First Tools - Craftsman

[rodrigues94]

Hi, I am new here.

I am going to buy some tools from Craftsman. I searched a lot for this,
I almost bought some kit/set tools, but they all sucked, only a stanley kit looked acceptable, but not good enough.
So, I am going to start to buy some tools and build my own kit.

If you have any comment or suggestion I will enjoy it.


Craftsman 9 in. Magnetic Torpedo Level
Craftsman 15 in. Fine 12 Pt. Carpenter Handsaw with Soft Grip Handle
Craftsman 7 in. Pliers, Wide Jaw Diagonal
Craftsman 3 pc. Pliers Set
Craftsman Heavy Duty Lockback Utility Knife
Craftsman Evolv 3 pc. Adjustable Wrench Set
Craftsman 29 pc. Screwdriver Assortment
Craftsman 16 oz. Curved Claw Hammer

Total:$158.64
cratsman.com

I am going to use for house repair,computer and make some things of my house gym.
I didn't buy it yet, so please comment !

One question:
Is there any good place to buy a bolts,screws,nuts,etc sets?

Thanks

 

[Solid Lifters]

You have be be very careful about buying Craftsman, these days. They are not as good as they used to be. Avoid the Chinese stuff. It's ****. From personal experience, trust me on that. However, the USA stuff is OK. Not the best, but OK.

I take it you're just starting out and just got here. If I were you, I'd get some very good tools, tools with a lifetime warranty that will last you a lifetime, like Wiha, Knipex, Wera, Falo, NWS or the like. Do some research here and the net on these brands. Should help you make a better decision than buying only Craftsman tools.

 

[wreckerman5357]

It sounds like the OP is buying these tools for minor home owner use only. If all they are going to be used for is occaisionally hanging a picture frame or putting toghether furniture, he dosent need high end stuff. I would recomend Harbor Freight for what this guy is doing. His price will be cut in half and for how little the tools are used they will be fine.

 

[diesel research]

Craftsman 29 pc. Screwdriver Assortment

Ask yourself:
Do I need 29 screwdrivers to do basic stuff around the house?

(they real answer is you might) but what I am trying to get you to consider is, would you possibly be just as well suited with fewer drivers?

They come in a wide variety of lengths, handle shapes, bit types, ratcheting/non-ratcheting, handle storage, hex collet/non, etc.

Not recommending a certain brand, but suggesting you check out your options and see if anything piques your interest. They also make smaller versions for micro screws found in eyeglasses, electrnoics, computers, etc.

With that knife, I am not too particularly enthused with that model, and truth be told, a plain cheap stanley knife is cheaper/better.

With the rest of the stuff, go ahead and price/quality check against competing retailers, see if you can get more quantity/quality or lower price. Never hurts to shop around.

 

[Danglerb]

The OP (original poster) should be able to find everything on his list and more for about $30 at a typical yard sale, and I 2nd the notion of buying a fair amount from Harbor Freight.

A good multibit screwdriver and the HF 100 bit security set. Cheap decent hammer, and the rest look at a few yard sales.

My main caution with the Sears list is that its WAY too short, so the Sears path to all the tools he really needs is maybe four or five times as much money.

Hammers
Claw, small tack, rubber mallet, and a deadblow.

Wrenches
At least a full set of SAE and metric combo wrenches.

Sockets
At least a full set of SAE and metric 1/4 and 3/8 drive sockets and ratchets.

Plumbing tools
Pipe wrenches, strap wrenches, basin and faucet wrenches.

Wood tools
Time for me to sleep, but this is the idea.

 

[powertrip]

Ok who going to be the first to recommend snapon and tell him craftsman is junk? Only a matter of time. To the op. What you have chosen will suit your needs and fine quality for what you will be using them for. For my first tools, i wouldnt want to buy at a yard sale as someone suggested if i didnt have to. Just go to sears and buy your list and DONT listen to any tool snobs ( yes there is such a thing ) who tell you if you dont spend Xdollars or buy Xbrand you are less of a man. Spend what you want and choose a convienant store close by for any warranty concerns that may arise.

 

[68-camaro]

I personally think it's a good place to start. Not alot money for the money you can save by doing the work yourself. As far as the quality you have to start somewhere. If you find out latter you would of liked better quality, make better quality your next purchases. Yard and auction sales are great if you have the time. These people on this site will help you get the best for your money, but at the same time it can be overwhelming. Pay attention to the Tool Guys reports and advice, very good stuff.

