Building A Starter Tool Kit ECP 40

[@michaeldougfir9807]

Wow -- an amazing good show. I'm forwarding this to my wife. :-) Thanks for boosting Taiwan. I have been there a few times and support good friendship to these committed allies. About Harbor Freight: always a worhwhile stop for me. And if I don't buy anything that time I can at least see what they have that may be good to know in the future. One of the best things from Harbor Freight has been to convert several wheeled items to solid, flat-proof tires. These include a dolly (hand truck), wheelbarrow, my wife's big garden wagon, and a few other items. No more flat tires! And for a price less than in the chain stores. Years ago my introduction to Harbor Freight was in Camarillo, Calif. They had a parking lot sale. Much of what was there were pieces and parts. I gathered enough parts to assemble a pretty decent table top tablesaw. All for $10! I used that thing for years till I got a Craftsman from a neighbor. As far as old or classic tools goes I go to flea markets and pawn shops. One thing I got means a lot to me in an odd way. I bought a tool box that had a lot of tools in it, including a pair of old Channel Lock pliers. They are just like my Dad's from the 195s. And even though this pair is not from him, they remind me of him. Every time. Where we live, "going to town" means going to Reno or Sparks. Their medical community is huge and very complete; they have a lot of pawn shops, book stores, and some good restaurants. The last Sizzler in Nevada is in Sparks. I would hate (HATE) to see it go.

[@swampwhiteoak1]

Wifey buys me tools. She also bought me a new pickup truck. She is great and I am fortunate.

[@wattwerksltd]

1) tape measure 2) speed square (metal) or combination square 3) spirit or 2ft level 4) drill/driver 5) circular saw 6) channel lock pliers 7) quality screw driver set 8) live wire tester 9) socket set 10) angle grinder

[@kermitjohnson7778]

A good set of vise grips. Large, small,and needle nose.

[@chrismu7190]

In case there are new homeowners reading the comments, I want to point out a few terms that confused me when I bought my first house 20 years ago and was asking for recommendations on tools to buy. Skilsaw is a brand name. The generic name is "circular saw," but many people use the word skilsaw to refer to any circular saw. "Worm drive" and "sidewinder" refer to the two most common gearing and motor arrangements found in circular saws. I've never used a worm drive, but my refurbished (another good way to save a little money on good tools) Hitachi sidewinder circular saw, which I use a few times a year, has served me well. Sawzall is also a brand name that is often used to refer to any reciprocating saw. There's nothing better for demolition work, and my Sawzall got a lot of use when we remodeled our basement ten years ago. I bought it new, but it paid for itself many times over just in that one job. And, finally, I submit that the first tool in any toolbox should be a tape measure. Maybe that's so basic it doesn't need mentioning, but I'm mentioning it anyway. And watch Scott's video on tape measure basics; it will save you time and effort on your projects.

[@jackmiyamoto5270]

great interview and history lesson. As a facilitator of the Channel and this interview, you were terrific. Keeping the interview moving while staying out of the way of the great stories. Your dad is such a complex and well rounded person, perhaps that's why he is so much more than a craftsman but makes us all look into how we comport or selves and our lives. Great job

[@Kralphrn]

He is indeed

[@XtraKargo]

My father and I both got a good chuckle out of the "Swedish nut lathe" comment. Thanks, gentleman. Please keep at it. Much appreciated.

[@NorthWoodsDiver]

We call it a "9/16 adjustable metric crescent hammer"

[@matthewhall5571]

NorthWoodsDiver Saskatchewan socket set Nut rounder Thumb detecting nut rounder All sixteenths wrench

[@psidvicious]

At some point, I’ve given all the females in my family a rechargeable battery drill (usually the smaller Makita 9.6v), a bimetal drill bit index and a screw tip index. I didn’t always get a resounding “Thank You” at the moment of giving, but always at some point, each has made a point to thank me for the gift. EVERYONE needs those things sometime.

[@davekava3946]

When I became a home owner I owned a hammer. That was it. I knew I wanted to start a tool kit to fix things and take on projects. I did a LOT of research. And my first set was a cordless RIDGID set. Best thing I ever did. Now 4 years later I have a small shop with table saw, planer, jointer, routers, sanders, miter saw (Bosch glide) a STIHL 271 and 661 and more. Every year at income tax return I add to my collection. Best thing a home owner can do. Try and fix, repair, and make everything you can. My next investment is going to be a welder

[@garymittelstadt7821]

Great video. I've been "collecting" tools for 50 years. Can't remember ever having sold one. I have three 3/8 ratchets, one was my dad's, one a friend gave me, one I bought. They're all special to me. I have spent hours just looking at my tools in my tool chest. I use them all and try to slow down and enjoy them all. Much easier to do now that I'm retired. People who don't treasure their tools are a mystery to me.

