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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wood-cord-gauge

For heavy shop tools, which extension cord is thicker?

A lower gauge number, such as 10 or 12.

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  1. 16 gauge
  2. 10 gauge ✔
  3. 18 gauge

Why: Wire gauge runs backward: a smaller number means thicker wire. Woodcraft recommends thicker, lower gauge cords (10 or 12) and not running heavy tools off one cord.

Huh, didn't know that: Woodcraft also says to store oil-based finishes and solvents in a metal cabinet.

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References

Answer: 10 gauge. Wire gauge runs backward: a smaller number means thicker wire. Woodcraft recommends thicker, lower gauge cords (10 or 12) and not running heavy tools off one cord.

  1. Woodcraft Fire Safety for the Home Shop www.woodcraft.com/blogs/shop-knowledge-guides/fire-safety-for-the-home-shop
    thicker, lower gauge cords (10 or 12)
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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