Recommended Tools & Brands for DIYer / Weekend Warrior

[Stormin1]

Looking for suggestions on tools & brands to outfit my toolbox. I work on my own cars & plan on improving my skills each year. Looking to buy quality tools once, so I am willing to pay a higher price if needed. Although I've heard good things about Taiwanese tools, I'd prefer to stick to the USA-made brands unless you guys suggest otherwise. I've been looking at these brands so far; Snap-on, Mac, SK, Wright, Williams USA, Ko-Ken, Knipex ( for pilers ), & trusty Cook (for hammers).

Looking for recommendations for:

1. Sockets & extensions: 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 (impact only)
2. Ratchets ( flex-head? ): 1/4, 3/8, 1/2
3. Wrenches ( ratcheting flex-head, 6pt or 12pt?):
4. Screwdriver set:
5. Pilers:
6. Hammers:
7. Torx bits / hex / allen sockets:
8. Drill / step bits ( for Milwaukee m18 )
9. Calipers:
10. Torque wrenches:
11. Wire crimper/cutter:
12. Soldering tool:
12. Punch set:
13. Pry bar / files:

Thank you in advance.

 

[four.cycle]

Hello Stormin1 and welcome to the site!

Keep this link handy.

Let the games begin!

(where is that popcorn emoticon?)

 

[Stormin1]

Hello Stormin1 and welcome to the site!

Keep this link handy.

Let the games begin!

(where is that popcorn emoticon?)

Thank you sir.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

Lots of good brands out there for all of those things. Some of my favorites as a professional mechanic are:
1. Snap-on screwdrivers, tips can’t be beat and hard handles for me but plenty of variation on handles. Williams also has hard handles version only in black though if that matters.

2. Sockets, chrome lots of good brands I have several brands. Tekton, Capri, Duralast, Snap-on, SK, Pittsburgh Craftsman USA and Taiwan. Also been really impressed with all the auto parts stores sockets too they are really good and tight fitting especially Carlyle and Duralast. I feel Snap-on chrome sockets are a waste of money but they are good. Just not worth the asking price.

3. Impact sockets, Tekton, Capri, Snap-on, Pittsburgh, Kobalt. I’ve found the Craftsman Taiwan and China both wear out really fast if you use them all the time.

4. Pliers, Snap-on and Knipex and Channellock. Not really many others that I care for. Those three are the best brands in my opinion. For locking pliers aka Vise Grips Snap-on modern made by Malco the old Grip-on made ones are less than desirable. Also Malco themselves are good too, Peterson/ Irwin USA. Bremen from Harbor Freight, Tekton and Duralast and Milwaukee are pretty good as well. All hold up really well using them all the time.

5. Ratchets, Snap-on for everything except locking flex head because there mechanism ***** and wears out fast. They released a new design for them so we will see how it works out. Matco for locking flex head otherwise. I recommend at least one fixed head and one flex head of every length and size.

Wrenches, Snap-on, Duralast, DieHard and TEQ from Advance Auto, Carlyle, old Craftsman USA if you are open to used. Sunex, Tekton, Capri, Gearwrench if you can find Taiwan the Chinese ones really don’t do well from my experience. Avoid Pittsburgh, Kobalt and modern Craftsman wrenches.

Hammers: Trusty Cook, Snap-on and if you are just looking for traditional wood handles ball peens then Blue Point and Pittsburgh. Snap-on hammers are no longer made by Trusty Cook but appear to be the same quality as before which are really good.

Torx/Hex bit sockets: Capri really can’t be beat I love mine. Never broke one. Easy warranty if they do break. I bought the master set for $200. Not a huge fan of the Snap-on as I’ve broken and twisted too many of them.

Drill Bits: Snap-on or any with lifetime warranty that’s easy to trade out. Snap-on appears to be best.

Pry Bars: Wilde or Mayhew. Wilde also makes the old Craftsman USA ones and Hyper Tough from Walmart. Snap-on are also very good.

Punches and Chisels: Snap-on, Mayhew

Torque Wreches: Snap-on, Tekton and Capri. Snap-on is a definite if you want digital.

All of these are from my experience using them. I would not recommend bad tools lol. Really been impressed by a lot of these brands especially the auto parts store stuff. My recommendation as I see you listed Mac is avoid Mac unless it’s used as most of their stuff is now imported and not really good from my experience.


Edit: missed you only looking for impact sockets. Sorry.

 

[Crabman]

Stormin

Welcome aboard!

Depending on your budget and urgency many nice used USA tools can be acquired at flea markets, estate and garage sales or ebay.

