You have most likely heard the phrase, "You learn by your mistakes".......well, that is why I'm so damed smart....
Ok...so you want a list....I'm sure I'll get some flack from some 'guys'....but one thing I am sure of....#1 on the list is in fact the #1 tool....
1. Shop vac - Why? So the spouse (trying to be PC here) does not get upset when you use it to clean the car or garage. Get one with at least the 2.5" hose...and one that also has exhaust port that you can plug the hose into and use it to blow.
2. Leaf Blower - Not only good at blowing off the lawn after you do the yard work but also great at blowing out the garage. I find that the cleaner I keep the garage, the better I work.....and more relaxed I am....hard to explain...but that is how it works....
3. Utility Knifes - Try to buy that pack that has about 5 folding knifes in it that uses the replacable blade....once you have them you will understand....(just keep away from future x's)
4. Cordless Combi Kit - I mean the kit that contains the cordless drill, 5 1/4" circular saw, and sawsall....at least 18V. Drill....no explination needed....circular saw? I use the cordless more than my 7 1/2" Craftsman...much easier to use to rip a 4x8 sheet to the size I need. Sawsall.....you would be surprised how much you can use it....besides cutting wood and metal (screws), with a long blade it does a great job cutting tree branches.
5. Roll Around Tool Box - Besides being a place to keep the tools, you can roll it to where you are working. It really is the best place to store the tools. Get one that has a deep bottom drawer for the large tools that don't come with their own case.
6. Hand Tools - The guys below pretty much covered the basics.....Hammer...you need two, Big one little one....Pliers....Small and large...I have a channel lock that is adjustable to 6"....great for removing oil filters......Wire cutters....buy a quality pair....cheap ones don't last long.....Wire striper......(don't buy a cheap one).....Screw drivers - get one that has the replacable tips (philips and flat, #1 and #2 bits) as well as a set of smaller ones....HD has a set in a case of small ones where the handle has a 'button' that rotates.
7. Levels - You need at least one 6"...and a 2-3' level also comes in handy.
8. Wrenches - Unless you are doing your own auto repair...not a big deal...but do buy a good pair of 'Crescent' (adjustable) wrenches.
9. Pry Bar (or BIG screw driver) - More uses than you think....especially if the X comes around.
I could go on and on....but a lot also depends on what all you want to do with them....
Me? I do both wood working, garage building, and jeep building....so I have a lot of tools.....
Good luck....and Kudos to you for moving forward.
