(20) Must Have Tools You Don't Know You Need

[@ericpetz5831]

Those magnetic dishes, and magnetic pickup tools are a must have in any shop, preferably in a couple different sizes.

[@gregprince2523]

Pop's is 88 and He and his Dad told me years ago not only buy the tool you need but buy the tool you can pass on to the next generation..... as I get closer to my next adventure I look at my garage, basement and have started gifting alotta those items and smiling for that great advice 40 years ago

[@allaboutperspective650]

more than 40 years ago my grandfather passed, I and my brothers still have and use some of his tools, some of which are from late 1800.

[@digdrivediy]

That is a great means of maintaining tradition. I have some of my grandfather's tools as well. Great concept. Thanks.

[@maxscriptguru]

I got a LOT of my dads old tools.

[@aubreyleonae4108]

Pop is very wise. I do that for that reason.

[@drumtuna270]

A label maker is hands down a must have for the shop.

[@digdrivediy]

Absolutely!

[@jacobsimerman5281]

​@Neil Koch: Dig-Drive-DIY did you get hit hard by that tornado?

[@digdrivediy]

@@jacobsimerman5281 Missed us by a half mile. We're all good.

[@WhiteVaille]

Alternatively, a roll of your favorite masking or gaffer tape. I really like 3M's green automotive masking tape, both because it's close to my favorite shade of green, but also is easy to work with and doesn't leave residue. Tape plus a contrasting Sharpie, and some patience writing cleanly and legibly, can cover a lot of drawers and boxes while adding a slightly more personal touch, if that matters to you. Granted, for wire labels, a nice label printer is definitely fantastic to have on hand. Some can print directly on heat shrink, but otherwise a roll-on label or flag label can be fine, too. (And try to cover them with clear heat shrink after, to protect the text so it doesn't rub or get wiped off by solvents.)

[@ModelLights]

@@WhiteVaille 'a roll of your favorite masking or gaffer tape' This, but a roll of white duct tape instead. You will find many uses for white duct tape, because you can use it on many things that are visible without making it look trashy like it would with silver duct tape. Black and red duct tape are also excellent to have on hand, to match other color items. But the white plus a Sharpie makes excellent labels, I label all of my containers with it. And you'll be done labeling everything you want to label before most people would have gotten a label maker out and made the first label.

[@AprilRaine60]

Surgical hemostats come in handy when holding tiny things with hands too big to grasp it. I'm an artist and I use these in everything too small to hold.

[@briancarpenter8297]

The "tool" that has most improved my workshop is a full size toolbox. I'm not saying a giant behemoth, but a freestanding toolbox on casters was the best upgrade for my shop. Digging through small toolboxes and tool bags to find what you need is a real drag on productivity and motivation. I didn't want to give up the floor space in my 2 car garage, but it is well worth it for most of my tools to have a specific place. I'm envious of how much drawer space you have, but I don't yet have a large enough shop for more toolboxes. Also, labeling the drawers is great. I can tell a family member or friend exactly where to grab a tool if I'm working under a vehicle.

[@digdrivediy]

So very true. A toolbox is the central hub for a high functioning workshop. I'm thinking of doing another one of these types of videos with some organizational tips and the labeling is key too. Thanks for the ideas and as always, thanks for your comments Brian.

[@CGT80]

My garage is only 1.5 cars but I have 3 tool carts. My large stainless kobalt is probably 15 years old or more and while rebuilding my garage, I inherited another that is the same after my grandfather passed and I kept his 1970's craftsman cart and cleaned up the slides so it would work again. I couldn't pass up his boxes for sentimental reasons and having so many drawers really helps when you have a lot of tools in a small area.

[@robertpao2931]

Proud to say Have everything on the list. Would add an extendable magnet wand or claw picker upper thing.

[@digdrivediy]

Good call!

[@wrstew1272]

Flush cut electrical pliers. Former aircraft/helicopter mechanic, who screams at people who don’t flush trim zip ties. I have scars from said experience. Inexpensive ones for exclusive use for ties, or splurge on getting great ones for spring steel. Well worth the small bucks.

[@BG-vq9fd]

BTW that construction yellow and gray looks good. I use 5 gallon buckets. Dad's been gone 22 years but I still have plenty of ice cream buckets and emery cloth. He also left me plenty of mechanics wire. I use flush cut wire cutters for the zip ties. I thought those tools were to pull them tight. I was wanting one of the little devices to jump start vehicles. I found out many of them do not work if voltage is too low. So I found 1 that shows voltage and you can use an over ride to work at low voltage. I've been cut many times by ends sticking out of gear type hose clamps. I think it's my newest JD that has covers on them.

[@justinnovak1275]

Ammo boxes. I have multiple 50 cal boxes that have everything I need for a specific type of projects like electrical work. I just grab the box do what I need to do and when finished everything goes back in its box and I use my silver sharpie to write what the box is for on the outside so my shop is organized and easy to clean up which is the worst part of any project.

[@ericpetz5831]

A good set of drill bits preferably cobalt, as well as a set of left handed drill bits. A spring loaded center punch, easy outs and at least a basic tap and die set. Another nice thing to have is a pick set, I have several including those that look like dental picks, and forceps, the latter two I got at the local sporting goods store. And a couple good pairs of tweezers for splinters etc.

