The Bucket of Tools to Tackle 99% of Projects

[@mrmicro22]

My mom remarried late in life to a really great guy. I'm pretty handy but realized quickly he had a lifetime of experience and look on him as a mentor. If he did something, I decided I would copy it until I had something reason not to. I rarely have a reason not to. He showed up to help with his bucket of tools and I decided I needed a bucket of tools. Every kid who moved into a house got a bucket full of garage sale and discount tools to get them started (and insured I had a basic tool load out any time I visited). Love a bucket liner.

[@iamkerok]

First circular saw cut is in the parking lot of Lowes so you can get the wood into that Geo Metro!

[@rickgilbrt]

I have made preliminary cuts in dry wall so it would fit in my short-bed Tacoma. The center sliding rear window is great for holding 8-12 ft boards, pipe or moulding without having it stick way over the 5 ft bed.

[@hanselito2416]

Good call, always make the cut list before the lumber trip 😂

[@rylEYElyr]

I worked for 5 years as a fireplace installer. Built 'em, tore 'em down. Framing, electrical, gas, masonry, finish cabinetry, tile, roof, etc. Anything and everything pertaining to fireplaces. Craftsman's bucket looks a heck of a lot like the bucket I brought to every jobsite for those 5 years. 10/10, this is a good bucket.

[@MaranathaAlpacas]

I would also add a 5-in-1 painting tool... very handy and compact..

[@TestyMcTestypants]

I concur 100%! A good 7-in-1 also works.

[@stevensko9153]

Purdy

[@tedkrush5661]

Yup. When I do site visits for work, I always take it if I am checking my bags. Can't do that if I am only doing carry-on

[@Oxcart19-s8r]

Bucket List: Circular Saw Pry Bar Hammer Clamp ie, F-style Caulk Gun Oscillating Multi-tool & Blade Assortment Level Tri-Square Tape Measure Tin Snips Knipex plier (large) Vice Grips Wire-tying Plier Electric Circuit Tester Chisel Pencil Stud Finder Paint Brush Drill & Bit/Driver Assortment White Chalk Line Multi-tool ie, Leatherman Utility Knife Nail Set Viewers have also suggested a bucket liner to assist with bucket organization.

[@ssmith8881]

Yes, a tool bucket organizer, about $25 at Lowes, well worth the investment.

[@pzwolski]

I would add a file to smooth out things and edges.

[@vespermk]

To my bucket I also carry a few zip ties, a short section of wire, electrical tape and an old peanut butter jar filled with a few random screws, wire nuts, bolts and nuts.

[@graftedin3]

Good Idea

[@HammerNQuill]

Zip ties! Almost never use them except for quick fixes or to clean up some wiring, secure something to a vehicle, etc. ⁵/⁸ screws, 1", 1.25", 2", 3" screws for most occasions. Drywall anchors, washers, and... SUPER GLUE. 2P-10 and activator.

[@HammerNQuill]

And a Pozi #2 screwdriver (or long 2" or greater insert bit).

[@markp6062]

Ahhh, yes, the 20 year bin of fasteners! Zip ties is a good add, too!

[@TheJohn8765]

"Look at it as relationship you're trying to strengthen". Damn. Wise words.

[@Dadhaspowertools]

Probably as important as anything else said in this video!

[@jason.dinsmore]

Yep, that hit home. It's all about perspective.

[@ethan288]

I swear this man is wizard Gandalf. The amount of simple knowledge that he has is incredible. Thank you for sharing.

[@jaredwaters4633]

Maybe I missed it but a screwdriver (those multi bit ones are great) is an absolute must

[@pforbom1844]

One thing you missed is what I call my dad called his miracle box. Mine It’s a small parts bin with an assortment of hardware, screws, nails, wire terminals, nuts and bolts, wire nuts, washers for taps, wall anchors, picture hangers, etc etc etc. This box has save me countless trips to the box store.

[@zaxmaxlax]

I have 3 of those, each year I say I'll sort them out 😂 2025 will be the year

[@paulkelly1702]

Or a coffee can of assorted parts as you described.

[@kurthanushek5520]

I have 3 too. One for electrical parts, one for plumbing parts, and one for fasteners.

[@markp6062]

The 20 year bin!

