Robert McDonald is the founder and president of Skookum Tools Ltd. and the driving force behind Skookum Tools and Online Supply, a premier e-commerce destination for industrial supplies. With over three decades of experience in the tooling and supply industry, Robert has cultivated a deep understanding of the unique needs of manufacturers, tradespeople, and hobbyists alike.
A passionate advocate for quality craftsmanship, Robert's journey began with a commitment to delivering top-tier tools and supplies to empower his customers to achieve exceptional results. Robert's expertise ensures that Skookum Tools offers a curated selection of reliable, high-performance products.
Robert enjoys sharing insights on efficiency, innovation, and industry trends. His writing reflects his dedication to helping customers succeed, whether they’re tackling DIY projects or managing large-scale industrial operations.
Global Carbide Supply Disruptions – What It Means for End Mill Pricing
If you’ve been buying carbide tooling lately, you’ve probably heard the same thing from suppliers across the industry: prices are moving fast.
The reason isn’t speculation or market hype. It’s a real and rapidly developing global supply issue tied directly to tungsten — the key raw material used to produce carbide tooling like end mills, drills, and burrs.
Here’s a clear look at what’s happening, why carbide prices are rising, and what we’re doing at Skookum Tools to manage the impact.
Carbide Rod Prices Are R..
In metal fabrication, choosing the correct abrasive belt is the difference between a flawless finish and costly rework. The right belt improves surface quality, speeds production, and reduces waste — while the wrong one burns, clogs, or wears out prematurely.
At OnlineSupply.ca, we offer a wide range of custom-made abrasive belts made in Canada, built from premium European and South Korean materials. Here’s how to pick the best belt for your job.
Understanding Abrasive Belt Basics
An abrasive belt consists of three key components:
Backing: Paper or cloth — each off..
25 Years Skookum Strong
For a quarter of a century, Skookum Tools Ltd. has been more than just a name — it’s been a promise. A promise of quality, durability, and Canadian craftsmanship that makers across the country can count on.
What started as a mobile tool store in 2000 quickly grew into a franchise and, by 2005, into a fully established e-commerce company with the launch of OnlineSupply.ca. From those early days, our mission has been simple: bring professional-grade tooling and abrasives to Canadian makers without compromise. Today, Skookum Tools is trusted nationwide for ban..
Shipping to the United States – Tariff & Duty Information
At OnlineSupply.ca (operated by Skookum Tools Ltd.), we value our U.S. customers and want to make it clear how tariffs, duties, and taxes may apply when shipping from Canada to the United States. Below is a transparent explanation of what to expect and how we help minimize surprises.
What Does DDU Mean?
All orders shipped from Canada to the United States are sent under Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms. This means that your order total at checkout covers the cost of products and shipping only.
Any import dutie..
If you've recently shopped for bandsaw blades in Canada, you may have noticed a sharp increase in the price of Wood-Mizer products. Many sawyers and mill owners are asking the same questions: What’s behind the price jump? Is it temporary? And are there any alternatives that offer the same quality without the extra cost?
Let’s break down what’s going on—and what Canadian operators can do to keep their costs in check.
The Cause: New Canadian Tariffs on U.S. Goods
In response to a series of U.S. trade measures earlier this year, the Government of Canada imposed 25% tariffs on a wide ra..
Chatter.
If you've spent any time in a machine shop, you’ve probably heard it—literally. That high-pitched squeal, the vibration marks on your finish, or worse—snapped tools. Chatter can be one of the most frustrating challenges in milling, costing time, money, and part quality.
At Skookum Tools, we’ve engineered our end mills specifically to help machinists reduce or eliminate chatter, so you can focus on what matters: precision, productivity, and performance.
What Is Chatter and Why Is It a Problem?
Chatter is the result of self-excited vibrations between your cutting tool and the ..
Proudly Canadian: Skookum Tools Ltd. and Our Commitment to Canadian Manufacturing
At Skookum Tools Ltd., the parent company of Online Supply, we take immense pride in being a Canadian-owned and operated business. For over two decades, we have been serving industries across the country with high-quality industrial tools and supplies, always striving to support local manufacturing and Canadian workers.
Supporting Canadian-Made Products
Our commitment to Canadian-made products goes beyond just business—it’s about investing in our economy, ensuring jobs remain within our borders, and main..