[@oby-1607]

Absolutely correct on the analog battery charger. They actually work when the digital ones don't. A compressor is invaluable to me because it inflates my tires and helps power the tire machine. It also runs the impact wrench and hi speed grinder. Couldn't live without it.

[@garny3766]

Yup. Everything you showed is essential. Few tweaks/additions… 1. Table vise 2. Single hole countersinks. Much smoother and better results 3. Floor jack 4. Come along/ratchet straps 5. Cordless tools and arguably the most important cordless tool…flashlight

[@Dave-ei7kk]

Good list. I too have collected many tools in my 70 years and I’m proud to say I have everything g on your list except the straight blade multi-cutter. But I do have two similar cutters for round tubing like fuel hoses and a special one for cutting PEX-A pipe. So we’re at least 95% in sync!

[@littlejason99]

Good list, I agree with everything you mentioned. Another invaluable tool in my garage is my bench vise. I'm talking about a goold old AMERICAN bench vise, not the cheap chinese ones in the stores. Most of the stuff I've acquired over the years for my garage has been from going to estate sales. They just don't make stuff like they used to.

[@allaboutperspective650]

The best vice in my opinion is a bench vice that you can turn on the bottom plate. I agree with your comment about the cheap Chinese stuff, it's just a waste of money. The more a tool is used the better the quality should be.

[@digdrivediy]

I love tool shopping at garage sales and auctions!

[@digdrivediy]

That's a great idea for a video actually. Chinese vs American. I think there's a place for some Chinese tools that are less frequently used but yeah, a good topic for sure. All my hand tools are American made.

[@roysoliz3610]

And will probably continue to be in estates sells when you pass. Those are forever tools and will be loved by the next owner as well ❤️

[@maytham236]

“Knowledge is power” thanks for sharing your life experiences.

[@noidnomis]

Great list! A few that I have collected over the years are a bearing seal puller, 12 volt battery maintainer, angle finder, snap ring pliers, a good set of brake tool wrenches and pliers, a good quality soldering iron (not a gun), a 250ftlb+ 1/2" drive torque wrench. Last but not least are a quality condition pair of mechanix work gloves as it will get a user all the possible protection, as much as possible cleanliness, but without all the sweaty wet hands as with the rubber gloves, which are great from the greasy oily jobs, but the cloth ones work great for the everyday stuff.

[@shop_tool_talks]

I also have a battery maintainer, also doubles as a trickle charger. Great as a portable option for charging batteries

[@bobc.5324]

Your list is spot on. Definitely the old battery charger. I bought the one I have in the late sixties, it still does the job, six volt 12 volt slow or quick charge and a "boost" switch you hold to start charging a completely dead battery. I have heard from others of their dis-satisfaction with the "New and Improved" solid state chargers. Everything else on yor list I have had for years, bought a box of 100 single edges razor blades years ago, still have many left. When i finish with them I wrap them using blue painters tape.

[@jaybrown7177]

Great list. I would add a good multimeter for AC or DC electric work. Checking for continuity or blown fuses is an ease with a decent one. Thanks.

[@Iam_jardow]

Absolutely. Even $50 Klein meters do wonders

[@joemuncie9187]

At the end Greg showed what I found invaluable while working in my friend's shop; a pocket knife. From opening boxes to padded envelopes, I use mine every day.

[@iowafox2206]

One of my favorite tools is the 3/8dr handled extension. That way you can use a ratchet to break a bolt loose and then spin it off like a spinner handle. That's one of my favorites Also a added one are the old stainless kitchen ware mixing bowls your wife doesn't want anymore snag them and they make great little parts cleaning bowls!

[@digdrivediy]

Agreed! I have a couple of those stainless bowls.

[@iowafox2206]

@@digdrivediy they are invaluable stick a little gasoline in and it's the best mobile parts cleaner I've found. Plus clean up is easy! Keep up the great work I can't wait to see how the 318 turns out!

[@drsnooz8112]

A top notch list! I use nearly every item. I find the silver Sharpie fails when trying to mark black electric cords, hoses, roof felt, glass, plastic, etc. I got some paint markers from that big box store that ran all the local stores out of business and those have earned a place in my tool bag along with all the other essentials I carry. I'd also say a centering punch is essential. Somebody farther down mentioned a single-hole countersink, but for woodwork, I'd recommend a KEO countersink instead. The fluted countersinks create hexagonal holes, which isn't great. The KEO cuts a very nice, round hole. I couldn't do without mine.

[@Garth2011]

Don't forget the BIG garage is handy to have too.

[@rumleyrum5839]

Great list. Wish I had know about some of these ideas 50 years ago when I first started working on things on my own. Thanks.

[@bluegrallis]

I don't have a lot of different wire wheels, but I have had one on my bench grinder for at least the last 30 years. Ice cream buckets work great for a lot of things, specially for picking blackberries. I would add a magnetic dish to your list. I need a few more of them in my shop it seems.

