As I mentioned yesterday, we recently moved. Unpacked? Ha!
Most of my tools are sitting tight in large tool boxes, all wrapped together. But before I did that, I made sure to separate the tools I use most often and thought I might need sooner. I knew that it might be days, maybe even weeks before all my tools were properly unpacked.
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I went a little overkill, packing up a small cantilever metal tool box with more tools than most new homeowners, renters, or apartment dwellers have. But my favorite tool selection is already coming in handy.
These aren’t the only tools I use regularly, but they’re the ones I use most often.
We could perhaps call this a “thank goodness I made sure I could find these tools immediately” list.
0. Safety Gear
This should go with saying – make sure you’ve got your PPE and personal safety gear easily accessible. I use my goggles and ear muffs most often, but also have disposable respirator masks and gloves nearby. Somewhere around here I also have a face mask.
1. Hex Keys
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I use these PB Swiss inch hex keys a LOT. More than any other hex keys, drivers, or L-wrenches, at least all of the inch-style ones.
Sure, they were very pricey. Maybe it’s my imagination talking, but they certainly do seem to fit a little better than standard tools.
If you’re putting together or taking apart furniture, such as from Ikea, you’ll want your own full-size hex keys. Maybe not a set from PB Swiss, though, in which case you should consider going with a Bondhus hex key set setup. T-handles also work well for things like knock-down furniture assembly.
Need more hex in your life? Check out these additional options.
2. Tape Measure
Milwaukee’s tape measures are my absolute favorite to use (chime in here about your best tape measure), but I’ve definitely found myself reaching for think Stanley’s FatMax Auto-Lock tape.
Out of all the other tools, I’m sure that tape measures are among the most popular. What do you use more than a tape measure?
A 16-footer works well for most indoor use, and its small size makes it a tad bit easier to carry around. A 25-footer often has more reach, a wider blade, and its not that much bigger.
Bosch’s GLM 15 mini laser distance measuring tool is a great complement and can swiftly handle longer indoors distances too cumbersome for a single person.
3. Knives
Whether a utility knife or folding pocket knife, I’m sure you do as much cutting as I do, if not more. If you’re a pro, I’m sure that you use utility knives or pocket knives far more often than I do.
Sometimes I’ll use a utility knife more, other times a folding pocket knife. This week and next, I’ll be using my utility knife a lot more than any pocket knife.
Most of my pocket knives go back into an EDC gear box when not in active use/rotation, but utility knives are notorious for misplacing themselves.
4. Lineman’s Pliers
I’m going to be honest here – I fudged the truth. I normally use long nose pliers much more often, but if it came down to one or the other, lineman’s pliers see more crucial action.
These pliers, made by NWS for Irwin, are a great choice for all-around gripping and wire cutting tasks.
5. Cordless Drill
I use my drill more than any other power tool, and even more than many of my hand tools. How about you?
Shown here is the new Dewalt DCD791 brushless cordless drill. It might just be my new favorite, beating out my personal Bosch by a long shot.
6. Phillips #2
I’d be in deep trouble if I didn’t have a Phillips #2 screwdriver handy. Slotted screwdrivers have their uses, but Phillips #2 possibly much more so.
I have so many different kinds, and might eventually show you what all the different styles look like, and how I like them.
Other Frequently Used Tools
It was difficult to keep the list short, because there are so many other must-haves:
- Adjustable wrench
- Mini socket set
- 16 oz claw hammer
- LED flashlight (can this count as an everyday essential?)
- Adjustable pliers
I’ve got a list of 12+ essentials for homeowners and DIYers, but wanted to keep this post focused on more frequently used tools.
So what do you use most often? Maybe it’s a reciprocating saw? Pipe wrench? The same types of tools as on my list?
Which are your top most used tools?
Dylan
Man you’re bringing back bad memories of our move lol
Derek
A ratcheting screwdriver might be what I use the most. I find it takes me more time to line up my 18v Dewalt drill to screw in outlets than it does to just use a ratcheting screwdriver.