[@TheJasoninman]

I have a welding rod case filled full to brim of small wood screws on up to 3” screws and everything in between with wire nuts and all sorts of stuff . It goes with my bag

[@rosecotton3753]

Thank you for this guide! I love your energy and that you share it with others. 😊

[@jimmulligan7494]

Great video. As an old plumber who gets calls for all sorts of reasons, that is a good bucket. Always tell people it easier to work in someone else’s house, because in my own I get one tool at a time, versus yours, I’ll show up w everything. A good bucket, well thought out, is gold.

[@user-zz8ln3uh5x]

Thanks for making me think! I hadn't considered the white chalk thing. I'm always trying to make my tools more compact Some products that were covered but might be more space efficient are: 1) Milwaukee M12 oscillating tool 2) Milwaukee M12 impact driver with a variety of bits and a skinny step drill bit 3) Milwaukee M12 circular saw OR a folding Japanese saw might make more sense for random small projects 4) Extra battery and charger for the above 5) Spring Tools hinge pin and nail set... you don't need a hammer to operate 6) If you're gonna take a caulking gun and don't want to go to the store again, it might make more sense to just put a small variety of squeeze tubes of paintable and silicone caulks in the bucket 7) FastCap makes robust folding chisels that keep you from inadvertently cutting yourself when rooting around in the bucket 8) Wide putty knife... works pretty well as a dust pan, among other things Penultimately, I'd take a small assortment of WAGO electrical connectors and a variety of screws, pan head and bugle head. It'd also be a good idea to bring some PTFE tape and electrical tape. Drydex is also handy. Come to think of it... I'd include a sanding sponge. Lastly and least importantly, the germans pronounce it Kuh-Nee-Pex ; )

[@WhippledNOS]

I love your videos. Thank you. My old man was a craftsman and was teaching me, but got diagnosed and passed from cancer prior to being about to teach me a lot. You're videos remind me of him. Teaching. Learning. Experienced education. ❤ here's to many years to come brother. 🍻

[@kevinfortney364]

I agree with everything you put in your bucket. I would add a 5 in 1 painters tool. It has so many different uses other than painting. Great video!!!

[@graftedin3]

Even you comment section is filled with good Ideas. You inspire those that think ahead of time.

[@daveknott4563]

38 yo craftsman and fixer, and I can appreciate this for simplicity reasons and drawing off your timeless wisdom. Thanks!

[@WardNH]

I adopted the "Go Bucket" system for projects around the house a few years ago and am happy to see most of the tools I keep are in line with your recommendations here. I added a nice canvas "Bucket Boss" to the bucket which give me some nice pouches and loops to organize tools on.

[@graftedin3]

me too

[@SilverBullet93GT]

i dare to say, this video should be mandatory in school.

[@youtubemademecreateanewcha6965]

Yes agree 100%. In SoCal high schools don’t teach shop anymore. Kids don’t know how to fix let alone build anything.

[@Evan5519]

Yes! Vice grips made the bucket list! I swear vice grips never get the love they deserve on these shows.

[@headcas620]

They definitely can get you out of a jam

[@morg52]

If you find yourself stumped for what to give as a wedding present, a bucket or toolbox with tools can be a hit with lots of folks getting started in the world. I would add to your bucket a small coil of re-bar wire and a good brand of duct tape.

[@handymanhoney-do6881]

I’ve given a bucket of tools as a housewarming gift. Much better than a bottle of wine

[@morg52]

@@handymanhoney-do6881 It can get pricey if you go for quality tools. :)

[@henri6595]

Can you give used tools? New tools would be expensive

[@morg52]

@@henri6595 Of course, why not?

[@billk8780]

Doing fixit jobs at my daughter's place which is thousands of miles away. So heartily endorse Scott's bucket list of tools! Happy new year to all!

[@disqusrubbish5467]

In your case, she should be Keeper of the Bucket.

[@0000Sierra117]

Happy New Year! And around the holidays that last message rings especially true: More important than the work itself is the relationships you're building and strengthening. I've been away from home awhile and can't wait to get back and share those hugs and stories again, but in the meantime, an Essential Craftsman video and a hot beverage are nice companions for a little bit of desk work in the evening. Thanks a million for sharing your knowledge here.

