We put together a new 19-category Maker’s Tools Buying Guide, which covers all the types of tools one would typically use for robotics, electronics, and hobbyist types of projects.
The list includes 60 tools of all kinds, from hand tools such as precision screwdrivers and flush-cutting shears, to soldering irons and multimeters.
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While a lot of the recommended tools are well suited for field use, some are going to be more limited to workshop use, such as the Hakko soldering station, Akro Mils parts cabinet, and PanaVise vises.
Each category, with the exception of screwdriver recommendations, are limited to just 3 options. Our plan is to eventually expand each category into more detailed buying guides with additional recommendations, reference information, and tips on what features to look for.
With the exception of the Fluke multimeter and Weller soldering station, all of the tools on the list are ones we own, tested, or have used in the past.
What do you think? Are there any tools or categories you would add to the list?
Check it out: ToolGuyd’s Maker Tools Buying Guide
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Jerry
Great idea sorting recommended tools by type, and putting links for them all on one easy to navigate page!
fred
Seems like a well thought out and varied selection. Although I’m not into working on electronics or making things like robots – I think I would still find some of the items very useful. Over the years I’ve found that the Engineer Brand (Japan) screw pliers are very useful – as are their big brother Utica Gas Pliers. As I also do a fair amount of hand and power carving – I’ve invested in quite a bit of Foredom tooling – 2 motors – several hand pieces etc. I find that you can sometimes get good prices by shopping around – and that Amazon is often pretty pricey on these tools. If folks are interested – they might want to check out other sources like RotaryPro, MHC Crafters, Treeline, Traditional Woodworker etc. Some of these folks offer good deals (e.g. 10 to 30% off plus free shipping) from time to time and notify you if you sign up for their email.
Stuart
Otto Frei is another good source for Foredom tools and accessories. I’ve seen some good prices on Foredom tool kits and bits on Amazon in the past, so they’re usually the first – but not last – place I check.
fred
Ottto Frei caters more to jewelers who use Foredoms and does not stock a lot of the wood carving items. Not sure about their prices – but I’d also check them and Amazon if I were in the market for a Foredom purchase. Foredom also sells a number of bundles – kits that might be a good deal if you are just starting out – but they sell lots of options on handpieces and motors if you want to assemble your own. Their reversible SR series motor is my go to machine – but I also bought a “more powerful” TX motor/shaft and often hang both with separate handpieces. If I had to do it over – I’d probably buy 2 SR’s which have plenty of power for what I do.
fred
Mountain Heritage Crafters is offering a $10 off $50 or more thru January 10th with promo code JAN2014. I’m guessing that this might be an OK deal for a small Foredom purchase – but I’d recommend shopping around (sometime RotaryPro or Amazon etc. might be cheaper once you figure in shipping, tax and so on.
Tom
I’d add this to the precision screwdriver list. I’ve had mine for almost 7 years and used it for all of my delicate electronics work. Takes up less space to store than the sets with individual tips and is very well built.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-8-IN-1-Phillips-and-Slotted-Screwdriver-Set-74501/100074336
Tom
And this third hand tool. I forgot to include it in my previous post.
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11784
1000x better than the $5 cheapo ones with the magnifying glass.
Stuart
I picked one up on Cyber Monday but haven’t used it. I’m also working on my own, but the project had been halted for a few months.
For those just starting out, $35 can be hard to swallow.
Chris Pyfer
Good list. I find a locking pair of needlenose pliers are indespensible. They are right on par with the third hand and hemostats for freeing your hands for other tasks.
Greg Post
Great list for makers and electronics hobby. Look for the PanaVise 324 at RadioShack for $19.99 it’s a great deal and in store only. You can use the website to look for local store inventory.
BECKY EVANS
I am so thankful for sites like your that helps us that need to know what we are spending are hard earned cash on is worth the buy…it means the world to me to have a place I can come to to find out about the latest tools and innovations knowing I can trust your reviews…Thanks Man.
jesse
$55 for a Wera Zyklop socket set?
Stuart
Thanks for the catch! That should have read $160-360.
Greg Post
I recommend adding a glue gun to this guide.
Stuart
Thanks for the tip! I’ll consider that for the next revision. Maybe a heat gun as well, since I use mine regularly on heatshrink.
Greg Post
Adding a heat gun would be helpful.