Men love their tools chest. They love tool boxes, tool belts, axe handles and everything in between. The same can be said for men and tools around the house. While some of these are obvious, such as a hammer or a screwdriver, other tools may not be so readily apparent. Whether you’re building an addition to your home or finishing your basement, there are plenty of tools that will make almost any project a little easier…and safer. As with all things manly, however, the right tool for the job is only half the battle. You also have to have the right tool in the right place at the right time. Consider this list your cheat sheet when it comes to having everything you need at your fingertips!
Tape Measure
No matter what type of project you’re working on, chances are you’ll need a tape measure. While some of the other items on this list are single-use, the tape measure is one tool that should be in your arsenal for almost every single project you tackle.
There are a few features you want to look for when buying a tape measure. First, make sure it’s at least a 25-footer. You don’t want to have to stop in the middle of a project just to start a new one. Second, you want the tape measure to have both inches and metric measurements. While standard in the U.S., metric measurements are becoming more and more common in the construction field. Third, make sure the tape measure is made of a durable material, like a fiber-reinforced polymer or metal. You don’t want it to bend or break when trying to use it.
Beyond just basic measurements, you can use your tape measure as a guide for cutting plywood or drywall. You can also use it to check the depth of holes or the length of boards. In other words, a tape measure is a very versatile tool that is definitely worth having in your toolkit!
Drill and Bits
A corded drill is a must-have for home projects. They’re available in both hammer and impact versions, depending on what you’ll be working on and what will be used to drive screws.
When buying a corded drill, look for a model that has a keyless chuck and two speed settings (slow and fast). Even if you’re only working on small projects, you want a model that’s going to be powerful enough to drive screws into wood or concrete. With a corded drill, you can use a variety of drill bits. Start with a basic set that includes brad point, spade, and Phillips head bits. Beyond just building projects, you can use these bits to make repairs around the house. You can also get an assortment of specialty bits, such as a countersink, plug cutter, or carbide tip. These are great for specific projects or materials.
Corded Leaf Blower
If you’re going to do any type of landscaping project, you’ll need a leaf blower. This can be both a good source of exercise and a great way to let off some steam!
When buying a leaf blower, look for one that has both a high and low setting, as well as an adjustable throttle. First and foremost, you want it to be corded. A cordless blower will run out of charge relatively quickly, whereas a corded model will have the power and efficiency needed to do the job. You might not think of a leaf blower as an essential man tool, but it’s a must-have for the fall season. It’s also great for clearing out the garage or underneath the car or curb.
Corded Drill and Hammer Drill
Beyond just a standard drill, you might consider owning both a hammer drill and a standard drill, especially if you’re working with concrete. The hammer drill is designed to deliver more power and speed when driving into concrete and masonry. The standard drill is more powerful than a screwdriver and is designed for driving screws into wood.
When buying a corded drill and hammer drill, look for a model that has two speeds, a keyless chuck, and a trigger lock. If you’re only going to use it occasionally and with wood, a standard drill is sufficient. If you’ll use it frequently with concrete or masonry, then a hammer drill is a better option. When using either type of drill, you’ll want to make sure you have the right bit to match the material you’re driving into. You also want to make sure you have a good level of control over the trigger. A drill that’s too powerful might “kick” back and cause you to lose control.
Corded Grinder or Rotary Tool
A corded grinder or rotary tool is useful for a variety of projects, such as sanding, grinding, cutting, and more. You can adjust the speed of the grinder, as well as the type of bit you use. Some models even offer variable speed for both grinding and sanding. They also come in both corded and cordless versions.
The type of grinder or rotary tool you buy will depend on what types of projects you’ll be doing. Rotary tools are generally used for smaller projects and offer greater precision, whereas grinders are designed for a wider variety of tasks.
For smaller projects, you might want a smaller, cordless model. If you’re going to be doing larger projects, you might want a corded model. Also, make sure the model you buy allows you to use different types of bits.
Corded Impact Driver
An impact driver is a tool that delivers a lot of power and is often used in construction. It’s great for driving large screws or those that might be in hard-to-reach areas. You can also purchase a model with a hammer function, which is great for driving nails into hard surfaces, such as concrete or masonry.
When buying an impact driver, look for a model that has both a high and low setting, as well as a variable speed control. You also want to make sure it has a powerful but manageable amount of torque. If you can, buy a model that gives you the option of using a battery. This will give you the versatility to use the driver in places where an electrical cord can’t reach.
Corded Jigsaw or Hand Saw
A corded jigsaw is a must-have for woodworking projects, especially those involving intricate cuts. However, it’s not a tool you want to use on a regular basis, as it can be pretty tough on your hands if you’re not used to it!
When buying a corded jigsaw, look for a model that offers a variety of speeds and can cut through a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, and plastic. You also want to make sure it has a better build quality than a cheaper model. This tool can create a lot of sawdust, so choose one that has good airflow.
This may not be the best tool for a beginner. You can also buy a corded hand saw, which is less expensive and easier on the hands. It’s good for smaller projects, and since you can use both hands, it’s easier to control.
Corded Screwdriver and Drill
If you’re working on a project that requires a lot of screws, you may want to purchase both a screwdriver and a drill. A corded drill is great for driving screws into wood, whereas a corded screwdriver is designed for smaller and shorter screws.
When buying a corded drill and screwdriver, look for a model that offers a variety of speeds and a keyless chuck. It should also be lightweight and easy to use. You’ll want the corded screwdriver to have different settings for different types of screws. You also want to make sure both tools have a quality grip and easy-to-read measurements and markings.
If you’re going to be working on projects around the house, then having a few of these tools chest in your arsenal will make things much easier.
