@neologist,
When I first got Rocky, he was trying to attack my circular saw. Then, all the other things I mentioned. The first time he saw my lawn mower in action, he came up so fast that he was able to grab the piece where the clippings are expelled and drag it several inches. I built an enclosure to use my saws and drills out of his reach. I carry a five foot long stick to ward him off from the mower. His previous owner must have taught him the meaning of a stick, because it doesn't take much of a demonstration to back him off.