[@digdrivediy]

We gave away magnet dishes as a client appreciation gift at the farm show one year. Big hit!

[@37sarcastic]

I use old speaker magnets they will hold a lot more than the dishes

[@gregorymacneil2836]

Great list - For blade disposal get a “sharps” container from your industrial supplier (Grainger) or your pharmacy. They hang on the wall. My favourite bucket is a “Little Giant” 8 qt. Flat-Back Plastic Bucket - it is the right size - hangs on the wall nicely and has a strong 1/4” steel handle that will not bend. Analog Battery Charger is a must - you don’t need a big one - it only has to bring the battery up to a few volts so the smart digital will work. Best thing about having a dumb analog charger is that you can use it for rust removal!

[@shakerheights6719]

Excellent list! Sawhorses are indeed handy, but I would add a Black and Decker Workmate as a must-have item, especially for smaller projects where clamping is required. An older model Workmate refurbished with replacement work surface panels is a great choice. Like others, I would welcome more content of this kind, covering both metal fabrication and woodworking.

[@unwired1281]

Deburr and wipe chips away with your bare fingers. Ok then.

[@MrK-vw6zg]

Hi Neil. Nice of you to "WET" our appetite for the finish of your "dream" with the construction yellow dash.

[@jamesgreen7296]

Great list. I have had neighbors with smart chargers and had the same problem. I roll my old craftsman charger over I purchased 20+ years ago and get them running.

[@randykrochak1185]

My have to have, A round magnet on a stick! Small enough to get into places, big enough to pickup bolts, drill shavings.

[@digdrivediy]

I love magnets.

[@alittleofthisandalittleofthat]

A work table. 3/4” ply with 2x4 around the edge to strengthen 3’X 7’, and with foldable legs. I just replaced the 34 year old foldable legs with new ones! I have build many of remote control planes on it pre kids 😂, and repaired a rotor tiller and many other things as well as cut lumber, you name it it’s wonderful. No bending over standing on my head or down on on one knee for me. 👍

[@allaboutperspective650]

Great list, most items I have too. As for number 6, Emery cloth, now that is something I have a lot of at least 50 yards, I use a it lot. Most likely you wonder what I use it for, I will show you what I use it for some time at the end of the summer.

[@digdrivediy]

Now I'm intrigued 😜

[@Tool-Meister]

Being nearly double your age, I have every thing on your list, including the, analog charger. Small parts trays come to mind for the average DIYer. I also press egg cartons into parts sorting service. The one hand tool I highly recommend are duck-bill pliers. You won’t know you needed them until you’ve had them available on a daily basis. Lastly, a smallish electrical auto-ranging multimeter is a must-have for every DIYer. I say dito, regarding the suggested label-maker.

[@martysoutdooradventures2946]

Definitely a good set of easy out sockets and easy out for screw set! I have a easy out screw set from my grandfather from the 50s and it's very high quality and has never broke. And I paid probably 50 bucks for my easy out sockets but it's paid for themselves many times. Also being in the trade of house renovation, I carry 2 very overlooked things with me at all times. Wd40, and dawn dish soap!!!!

[@digdrivediy]

Great addition

[@samwittstruck.6685]

Work bench and vice.

[@danpahnke5477]

Great List! This may be more of an EDC item but I always carry a small fixed blade horizontal carry knife 24/7. This is always super handy, not sure I could live without it. Awesome videos Neil! Looking forward to your next ones!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Dan. I like the EDC stuff too.

[@TheMrholt]

Love watching i grew up in sheffield iowa i live in Brantford Ontario now

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks!

[@backyardproblemsolver]

Great video! For old razor blades, I keep an old Gatorade bottle with a slit cut in the lid. Drop them in, then once it’s full just put a new cap on it and throw the whole thing out. As far as tools I’d add, a really sturdy long pry bar is invaluable. It’s one of those tools that once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

[@JerodMatlock]

Wow, you read my mind on every one of those. I even have the large collection of plastic bags and the silver sharpie. I will add to the list: plastic standard razor blades, tongue depressors and popsicle sticks, 6" wooden q-tips, PC in the shop for manuals and ordering parts, earplug dispenser, industrial hot melt, schaller bins, carpeted wooden apple box set, CA Glue and Activator, Wiss 8-1/2" industrial shears, cafeteria trays, Zoom caulk sealer saver. On the razor blades, I use a medical sharps container.

[@adambatchelder4121]

Great list , ive got almost all of those tools. So modern battery chargers are actually only battery maintainers. They need to see some voltage usually 5 or 6 volts to kick on. You can fool them into charging a completely dead battery by adding in a good battery for a few seconds so the charger sees the voltage and kicks on.

[@henryskinner1092]

Sir, please keep giving us these videos. They are informative and enlightening, with humor. You gotta love them. Stay Safe, God Bless.

[@Engelscoachshopp]

TEXT💬me with the handle☝️ above on tele’gram to receive reward🎁,thanks for watching❤️

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Henry

[@dc85337]

YES - There is one vital tool that you will use almost constantly (ok only 5 times a week if you do any kind of mechanical work) That is a Knipex 87 01 125 (the smaller one is just too small - the bigger ones hard to keep handy) I made a leather holder for mine and put it on my belt and it is constantly handy. Holds a nut - hot metal, twist metal/wire, clamp etc. Similar pliers may work for you but the size and gripping power are the essential parts.