 

[KEH]

The Craftsman pliers are good, US made. The evolv adjustable wrenches are imports. Craftsman still make US adjustable wrenches and I would recommend them. This info is as of last week.

I would get a professional grade Craftsman Phillips screwdriver and a small set of professional straight blades. Don't know about how useful the big set will be.

KEH

 

[Larwyn]

I grew up on a small dairy farm where we did lots of mechanic work with very few tools. I started building my tool collection after I joined the Air Force by ordering what I needed from Sears Roebuck and Company (they would ship Air Mail at no extra fee to APO addresses overseas). This was in the late 60's and I still have most of those tools. I used to to run a little side business tuning up cars for other GI's on base so the tools did not set idle. Though I only officially made my living as a mechanic for 15 years or so, I never had a job that did not require the use of hand tools (often provided by my employer). These tools provided by employers did expose me to some of the "better" tools so I do know the difference. Over the years I have owned some real clunkers for transportation but always managed to keep them going with my limited collection of Craftsman tools.

It has been my experience that Craftsman tools were the best choice for me. I cannot recall ever actually needing to use the warranty but twice; a broken pair pliers and I craked/split a spark plug socket when I learned that it is not a good substitute for use on a lug nut. I could not afford the "better" tools by Snap On etc. Owning Craftsman tools was and is 100% better than wishing I could afford "better". They have served me well for over 40 years, it is a shame that the quality of the newer Craftsman tools is not up to what it was then.

 

[Even Steven]

Craftsman tools are still good quality and if you manage to break any Craftsman tool, you can just bring it back to any Sears store for a free replacement. You don't even need a receipt.

 

[woody 73]

The best way (as someone stated) is to look at garage sales for items like hammers,saws,jars of nuts & Bolts,screwdrivers,pliers,etc. then fill in the gap at Sears with what you are missing.

HF does have a nice small selection of plastic boxes filled with nuts & bolts but stay away from any screwdrivers or drill bits; at least in my opinion the drill bits are made out of tissue paper and the screwdrivers do not hold up very well.

Go to the cripe web-site and look for a few good deals on some of their tools (they changed to a new web-format; which I am not crazy about but you should be able to navigate your way around it).

From time to time check out the GJ for tools for sale, you can find some great deal from some of our GJ members.

Best of luck and Welcome to the GJ.

Happy Hunting.

Woody

 

[Butters]

Given your requirements/uses, I don't think you can go wrong with Craftsman. However, I also don't think you would go wrong with similar stuff from Home Depot (Husky), Lowes (Kobalt), or Harbor Freight (if you pick and choose the decent stuff). I would be more concerned about which is more convenient to me than which brand on entry level stuff. All have similar warranties and quality levels IMHO.

Although your kit seems built more toward carpentry, I can't imagine not having at least a basic socket set and a set of hex head wrenches.

I would also throw out something like the Crescent Mechanics Tool set (under $100) to build around:

It is a pretty good value and decent quality for home use. Has a good selection of tools as well. It's also available at Sears as well as auto parts stores. Just add the saw, hammer, and level.

Buy a name brand from somewhere convenient to you and you can't really go wrong.

 

[Outlawmws]

Hi, I am new here.

I am going to buy some tools from Craftsman. I searched a lot for this,
I almost bought some kit/set tools, but they all sucked, only a stanley kit looked acceptable, but not good enough.
So, I am going to start to buy some tools and build my own kit.

If you have any comment or suggestion I will enjoy it.


Craftsman 9 in. Magnetic Torpedo Level
Craftsman 15 in. Fine 12 Pt. Carpenter Handsaw with Soft Grip Handle
Craftsman 7 in. Pliers, Wide Jaw Diagonal
Craftsman 3 pc. Pliers Set
Craftsman Heavy Duty Lockback Utility Knife
Craftsman Evolv 3 pc. Adjustable Wrench Set
Craftsman 29 pc. Screwdriver Assortment
Craftsman 16 oz. Curved Claw Hammer

Total:$158.64
cratsman.com

I am going to use for house repair,computer and make some things of my house gym.
I didn't buy it yet, so please comment !

One question:
Is there any good place to buy a bolts,screws,nuts,etc sets?

