Tools That You Should Never Cheap Out On
Being adult means occasionally you’ll have projects that require tools. Whether it’s maintenance around your home, on your car, or full-fledged building projects, having your own set of tools is a necessity. You could walk into just about any big-box retailer and buy an all-in-one toolset, but if you use them with any frequency you may find yourself disappointed with your choice. You need quality tools, including these ten tools that should never be cheap.
Screw Drivers
One of the most often used tools, screwdrivers can be purchased super cheap. Inexpensive screwdrivers may work fine for light duty, but sooner or later you’ll encounter a stuck screw stronger than your tool. Buy heavy-duty screwdrivers in a variety of sizes of both the tip and the handle. Also, insist on buying screwdrivers with magnetized heads. The first time you’re working in a tight space, or with a very small screw, you’ll thank yourself.
Hammer
A hammer is such a simple tool that it would appear any hammer is a good hammer. False. Buy one that is an appropriate weight for you as there are different weights. Ensure the hammer is constructed of material meant to withstand harsh elements, as you’re sure to leave it out in the lawn from time to time. Also, buy a claw hammer with a V-shaped notch to extract nails without damaging the surface.
Measuring Devices
A long tape measure is required for longer things, but when accuracy counts with shorter objects and cuts buy rulers made of metal. Metal rulers are easily readable and won’t wear or warp.
Electric Drill
You might do just fine with a cordless drill as long as you remember to keep batteries charged. However, a drill that plugs into an actual outlet never runs out of power. Being in the middle of putting up a wall mount for your new 60-inch 4K television before the big game is not a good time to run out of battery juice.
Drill Bits
You want a good set of drill bits to go with your drill. Cheap drill bits won’t cut well and will break easy. They may make quick work of light-duty projects, but when the going gets tough, you’ll wish you had a better set. If a large, heavy-duty set is out of your price range, buy a smaller set and add more sizes as your budget allows.
Extension Cord
The one downside of a plug-in electrical drill is the need for an extension cord. There are indoor and outdoor varieties, and you should always pick the outdoor version. They have more insulation and protection against the elements. They’ll also have the third (ground) prong for most electric drills and outdoor outlets. Make sure it has plenty of length for any indoor or outdoor projects.
Wire Cutter/Stripper
For doing electrical or cable work, get a wire cutter/stripper combination. Find a heavy-duty one capable of cutting aluminum, copper brass, iron, and steel when needed as well as a cushioned grip.
Allen Wrench Set
An Allen wrench set isn’t expensive, but a tool that many tool buyers will skip thinking it’s a rarely used tool. But, it’s a favorite of furniture manufacturers including deck furniture. Most assemble yourself furniture will come with the size that fits that product. But most people will quickly lose it or throw it away, regretting that decision a few years later when the furniture needs a good tightening.
Utility Knife
From opening packaging and boxes to trimming carpet fringes and scraping away debris, a utility knife could be your best friend during any project. If you buy a cheap one, it might bend or even break. You’re much better off purchasing a heavy-duty one with easily exchangeable blades.
Tool Box
Having great tools do you no good if you can’t find them. A well-built, large toolbox will not only organize your tools but keep them safe and sound. Toolboxes have a habit of falling off shelves, truck beds, or scaffolding.
These ten tools that should never be cheap certainly isn’t a complete list. But it will put you in the right frame of mind when buying your tools. Home improvement, maintenance, or building projects will go much smoother with a set of good quality tools.
How about you, Clever Friends, do you have quality tools? What would you add to this list?
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Brock is a software engineer by day and personal finance blogger at night. He is a fitness junkie and enjoys grilling and smoking meat. Married with two children, Brock strives to improve his skills as a husband and father, and is always on the lookout to stretch his family’s budget as far as he can.