How to Outfit a Basic Toolbox

You have a bright and shiny new toolbox and you look like a pro - what should you put in it? Decide what your budget will allow you to get and begin with the basics.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring Tapes
• Utility Knives
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• Adjustable Wrenches
• Combination Squares
• Coping Saws
• Drill Bits
• Flashlights
• Hacksaws
• Hammers
• Handsaws
• Jewelers Screwdriver Sets
• Keyhole Saw
• Levels
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Nut Drivers
• Slip Joint
• Slotted Screwdrivers
• Tool Chests
• Variable-speed Drills
• Drill Bits
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Flashlights
• Hammers

1. 

   Start with a pair of safety glasses or goggles, and wear them whenever you do any job that could result in bits of solid or liquid material flying into your face.

2. 

   Look for a good-quality 16-oz. claw hammer.

3. 

   Pick up a utility knife and extra blades.

4. 

   Find a good tape measure - at least 12 feet, but preferably longer.

5. 

   Stock up on tapes: duct, electrical and plumbing.

6. 

   Outfit yourself with a set of pliers, including at least one set of needle nose and possibly a set of vise grips.

7. 

   Stick a flashlight in your toolbox.

8. 

   Consider several types of wrenches, depending on the kinds of projects you'll be doing. An adjustable wrench is a must, and a crescent wrench comes in handy. Allen wrenches are useful too.

9. 

   Locate a good level and a 12-inch square.

10. Think about the types of saws that you might use: keyhole, coping, hack, hand.

11. Get a good set of screwdrivers, both standard and Phillips. Also look at a set of nut drivers and maybe a set of jeweler's screwdrivers depending on the detail of your projects.

12. Get drill bits that will fit your drill.

13. Finish up with assorted hardware that will always come in handy - washers, nuts, bolts, screws, nails.

on 11/22/2005 Quality tools usually have been tested by their manufacturers and offer better safety features. When buying tools, always think safety first and spend the extra dollars to buy quality, safer tools. They usually last longer, too.

on 11/22/2005 A small level is nice to have when you're hanging shelves, towel racks and pictures.

on 11/22/2005 Cresent is a company that makes tools and most know for the adjustable wrench..many people call the adjustable wrench a "cresent" wrench..

on 11/22/2005 Safety goggles or glasses should always be used when hammering, drilling, sawing or centerpunching anything.

on 11/22/2005 An awl (similar to an ice pick) and/or center punch. I prefer an awl and a springloaded center punch.