[@minutemanmac]

For used blades I have a Fluff jar/tub (a staple in New England homes) with a slot cut in the lid. Drop the spent blades through the slot and when the jar/tub is full, just put some tape on the slot and toss the whole thing

[@AmericasTeamAdventure]

Spot on with the battery charger. I kept an old one for years because it will charge many batteries the new one won't. The zip tie cutter will have to end up in my Amazon kart.

[@corksoaked6143]

I like your idea for disposing of razor and utility blades! I've always just wrapped in duct tape, but I really like the extra protection provided by the cardboard tp roll. I'm making the switch!

[@Farm_fab]

Neil, one can make a portable battery charger with an old pressure washer engine and frame, and an alternator, along with jumper cables. This is important for use on a farm where the tractor battery goes down in the field, maybe overnight, and you can't get an extension cord that long, and you can't get the truck in that row in the field.

[@thedelcodave]

Great List of Tools. I really have come to like the Step Drill bits. They work great on thin and thick material and best part they double as a countersink. This list could be a 100 items long lol.

[@Lee-At-Green-Pheonix-Rc]

I keep meaning to get one for my Rc hobby I for ever snapping small m2 and m2.5 bits

[@johnwoody4905]

i agree step drill bits are great. tip take marker and mark the size hole you want it's easy to go to big. yes there are at lease a 100 items you need.

[@digdrivediy]

Love my step drills too! Thanks Dave!

[@TBJK07Jeep]

You should try the Vortex bits by Norseman. They are a little pricy but good.

[@kajem575]

Never liked them. Never was I satisfied with performance on what I used them for. I do have a quality drill bit sharpening machine though.

[@tylerdaavettila5148]

Neil, Make this video on a regular basis, it will always be interesting. Maybe quarterly for different seasons.

[@digdrivediy]

Appreciate that Tyler. I'd like to do that.

[@tomsmith3045]

This is a great list! I picked up a couple of ideas here, thank you. Some that I would add: 1) wooden shims. They're cheap, and handy if you have to fasten things together that aren't quite in alignment. 2) loctite 577 sealant. This is the stuff that makes threaded pipe joints not leak, even if the imported threads are poorly made, or aren't even tapered. 3) an angle grinder with a flap wheel. If you do metal work, you really need a dedicated grinder with one of these. 4) an assortment of machine screws and nuts and bolts. For me, 6-32 up to maybe 5/8", stainless to 1/4", then grade 3 plated for the larger one. Saves a lot of time in trips tot he hardware store.

[@BellaRocko]

These are great! You could have easily made this video in my garage, as I keep every single one of these. I love to re-purpose or salvage things that would normally be thrown away. Whenever I get new car parts or tools and they come in nice plastic bags, I keep them for future re-use. I have a drawer full of different sized plastic bags that come in handy all the time. The same with wood blocks, and everything else on your list. I agree 100% with everything on your list. Thanks for sharing!

[@timkrouse345]

Kobalt self-adjusting pliers-wrench. INSTANT, one handed adjustable wrench. Best tool ever.

[@PapaRug.58]

I still like my old battery charger best and it works when it's cold outside 😊😊

[@duramaxmak]

Cheap three jaw puller set, slide hammer, nice set of brass hammers I like my snapp on one, induction tool heater, a good parts washer, sand blast cabinet, Hydraulic shop press

[@k52402]

File to refresh the edge on shovels and hoes. Multimeter and a basic collection of electrician tools. Drill bits and saw blades. Pruning shears. N95 masks for dust. Work gloves. Steel-shank boots for digging. Ear muffs. Safety glasses.

[@marshallboice6871]

The best way to get rid of used razor blades is a sharps container, you can get them for pretty cheap from any pharmacy section, they’re well labeled, they’re thick plastic, and they seal up when they’re full

[@oldfreddyfrenchfry1]

Great video! Noco battery jump starters are fantastic for that reason - you can override its reverse polarity safety feature for it to still jumpstart a totally dead battery it can’t sense. They also have emergency lights and USB charging - a fantastic multi-use car emergency kit item.

[@davidharris8171]

a pair of vampire pliers should be on the list. Once you own a set you will always find a use for it. Another tool that doesn't quite fit the list but is handy everywhere is a good laser level. There are always things that need hanging or leveling to get a job done right.

[@spencermcginty9812]

All of those items are very helpful and I use all of those frequently. On my latest project I used a few things that others may find helpful. 1.) silver streak welders mechanical pencil 2.) spring loaded center punch 3.) center drill bit 4.) magnetic parts tray 5.) hook and pick set 6.) dead blow hammer 7.) brass hammer 8.) stubby flex head ratchet 9.) magnetic rechargeable work light 10.) needle scaler

[@HwllMI]

I have #9 and unfortunately it doesn't work on the newer F-150s. Aluminum will do that. :)

[@spencermcginty9812]

@@HwllMI perhaps a suction cup mount will be better suited😂 good to hear from you!