Thanks

Why the adjustable wrench set? adjustables have their use, but nuts and bolts (also on your list, ) aren't their strong suite. I'd get ONE 12" adjustable. (not an Evolv, this is a prime candidate for a yard sale item, and yes get it US made...)

Instead of the adjustable set, a small set of combination wrenches, 3/8 - 3/4 should do for most household duties, and a small set of 3/8 drive sockets in about the same range. Craftsman sockets are fine, but their ratchets have taken a fall. For that I'd go to HF since you are on a budget. That may be your better deal for a socket/ratchet set.

I'll second the bit driver set for screwdrivers, and later you can add a larger set of bit drivers which should help in you computer repair efforts. This also dovetails into a screw gun driver, as if you do much, you will want to get one at some point.


For your fasteners, can you clarify what you need then for, and likely sizes? Most fastener "handy kits" in the box stores are utter ****. do get an organizer box or three for cast off and left over fasteners. Salvaging fasteners fro broken items is also a good source. Keep them sorted to some level as you go, and you will discover you can build a decent "Handy Kit" of fasteners pretty easily over time, AND be able to find them when you need them.

 

[pipsters]

Why not something like this, covers the majority of your list, then just buy what else you need

http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10...owner+tool+set&prdNo=2&blockNo=2&blockType=L2

It's Craftsman Evolve so it's Chinese but from what I've seen in the store it's actually pretty darn good quality for the $$. Only $60.

Also look for a 12v or 14v Skil cordless drill. I picked mine up on a Black Friday special for $20 w/ battery and charger. Drill bits are fairly cheap.

 

[JASTECH]

I would buy the higher quality, that way no issues with tools and your not helping China build more nukes and slave/starve their people. Plus it's nice to leave quality items to your kids. Instead of them saying "all gpa had was cheap broke tools".

 

[Jwrightkustomz]

Like everyone said it looks like your looking for just a basic homeowners tool set. Is this correct? Or what did you plan on doing/needing them for? That kind of info will really help us. If your looking to just perform basic maintenance and home care then that's probably a good start. If your looking to start performing your own auto maintenance, not so much.

 

[lowbucktruck]

Ditto on the Crescent tool set, its a good value for a starter tool kit.
You can find it on Amazon and Costco carries this kit as well. Also agree that for screwdriver bits, stay away from Harbor Freight. Check places like Ace Hardware, Home Depot, shop around... I picked up a set of DeWalt phillips-head bits for cheap at Home Depot. Ace Hardware now carries Craftsman tools.
I don't know about the quality of Craftsman-brand hammers... so can't comment on them. But there are plenty of choices for a quality hammer out there. Another tool you will probably use alot, so might want to buy a good one. I own several. If you are doing any carpentry work/home repair, might want to consider getting a good framing hammer.

You haven't mentioned a cordless drill/driver, batteries or driver accessories though. Do you already own a cordless drill? Probably one of the most-used tools for average joe homeowner. Drill/driver kit with most everything you need is invaluable.

IMHO, I would also suggest adding a good tool belt, tool bag/tote or Bucket Boss organizer to your list... these are handy for carrying your tools to where the work is.

Given your requirements/uses, I don't think you can go wrong with Craftsman. However, I also don't think you would go wrong with similar stuff from Home Depot (Husky), Lowes (Kobalt), or Harbor Freight (if you pick and choose the decent stuff). I would be more concerned about which is more convenient to me than which brand on entry level stuff. All have similar warranties and quality levels IMHO.

Although your kit seems built more toward carpentry, I can't imagine not having at least a basic socket set and a set of hex head wrenches.

I would also throw out something like the Crescent Mechanics Tool set (under $100) to build around:

It is a pretty good value and decent quality for home use. Has a good selection of tools as well. It's also available at Sears as well as auto parts stores. Just add the saw, hammer, and level.

Buy a name brand from somewhere convenient to you and you can't really go wrong.

 

[t1r2u3s4t]

around $150, this set looks pretty solid http://www.harborfreight.com/professional-301-piece-mechanics-tool-kit-45951.html

 

[volunteers]

The Craftsman pliers are good, US made. The evolv adjustable wrenches are imports. Craftsman still make US adjustable wrenches and I would recommend them. This info is as of last week.

I would get a professional grade Craftsman Phillips screwdriver and a small set of professional straight blades. Don't know about how useful the big set will be.

