Simple tool success and failure
I’ve got a collection of bicycle pumps in the basement. A collection built with good intentions and poor sense. And since I’m slow to learn, I went out this morning and added yet another one. For a tool that is used so infrequently, there’s not much staying (or pumping) power.
There are other tools that fit into this bracket. Vise-grips. I’ve lost count of how many we have around here. I can find one when pressed, but they always look as if we used them to earn our living. Stripped jaws, weakened springs, a general sense of “this has seen better days”. Again, far from the reality.
In contrast, large screwdrivers seem to last forever. A primitive tool with endless applications. Yes, you can hammer a nail, or saw wood with one; not a designed feature, just a statement of fact. Similarly, a big old hammer just works (although I have never removed a screw with a ball peen hammer, contrary to rumour).
I guess some tools are better by evolution.
But, back to the bicycle pumps. The design failure comes from a desire to be polyvalent. The ability to fit various valve systems means adapters, and when we move I’ll find a store of odd shaped rubber cyliders. Today’s purchase has both valve sizes molded into the business end, where loss should be avoided. I’m not clear on how a pump with two holes will work.
Next in the list of things to resolve will be the multiple toolboxes. Time for the great amalgamation.