Also screwdriver bits. Use the hex ones for Ikea type furniture a lot.
schill
My first thought when I saw the heading was Phillips #2. But after reading the post, I realize my most used tool is my knife – a Swiss army knife I always have with me. Because it’s EDC, I don’t really think of it as a “tool” in the same sense as other tools. Just like I don’t think of my EDC flashlight as a tool.
I would have to include other screwdrivers smaller than the #2 (phillips, flat, torx, etc.) to the list as well.
julian
I have had a pair of Kline Linesman pliers for years as well as a pair USA Craftsman ones. I have to say, I cant think of a single time I’ve ever used them. I do a ton of electrical work as part of my remodeling jobs, but find the linesman pliers clutzy and large for any task.
Not much leverage, not much capacity, not much in terms of access….
There are better tools for any task you’d bring them to imo, but maybe I’m missing something?
Mike
As a journeyman electrician, I would rather loose my left hand than my kleins. Linesman pliers are invaluable to an electrician. If you do a ton of electrical work and can’t find a use for them, you’re doing it wrong, lol.
Paul
I second this. 5 years in the trade and I can’t remember a single day I’ve ever not used my linesman. I switched to the knipex linesman around last year though and I can say I’m impressed. Can’t go wrong with that or the klein. Can definitely go wrong with any other brand in my opinion though.
w-bee
my kleins at my side everyday, no compramise.
Bruce
Most of my electrical work is low voltage, 18 gauge stranded. Lineman’s pliers are really out of their element there. 🙂 I see a lot of electricians use them to twist 12-14 gauge wire together. Some call it best practices, some call it an unneeded step. It works, it certainly make getting the wire nut to hold easier. I’d be interested in hearing about other tasks they excel at.
fred
Tools that I’m grabbing most often – probably in this order of most often grabbed:
Tajima VR-103 Safety Utility Knife
Wera 3350 #1 and #2 Phillips Screwdrivers
Stanley 33-725 Tape Measure
Douglas DFI18S14CX Claw Hammer
Wera 3334 Screwdriver
Milwaukee 49-24-0146 Flashlight
Milwaukee 2351-20 Worklight
Milwaukee 2407-20 Cordless Drill
Knipex 86 03 250 Pliers
Proto 270g Diagonal Cutters
Knipex 87 01 150 Pliers
Channellock 3017G Nose Pliers
Milwaukee 2401-20 Cordless screwgun
C.S. Osborne 4-2 Awl
msergiob
Leatherman Surge. Everyday. Anytime.
I have the assorted bits for it.
I own a lot of screwdrivers, pliers, and knifes, but the EDC tool is an impulse, like gunmen touching their waist…sure, is not the optimal solution for every task but it performs well most of the times.
Ps: Good luck in your new home. The to do list never ends. after seven years i keep finding (or making up)things to upgrade .
Mr. Creek
Pick I got from the dentist (stainless steel kind for cleaning teeth). That thing is so darn useful.
Beersmith app (I brew a lot)
Tape measure.
Oscillating multi tool.
dll932
Not necessarily in order:
Multi-tip screwdriver
vise grip
knife/multitool
Dremel
Half round bastard cut file
T-square and/or measuring tape
Claw hammer
Jay
Use so many tools each day at work. Will list the ones that see the most use.
Makita XDT11R impact driver
Makita XPH03Z Hammer drill
Makita DML801X1 flashlight
Makita 5007F circ saw
Milwaukee 48-89-1105 drill bits
Swanson Speed Square
Empire framing square
ThorFire C8s LED flashlight
6 IN 1 Quick-Change Screwdriver
Stanley 16 oz fiberglass claw hammer
Stanley 10-079 utility knife
Stanley 25′ fatmax tape
Klein D213-9NE 9-Inch pliers (Tenite handles)
klein D228-8 8-Inch dykes
LENOX Tools Plastic Pipe Hand Saw, 12-inch
Michigan 4′ step ladder 300 lb rated
A pair of 6″ Crescent wrenches
Channellock 16″
Channellock 12″
UEi DL389 meter
Fluke 1AC-A1-II VoltAlert
Hepdog
Currently in my 12V/automotive tote:
– Knipex 7402200 8″ dykes
– Klein 1006 crimpers
– Dewalt 12v inpact (as screwgun w/#2 philips)
– Petzl tikka rxp headlamp (everyone should have one of these!!)
