#27 in Tools & Home Improvement
Use arrows to jump to the previous/next product
Reddit mentions of CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
Sentiment score: 33
Reddit mentions: 86
We found 86 Reddit mentions of CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder. Here are the top ones.
or
- Small And Compact, Easily Fits In Pocket
- Powerful Magnets Allows Hands Free Use
- 2 Way Level For Ease Of Marking
- No Batteries Required. Scan Depth: 1 Inch. Rotating Level For Horizontal And Vertical Leveling
Features:
Specs:
Color | Original Version |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 1 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 1 Pack |
Weight | 0.15 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
I even got sick of my Zircon studfinder's flakiness so I sprung for a $8 magnetic one and I dig it. It does take a lil longer because you need to hit on a screw/metal, but I still grab it before my electric one.
EDIT: This is the one on Amazon, which is not where I purchased it (local HD for me), but same product and price.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VYySCbNCT7D0D
This is a tool you need! I switched from a traditional wall-irregularity finder to one of these and it leveled up my handyman skill.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_aMyRAbZN3XD11
It's a magnet. Foolproof. Which I need because I've never had much luck with the electronic ones.
That isn't true at all. I can get away with a simple magnet and just use it to find a sheetrock screw.
Look at this stud finder on amazon -
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_mPogzb17D3WA9
4.5 out of 5 stars with over 7,000 reviews and only costs $9.99. Thing doesn't even require batteries.
I would tell people the exact opposite of what you said. Don't waste $30-40 on a stud finder when a $9 one will work just as well.
I prefer this
I've had 100 dollar stud finders that couldn't do what this magnet does. They aren't terribly accurate and require batteries.
Stud finder, $10: https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1520539096&sr=1-4&keywords=stud+finder
Use a powerful magnet to locate the nails in the wall. When you find a vertical row of nails that is where the stud is.
This one is awesome:
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=magnet+stud+finder&qid=1554615529&s=gateway&sr=8-3
Best one that I know of... I use it all the time, very accurate!
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_GR7aAbYG0R3YB
I've got one of these, it would work great for this.
the best stud finder ever
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
The top selling stud finder on Amazon is just a magnet in a plastic holder.
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=zg_bs_553280_1
Electric stud finders are shit. Buy this wonderful little magnet and wave it over a wall until it sticks. This will effectively just find the studs by finding the nails in the studs and sticking to them, then you know your stud location and you can move up and down on that to find the height you want.
Seriously. It works every single time, I hang mine on a piece of dental floss so I can swing it around on the wall until it sticks on it’s own.
It costs $7 and will prevent your tv from falling off of the wall.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FJNNDbVDS7NAQ
I second.
I have Franklin, but a magnet is still my preferred method. This guy is well worth the $10 if you don't just have rare earth magnets lying around. Cheap $10 electronic stud finders, however, are not worth anything.
I use this magnetic stud finder: Totally Non-Risky Click I Swear
You can use a (fairly strong neodymium) magnet to find the sheetrock screws they use to, well, hold up the sheetrock. If you find a couple of magnetic spots in a line, odds are a beam is there. They even make magnets encased in plastic for this exact purpose.
Disclaimer: I don't really know anything about the strapping /u/jerkfacebeaversucks was talking about, so the magnet may be fooled by that too.
the buy it for life crowd will always argue for superior quality and buying a good tool. However another random redditor once summarized a different pragmatic:
"Buy a cheap tool, if it does the job you win. If you use it enough to break it you now are justified on buying the good version that might last you a lifetime."
I love harbor freight for economy cheap hand tools.
My exception is buy a good drill/driver. My current house might be close to 50% held together by work from my Milwaukee at this point.
Other tools no one mentioned that will come in handy: Outlet tester/live circuit detector, A stud finder, a set of allen wrenches.
Came here to say this, this was my best purchase all summer 👍 CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Command strips is definitely the way to go, but I find for some things the piece of it that holds the item is too big and fat for some things.
Nailing is an art. The first thing you would do is get a stud finder to make sure you're nailing something into a board and not just your wall and air. Your wall can hold most light things but if it's something like a heavy mirror or even a heavy picture frame you definitely need to find a stud. This stud finder is magnetic and will find the nail in the stud.
