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8.0 ESSENTIAL TOOLS - DO-IT-YOURSELF - DIY TOOLS YOU CAN RELY ON

I believe that a good tool set will pay for itself many times over. Knowing how to use tools also gives you a sense of satisfaction and a good deal of independence. Unlike many purchases, tools should last you a life time. You can even leave them to your children or grandchildren!

I put this list together and then went over it with Harry Lewis III who is a machinist and a pilot. His father and grandfather both worked extensively with tools. While this list might seem obvious, it took a good deal of thought to pare down all the possible tools to the essential few. Harry and I decided that this minimal collection of tools would do most jobs around the house and handle most emergencies. In addition many can do several jobs in a pinch; for example, a hacksaw which is normally used to cut metal can be used to cut wood.

Many tools are guaranteed for life such as the Craftsman tools by Sears. Harry Lewis has quality tools that his grandfather bought many years ago; he finds that he often prefers these. I have tools that are 30 years old and they continue to work as new.

We recommend that you buy the best. Look for a well designed handle and grip and the best steel. Instead of buying them all at one time, you could purchase each one as needed. Even if it is expensive, you will never be sorry. When you own a set of tools, it is amazing how often you use them.

Avoid premade tool sets. These often include gizmos you have no need of and a tool box that may force you to organize tools in a way you don't like.

There are a surprising number of choices among tools, even hammers. Before you buy I suggest that you put the tool in your hand. Get a feel for the weight and the balance. If possible try it out. For example among claw hammers there are ones with metal handles and a foam grip or ones with wood handles; you can get the same hammers in different weights such as 16 oz., 18 oz. or 20 oz.

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