[@walterbordett2023]

My adds to the kit, electrical tape, hex key set, multi driver screwdriver, crescent wrench, flashlight. If you expect to be under a sink, add a basin wrench. Make sure your multi joint pliers open big enough to do an 1 1/2 inch slip nut for a p trap. I prefer to have both a ten inch and a twelve inch pliers in case I have to hold back a fitting.

[@RonaldDCass]

The nail set is part of my EDC. When assembling something it helps align holes for screws & bolts. The 5 inch Knipex Cobra is also my most used tool. Next is the Swiss Army knife. (My choice is the "tinkerer", a basic several functions pocket knife) a Leatherman multitool has a backup pliers to tighten bolts & also more options than the SWK. Obviously a pail is a good choice to carry the other basic, essential tools. Otherwise, a good rollup tool pouch with pockets. I like the "Bucket Boss" pail insert. I agree with everything you listed as essential to do 90%+ of general repairs. If you know specifically what needs repaired, you can add one or two things that will be needed. OOPS, Forgot the MOST IMPORTANT of all: at least one FLASHLIGHT!!! I ALWAYS have a Mini maglight flashlight in a belt pouch. Sometimes I have my folding "Icon" light as well. It has a strong magnet base that's very handy.

[@tedcentofanti4812]

As a civil construction/pipe layer we always use buckets for tools , tape measures,string lines ,hammers,pins,saws ,glues etc, keep up the good videos

[@timleduc1493]

Being retired and to an extended family the go to handyman, I love your videos. One addition a person might want to consider, which I imagine you have seen some variation of over the years. A number of years ago my wife got me a "Bucket Boss". It's a canvas bag that fits over a five gallon bucket with pockets of various sizes on the inside and outside of the bucket. It holds all the tools you were showing and keeps them a little more organized and readily available, especially the smaller ones. And it still allows the center of the bucket to hold bigger items such as the drill, hammer, etc. Duluth Trading Company still makes them and if you're looking to set up a travel package like what you showed they are worth the $20 or so. Like I said I've had mine for a long time and it still works beautifully. And no I don't have any affiliation with Duluth Trading Company, I just like their products.

[@Skanoff666]

Happy New Year! Thank you so much for offering your experience and wisdom. For the last two years, I have been learning from you all I can. Woodworking is a dying art in my country, and you offer many different insights in problem solving at the workplace. Sometimes, it's just a good wisdom for the day to keep moving and I'm glad for it. From a 38yo Brazilian man building up his living. Thank you! Bless you at EC and may fortune never cease.

[@paulgerald1985]

This video is the definition of your motto. Keep up the good work Scott!

[@rjtumble]

My dad was an electrician (IBEW) and used Klein's. He used those lineman's pliers all day every day and it was years before I knew they were linemans pliers because whenever I handed him a tool, he'd say "Go grab the kleins" and I thought that was what that type of plier was. Ditto "channellocks" had no idea that was a brand name.

[@markgallagher1376]

When I was an electrician we simply referred to them as Kleins also. It was rare to see an electrician with linesman’s pliers that were any other brand because they were the only ones that could handle the abuse we put them through.

[@johnscott2076]

Also known as 9’s in some trades

[@austinpatrick2682]

Pro here, and I still learned something. I've never seen white chalk line 🧐

[@williamsmith9026]

I've seen white lines but, that ain't it

[@albertbraun5351]

The best item here is the large steel beam he uses for a table. Every workshop needs one. I always carry a ten foot I-beam in my Geo.

[@ruidadgmailcanada8508]

That’s actually the Geo upside down. Car/mobile welding table 👍

[@grepora]

He needs to treat the rust with phosphoric acid.

[@createlovehappy]

When you talked about the hammer it reminded me of how many tools I have that were my dad’s or gpa’s, or even ones I bought new with a friend along for the ride 30 years ago. Each tool is a connection to that person and I’m filled with fond memories of them. It doesn’t make the tool work any better but it lifts my spirit and so maybe the outcome of my work is better or at least my own experience of doing it.

