Tools every man should own

Teach: Tools every man should own

What to say

The tools worth owning first are a tape measure, a claw hammer, a multi-bit screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, two pairs of pliers, a utility knife, a small level, a stud finder, a cordless drill with a bit set, a flashlight and safety glasses. That kit covers hanging, tightening, cutting and measuring. Add tools only when a real job asks for one.

What to show, in order

1. Start with the measuring and marking tools: a 25-foot tape measure, a pencil and a small torpedo level.
2. Add the hand tools: a 16-ounce claw hammer, a multi-bit screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, slip-joint pliers, needle-nose pliers and a utility knife with spare blades.
3. Add a cordless drill with a starter set of drill and driver bits; it replaces a drawer of screwdrivers.
4. Add the finding and fixing basics: a stud finder, a plunger, a flashlight or headlamp, a set of hex keys and a roll of painter's tape.
5. Add protection before your first loud or dusty job: safety glasses, ear protection and a few dust masks.
6. Keep it all in one toolbox or bag so you can carry the whole kit to the job.
7. Buy the next tool when a job needs it, and borrow or rent anything you will use once.

The check question

Ask: Which tool replaces most of a drawer of screwdrivers? Answer: A cordless drill with a driver bit set

From EveryManSkills. General information, not professional advice.