Why Are Woodpeckers Tools So Expensive? A Shop Teacher's Review

I've been teaching high school shop class for over 20 years. That means I've seen just about every brand of tool come through my classroom—some great, some not worth the metal they're made from. So when someone asks me, “Why are Woodpeckers tools so expensive?” I’ve got a simple answer: because they’re worth it.

Built to Survive Teenagers

Let’s start with durability. Most tools aren't made to survive a semester with teenagers, let alone a career in education. But Woodpeckers? These are tools you can pass on to the next generation. I’ve got Woodpeckers squares and miter gauges in my classroom that have taken daily abuse for years—and they still perform like the day I unboxed them.

Take the Woodpeckers Mini In-Dexable Combo Square, for example. Precision-machined, beautifully balanced, and virtually indestructible. When a student picks up a tool like that, they notice the difference right away. That’s the kind of experience that fosters pride in craftsmanship.

Precision Makes All the Difference

Cheap tools make my students frustrated. They ruin joints, throw off measurements, and make woodworking feel more like guesswork. A Woodpeckers miter gauge with a precision fence and stop? That’s a whole different experience. With precise, reliable tools, students can focus on learning the craft—not fighting with their gear.

Made in the USA

There’s also something to be said for knowing where your tools come from. Woodpeckers tools are made right in Strongsville, Ohio. That means quality control, pride in manufacturing, and supporting American jobs—all things I’m happy to stand behind.

Why I Use Amana Tools Too

When it comes to router bits and saw blades, I’ve had the best luck with Amana Tool router bits and saw blades. The carbide stays sharp, the cut quality is fantastic, and they don’t chip or burn out after a few student projects. Like Woodpeckers, Amana makes tools that last—and that's worth every penny.

Why I Buy from ToolsToday

I order most of my tools from ToolsToday.com. They’re reliable, their shipping is quick, and they stand behind what they sell. As an educator, I also appreciate their discount program for teachers. It makes it a little easier to keep my classroom stocked with the good stuff, without cutting corners.

The Bottom Line

Yes, Woodpeckers tools are expensive. But in my experience, you either pay up front for quality—or you pay later replacing cheap tools. In a shop classroom, you can’t afford tools that fail. That’s why I stick with brands like Woodpeckers and Amana, and why I trust ToolsToday to keep my program running smoothly.