diff --git a/code/datums/elements/rust.dm b/code/datums/elements/rust.dm
index 5f5ee0b26e8..f34182384ce 100644
--- a/code/datums/elements/rust.dm
+++ b/code/datums/elements/rust.dm
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@
 /datum/element/rust/proc/handle_tool_use(atom/source, mob/user, obj/item/item)
 	switch(item.tool_behaviour)
 		if(TOOL_WELDER)
-			if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=5))
+			if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			user.balloon_alert(user, "burning off rust...")
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/PDApainter.dm b/code/game/machinery/PDApainter.dm
index cce8697c0c8..f6b9dad763e 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/PDApainter.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/PDApainter.dm
@@ -110,7 +110,7 @@
 /obj/machinery/pdapainter/attackby(obj/item/O, mob/living/user, params)
 	if(machine_stat & BROKEN)
 		if(O.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !user.combat_mode)
-			if(!O.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!O.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 			user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] is repairing [src]."), \
 							span_notice("You begin repairing [src]..."), \
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/camera/camera.dm b/code/game/machinery/camera/camera.dm
index dcf889ee342..2c12acf2d99 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/camera/camera.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/camera/camera.dm
@@ -285,7 +285,7 @@ MAPPING_DIRECTIONAL_HELPERS(/obj/machinery/camera/xray, 0)
 	if(!panel_open)
 		return
 
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 		return TRUE
 
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You start to weld [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/camera/camera_assembly.dm b/code/game/machinery/camera/camera_assembly.dm
index 69732938de3..0156c06a142 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/camera/camera_assembly.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/camera/camera_assembly.dm
@@ -125,11 +125,11 @@
 	if(state != STATE_WRENCHED && state != STATE_WELDED)
 		return
 	. = TRUE
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=3))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	user.balloon_alert_to_viewers("[state == STATE_WELDED ? "un" : null]welding...")
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
-	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 2 SECONDS, amount=3, volume = 50))
+	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 2 SECONDS, volume = 50))
 		user.balloon_alert_to_viewers("stopped [state == STATE_WELDED ? "un" : null]welding!")
 		return
 	state = ((state == STATE_WELDED) ? STATE_WRENCHED : STATE_WELDED)
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/computer/buildandrepair.dm b/code/game/machinery/computer/buildandrepair.dm
index 3d730535c3a..7bca8b37ac0 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/computer/buildandrepair.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/computer/buildandrepair.dm
@@ -20,7 +20,7 @@
 					state = 1
 				return
 			if(P.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-				if(!P.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!P.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 					return
 
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You start deconstructing the frame..."))
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/deployable.dm b/code/game/machinery/deployable.dm
index e3937e7c6b8..94db4f2614c 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/deployable.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/deployable.dm
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@
 /obj/structure/barricade/attackby(obj/item/I, mob/living/user, params)
 	if(I.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !user.combat_mode && bar_material == METAL)
 		if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/doors/airlock.dm b/code/game/machinery/doors/airlock.dm
index d9e7c1a8e2d..b67be3847eb 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/doors/airlock.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/doors/airlock.dm
@@ -864,12 +864,12 @@
 		else
 			return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin cutting the [layer_flavor]..."))
 
-	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 4 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=2))
+	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 4 SECONDS, volume=50))
 		return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 
 	if(!panel_open || security_level != starting_level)
@@ -981,7 +981,7 @@
 			return
 
 		if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-			if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 			user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] begins welding the airlock."), \
 							span_notice("You begin repairing the airlock..."), \
@@ -996,7 +996,7 @@
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("The airlock doesn't need repairing."))
 
 /obj/machinery/door/airlock/try_to_weld_secondary(obj/item/weldingtool/tool, mob/user)
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] begins [welded ? "unwelding":"welding"] the airlock."), \
 		span_notice("You begin [welded ? "unwelding":"welding"] the airlock..."), \
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/doors/firedoor.dm b/code/game/machinery/doors/firedoor.dm
index 952fa835f32..c74d613ec0d 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/doors/firedoor.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/doors/firedoor.dm
@@ -516,7 +516,7 @@
 	return
 
 /obj/machinery/door/firedoor/try_to_weld_secondary(obj/item/weldingtool/W, mob/user)
-	if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts [welded ? "unwelding" : "welding"] [src]."), span_notice("You start welding [src]."))
 	if(W.use_tool(src, user, DEFAULT_STEP_TIME, volume=50))
@@ -857,7 +857,7 @@
 				user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] begins cutting apart [src]'s frame..."), \
 					span_notice("You begin slicing [src] apart..."))
 
