Regular vs retractable cable reels

If you're like me you've done a lot of woodworking projects in your garage, and enjoy you're nice quality power tools while doing you DIY projects at home. And, if you're like me you hate having a messy work station whenever you start a new project.

Something you should consider buying is a nice extension cord reel. A nice cord reel can be very helpful in saving you time in organizing your extension cords. You may have seen your neighbor using one. A reel is a device that you wind your power cable around, so the next time you use it, it isn't all knotted up and difficult to lengthen and plug in. If you don't have one, get one! They are so nice to have!

For this article, I'll be comparing retractable extension cord reels against normal reels from the standpoint of which reel would be best for use in your garage. I'm recommending the best type of reel for the typical woodworking project. One that requires a cord that can be used for multiple power tools, and generally not needing to extend the power from the outlet further than 30-40 feet.

There's a lot of talk around the internet about which kind of reel to buy, and which is best, a retractable or the regular hand wound one. I say go the retractable route, even though most of them are not portable. Just think about it, when you're done using your drill or circular saw, you just tug on the cord and it self-winds back onto the wall. Most of them include a self stop, a multi-plug outlet, and a cord of around 30-50 feet.

A retractable extension cord reel is the best to use and the majority of them are built with good quality materials to handle everyday use in your woodworking shop or garage. Be careful not to buy the really cheap, or too economical extension cord reels, as these tend to have a spring that is not built to last over 100 uses, and the plugs can be worn and become loose over time. You don't want your power tools coming unplugged during use, that can really ruin a piece of work.

Now don't get me wrong, I love my normal self-wind reels, and use them for when I'm doing yard work. Normal reels work great with electric yard tools like hedge clippers, leaf blower, weed eaters, etc. They are definitely cheaper than retractable reels, and are portable.

Well, what are you waiting for? Go get a reel today, you'll be asking yourself why you haven't bought one sooner.