Does a total novice need Snapon tools?

[diesel research]

The multidriver was mentioned in the surprisingly affordable snapon thread!

http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=93926

 

[route246]

I think you and I are in a somewhat similar demographic and situation. I tend to over-buy things for quality because I don't like to buy things twice. I don't buy for pretentious reasons because almost none of my friends, family or colleagues knows about my tool sickness.

All of the advice here is good. Personally, if I were starting out re-outfitting my rig I would do the following.

First, I would look for a Craftsman mechanic's set that met my requirements. I would budget anywhere from $300 up to maybe $1000 if I wanted to get bigger sizes in the set.

Second, do a search on 'klein 80141' and take a look at their 41-piece journeyman tool set. It complements any CM mechanic's set quite nicely without too much overlap. See attached photo.

Then, I'd get a nice drill and impact driver set (DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, etc.) that meets your requirements in terms of size and power. The latest lower voltage (10-12V) Li-Ion sets are pretty powerful for their size and weight and perfect for most homeowner applications. You will love the impact driver if you don't already have one.

 

[Hermit]

I should take a picture of the toolbox I gave my Mother for Christmas. It's a small hand carry box stocked with the tools she needs most often around the house.

It's stocked with a few screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, socket set with ratchet and drive handle, adjustable wrenches, dykes, tape measures, allen keys, and a razor knife.

that sounds like a good set for around the house but you forgot about the Duct tape.

 

[countryroad82]

Here is my opinion, buy a 150-250 piece set of Craftsman tools like many others have said. My box at work is.... Heaven forbid...... a Craftsman, filled with many Craftsman tools. I do everything from working on trucks, lawnmowers, fabrication, whatever and the Craftsman tools have gotten the job done. At my home shop (bodyshop) I have a little of everything, but primarily Craftsman. I do have SO ratchets, and that was a recent upgrade in the past couple years, before I used Performance Tool ratchets (cheap Tiawanese but very nice, I still use them) but that was sort of my way of giving myself something really nice. I would rather be able to buy larger equipment for the same price as a basic set of SO tools would cost, but that is my preference. I do insist on good screwdrivers, my favorites are SK, but I think Craftsman Professionals would probably be nice, and they would be far easier to warranty. I am not knocking any of the truck brands, just if you are not going to be using your tools on a daily basis I would see not reason to spend around 3-4 grand on a basic set that can be had for 500 bucks new. Anyway regardless of what everyone says, it is your decision on what you buy.

 

[sberry]

I like the Klien journeyman set, well thought out. About the only thing a home type might not need is the cable cutter but a creative guy could possibly find use for that. I agree with the craftsman set and that, pliers, screwdrivers are hard use tools, cheap side cutters have their place but dont last, they are disposable to some extent. Add a 10mm nut driver to the set.
I think route 246 has it nailed, pretty practical and covers the well used stuff.

 

[route246]

Yeah, thanks. The other thing I forgot about is a few good pipe wrenches. Those always come in handy when you need them the most. There are other things like a butane soldering gun, a propane torch, etc. but those can be acquired as you need them.

I like the Klien journeyman set, well thought out. About the only thing a home type might not need is the cable cutter but a creative guy could possibly find use for that. I agree with the craftsman set and that, pliers, screwdrivers are hard use tools, cheap side cutters have their place but dont last, they are disposable to some extent. Add a 10mm nut driver to the set.
I think route 246 has it nailed, pretty practical and covers the well used stuff.

 

[saturdaymechanic]

A ChannelLock pliers set would last a lifetime and handle most homeowner duties. They are tough and get the job done. Plus they are USA.

 

[sk farmer]

I think you and I are in a somewhat similar demographic and situation. I tend to over-buy things for quality because I don't like to buy things twice. I don't buy for pretentious reasons because almost none of my friends, family or colleagues knows about my tool sickness.

All of the advice here is good. Personally, if I were starting out re-outfitting my rig I would do the following.

First, I would look for a Craftsman mechanic's set that met my requirements. I would budget anywhere from $300 up to maybe $1000 if I wanted to get bigger sizes in the set.

Second, do a search on 'klein 80141' and take a look at their 41-piece journeyman tool set. It complements any CM mechanic's set quite nicely without too much overlap. See attached photo.