[@bhami]

Please do a separate video on *supplies* to keep in stock: wire nuts, nails, nuts & bolts, various kinds of tape and cement, lumber, patching plaster, ... And a separate video on *PPE*: leather & rubber gloves, goggles, ear muffs, boots, aprons, helmets, ... I live in a 1947 urban/suburban fixer-upper on about a half acre with a large garden. Handy tools you didn't mention: -rubber mallet -4# hammer (used a *lot* more than my 8# sledge) Stuff I've had for only a few years that I wish I had bought many years ago: -small drill press -chop saw (sliding compound miter saw, under $150 on sale at Harbor Freight), but also get a $12 plastic miter box with hand miter saw (very portable!). I use the chop saw a *lot* more than my table saw. Cheap tools where it saves a lot of time if I have multiple sets in multiple locations: -screwdrivers -12' measuring tapes

[@lucilledog8832]

Get your own channel!

[@HardHeadMilitary]

I own 6 of the milwaukee deep compartment boxes for the very resson… various screws (brick, metal, wood) staples, wire nuts, togglebolts, 6-32, 8-32, 10-32, sockets, nut drivers, you name it. Probably the most valuable asset. Saved many trips to the stores. I buy bulk for the jobs and the remaining go to the box

[@royhicks1628]

Recently I had to decide whether to replace my old craftsman cast iron table saw after the motor went up in smoke. I looked at a couple different portable ones at Lowes. Too flimsy, I bought a nice replacement Dayton motor for the old Craftsman and now I'm in the process of putting bearings on the arbor shaft. I've been cleaning and painting and making sure all the pivot points work right. Now that I've had it all apart I can see how well made it was. I don't regret my choice at all.

[@snymat_68]

Scott, you hit the nail on the head at the very end. You quickly forget how much an expensive tool cost, but a cheap tool will pain you every time you use it for years to come. My dad started me off with my own tools when I was young. My collection grew along with me as my projects got bigger and more involved, from carpentry, to electrical, plumbing, automotive restoration, welding, landscaping, you name it. I also inherited some of my grandfathers tools when he passed. I'm 33 now and have been a homeowner for 7 years. At this point, it's safe to say I have more tools than my dad (who designed and built his own house when I was 1 year old). I'm fortunate enough to be able to invest so much in tools, but I also pride myself on being the guy everyone comes to when they need something built or fixed. Although sometimes that can be a problem by itself. Haha. I am still fairly young. So I see tools as an investment and always try to buy tools that are going to last a long time. My dad is to the point where he isn't buying a lot of tools anymore. Not because he already has everything, but because he doesn't see himself using certain things enough anymore to justify it. Like all things in life, it's a balancing act. I've also been blessed with a wife like yours that knows how much a good tool means to me and doesn't put up a fight when I buy a new one. Of course that's a double-edged sword too, as she rides and competes equestrian and I look the other way on a lot of her horse expenses. :) The other thing to be said for buying quality tools (not necessarily expensive, but QUALITY) is that it helps you focus on the task at hand, instead of getting frustrated with the tool, or possibly even damaging the work. This is important when you're trying to learn new skills. Welding is a great example of this. Can you make good welds with a junk welder? Sure. But it's much easier and satisfying to learn on a welder that you're not fighting it just to get it to run right. My set of tools (and skills) has come a long way over the years, and I will continue to grow and improve both, probably as long as I'm still kickin'. Just last year I purchased a subcompact tractor and several implements (backhoe, tiller, box blade, etc). While not hand tools, and probably not for the "average Joe", I've found them to be invaluable around my property. Allowing me to undertake larger and more difficult projects that I never would have attempted to tackle on my own before. And I guess the same can be said about all tools. For me, it's not so much about the tools themselves, but about what I can accomplish with them. As a final note, I decided to look around my shop and make a list of my top 10 tools that I use MOST OFTEN. They are as follows... 1. Cordless impact driver/drill. 2. Screwdrivers 3. Tape measure 4. Sockets/wrenches 5. Cutters/dikes/snips 6. Pliers 7. Bench vise 8. Hammers 9. Angle grinder (w/ cut-off wheel, grinding disk, wire cup brush, and flap disk) 10. Saws (hand, various power) 11. [Bonus Tool] Pocket Knife (always on me) PS - As always, thanks to both of you for putting out these videos, and know that, not only are they entertaining, but I appreciate the plethora of valuable information in them also. Keep up the good work guys!

