ToolGuyd reader Jon C. gave us a nudge and suggested that we mention a new “instructional” video series that can be found on YouTube. Hot for Tools features a young woman, Erica, who offers brief tools demos and how-to tutorials.
We’ve actually been following Hot for Tools since their first video, but wanted to wait until it matured a bit before commenting on the series. We praise what Hot for Tools is trying to accomplish, and while we do enjoy the clips, they have the potential to be even better. Following are a few criticisms and suggestions:
1.The viewers’ attention can only be focused on either the tools or the host’s figure at any given time, never both. The host should keep this in mind.
2. Some of the comments are a bit risque, which is okay, as long as they don’t go overboard. e.g. a video title such as “Get Hung” sacrifices clarity for cheap giggles.
3. Lack of SAFETY! It seems that safety measures were outright ignored during filming of the most recent door installation video. More on this below.
4. The videos could be longer and more detailed. Give us guys some credit – our attention span is longer than 2 minutes, especially if the host mixes things up as she’s been doing.
This is a screenshot from Erica’s most recent video “Get Hung.”
In the grout-removal video, there was no mention of safety glasses, a dust mask, or hearing protection, but we could not see the host’s face during the demo. In this video, we see Erica’s face and the absense of eye protection is obvious. In an instructional video, it is the host’s responsibility to at least mention proper safety equipment and precautions.
I have one more issue about this scene. Take a look at Erica’s hair and how it dangles dangerously close to the drill. The personal injury risk that this creates is completely unacceptable.
Furthermore, lax personal safety measures has the potential to reduces one’s credibility.
With all that said, I do find the video series to be entertaining (I especially enjoyed the SawStop demo), and look forward to following the series as it matures.
Hot for Tools seems to be either owned or heavily sponsored by Tool King.
Thanks again, Jon, for the nudge! Don’t forget that you too can contact us to suggest a tool or topic.