– Right angle attachment (currently rebranded as Milwaukee 49-22-8510 – Toolguy needs to review this)
– 1/4 socket to 1/4 drive adapter
– 3/8 socket to 1/4 drive adapter
– NWS Ergo combi pliers
– Panduit GS2B ziptie gun
– Fluke 78 III meter
ken
Most used power tool, besides my cordless drill of course, would be my Metabo grinder.
My work is mostly automotive and metal fab.
Tom Woolley
I’ve been retired about 6 months, and use two tools every day.
1) cell phone camera
2) Zippo tape measure http://made-in-usa.blogspot.com/2007/11/zippo-tape-measure.html
Bryan
Spot on with #1. So handy for reference.
Bruce Cohen
Shop rags and paper towels. I’m very messy with glue.
rhyino
I try to keep these on me:
Pocket sized notebook
Sharpie in multiple sizes
Pen
Pencil
Smart phone
Leatherman Super Tool
6″ pocket steel rule
Tweaker- small flat bladed electronics screwdriver
1/4″ ratcheting combination wrench
Most used from my toolbag:
Snap on ratcheting screwdriver
Stanley 12′ Power Lock tape measure; I prefer this smaller tape in confined areas.
Stanley 16’/25′ Fat Max
Festool CXS
Knipex/NWS cutters and pliers
1/4″ ratchet with socket rail.
Bondhus hex keys
3m blue painter’s tape
wire ties
digital camera
rhyino
Flashlight in my pocket and a headlamp from my tool bag.
Evan
Most common for me would be:
Boker “Trapper Style” pocket knife
Ratchet FF80 (Snap-on flex head 3/8 drive) and sockets
Screw Drivers, so many types and brands not going to list
Ridgid 18V max drill and impact
Streamlight LED Flashlights (multiple different ones
Evan
knipex channel locks
Rusty
Surprised that a hammer dint make that list.
My most used tools sit in the driver’s side door pocket of my truck
Leather work gloves
Small roll of duck tape
Long nose Vice grips
Channellocks
Adjustable wrench
6 in 1 screwdriver
Harbor freight tape measure
And a hammer under the seat
fred
A hammer is on my list – fourth from the top.
But if you want to get a laugh – look up the old pejorative: “Birmingham Screwdriver” on Urban Dictionary or Wiktionary
Tom
I would definitely add ear protection to your list. So easy and essential for so many jobs.
I would also add in a good set of hex sockets. If you are putting anything from Ikea together, you will love having a nice set. I got Vim-made ones from Sears and love them.
Yadda
I am putting everything back together in our kitchen after a major remodel. The Phillips #2 is the most used of all the tools. A pair of regular pliers, a pencil, a tape measure, and multitool scissors (Leatherman Style CS) have been my other main companions on this journey. Less used tools. Laser level, ratchet set, drill, painter’s tape (for marking studs and lots of other things) and zip ties round out the batch.
JG
I moved a year ago, I have a simple answer to this: I just connect my 6 Tstak boxes together and it’s the first thing that goes with me, containing all the essential tools. The word “essential” is debatable but hey, I can take it all so I do!
Wayne Ruffner
I’ve got a similar thing: A 70# Pelican case with tools, equipment, parts, etc. I fly with it, that’s the “truck” I use.
You know how some guys go out to the truck for a screwdriver and a few minutes later they’re back out there getting something else, and a few minutes after that…
This full box, like your stack, prevents me from being that kind of goof. Though sometimes my back resents pulling it out of the trunk of the Avis car.
Rob
Combination Pliers
12v Drill/Driver
Combination Square
Rubber Hammer
Olfa Style Box Cutter
Roger
My teeth.
Just kidding. Mostly.
Jerry
Leatherman, slip joint pliers, hammer. I use my impact driver more than drill.
Wayne Ruffner
The one tool I find in my hand more than others is a Klein 5-in-1 screwdriver, and of that the #2 Phillips is front & center. I have four of them, each in different kits except the one in the kitchen drawer (which is kind of a kit, I guess).
