So, do you want to have Hand Tools in your home, but don’t know what do you need? This article is for you. Successful construction work starts with having the right set of tools. Whether you are a DIY-enthusiasts or a professional handyman, there is an assortment of hand tools that you must know. Some of these tools are as basic as hammers and pliers. You should not underestimate these small tools, because they are very helpful for intricate jobs.
It is always best to reach the work spot with having these tools so that nothing can interrupt your workflow. Stocking up these hand tools will prevent you from the hassle of running to the store every time. To ensure that you complete your work efficiently and on time, we’ve curated a list of 18 essential hand tools.
Check out the must-have hand tools for your inventory!
18 Essential Hand Tools You Must Own
There are different hand tools that you must own to deliver great on-site results. Many of these hand tools are suitable for homeowners a well. These tools can come in handy in general house repairs and maintenance work. Let’s have a look at the hand tools that your toolkit should have.
1. Adjustable wrench
There are a few attachments that are done with nuts and bolts. If you want to tighten or loosen up these bolts, you have to use an adjustable wrench. The wrenches can alter the size of their grasp and hold nuts and bolts of different sizes.
An adjustable wrench is a multipurpose tool that all handymen must buy. You should have adjustable wrenches of two sizes; a six-inch and a ten-inch. The small wrench will fit into smaller spaces, whereas the bigger size will give you more leverage for working with tight bolts.
2. Utility Bars
How will you make new things if you can’t demolish the old ones? It is not easy to pull out nails and remove the paneling. For such kind of tasks, you are going to require a utility bar. This versatile tool can make many of your small tasks more efficient and trouble-free. Make it a point to buy bars that have rubber handles for better grip.
The beveled ends and flat bar are designed to perform tasks likes opening crates and manholes. It is also useful for prying lightweight windows and doors, removing nails. Your utility bar should have a powder coating to prevent rusting.
3. Circular Saw
If you are going to cut a large amount of wood, a power saw can do a much better job. Even the professionals believe that a circular saw can be very handy for repair and building projects. You can perform jobs like replacing windows, adding decks, and build shelves with these saws.
There are two types of circular saws – Worm drive saws and sidewinders. The fast-spinning blade is very dangerous, so you must take extra precautions and wear protective equipment. You can also get cordless saws if you work at a place that has no power outlets. The experts suggest that the homeowners should buy sidewinder saws.
4. Drill
An electric drill is an excellent power tool that can make many tasks easier for you. You can use the drill to make different sizes of holes. These holes are useful for driving screws or running through wires through the TV cabinet.
You can also replace the drill bit with a screwdriver bit for driving screws faster. The tool is useful while repairing drywall and doing light fixtures. From building a doghouse to a bookcase, you are going to require a drill.
5. Flashlight
There will be many moments where you have to work in the dark or reach out in dimly-lit places. What are you going to do when you are in dark crevasses? It will help you to see when the power is out or sneak in compact spaces with no lighting.
Invest in flashlights that have a LED bulb. These flashlights will be brighter and last for a longer duration. You can also invest in a rechargeable flashlight. You must refrain from picking up a low-quality torch.
6. Hammer
The nail is useless without a hammer. Most of the hammers have the claw in the opposite direction of the head. This structure helps drive the nails as well as pry them out. You can use a hammer for the materials that require a good whack.
The 16-ounce hammer with a curved claw and smooth head is the most useful type. This size is ideal for delicate as well as heavy-duty jobs. The hammer can be useful for repairing a deck or hanging photo frames. Having a hammer will allow you to carry out home improvement projects.
7. Handsaw
The handsaw has toothed cutting blades attached to a handle that can make quick cuts on wood. This tool is much efficient and easy to use than a power saw. If you are planning to build a treehouse, you should consider buying a handsaw instead of a power saw.
There are three basic types of handsaw. The first is the traditional western saw, the other is the Japanese pull saw, and the last is pruning saws. While buying a handsaw, don’t forget to check the number of teeth per inch. Also, a replaceable blade is much more convenient.
8. Hardware
Just like the nail are useless without a hammer, the hammer is also no good without nails. You must keep a variety of nails, screws, nuts, and bolts in your toolkit. Keeping a stock of these small hand tools will not make you dash out to the stores every time. Nails come in different sizes and shapes.
Similarly, the screws also vary in size and type. It can also be made of different materials. The best thing to do is to buy an assortment of this small hardware. The most popular type of hardware is drywall screws, finishing nails, outdoor screws, vinyl sinkers, and galvanized nails. With plenty of nails and nuts, you can perform most kinds of repairs.
9. Level
A bubble level is a hand tool that ensures all the work you are doing does not have positioning flaws. The tools are filled with vials that make sure that your carpentry work comes out even.
