Tools… every guy needs them. Even the cheapest handyman costs 1000% more than fixing it yourself. That’s why many guys (and gals, too) choose to keep a toolset around and practice the art of do-it-yourself (DIY).
Some of you might be patting yourselves on the back right now, admiring the extensive collection of tools you’ve acquired over the years. It’s good to be proud of your collection. It’s also true that there are those particular tools that see more use than others, the ones that even the less handy members of society will get lots of use out of in day-to-day tasks. Which tools are those? Read on to find out.
Claw Hammer
A tool that’s practicality is only matched by its simplicity. Pounds nails, flattens chicken breasts and removes the nails you miss the first time, that get all bent out of shape. No toolset is complete without one.
Cordless Drill
For all jobs that cannot be accomplished using the first tool in our set, there is this. Choose one with good battery life and enough power, and you can sink fasteners in everything from particleboard to masonry.
Air Compressor
You might not need a big one, but having access to a compressor is more practical than you might think. The right attachment can make this into a power tool, reinflate the tire on your car, or help powerwash your driveway.
Socket Set
Trying to do anything that involves tightening or loosening multiple fasteners using an old-fashioned box wrench can take ages. Instead, make an investment in a good ratchet and socket set. They will save you years of re-setting your wrench when it comes time to finish a project.
Crescent Wrench
For all the jobs where you’re unsure which socket to choose, there is the crescent wrench. One of the most versatile tools around, and one no set is complete without. Particularly handy for plumbing jobs where you’ll want the larger variety of this versatile wrench.
Drop Light
Every job takes longer in the dark. If your toolset doesn’t include a light, you’re severely limiting what you’re able to get done. Our recommendation is to get one with an extension cord and fixtures that allow you to suspend it from the ceiling, a car door, or whatever’s convenient really.
Reciprocating Saw
If you ever need to do a demolition job, this is your one-size-fits-all tool. Handy because it’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces and it can cut through just about anything with the right blade installed, this is one of the more expensive items on this list, but every bit worth the price.
Bucket
Can a bucket be considered a tool? It should be. Not only can a bucket be used as a container for all of your other tools (try draping a tool belt over it) it can also be…a bucket! There are lots of jobs that will call for you to carry water, other liquids, solids like soil or just have a temporary trash container. Hooray bucket!
Ladder
Similar to the bucket and drop light, this might not seem like a conventional “tool” however the number of jobs you can accomplish with your otherwise basic set of tools will expand exponentially when you can reach those lofty places. A ladder makes mounting pictures, stashing items in the loft and cleaning your ceiling fan possible.
Pliers
Sometimes you need to get a grip on something and a wrench or socket won’t do the job. A pair of versatile pliers is just the tool you need. Select from popular varieties like the Linesman’s pliers, which combine a standard flat nose with cutters for wires, or channel-locks which can be locked into place to serve as a clamp if needed and give you a sure grip when working with slippery items.
Get yourself a good solid toolbox to keep all this stuff in, people love stealing expensive tools, and then keep track of the tools you buy so that you only have to buy them once. It’s always a good feeling when you can get something done without needing outside help, and if you’re open to new challenges, you can invest in the tools you need for them along the way, adding to your collection.