-				if(attacking_object.use_tool(src, user, DEFAULT_STEP_TIME, volume=50, amount=1))
+				if(attacking_object.use_tool(src, user, DEFAULT_STEP_TIME, volume=50))
 					if(constructionStep != CONSTRUCTION_NO_CIRCUIT)
 						return
 					user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] cuts apart [src]!"), \
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/droneDispenser.dm b/code/game/machinery/droneDispenser.dm
index 6741927204b..20e8fd832ae 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/droneDispenser.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/droneDispenser.dm
@@ -229,7 +229,7 @@
 			span_notice("[user] begins patching up [src] with [I]."),
 			span_notice("You begin restoring the damage to [src]..."))
 
-		if(!I.use_tool(src, user, 40, volume=50, amount=1))
+		if(!I.use_tool(src, user, 40, volume=50))
 			return
 
 		user.visible_message(
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/firealarm.dm b/code/game/machinery/firealarm.dm
index a9d7850c216..26ea0612c7d 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/firealarm.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/firealarm.dm
@@ -327,7 +327,7 @@
 
 		if(tool.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !user.combat_mode)
 			if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-				if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 					return
 
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/newscaster/newscaster_machine.dm b/code/game/machinery/newscaster/newscaster_machine.dm
index 545b5c719f6..c5c82d69c3c 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/newscaster/newscaster_machine.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/newscaster/newscaster_machine.dm
@@ -494,7 +494,7 @@ MAPPING_DIRECTIONAL_HELPERS(/obj/machinery/newscaster, 30)
 	if(!(machine_stat & BROKEN))
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("[src] does not need repairs."))
 		return
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	user.balloon_alert_to_viewers("started welding...", "started repairing...")
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
diff --git a/code/game/machinery/syndicatebomb.dm b/code/game/machinery/syndicatebomb.dm
index ce3d1abe11b..d1a702df2d9 100644
--- a/code/game/machinery/syndicatebomb.dm
+++ b/code/game/machinery/syndicatebomb.dm
@@ -183,11 +183,11 @@
 	if(payload || !wires.is_all_cut() || !open_panel)
 		return FALSE
 
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=5))  //uses up 5 fuel
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You start to cut [src] apart..."))
-	if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50, amount=5)) // uses up 5 fuel
+	if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50))
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You cut [src] apart."))
 		new /obj/item/stack/sheet/plasteel(loc, 5)
 		qdel(src)
diff --git a/code/game/objects/items/tools/weldingtool.dm b/code/game/objects/items/tools/weldingtool.dm
index d936d6deba3..2251218d78d 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/items/tools/weldingtool.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/items/tools/weldingtool.dm
@@ -1,5 +1,5 @@
 /// How many seconds between each fuel depletion tick ("use" proc)
-#define WELDER_FUEL_BURN_INTERVAL 26
+#define WELDER_FUEL_BURN_INTERVAL 5
 /obj/item/weldingtool
 	name = "welding tool"
 	desc = "A standard edition welder provided by Nanotrasen."
@@ -331,7 +331,7 @@
 			to_chat(user, span_warning("You need one rod to start building a flamethrower!"))
 
 /obj/item/weldingtool/ignition_effect(atom/ignitable_atom, mob/user)
-	if(use_tool(ignitable_atom, user, 0, amount=1))
+	if(use_tool(ignitable_atom, user, 0))
 		return span_notice("[user] casually lights [ignitable_atom] with [src], what a badass.")
 	else
 		return ""
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/ai_core.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/ai_core.dm
index d0d1e5dc9db..4ed67e3b3c6 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/ai_core.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/ai_core.dm
@@ -163,7 +163,7 @@
 				balloon_alert(user, "core must be empty to deconstruct it!")
 				return
 