Then you would want to get your drill with a drill bit that is smaller than the nail is. Drill a hole into the wall just slightly downward, or just go straight it if you're not confident with your angles. Only drill in a couple inches. Do not try to drill or nail right where the stud finder found the nail, considering that there is already a nail there. Up and down the entire length of the wall where the stud finder sticks to is fair game to nail things, and there should be another stud every X feet or so (it depends).
Now you can hammer your nail in, just go easy with nice even soft strokes. And hold the hammer all the way up by the metal part for accuracy.
This all probably sounds tedious for this one project, but if you plan on hanging up more and more things it's a good idea to practice your household handiness. good luck!
Honestly a really good magnet, finds the nails that attach the lathe. I think I have this one
This works beautifully it has a light coating on the back so you don't leave marks on the walls when you slide it around. Also, sweep diagonally when using it.
I love the CH Hanson stud finder...basically the same concept of the magnets, but incorporates a small level so you can make an accurate mark.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
I have only ever used the magnet based ones that are inexpensive. The magnets find the drywall nails which are only in the studs.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1504558503&sr=1-4&keywords=stud+finder
If you have about $60 you could just buy them and have some tools that will serve you well as a renter and then you could help out your friends (and maybe get free beers or food off them).
I think you mean a stud finder.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/
It's less than ten bucks.
An adjustable wrench is about the same price.
https://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-23002-6-Inch-Adjustable-Wrench/dp/B00FFUPS98/
For a cordless rechargeable you're talking about $40 for this one.
https://www.amazon.com/Cordless-Variable-Position-Masterworks-MW316/dp/B07CR1GPBQ/
I know you said borrow, but if you're renting it's good to have some basic tools for stuff like this and it's an investment to be honest. If you honestly can't get anyone to help, I already have the stud finder (metal detector), and wrench. It would be an excuse for me to finally get a drill. Let me know if nothing else works out.
Search magnetic stud finder. Run it over the wall to find a screw in the drywall where your stud should be.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=magnetic+stud+finder&qid=1571351577&sprefix=magnetic+stu&sr=8-3
i wouldn't worry about drywall coming off the studs.. not even sure how this would happen.
game plan is sound. go for it. the only possible issue (and it's minor) is you could screw into an existing drywall screw, but the odds of this are almost 0. worst case is you screw 1/2" away.
but if you want to be absolutely sure, amazon sells these "stud-finders" that are just rare-earth magnets with a small level bubble. it finds studs by locating the drywall screws... nice little tool.
Try this type of stud finder.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
Here are the links without the referral tags:
Stud-finder and Fish Tape.
For just finding studs, I find these to be better than any of the fancy ones: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_atL1BbHQFE6PJ
Best ever. Doesn’t do electrical, or much else, but it works! It’ll just stick to a nail once it finds one.
Rare earth magnets work great, they latch on to nails/screws. Find one, then slide it up to find another above, and down to find another below, and you can be sure you're on a stud.
I have one of these, and it's never led me astray:
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?s=power-hand-tools&ie=UTF8&qid=1416347164&sr=1-1&keywords=stud+finder
>Ridiculous Things that Money Can Buy!
Well there's a ringing endorsement.
Gimmick. Especially for someone who's halfway serious about renovations.
Just invest in one of these, and one of these for backup, and you'll be fine.
For the future, grab one of these stud finders. Run it along the wall and it will hang on the screw heads that were used to secure the drywall. Also works great in lathe and plaster houses. It's really just a strong magnet.
OMGOMGOMGOMGOMG. Best $10 I ever spent. I love this thing:
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
Youtube will have plenty of examples. Make sure you find a stud to secure it to. This is my go to studfinder these days if you don't already have one: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406045775&sr=8-1&keywords=stud+finder
I just screwed one of these eye hooks to the bottom side of one of the upper shelves, then ran a lag bolt through the eye and into the stud behind the bookshelf. I did this in a couple spots, it will depend on how wide your bookshelf is as to how many you might decide to do. This is a particularly large bookshelf in my case and it goes all the way up to the ceiling. A good long wood screw would likely suffice in most cases. Also my bookshelf has an open back, you may need to do something slightly different if yours has an enclosed back on it, but you get the general gist of it.
