16 Essential Hand Tools Every DIY Homeowner Needs
Repairing a leaky faucet? Replacing a door hinge? Here are 16 essential hand tools that will make the job easier and help you get the job done right the first time. No Bull.
Whether you’re hanging a picture frame, fixing a leaky faucet, or assembling furniture, having the right tools makes all the difference between a successful DIY project and a frustrating experience. Every homeowner needs a basic toolkit that can use for common repairs and small improvement projects around the house.
Building your first hand tool collection doesn’t have to be expensive or buying every gadget on the market. Focus on versatile, quality hand tools that serve multiple purposes and have the durability to last. The key is understanding which tools you need to handle normal everyday repairs. In this guide we break down the must-have hand tools into three essential categories. These 16 tools will help you build a practical toolkit that handle 90% of common household tasks. We’ll cover everything from basic measuring tools, to hammers and screwdrivers, plus answer the most common questions about building your first tool collection.
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Here is what you will find in our Blog: 15 Essential Hand Tools Every DIY Homeowner Needs. We provide images of the tools we use and links to where you can purchase the 16 Essential hand tools.
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Measuring Tools: Get it Right the First Time
Accurate measurements are essential to every successful DIY project. As my father used to say, “measure twice, cut once”.
The saying “Measure twice, cut once” is a classic adage that has been passed down through the ages and is still relevant today. It is a reminder to take the time to double-check measurements and ensure accuracy before taking any irreversible actions. In the context of carpentry, it means that a carpenter should measure a piece of wood twice before cutting it to ensure that the cuts are accurate. (source: Ravi Sawhney, Founder and CEO, RKS Design, “Measure Twice, Cut Once) 1/9/23)
Tape Measure
A quality tape measure is your most important measuring tool. Look for a 25-foot model with a sturdy case, easy-to-read markings, and a reliable lock mechanism. The tape should have a reinforced end hook that doesn’t loosen up after repeated use. You’ll use this for everything from measuring furniture spaces, determining lumber lengths to measuring windows for curtains and blinds.
Don’t skimp on a good quality tape measure, it is one of the most important tools in your DIY Tool Kit.
Level
A good level prevents crooked picture frames and ensures shelves sit straight. A 24-inch level works well for most household tasks, while a smaller torpedo level fits in tight spaces. Digital levels offer enhanced precision, but a traditional bubble level serves most homeowners perfectly.
Modern levels often include magnetic edges for working with metal surfaces and multiple bubble vials for checking both horizontal and vertical alignment. Make sure you have a good level for your tool kit.
Screwdrivers
Flat head screwdriver and Phillips head screwdriver sets need to be in every DIY tool kit. Consider purchasing a multi-bit screwdriver with interchangeable heads to save space and money. Quality screwdrivers have comfortable grips – hang on tight, don’t lose your grip – and tips that won’t strip screws easily.
You’ll use these constantly for electrical outlet covers, furniture assembly, appliance repairs, and cabinet hardware. Magnetic tips help hold screws when you are working in hard-to-reach places. There are speciality precision screw drivers used for precise work such as electronic, phone, eye glasses and other delicate repairs. If you have a need, you will find a screwdriver for just about anything you work on.
Wrenches
A special note about wrenches: Buy wrench sets that include both metic and ASO sizes. Especially if you intend to work on vehicles and in-home projects. Older hand-me down wrenches your grandfather your grandfather gave you are usually just standard size, you should consider adding metric wrench sets to your tool kit.
Socket Wrench
Socket wrench set with both metric and standard sizes will fit most bolt and nut options you will have to work with. A good socket set includes a ratcheting handle and various socket sizes from 1/4 inch to 1 inch, plus common metric equivalents.
Open-Ended Wrenches
Open-ended wrenches work where sockets won’t fit. A basic set covering common sizes (8mm to 19mm and 5/16 to 3/4 inch) handles most situations. Choose a set that keeps all sizes organized and easy to store.
Must Own Tools recommends buying combo metric and ASO sized open ended wrench sets. You will be ready for any home or auto repair. Metric sizing is becoming the norm and you don’t want to be caught flat footed with the wrong wrench sizes.
Crescent Wrenches
An adjustable wrench (also called a crescent wrench) can be adjusted to various nut and bolt sizes. A 10-inch Crescent wrench fits most household applications and works especially well for plumbing tasks.
Allen Wrenches
Designed for smooth operation for extended use, putting pre-made furniture together, as well as other Do It Yourself projects. We suggest a folding Allen Wrench Set that has a variety of sizes, in Metric or standard SAE sizing. Great for working on bikes, children’s toys, electronics and other projects.
Hammer
A hammer remains one of the most versatile tools in your arsenal. A 16-ounce claw hammer strikes the perfect balance between power and control. The claw end removes nails and provides leverage for various tasks. Look for a hammer with a comfortable grip that reduces vibration, and feels well balanced in your hand.
