It can be quite difficult with such a huge option of hand tools available, to be able to drill it down to the basics that every home owner should have. Here at SJ Tools, we have put together a list of popular questions and hand tools that should take pride of place in anyone’s tool box.
What is a hand tool?
To start, it is necessary discuss what a hand tool is and how it is different from other members of the tool family.
In pretty simple terms, a hand tool is a tool that is used and powered strictly by the hands and no other source. Unlike power tools, hand tools can be taken anywhere and don’t rely on any external power to make them work. This makes them perfect for quick jobs around the home.
Does the quality of the hand tool make jobs easier?
The short answer to this is yes. The quality of a tool does make a job much easier to complete, however you should always take into account the number of times an item is likely to be used when looking at price. Many home owners don’t necessarily want to spend over £50 for a screwdriver set of they are only ever going to use one type.
What are the basic hand tools I should own?
Claw Hammer
Claw Hammer 20oz One-Piece Steel Shaft
Light weight yet strong, a claw hammer allows you to remove and tap in nails to furniture and walls. Ideal for putting up those pictures.
Caulking Gun
Caulking Gun Skeleton Type Manual 260mm
As a new home owner, you will definitely come across seals in the kitchen, bathroom or pretty much anywhere in the home that need to be re-caulked. Having a caulking gun on hand allows you to simply attach the caulk and fix up that sealant swiftly.
Safety Glasses
Safety Spectacles - Clear Lens
No matter what you are fixing or making around the home, safety should always come first. Protect your eyes with safety glasses during all tasks.
Adjustable Wrench
Adjustable Wrench with Extra-Wide Jaw Capacity 200mm
An adjustable wrench can be a life saver. Make sure you purchase an adjustable wrench with a wide jaw capacity to help you tighten and loosen pipes and bolts as needed.
Spirit level
How are you going to hang that shelf or picture if you can’t tell if it’s level? A spirit level is definitely an essential hand tool for the home. Make sure you invest in a spirit level with both vertical and horizontal vials for the best accuracy.
Hacksaw
Whether you need to trim a shelf or saw up old furniture, every tool box needs a hack saw. The blades can also be easily changed when it starts to loose its sharpness.
Needle Nose Pliers
Needle Nose Pliers 280mm Offset Ni-Fe Finish
Needle nose pilers are a great tool to have on hand. For small jobs, the pilers can reach areas that larger pilers don’t.
Tape Measure
Whether you are making piece of furniture or want to measure a space to see if it will fit that new TV, every home needs a tape measure.
Hex Keys Set
Tool Tray with Hex/Ball-End Hex Keys & Socket Bit Set 29pc
Always stuck looking for the right key to fit your new flat-paced furniture? Then a Hex Key set is just what you need.
Multi-bit screwdriver
Screwdriver & Bit Set 21pc ProMAX®
One screwdriver that will fit all screws. A multi-bit screwdriver is definitely a time saving way to repair something quickly. No need for a huge set, just swap the ends out.
Pocket Knife
Pocket Knife Locking Twin-Blade
A knife that can do so many things. Featuring both utility and fine edge blades a pocket knife can be easily stored in a safe way and is robust. An essential for pretty much any job that requires cutting.
We hope that this list has provided you with helpful information so you can start building your tool box with the basics. We also offer ready prepared tool kits that include some great hand tools all in one place. Take a look on our website for more information.