This one worked for me, it finds the nails in the stud.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_MRGpDbF3WC35Z
I got this thing. Works like a champ.
I recently bought a magnetic stud finder that runs purely on a pair of magnets rather than battery. I run it in an 'S' shape across my wall and it sticks to certain areas.
Now here's the problem: What do I even do with that information? I want to hang some heavier things up (say, a mirror or something) and as far as I know you're supposed to hammer into the stud but like... if the stud finder is attaching to the metal in the frame then won't me hammering a nail into it endanger the frame? Wouldn't I be clanking right into the metal already in there? What if the thing I'm hanging needs to be attached to more than one stud and they're not close enough?
Should I mark an inch below / above / next to the spot that the stud finder attached to? How am I supposed to know that that's still part of the frame?
Ftr, this is the stud finder: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IKK0OI/
I'm sure this is all supposed to be very obvious... google seems to think so since I can't find any real resources aside from 'stud finders help you find studs'.
Thank you!
As little as possible. The more crap you have, the more it weighs you down.
That said, every home needs some necessities to get by. For me those generally involve cooking, sleeping, and repairs. I just finished watching Parks & Rec and am in a bit of a Ron Swanson mood.
For the kitchen (all recommended by America's Test Kitchen):
Victorinox 8" Chef's Knife
Victorinox Paring knife
CDN Instant Read Thermometer
Lodge 12" skillet - cheap and will last you forever
Crockpot, 6qt - the one kitchen appliance I'd cheat with. Easy delicious meals. Toss in a cheap cut of meat (chuck roast, etc), salt, pepper, garlic, onions, carrots, whatever. Let it sit for 6-8 hours. Dinner for 3 meals.
Tools:
I'd probably just pick up a cheap set of craftsman stuff (screwdrivers, hammer, sockets, pliers). Splurge on the ratchet and any power tools you need:
Bahco 3/8" ratchet - same as snapon F80 at 1/2 the price
Other misc. tools that are quite handy:
Magnetic stud finder - in a new place you're going to be hanging pictures, installing shelving, and mounting curtain rods. These are dirt cheap and super convenient.
Multimeter - Flukes will last you for life. If you need to do any electrical work, these are great. If you don't want to splurge up front just borrow them or buy a cheap $15 one at home depot.
Bedroom:
Get comfortable pillows and nice sheets. Don't get all caught up in the 1000 thread count crap, it's a hoax. Just get at least 400tc or so, and preferably egyptian or pima cotton. My favorite sheets are actually a super cheapo brand that are 60% cotton 40% polyester. I prefer them because they feel more "smooth and cool" rather than "soft and warm".
Obviously get real furniture: dresser, bed with headboard, etc.
Electronics
I won't go into too much detail here, but consider cutting the cord (/r/cordcutters).
A cheap Roku3 + netflix + an OTA antenna can go a long way.
If you have a lot of pictures/media/etc, don't forget about backups. I'd look into an inexpensive NAS, or at least a USB harddrive. They are dirt cheap and worth the insurance.
Insurance
Lastly, don't forget renters or homeowners insurance. If you are renting, you can get rather good coverage for quite cheap. I just paid around $50 for 12 months of coverage on my apartment ($15k coverage, $1k deductible). I shopped around at 5 different places and Amica came out the cheapest by FAR.
Other than that, you don't need much. Buy less crap. Don't buy some $50 automatic electronic wine opener when a $1 wine key will do the job. Same for a can opener.
I own a few of these personally. Great tool!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000IKK0OI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1405916887&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40
There are actually stud finders made with rare earth magnets: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
I've used lots of fancy electric ones in the past. Nothing is more consistent than this cheap thing.
I just put this one up last weekend for my 55". I don't know if you desire articulating though, but IMHO, it folds flat enough that the articulating is just a bonus. Everything was in the kit for hardware. I know you said 60", but if it meets for weight, I'd go ahead.
https://www.amazon.com/Mounting-Dream-MD2413-MX-Articulating-400x400mm/dp/B00KXTZ3BE/ref=sr_1_13?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1478532173&sr=1-13&keywords=articulating+wall+mount
You might want to stop at the hardware store first and pick up a magnetic stud finder before ordering a mount - they are like $5-10, and handy to have if you ever want to hang anything else (shelf, large picture).