[@HwllMI]

That's a better option than buying a Chevy!

[@digdrivediy]

Great list additions!

[@sassafrasvalley1939]

Neil… although I do more woodworking than mechanical, I have nearly all of those. You’d be surprised how many of them relate to woodworking. Chamfering countersink bits, Emory Cloth, clamps, tarps, nitrile gloves…. Etc. Here’s a few that I find especially useful in woodworking… Strap clamps come in handy when assembling odd shaped objects. For example octagonal windows for a treehouse. A single strap replaces a wheelbarrow load of clamps or a homemade fixture. Adjustable height stands are great for stabilizing lumber being fed through a planer, jointer or tablesaw. They also support long pieces that hang off the workbench. Wood faced vise jaws. I use a built in woodworkers bench vise now. But, I started out with a pair of screw-on Dogwood faces on my mechanics wise. A Vix bit… or centering punch resolves almost every issue with centering wood screws in hinges and hardware. Anyone that has ever popped the head off of a screw because the countersink in the hinge is eccentric to the one under the head, will attest to the need to have a set of these! A set of inside/outside calipers, dividers and compass. Although a machinist caliper with digital or vernier readout is nice… the old fashioned mechanical drafting/inspection tools are much more useful and practical in woodworking. Layouts, thickness planing, lathe turning, lumber sorting…. Lots and lots of uses! J-Wax is the ultimate surface protector for metal and wood. Anything that slides has less friction when coated. Using oil/grease is a recipe for disaster around sawdust. Silicone overspray or residue transferred to a wooden surface will ensure that the finish will be trashed. Unlike metal… there are a lot of instances where one can’t clean a wooden surface with chemicals… using J-Wax on tool surfaces is the perfect solution. It is also the perfect finish coating on a lot of wooden projects. (Just one problem… Johnson & Johnson discontinued it last year.😢) Flush trimming hand saws have no set in their teeth. You can cut protruding dowels, tenons or overlaps perfectly flush without a mark on the surface. Double sided tape is great! Both temporary and permanent bonds come in handy in innumerable ways. You normally want the tape without the foam between its surfaces. Building plys for gang sanding, holding work for machining, assembling or fixturing is simple with the right 2 side tape. (It is actually better than hot melt glue in a lot of applications.) I could go on & on… but won’t. (A wise man told me that the root word for ‘ad nauseum’ is nauseous!) So, I’ll leave it with just this thought… You can tell a man’s affinity for his craft by looking at the tools he prefers to use. Thanx Neil… I enjoyed your list. PS… I find a cheap Multi-Meter to be one of the best investments that I’ve ever made. I can barely change a battery or replace a light bulb without whipping mine out to check!

[@digdrivediy]

Love it Dave! Some perfect additions to the list. You had many of the same items on your list as my FIL, who is also an avid wood worker. I feel like I could do several different themes versions of this list. I went with "random" but it was still difficult to decide what should make the cut. It is a fun exercise though to look through your toolbox and make some discoveries of items long forgotten (top drawer of my big box). I remember that you recommended the J-wax for the tip of the Axis wood splitter. I had forgotten what it was. As I was your comment about all the uses, I mentally told myself "I'm just gonna order it right now" only to read your last sentence saying it's discontinued! Dang. Now I want it worse than before... Thanks for playing along with the fun. It's great to get to read through all the suggestions and it's fun to hear about everyone's favorites. Until next week...

[@sassafrasvalley1939]

@@digdrivediy Don’t despair… Min Wax has a Paste Finishing Wax that is almost as good! 🤓

[@ganprottas6259]

3/26/23 Hi Neil, I believe the best tool in the workshop, perhaps the greatest in the world... Duct Tape. Oh boy, can you tackle the world with this stuff. Last September, I bought a brand new Cen-Tech battery charger from Harbor Freight, for 12 volt lead acid batteries. I paid $45, with a $10 off coupon. It even had a 50 Amp jump start! I thought it was the real deal. I couldn't have been more wrong. The gauge only measures in percent how charged the battery is and when I try jumping the battery to start an engine, the charger clicks and the lights blink. I can't stand that thing, so I definitely agree that a good battery charger and starter is going to be a well-worthy investment. Can't wait for the 318 to be finished! Older GTs are capable of anything. You'll be ready for dinner before they quit working on you. Thanks for sharing! Take care.

[@stvargas69]

As a pro mechanic and one who works on my stuff at home. I have hoists at work but a lot of times I can't use a hoist so I'm working on my knees. After 30 plus years of such torture, a good assortment of kneeling pads cushions & knee pads allow me to be able to standing up & walk away quickly.

[@snoozieq4584]

Love the ice cream buckets. I thought I was the only weirdo that recycled those. I also recycle sour cream and margarine containers too. You can never have enough containers! I recycle ziplock bags too, all sizes. I also recycle the silicone bags. I drop them into boots to dry them out. They also come in different sizes. Love your list, Neil. I can't add to it. Thank you , Neil, for another great video. See you in the next one 🥰🤗😘

[@allaboutperspective650]

Well I live in Europe and we don't have ice cream buckets but containers for different food items I also save and use.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks so much Susan!

