MAGNETIC PICK UP TOOL

[morsa]

This tool was made with a discarded radio antenna, a neodymium magnet and a leftover piece of oak.

The handle was shaped at the lathe, and finished with sealer and lacquer; both the magnet and the handle were epoxied to the antenna.

It is very useful for picking up screws or metal parts when they fall out of hand reach.

Although commercial versions of this tool are cheap, doing it by yourself allows the reuse of discarded materials, and grants the (priceless) satisfaction of making your own homemade tools.

[mklotz]

I have several of the commercial models and, yes, they're really handy. My latest one has an LED light integrated into the tip. This increases the utility of the tool by an order of magnitude. You might want to think about adding a small LED flashlight to the tip of yours.

Bonus hint: The magnet will pick up any and all ferrous swarf on the shop floor. Cleaning it can be tediously annoying. Wrap the tip in some Saran wrap or similar, held in place with a bit of wire. When the swarf beard gets too large, simply pull the wrap off over the trash can.

[morsa]

Thanks, mklotz.
I like the idea of adding a LED light to this tool, but to be honest, I don't have the ability for such a task. On the other hand, I love the idea of covering the point to avoid picking up ferrous swarf, and believe me, I will do so.
Thanks again.

[mklotz]

Thanks, mklotz.
I like the idea of adding a LED light to this tool, but to be honest, I don't have the ability for such a task. On the other hand, I love the idea of covering the point to avoid picking up ferrous swarf, and believe me, I will do so.
Thanks again.

Buy one of these...

https://www.amazon.com/Streamlight-7...reamlight+nano

the best keychain flashlight in the world (trust me). It's 1.5" long and can easily be taped to your retrieving rod. It turns on/off by twisting the hood.

I've had one of these on my keychain for several years. It produces daylight white light and can light the sidewalk for ten or so feet in front of me. Highly recommended.

[morsa]

Sorry; I was thinking about installing and wiring a LED light at the tip of the tool.
I didn't know those miniature flashlights; the smallest ones I have are 3.25" long (9 LEDS), and are too heavy to load the antenna tip; I'll try to get one of these miniature keychain flashlight.
Thanks for your advice.

[DIYer]

Thanks morsa! We've added your Magnetic Pickup Tool to our Miscellaneous category,
as well as to your builder page: morsa's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Magnetic Pickup Tool by morsa

tags: magnet, pickup tool