If you're searching for the ideal gift for the woodworker, metalworker, or craftsman in your life, Skookum Tools has you covered. Whether they’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, Skookum offers a range of high-quality tools and accessories designed to elevate their craft. Here’s a curated list of top Skookum Tools products that make fantastic gifts for any occasion.
Whether its Christmas, a birthday, anniversary or any other occasion, Skookum Tools is here to help make that day special!
1. Bandsaw Blades
A high-quality bandsaw blade is essential for any wo..
Skookum High Performance and Ultra High Performance Carbide End Mills: Revolutionizing Metal Cutting
In the world of CNC machining, choosing the right tool for the job has always been crucial for efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. Traditionally, roughing end mills have been the go-to choice for removing material quickly, with finishing tools stepping in for the final touches. However, the introduction of Skookum High Performance (HP) and Ultra High Performance (UHP) carbide end mills has shifted the paradigm, making roughing end mills a thing of the past.
The Evolution o..
The Benefits of Sharpening Woodworking and Metalworking Tools vs. Replacing Them
In both woodworking and metalworking, sharp tools are essential for achieving precision and efficiency. However, with regular use, even the finest tools inevitably become dull. At that point, many craftsmen face a crucial decision: should they sharpen their tools or replace them entirely? While replacing tools might seem like a quick fix, sharpening offers numerous benefits that are both economical and practical.
1. Cost Efficiency
One of the most significant advantages of sharpening tools rather than rep..
Why Choose Skookum Carbide End Mills?
Superior Carbide Quality
Precision Engineering
Innovative Coatings
Longer Tools Life
Cost-Effective
Attentive Customer Service
If you're looking to elevate your machining capabilities,
consider Skookum Carbide End Mills – the smart choice for precision, durability, and efficiency.
In the world of machining and manufacturing, the tools you choose can significantly impact the efficiency, quality, and overall success of your operations. Among the various tools available, solid carbide end mills are a critical componen..
Bring Your Tools Back To Life With Original Factory Sharpening!
For those of our clients that are within driving distance of our warehouse in Langford B.C., we offer a service where we can send your dull tools back to a Canadian manufacturer for sharpening, repair and reconditioning. Our goal is to return your cutting tools to a “like new” condition.
We can service anyone in the lower Vancouver Island area or Gulf Islands. So whether you live in Victoria, Saanich, Oak Bay, Central Saanich, Sidney, Salt Spring Island, Metchosin, Langford, Colwood, Sooke, Duncan or the surrounding area thi..
Bonded Sorbent Pads
Construction: Bonded sorbent pads are made by bonding multiple layers of material together. This bonding process typically involves heat or chemical bonding.
Durability: These pads are generally more durable and can withstand rough handling without falling apart.
Absorption Capacity: They have a high absorption capacity due to the multiple layers, which can hold more liquid.
Applications: Suitable for use in areas requiring durable, high-capacity absorbent material, such as industrial settings and spill response situations.
Cost: Typ..
If you own a drum sander, you know how crucial it is to have the right abrasive strips. However, finding the exact size can sometimes be a challenge. One effective solution is to order custom-made sanding belts and then cut the joint to turn them back into strips. This method ensures you get high-quality abrasives tailored to your drum sander's specifications. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Measure Your Drum Sander
First, you need to know the precise dimensions required for your drum sander. The best method is to measure a strip that you know fits on..
High Performance Carbide Drill Bits & End Mill Sharpening and Coating
In the realm of machining, precision and efficiency are paramount. Whether you're fabricating intricate components or tackling industrial projects, the condition of your cutting tools can make or break your success. Carbide end mills and high-performance carbide drill bits are staples in machining operations, valued for their durability and cutting prowess. However, even the most robust tools require maintenance to sustain peak performance. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of sharpening and recoating carbide..
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Maximizing Efficiency: The Benefits of Carbide Tipped Bandsaw Blades for Woodworking
Carbide tipped bandsaw blades are traditionally known for metalworking, but did you know they are great for woodworking as well?
In the world of woodworking, precision and efficiency are paramount. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a hobbyist, the choice of bandsaw blade can significantly impact your results. Among the myriad options available, carbide-tipped bandsaw blades stand out for their exceptional performance and durability. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of carbide-tipped ..