-			if(!P.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!P.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			balloon_alert(user, "deconstructing frame...")
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets.dm
index d943aded0ac..ed331390a13 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets.dm
@@ -787,7 +787,7 @@
 	else if(opened)
 		if(istype(weapon, cutting_tool))
 			if(weapon.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-				if(!weapon.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!weapon.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 					return
 
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin cutting \the [src] apart..."))
@@ -810,7 +810,7 @@
 			return
 
 	else if(weapon.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && can_weld_shut)
-		if(!weapon.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!weapon.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return
 
 		if(weapon.use_tool(src, user, 40, volume=50))
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/displaycase.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/displaycase.dm
index 7146c04723e..b9a3973527d 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/displaycase.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/displaycase.dm
@@ -138,11 +138,11 @@
 			to_chat(user, span_alert("Access denied."))
 	else if(tool.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !user.combat_mode && !broken)
 		if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=5))
+			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing [src]..."))
-			if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 40, amount=5, volume=50))
+			if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 40, volume=50))
 				atom_integrity = max_integrity
 				update_appearance()
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You repair [src]."))
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/door_assembly.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/door_assembly.dm
index 8ef22fc984e..9cf5d622667 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/door_assembly.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/door_assembly.dm
@@ -60,7 +60,7 @@
 		created_name = t
 
 	else if((W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER) && (mineral || glass || !anchored ))
-		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return
 
 		if(mineral)
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/girders.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/girders.dm
index a6243593165..433a4b2e343 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/girders.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/girders.dm
@@ -406,7 +406,7 @@
 /obj/structure/girder/cult/attackby(obj/item/W, mob/user, params)
 	add_fingerprint(user)
 	if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return
 
 		balloon_alert(user, "slicing apart...")
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/mirror.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/mirror.dm
index 73c0c02c2c3..56a8c84119c 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/mirror.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/mirror.dm
@@ -110,7 +110,7 @@ MAPPING_DIRECTIONAL_HELPERS(/obj/structure/mirror/broken, 28)
 	if(!broken)
 		return TRUE
 
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 
 	balloon_alert(user, "repairing...")
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/plaques/_plaques.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/plaques/_plaques.dm
index 775c7efef82..8b8047ba464 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/plaques/_plaques.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/plaques/_plaques.dm
@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@
 	if(atom_integrity == max_integrity)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("This plaque is already in perfect condition."))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts repairing [src]..."), \
 		span_notice("You start repairing [src]."))
@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@
 	if(atom_integrity == max_integrity)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("This plaque is already in perfect condition."))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts repairing [src]..."), \
 		span_notice("You start repairing [src]."))
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/railings.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/railings.dm
index 96fd0ac2356..e6fee2d3986 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/railings.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/railings.dm
@@ -48,7 +48,7 @@
 
 	if(I.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !user.combat_mode)
 		if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/reflector.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/reflector.dm
index 6ec3f930884..57b5ff1c492 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/reflector.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/reflector.dm
@@ -105,7 +105,7 @@
 	return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 
 /obj/structure/reflector/welder_act(mob/living/user, obj/item/tool)
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	if(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
 		user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts to repair [src]."),
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/signs/_signs.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/signs/_signs.dm
index e3ee70dfec7..cdb7ba0811f 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/signs/_signs.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/signs/_signs.dm
@@ -76,7 +76,7 @@
 	if(atom_integrity == max_integrity)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("This sign is already in perfect condition."))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts repairing [src]..."), \
 		span_notice("You start repairing [src]."))
@@ -220,7 +220,7 @@
 	if(atom_integrity == max_integrity)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("This sign is already in perfect condition."))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] starts repairing [src]..."), \
 		span_notice("You start repairing [src]."))
diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/windoor_assembly.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/windoor_assembly.dm
index ae705bdf892..b4498699bf7 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/windoor_assembly.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/windoor_assembly.dm
@@ -98,7 +98,7 @@
 	switch(state)
 		if("01")
 			if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && !anchored)
-				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 					return
 