[@ronall3104]

Maybe "silica gel"?

[@gliderider7077]

AMEN on the battery charger! I buy any of the old school chargers I find at sales or auctions.

[@HwllMI]

Tinker model Swiss Army knife is in my pocket at all times and used frequently.

[@digdrivediy]

Of course. That is an essential!

[@texasproud3332]

Good video crazy enough I have those things except the grey sharpie but after 50 years as a electrician I got most tools

[@DavidShort-ov5vb]

5:29 Something I learned from working on aircraft, routing wire bundles, was using diagonal pliers, taking the flat end, butt it up against the edge of the zip tie as close as you can, and cutting the excess tail off. You can also lightly grab the tail close to the head with diagonal pliers and lightly twist to draw up the zip tie, then cut off the excess tail. You are less likely to cut yourself with the edge of the zip tie that was cut off.

[@dannydunnagan3267]

I have the same charger we had when we were farming in the 70ed and 80 and it still works great. I have a lot of crazy tools over the years. Never throw anything away.

[@kevinallen8072]

Great list and video. Yes many off the wall tools. Like Tractor time with Tim. I carry a pair of pliers every day. Use them all the time. As arthritis has lessened my gripping power. God Bless keep safe

[@digdrivediy]

Love the every day carry style of video too.

[@codythielen6543]

Younger "old school" parts guy here!(my customers couldn't believe Id go to the paper catalog so fast) I've sold tons of batteries and brought many back to life. The newer "smart chargers" are just that. If voltage or amperage is too low, they don't "think", a battery is hooked up. If you add a set of jumper cables to another, "good" battery, it'll charge right up. Give it a try and tell me I'm wrong.

[@HwllMI]

The first time I saw a friend using one of those LED headlamps I thought it was goofy and unnecessary. I eventually discovered that they are great because they allow you to use both hands when working in low light/dark situations like under the hood, or just plain under a vehicle, unlit attics, etc. And you can aim them better than the old Mini-Maglite in the mouth system.

[@digdrivediy]

I often paint with one of those too. Kara wore one when repainting the upstairs as well. That's a good addition to the list.

[@oakrunacres2564]

Great info Neil. I'm always looking for new tools to buy but never think I need them. There was a few things on your list that I either didn't know existed or that I never thought about and I can definitely use them. Thanks for putting together another informative and fun to watch video! Dave

[@wrstew1272]

If I can list three times I wish that I had them, goes on the list. Sometimes I can find the list!

[@aaronburford5701]

This is an ingenious list of items..... you are becoming my best KZbin channel I tune in, and these are old videos!

[@AnyFishWillDo]

Great video Neil. I have most of the things on your list, but there were 2 or 3 I may need to pick up. Thanks.

[@billbyrd9845]

I understnd that different things are important to different people, but, I believe I know the number one thing that everyone (like us) should have, bar none: an assortment of hardwood wedges!

[@marshallcollins8634]

Your GRANDFATHER and are probably about the same age. If I had a grandson like you I would be proud.👍🏻

[@digdrivediy]

I really appreciate that Marshal. If my Grandfathers were still with us, they'd be in their 100's. My Dad is 72.

[@marshallcollins8634]

I apologize , I misread your comment. I thought it said your grandfather bought it and I just assumed he bought when he was young. All these pills they have me on cloud my brain sometimes ( mostly when I’m up all night, the sleeping pills are a crap shoot) My father in law is in better health (@90) than I am. I am a perfect example of why you should chase BOOKS in school instead of Girls. Back then teachers said to stud because they said so( just like mom) If they would have said (it will help you get girls, I would be a non broken up bookworm now😂💲💲😂😂.just picked up another set of cheap saw horses. Thanks

[@digdrivediy]

@@marshallcollins8634 No need to apologize. Very glad to have you watching and commenting. Love those plastic sawhorses!

[@911greatscott]

I personally like a sharpy for most things but for metal, I like a silver welder's pencil...even if I'm not welding. Thanks for the video. I also use a caliper more often than not as well as brass gauge set for quick, consistent measuring. "Younger" people will never know how good they have it with videos like these! We had to learn the hard way (by experience).

[@digdrivediy]

Great point!

[@paulhoolihan6775]

Hi Neil & Co. I would agree, el- cheapo digital vernier caliper , super handy, cheers from Paul in Denmark

[@andymehl7994]

Great list, Neil. As far as additional things for the list, I don't go anywhere without my small pocket flashlight and my pocketknife. The flashlight I carry is a Streamlight ProTac 2L, but there are many other great lights out there. As for a pocketknife, I have always preferred a stockman style knife, usually with about a 3" main blade. I have carried multiple knives over the years, but my favorite is an Old Timer that I inherited from my grandfather.

[@digdrivediy]

Great additions! I always carry a knife and now my phone is the flashlight. Couldn't be without!

[@KBLIZZ333]

Proud to say I have everything on this list with the exception of that fancy zip tie cutter. I usually use a small pair of angled cutters. I learned very early on smart chargers won't charge dead batteries. Also can't do nickel plating or electrolysis rust removal. Now I have a selection of "dumb" chargers.

