Tools Galore
When assembling your projects, make sure you have the essential tools. Here are some tools we think everybody should have in their toolbox: channeloks, pliers, pocket knife, box cutter, small and large screw drivers, files, JB Weld, scissors, caliper, cutters, vise grips, soldering iron, duct and electrical tape, imperial and metric hex keys, wire brush, flashlight, hammer, wire strippers, crimpers, tape measure, level, adjustable and fixed wrenches, and for safety, gloves and eye protection.
Last updated February 2019
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“Can I borrow your 10mm?”, I asked one of the technicians at my first engineering job. After a bit of grief he lent me the tool and told me to bring it back as soon as I was done using it. I told him I wouldn’t let him down. When I was done using it, I quickly returned it so I didn’t become somebody on his never-again list. As I started to walk away he says “when you come back next summer, make sure you have your own set of tools.” And boy, did I listen to him.
I was buying tools every chance I got. It was easy to convince myself that I needed it, even though I wouldn’t touch it for weeks once I got it. I started filling my tool bag until it was at its breaking point. Now I’ve upgraded to a tool chest to fit everything, but still keep that same tool bag around. What if I need to go mobile? I have to be ready.
The list of tools in this ProTip isn’t all that you should have, but I thought these were some of the most important for someone just starting out like I was after my first job. I love to buy tools in a set – screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers – you usually get the best deal that way. You can easily get the tools you need for under $400. No way! Yes way, check out our list below:
- Hammer – $19
- Pliers – $23
- Pocket knife – $29
- Box cutter – $14
- Screwdrivers – $19
- Tape Measure – $15
- Level – $8
- Ratcheting Wrenches – $65
- Files – $8
- JB Weld – $5
- Scissors – $20
- Caliper – $35
- Wire Strippers – $28
- Crimpers – $19
- Adjustable Wrench – $6
- Vise grips – $20
- Soldering Iron – $12
- Duct Tape – $5
- Electrical Tape – $4
- Imperial & Metric Hex Keys – $12
- Wire brush – $4
- Flashlight – $20
You might also want to throw in some power tools in the mix. Check out our tool section in the Gallery to see more!
Furthermore, it depends on what industry or field you’re in. These tools are geared toward mechanical and electrical work. If you like to work with wood, only a handful of tools from this list apply. In either case, you want to make sure you have the right tools for the job. You don’t want to have a work stoppage because you don’t have it.
What did we learn?
- You should eventually get your own set of tools. You don’t want to be known as “the borrower.”
- Tailor your tool choice to what industry you’re in.