9 Toolbox Essentials That Do the Work for You
Buying the cheapest toolkit you find might feel like a smart move at first. A penny saved and so on, right? Plus the hassle of choosing individual tools? Oof. But the hard truth is that investing a bit more money in high-quality tools and curating your toolbox will make your life easier in the long run. Even if all you do is assemble furniture from Ikea, the difference between the tools that come in the box and the tools listed below could save you hours of sweat and hair-pulling. We’ve made a list of our DIY expert’s toolbox must-haves that’ll save you time and energy so you can make more cool stuff.
(We’re not sponsored by any of the companies below.)
Small tools can make a big difference
Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Mechanical Pencil, 1.3mm
A good mechanical pencil is a toolkit essential. They can write on pretty much any surface lighter than graphite and can be erased, so they’re ideal for marking measurements. This pencil is special because it’s ultra-durable, and the lead is thicker than normal lead, so it won’t break when you’re writing on especially coarse surfaces. The best part? It’s also weatherproof.
Fiskars PowerArc Easy Action Shears (10 Inch)
You need scissors, yeah, but not just any scissors. You don’t want to have to wrestle a zip tie with kitchen scissors and lose. Investing in good scissors is more satisfying than you think. These Fiskars scissors in particular are excellent because its curved blades give you more cutting power, and the handles are comfortable for your hands. Plus, they have a lifetime warranty—even though they’re durable and rust-proof.
WORKPRO Quick-Change Utility Knife
This is a knife. Well, kind of. This box cutter multitool is the best of both worlds between a knife and a razor blade, allowing you to make super-accurate cuts while being highly portable. It’s easy to change the blades thanks to its quick-release mechanism. If you’re looking for a small-but-mighty knife, check out the WORKPRO Quick-Change Utility Knife.
Lufkin Measuring Tape
You might think that all measuring tapes are interchangeable, but there’s a good reason why this Lufkin measuring tape makes the essentials list. You know that thing that happens when you extend tape measure, where it flops down and you have to wrestle it into being straight? This measuring tape doesn’t do that. Plus, the measurements are on both sides of the tape, so you can see it no matter which side of the tape is facing up.
IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Tools GrooveLock Pliers
The appeal of these pliers is simple: you can make incredibly precise adjustments. They have twice the groove positions of other groove joint pliers, so you can grip any size item.
iSpinner Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors
These drywall anchors make it so you can screw heavy items into your wall securely. If you plan to hang heavy paintings, a television, whatever, use these anchors. They leave a slightly larger hole in your wall, but the peace of knowing that your items are hung securely is worth the repairs down the road.
Build your perfect drill set
We’ve come up with 3 drill tools that you can use on any DIY project, from a tricky build to delicate details. When combined, these three are better than any high-price kit you’ll find elsewhere. The socket adapter set and socket set give you the freedom to use any kind of screw you’d like.
DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill Combo Kit
This drill is as tough as nails (or, more accurately, screws) and has a battery that’s, as far as we can tell, immortal.
DeWalt Impact Driver Ready 3-Piece Socket Adapter Set + DURATECH 21-Piece Bit Socket Set, 3/8''
The socket adapter set and socket set give you the freedom to use any kind of screw you’d like.
What about the other standard toolbox fixtures?
If you’re looking for recommendations for a hammer, a flathead screwdriver, a phillip’s head screwdriver, or needlenose pliers, don’t. If a brand is boasting that their hammer is the best, they’re exaggerating. You’ll be a-okay choosing the cheapest option you can find in the hardware store.