Go to any hardware store and you will see thousands of tools. Where to start? What are the best tools that any homeowner should have? I have compiled a list of the handiest hand tools that I personally own and have used for many years. Use this as a gift guide for someone who is just getting started, just graduate, or just bought their first home.
Having the proper tool for the job is most important. I also want you to have the best hand tools that your money can buy without breaking the bank. My suggestions are a starting point. Please don’t go buy the cheap homeowner all-inclusive tool sets if you are starting out- their quality is often not good and frankly, you might not even need everything in the set or that one needed tool may be missing (just my opinion). A good set of tools is like a collection, it’ll build over time. I hope this gives you a head start.
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Tape Measure #1 – Komelon SM5425 25 foot Gripper Speed-Mark (Amazon)
Tape Measure #2 – Komelon SL2812 12 ft Self-Lock Tape Measure (Amazon)
Screwdriver Set – Craftsman Slotted and Phillips 14 piece set CMHT65045 (Amazon)
Level – Johnson Level & Tool 24” with Rule 1300-1400 (Amazon)
Topedo Level – Johnson Level & Tool 12” Torpedo Level 1421-1200 (Amazon)
Basic Slip Joint Pliers – Craftsman Slip Joint 8” Pliers (Amazon)
Groove Joint Pliers – Craftsman Groove Joint 10” Pliers (Amazon)
Needle Nose Pliers – Needle Nose pliers with cutting and crimper (Amazon)
Side Cutting Pliers – Greenlee 0151-09D Side Cutting Pliers (Amazon)
Painter’s Tool – Warner ProGrip 5-in-1 Painter’s Tool (Amazon)
Box Cutter – OLFA Self-Retracting Safety Utility Knife SK-4 (Amazon)
Wrench Set – Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set SAE and metric (Amazon)
Box End Wrenches – Craftsman CMMT87018 Combination Wrench Set (Amazon)
Adjustable Wrench – Craftsman Adjustable Wrench Set CMMT12006 (Amazon)
Tape Measure – Komelon SM5425 25 foot Gripper Speed-Mark (Amazon)
Komelon 25 ft Gripper Tape Measure
The Komelon Gripper Speed Mark 25 foot tape measure has many features that I have found to make this my favorite. The tape measure has some weight to it, which to me means it doesn’t feel cheap. The rubber coating and wide body prevent it from sliding across the floor when doing a long solo measurement. I really like the white tape with black markings. The markings are crisp and it marks fractions on the ⅛” interval making measuring just a little easier taking the guesswork out. Did I mention that the locking mechanism moves easily, but not too easily creating a solid lock on the tape without feeling like I am going to break my thumb using it. Want a smaller model, the 16 foot model works the same, with a smaller profile.
Komelon 25 ft. Gripper Tape Measure fits in hand.
Tape Measure – Komelon SL2812 12 ft Self-Lock Tape Measure (Amazon)
Komelon Self-Lock 12 ft. Tape Measure
This smaller 12 foot tape measure is the tape measure I use for small jobs or when I need to measure something in the store or lumberyard. The 12 foot model fits the hand really well with the rubberized grip with an always on lock. It unlocks easy with a gentle press of the button. I note that the tape lock is not super strong, so it might slide a little on you. This is just a small trade I make on a great tape measure that fits easily in a pocket or purse.
Size comparison of 12 ft., 16 ft., and 25 ft. tape measures.
Easy to read tape measure numbers and markings.
Hammer – Estwing 16 oz. E3-16S (Amazon)
Estwing 16 ounce E3-16S Hammer
I have used dozens of hammers and this is the one for me. The weight and balance combined with the rubberized grip make this an easy hammer to swing. I really like the fact that the section between the handle and the head is metal and narrow making it easier to work with in tight areas. The claw angle also provides good leverage for those demolition related tasks. I like the all-metal design over wood and fiberglass for its rigidity and durability. I can’t say that I notice any extra vibration transfer to my hand using this model making it comfortable to use. Don’t believe me, check out the reviews on Amazon and see for yourself.
