Basic hand tools are all that is needed for assembling things or making repairs around the house. Hand tools are useful in any project, big or small and the only required power source is a little elbow grease. Some basic hand tools include wrenches, hammers, chisels, screw drivers, block plane, measuring devices, tons of clamps and many more. Screwdrivers and hammers are some of the most commonly used tools which most of us use around the house.
A hand saw can get a project started while a utility knife can help provide finishing touches; and clamps, can give you that extra hand you can depend on to help you get your work done.
Hand tools are in some cases faster than machines. You may find that hard to believe but sometimes it is a lot faster.
It is important to have proper tools in hand to complete any job. Below is my list of the hand tools everyone needs to have in their house. Though the priority will change from person to person I am also listing them in the priority that fits most people’s lives.
1. screwdrivers: One of the first tools everyone needs is a good set of screwdrivers. This should include different sizes of slot screwdrivers, Philips #1 & #2 screwdrivers (used commonly in the US.), Robertson or square screwdrivers green, red and black, (commonly used in Canada).
It is important to buy quality hand tools. Some places like Sears, Home Hardware, and Canadian Tire carry life time warranty on their screwdrivers. Try to resist using your good screwdrivers as pry-bars or chisels.
2. claw hammer: An ordinary 16oz. claw hammer is probably your best all round hammer. I prefer using and have always bought an Estwing hammer. I find it best for balance and usability.
3. tape measure: The next tool I’d get is a 1″ wide by 25′ tape measure. A bright colored case will help you find it when you lay it down in a jumble of stuff.
4. utility knife: A utility or box knife with a retractable blade is always useful. Don’t get the cheapest because the blade retractor can slip suddenly and risk your hands and what you’re working on. Again, a colorful one is easier to locate. My personal favorite is a bright yellow Olfa knife.
5. a square: Here too are different types. A framing square 24”x16”, or for smaller jobs a combination square. I prefer the framing square for most jobs. If you have the money buy an aluminum one as it will never rust.
6. level: Again there are different sizes and types. For all round use around the house I would buy a 24” one. Here again they are not all made equal. Before you buy take the level and put it on a shelf and then turn it end for end and upside down and make sure it reads the same in all positions. Then do the same with it against a wall to check it for plumb. You could buy a torpedo level for small jobs but they aren’t as accurate and are not good for bigger jobs.
7. crescent wrench: This is an adjustable wrench which you can make fit any size of nut. A good size would be a 10”. Big enough to do most big job yet can be used for small ones as well.
8. channelocks: A 12″ flat-jaw, arc-joint pliers. They’re called Channelocks because that was the original and traditional brand. They are adjustable and act somewhat like a pipe wrench. A problem with Channelocks is they scar up whatever you use them on. If you use them on a decorative object (such as a chrome plated faucet) they’ll mar the surface. They are very versatile though for wrenching all kinds of different things. There are the self-adjusting style sold today, but I don’t prefer them as the self-adjusting feature can slip, and they won’t work in as tight a space as the standard Channelock style.
I should explain something here, it is my philosophy, if you are going to buy tools don’t buy the cheapest. They never make the job as easy as it should be. They brake easy and wear out quickly. Tools are an investment and they will last for years if you buy quality. At the very least buy a medium quality tool if and only if you will only be using it on the very odd occasion.
One final thought. Always work safe! Wearing safety glasses when cutting or hammering is always best. Knowing how to use a tool properly and using it for only the job it was intended for will save many injuries.