasons I stated above, I never see the reason why someone is always belittled or poked fun at for having duplicates of their tools that perhaps have never seen usage or having their tools neat & clean after minimal use.

I'm not a mechanic by trade and have never worked in that field. I do, however, know my way around a number of vehicles...maintain my own personal vehicles...help with friends and family's vehicles as well.

My skill-set lies in building & construction / demolition and am currently an architectural intern on my way to becoming licensed Architect, but do appreciate quality tools and am very fastidious with regards to cleaning up after usage.

I probably own more tools than necessary [duplicates on many] to maintain my vehicles and work on my own little projects here & there, but all have seen usage and all are cleaned and maintained b/c I like to maintain and keep things in good working order. I take pride in my purchases and actually know how to use what I do buy.

For what I do and how often I do utilize my tools, one could say I don't need or require some of the more expensive brands...Snap-On, Armstrong, etc, but I do appreciate quality and financially can afford said brands by buying second-hand. I'm definitely not afraid to use anything I purchase, but also like to clean up when finished with whatever task I've completed. My lifestyle and vocation affords me the ability to keep my tools clean since they're not used on a daily basis.

Well written, thanks.

 

[Waggoner72]

Where did you get the green round magnetic holder?

Out of all the stuff I have, everyone always asks me about those lol.
I believe I got them a while back from like princess auto for $6 a piece. I just tried to find them again and this was the only place I could find them. They are made by grip tools.
https://www.magnetickings.com/shop/socket-holders/socket-base-set/

 

[Cope]

Out of all the stuff I have, everyone always asks me about those lol.
I believe I got them a while back from like princess auto for $6 a piece. I just tried to find them again and this was the only place I could find them. They are made by grip tools.
https://www.magnetickings.com/shop/socket-holders/socket-base-set/

Thanks, those are great for drive adapters , short extensions and such.

 

[PavelK313]

I guess one can consider me a tool polisher but thats why i hate dirty tools. I clean mine before putting them back in the box and the use the cap out of them the next time.
Picture is after i got done swapping oil pan and steering rack and and one after i cleaned it.

 

[KM223]

I'm a tool polisher. WTF you gonna do about it?!

 

[OCD]

Awesome post chrisnazzy!!

Cheers!!

 

[Empty Pockets]

I guess I would be called a tool polisher, I do a very small amount of work on my own rigs. I used to do a lot more. But after a back injury, It is very hard for me to work on my own rigs. At this point in my life my time is more valuable to me. I have a friend who owns a oil change place who change my oil for free. Why would you do it your self. I used to not think any thing about rebuilding an engine or R&R on one, but now in my older age, it just hurts me too much. Why work on some thing and then be bed ridden for a week and be in uncontrolled pain. So I guess I would fall into that category, If I find a great deal on tools I will buy them. Some times I will try to help some one else out and help them on their car project. I just know how long I can play with out paying for it for days. Just a little at a time.

Richard - I have to admit, I am in a similar situation as you. I'm rapidly approaching retirement, and while I still like to do mechanical work, the body doesn't always cooperate. If one of the kids needs help or a tool to do a job, I'm always happy to help, often it's just verbal instruction.

As to a tool polisher / collector, I have many tools which are duplicates or more. Many of these came in box lots at various auctions where I wanted one or two items in the lot. This still happens

My first purge of duplicate tools came when my kids came of age, and they were gifted a set of good quality tools. The next purge will come when the grandkids get a little older. They will be shown how to use them, then I'll gift them a set.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I retired the first time in 2001 and couldn't sit still and went back to work out of boredom, Not that the extra money is not good also.
If some of the family comes up and needs help I will get them the tools that they need and help them what I can and coach them on their repairs. After we are finish, all the used tools go into a cardboard box, the next time I am out in the garage I clean them up and put them back into my box where they belong so that I will be able find them next time. Richard

 

[derosa]

I'm something of a tool polisher and just don't care. I had a full set of gearwrench xl ratchet wrenches but still bought wright in the same run and my MIL bought me a set of flex head ratchet wrenches, all three in metric. Now I don't need three sets but I do use them on a semi-regular basis and they all get used. I plan to buy the set of SK 1/2 impacts, honestly I have no idea what I would ever do with 8-12mm impact but I do need 19,21,24,30, and 36mm on my cars and so I see nothing wrong with paying 160 knowing that the ones I for certain need will individually cost close to that and I may get infrequent use out of some of the others while some will never get used.
I did buy a full set of wright sae wrenches, I've always gotten by with my barely used sae sockets but felt the need for a set because I want it. A couple have been used now but I know most will never be and I could do without them, I don't care, I can afford them and I like having them. I fully plan of buying, between wright, SK and bondhus duplicates of every tool I own, even the ones that aren't used much. I'm 40 now and I want to be able to use the nicer tools I couldn't afford when I was younger and using them more. The nicer stuff is what I will use and the old craftsman and mishmash is what my kids 6,4,&2 will learn to use tools with and loose or ruin just like I did to my dad's.
Nope, I don't need all of them, yup I want them and I will use them any time the opportunity arises but I am probably what most would consider a tool polisher, I'm proud of it and I don't care.
Side note, I'm actually lousy at polishing the tools as I tend to just toss them back where they belong without cleaning them up unless they're really bad.

 

[metaldad]

my modest 'polished' collection. not as extensive, or expensive, as the excellent collection by Waggoner
drawers on the right are polished armstrong, and the finish is a+. not used. especially now that the armstrong name is going away.
the larger drawers on the left are the abusers.

 

[Al Borland]

Can't stand dirty/beat up tools in my toolbox, but I don't have a problem getting them dirty/beat up/abused. I clean them after use, and when they are beat more than I can stand, I buy new ones and the old ones become loaners for the work crew. Been doing it for years, and some of my guys now have some good (uglified) tools.
I'm happy, they're happy, the jobs get done. Everyone wins. (Except the tools I abused, ***** to be them)
I also have a box full of older tools that were my grandfathers, my father-in-laws, etc. They are there for sentimental reasons. And they get used sometimes, just not abused.
And if I could get the new tools at a reasonable price non-chromed, I would, because the scratched/scraped/peeling chrome is what gets tools sent down to the minor league.

 

[Citation]

I would never claim someone who cleans off their tools at the end of a job was acting like a poser of any sort. Keeping tools clean is useful since it means the next time you reach into the tool box your hands don't get dirty. I do many jobs that result in dirty hands. I also do some that don't. I don't want my hands to get dirty because I happened to grab a dirty wrench. Clean up and keeping tools organized so you can find them is something that just makes sense most of the time, kind of like having a clean shop. It doesn't ensure good work but it doesn't hurt.

I like Corndoggeh's definition.

 

[md21722]

I always thought a "tool polisher" was a derogatory term describing a person who cared more about the tool than getting the job done. Or as Rivenn said in post #36 "Anyone who thinks the tools are the end, not the means."

 

[Travisnd]

I collect tools, no doubt about it, along with a few other things. I even have tools still in the wrapper. I also have a 5 and 7 year old that I hope one day will be into tools as well and hope to pass the tools along. So far, there seems to be a interest in tools for them. We will see how that goes!

 

[r_olson_06]

The people that have 50 ratchets but claim they use them all because "there's a use for each one"


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Whoa that was close. I am glad I have over 50. I thought I was falling into the "wrong crowd"[emoji6]

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