[@featheredcoyote5477]

Bernzomatic propane torch🔥 & multiple length breaker bars💪

[@BRadWilson3]

A good USA vise is a must have shop tool in my opinion. Don't be afraid to spend a little money.

[@robertjune1221]

I found about this channel from Wes's channel. Now I'm going to be spending more time watching videos, and spending more money. I use a lot of cable ties, so the zip tie cutter was bought before the video even finished. I'm looking forward to going through your library of videos.

[@BySixa]

Thank you sir. This is the first one of these I've seen in my recommended which has provided any value to me. Great recommendations and far better than tbe normal

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks a lot Mark. I'm glad you checked it out.

[@homealone5087]

I've got by many years without flush cutters for zip ties. Use my regular side cutters and then trim the stabby piece with my utility knife. It's an extra step that I probably won't have to do anymore because I finally got some flush cutters.

[@orzot]

Great list, just add a good battery operated work light and a good headlamp.

[@digdrivediy]

Those are great too!

[@jondahl3173]

I have used emery cloth a lot cleaning fwd hubs while doing bearings, rear axle shafts also. Remember the scotch Brite pads to polish afterwards! Going to get myself one of those silver sharpie, probably 2. Thanks. A real vise on a bench grinder stand with 1 wire wheel is needed for a lot of work, cleaning bolts comes to mind. 👍 The smart charger is needed for the gell cell batteries. It was the only one that would resuscitate my dead red top battery.

[@ErictheAmateur]

I’m partial to the square planters peanut jars. The mouth is big enough to get your hand in. Plus the screw on lid doesn’t spill. They’re perfect for organizing screws, nails and bolts.

[@digdrivediy]

I have some of those as well!

[@merlinsatrom6678]

Great practical list! You make it fun to be in the shop!

[@ArmoredXJ]

Ha ha ha. I got a good chuckle out of this… I have used many of those and have most of them in my shop. part antics and part “oh yea YOU.ARE.RIGHT” lol. Great list. Not sure what I would add but let me put some thought in to it. PS - I love how excited your daughter was about the trumpet!

[@shanesherwood343]

Great list the furniture dolly is one of my favorites I get free heavy duty casters at work for free and repurpose them for all Kinda of dollys around the shop one tool you never have enough of is lights flash lights head lamps and drop lights the older I get the more of them I need

[@digdrivediy]

That's true about getting older and needing more light! I find that to be true more every year.

[@frotobaggins7169]

Rather than ice cream buckets, I prefer one, two and 5 gallon buckets. They are much more ridged and durable than ice cream buckets. They don't deform when loaded with tools. Heavy or sharp tools don't go through them. You can mix and catch a variety of products in them paint, concrete, thin set, anti freeze, oil, setting typy compound. They are handy for storing awkward items like caulking guns, hatchets, clamps or any longer items like power washer wands, levels, pry bars. I have one full of shop vac attachments. I keep my paint brushes and supplies in one. Trowels in one. They make good storage mediums for things to be kept dry as many 5 gallon paint buckets have a rubber seal. Not as fun to get as ice cream buckets though.

[@digdrivediy]

Love it

[@matthewcarroll2215]

To add to your list super cheap is a seam ripper. Cheap and quick to cut open a wire loom

[@digdrivediy]

Good one 👍

[@samuelspade889]

Buying a socket sets in a case that keeps them organized and label. I don’t even use my old sockets anymore, I just grab the new organized socket case.

[@shelbydog1100]

Great list. My blasting cabinet, engine hoist, drill press, and press are the most used in my shop.

[@Engelscoachshopp]

👆Text me💬with tele’gram handle up to receive reward🎁thanks for watching

[@joshuaroberts7511]

Great list, definitely getting some emery cloth and I agree bench top grinder with a wire wheel is great, mine has a fine bristle which works nicely If you live in the rust belt a air hammer is a must (best way to knock out swing arm bolts, stuck break drums, ball joints) Multi angle pry bar Small pick set Test light/ multimeter Good plumbing torch Impact screwdriver

[@Engelscoachshopp]

👆Text me💬with tele’gram handle up to receive reward🎁thanks for watching

[@kaboom4679]