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1479314795&sr=1-1&keywords=magnetic+stud+finder
Thanks for the heads up. This is arguably a better product (it has a level built-in) at a cheaper price: https://smile.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/
StudBuddy is USA-made, however. This comes from China.
This is the best out there. Anything else will not be as reliable. And no batteries!
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343482450&sr=8-1&keywords=stud+finder
I have been using this one for years, with great success. It stows inside my drill case like a James Bond gadget (From Russia With Love). I have never used an electronic stud finder. The only problem I have had with this one is when I find metal studs, but I have since learned how to deal with them.
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI?ref_=ast_bbp_dp
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_o0IhybXWA6YEF
If you search Google for"metal stud finder" you'll get a shit ton of results....
Total waste in my book. All you really need is one of these magnetic ones. The fancy stuff didn't work for me but this does every time.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_PT8gzbM75ASRP
This is by far the best one I've ever owned. Why, you ask? It's magnetic. None of that beeping crap that doesn't work half the time. This one is what you need.
I would recommend using a magnetic stud finder. They allow you to find where the drywall screws are. Once you find a screw with it, move it vertically to find at least 2 other screws to verify it's just not a stray screw. This is the one I use regularly.
Then you can mount directly into the stud.
You could also use toggler snaptoggle anchors if the studs don't line up quite where you want the mounts to be. I use these very often for monitor mounting. The drywall is plenty strong enough. These do require a 1/2" hole to be drilled, however. So keep that in mind if you will be having to patch them later.
+2 on this... These are great and the HDMI cable is nice... I also recommend the Magnet Stud Finder... I have one of these and love it... It sticks to the drywall screws used to hang drywall to the studs and hasn't failed me yet...
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408654238&sr=8-1&keywords=magnet+stud+finder
An $8.99 one on Amazon sized one: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
Well then today's your lucky day, ladies.
There are such things as magnetic stud finders. They are amazing.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3d25xbSTG6N7P
this here is the best stud finder I've ever used.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000IKK0OI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1382644668&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70
Do yourself a solid and buy a stud finder. The magnet kind is too cheap not to. This one at Amazon is $7 and is great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000IKK0OI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479919614&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=magnetic+stud+finder
Also, it's smart to double check what your finder tells you before actually trying to screw anything. I usually use a finish nail to probe the spot and be sure that there is actually a stud where I think there is. You never know what craziness is going on behind drywall and if you were wrong, it's super easy to repair a finish nail hole.
Good luck!
Magnet stud finders will never steer you wrong. Excellent little gizmo.
Patience, padawan; I'm on my flight back as I type this!
You're going to want a second pair of hands regardless to hold stuff in place while you drill and tighten. I'm not sure what they mean by "two drywalls"; it sounds as though they layered it, but to my totally unprofessional self, that sounds silly.
16" apart ("on center" is the terminology used in construction) is standard for non-load-bearing studs, but you really can't trust it. Mine ended up ranging from 14" to 28" apart. Get a studfinder and mark them out; this one is super cheap, and works very well for metal studs.
Could you link me to or post an image of your mounting bracket? The primary reason I used plywood is that the bracket I got stupidly wasn't wide-enough to span even two studs. If you can hit at least two with yours, I'd say it's safe to forgo the plywood. That's true that the plywood is only visible from the side; unfortunately, my TV location causes that to be exposed (thanks, picky roommate >_>). If that's not a concern, I see no reason not to go ham and use the plywood.
The only potential issue with using 12 toggle bolts is that you'll have twice as many holes in the drywall to patch up when you eventually move out, but that's negligible.
I'm going to non-definitively say that there's no way your studs are 1" wide. That'd break compatibility with anything intended to use the standard size for wooden studs. But hey - finding the middle of a stud is what the studfinder's for!
Confirmed - verified purchaser:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IKK0OI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Wall stud detectors, at least the one I have, are Neodymium magnets in plastic frame. Great at finding nails in the wall and since I already have this one, no need to purchase one. Very useful.
I purchased this guy .. but it wasn’t of much use to me.