Then, I'd get a nice drill and impact driver set (DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, etc.) that meets your requirements in terms of size and power. The latest lower voltage (10-12V) Li-Ion sets are pretty powerful for their size and weight and perfect for most homeowner applications. You will love the impact driver if you don't already have one.

in all truthfullness with just a small 3/8 socket set of standard and metric sizes plus wrenches up to 3/4 and 19mm you could do one hell of a lot of projects. i could never figure out why craftsman did not take one of those sub 100 dollar sets, add 3 or 4 pliers, a hammer, more than a couple wrenhes in small sizes, a small set of punch/chisels, some real screwdrivers (not the cheap handle and 47 bits) and then put it in a case that would have a spot for a few other things such as some extra hardware, a roll of tape or a small pry bar, etc. i know of very few jobs were the only tool required is a ratchet and socket. even if the price doubled i think it would still sell.

 

[mrpowderkeg]

If you don't need a lot, and you are not going to be wrenching all the time, you can get by with a basic generic set. I'll admit it, I have the set listed below, it's got your basic socket set, wrenches, pliers, snips, screwdrivers, etc... it's imported but it's better than nothing. I actually have this same set in my race trailer, it sees track use and salvage yard use, and I have pulled engines with this set, and a crescent wrench. If I loose a piece I don't care, it's not my "good" tools. The one area that I think most quality tool manufactures are loosing out on is making a quality "set" that comes in a convenient set that a person can throw behind the seat of their truck.
http://www.cooperhandtools.com/brands/CF_Files/model_detail.cfm?upc=037103200525

It's 85 bucks at amazon http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HZODZQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[LincolnCont.]

Yes, Snap On is a must especially if you will most likely never use them(that way they stay super shiny and look extra impressive to guests). Go to your banker immediatley and take out a 50,000 dollar loan for tools, if you're not sure what to buy just wire me the cash and I will personally buy you all the decoration chrome you don't need. I promise I won't keep any of the money for myself.

 

[route246]

There are times when I really need a 1/2" set. Not as often as 3/8" or 1/4" but when I'm working on my vehicles and require more torque there is no way a 3/8" set is going to cut it.

in all truthfullness with just a small 3/8 socket set of standard and metric sizes plus wrenches up to 3/4 and 19mm you could do one hell of a lot of projects. i could never figure out why craftsman did not take one of those sub 100 dollar sets, add 3 or 4 pliers, a hammer, more than a couple wrenhes in small sizes, a small set of punch/chisels, some real screwdrivers (not the cheap handle and 47 bits) and then put it in a case that would have a spot for a few other things such as some extra hardware, a roll of tape or a small pry bar, etc. i know of very few jobs were the only tool required is a ratchet and socket. even if the price doubled i think it would still sell.

 

[sk farmer]

There are times when I really need a 1/2" set. Not as often as 3/8" or 1/4" but when I'm working on my vehicles and require more torque there is no way a 3/8" set is going to cut it.

just to set the record straight. i made thaqt comment and meant with a basic 3/8 drive set and the basic wrenches along with the klein set you could do a lot. i did not say you could do everthing but you would be set for "most" jobs. not all of them but a lot of them.

 

[dwiggins]

My head just exploded.

I read your garage build thread a week or so ago, and now you're asking about getting a starter tool kit?

Cognitive....dissonance....overload!!

You don't NEED Snap-on. However, one could make the argument that anything but a full fancy set of SO wouldn't look right in that garage-mahal you're building.

For the record, I work on my BMW with a kit that's 95+% Craftsman. I have a few Snap-On things that I either received as gifts or picked up used for short money.

 

[BHR4CE1]

For the record, I work on my BMW with a kit that's 95+% Craftsman. I have a few Snap-On things that I either received as gifts or picked up used for short money.

I don't work on my cars. I wouldn't even know how to do that honestly. I guess I am not very mechanically inclined. Besides..I'm sure I would void the warrantee if I even touched them. I can't even do the one thing I do know how to do anymore...check the oil.


Weird fact...My BMW's don't even have traditional dipsticks under the hood. To check the oil level, you have to go into the "service" section of the iDrive. I would much rather have a traditional dipstick.

 

[BHR4CE1]

Yes, Snap On is a must especially if you will most likely never use them(that way they stay super shiny and look extra impressive to guests). Go to your banker immediatley and take out a 50,000 dollar loan for tools, if you're not sure what to buy just wire me the cash and I will personally buy you all the decoration chrome you don't need. I promise I won't keep any of the money for myself.

WOW, great advice. I only wish you had posted sooner. It would have saved me a ton of time!

 

[diesel research]

Here is a way to start:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001NQQCC/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/tools.asp?tool=hand&Group_ID=21405&store=snapon-store

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000224JE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://grip-on.com/

 

[powertrip]

The lift is so I can raise the cars if I want to give them a quick detail without having to bend down to do the lower sides and wheels/tires. I have a screwed up back and the lift will help a lot. All my cars come with full service plans and I usually trade them in before it ends, so I have no business working on them even if I did have a clue what to do (which I don't). I'd probably do way more damage than good!