[@ac170]

"Tools are to men as shoes are to women." My wife always pushes me to get quality over price. For my hobby shop second hand has been great. Get good quality, and the cost is less for occasional use. Still remember finding a 3/8 Snap on socket set at an estate sale for 10$. Put a big smile on my old mug.

[@joshuahlogan9403]

Such great content. I'm 40 now and until I was 30 I bought necessities and at that point I learned from my uncle who has been a craftsman, custom saddle maker, to buy the best quality tool I could afford. So since I've turned into a bit of a tool glutton some second hand some new but the best buy I could. It's been the best advise I could ever receive. Proud to say I have a good kit now.

[@rogerlatterell7157]

Oscillating multi tool has become one of my most Used tools for remodeling.

[@DrewPeabawls]

I’m with you, Scott! Can you believe my wife said we needed a skillsaw? Yet I’ve been the only one using it :)

[@truenorth7754]

I knew I had become "old" when I began to see things as lasting me for the rest of my life.

[@pi8041]

Voice of a good story teller and teacher .

[@horneygeorgeforge7079]

after learning the basics of black smithing and the ability to make your own tools. i take pride in the ability to do it.

[@nickpersenaire4443]

I couldn't have said it better thanks for sharing your outstanding content, Scott and Nate.

[@ThePaulWilliams]

The right tool can make all the difference. Thanks for the great advice!

[@carollshelby500]

I agree with the hand saw! So classic and useful

[@jamesdeugan744]

Estate auctions have been wonderful as a DIY mechanic and homeowner. I did ask for a Burke bar for fathers day a couple years ago , and my wife did get it for me.

[@KyleStanulis]

Omg Nate I was never able to put why I like nice tools. “Knowing I’ll have these tools for decades”.

[@reevvaa]

I work in an office, but I love buying tools.... please don’t tell my wife! Love all your channel’s, keep up the good work. X

[@jonathankipps9061]

Another tip -- This is from the perspective of a farmer buying used mechanic's tools. New off-brand tools are a real gamble. You really have no idea about the quality of these tools. Used off-brand tools are a different story. If you find a 3/4" drive socket set at an auction, and the sockets are dinged, scratched, rusty, and mismatched brands, that will be a good set. The former owner has used and abused those sockets, and has replaced the ones that have not stood up to his testing. He's had six-foot cheater bars on those sockets, he's been using them on red-hot bush-hog blade bolts, etc. Those are the sockets you want to buy for your farm shop. To varying degrees, this same principle holds true for other classes of tools as well. Look for used tools that have been thoroughly vetted by a previous owner.

[@normanlorrain]

I used to go to estate/garage sales. Make a wish list and keep your eyes peeled.

[@high.tened_sense5966]

Great show guys! Appreciate all you do. I think you hit the nail on the head and discovered a reoccurring running series which is tools made in America! Maybe tools that you know of and have found and also have companies call in or feature them every episode so that we also may support made in America

[@uoila]

Don't forget a good shop vac. Not necessarily the shop vac brand. I like Ridgid but whatever you get... get the one with a big 2" hose. You WILL NOT regret it. You really don't want to be sucking up sawdust or metal shavings with your home vacuum. This needs to be at the top of any homeowner's list.

[@jonathanacton5133]

flooded basement or garage shop vacuums come in handy take out bag and filter first

[@bhami]

My shop vac's home is where it plugs into a switch than automatically turns it on whenever I run my chop saw, to suck up the sawdust.

[@mrmorganmusic]

Just bought a Ridgid 12 gallon this summer. Bigger than I need, for sure, but my GOD is it helpful. Oh my word. Love that thing. Can’t believe we went this long without one.

[@GRUBB-MUDD]

I really liked this video

[@DajNation]

As an HVAC tech, my advise would be to add some sort of wet or dry - shop vac for your home. Here in the South East, many hvac systems are in the attic. When the drain line backs up, and it will at some point, you need to be able to get that water out of the emergency pan. Of course you can just call your HVAC guy or gal. But it cost you more when we have to go up and down those attic stairs 4-5 times with our shop vac, to empty out the drain pan. Not to mention it slows our whole day down. Or night, if it's an emergency call, which costs you even MORE money! So do yourselves a favor, buy a small shop vac. Even a cheap, "bucket head" shop vac from Home Depot or Lowe's, and a 5 gallon bucket will do the trick. Plus they just come in handy for so many things.