KEH

I bought a 5pc craftsman mini plier set yesterday, and they are Made in China.

 

[SMKS]

To the OP-

The only thing I will add is to check out as many of these items in the store as possible. Many Craftsman items have been switched from USA to imported, but the website was never updated.

Also, skip both of these:
Craftsman Evolv 3 pc. Adjustable Wrench Set
Craftsman 29 pc. Screwdriver Assortment

Regular Craftsman screwdrivers are not very good. There are better choices.

As for the adjustable wrenches, why buy Chinese? (I'm assuming they're Chinese, I could be wrong.) Used adjustable wrenches are super common. And there are new USA and Spanish made alternatives.

 

[powertrip]

Help a new member out. Dont turn this into an anti-china rant/sears&craftsman are not good anymore rant. That **** is getting SO old on this site.

 

[volunteers]

I would buy the higher quality, that way no issues with tools and your not helping China build more nukes and slave/starve their people.

Yes, buy US made tools to help build more nukes and fight with Iran. Is this your point?
It is tools discussion, please stop talking about that junk.

 

[rodrigues94]

Thanks for the support. So many replies

So, It's better if I give you more information about what I want:
I really wanted to buy some good quality tools, not the best like snap on because I am not a pro, right? Now, I don't know if the craftsman is the best brand for me, but I know that I should buy from not only one brand.
I have to buy online because actually I'm from Brazil(here the tools are worst than chinese), and I'll ship to a guy that ships for me.Because of that I don't want heavy tool sets(ship. price is equal the weigth). And I probably won't use the warranty.

The HF products seems to be very cheap, the quality isnt so good, right?
Sears is a good store for high quality tools, is there any other?

I forgot to tell, I already have a bosch power drill and Digital Laser Distance Measure by bosch(my dad wanted) too.
People that suggested to try other tools I'll use the information later...
Thanks again

 

[Jwrightkustomz]

There is nothing wrong with buying Snap-On etc just because you're not a pro. If you can afford it why not?

 

[Larwyn]

My comment about the downfall of Craftsman's quality was solely based on the comments of others. There is no Sears store where I live (only a catalog sales center), so I have not seen these new lower quality Craftsman tools for myself.

 

[lowbucktruck]

Well... your preference for online purchase makes sense. Sears is/was good at mail order. With regards to ordering tools from Sears via their website, your mileage may vary. Some GJ users have posted that their orders were cancelled unexpectedly. I ordered a socket accessory set a few months back, and had no problems with receiving my order (other than the lack of sufficient packing materials in the box).
I have had good luck with online purchases from Amazon. You might want to shop Amazon for some tools.

FYI... I asked for a current Craftsman catalog when I visited the local Sears store last week, and was told that they no longer provided printed tool catalogs in the store. I would be interested to find out if that is true.

I would suggest getting an adjustable plier set... perhaps instead of the Craftsman pliers, you might shop around for a set of Channellocks. You can order Channellocks sets from Amazon. Channellock pliers are a good value and they may become your "go-to" pliers for alot of little jobs.

 

[HandyManny]

Hi, I am new here.

I am going to buy some tools from Craftsman. I searched a lot for this,
I almost bought some kit/set tools, but they all sucked, only a stanley kit looked acceptable, but not good enough.
So, I am going to start to buy some tools and build my own kit.

If you have any comment or suggestion I will enjoy it.


Craftsman 9 in. Magnetic Torpedo Level
Craftsman 15 in. Fine 12 Pt. Carpenter Handsaw with Soft Grip Handle
Craftsman 7 in. Pliers, Wide Jaw Diagonal
Craftsman 3 pc. Pliers Set
Craftsman Heavy Duty Lockback Utility Knife
Craftsman Evolv 3 pc. Adjustable Wrench Set
Craftsman 29 pc. Screwdriver Assortment
Craftsman 16 oz. Curved Claw Hammer

Total:$158.64
cratsman.com

I am going to use for house repair,computer and make some things of my house gym.
I didn't buy it yet, so please comment !

One question:
Is there any good place to buy a bolts,screws,nuts,etc sets?

Thanks

My suggestion would be for you to buy what you need a situations and tasks arise. Preferable have some foresight and pick up basic tools that you know you will need around the house. For the average home owner or DIYer just about most brands available home centers or hardware store will serve you well.