Yet another reason craftsman will be more than adaquate

 

[Shadowdog500]

You dont need snap on tools, Crafstman will probably fit the bill for your needs.

However, Snap on is a much higher quality tool, and it sounds like you are at the point in your life that you can afford to buy the best if you desire to do so, and a few hundred dollars extra is not going to make much of an impact in your life. Tools are a lifetime purchace, If treated properly, you will have them for the rest of your life. If you are only getting a wrench set and some screwdrivers and a socket set, I would say what the hell go get the Snap-On stuff, you will only be out an extra few hundred dollars and you will have them for the rest of your life.

Chris

 

[diesel research]

Yet another reason craftsman will be more than adaquate

My guess is, if he wanted adequate (sometimes barely) he wouldn't have built his dream garage and own multiple bmws. Just like larry_g alluded to.


If he wants quality and something to be proud of, why try so adamantly to bash them or talk him out of quality tools in general?

Will it personally affect you negatively if he buys something better quality and doesn't NEED it? Does it make you jealous? Hurts your feelings?

__________________

There are a few times I'd mention other brands. That's when they are the OE who builds the tool for them, or when they build something which is actually better. it's true, they don't build all of their own tools, and not all of the tools they build are actually the "best". Then there are a few things which they may not even sell regardless who manufactured it.

 

[BHR4CE1]

After careful consideration...I have decided to (and already begun to) purchase Knipex, SnapOn and Wera tools for my initial collection. Thanks to many members here (via this thread and PM's) i have really narrowed my choices down and have really admired the quality of the tools that have arrived so far. I can see the quality compared to the few tools I already owned. I am really impressed with the Were screwdriver handles. It is amazing how well they feel in your hand compared to the old screwdrivers I just boxed up and gave to some friends.

I thank all of you guys again for your comments and insight. I'm trying not to go too crazy buying tools right now, but I wanted to get a nice basic collection to start me off. As time progresses, and I get more familiar with what is out there and what my needs will be, I will undoubtedly be spending a lot of time at the Snapon Website!

 

[BHR4CE1]

Here is a way to start:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001NQQCC/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Thank you for the recommendation, Diesel. I actually purchased some of those screwdrivers the other day and WOW! They sure are nice. I never really gave much thought to something as simple as a screwdriver until I had those in my hand. Hard to explain, but kinda makes you feel stronger than you are when you are turning a screw. My hand feels like the grip was made personally for me!

 

[Shadowdog500]

I started slowly replacing my Craftsman tools with Snap-On a few years ago. Chasing down the truck is a pain. I found a Snap-On dealer that lived in my area and knocked on his door and introduced myself. He gave me a catalog and his card, and we now have an arangment that If I need something I call his cell and Meet him after dinner at his house.

It also gives you a relationship with a particular Snao-On guy because if you chase down trucks you may be dealing with a different person every time and never build up a personal relationship.

Chris

 

[BHR4CE1]

Are the truck prices the same as the website prices when it comes to Snapon?

 

[diesel research]

Thank you for the recommendation, Diesel. I actually purchased some of those screwdrivers the other day and WOW! They sure are nice. I never really gave much thought to something as simple as a screwdriver until I had those in my hand. Hard to explain, but kinda makes you feel stronger than you are when you are turning a screw. My hand feels like the grip was made personally for me!

This is exactly what I spoke of earlier, actually getting enjoyment from using your tools. Strange but true. Many screw drivers can unscrew a screw, but the right one just makes the task more pleasant.

Many of snapon hard handle fans feel a similar joy. I can tell you that tiny prybar is a joy to use on SO many things that need a little persuasion. It just feels right.

The wright brand ratchets will likely give you that kind of feeling.

Truck prices can be more/less/the same as website.

Never marked as more, but some may charge interest or sales tax. Sometimes a discount is available, don't count on it. Often times it is the same.

 

[CD1]

Craftsman USA made will suffice for most of your needs. Duralast, Taiwan made, will also work just fine and will cost less. Let the flames begin.

 

[copterdoctor]

I recommend you buy some mid level tools, ie, craftsman and husky... why you may ask? because you said it yourself, you don't work on cars, and don't even know what size of ratchet you have, so there's absolutely NO need for you to have the snapon quality tools. husky and craftsman will get the job done just as well as snapon for the jobs it sounds like you're going to be working on.
there are tool collectors, then there are tool USERS.... both have their reasons for buying high grade tools. most users buy them because it may speed up their job, or because they've been doing it long enough they know that "this socket" has a thinner wall, and can just squeeze into where they need it.