[@okanagan.outdoors]

Glad you mentioned the electrical tester because yes when ya need it ya need it. Also I swap the battery reverse when not using so it's ready when I do ! Should add in also just a bit of writing utensils. Pen, carpender pencil, normal pencil, sharpie, and a pad of paper. Thanks again

[@condor1200]

Older guy I work with has a bucket with a liner that fits around the outside for alot more extra storage. I always called it the Holy Pail! Always had whatever you needed in a pinch.

[@jerrodfelice7891]

I have a bucket for each type of work. One for welding, one for setting forms and rebar, etc. can't go wrong with a bucket of the right tools. Always learning something from EC!

[@TheJohn8765]

Word. Seperate buckets for seperate job types are perfect for the home-gamer. God, I wasted SO MUCH TIME as a (very) young guy trying to use the wrong tool in the wrong application. The right tool in the right space is worth a gazillion dollars.

[@steveuible5915]

Scott. Great video but I have a few additional items. I am a property manager and everyday face multiple repairs requiring a flexible tool bag. Here is what I would add: 4 screwdrivers (different sizes and types) A small bag of various screws and nails. I may not have the right one but I always find one that will work. Absolutely need a good flashlight. Absolutely need a can of multi-lube. Otherwise your list is good. I would not dream of going into a house without my tool bag. Very seldom do I need to go out to my truck and get something else.

[@-Kreger-]

I also manage properties. I use the baton 3 from Olight. Little pricey, but they fit great on the bill of a ball cap. Lights always pointed where I need it. That and a Leatherman Charge are on me daily.

[@koenbus]

One thing I always reach for in situations like this is a screwdriver handle that takes drill driver bits. It just provides a bit more finesse when having to tighten small screws. And the stubby ones are great for hard-to-reach places where a drill driver would never fit.

[@billsedutto8824]

Yes. I was waiting for a screwdriver to come out. I know he has the driver bits for the drill and something on his leatherman but it’s nice to have a standard screwdriver to use when you need it. The ones that take the bits are definitely the most compact.

[@greg8632]

Knipex has an incredibly large assortment of different types of pliers and in my experience each one is the best in its class. The twin grips, linemans pliers and water pump pliers are particularly good

[@OperationNorthwoods]

My aunt Gladys doesn't call me for minor repairs anymore because, as she exclaims, "$200/hr is ridiculous."

[@westtexasprepper]

Family is cheap! Always wanting a price break. LOL

[@ericvaughn1126]

😂👍👍

[@ddutton0]

😂😂😂

[@SmartypantsMcChicken]

For family: do it free or charge double.

[@KevinsDisobedience]

@@SmartypantsMcChicken My rule is do it for free if they would do it for you, otherwise never work for friends or family.

[@jamiecook4909]

love it love it love it - couple of observations/suggestions:: 1) small boddle of yellow glue/wood glue 2) 5 in 1 or better 3) small piece of course sandpaper preferably from belt sander 4) small pieces of finer sandpaper than 3) 5) 11 in 1 screwdriver or better 6) contractor trash bag or similar 7) napkins or paper towels kept dry 8) relatively clean cloth towel for wetting with water 9)second empty bucket nested under first for trash/water etc. 10) couple of small picks 11)) magic marker / sharpie 12) old pill bottle of assorted screws - we've all got our methods of that these things probably won't take up too much space - also small things can be grouped in ziplock bags for convenience temporarily my problem is one bucket turns into 5 etc. so please use your best judgement thank you Happy New Year!!

[@WoodworkingforAnyone]

Darn good list.

[@danielszemborski]

Fair additions, but number 9--a second empty buckect nested into the first is truly clever! Thanks.

[@herbertocobock9436]

I use that small piece from a sanding belt more than I use the belt sander on small projects.

[@obirato]

these videos are not only very informative but a real pleasure to watch. One can learn a lot with them.

[@garywithpathwayshomestead628]

I have a handyman business, my specialty is Honey do lists, I go somewhere and may fix a door, faucet,porch step,insulate a pipe, replace a smoke alarm,etc etc,i have more than 1 tool caddy that keep set up similarly.love this video

[@chrisbouchard4518]

I am a licensed electrician so I hope I’d be considered a pro and I love working out of a bucket. Everyday 8 hours a day I have my 2 gallon bucket with my tool belt apron and impact and I will never change this.