You will find some good deals on the Hot Deals forum:

★★ Hot Deals ★★

Looking for great deals, coupon codes, and all kinds of other links to time limited deals found on the internet? This is your place. Got one? Post it here!

www.garagejournal.com

four.cycle is a major contributor to the ebay thread:

Ebay or Auction Deals Permathread!

WIZARD (Western Auto) 10-piece METRIC combination wrench set w/vinyl roll-up 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 19 and 22mm * waiting on better photos from seller to identify maker on these. * used $45.00 + $11.00 shipping OBO "buy now" https://www.ebay.com/itm/255447922491 SOLD 03/21/22

www.garagejournal.com

I spend a lot of time on these two:

Amazon Warehouse Deals

So, to recap: Two batteries purchased from AWD One battery shipped One battery returned Two batteries refunded @ 100% One battery refunded at 33% Shipment both ways, plus 133% refund. This transaction was a loser. Ive had a similar situation and they have always made it right. Bought an upper...

www.garagejournal.com

Amazon Deals on New Retail Items - Post them!

HAZET 8816HP, fine-Tooth Reversible Ratchet (3/8 inch Square Drive, Extremely Resilient: 400 Nm, fine-Toothed: 90 Teeth, 4° Actuation Angle) 8816HP, Black-BlueHAZET 8816HP, fine-Tooth Reversible Ratchet (3/8 inch… $61.14

www.garagejournal.com

Best of luck with your tool journey!

Bruce

 

[Stormin1]

Lots of good brands out there for all of those things. Some of my favorites as a professional mechanic are:
1. Snap-on screwdrivers, tips can’t be beat and hard handles for me but plenty of variation on handles. Williams also has hard handles version only in black though if that matters.

2. Sockets, chrome lots of good brands I have several brands. Tekton, Capri, Duralast, Snap-on, SK, Pittsburgh Craftsman USA and Taiwan. Also been really impressed with all the auto parts stores sockets too they are really good and tight fitting especially Carlyle and Duralast. I feel Snap-on chrome sockets are a waste of money but they are good. Just not worth the asking price.

3. Impact sockets, Tekton, Capri, Snap-on, Pittsburgh, Kobalt. I’ve found the Craftsman Taiwan and China both wear out really fast if you use them all the time.

4. Pliers, Snap-on and Knipex and Channellock. Not really many others that I care for. Those three are the best brands in my opinion. For locking pliers aka Vise Grips Snap-on modern made by Malco the old Grip-on made ones are less than desirable. Also Malco themselves are good too, Peterson/ Irwin USA. Bremen from Harbor Freight, Tekton and Duralast and Milwaukee are pretty good as well. All hold up really well using them all the time.

5. Ratchets, Snap-on for everything except locking flex head because there mechanism ***** and wears out fast. They released a new design for them so we will see how it works out. Matco for locking flex head otherwise. I recommend at least one fixed head and one flex head of every length and size.

Wrenches, Snap-on, Duralast, DieHard and TEQ from Advance Auto, Carlyle, old Craftsman USA if you are open to used. Sunex, Tekton, Capri, Gearwrench if you can find Taiwan the Chinese ones really don’t do well from my experience. Avoid Pittsburgh, Kobalt and modern Craftsman wrenches.

Hammers: Trusty Cook, Snap-on and if you are just looking for traditional wood handles ball peens then Blue Point and Pittsburgh. Snap-on hammers are no longer made by Trusty Cook but appear to be the same quality as before which are really good.

Torx/Hex bit sockets: Capri really can’t be beat I love mine. Never broke one. Easy warranty if they do break. I bought the master set for $200. Not a huge fan of the Snap-on as I’ve broken and twisted too many of them.

Drill Bits: Snap-on or any with lifetime warranty that’s easy to trade out. Snap-on appears to be best.

Pry Bars: Wilde or Mayhew. Wilde also makes the old Craftsman USA ones and Hyper Tough from Walmart. Snap-on are also very good.

Punches and Chisels: Snap-on, Mayhew

Torque Wreches: Snap-on, Tekton and Capri. Snap-on is a definite if you want digital.

All of these are from my experience using them. I would not recommend bad tools lol. Really been impressed by a lot of these brands especially the auto parts store stuff. My recommendation as I see you listed Mac is avoid Mac unless it’s used as most of their stuff is now imported and not really good from my experience.


Edit: missed you only looking for impact sockets. Sorry.

Thank you for your recommendations! I greatly appreciate it.

 

[Stormin1]

Stormin

Welcome aboard!

Depending on your budget and urgency many nice used USA tools can be acquired at flea markets, estate and garage sales or ebay.