 				user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] disassembles the windoor assembly."),
diff --git a/code/game/shuttle_engines.dm b/code/game/shuttle_engines.dm
index a4eb334549b..7a474d6fa1d 100644
--- a/code/game/shuttle_engines.dm
+++ b/code/game/shuttle_engines.dm
@@ -88,7 +88,7 @@
 		if(ENGINE_UNWRENCHED)
 			to_chat(user, span_warning("The [src.name] needs to be wrenched to the floor!"))
 		if(ENGINE_WRENCHED)
-			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=round(ENGINE_WELDTIME / 5)))
 				return TRUE
 
 			user.visible_message(span_notice("[user.name] starts to weld the [name] to the floor."), \
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@
 				alter_engine_power(engine_power)
 
 		if(ENGINE_WELDED)
-			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=round(ENGINE_WELDTIME / 5)))
 				return TRUE
 
 			user.visible_message(span_notice("[user.name] starts to cut the [name] free from the floor."), \
diff --git a/code/game/turfs/closed/wall/reinf_walls.dm b/code/game/turfs/closed/wall/reinf_walls.dm
index 5168f337483..23641d09262 100644
--- a/code/game/turfs/closed/wall/reinf_walls.dm
+++ b/code/game/turfs/closed/wall/reinf_walls.dm
@@ -74,7 +74,7 @@
 
 		if(COVER)
 			if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 					return
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin slicing through the metal cover..."))
 				if(W.use_tool(src, user, 60, volume=100))
@@ -107,7 +107,7 @@
 				return TRUE
 
 			if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 					return
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin welding the metal cover back to the frame..."))
 				if(W.use_tool(src, user, 60, volume=100))
@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@
 
 		if(SUPPORT_RODS)
 			if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+				if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 					return
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin slicing through the support rods..."))
 				if(W.use_tool(src, user, 100, volume=100))
diff --git a/code/game/turfs/closed/walls.dm b/code/game/turfs/closed/walls.dm
index 11427d8f161..676edea50da 100644
--- a/code/game/turfs/closed/walls.dm
+++ b/code/game/turfs/closed/walls.dm
@@ -202,7 +202,7 @@
 		return FALSE
 
 	if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return FALSE
 
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin fixing dents on the wall..."))
@@ -231,7 +231,7 @@
 
 /turf/closed/wall/proc/try_decon(obj/item/I, mob/user)
 	if(I.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-		if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=round(slicing_duration / 50)))
 			return FALSE
 
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin slicing through the outer plating..."))
diff --git a/code/game/turfs/open/floor/plating.dm b/code/game/turfs/open/floor/plating.dm
index 7a2ca30a0b1..1ff83fec0c3 100644
--- a/code/game/turfs/open/floor/plating.dm
+++ b/code/game/turfs/open/floor/plating.dm
@@ -252,7 +252,7 @@
 		if(PLATE_BOLTS_LOOSENED)
 			switch(tool_used.tool_behaviour)
 				if(TOOL_WELDER)
-					if(!tool_used.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+					if(!tool_used.tool_start_check(user, amount=3))
 						return
 					balloon_alert(user, "slicing...")
 					if(tool_used.use_tool(src, user, 15 SECONDS, volume=100))
@@ -287,7 +287,7 @@
 					return TRUE
 