[@janderson8401]

I used to joke with electricians that they didn’t need a work van, the only tools they used were a screwdriver and linesman pliers and maybe a hacksaw if they were dealing with BX cables

[@markgallagher1376]

@@janderson8401haha, your pretty close. When doing commercial or industrial electrical work, I had a pair of Kleins, beater screwdriver, tape measure, 12” channel locks and torpedo level in my pockets at all times when on the ladder or in the lift. Of course there was some power tools involved for bending, cutting, and threading conduit also, but those basic hand tools did 95% of the work.

[@zenkenshokunin]

Well said at the end. My version; "people are treasures, money is mere currency".

[@abprice30]

My 76 year old neighbor has taught me so many things. One thing I’ve picked up from him is always packing a 5 gallon bucket when I head to do something.

[@williamsmith9026]

Buckets are tools

[@aman-fd9xx]

@@williamsmith9026 and stools.

[@PapiOshjayy]

Love your content EC but this bucket is missing some things to make it top tier. Safety glasses, work gloves, bandages (including at least one bleed stop), tweezers, and antiseptic wipes. Some items in that kit can injure you pretty badly and if you are just doing a house call you cant depend on the homeowner to have these things. Maybe the first aid stuff can live in the truck so you can have a more robust kit but the glasses and gloves definitely belong in the bucket.

[@powersww1reset]

I love how there is nothing brand new in that bucket! 👍🏼

[@tonyn3123]

I happened upon a Milwaukee Autolock 16' tape steel measure at HD a few years ago and it is the best I have ever used. "Autolock" is the key word. When you pull it out, it locks automatically rather than as most tapes require pushing the lock. To retract, just push the button. So ingenious and simple. I have always hated the tapes that require pushing the lock to hold a length! HD didn't stock it when I went back before Christmas this year to buy one for my boys and my brother. The price point was very reasonable too when I purchased mine! It is smaller and lighter than my 25' tapes and I rarely measure over 16" in my shop. I am sad I didn't buy a half-dozen back when I purchased mine. It was Imperial and not metric. I can't find them available now. But if you do, I recommend it. Thanks.

[@samuelmellars7855]

Oh hey, my dad had one of those hammers! (Or one very similar to it) It's mine now Another idea from my dad, replace the adjuster bolt from your vice-grips with an eye-bolt! Now you can clamp the vice-grips onto something, hook a come-along, ratchet-straps, a bit of string, anything really onto whatever you've clamped. He used that trick to pull and pre-tension fence wires, but it can be used for a lot of things, in a pinch. (Edit2: The eye-bolt also gives a place to hang it from, I forgot that you need to close up the vice-grips every time if you want to hang them up with no eye on the bolt!)

[@detroitfan2054]

Adjuster bolt to and eye-bolt. That's just crafty, thank you for sharing some of your father's wisdom.

[@dalecarnegie4440]

Milwaukee make vice grips with an eye-bolt, they only advertise it as a place to put a screwdriver to really tighten-em down but you're father is making me want a pair or two. I can think of many times I could have used that.

[@joshwwarren]

Wow, I've basically passed the test with my go-bag as I call it. Except carrying a saw is quite optional to me around the house, haven't really done much "go somewhere else" work. All that other stuff made it in because I realized I wind up needing half of it to do something really simple, like hang a picture, and carrying this stuff one at a time across your house as you realize you need it means more walking than doing.

[@williamsmith9026]

A relatively new item out there one might consider is at least 1 air shim.. What a game changer those things are and take very little room in the bucket. I'm sick in the head so I have 8 of them

[@tomparker5993]

One crucial item that didn't get mentioned is the charger for your cordless tools ( or make sure the bateries are full before you go). Nothing worse than getting to a job 45 minutes from home and discovering that your batteries don't hae enough juice to finish the job.

[@fatfredthe28th]

Preferably the rapid charger if your platform makes one. The dewalt one works quite well.

[@WoodworkingforAnyone]

Yeah but who would be dumb enough to forget that. I mean, you'd have to be a REAL chump. I always keep these bad boys ch....hold on this must be defective I'll be right back.

[@dantemartinez7273]

​@@fatfredthe28th i agree! Only issue ive ever experienced, is the decreased maximum charge. A standard charger, may take longer but feels like a denser charge. A rapid charger will make a big difference in time. Sometimes you just need 1 bar to finish up.