You will find some good deals on the Hot Deals forum:

★★ Hot Deals ★★

Looking for great deals, coupon codes, and all kinds of other links to time limited deals found on the internet? This is your place. Got one? Post it here!

www.garagejournal.com

four.cycle is a major contributor to the ebay thread:

Ebay or Auction Deals Permathread!

WIZARD (Western Auto) 10-piece METRIC combination wrench set w/vinyl roll-up 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 19 and 22mm * waiting on better photos from seller to identify maker on these. * used $45.00 + $11.00 shipping OBO "buy now" https://www.ebay.com/itm/255447922491 SOLD 03/21/22

www.garagejournal.com

I spend a lot of time on these two:

Amazon Warehouse Deals

So, to recap: Two batteries purchased from AWD One battery shipped One battery returned Two batteries refunded @ 100% One battery refunded at 33% Shipment both ways, plus 133% refund. This transaction was a loser. Ive had a similar situation and they have always made it right. Bought an upper...

www.garagejournal.com

Amazon Deals on New Retail Items - Post them!

HAZET 8816HP, fine-Tooth Reversible Ratchet (3/8 inch Square Drive, Extremely Resilient: 400 Nm, fine-Toothed: 90 Teeth, 4° Actuation Angle) 8816HP, Black-BlueHAZET 8816HP, fine-Tooth Reversible Ratchet (3/8 inch… $61.14

www.garagejournal.com

Best of luck with your tool journey!

Bruce

Awesome. Thanks Bruce!

 

[four.cycle]

^ yeah... first thing you want to do is cruise through the "Hot Deal" forum, before you pull your credit cards out....

I am pretty much a dyed-in-the-wool "U.S.A." kind of guy, but am very much impressed with some of the stuff I am seeing coming out of Taiwan and Japan and Germany, all of whom have taken a different tack on some items where American manufacturers have fallen behind the curve.

Best example of that: 1/4" hex bits and bit driver tools. No U.S. manufacturer is even on the same level. Not even on the same planet.

Sockets: take a good hard look at TEKTON. Nice stuff, well made, great warranty, NO SKIPPED SIZES (their most recent iterations of their 1/4" drive sets contain 4.5, 5.5, and 6.3mm sockets), really nice chrome, and they're affordable.

Pliers: ONE manufacturer might make the best 9-inch linesman pliers on the planet, but **** at everything else. Don't put blinders on and only look at one brand.

Screwdrivers: The Japanese and Germans and Swiss are beating the pants off U.S. screwdriver makers at present. That MIGHT change down the road if and when SBD gets Craftsman production back up and S-K can get their act together.

Really doesn't matter WHAT kind of tool you're looking for, odds are there's a thread here for it (along with everybody's unbiased opinion about it.) Check that "Sticky" thread - it's designed to serve as your road map.

 

[mslim]

Most of the other members have covered it so I'll just add a couple in my opinion. Klein for dikes and pliers. I like their soft handle screwdrivers for electrical and homeowner stuff but I use Felo hard handles in the garage. I like my Stahlwille combo wrenches. I don't know anything about flex heads. If you get a ratchet combo, I don't see a need to have a 12 pt box head since they ratchet. You do need a 12 pt box head on regular combos though for clearance purposes. I use 6 pt for everything else but I don't do aviation or racecars. I have been buying Tekton to fill out my RV toolbox, but I don't have any long term experience to share.

I don't know if it's cheaper than buying from Snap On but for precise torque wrenches I go with CDI. I have a Tekton 1/4" inch-pound for tightening oil pan bolts on motorcycles. Drill bits: Viking/Norseman. Soldering tool: Hakko

As for USA Craftsman... that was all I used until the '80's when I had some money to buy Snap On. However, unless someone wills you a USA set or you can pickup a nice set for cheap, I wouldn't spend the time to seek them out. There seems to be a current fetish powered by nostalgia about these tools. They were a good value in their time, but I feel that there's better tools on the market from Taiwan.