Pliers
Standard pliers provide general gripping power when you need to pull something or turn it. Wire cutters (often built into pliers) handle electrical work and cable management. Having both needle-nose pliers and standard pliers covers most gripping and cutting needs around the house.
Needle Nose Pliers
Needle-nose pliers excel at gripping small objects, bending wire, and reaching into tight spaces.
Vice Grip Pliers
Vice Grip pliers adjust to grip various sizes and they “lock in place” preventing slipping. They are a great wrench for grabbing stripped screw or bolt heads.
Wire Cutters
Dedicated wire cutters provide clean cuts on electrical wire and cable. While some pliers include cutting edges, standalone wire cutters offer superior precision for electrical work and cable management projects.
Cutting Tools: Shape and Size Materials
Cutting tools help you cut materials to fit, vinyl flooring, carpeting, tape, sand paper, the list of items a good sharp cutting tools can be used on goes on and on. In todays world of shipments to your house they can help you open packages safely.
Utility Knife
A sharp utility knife (also called a knife cutter) handles countless cutting tasks from opening packages to scoring drywall. Choose a model with a retractable blade and easy blade replacement system. Keep extra blades on hand since sharp blades are safer to use and more efficient than dull ones.
Safety features like blade guards and secure locking mechanisms prevent accidents. Some models include storage for spare blades in the handle.
Tool Storage
A carry case or tool bag will keep your hand tools organized and portable. Hard cases protect tools better but add weight, while soft tool bags offer easier transport and storage. Choose a carry case that fits your space and transportation needs.
Consider magnetic tool holders for metal tools and pegboard systems for workshop storage. Good organization saves time and prevents tool loss.
Safety Gear is a must have on every DIY job
Safety Glasses
Look for a safety glass that is constructed to meet or exceed ANSI Z87.1 standards, with a material that is designed to protect against high-velocity debris. Must Own Tools recommends wide angle wrap around lenses that are made with an anti-scratch coating with distortion free viewing. If you require a prescription, we recommend speaking with your eye-care professional.
Safety Gloves
What type of safety glove you need depends on the job are preparing to work on. Some jobs require a nitrile coating (projects working with wet and harmful materials). While others only require a general utility glove. If your job requires working with knives or other sharp objects it might be beneficial to consider a cut resistant work glove.
Should I buy expensive hand tools or will less expensive hand tools work?
Quality matters more than price, but expensive doesn’t always mean better. Focus on tools with solid construction, comfortable grips, and good warranties. Mid-range tools often provide the best value for homeowners. Avoid the cheapest options that may break quickly, but don’t feel pressured to buy premium professional-grade tools unless you’ll use them frequently.
Should I buy all of these tools as a kit, or purchase them one at a time?
Tool kits offer convenience and cost savings, but may include tools you don’t need while missing others you do. Start with a basic kit covering the most common tools, then add specialized tools as specific projects require them. You don’t want to over-buy but ensures you have the tools you need for your current project.
I have a bunch of hand-me-down tools, are these ok to use or should I buy all new tools?
Vintage tools often feature superior construction compared to modern budget options. Inspect inherited tools for rust, damaged handles, or worn cutting edges. Many older tools just need cleaning and minor repairs to perform excellently. Replace tools with safety issues like cracked handles or damaged surfaces, well-maintained hand me down tools can serve you for decades.
Are there any special storage instructions for hand tools?
Keep tools clean and dry to prevent rust and corrosion. Store cutting tools with blade guards or in protective sheaths to keep them sharp and safe. You don’t want to go searching through your tool box and accidentally get cut on a sharp tool.
Organize tools logically so you can find what you need quickly. Climate-controlled storage prevents moisture damage, especially important for precision measuring tools. Apply light oil to metal surfaces in humid environments.
Do I really need gloves and safety glasses?
When working with tools alway remember: “SAFETY FIRST”
Conclusion: 16 Hand Tools you should have in your DIY tool kit
Quality hand tools will help you complete successful DIY projects and home maintenance. Focus on versatile tools that handle multiple tasks rather than single-purpose gadgets. As your skills and project complexity grow, you can add specialized tools to complement this essential collection.Remember that good tools last for decades when properly maintained. Invest in quality basics now, and they’ll serve you through countless projects ahead.
Must Own Tools mission stands on these two foundations: 1. Safety First and 2. No Bull.
We believe every DIY project, should focus on a “SAFETY FIRST” plan. If you are uncomfortable undertaking the job or are not interested in learning how to do the job safely, DON’T DO IT! Hire a professional.
Our goal in everything we do is based on a “NO BULL” strategy. If we can’t speak about a job with the confidence we can do the job ourselves, with the tools we are recommending, we won’t post it. NO BULL.