I work on multi million dollar aircraft every day. I'd say about 50% of my tools are high end snapon, matco, etc... the other half, are just mid level tools.
as you do more and more work, you'll learn what you REALLY need to spend the big bucks on, and what you don't.
Like I said, unless you're "collecting" tools, I'd save my money if I were you.

 

[copterdoctor]

oh, almost forgot, I've had to "modify" a lot of tools for specific jobs... it's much easier taking a torch to a $20 tool vs a $200 tool....

 

[powertrip]

My guess is, if he wanted adequate (sometimes barely) he wouldn't have built his dream garage and own multiple bmws. Just like larry_g alluded to.


If he wants quality and something to be proud of, why try so adamantly to bash them or talk him out of quality tools in general?

Will it personally affect you negatively if he buys something better quality and doesn't NEED it? Does it make you jealous? Hurts your feelings?

__________________

There are a few times I'd mention other brands. That's when they are the OE who builds the tool for them, or when they build something which is actually better. it's true, they don't build all of their own tools, and not all of the tools they build are actually the "best". Then there are a few things which they may not even sell regardless who manufactured it.

Wow.. you. Sure are confrontational. You must sit and wait for me to post my thoughts on the matter, which is what he asked for, our recommendations to reply back negatively. You got more time than me.
Just trying to keep the kool-aid away

 

[R Walter]

Guilty. I have 2 right now and getting another in a few weeks. i can't get enough of BMW. They are the Ultimate Driving Machine!!!

In checking out your garage build, it looks like only a 1 car garage???? Am I mistaken?

 

[Tom2]

A novice buying Snap-On tools sounds like a waste of money. I've been shadetree wrenching in my garage for 10 years, usually a few times a week. Never owned anything Snap-On.

Snap-On is for the pro that really needs a high quality tool. There are definitely uses for high end tools, but certainly not for someone just wanting to throw together a starter set. Unless you have a lot of money and have nothing more useful to spend it on.

 

[eborcim]

If you want to try Snap-On tools, then buy them. The cost does not seem to be a big issue for you (like so many others on here). You might find you like the feel of the tools and do more projects (BMX?) in your garage. Or you might just like to polish them and be happy with the nice tools you have. The choice is up to you.

 

[Fantom]

I can agree to the fact that you may want the best-of-the-best, and that's how I am with most things. I believe there's no sense in buying things twice, so you might as well spend the money in the first place.

However, I echo what copterdoctor's posts completely. If your tools are going to spend 99% their lives sitting on a shelf or in a box, there is no need for SnapOn stuff. Craftsman and the like will be just fine for whatever projects you'll encounter.

I also believe that you can't appreciate the high-end tools without using crappy ones first. A Craftsman ratchet is lightyears behind a SnapOn Dual 80 or a Matco 88...but feeling the difference between a Craftsman 30 tooth and a Matco 88 tooth will make you realize just how much better the Matco is. I would work my way up from Craftsman to see if you truly need the higher-end brands (which is exactly what I'm doing now).

 

[Wakefield]

If the O.P. needs a good single or double jointed spark plug getter perhaps that could be an excuse to spend Snap on money.

 

[jvitez]

I've done basic vehicle type maintenance/light repairs for years with my dear departed dad's Craftsman/Indestro socket and wrench sets, 3/8 drive only. I was more of a woodworker/home-improvement type of guy, so I had a quite nice hand tool and power tool collection. Then I found GJ......

I've spent a lot of money over the last couple of years on a great selection of mechanic's tools. I'm now able to do so much more than I ever thought possible, because I have the tools. I limited myself in the past because I didn't have the correct tools. So if you have the interest, aptitude, and funds, go for it! Buy what makes you happy and you enjoy using.

If you'd prefer that your tools arrive at your door, check out harryepstein.com, chadtoolsbox.com, and tooltopia.com for example. They carry many high quality items at cheaper prices than Snap-On. Even if cost isn't a factor, variety might be. I love having tools from multiple different manufacturers. I'd find in unexciting if all my tools were one brand, but that's just me.

Also, check out Wright Tools. I think they are the same quality as Snap-On, and also US made. But I do love my Dual-80 ratchets.

Please post some pics of your new acquisitions when you can. Good luck and enjoy the trip!

 

[canuckian]

Are the truck prices the same as the website prices when it comes to Snapon?

yes, pretty much. If you pay cash on the truck, the driver may cut off the tax or give you a small discount but don't depend on that. Also, sometimes they have special deals on the trucks that they don't offer online - for example my truck guy has a "buy a set of 3/8 extensions and get an F80 3/8 ratchet free" and 'buy the 1/2 and 1/4 flex head ratchet and get the 3/8 flex for free. The US guys also just went through a bunch of $99 specials. but, for the odd one-off piece, the website's prices are on par with the trucks.