[@randompuppy789]

Clamp is a must. Use them for all sorts or stuff. An extra hand really. Great stuff. Love the channel.

[@Brian-rj5rl]

I have a bag with almost the same assortment for maintaining my rental properties. I keep my most used tools in an Occidental pocket caddy, i can hang a ceiling fan, replace a faucet or fix 90% of common house projects with it. I also carry elec tape, a few wire nuts in tape container, a roll of teflon tape, a small flat mill file, emory cloth/small square of sandpaper and sharpie in the bag.

[@BobBlarneystone]

Geo Metroi? If you have one of those still running, then you are truly a handy man. About the bucket, it's nice to have liner with pockets to keep the tools a bit more organized.

[@Fireballsocal]

Funny thing. I rarely see those running around here in Ca. till gas becomes cost prohibitive. Then it's guaranteed to see a few out and about.

[@BobBlarneystone]

@@Fireballsocal There's a Yugo running around Slippery Rock, PA. Amazing.

[@chuknduk]

Great list!! Add multimeter, 5-in-1 paint scraper and a file and I agree 💯

[@benabel]

Not only great tool advice, but some sage advice too!

[@ssmith8881]

Great Video, As usual you were spot on. I keep my tool bucket complete with organizing insert ready at all times. Grab it and go. With the organizer you can add small tools such as allen keys, flashlight, electrical tape, screw drivers, etc.

[@bjh4970]

Don’t forget about the last tool: the bucket itself!

[@Haustorium12]

quality videos from a quality person. been watching your videos off and on for a couple of years now. never any bad information....never! you fit that role that some men can fit. thank you!!!!

[@johnduffy6546]

Fantastic video! Even though we are the same age, the way you present your videos makes me remember how my grand father used to teach me so many life lessons and skills. I am proud and blessed to have some of his tools. He was a good man and, a very patient when he would teach...Your videos make my heart happy....Thank you

[@rickgilbrt]

Other essentials: A 1-inch or 1 1/4 inch flexible putty knofe, a 5-in--1 tool, and a 6-inch tape/mud knife. Narrow nose pliers and a wire stripper. Add an instrument screwdriver to thd mix. I will say that having the oscillating tool + a small box of blades, etc. takes the place of a lot of things I might have thought essemtial for cutting, grinding or sanding/shaping.

[@johnson8950]

I watched a very fine video and see many helpful comments. I would like to add mine from working with a foreman who was also a bee keeper and taught me how useful a hive tool was on a construction site.

[@TheUndertones559]

Proper wire strippers are a must. For a kit like this I'd recommend one of the combination needle nose/wire stripper pliers. Craftsman makes a solid set with pretty good bolt cutters on it as well.

[@graftedin3]

good Idea, I also like a cheap $6 pair at lows , small and compact but I have a pair of the ones you are talking about and they are a little better.

[@keithiverson6687]

The linesman pliers he shows work for rough wire stripping duties.

[@TheUndertones559]

​@@keithiverson6687 Definitely. I would just want something a bit less rough if aunt Gladys needs a light fixture in the bathroom replaced or something with lighter gauge stranded wire.

[@anandrew6641]

Thank you for a year of wholesome learning.

[@BigCatChuck]

I feel your pain, lived this life. Tired of it, got an old cargo van and filled it with packouts, but when younger would make about 4 trips to town. I had what I needed for the project, but while there, 7 other things came up. She gave me food and beers so I had to oblige. You're not off on your bucket list there. The drill and driver kits are all from the same factory, have them in Milwaukee, Dewalt, Amazon Basics, Irwin, and Makita. All the same stuff.

[@cristianstoica4544]

I 'repaired' such broken tape measure and proudly showed my father :) He was forthcoming and explained what the defect was all about.