Screwdriver – Lenox Tools 9-in-1 Screwdriver (Amazon)
Multipurpose Lenox 9-in-1 Screwdriver.
Sometimes I find that multi-tools are good at their intended tasks, but not great. This little gem was recently introduced to me and I wish I had found it sooner. The interchangeable parts fit tightly together, but not so tight that they are a pain to get apart. The bits are solidly made too. I like individual screwdrivers for certain tasks, but when you just do not know what you are going to need, this will cover most of your basics.
Lenox 9-in-1 screwdriver parts.
Screwdriver Set – Craftsman Slotted and Phillips 14 piece set CMHT65045 (Amazon)
Craftsman Slotted and Phillips Screwdrivers.
I have a set in my basement workshop and a set in the garage. These screwdrivers will cover almost everything you will encounter in the slotted and Phillips head categories. The handle grips feel natural and provide good surface area for your hand to apply a lot of torque. These have been around for a long time and will last a really long time.
Level – Johnson Level & Tool 24” with Rule 1300-1400 (Amazon)
Level with measurement markings – excellent feature for hanging photos and shelves on walls for easy anchor or nail spacing.
A level has many uses. As a homeowner, my main use of a level is for hanging items on the wall. The level that I am recommending has a built in ruler printed on it which makes measuring the spacing and alignment of 2-point photos or brackets a simple task. Before I had this, I used a tape measure and I think I failed more times than I was successful. All I do is make the first mark, set the bubble to level, and then mark the second at the predetermined spacing. The model I have is a 32” model which appears to be discontinued. The 24” model should suit you well for the vast majority of tasks. If you have wide photos or shelves, consider the 36” or even the 48” model based on your needs. But remember that wall studs are 16″ on center, so the 24″ model will work fine, but you’ll have to move it over a few extra times for those long runs.
Topedo Level – Johnson Level & Tool 12” Torpedo Level 1421-1200 (Amazon)
Torpedo style level with various bubble vials, aluminum top, and magnetic bottom.
For smaller jobs or tight spaces, I use a torpedo level. The 12” model fits in your toolbox or pocket for easy transport. The model I have is a Craftsman 9-39861 which has since been discontinued. The Johnson Level & Tool model is almost identical. For portability and ease of use, I marginally use this more than that larger levels. It really just depends on the job – sometimes using two levels at the same time comes in handy.
Combination Square – Empire e250 (Amazon)
12″ Empire e250 Combination Square
As a hobby woodworker, this is an essential tool. From squaring up my tools, to measuring the depth, to marking 45 or 90 degree lines – this tool makes things easy. Need to mark a line parallel to the edge that is up to 10” in? Set the gauge and scribe the line as far as you like. It has 1/8”, 1/16”, and 1/32” markings for added precision. I don’t use the level feature for much, but you might find it handy. If you forget your marking tool, a small scribe tool is included. When looking for any measuring tool, make sure you prioritize contrasting text – black typeface with a silver background. This makes it much easier on the eyes compared to simply etched in markings.
The combination square can also be used for true 90 degree angle.
Basic Pliers – Craftsman Slip Joint 8” Pliers (Amazon)
Slip joint pliers.
My Craftsman 945378 slip joint pliers have been discontinued, but the basic design remains with Craftsman and other brands. These help gripping into things that are too small for your fingers to grasp. Using the inner teeth, I’ve used these numerous times to hold nuts in place when assembling furniture when I was too lazy to grab a socket set or wrench. The uses for this tool are so numerous. I guarantee you’ll find yourself wanting these at some point.
Groove Joint Pliers – Craftsman Groove Joint 10” Pliers (Amazon)
Craftsman groove joint pliers.
Again, my trusty Craftsman 945381 10” groove joint pliers have been discontinued, but newer versions are made today with enhanced grips. If I have any plumbing job (like cleaning a p-trap) – I’m grabbing this set of pliers. The adjustable jaws open wide to grip onto most under sink plumbing. Want to keep a pipe from slipping, just like a mini pipe wrench, these will enhance your grip and make work easy.