In general Cman is good for your needs, most of their USA made stuff has diminished in quality over the years, not sure it's any better than the new Chinese stuff, but a few tools from their USA made stuff is still pretty good in quality.

My suggestion:
Pliers - I go with all Channellock, some Knipex too
Adjustable Wrenches - Craftsman (Western Forge made)
Level - Empire
Hand Saw - Stanley
Screwdrivers - Craftsman or Stanley
Claw Hammer - Vaughan or Estwing
Utility knife - Stanley or Irwin

Side note: Real men don't use Evolv tools. Just trust me on this one.

 

[wave180]

Just get the Crescent from Costco or Amazon and add some Channelock pliers.

 

[diesel research]

Help a new member out. Dont turn this into an anti-china rant/sears&craftsman are not good anymore rant. That **** is getting SO old on this site.

It's funny. You've done nothing but complain about others ranting, have not yet made any tool suggestions that could be considered helpful. Take the advice above, help the guy out.

 

[idoitproject]

I would skip the 29 piece screw driver set and get one #2 phillips, one #1 phillips, one 1/4" slotted, and one ratcheting screw driver set. Yes, you do need stubby screwdrivers too but that's up to you. I would not buy the regular Craftsman style screwdrivers as they feel horrible in hand and **** when you need the torque to loosen screws, yes I own them and only use them as chisels now. I would even say that the HF style screw driver handles are better than the standard Craftsman handles. I own HF, SO, Craftsman standard & Pros, Channel Locks, and misc ones. My favorites are the SO Instincts then the Craftsman Pros.

Definitely buy a 3 piece adjustable wrench set, they come in so handy. Haven't seen the Evolve ones though. I own 2 sets of the Duralast ones, I love them.

You should own a socket/ratchet set. The Craftsman sockets are fine (don't buy the laser etched only ones, the etching will wear off). For home project use (not auto), 3/8" drive is all you really need and I would start the socket from 1/4". If you are looking to buy the Craftsman raised panel ratchet, might as well buy some HF ratchets. They feel better in hand and the ratcheting is tighter, meaning no loose play for the same or less money.

As far as wrenches go, you can get by with these. I own a metric set and love them. They are longer then raised panels so you get a little more leverage. Wish they made bigger sizes. If I had the $$$, I'd just get SO ones but most of us know how that goes.
Craftsman Evolv 7 pc. Combination Wrench Set SAE
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00912352000P?prdNo=2&blockNo=2&blockType=G2

Anyway, I will say this since no one has. Most "first tools" get lost before they even ever break. Yes there are many who still have their "first tools" but there are even many more who don't. I don't, wish I did. Carelessness is to blame on my part. Now...I'm **** about making sure I got all my tools before calling it a day.

 

[powertrip]

It's funny. You've done nothing but complain about others ranting, have not yet made any tool suggestions that could be considered helpful. Take the advice above, help the guy out.

I told him the items he had choosen would be good for the type of use he intends as well as little of what to expect in answers. No complaining. Read my first post again. The guy wants reassured that his choices are good and doesnt need an anti china rant. Pretty easy to understand i think. If anything you are the one complaining. Are you starting trouble? I have no time for stupidity

 

[Rickster]

I'd pass on the 29pc screwdriver kit and get maybe a 6 or 8 pc set. Go with the Craftsman Pro screwdrivers they'll serve you better in the long run.

I'd also pass on the evolve adjustable wrenches. Pick up either a 10 in or 12 in Craftsman adj wrench and a set of Craftsman raised panel wrenches on SAE and metric.

I'd also add a pair of channel lock pliers med sized.

 

[crewchief888]

Ok who going to be the first to recommend snapon and tell him craftsman is junk? Only a matter of time. To the op. What you have chosen will suit your needs and fine quality for what you will be using them for. For my first tools, i wouldnt want to buy at a yard sale as someone suggested if i didnt have to. Just go to sears and buy your list and DONT listen to any tool snobs ( yes there is such a thing ) who tell you if you dont spend Xdollars or buy Xbrand you are less of a man. Spend what you want and choose a convienant store close by for any warranty concerns that may arise.

ok i'll be the 1st
BUY SNAP ON

Help a new member out. Dont turn this into an anti-china rant/sears&craftsman are not good anymore rant. That **** is getting SO old on this site.

seriously tho, for 'round the house DIY, and minor automotive, CM tools will serve you well. stanley, duralast, kobalt, HF and many other brands will as well.
tool buying is a learning curve, what works for you, may not suit my needs.
my garage & work boxes are full of everything from SO to HF and everything in between.

just remember,
rome wasnt built in a day, and neither was any collection of tools.
welcome to GJ and happy tool quest

 

[JMorrison4371]

Stanley's are amazingly tough tools, you can't go wrong with Stanley. I have a set that has seen a good share of abuse and there is very little wear on anything.