[@thomasdehler2087]

Oscillating tool, and make sure it's corded (don't want to run out of power). It has saved me so many times in remodeling and can't be beat for some projects.

[@larrycroft470]

Y'all are great. As a dad the relationship you two have is so heart warming. I enjoy all your videos - thank you so much for taking time to make them. And gentlemen...........MAGA !!!

[@dtuer]

Barrel-Grip Jig Saw is a versatile tool anyone should consider. You can do a lot with a good quality (Bosch) one. Just used it an hour ago. I found one for 45 bucks at a pawn store not long ago, made in Sweden no less.

[@janderson8401]

I love barrel grip jig saws. As a young apprentice I spent the good part of a day cutting quarter circles on the top of fence pickets using my uncle’s barrel grip Milwaukee. When I needed to jet my own I bought the Bosch.

[@slowmotionjones]

"For my conscience, I'd like to see a lot of tools there made in Taiwan.". Thank you for saying this, a lot of people feel the same way.

[@aerialrescuesolutions3277]

Excellent video. One tool you really want the best American made , Or German is, Line wrenches. These are more a automotive mechanics tool, but the cheap ones flex and strip the line bolt heads , and then you are in a big bind. Keep up the great work, stay beautiful and safe. Jim

[@stpittard]

Purchased the Hercules compound miter chop saw and the 15 amp bench table saw from Harbor Freight. They feel very healthy and I am impressed so far.

[@chrisdevine4448]

1-5 pc combo cordless set (drill,impact,grinder,sawzall,light) 2-starter tool belt(belt , hammer , exsacto knife,tape,speed square,level,cats paw,3pc chisel set,5pc punch set,sawzall blade handle or small hand saw)3-socket set (150pc is a good starter)4-screwdriver set 5-plier set that has one locking plier That’s what I started with and built off that good way to do it I think kinda the back bone stuff to branch off for specific tasks

[@gustjerry9139]

If I could vote twice for this video I would. Thank you.

[@jeremydoblinger3609]

Large knipex pliers are great as well..

[@robertengl9152]

Great find on the acorn table! Please post a video

[@mikes1345]

You cracked me up when you said your shop will be your kids problem when you die. My kids have told me to live longer cuz they dont want to deal with my shop. Our goal is to get even with them for causing the balding and graying we now have! When we put a house on 10 acres I searched for a while for a used tractor and mower. My wife suggested to look at new ones and save the headache of keeping it running when I needed it. So I did! Salesman convinced me to add FEL as accessory for $3200. Now twenty years later that is the absolute best accessory I ever had. Has paid for itself many times over. She rags me about her being right but she was!

[@trawlertravels6376]

Guys, I have to say, Scott we are blessed men, my wife has ALWAYS (24yrs) been on board with tools. They pay the Bill's and keep you safer. Right tool for the job. Full disclaimer. I am in the pro category.

[@markrice1549]

Thank you so much for addressing some tools! It’s greatly appreciated!

[@rototiller78]

Also, I agree with the statement "buy the best tool that you can afford". Also, sometimes the statement "buy once, cry once" applies.

[@watchthe1369]

hammer, 2 screwdrivers, pliers, channel locks, strap wrench, adjustable wrench, utility knife, power drill, circular saw, angle grinder, saftey glasses, ear protection. a couple spare batteries with charger if you go cordless. 3/8 drive socket set metric/SAE Consider Sawzall, impact driver, hand saw, centerpunch set, Paint knife/scraper.

[@zekezeke3484]

My nominations for top 10: linemans pliers (quality models can be used for wire cutting and stripping, plus pliers) , 5-in-1 painters tool , 6-in-1 screwdriver, Channellock pliers, hammer, utility knife, tape measure, Irwin hand saw (the only one that is worthwhile in the modern saws, others have blades which are too thin), chalk line, speed square.

[@foundryman1985]

Need a chalk line, speed square, a rafter square is nice, level (1 foot, 4 foot), tape measures, two different sizes of hammers, 20 oz & 12 oz smooth faced, a good set of twist drill bits, and impact driver bits to go with the cordless tools. I live by the fact of never enough tools.

[@ancientwestonian]

I looked to see if someone mentioned squares, levels, and tape measures. How'd they miss that? hahaha Seemed the sentiment of the talk ended up more about affordability and quality tools than a comprehensive list that a homeowner really has to got to have to handle 100's of simple tasks.

[@GRUBB-MUDD]

that 1st company i ever worked for, only used hand saws. 2x8 2x6 2x4, get to cutting! if we had to rip we used a tablesaw

[@jamesdeugan744]

Also the burke bar is Marshalltown made in Marshalltown Iowa I believe.

