Hammer
A good medium weight hammer, like 10 oz or so, with straighter claws, suitable for most home repair tasks.
Power Drill
A solid power drill is essential. Brands like DeWalt offer reliability, while Ryobi offers a mix-and-match set for expanding your tool collection.
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Invest in a 25' Fat Max from Stanley for accurate measurements. It's durable and reliable.
Multimeter
A multimeter is indispensable for electrical work, allowing you to measure currents and check live circuits.
Drill Bits/Drivers
Drill bits and drivers are essential for cutting holes and driving screws. Opt for quality brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee.
Pliers
Channel Lock brand pliers offer versatility with wire cutters, needle nose, slip joint, and the channel lock, making them suitable for various tasks.
Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench, also known as a monkey wrench, is essential for any plumbing tasks.
Adjustable Crescent Wrench
Instead of a mechanics wrench set, invest in two adjustable crescent wrenches for versatility in tasks like assembling furniture or plumbing.
Vise Grips
Choose name brand vise grips for reliability. These pliers allow you to lock them shut, making them ideal for various tasks.
Hand Saw and Hack Saw
A hand saw for wood and a hack saw for metal cover most DIY tasks around the house.
Levels
Invest in two levels: one about two feet long and one about 6" called a torpedo level, for ensuring accuracy in measurements and angles.
Framer’s Square
A framer’s square helps you determine if what you're working with is at a perfect 90-degree angle.
Caulk Gun
A mid-priced caulk gun is essential for sealing gaps and joints. Choose one that offers value for your money.
Various Sealants and Adhesives
Stock up on duct tape, Teflon tape, pipe dope, caulking, liquid nails, wood glue, and goof off for sealing, binding, joining, and cleaning.
Screws, Nails, and Anchors
Keep varying sizes and uses of screws, nails, and anchors handy for various repair and installation tasks.
Small Compressor
A small compressor is useful for nail guns, tire inflation, and power dusting. Look for durable options like a pancake compressor by Porter Cable or Dewalt.
Rubber Mallet
A rubber mallet is handy for adjusting furniture or pieces that need a little tapping to fit right.
Standard Hand Tool Set
A basic set of Phillips head and flat head screwdrivers, placed strategically around the house or garage, are constantly useful for various tasks.
Flashlights
Place flashlights all around the house for emergencies or tasks in low-light conditions.
Paint Equipment
Ensure you have all necessary paint equipment including rollers, brushes, drop cloths, and paint itself for any painting projects.
Stud Finder
A magnetic stud finder is accurate and fits easily in your tool bag, making it essential for various tasks around the house.
Zip Ties
A bag of zip ties comes in handy for various purposes around the house.
Head Lamp
A headlamp is useful for tasks in areas with limited light, such as gardening at night or accessing the garage.