 

[lowbucktruck]

Yeah, I would also say pass on the Sears Evolv wrenches/adjustable wrenches (too lightweight, IMHO). You'd be better off buying Crescent or Stanley wrenches instead. More durable and better bang for your buck.

 

[stripped]

Good tools are expensive. Decide if you need every thing at once. If not, take your time. Yard sales frequently produce great deals on quality US made tools If you are set on
Craftsman, some of the stores are currently going out of business and discounting some of their tools by 40%.

 

[HandyManny]

I told him the items he had choosen would be good for the type of use he intends as well as little of what to expect in answers. No complaining. Read my first post again. The guy wants reassured that his choices are good and doesnt need an anti china rant. Pretty easy to understand i think. If anything you are the one complaining. Are you starting trouble? I have no time for stupidity

Yeah, I get ya. I see no place for the anti-China rant here on this thread myself. There is just no reason for an average DIYer or home owner to go out of their way searching for and spending tons of money on Snap-On, Wright, Proto, SK, and other high-end more expensive brands of hand tools. Especially for tools that will likely be used infrequently for most of the time. As I said before, nothing wrong with tools from the local hardware store or home-center, even if they are China or Taiwan made. Most of the good old USA manufacturers abandoned and turned their back on the average consumer years ago. For the DIYer, less expensive easy to acquire hand tools are really the only option. Truth is most tradesman buy or replace their daily use tools from these sources as well. I've seen it for years. I can't recall ever seeing a carpenter, HVAC, plumber, or electrician with high dollar industrial brands for hand tools in their tool bag. Most use common off-the-shelf locally sourced hand tools, even if that is Ridgid or Klein at the best. I see lots of Irwin and Stanley hand tools being used by pros. If it works for them on the job I see no reason why it wouldn't work for the home owner.

With that being said, there still are a few high-end, but reasonably priced hand tools that can still be easily acquired locally. Channellock, Ridgid, Klien to name a few.

 

[HandyManny]

Stanley's are amazingly tough tools, you can't go wrong with Stanley. I have a set that has seen a good share of abuse and there is very little wear on anything.

I don't think you can go into any trade or industry in this country and not run across at least a few Stanley hand tools being used by someone. Everyone uses them, even it it is one or two tools out of their whole tool arsenal.

 

[so2315]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-SGDMRC44BR-Soft-Grip-Ratcheting-Screwdriver-New-/150733480252?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr&hash=item23186a613c#ht_496wt_301

Skip the screwdriver set, this is all you need!

 

[HandyManny]

Why the adjustable wrench set? adjustables have their use, but nuts and bolts (also on your list, ) aren't their strong suite. I'd get ONE 12" adjustable. (not an Evolv, this is a prime candidate for a yard sale item, and yes get it US made...)

Instead of the adjustable set, a small set of combination wrenches, 3/8 - 3/4 should do for most household duties, and a small set of 3/8 drive sockets in about the same range. Craftsman sockets are fine, but their ratchets have taken a fall. For that I'd go to HF since you are on a budget. That may be your better deal for a socket/ratchet set.

There are plenty of reasons to own a set of good adjustable wrenches. They have their place in residential plumbing, and to a lesser extent in automotive work, they even have a place in electrical at times. Emergency use is an excellent reason to have them handy - try searching for the right sized open-end wrench to shut off the gas should the need arise in a crisis. Yes they can even be used on high grade nuts and bolts or structural bolts, done that many times, however I do agree a combo wrench or socket is often a better tool when available. In fact many nuts or bolts can't even be acessed with an adjustable wrench, so it's good to own a socket set as well.

If a person has to own just one I'd make it a 10" adjustable. But ideally nothing wrong with having a set - 8", 10", and 12". I even find use for my 15" adjustable from time to time, mostly for ball hitches on a towbar anymore.