Having a toolbox should be a government-mandated requirement for every homeowner. Sure, you don’t want to tamper with things you don’t understand but are you going to call a serviceman to help you hang a picture on the wall or replace a light bulb? There are some things that you’re supposed to do on your own and it is also quite important that you have the right tools to help you out. The problem with completing a toolbox lies in the fact that there’s no such thing as a standard. There are, however, items that you can usually find in the toolbox of any home. Here are a couple of such items that you should definitely pick up when trying to assemble a perfect toolbox.
1. Picking screwdrivers
The two most iconic hand tools you’ll need are claw hammers and screwdrivers. Now, while picking a claw hammer is fairly easy, when it comes to screwdrivers, you’ll need to get a whole set. While you should never attempt electrical repairs on your own, it’s always better to buy insulated screwdrivers. For those who are interested in optimizing their use of space, getting a bit holder with adjustable bits is the best way to go. Nonetheless, individual screwdrivers have their advantages. First of all, they can be used simultaneously. Second, they have a greater reach. Finally, they’re far more stable for use.
2. Buy the box
In order to make a toolbox, you might need to buy an actual box quite early on. Why? Well, because this is the best way to see the available amount of space that you have available – in person. What does this mean? Second, if you expect to move your toolbox on a regular basis, it would help out quite a bit if you were to buy a toolbox that can fit your trunk. Some, prefer to buy an aluminium toolbox that they can mount on the trunk of their truck. This way, they get much higher mobility for their projects. Either way, after you get the box, you have a great starting point.
3. The pliers
Another thing you need to pick for your toolbox is the perfect pliers. There are a couple of things you need to consider here. For instance, for light-duty jobs, you can go for slip-joint pliers. Tongue-and grove pliers provide an incredible holding power, especially for a tool that’s so versatile and adjustable. Remember that learning how to pick the pliers serves as only a part of your job. You also need to learn how to use them properly. These two requirements, however, are often quite tightly intertwined. Watching a tutorial or two on how to use them can also help you learn what you’re looking for.
4. Flashlight
Make no mistake, you’ll often have to use your toolbox in low-visibility conditions, which is why a flashlight is one of the first things you want. First of all, you want a flashlight with a suitable lumen output. For your toolbox, beam distance shouldn’t matter that much. The durability of the flashlight is also quite important and you want to go for something rechargeable. Remember, the budget and budgeting limitations are incredibly important, as well. So, make a shortlist of priority features, make a list of suitable flashlights and pick one that fits into your toolbox budget.
5.Claw hammer
Picking a claw hammer is incredibly important, especially since this choice is not that simple either. First of all, you need to get the right type. For instance, you have a chasing hammer, body mechanic’s hammer, welder’s hammer, Lineman’s hammer, and brick hammer. The so-called brick hammer is especially popular in construction work and its claw is specially designed to break bricks in two (for scenarios where you have to add half-a-brick). Naturally, for your household, this won’t be that useful. Instead, you need a regular 16 Oz claw hammer.
6. Tape measure
The next thing you need is a tape measure. Depending on what you’re looking for, you may find a fabric tape measure, pocket tape measure (the standard one, with a spring return), or a surveyor measure (long tape). The pocket tape measure is the simplest, most compact, and the most cost-effective. Now, in today’s day and age, you can also download an app like Quick Measure but having a regular tape measure in your toolbox is always better. First of all, you don’t rely on your battery or the availability of your phone. Second, it’s a more traditional way to complete your toolbox.
In conclusion
The last thing you need to keep in mind is the fact that you don’t have to complete your toolbox right away. There’s nothing preventing you from going to the hardware store and picking up a single claw hammer. In fact, this is something that might make things a lot easier on your budget (picking up these items one by one). Nonetheless, if you intend to do any DIY projects in the nearest future, it would be best to just make a list and make this one-time investment. Later, you can enjoy knowing you have a complete set and just forget about it.