If you have more professionals needs, you can also buy a laser level instead of the bubble one. It is better to buy a metal level instead of a plastic one for longevity. Using a level to make sure your woodwork has the correct alignment is the right thing to do.
10. Pliers
Pliers are great for DIY projects and homeowners. A plier has a tight grasp that allows you to pull the material or turn it. The pliers have metal teeth on one end to provide with you a tight grip. You can use them to straighten bent power plugs, removing plumber fixtures, loosening nuts.
You can even buy a set of different pliers that can be more beneficial. For DIY-work, the most common type of plier is locking pliers. A good pair of pliers should have comfortable and firm handles.
11. Putty Knife
The putty knife is also known as scapers, and it is used for a variety of repairing and construction projects. Handymen use this knife to smoothen up or apply spackle or wood putty. You can also take the help of a putty knife to remove caulk, peeling wallpaper, or paint. This narrow blade can also pry open a putty can.
The best putty knife has a stainless steel construction. The knife’s handle should have a comfortable and long grip. Having a putty knife is beneficial for homeowners as they do not have to call out for expensive contractors.
12. Screwdrivers
Have a good look at your surroundings, and count how many things are attached with screws. Handymen use screws for holding up your furniture, connecting cabinet doors, making doorknobs, and many more things. Can you think of fixing all these things without a tool? For such repairs, you need a screwdriver. Nowadays, even toys have screws.
So whenever you want to fix these things, you’ll need a screwdriver. For opening the screws and putting them back together, the screwdriver is essential. The screwdriver is one of those tools that you’ll require every day and for each repair job. For saving up space, consider buying a multi-bit screwdriver.
13. Tape
Many things are practically together with just duct tape. While many people believe that tapes are not reliable for repair jobs, however, it’s apt for quick fixes. It can come in handy for sudden leakages or small cracks. There are various kinds of tapes that you can buy for your toolbox.
The most common type is duct tape. The duct tape is extra sticky and has a woven backing. You can use it for attaching a broken handle temporarily. The other type of tapes is painter’s tape, plumber’s tape, and electrical tape. Many people use duct tapes to repair tents instead of buying a new one.
14. Tape Measure
If you are gathering your hand tools for the first time, you cannot miss out on the tape measure. A tape measure is important for accuracy and precision. You need this hand tool for measuring the materials and checking the size of your items.
You can buy a retracting and locking measuring tape. The measuring tape should be at least 12-feet long to provide usefulness. Durability is an important feature in measuring tapes. Also, pick a tape that has a colorful case for easy spotting.
15. Toolbox
Where are you planning to keep all the hand tools that you are going to buy? You are going to require a toolbox for that purpose. Your comprehensive collection of handtools require a sturdy and durable box that can efficiently store them. The toolbox will also prevent the tools from damage when they are not in use.
The latches and the lid should be strong enough so that the tools don’t come toppling out of the box. Look for a toolbox that has compartments for the small hardware. This unit also makes it easy to carry your hand tools wherever you go.
16. Utility Knife
The utility knife is one of the most underrated yet useful hand tools. You cannot cut through boxes and trim wallpapers with regular scissors. For such jobs, you will require a utility knife. A utility knife is not only useful but it is also safe. You can perform a variety of tasks with these knives.
The list of tasks this hand tool can perform is unlimited. Your utility knife should have an ergonomic and secure handle. The knife should also have space for storing spare blades. There are plenty of excellent options for utility knives.
17. Punch tools
The punch is a hand tool that has a rod-like shape. You can use this hand tool with a hammer to drive the nails. It is also beneficial for creating an impression or making holes in an object. The tip of the punch tool is shaped in tandem.
These punch tools are also useful for decorative purposes. The different types of punch are drift, spring, prick punch, transfer, pin, and center punch. You should not forget the punch tool while building up your toolbox.
18. Safety Gears
Whether you are carrying out casual repair jobs or heavy-duty repairs, the safety should be on point. To ensure maximum protection, you will need hand tools such as gloves, goggles, and a mask. The safety goggles will protect you from dust and debris that your power tools are going to emit.
A sturdy pair of heavy-duty gloves will protect your hands while you’re working with tools like saws and hammers. By wearing a dust mask, you can ensure that you are not inhaling harmful dust particles while working.
Hand Tools The Bottom line
As you are brushing up on your DIY skills, it’s also important to expand your toolkit. Don’t forget to buy durable and high-quality tools that will last for years to come. This way, you don’t have to keep spending on your hand tools.
Having hand tools is always convenient for sudden repairs and small jobs. However, advanced tools may not be useful for regular tasks. It’s better not to waste your money on tools that are going to sit and gather dust. Stock up on your essentials and get to some new building projects!
Bonus video: Top 20 Tools Every Man Should Have
Thank you for reading!