 				if(TOOL_WELDER)
-					if(!tool_used.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+					if(!tool_used.tool_start_check(user, amount=3))
 						return
 					balloon_alert(user, "welding back on...")
 					if(tool_used.use_tool(src, user, 15 SECONDS, volume=100))
diff --git a/code/modules/antagonists/nukeop/equipment/nuclear_bomb/_nuclear_bomb.dm b/code/modules/antagonists/nukeop/equipment/nuclear_bomb/_nuclear_bomb.dm
index ef29262bc7a..0786f248886 100644
--- a/code/modules/antagonists/nukeop/equipment/nuclear_bomb/_nuclear_bomb.dm
+++ b/code/modules/antagonists/nukeop/equipment/nuclear_bomb/_nuclear_bomb.dm
@@ -116,7 +116,7 @@ GLOBAL_VAR(station_nuke_source)
 				if(!weapon.tool_start_check(user, amount = 1))
 					return TRUE
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You start cutting [src]'s inner plate..."))
-				if(weapon.use_tool(src, user, 8 SECONDS, volume=100, amount=1))
+				if(weapon.use_tool(src, user, 8 SECONDS, volume=100))
 					to_chat(user, span_notice("You cut [src]'s inner plate."))
 					deconstruction_state = NUKESTATE_WELDED
 					update_appearance()
diff --git a/code/modules/art/statues.dm b/code/modules/art/statues.dm
index 31fe7aefb4b..68986a3259c 100644
--- a/code/modules/art/statues.dm
+++ b/code/modules/art/statues.dm
@@ -38,7 +38,7 @@
 	add_fingerprint(user)
 	if(!(flags_1 & NODECONSTRUCT_1))
 		if(W.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-			if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!W.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return FALSE
 			user.balloon_alert(user, "slicing apart...")
 			if(W.use_tool(src, user, 40, volume=50))
diff --git a/code/modules/assembly/bomb.dm b/code/modules/assembly/bomb.dm
index 0153c121d45..3fefbc3c17d 100644
--- a/code/modules/assembly/bomb.dm
+++ b/code/modules/assembly/bomb.dm
@@ -59,7 +59,7 @@
 	if(status)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("[bombtank] already has a pressure hole!"))
 		return
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	if(I.use_tool(src, user, 0, volume=40))
 		status = TRUE
diff --git a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/fusion/hfr_parts.dm b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/fusion/hfr_parts.dm
index e08260a8aca..7ec4760d54d 100644
--- a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/fusion/hfr_parts.dm
+++ b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/fusion/hfr_parts.dm
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@
 	if(user.combat_mode)
 		return FALSE
 	balloon_alert(user, "repairing...")
-	if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 10 SECONDS, volume=30, amount=5))
+	if(tool.use_tool(src, user, 10 SECONDS, volume=30))
 		balloon_alert(user, "repaired")
 		cracked = FALSE
 		update_appearance()
diff --git a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_pump.dm b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_pump.dm
index 067cad67d9e..30c8ca704d9 100644
--- a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_pump.dm
+++ b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_pump.dm
@@ -212,7 +212,7 @@
 
 /obj/machinery/atmospherics/components/unary/vent_pump/welder_act(mob/living/user, obj/item/welder)
 	..()
-	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin welding the vent..."))
 	if(welder.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50))
diff --git a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_scrubber.dm b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_scrubber.dm
index a937042b493..7e9951214c9 100644
--- a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_scrubber.dm
+++ b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/components/unary_devices/vent_scrubber.dm
@@ -304,7 +304,7 @@
 
 /obj/machinery/atmospherics/components/unary/vent_scrubber/welder_act(mob/living/user, obj/item/welder)
 	..()
-	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("Now welding the scrubber."))
 	if(welder.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50))
diff --git a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/portable/canister.dm b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/portable/canister.dm
index c3c404ec9b2..4263dfe4836 100644
--- a/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/portable/canister.dm
+++ b/code/modules/atmospherics/machinery/portable/canister.dm
@@ -476,7 +476,7 @@ GLOBAL_LIST_INIT(gas_id_to_canister, init_gas_id_to_canister())
 