They make plier frame flush cutters that are handy for trimming wire ties flush and I have used them for decades . For the cost of your trimmer you can pick up 2 or 3 of these and keep them in various places because you will always misplace the things or have them walk off . The plumbing brushes they sell for cleaning copper pipe are very handy for cleaning battery terminals , and I keep several around . They have an inner and outer brush for 3/4" and 1/2" pipe . For those with deep pockets they make inductive heaters that will heat a bolt red hot for unseizing stuck/ rusted fasteners . You can find old school analog chargers for cheap at garage sales . Another approach is to pull the battery out and charge it with jumper cables from your vehicle until you get enough charge to use the fancy modern charger . They won't charge deeply discharged / dead batteries because it would draw to much initial current and damage the charger . If you can get it to 10 volts or more , you can usually get the charger to not freak out and finish the job . Another great way to organize for a project is to use those Plano 3700 / 3600 tackle boxes for the small parts . They have adjustable compartments and I always have extra around . When I buy a new tackle bag I upgrade the cheap boxes they come with to better ones and use the elcheapos for the shop . If you have an old 5 - 10 horsepower engine , a pulley , and , an old alternator laying around , you can build a portable generator for charging dead batteries . An old push mower frame and handles makes a great base for these . You can use the alternator for DC or AC , and even make a small engine driven welder for small projects , for cheap . Lots of resources on the web with info on modifying alternators for various purposes . Of course a couple of batteries and a set of jumper cables also works for a quick and dirty welding setup .. An air hammer with a blunted chisel or point makes a great set up for knocking out stubborn pins and loosening seized bolts . You can also use an electric breaker / hammer if you have a hammer only function . A needle scaler is a tool you didn't know you were missing , until you get one . Weld slag , heavy rust scale , caked and baked dirt and oil layer , it will make short work of it . For installing bolts and screws in tight quarters , a selection of various pieces of hoses , shrink tube , tape , etc , is very useful . You can put the hose on the head of a fastener to get it started and pull it right off once a couple of threads are engaged . For keeping bolts in a socket a little tape or shrink boot works wonders , same with screw drivers . These too will pull off easily once a few threads are engaged .

[@digdrivediy]

Great list of tips and tricks! Thanks for taking the time to share.

[@leecarrell6952]

Cheap plastic storage boxes with multiple compartments are great for disassemblies. I buy cheap ones from the dollar store for anything that has multiple components. Like say you have to take off a battery bracket, intake hose and airbox to get to an alternator...each set of fasteners goes in a different compartment for easy reassembly but you still have everything all together. The llid keeps nuts and bolts from getting spilled or getting other debris mixed in. You can also label compartments for longer projects where maybe soaking or painting or fabrication might be involved.

[@Engelscoachshopp]

TEXT💬me with the handle☝️ above on tele’gram to receive reward🎁,thanks for watching❤️

[@ericreinoehl4350]

Good list, razor blade problem. Pop can stores years of old blades. Then I tape top and put in works metal dumpster. Could probably put in recycling bin

[@Engelscoachshopp]

👆Text me💬with tele’gram handle up to receive reward🎁thanks for watching

[@slowride55]

A comfortable shop chair is item number 1.

[@melparks2465]

Hey Neil, I find that a quality combination square, like Starrett, Brown & Sharp or Mitutoia is one of the most used items in my shop. Wheather it is a wood project or metal projects if you know the tricks of the tool it is invaluable. The most common is a 12" ruller, I have that along with a 18" and 24" There are also center finder and protractor attachments available.

[@PurpleCollarLife]

Excellent list, Neil! I especially like the zip tie tool. And I use ice cream buckets for taking corn out to the squirrels, deer, and birds and all kind of things (actually Olive Garden 1-gallon soup buckets) - but I've never used it as a tool hauler to project locations. That's a great idea. How did I not think of that? I can't tell you how many times I've struggled carrying a hammer, my drill/battery, bits, screws, screwdriver, electrical tape and wire nuts from my basement tool box to the upstairs. This video reminds me of a point made by Clint Eastwood in his movie Gran Tornio: It takes time to acquire all the tools you'll need in life. It's okay to not have them all at once when you're a young tinkerer. "Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone."

[@digdrivediy]

That's a great quote Chad. I hope that ice cream bucket trick saves you a few trips up the stairs. Plus, you know... You get to eat the ice cream first 😂

[@bobpurs]

Great list Neil and have everything you mentioned. I would add my cordless tools and impacts. Use them all the time and my air tools collect dust now. Speaking of dust a good shop vacuum is used a lot also. Great video

[@digdrivediy]

Good stuff too. Thanks Bob!

[@Georgiagreen317]

Well, Neil, we think (work) alike. 100% of your tools I have and use regularly. In addition to the plastic buckets, I would add bottles. Neither leaves our kitchen without at least a short stay in the shop or garage. The bottles are great for drain oil and other fluids. I also over the years have a large collection of modified tools for all of those tight places and infrequent jobs. A "C" clamp with a little modification makes a decent valve spring compressor for those small engines. And, I likely have dozens of wrenches that were bent or ground to fit and make getting to those hard-to-reach bolts and nuts easier. I buy the cheaper wrenches for that purpose and I usually have a set around just for that purpose. The wire brush on the bench grinder is something that I have learned tough lessons from. I use it all the time, but back in the 60s I stupidly used one without a face shield and I carried around a piece of wire in my eye until it was removed during cataract surgery a couple of years ago. I was dumb back in those days! But I can't count how many times my fingers got sucked into that wire wheel when cleaning a bolt. That smarts and take months to heal. I think I would add utility knives to your list. And as for the silver marker, and this is something you may have a need for soon, after repainting your plastic dash panel on the 318, the silver marker works great for renewing the lettering on your plastic dash panel on the 318, the silver marker works great for renewing the lettering. It will look as good as new. Another good start to a Sunday morning thanks to your latest video. But can we get back to your tractor build soon? :)

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Joe. Great tidbits. I like the idea of the marker for the dash renewal. Plan to have a tractor update this Sunday. Been slow going lately.