[@grepora]

I recommend adding the tools and supplies below. adjustable wrench, 12" (for plumbing nuts) adjustable wrench, 6" (for tight spaces) allen wrenches cats paw diagonal cutters long phillips driver needle nose pliers painters scraper tool putty knife, 1" wide ratcheting screw driver with hgex bits small flat pry tool small razor blade scraper wire strippers kneeling pad: to save knees and back from pain safety glasses: to protect eyes, just in case N95 dust mask wire coat hangers : can be made into various tools: push rods, depth testing, and fashion into a hook to help extracting butterfly bolts (without losing it inside a wall) PVC pipe, 2' long 1" and 1-1/2" diameter: to tighten ro remove plastic sink nuts paracord (or 1/4" rope): to tie things together or stretch a line Liquid Wrench: to loosen frozen nuts Tool belt to hold drill, hammer, wrenches, nail pouch, etc.

[@selectooldave]

I think the rules were one bucket lol but I do agree with your list.

[@TheMrchuck2000]

Great adds.

[@Cicero71276]

What a great video. No nonsense and right down to the point. Thank you so much!

[@TomHollis-y6o]

Happy New Year, Scott! Aunt Gladys is blessed to have you for a nephew! I think I would bring two regular screwdrivers, one of each, but I don't carry a Leatherman. Maybe a small assortment of screws and/or nails too. Thanks for all you do!

[@wildbill23c]

Glad to see this one Scott. You did it with the tools you have rather than what most of these tool bucket videos are with all brand new fancy expensive tools. Use what you have. So far I have the bucket HAHA!!! Well, I have a couple with different tools in them, its nice to add a Bucket Boss Organizer, makes keeping tools more easily accessible with all the pockets and pouches they have.

[@WalterRiggs]

I never realized that about white chalk, but you're 100% correct! Thanks! Happy New Year from Lower Alabama!

[@jvin248]

Get one of those $4 Harbor Freight multi-screwdrivers that have a reversing shank with #1 and #2 philips and straight tips plus the shank those tips fit in provide hex nut drivers the perfect size of most appliances like washers/driers use. There are other brands out there if you want to be spendy. Needle nose and regular classic slip-joint pliers are handy in that bucket. Irwin is fine, lately I've picked up Tekton tools.

[@markgallagher1376]

I haven’t used the Harbor Freight multi screwdriver, but the Klein 11 in 1 in a great screwdriver and not terribly expensive.

[@michaelmeans9187]

Clamps: consider buying the Dewalt construction jack. Slim profile gets under things like appliances, has over 300 pound lifting capacity, one handed use. The other advantage is that the handle faces up, so you can use your foot to jack something up while your hands steady the load.

[@ronmcrae7216]

Those are really handy

[@fatfredthe28th]

Those are great tools. I have the Irwin model, but wish I had the DeWalt model as the trigger function is a better design. For clamps with spreading option, I use Jorgensen brand. Well made and and smooth operation.

[@bushmanontwowheels]

This isn’t just for Aunt Gladys calls, that bucket contains a reasonable number of items every homeowner should have at home ❤

[@josh857]

If you are wanting a level for a bucket or tool box like this I suggest getting one of the small square digital ones. They aren’t the best for long distance accuracy but they are really small, accurate and extremely handy for 90% of any home repair jobs or light duty maintenance jobs

[@ciphercode2298]

Im no expert,and in fact would struggle to call myself a diyer,but when things need done ive always researched and tried to find the best way to do things myself. Ive tiled floors,drywalled,built some cabinets, little plumbing,little electrical,siding,installed doors. I find that most things are a matter of how willing you are to try. Some people are paralyzed by the fear of failure or it not turning out perfect. Neither my tilework nkr my drywall turned out perfect,but im not ashamed of them either. Ive seen much worse floor tile at retail stores and businesses, and slighty flawed drywall is eady enough to fix or conceal. At least i did it and learned. My advice to anyone is to first know your limitations and accept them,read books containing material on your subject,watch multiple videos online and use a culmination of other peoples experiences and see what applies to your situation. My Achilles heal is heights. Im not the guy for roofing or painting eaves,but other than that im willing to learn.

[@Jim-vi4hh]

Great video. I hope Stanley and other manufacturers are seeing this video. It would be nice if they assembled tools of reasonable quality in a starter kit in a canvas bag for new renters and homeowners rather than the current offerings that offers toy tools and adds 100 pieces of odd tools or hardware to make it seem like a deal. We can buy allen wrenches, screws, nails and drywall anchors separately. Socket sets and wrenches for mechanical applications can be provided as a separate set.