 /obj/machinery/portable_atmospherics/canister/welder_act_secondary(mob/living/user, obj/item/I)
 	. = ..()
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	var/pressure = air_contents.return_pressure()
 	if(pressure > 300)
@@ -497,7 +497,7 @@ GLOBAL_LIST_INIT(gas_id_to_canister, init_gas_id_to_canister())
 		return TRUE
 	if(machine_stat & BROKEN)
 		return TRUE
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing cracks in [src]..."))
 	while(tool.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=40))
diff --git a/code/modules/clothing/glasses/_glasses.dm b/code/modules/clothing/glasses/_glasses.dm
index 2acfc96316e..b52f8f7304c 100644
--- a/code/modules/clothing/glasses/_glasses.dm
+++ b/code/modules/clothing/glasses/_glasses.dm
@@ -306,7 +306,7 @@
 		return
 	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
-	if(I.use_tool(src, user, 10, volume=30, amount=1))
+	if(I.use_tool(src, user, 10, volume=30))
 		user.visible_message(span_notice("[user] welds [src] back together."),\
 					span_notice("You weld [src] back together."))
 		repair()
diff --git a/code/modules/food_and_drinks/machinery/smartfridge.dm b/code/modules/food_and_drinks/machinery/smartfridge.dm
index a7bc7a57c62..db6ed91f8ab 100644
--- a/code/modules/food_and_drinks/machinery/smartfridge.dm
+++ b/code/modules/food_and_drinks/machinery/smartfridge.dm
@@ -67,14 +67,14 @@
 	if(istype(src, /obj/machinery/smartfridge/drying_rack))
 		return FALSE
 	if(welded_down)
-		if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
+		if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 			return TRUE
 		user.visible_message(
 			span_notice("[user.name] starts to cut the [name] free from the floor."),
 			span_notice("You start to cut [src] free from the floor..."),
 			span_hear("You hear welding."),
 		)
-		if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, delay=100, amount=1, volume=100))
+		if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, delay=100, volume=100))
 			return FALSE
 		welded_down = FALSE
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You cut [src] free from the floor."))
@@ -82,14 +82,14 @@
 	if(!anchored)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("[src] needs to be wrenched to the floor!"))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
+	if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=2))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(
 		span_notice("[user.name] starts to weld the [name] to the floor."),
 		span_notice("You start to weld [src] to the floor..."),
 		span_hear("You hear welding."),
 	)
-	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, delay=100, amount=1, volume=100))
+	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, delay=100, volume=100))
 		balloon_alert(user, "cancelled!")
 		return FALSE
 	welded_down = TRUE
@@ -101,7 +101,7 @@
 	if(istype(src, /obj/machinery/smartfridge/drying_rack))
 		return FALSE
 	if(machine_stat & BROKEN)
-		if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!tool.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return FALSE
 		user.visible_message(
 			span_notice("[user] is repairing [src]."),
diff --git a/code/modules/industrial_lift/tram/tram_walls.dm b/code/modules/industrial_lift/tram/tram_walls.dm
index f52e75c23bb..c8bf7e970b5 100644
--- a/code/modules/industrial_lift/tram/tram_walls.dm
+++ b/code/modules/industrial_lift/tram/tram_walls.dm
@@ -35,7 +35,7 @@
 
 /obj/structure/tramwall/attackby(obj/item/welder, mob/user, params)
 	if(welder.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-		if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=round(slicing_duration / 50)))
 			return FALSE
 
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin slicing through the outer plating..."))
diff --git a/code/modules/mining/ores_coins.dm b/code/modules/mining/ores_coins.dm
index a408108b95a..be63e3888c8 100644
--- a/code/modules/mining/ores_coins.dm
+++ b/code/modules/mining/ores_coins.dm
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@
 	if(!refined_type)
 		return TRUE
 
-	if(I.use_tool(src, user, 0, volume=50, amount=15))
+	if(I.use_tool(src, user, 0, volume=50))
 		new refined_type(drop_location())
 		use(1)
 