[@jamesdeugan744]

I checked it is but the refer to it as the little monster pry bar

[@jameski5oeb668]

I’ve had a Knipex Cobra since 1994ish model 8701180 and they can do pipe and nuts/bolts!

[@TheWaynew2]

I agree Scott, you can't have enough tools. I bought a Milwaukee angle drill ten years a go to drill studs for electrical. Drilled twenty studs and haven't used it since, but I HAVE that cool drill.

[@MattsAwesomeStuff]

"Drilled twenty studs and haven't used it since, but I HAVE that cool drill." -- This is the antithesis of what I'd give anyone for advice, because of this situation. You bought a high end specialty tool you used for 20 holes 10 years ago. This is exactly where I would advice a homeowner to buy the cheapest that might make it through the job, and replace if they use it enough to break it. Spend extra money on the tools you'll use, or you'll not be able to afford enough to actually do anything. (If you have too much money, then, asking for advice on what to buy doesn't make sense. You just buy anything you want regardless).

[@stephenayer8251]

The optimum solution for 20 holes would be a 4 hour rental from Home Depot. On one hand you got to experience using a professional quality tool to accomplish a job and if in the future you develop a greater need for a right angle drill you know what tool to buy or rent depending on project size and you didn't waste time, money nor frustration buying a cheap tool destined for the landfill instead of your grandchildren!

[@DIGGER19860]

Im pretty sure the last toolset i saw at costco was a dewalt set.

[@ChristmasLightsTonight]

A massive point in the "plus" column for the cordless variant of a skilsaw, for me, ties with the fact that I don't own a truck, and thus generally would not be able to fit any substantial size of lumber in my car. Rather than spend half an hour trying to find a Lowe's employee to mosey their way over to the cut station to help me out, with my cordless skilsaw I can just buy full-size stuff, even full sheet goods, and chop it down to size in the parking lot to fit in my station wagon. You catch some raised eyebrows, and I do still want a truck, but working as a desk jockey and using this trick I still don't have a solid need for one.

[@jonathanacton5133]

I love my Estwing Hammers , I still have some of my old school Stanley tools.12 gauge extension coords come in handy even with corded lawn tools as well , I love the Estwing Hammer Patina that comes with tool life another great brand US made.

[@StoneUFO]

Grinder is a good one as well

[@mrkern81]

Start buying kids tools for birthdays/Christmas (and make sure they can use them) instead of toys and sweaters. I still use a huge craftsman socket set I got when I was 14, and I went to college packing almost everything you listed into my little dorm closet.

[@agoogleuser1594]

I usually buy the tools I need to do a job. If I can buy a tool and do something with it for less than the cost to hire it out I consider it a win. I saved a bit of money and now I have a tool to use the next time.

[@AyAytch]

When I bought my first pair of Kline wire strippers, I just threw it in my shopping cart without looking at the price. When I was looking at the receipt later, it turned out they cost $47. I thought this was a lot of money and let my coworkers know about my frustration. To the point where I could holler "Go get $47!" and my coworkers would bring/throw that stripper to me. It's still sharp and I wouldn't replace it with anything else though, so it was worth $47.

[@thomaspayne4233]

As far as tool strength and value goes the KZbin channel Project Farm is a fantastic resource for comparisons.

[@TheFlyinrhino]

I would add oscillating multi tool to the list I take it to every project and has replaced my Sazall 90% of the time partner with good blades they are so versatile even a lower cost one.

[@hoopla1203]

