Dear James: I’m moving into my first house, and it needs some work. I don’t have any tools. What type of hand tools should I buy to get my own toolbox started?—Holli W.
Dear Holli: Even if you are moving into a new house, you will find many needed projects that require basic hand tools and a few simple power tools. Buy a toolbox which is larger than you think you will need initially. As you start doing projects, there will likely be some specialty tools you'll end up buying.
The old saying that “If something does not fit correctly or will not come loose, just get a bigger hammer,” still applies. If your budget allows for only one hammer, get a 20-ounce vibration-damping type. Ridgid Tool makes a high-tech looking one that actually absorbs the shock very well and is comfortable to use.
A 25-foot tape measure is also a must for every do-it-yourselfer. Longer ones are available, but they are cumbersome to handle and you seldom will need the extra length. For one-person use, a 1-inch wide tape measure will allow you to extend it a long distance without it bending. Look for one with an easily replaceable tape.
If you plan to do any structural projects around your house, you will need some levels. Don’t ever try to eyeball whether a stud or beam is level because, unless you have bionic eyes, you will certainly be off.
A 2-foot bubble-type of level is adequate. There are very jazzy electronic levels for the professional, but they are probably out of your price range. A short torpedo bubble level is inexpensive, handy for small jobs, and easy to carry. Remember, though: The longer the level is, the more accurate the measurement will be.
A good-quality set of chisels is also a must for any do-it-yourselfer’s toolbox. It is surprising how a little chiseling can make a part fit in place even if you cut the part incorrectly. It is probably least expensive to buy an entire set of them so that you have all the common sizes.
You will need both flat blade and Phillips screwdrivers. Both are fairly inexpensive to buy in sets. They are always on sale somewhere. If you plan to use your screwdrivers as pry bars and chisels too, as many people do, you will need individual screwdrivers. Look for sets of these with slightly soft handles for comfort.
If you plan to use screwdrivers as they are designed to be used, consider getting a combination screwdriver that has various sizes (12 or more) of snap-in ends. Sears Craftsman makes a particularly nice one which holds the ends securely in place, but they are still easy to switch.
Some other items that you should consider are: adjustable (crescent) wrench, hand wood saw, hacksaw, lineman’s pliers for electrical work, needle nose pliers, standard pliers, slip-joint pliers, large crow bar, small pry bar, and a set of clamps. Select screw-type clamps and a pair of three different sizes.
The warranty is also a consideration when selecting tools. Not long ago, Sears Craftsman was one of the few companies to offer a lifetime replacement warranty on its hand tools. Now, many companies offer this. The same hardware store may offer some brands with lifetime warranties and some without, so make sure to ask about each tool.
Finally, you will need a toolbox to store your new hand tools. The prices of some can be quite high. You might try finding a large fishing tackle box to use. Also, consider getting a tool belt to carry them while you are working on the project.