diff --git a/code/modules/modular_computers/computers/item/computer.dm b/code/modules/modular_computers/computers/item/computer.dm
index 93556ecd132..70d54b9284b 100644
--- a/code/modules/modular_computers/computers/item/computer.dm
+++ b/code/modules/modular_computers/computers/item/computer.dm
@@ -788,7 +788,7 @@ GLOBAL_LIST_EMPTY(TabletMessengers) // a list of all active messengers, similar
 		return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You begin repairing damage to \the [src]..."))
-	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50, amount=1))
+	if(!tool.use_tool(src, user, 20, volume=50))
 		return TOOL_ACT_TOOLTYPE_SUCCESS
 	atom_integrity = max_integrity
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You repair \the [src]."))
diff --git a/code/modules/plumbing/plumbers/_plumb_machinery.dm b/code/modules/plumbing/plumbers/_plumb_machinery.dm
index bce4fcc1e3e..52b6ee97a39 100644
--- a/code/modules/plumbing/plumbers/_plumb_machinery.dm
+++ b/code/modules/plumbing/plumbers/_plumb_machinery.dm
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@
 	. = ..()
 	if(anchored)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("The [name] needs to be unbolted to do that!"))
-	if(I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You start slicing the [name] apart."))
 		if(I.use_tool(src, user, (1.5 SECONDS), volume=50))
 			deconstruct(TRUE)
diff --git a/code/modules/power/apc/apc_tool_act.dm b/code/modules/power/apc/apc_tool_act.dm
index 1a645c4ebe2..76d714ed957 100644
--- a/code/modules/power/apc/apc_tool_act.dm
+++ b/code/modules/power/apc/apc_tool_act.dm
@@ -124,7 +124,7 @@
 		if (machine_stat & BROKEN)
 			balloon_alert(user, "too damaged to repair!")
 			return
-		if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return
 		balloon_alert(user, "repairing...")
 		if(welder.use_tool(src, user, 4 SECONDS, volume = 50))
@@ -135,12 +135,12 @@
 	//disassembling the frame
 	if(!opened || has_electronics || terminal)
 		return
-	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=3))
+	if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user.name] welds [src]."), \
 						span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	balloon_alert(user, "welding the APC frame")
-	if(!welder.use_tool(src, user, 50, volume=50, amount=3))
+	if(!welder.use_tool(src, user, 50, volume=50))
 		return
 	if((machine_stat & BROKEN) || opened == APC_COVER_REMOVED)
 		new /obj/item/stack/sheet/iron(loc)
diff --git a/code/modules/power/gravitygenerator.dm b/code/modules/power/gravitygenerator.dm
index ddbc1a31f55..588bea85dd6 100644
--- a/code/modules/power/gravitygenerator.dm
+++ b/code/modules/power/gravitygenerator.dm
@@ -228,7 +228,7 @@ GLOBAL_LIST_EMPTY(gravity_generators)
 					return
 			if(GRAV_NEEDS_WELDING)
 				if(weapon.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER)
-					if(weapon.use_tool(src, user, 0, volume=50, amount=1))
+					if(weapon.use_tool(src, user, 0, volume=50))
 						to_chat(user, span_notice("You mend the damaged framework."))
 						broken_state++
 						update_appearance()
diff --git a/code/modules/power/singularity/emitter.dm b/code/modules/power/singularity/emitter.dm
index efc5542b1c1..ec0488fd83d 100644
--- a/code/modules/power/singularity/emitter.dm
+++ b/code/modules/power/singularity/emitter.dm
@@ -265,7 +265,7 @@
 		return TRUE
 
 	if(welded)
-		if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return TRUE
 		user.visible_message(span_notice("[user.name] starts to cut the [name] free from the floor."), \
 			span_notice("You start to cut [src] free from the floor..."), \
@@ -281,7 +281,7 @@
 	if(!anchored)
 		to_chat(user, span_warning("[src] needs to be wrenched to the floor!"))
 		return TRUE
-	if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!item.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 	user.visible_message(span_notice("[user.name] starts to weld the [name] to the floor."), \
 		span_notice("You start to weld [src] to the floor..."), \
diff --git a/code/modules/power/singularity/field_generator.dm b/code/modules/power/singularity/field_generator.dm
index 6fe5370a9ae..88534d7e9b0 100644
--- a/code/modules/power/singularity/field_generator.dm
+++ b/code/modules/power/singularity/field_generator.dm
@@ -141,7 +141,7 @@ no power level overlay is currently in the overlays list.
 			to_chat(user, span_warning("[src] needs to be wrenched to the floor!"))
 
 		if(FG_SECURED)
-			if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return TRUE
 			user.visible_message(
 				span_notice("[user] starts to weld [src] to the floor."),
@@ -152,7 +152,7 @@ no power level overlay is currently in the overlays list.
 				to_chat(user, span_notice("You weld the field generator to the floor."))
 
 		if(FG_WELDED)
-			if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!welder.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return TRUE
 			user.visible_message(
 				span_notice("[user] starts to cut [src] free from the floor."),
diff --git a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/bin.dm b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/bin.dm
index 8ba36404683..c241c3087f8 100644
--- a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/bin.dm
+++ b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/bin.dm
@@ -116,7 +116,7 @@
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("You [panel_open ? "remove":"attach"] the screws around the power connection."))
 			return
 		else if(I.tool_behaviour == TOOL_WELDER && panel_open)
-			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+			if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 				return
 
 			to_chat(user, span_notice("You start slicing the floorweld off \the [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/construction.dm b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/construction.dm
index 440f1131443..f01e2ae1dea 100644
--- a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/construction.dm
+++ b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/construction.dm
@@ -154,7 +154,7 @@
 			to_chat(user, span_warning("A disposals machine already exists here!"))
 			return TRUE
 
