Bridge City Tool Works - High-End Woodworking Hand Tools

Have a question that's not answered here? Send it to us and we'll answer it ASAP »

Can I call you to place an order?
Yes, feel free to call us at 1.800.253.3332. Our summer hours are Monday through Thursday, 7 AM to 6 PM.

[top]
What is a blem tool?
Only a slight cosmetic difference turns an otherwise perfect tool into a blem. Our blem tools are functionally identical to their non-blem counterparts.

Unfortunately we do not know what the blem is on each tool. Usually it is a scratch in the metal or wood or a slight discoloration. It never affects the functionality of the tool.
[top]
I registered on the new website, but where do I enter my Founder's Circle number?
Although your customer number is still attached to your account through our backend, it may not be visible when you log into your account. This is because you now sign into your account using your email address and password. [top]
I have a gift certificate I'd like to use towards my order. Why won't the system accept it?
Our new website only accepts gift certificates that have been emailed to you. You'll find a long code within the email consisting of alternating letters and numbers, and you may enter it in the field under "Special Discounts" found on the Shipping information page of the checkout process. If you have a paper gift certificate you'd like to use, please give us a call before you place your order. We can enter the order for you and apply your gift certificate.
[top]
What does "in production" versus "in stock" mean?
“In production” indicates that the tool is currently being manufactured and will be available soon (most items should show an approximate available date). If you can add an item to your cart it is currently in-stock and will ship out now.
[top]
Why doesn't My Account show any of my purchases from before the new website was launched?
It would be great if we could add your past history to the new website. Due to the difference in ordering systems, this is unfortunately not possible. But we will maintain our old ordering system for at least two years (if not longer) for the purpose of referencing and/or tracking past purchases. Moving forward, all of your new orders will be placed through the new website and your new history will be stored there. [top]
How can I add comments to a tool page?
Currently, to add a comment to a tool you would email us and we would add it.
[top]
Why would you want to allow someone to tell another person about a tool that is discontinued and will not be available?
Many of our customers are collectors. They enjoy referencing our tools and this allows them to share any information to their friends who may have our tools, or want to obtain them from a third party seller (i.e., eBay). [top]
Can I get my tools engraved?
Unfortunately, we do not offer engraving. A good option for having a tool engraved once you've received it is to take it to your local jeweler's.
[top]
What is a Commemorative Tool?
Each year we design a special new tool which we produce just a single run of, available exclusively to our Founder's Circle members. Our yearly Commemorative Tool introduction is an eagerly anticipated event by both tool collectors and admirers of beautiful craftsmanship. A particular year's Commemorative Tool may be released at any time during that year, depending on our busy production schedule.
[top]
What does "Forum nickname" mean in my customer profile?
This is a nickname you can use that will show up when you leave a comment on our web pages. This allows you to remain anonymous if you so choose.
[top]
What is the Founder's Circle?
The Founder's Circle is a collective of woodworkers who enjoy receiving discounts on everything they purchase from Bridge City, as well as other benefits. We offer two levels of membership: Founder's Circle ($45 per year), and Founder's Circle Plus ($75 per year). Both levels entitle members to a 10% discount on almost everything we sell. Commemorative Tools are available exclusively to Founder's Circle members, and Plus members receive a 10% discount on them. To join the Circle, simply click on "Founder's Circle Memberships" on the left column and add the level of your choice to your cart. Soon after you've joined, you'll receive a packet in the mail detailing the various benefits of the Circle. A few weeks before your membership is scheduled to expire, we will send you an email (or a letter, if you do not have an email address) to let you know whether we are able to automatically renew you. If you do not wish to renew, just let us know.
[top]
Your tools are so cool! How can I be sure I don't miss one?
Because our company is very small and our designer's list of ideas is very large, our production runs are often limited and if something sells out, we don't necessarily have room in our production schedule to make it again right away. Our Automatic Order program is a great way for Founder's Circle members never to miss a tool introduction. When a new tool is released, we will ship it to you and charge your preferred payment method. Members receive an extra 2% discount on all Auto-Order items. It's also no-risk; if you receive a tool and decide not to keep it, just give us a call and we'll arrange to pick it up. To sign up for Auto-Order, contact us by phone or email, or mail in the form included with your Founder's Circle packet. [top]
I really want one of your planes, but my wife will kill me if I spend that much at once. What is your "Easy Pay" option and how does it work?
Our tools cost what they do because we are committed to producing the highest quality tools possible, made only here in the U.S. We don't believe that cost should be a barrier, however, and do our best to offer payment options when possible. We are happy to offer Easy Pay on many of our higher cost items. All Founder's Circle members (with accounts in good standing) are eligible to use Easy Pay. Payments are applied to your credit card once per month, on or about the same day of the month as your original order. The maximum number of payments varies per tool. Email or call us if you have any questions or trouble using Easy Pay in your order! [top]
When you build a box and separate the top from the bottom with a table saw; invariably there will be an irregularity between the two sections. Which of your planes would you recommend be best used in this type of application?
Depends upon the wall thickness. For box work, we would recommend you use a low angle block plane for this purpose.
[top]
How do I clean my tools?
All tools needs periodic care and cleaning. Apply a high quality paste wax to refurbish all wood and brass surface patter on the brass. Once the wax has set, buff by hand with a clean cloth.
[top]
Are the archived tools available for sale?
Items that are noted as archived are out of production and not available for sale. They are listed and shown on our site for reference purposes. Archived items (which are not also Commemorative Tools) may return to production in the future. If a "Notify me when this item is back in stock" button is visible, you may add your name to our notification list. If any estimated production date is known, it will be listed. If the button is not visible, it is unlikely this item will be produced again.
[top]
Can I visit your shop?
We no longer have a shop facility open to the public but you are welcome to visit our showroom. You can find directions here.
[top]

Product Search

Receive Our Special Offers

Sales & Specials