Just to touch on the mechanics tool stuff like the craftsman vs snap on. I’m in my late 20s and I’ve been working in mechanic shops since I was 15 and had my first actual technician job when I was 18 and have been buying tools ever since. The first thing I’ll say is there really is a difference between the high end tools and the low end tools and the warranty is only a small part of it. My time is my money and I’m paid per job and a craftsman ratchet works half as good as my $200 snap on ratchet and I can notice a difference in my productivity and how hard the job was. The hand tools non mechanics refer to as mechanics tools are home gamer tools not professional tools and the average person has never even heard of most professional brands. After all that being said you don’t need snap on. No one needs snap on and it’s sort of industrial momentum and peer pressure that keeps getting the young guys to owe more on a tool box than their car. I have a lot of tools I spent a lot of money on and if I could do it all again I wouldn’t have spent half my minimum wage paychecks as a tire guy in my teens on snap on tools Id lose when I left it under a car 6 months later. There’s some stuff to spring on, a nice ratchet, fine tooth with a locking flex head and a cushion grip will run you around $200 and I have that in my hand a large chunk of my waking hours so I’ll buy it as many times as I lose it, but I like the Matco more and it’s a little cheaper so why would I buy the snap on. The warranty is nice but I switched to marine work years ago and now my tools disappear into dark holes or the harbor more often than I break them so those returns are already diminishing. Also we have a huge array of companies that filled the gap between the pro brands and the junk. I wanted some new screwdrivers because the snap on doesn’t feel nice i my hand anymore (that’s a mechanics life for you, switching tools because of arthritis at 27) and after I had a good friend ,who’s also a mechanic, recommend a Japanese company called vessel. I bought them on amazon, 100$ for an 8 piece set (probably half the price of snap on set I own and thats only a 6 piece) and they’re the best screwdrivers I think I’ve ever owned. Warranty is through the mail which is fine becuase the snap on truck is at the shop once a week and I miss him most of the time from being on a job down at the docks. We have a 18 year kid who just started at the ship yard and as the youngest person who’s been around enough to give real advice I’ve taken him under my wing while he’s buying tools, learning jobs, and making minimum wage while paying rent in Southern California. He’s getting into some out drive work and needed a big 1/2 ratchet and was belly aching over saving up 300$+ for a long handle flex head snap on ratchet and everyone else is telling him to finance it and when I told him to go buy the gear wrench branded ratchet on Amazon he was thrilled and got a set of gear wrench sockets too that hold a fine warranty and the ratchet feels great. This kid doesn’t need to have a rolling bill with the tool truck he can barely eat and the only thing your doing is impressing the other mechanics you work with and if you had half a brain you’d realize were all dirtbags and our opinion shouldn’t matter anyways. So there is a difference in tool quality that’ matters to pros but with snap on your paying for the name and in this age they’re running out of ways to make it worth you while. Thank you for coming to my TED talk

[@jeffm.2119]

A Corded saw is what I’m leaning towards. I have the ryobi system, and you’re right, my little batteries that i already have 5 of, are 1/2 the size of the batteries that come with their brushless 7 1/4” circular saw. So instead of $250-$450 on a battery saw setup, the corded models start at $50-$100.

[@timhale501]

We are just finishing our twin home project Each one 2 K sq ft with each with 24 X 36 garages joined in the middle. My wife designed her dream kitchen and I said I don't have enough tools to build cabinets. she said get them ordered. I bought 2 pro routers at $300, bits , pocket drill/ a used dewalt 7 1/4 panel saw for $100, new cord and wood runners. I probably bought $3 k total to build a large kitchen

[@rgbrown90]

The biggest acorn table I've seen in my travels was in JLG lifts fab shop in Greencastle, PA Went down there to repair a plasma cutting power supply for work and it blew my mind Had to of been 20 plus feet long by several feet in width Wish I had asked to a take a few pictures of it

[@CleaveMountaineering]

Lets see more on this acorn table!!! Also, Sturdy workbench with vise Hand files Hacksaw Angle grinder Wood chisel(s) Sharpening stone Hand plane Clamps

[@isestrex]

Production request: Could we get this video re-edited with clips of said tools being used (or at least pictures)? As an amateur, I think I know what most of these tools are, but seeing an overlay of what the tool is and what it's used for as you talk about how "must own" they are would do a lot for my education.

[@johncatt1867]

I am a Fire Alarm Service Tech, and when you mentioned buying a good pair of wire strippers that will last a life time. I totally agree, however in my world wire strippers are a daily use item, and I buy them at least 1 a year, as they are a consumable, but I have several friends, that I pass down my (worn out to me) wire strippers, but are still perfectly good for what they need.

[@mrmorganmusic]

Thoughts on when you ought to replace tools? Buy new when an old one busts, or get one sooner if you know you can get a better one? I have a Craftsman 19v drill, and it does the trick for the most part, but I’d love to step up to a Dewalt if possible. Do I need it? Probably not. But I do want one....

[@wilwaricson]

I'm sure it's been said, and I haven't scanned the comments, but speaking as a mechanic, I have to say 3 things about the Snap-on/Marco/Mac/etc pro-rated mechanic's hand tools: 1) They're made to hold up to daily abuse, and you but them when you cannot afford not to have them. Craftsman, Husky, and whatever the other big box hardware stores sell are great for homeowners, and I don't mean to disparage if that's the intended use, but they do not hold up in a shop. 2) The tool truck comes to you, so if you have something break, the guy who's gonna replace it will be there every week and he'll bring the replacements to you. 3) The tools aren't more "elegant", they're ergonomic. Something that's going to be in your hand every day needs to feel good in your hand. For the average homeowner, that will never be a concern, but Snap On and all the others have a market because they tick all those boxes, and professional mechanics will spend the money for them.