[@brianl2655]

Amazing video, I had to add a few extra tools to my go to bucket as well. One thing I would add, would be a bucket tool organizer, to optimize space and makes the tools more accessible.

[@cingred13]

A great list of tools for the average fixer. I have opted over the years to go with as few electric tools as possible depending on the job. With large jobs having a circular saw and electric drills etc, are invaluable. But for small jobs.... brace and bit or small hand drill, hand saw etc, are handy. Then you are not having to take cords, batteries and the like. Every job is different but knowing a little about what your getting into can help you plan for success.

[@timothyfisher6227]

Love your videos Mr.Scott. 43 years retired military taught me alot also& still working for a living on base maintenance plus world wide deployments,& life in general.Stay ready so you will b ready one of my instructors told me.Makes sense huh,lol.Happy New Year Mister,and Thanks again for the great videos!

[@meirionevans5137]

My bucket is a flat tray with a central handle. Same content as yours, plus a mag tray of odd screws, small machine bolts, brackets. I wonder if our Aunts are related too? Irwin have a range of the clamps you mention. HNY!

[@jrpefx]

Happy New Year, you have described the basic tools that I carried for forty one years in the Motion Picture and Television Industry as a Special Effects Person. Take care and stay well.

[@johnrosier1686]

Thanks for this video. I keep a bag of tools handy for these types of occasions.

[@bradvanwolde4970]

Love your for your old time world thining. I'm 59. Remember we can always be educated, no matter what age is. Be humble and smile. Thank you for your educated videos. Have a awesome New Year.

[@dannydore8038]

Thank you, Scott, for this channel. I've been watching your videos for the last few weeks, and they're some of the best on KZbin. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@Elkadetodd]

FLASHLIGHT! I like a little AA with a reversible clip, because you can put it on your ball cap as a headlamp too. It's in my pocket next to my multi-tool every day. (Olight I3T for $20 isn't bad. Nitecore MT1A pro is better for $40 - brighter, comes with a rechargeable lithium ion or can use an AA in a pinch)

[@graftedin3]

Yes, when doing wiring the lights are usually off.

[@Markie051]

As a Union Ironworker a lot of guys use the bigger buckets the bolts come in as our “tool bucket”. I put a bunch of stickers on it and I use a step bit to drill out the sides and choose the diameter of whatever size rope I choose to use at my carry handle. Also keep the lids it makes it waterproof, Don’t underestimate the buckets!!

[@michaelbuckley8977]

2 things, if your saw isn’t cordless don’t forget the extension cord and that 5 gallon bucket is a great tool also

[@tag180rotax]

My stud finder is accurate to +/- 9"

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

Wise words from everybody's favorite dad.

[@jamesfriesen9633]

Also throw in tuck tape, electrical tape, several sizes of deck screws, safety goggles, dust mask, ear plugs, garbage bags, and a small shop vac.

[@instantsiv]

If you’re using your vehicle to travel to these repairs also remember that you should keep a tool box in your vehicle with some simple mechanical type tools. So for most cases it’s tool box + bucket of tools.

[@davidossinger8183]

Great assortment! The bucket itself is handy for draining plumbing lines, mixing plaster etc.

[@StonesAndSand]

Cool. Now do something similar for your shop by putting similar tools on a roll-about cart. You can easily move it where it's needed, and you'll save a lot of walking across your shop. It's a total game changer.

[@Caffeinated-Neanderthal]

My sisters first car was a geo metro, I can confirm the bucket would’ve fit. the mechanic looked it over when she bought it and said “well, if it breaks down you can put it in your back pocket and bring it back here”

[@charomorris]

bucket or small toolboxes setup to be a "grab and go" to help yourself and others is an awesome concept. looking forward to the comments and future videos on this idea

[@plamenpetrov304]

Happy new year to all of you! Have a great year!

[@RobHendricks-r1u]

My bucket contains all those things you have shown along with a file , magnetic pickup tool and needle nose pliers . Oh and golf clubs because that bucket gets to work so fast Aunty will be saying “ Its so nice to see you . I wish you could stay longer . I hate to be a bother but you have become such a good worker . I remember the time back when you were just a little helper. Well you and your dad set off to fix a …… ( three hours later )…….. and I laughed and laughed . You’re such a good boy !”