Needle Nose Pliers – Needle Nose pliers with cutting and crimper (Amazon)
Needle nose pliers.
Needle nose pliers help with those small jobs. I’ve repaired quite a few of my wife’s necklaces where the chain links have spread open – could not have done it without needle nose pliers I don’t think. Not sure if this really saved us money or just got me brownie points – either way – I’ll take it. Look for a smaller or medium size set, but know the limitations. The points can break or bend out of alignment if the task is too big for the pliers.
Side Cutting Pliers – Greenlee 0151-09D Side Cutting Pliers (Amazon)
Greenlee side cutting pliers (lineman’s pliers).
The side cutting pliers is a favorite tool of farmers and electric linemen due to its versatility. The tips of the pliers are flat for squeezing or gripping. Closer to the pivot are cutters which is ideal for aluminum or copper. 9” side cutters, regardless of brand (Greenlee, Klein) are considered high leverage which makes using the cutting function much easier on your hand. These are my go-to pliers for cutting electrical wire and for pulling on and trimming off the tail from a zip tie.
Putty Knife – Flexible 2” Putty Knife (Amazon)
Well used and newer flexible putty knives. Make sure to take care of your tools!
A 2” flexible putty knife will help your wall repair look professional. No need to to too fancy here, it’s just for applying a nice thin uniform layer of spackle. Perfect for repairing small holes or scratches in your drywall. If you are just filling small nail holes, the tip of your finger will do. One bit of advice though, make sure you clean AND dry it as soon as you are done with it. Depending on the metal, these can rust and lose their smooth finish making your next use not as enjoyable.
Painter’s Tool – Warner ProGrip 5-in-1 Painter’s Tool (Amazon)
It doesn’t look pretty, but this painter’s tool has served me well.
The painter’s tool has a rigid backbone which makes it ideal for scraping. Honestly, I rarely use it for painting. The rounded inner curve is supposed to be for cleaning paint rollers – I use my hands for that. I do use this for scraping away paint, glue, or caulk among other purposes.
Box Cutter – OLFA Self-Retracting Safety Utility Knife SK-4 (Amazon)
OLFA SK-4 self-retracting utility knife.
This is truthfully one of the best tools on the list. My wife and I use this on a daily basis thanks to all of the on-line shopping that we do. If you are moving – get one. You’ll be opening and breaking down a ton of boxes. This box cutter is awesome for moves.
What makes this the best box cutter is that your thumb slides the blade out and as soon as you are done with the cut, you take your thumb off the slide and it retracts instantly. No more exposed razor blade. I’ve used other self-retracting models – others don’t feel as solid in the hand or they have awkward safety mechanisms that make them difficult to use. Yes, even though this is a “safety” model, you can still cut yourself with the sharp point or razer blade. All basic cutting rules still apply. Blade changes are as easy as it gets. I have one in the kitchen ready to open our newly arrived goodies and one in the garage for breaking down boxes for our recycler.
OLFA SK-4 utility knife is perfect for opening boxes.
Utility Knife – Stanley Utility Knife 99 (Amazon)
Stanley utility knife fits in hand well with a solid power grip.
You might be wondering, why is there a second utility knife on the list? Well, this one is the tried and true utility knife for the heavier jobs – not only for cutting open boxes. Unlike the OLFA SK-4, the blade stays out. I’ve used this to score drywall, cut carpet, trim landscape fabric, cut holes in boxes for my kid’s Halloween costumes, and many more odd jobs in between. You’ll be glad you had this utility cutter in your tool box as it comes in very handy.
Hand Saw – Stanley FatMax 15” Hand Saw 20-045 (Amazon)
Stanley hand saw.