Enhancing End Mill Performance: The Power of Coatings
In the world of machining, precision is paramount. Engineers and machinists are continually seeking ways to optimize tools and processes to achieve higher efficiency, accuracy, and durability. Carbide end mills, the workhorses of machining, play a crucial role in this pursuit. However, even the toughest carbide can benefit from a little extra armor. Enter coatings – the secret weapon that can elevate end mill performance to new heights.
Coatings on carbide end mills serve as a protective shield, enhancing tool life, cutting speed, and..
Fast Track Sanding Belts – Any Size – Any Configuration!
The “Fast Track” Custom Sanding Belt program offers:
Quicker lead times — most custom belts are manufactured within 7 working days
Smaller minimum quantities available on select sizes
Instant pricing and order minimums — get a quote the moment you fill out the form
Premium-quality abrasive materials sourced from trusted manufacturers in Europe and South Korea, and expertly converted into belts in Canada. These materials are chosen for their exceptional consistency, durability, and finishing performance..
What are Forstner Bits and why/where are they used?
When you are looking for a clean, splinter free hole in hardwood, softwood, plywood or other man-made materials like MDF, forstner bits are often your best choice.
Most forstner style bits feature these common features;
Smooth cutting exterior “knife edge”. Some versions of forstners also have teeth cut into the outside edge and/or side clearance relief ground into the outside of the cutting surface.
Centering point – so that you can place the hole accuratly in the workpiece.
Chipper blades – these are the 1 or ..
How to identify and solve the most common problems with bandsaw blades.
Having troubles with your bandsaw blades can be frustrating and costly. By identifying specificaly what the issue you are having is, and working through these suggestions, you will be able to quickly resolve most, if not all issues. If after going through this guide you are still having troubles, please feel free to give us a call at 1-888-665-6936 or click on the “Chat with us here” for further assistance.
The following information comes from one of the best bandsaw blade manufacturers in the USA – M.K. Morse
..
What is Back Gouging?
Back gouging is the removal of weld and base metal by arc gouging or grinding from the other side of a partially welded joint to assure complete fusion and penetration upon subsequent welding from that side. Aluminum miller blades can be used for milling, cleaning up and grooving, and cutting out welding tacks. These blades are made to industry standards and can be sharpened many times.
Welding aluminum without making a back gouge before welding the backside of the material can cause you problems. The lack of a back gouge can cause voids and overall lack of material..
Choosing and Caring for Carbide Tipped Saw Blades
When it comes to your saw blades, finding the right one for the job is important. You also want to make sure that you are keeping it in the best shape possible to ensure it lasts. Here are some ideas for choosing which blades are right for you and ways you can extend their life:
· Royce Proline. Canadian-made to industry specifications, these blades were created for high-end hobby and contractor use, and they have become extremely popular.
· Royce Industrial. Designed for use in commercial shops, these Canadian-made bl..
Panel Saw Main and Scoring Blades by Machine Make & Model
For optimal performance on your sliding table or verticle panel saw, it is important to have the correct, matching set of main and scoring blades. You can refer to this list to find your specific machine, and then the part number is a direct link to the matching blade. Just click on the part number to start your order!
Panel Saw
Diameter
Kerf
Bore
Teeth
Machine
Scoring Saw
Diameter
Kerf
Bore
Teeth
05400724460U
400mm
4.4mm
60mm
72
Anthon LN
0718..
Have you ever overtightened a bolt and ruined the threads inside? How about ruining the threads on a bolt? Need to make threads in a newly drilled hole? Well, Taps and Dies are the tools to solve these issues and more!
What Are Taps & Dies?
A tap is a tool that you use to cut a thread into the material surrounding a hole, while a die is used for cutting threads into a rod that will mate with that hole. Dies are also used to cut new threads on new bolts, or repair threads on existing screws and bolts. There are several different types of taps and dies:
Taps
A tap is a tool that..
Purchasing a high-quality knife will yield you much better results and last a lot longer.
The knives that are included in your stationary or portable power planes are good for getting started out of the box, but they won’t produce the best results and will ultimately fail the test of time. There are a few different types of knives you can find on the market for your power planer:
TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) or HM (Hard Metal)
The TCT blades are tipped with a tungsten carbide insert to increase the longevity of the blade. The blades will last the longest when compared to steel blades..