I’m so terrified of not cutting in between the two studs and having a huge chunk missing. Do you have any specific videos to recommend?
Thank you so much for your help!
I have this one: http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427123016&sr=8-1&keywords=magnet+stud+finder
I like it a lot better than most electronic versions. Also, you could just buy the magnets and make one yourself.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_59BSCbASZJQKE
For less than $8, I really like this stud finder. And since it’s a magnet, there are no batteries to worry about for it.
This https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_6f8QDbTW0CFKP
Think of it less as a stud finder and more of a device that allows you to find metal on the other side of your drywall. A long, solid magnetic pull is a pipe. A vertical line of magnetic dots is a stud.
Assuming you had an inspection done you really don't have any tests to do as they all should already have been done. (Toxins in paint and such)
Locate your main water valve, main gas valve and meter, and breaker panel. Just so you know where they are. Open breaker panel, identify which breaker controls what. Hopefully they are marked.
Get a pair of bolt cutters. I've used mine many times for random jobs around the house. Speaking of tools, a basic $100 toolset comes in handy all the time and you'll never regret investing in a quality battery powered drill.
Change the code to the garage door opener.
Change locks on doors.
Take a lot of "before" pics. It's fun to look back and see how much your home has changed.
Look into rebates that are offered by your local utility companies ( electricity and gas). They'll usually give you free LED light bulbs, or great deals on random things like that. And where I live they'll even come out and do different audits for free to make sure things are running smoothly in your home.
Look into Sonic Internet in your area. I've heard good things about them lately.
Home improvement can quickly become overwhelming. Expect to get overwhelmed. Then expect to get inspired again.
Back to tools, get a quality stud finder. Not a hyped up beeping led one. Just a solid magnet one. Like this one. http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1451979365&sr=1-1&keywords=stud+finder
Before you attempt to fix something, always just check out a video or two on YouTube. They will point out things like why you should not over tighten the bolts on your toilet. (I learned that one the hard way). Since then I always try to watch a video before fixing something. They will usually point out safety things and other "gotchas" that you should be aware of.
Can't think of much else right now. Good luck and congrats!
The weird part is that it definitely sticks (the magnetic stud finder) to the corners. Both concave corners (ie-the regular corners of a 4 sided room) and the convex corners (ie- like a hallway corner)....don't know if convex and concave are the proper terms.
So, it can find SOME nails through whatever material is on there. Just not ANYWHERE on the wall itself.
It looks like it.
I have one of these, it has been a life saver in a house with plaster and lath.
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
Try a magnet. Itll hit on the nails or screws. Should give you a general indication of the studs.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_8XRMDb259QETV
I use one of these for marking studs
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_acpCzbE82Y34Q
Another comment said fiberglass fishing sticks, I use those extensively (cable installer) as well as using fish tape when you need something more flexible
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BGZ9TM2/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdo_vepCzbK7AKCQF
Drilling up from the bottom is probably best, just take your time to scout out power lines and studs so you don't hit anything unexpected. Something I do whenever I cut in new outlets is cut the drywall first and stick a light in the hole, drill (everything is attics in SW Florida) and see if I can see the light. It's better to drill a couple times than cut extra holes in the drywall.
I love my magnetic one.
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_3sVmzbJCQXF08
> Zircon stud finder
I am a very handy person and those things suck. Get a magnetic one and use the tip about outlets and you should be good.
E: I have this one: https://smile.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=stud+finder&qid=1558706765&s=gateway&sr=8-3
I use this magnetic stud finder.
I got one of these from my brother in law for Christmas one year and it’s my go to stud finder now:
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_lh7GDbK6PMJF5
This is the correct answer. You need a stud finder, to find out where the wooden beams that support your wall are. Once you know where they run, that's where you put your nails/screws. Load bearing.
If you are driving alot of screws get a good driver with Torx or square bits. Phillips or flat head screws should be outlawed.