 

[R Walter]

After careful consideration...I have decided to (and already begun to) purchase Knipex, SnapOn and Wera tools for my initial collection. Thanks to many members here (via this thread and PM's) i have really narrowed my choices down and have really admired the quality of the tools that have arrived so far. I can see the quality compared to the few tools I already owned. I am really impressed with the Were screwdriver handles. It is amazing how well they feel in your hand compared to the old screwdrivers I just boxed up and gave to some friends.

I thank all of you guys again for your comments and insight. I'm trying not to go too crazy buying tools right now, but I wanted to get a nice basic collection to start me off. As time progresses, and I get more familiar with what is out there and what my needs will be, I will undoubtedly be spending a lot of time at the Snapon Website!

I'm guessing you're going to be the best tooled musician there is!

 

[BHR4CE1]

In checking out your garage build, it looks like only a 1 car garage???? Am I mistaken?

No, it is a two car garage. 27' Wide X 24" Deep

 

[hilld]

After careful consideration...I have decided to (and already begun to) purchase Knipex, SnapOn and Wera tools for my initial collection. Thanks to many members here (via this thread and PM's) i have really narrowed my choices down and have really admired the quality of the tools that have arrived so far. I can see the quality compared to the few tools I already owned. I am really impressed with the Were screwdriver handles. It is amazing how well they feel in your hand compared to the old screwdrivers I just boxed up and gave to some friends.

I thank all of you guys again for your comments and insight. I'm trying not to go too crazy buying tools right now, but I wanted to get a nice basic collection to start me off. As time progresses, and I get more familiar with what is out there and what my needs will be, I will undoubtedly be spending a lot of time at the Snapon Website!

Frank,

you might want to give the local snap on dealer a call and have him meet your at your place. Let him know that you wanted to place a rather large initial order (to get your going) with him. You might even be able to work out a small discount if you pay cash and he doesn't have to do payments with you. You never know until you try. He could show you some of the basic sets that you would need such as Torx, Torx Plus, wrenches, sockets, ratchets, etc.

 

[R Walter]

I recommend you buy some mid level tools, ie, craftsman and husky... why you may ask? because you said it yourself, you don't work on cars, and don't even know what size of ratchet you have, so there's absolutely NO need for you to have the snapon quality tools. husky and craftsman will get the job done just as well as snapon for the jobs it sounds like you're going to be working on.
there are tool collectors, then there are tool USERS.... both have their reasons for buying high grade tools. most users buy them because it may speed up their job, or because they've been doing it long enough they know that "this socket" has a thinner wall, and can just squeeze into where they need it.

I work on multi million dollar aircraft every day. I'd say about 50% of my tools are high end snapon, matco, etc... the other half, are just mid level tools.
as you do more and more work, you'll learn what you REALLY need to spend the big bucks on, and what you don't.
Like I said, unless you're "collecting" tools, I'd save my money if I were you.

There are collectors, accumulators and hoarders. They all 'collect' largely without regard to any financial return. Whatever they 'collect' gives them great pleasure whether it be watermelon seeds or French antiques. It's just a matter of degree of quality and quantity.

I, for one, prefer tools that are utilitarian. I use them. Any self-aggrandizement on my part when it comes to tools is missing. As Benjamin Franklin famously noted, "If you would not be forgotten, as soon as you are dead and rotten, either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing."

Now when it comes to firearms, that's another matter. Does anyone really need 50+ bolt action center fire rifles or 100+ S&W and Colt double action revolvers?

 

[Busted Bolts]

I think this is funny. So many people commented on how SO wouldn't be the better choice for this gentleman due to the fact that he doesn't work on his cars, but now after many years he would like to own a better set of tools than he did in the past. Valid points by many on cost, value, praticality, and personal preferences. He has a beautiful new garage, multiple BMW's, and a lift to detail them. He is doing everything that feels right to HIM. He has some nice toys to enjoy and wants to compliment all of it with good tools, and after many people suggesting C-Man was the way to go for many different reasons and SO was over priced, too much for what he would need, and not applicable for what he described for uses, he did buy some SO, and wera, and "will undoubtedly be spending more time on the snap-on web site". Good for you BHR4CE1. There is some great tool knowledge here on the GJ, but when it's all said and done, it's your tools, your money, and your enjoyment. Besides using the tools, searching and shopping is also part of the fun. Good luck.