While this won’t easily fit into your tool box, nor would I recommend you put it there, a hand saw is a basic hand tool that will probably pay for itself. While it’s not made for big carpentry jobs, it makes small jobs a breeze. There are times that I don’t need the precise cut of a powered miter saw and I don’t want to lug around that or the wood, so I’ll opt for a 15” hand saw. Works best with pine or other softwoods. Need a dowel trimmed quick? This is your tool. Much cheaper than a powered miter saw too.
Wrench Set – Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set SAE and metric (Amazon)
Allen wrenches, sockets, and ratchets all part of a mechanic wrench set.
I know that I said earlier to stay away from sets. I’m going to break that rule for this one as buying a set makes the shopping so much easier. Craftsman Mechanics Tool Sets come in various configurations.
Look for one with a set of open and closed box end wrenches, ratchets with ample sockets, ratchet extensions, and also a set of Allen wrenches. I’ve assembled furniture, shelving, exercise equipment, and fixed my car with a set like this. That’s how versatile and practical having a good set of wrenches is.
I recommend ¼”, ⅜” and ½” ratchets as they each fulfill a different need around the house and in the garage. In addition, having access to both metric and SAE sizes will be a plus. Will you need more eventually? Probably, but a good starter set will get about 95% of the jobs done. Yes, they are pricey, but they will last you a long time and save you both time and money in the long run.
When tightening or loosening threaded bolts and nuts, having the right wrench is essential. A quality wrench set for a homeowner should last a lifetime, so get a good quality set of open and closed end box wrenches.
Adjustable Wrench – Craftsman Adjustable Wrench Set CMMT12006 (Amazon)
8″ and 10″ Adjustable Wrenches.
When you don’t have the right size box end wrench or you need a second of the same size for a back-up wrench, these adjustable wrenches come in very handy. Don’t know the size of a nut or bolt? Grab an adjustable wrench instead of taking all of your combination box end wrenches.
Flashlight – MagLite Mini LED (Amazon)
MagLite Mini flashlight.
Nothing fancy with this flashlight. It just does the job well. It’s bright, its light focus ring is adjustable, and best yet, fits in your pocket. What more can I say?
Headlamp – Streamlight Enduro Pro 61421 Headlamp (Amazon)
Streamlight Enduro Pro headlamp.
When you are repairing or putting something together, generally your hands are both being used for tools and parts. But what about when it’s dark? You don’t always have that third hand available. I’ve found a good headlamp that makes jobs in dark areas much easier. Yes, it’s not the coolest or most fashion forward look, but the practicality is priceless. Get one that you can change the downward light angle and also one that you can manually dim or brighten.
Parts Bowl – Magnetic Parts Bowl (Amazon)
Well used round magnetic parts tray.
How you are able to manage small parts when assembling or disassembling can be the difference between an easy job or a tedious one. A magnetic parts tray keeps small parts accessible, yet contained. Many times, parts come in small bags or blister packs. These are not convenient for seeing the individual parts nor do they make it easy to grab the needed pieces. If you want to save a few bucks, a small plastic butter dish or whipped topping container works well too. The magnetized versions are just one more layer of security in case you accidentally bump the tray.
Clamps – Irwin Quick Grip Clamps (Amazon)
Set of Irwin quick-grip clamps.
At some point, you’ll need to glue something together or will just need a third hand. A set of clamps can make certain assemblies and repairs easier. I personally like the quick grip style for their speed – get the jaws close and give the grip a few solid squeezes and you are set. To release, pull the lever.
The rubber pads also add to the grip and also help protect the surface from scratching. C-clamps and F-style clamps are also good and have their place (I mainly use F-style clamps for woodworking), but they are a little slower to use because you turn a handle until tight. Regardless of the style you like, I suggest having a minimum of 4 clamps – when you are using them, you never seem to have enough.
Conclusion
I don’t have a tool rack or tool box on this list. If you have a great recommendation, comment below. If I have missed anything, let me know that too.
The list of available tools and gadgets available is nearly endless. I hope that you have found this list useful and helps you get better equipped for tackling jobs around the house and remember that with a little bit of planning we did it, you can too!
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