I have tons of 18 volt tools. But 90% of the time I use my 12 volt stuff. It is lighter and plenty strong enough for most all jobs I throw at it.
https://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-Electric-Tools-2598-22-Hammer/dp/B077ZXR2GN/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=milwaukee+m12+fuel&qid=1563798041&s=gateway&sr=8-3
​
Get a good tool bag, To keep all your tools organized.
https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DG5543-Inch-Tradesmans-Tool/dp/B001P30BO6/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=dewalt+tool+bag&qid=1563036747&s=gateway&sr=8-3
​
This little screwdriver is my most used electrical tool.
It will take off a faceplate in seconds without scratching it.
https://www.amazon.com/Interchangeable-Screwdriver-Klein-Tools-67100/dp/B003FC75YE/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=klien+screwdriver+fast&qid=1563037724&s=gateway&sr=8-7
​
This works great also.
https://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-9-IN-1-RATCHET-BIT-DRIVR/dp/B07N2XRJKN/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3S4QWUWTNOHH0&keywords=milwaukee+ratchet+screwdriver&qid=1563797885&s=gateway&sprefix=milwauke+ratchet+%2Caps%2C216&sr=8-5
​
These work great as stud finders, not sure how they build your houses but in america we have 2x4 wooden studs behind our walls every 16-24". This is a strong magnet that finds the studs by finding the screws that attach the drywall to the wooden studs.
​
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IKK0OI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
If you are moving any water lines or doing any plumbing look in to Pex, It is very easy to do and you can same alot of plumbing costs.
https://www.amazon.com/IWISS-Crimping-Crimper-Stainless-Clamps/dp/B019DPYQZM/ref=sr_1_4?crid=LGQIZBR2PEXY&keywords=pex+crimping+tool&qid=1563798123&s=gateway&sprefix=pex+crimp%2Caps%2C201&sr=8-4
​
If you are moving your toilet, look in to a wall mount. They are very modern and save you a lot of room.
How strong of a magnet are you using? If the plaster is thick, it needs to be very strong, and you need to watch very carefully (and hold it very loosely, or dangle it from a string.) I use one of these, and it just barely does it for my plaster walls, and it was a pain in the ass.
Also, are you finding multiple nails, and then connecting them vertically to find the stud? I found there was all kinds of random metal shit in my wall apparently, but the only clear vertical lines were studs. FWIW, there was not a stud by my outlet box either (I don't even wanna know how crazy the electric is in my apartment.)
The magnet ended up working for me, but next option was to remove the baseboard and see if that helped, and if not, drill little holes underneath till I found the stud. As long as you put the baseboard back on, there's no harm in it.
Have you tried a strong magnet to find the nails in the studs? Something like this might work http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408676127&sr=8-1&keywords=magnet+stud+finder
I've had expensive and shitty stud finders before. Then I got this for 9 dollars including shipping and it made me feel like an idiot. It's 100% consistent and effective. I have no idea why this isn't the standard object that people are referring to when they're talking about stud finders. I used to get the cheap electronic ones and I'd sit there trying to confirm that I'd actually found the stud and still miss it half the time.
Thanks for the diagram, that's interesting.
This studfinder uses super strong magnets to detect the screws/nails, and actually sticks to them through the drywall. It's this thing. Seems to work great.. and that's the only spot it picks up any metal.
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI I've used this for years and will never use anything else again... yea it's just a magnet
This magnetic stud finder works very well. It has powerful magnets that will work through thick drywall and it will last forever.
This is what I use in my old house: CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IKK0OI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_t5StDb0W5KXV8
A good cordless drill should not be skimped on. Cheap versions like ryobi, harbor freight, etc have terrible battery technology, and the things don't make it past a few charge cycles. Buddy of mine bought a ryobi cordless tool set, what a pile of junk. He only did one small shelving install with it and it wouldn't take a full charge.
Things to not skimp on:
All of the above will cost about $150, should be enough for most home repairs, and will last a lifetime (Well, the Drill will last ~10 years or so, no battery powered thing is BIFL).
Avoid these brands:
black and decker
Ryobi
Craftsman
These brands tend to make quality tools:
Dewalt
Makita
Milwaukee
Bosch
Porter Cable
Hitachi
https://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-03040-Magnetic-Finder/dp/B000IKK0OI
This one, it's just magnetic and does not have adjustable electronic sensors.
I swear by this one. http://amzn.com/B000IKK0OI It hasn't failed me yet.
Here is the mobile version of your link