But maybe one of a zillion small LED flashlights would be a contender.
After those two, things devolve into many tools, many tasks. Lots & lots of favorites depending on what I’m doing…
Bryan
I find I can most things done with the following.
Festool CXS
Leatherman (Charge TTi)
Tape Measure – 16ft Milwaukee
Dewalt 20V Cordless Shop Vac
Knipex Pliers Wrench
Joe
So Stuart, why are you liking this new Dewalt drill more than your Bosch? What features do you like more or wish your Bosch had?
Tom
I would add impact driver to your list. I didn’t have one for a long time but wonder how I ever lived without it. Great for hanging shelving or really anything that you are going to try to mount into a stud.
James
Ridgid palm router/laminate trimmer. At least that is the tool I use most as it relates to my expectation at the time of purchase. Plenty of power for most of the things you’ll actually ever find yourself doing, and useful in more ways than you’d ever have thought. incredibly well built, especially considering the $99 price tag.
Tyler
My list would be mostly the same. I’d sub in a multi-bit screwdriver for the #2, but I’m not a pro, just homeowner/dyi. So having two Phillips and flats in one tool is nice.
Scott K
Knife, pliers, tape measure, screwdriver, and ppe are definitely at the top of my list as well. Although I’d sub out the dedicated Philips for a multibit and the linesman for needlenose. I would also add a level and hammer (moved about 6 months ago and the hanging of stuff has been never ending). You mention PB Swiss and Bondus hex keys pretty often which I think about when my Stanley sets don’t fit as smoothly as i’d like, but I don’t think I reach for them nearly enough to justify a upgrade.
MikeHammer
Of course my knife is always in my pocket, but here’s one I use everyday that many may not think of; my Starrett 4″ double square. Here’s one from way out in left field; Blaklader work pants…love ’em! A six-in-one. You’ve seen the painters carry them and to this day I don’t understand why every carpenter doesn’t have one on them. I call it my million in one.
garrett
These lists look great–the only thing I don’t see here that I use often is a 1 1/2 in flexible putty knife. I keep 3 at any time – 1 on the rack in the shop, 1 in the car tool bag and 1 in the office. I use them to do small drywall repair, remove gasket material, act as a small electronics spudger/repair tool, glue removal scraper, you name it. I use them almost as much as my screwdrivers–they’re indispensible.
Al
M18 Fuel grinder with 40 grit flappers, diamond head wheels and segmented/turbo rim diamond cut wheels.
M18 Fuel 1/2″ hammer drill with a jiffy type paddle for epoxy mixing when on site power is an issue.
I’d have to say my best friend is my Milwaukee Fastback knife though.
Al
Also love my M18 impact for building things around the house.
Tomonthebeach
I actually started noting tool use frequency a few years ago out of curiosity. I am a researcher by trade. Here is a list of the 10 tools used the most that year in order of frequency of use:
1) Box cutter/drywall knife, 2) big 14″ screw driver (usually for everything but tightening screws, 3) tape measure, 4) Milwaukee M12 screwdriver w/ phillips bit, 5) single-edge razor scraper, 6), 6″ torpedo level, 7) masking tape, 8) 10″ channel lock pliers, 9) Dremel, and 10) Fein Multimaster .
Ken
In addition to all of the above:
Cats paw tool (http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=32014&cat=1,43456,43399 – Much better than a standard “Wonder Bar”. The flat tip is thin enough to remove wood trim, pry open stuck windows, etc. without damage)
Robertson (Square tip) screwdrivers: #1, #2, #3 ( Essential for Canucks)
Small set of twist drills 1/16-3/8″
Small set of masonry bits
Reciprocating saw with assorted blades
Junior hacksaw
Headlamp rather than flashlight
12″ sliding combo square
Duct tape
WD-40
Hank
6-way screw driver
Channel-lock style pliers
cresent style wrench
hammer
long nosed pliers
heavy flat screw driver
allen wrenches
tape measure
knife
dikes
aviation snips
This will handle most issues as they arise.
But you cn fix almost anything if you add a set of sockets and a set of small drivers.