I would say the # 1 tool to have is a nice flat table. It must be stable and most important, comfortable to sit at. I use a laminated maple top (Like a big butcher block) and a metal frame. The top is from Woodcraft and the frame is from Global Industrial.

Next to that I would say a nice belt / disc sander as the one shown by Zor. I have the same model but have since upgraded to a 12" disc sander. Over the course of years I have added to my tool collection. Building just allows me to use my tools!

SunDevilPilot