I think the perfect tool for creative recycling is the reciprocating saw. You can cut up pallets, tires, PVC pipe, glass, steel, cement blocks, stone, galvanized pipe, prune your fruit trees, with the proper blades. The harder materials require an abrasive, carbide blade. Replacement and carbide blades aren't really expensive, either.

You can tear down whole buildings with such a saw, a hammer, and a crowbar. They can be purchased used or reconditioned.

Norm