-		if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+		if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 			return TRUE
 
 		to_chat(user, span_notice("You start welding the [pipename] in place..."))
diff --git a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/outlet.dm b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/outlet.dm
index e37e9acb9a9..c63c347ec69 100644
--- a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/outlet.dm
+++ b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/outlet.dm
@@ -78,7 +78,7 @@
 
 /obj/structure/disposaloutlet/welder_act(mob/living/user, obj/item/I)
 	..()
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 
 	playsound(src, 'sound/items/welder2.ogg', 100, TRUE)
diff --git a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/pipe.dm b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/pipe.dm
index e35be284bad..7d756fe7d43 100644
--- a/code/modules/recycling/disposal/pipe.dm
+++ b/code/modules/recycling/disposal/pipe.dm
@@ -150,7 +150,7 @@
 	if(!can_be_deconstructed(user))
 		return TRUE
 
-	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=0))
+	if(!I.tool_start_check(user, amount=1))
 		return TRUE
 
 	to_chat(user, span_notice("You start slicing [src]..."))
diff --git a/code/modules/vehicles/atv.dm b/code/modules/vehicles/atv.dm
index bf923cd6c3c..c4fd2bcaceb 100644
--- a/code/modules/vehicles/atv.dm
+++ b/code/modules/vehicles/atv.dm
@@ -92,7 +92,7 @@
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	var/did_the_thing
 	while(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=1))
+		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50))
 			did_the_thing = TRUE
 			atom_integrity += min(10, (max_integrity - atom_integrity))
 			audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
diff --git a/code/modules/vehicles/bicycle.dm b/code/modules/vehicles/bicycle.dm
index 1771bb96133..cc0643be026 100644
--- a/code/modules/vehicles/bicycle.dm
+++ b/code/modules/vehicles/bicycle.dm
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	var/did_the_thing
 	while(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=1, extra_checks = CALLBACK(src, PROC_REF(can_still_fix))))
+		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, extra_checks = CALLBACK(src, PROC_REF(can_still_fix))))
 			did_the_thing = TRUE
 			atom_integrity += min(10, (max_integrity - atom_integrity))
 			audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
diff --git a/code/modules/vehicles/cars/vim.dm b/code/modules/vehicles/cars/vim.dm
index 8079f7cc6b6..a37c6e18b8e 100644
--- a/code/modules/vehicles/cars/vim.dm
+++ b/code/modules/vehicles/cars/vim.dm
@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	var/did_the_thing
 	while(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=1))
+		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50))
 			did_the_thing = TRUE
 			atom_integrity += min(VIM_HEAL_AMOUNT, (max_integrity - atom_integrity))
 			audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
diff --git a/code/modules/vehicles/mecha/mecha_defense.dm b/code/modules/vehicles/mecha/mecha_defense.dm
index 0747716ce49..d858e195cd0 100644
--- a/code/modules/vehicles/mecha/mecha_defense.dm
+++ b/code/modules/vehicles/mecha/mecha_defense.dm
@@ -355,7 +355,7 @@
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	var/did_the_thing
 	while(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=1))
+		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50))
 			did_the_thing = TRUE
 			atom_integrity += min(10, (max_integrity - atom_integrity))
 			audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
diff --git a/code/modules/vehicles/secway.dm b/code/modules/vehicles/secway.dm
index 337c154d869..fb237393338 100644
--- a/code/modules/vehicles/secway.dm
+++ b/code/modules/vehicles/secway.dm
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@
 	audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))
 	var/did_the_thing
 	while(atom_integrity < max_integrity)
-		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50, amount=1))
+		if(W.use_tool(src, user, 2.5 SECONDS, volume=50))
 			did_the_thing = TRUE
 			atom_integrity += min(10, (max_integrity - atom_integrity))
 			audible_message(span_hear("You hear welding."))