[@jerthomas839]

As a mechanic working in the shop the thing that Snap-on brings to the table as well as the quality is a salesman’s they’re pretty much on a weekly basis

[@robgraff]

That's right, you pay extra for them to come to you weekly & take weekly payments. $25.00 a week for the rest of your life.

[@CJ_Bell]

Snap-On is a similar category to a $300 framing hammer. If you make a living turning a wrench for forty hours a week. Snap-On is worth the money. When you work on your own house or car. You're not spinning that ratchet 1 million times a month or loosing substantial productivity if it can't last a million more turns. Also baked into their price is the necessity of having a truck come by the autoshop every day to see if you need to buy or replace that crucial tool. There's also features in their tools aimed at reliving headaches mechanics have dealt with for decades. Their ratchets can take hits from deadblow hammers without breaking because they know that breaking loose corroded and over tightened hardware is part of our business. With all that strength the ratchet pawls and gears still inside manage to run like a swiss watch at tiny intervals that make clicking the handle back in cramped spaces possible. They make things big box store brands don't bother with like hinged crow's foot flare nut sockets etc. Stuff like that that can be a godsend to someone in a specialist trade. But not so much for someone starting out or doing DIY stuff. I'd definitely say that Snap-On ratchet handles (especially the flex-handled versions) would fall into the category of 'buy if you can afford it'. But the sockets, combo wrenches, hammers etc. you can absolutely save your money by skipping the Snap-on brand. In most cases you'll loose your sockets before you'll break them and you'll most likely happen to be passing by the tool isle at a lowe's or an auto parts store before you see a snap-on truck drive past your house to get a replacement.

[@jpm1211]

I'd have to put the sawzall (recipricating saw) pretty high on the list, I use the heck out of mine. Most recently for pruning some trees from a precarious position far too high above the ladder I extended farther than I should have... And air compressor. Pancake, or a big one, I dearly love my air compressor. And it's a gateway drug, billions of add ons do along with that.

[@FlaskTL]

You guys should test the Icon stuff from HF. Very surprised by my limited yet positive experience with a few of the ratcheting wrenches by Icon.

[@biggsweaty]

Thanks, you guys.

[@sparkysimian]

Love the harbor freight comment. Last month I bought a welder, and all the gear to go with it. Welder ended up being a hobart, but the grinder, magnets, some safety gear, etc... all came from harbor freight.

[@marcinlenski3857]

My wife.. O yeah. One day I (planning to buy some new equipment, some saw or new drill, whatever..) said - you know, one should buy expensive tools, because they are good, they are worth their price and working with them you eliminate "tool error". She said Yes, you are right! Which made me happy, of course. And the nex day she bought the most expensive spinning wheel I have ever seen :-). But to be honest, I have never heard her complaining about any tool I bought. Sometimes smiling and laughin but never complaining!

[@andrewvigil3313]

Knipex is the way to go. I accidentally bought a few pairs at the swap meet a few years ago. They're lighter and tighter than any of the other brands and it makes a real difference. I use them everyday.

[@kengamble8595]

Thanks for sharing and take care. 👍

[@kenstewart687]

I had a neighbor whom loved auctions. He would at least buy a box of junk for 25 cents. One contained a broken Snap On end wrench. They gave him a new one and no questions ask.

[@j.r.5130]

haha that's awesome

[@christopheryoung7456]

Well we still make fighter jets! Hahaha loved it Nate. Great talk guys

[@anthonygm85]

Speaking from a mechanical background and lots of other tool related fields snap on is very expensive but for everyday use there wrenches ratchets and socket hold up and feel great in the hand all day. I have my old craftsman stuff and the do not feel as comfortable for 8 to 10 hours a day.

[@3bnjo3]

"we multiply our usefulnfess with our tools" excellent statement

[@HardHeadMilitary]

I buy the off brand batteries from amazon, whichever set has the best reviews. I got 2-6.0 milwaukee knockoffs for $45 also they sell a 4 pack charger with usb ports for $75 and it charges in parallel, not in sequence like milwaukee 6 pack

[@RobertCBaldwinJr]

My wife too, never gives me a hard time when I acquire a tool - it allows me to do the work, at a significant savings than it would cost to hire someone to do the work for us.

[@swampwhiteoak1]

In my lifetime I have done a lot of framing carpentry work with a Stihl chainsaw. Eventually, I got electricity and then a Milwaukee circular saw. Life is good.

[@edjones3390]

Most useful tool (for me) needle nose pliers - favourite tool No 8 jointing plane - just feels great to use - don't know how I survived without my cordless drill

[@jeremydoblinger3609]

Since the age of 18 I've been doing my own auto and home work so I've always seemed to acquire new tools as jobs come up and they always pay for themselves.. my mechanics tools have paid for themselves 10 times over in save auto repair bills.. and now iam having to get more advanced diagnostic equipment but it pays off. Us DIY and pro homeowners need lots of tools...

[@zekezeke3484]

I nominate a high quality 5-in-1 painters tool to the top 5 tools to have for a homeowner. For paint, varnish, caulk, putty, adhesive, etc. removal, use as a fine pry tool for molding/trim removal, good for applying localized pressure, excellent as a "backer" for another pry bar to avoid damage to finished drywall, trim, etc. Must be a high-quality model though, cheap ones are simply frustrating.

[@frankcurley]

Dad told me" Always buy the best you can until you can afford what you wish for", what he was saying was don't buy the cheapest.

[@swampwhiteoak1]

Crescent wrench = swedish nut lathe, hammer, pry bar, chisel, who knows from there. Wifey bought me a a few very nice extension cords. They are great and so is she. Flea markets are great places to find used tools. However, beware of buying used tools because sometimes they are the subject of employee theft.

[@harrytinker2328]

Your tools should grow along with your skills, and not too far ahead of them.

[@tonyn3123]

Comments: Regarding mechanics tool sets, when Sears was in their hay-day, their Craftsman tools were affordable and easy to use. I have a cabinet drawer full of really good Craftsman wrenches and screw drivers that I have had for 40 years. I love them. As they wained in business and sent their manufacturing overseas, I noticed a very evident difference in fit, finish and overall quality. The last Craftsman wrench I bought was rough (almost felt sandblasted) and almost cut my hand when I pulled hard on a bolt. The girth of the wrench was also reduced significantly which didn't make pulling with it easy on the hands. My understanding is that Stanley/B&D is committed to bring back the quality we once knew. When I go to Lowes or Target, I have been looking at the wrenches. I have noticed a better feel and aesthetics to the wrenches. I hope this change continues. HF. I am not much of a metal worker, but periodically I do work with metal. My son bought me a HF 4-1/2" angle grinder several years ago. After, I found a PC on sale and bought it for when the HF grinder bit the dust. Well, I am still using the HF grinder 10 years later. I also buy things like zip ties (which I use for everything), sandpaper, sponge brushes, numerous woodworking clamps, etc at HF. I have not had a serious issue with anything I buy there. I do reserve my purchases to things that are disposable or have limited use for my needs. The comment "keep it sharp if you have time". I say just keep it sharp. B&D. I bought a B&D circular saw in my teens from my grocery store job funds. I am 67. I used that thing until about 10 years ago (not professionally, but for home use) and the motor finally wore out. I went to Lowes and bought another B&D because it was on sale. I swear it's a great saw to use. It's comfortable, powerful enough, and has built several structures that has certainly put it through it's paces. I bought my first one when B&D was a quality company. It lasted through the years when B&D really got cheap in my opinion. My newer one is more in line with the quality I initially purchased.

[@2chipped]

#1 Plierwrench, and Cobra from Knipex. #2 screwdriver with bit set,including hex metric and standard. #3 is cordless impact/drill with drill and driver bits. #4 3/8 drive socket set. #5 is a multimeter . I have been to pawnshops ,fleamarkets etc about 500x in Ga. Have maybe seen 2 wormdrive saws,its a regional thing. Re; the list ,we live with KZbin tutorials galore. Train your brain to learn how systems work,then learn how to build and repair anything you own.

[@ericvazquez6766]

Your dad said it perfect. There is something special about a snap on wrench the feel the darker USA steel. Prices are crazy but if you love tools and you want to buy the best USA made hand tools snap on and even Mac make some great stuff.

[@Matt123a]

Tackle boxes with organised screws, bolts, washers, nuts, rivets, etc. Materials: every broken toy, bike and gadget over 20 years. Labour: kids OJT. Cost: ~free.

[@bobsmith-ru7xp]

I got a Skil wormdrive and a DeWalt sidewinder, the Skil never gets used, around here no one even uses wormdrives on the job, they're just too damn heavy for using overhead.

[@DominickCascianoIII]

Gosh I love tools 😍

[@don_chuwish]

I would say compound miter saw, sliding if possible, before circular saw. "Skil"saws require an amount of skill and risk of injury that may be a barrier to many.