 

[speed bump]

1. I would go Sunnex with Astro pinless swivels but proto and Wright are good US made options
2. Whatever makes you happy, my primary ratchets are Snap on and Proto but their weren't as many options when I was buying. Honestly my battery impact gets way more use.
3. I like proto ASD for my combo wrenches get 12 pt wrenches. Ratcheting I'm sure there are lots of great choices mine are all at least 10 yrs old so no idea who to buy now although the Protos are nice.
4. Whatever you like grabbing, they are consumables. I like Witte but they aren't that popular here. The key thing is something that is comfortable in your hand.
5.depends on what you do and like. Go to the store and play with some, but what you like.
6: loaded question, get a little one, a 4lb one, and dead blow. Buy more as needed
7:Vim or just go to the Snap on gold bits
8: Get a 29pc index of Norseman or Chicago Latrobe or something. The harbor freight step bits are great or spend more.
9: mitutoyo if you really care (they are nicer than the cheapies if you abuse them) but the $20-30 Chinese specials do the job just fine and you can have 4 pairs instead of 1
10:I don't regret spending money on a snap on Tech wrench at all but a couple of CDI spring wrenches or a gear wrench digital is more than adequate for the home shop.
11:Klein blue handled 8 inch or Knipex 10 inch and Klein kurve strippers
12: Mayhew or Dasco
13: pry bars Mayhew

Honestly what you are looking for is pretty subjective. Lots of good tools out there and the only way for you to know what is right for you is using them.

 

[ChevyEFI]

Nothing beats hands-on experience in narrowing down what works for you. But,

Referring back to the Haynes manuals for cars, they always recommended starting low budget on tools, and upgrading when something sucked, or failed. If you bought "everything" cheap, and replaced for clearance, failure, ergonomics, design, etc. with upgraded SO rigjt off the truck, you'd be money ahead and have functionality where you *needed* it.

I have war-era SO 3/8 extensions. And a cheap fluted oil filter socket. What the SO ext. have is a male drive end that is rounded and shorter than some otherwise fine Taiwan extensions, which makes the fluted socket reach the filter. Other extensions don't let the filter sit in the socket.

My point is, on some hardline tools you'll use thousands of times in your life, sometimes skipping the cheap stuff makes a difference worth buying. You'll figure out where to put your money by working. Not by requesting a silver platter here.

 

[ZRX61]

Sunex impact sockets.

 

[Dakotadadv8]

So many good brands out there and good info from GJ. I was in the same situation home gamer over 20 years ago did fine with Craftsman hand tools and sets to maintain and repair my own vehicles and do home improvement projects. Upgraded to Snapon over the years based on GJ's SO must haves, IMHO a luxury not a necessity.

 

[PugetDude]

I'm not a tool truck guy, so here are what I've been using for the last 40 years.

Estwing hammers for the win- they will last your lifetime and the heads won't loosen like a wooden handled hammer.

Pliers- Channelock or USA Craftsman. Avoid Knipex Needle Nose, the rest are good; their mini bolt cutters are fantastic.

Locking Pliers-really only one choice- Old stock Peterson Vise Grips, the ones made in DeWitt, Nebraska- not the newer Irwin versions.

I like SK for screwdrivers. I have a bunch (40+) of the red and black handled Craftsman Professional screwdrivers, but not that impressed with them.

Most of my wrenches are older USA Craftsman- I've never had one break. I do have a set of Gearwrench ratcheting combo wrenches- wouldn't buy them again.

As much as I despise Justin Amash, Tekton sockets aren't a bad choice for someone just starting out. I have a full set of older USA Craftman SAE, but my Metric stuff is mostly older SK or newer Tekton.

This is going to be somewhat controversial but really like the HF composite fine tooth ratchets and the 1/4" Titan mini-ratchets- I find myself reaching past my Tektons for them. My old Craftsman ratchets haven't been out of the tool drawer in over a year.

 

[tool_scrounge]

Historically I have liked the value of Tekton, but the prices have really gone up lately. I had to outfit a tool box at work about 18 months ago and bought 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 SAE and metric socket sets + other tools. I kept a spreadsheet of everything purchased in case I needed to do this again, Recently I was going to buy an identical setup for another lab and I check the new prices. Everything Tekton was 50% more than 18 months ago.

 

[CHI_Tool&Die]

Vaughan ball pein hammers. Estwing hammers are awesome but the Vaughans are good quality for a better price.

Mayhew and Proto punch sets. Always true and can take a beating.

Pferd used to make awesome files in Germany. Pricey but cut like butter. I don't know if they are still manufactured there as I'm hearing conflicting things. Bahco files would be my second recommendation.

Starrett 120A-6 for calipers. The best. If you need a bigger scale or want digital, Mitutoyo.

 

[twinturbo]

As a "weekend warrior" myself wrenching on my own stuff for the past 15 years, here's what I like:
Screwdrivers - Wera, Snap-On, Wiha, Vessel
Picks/hooks - Snap-On
Pry-bars - Snap-On
Wrenches - Snap-On
Ratchets - Snap-On all the way
Sockets - Snap-On, Tekton
Impact Sockets it seems like even the cheapo ones do the job
Pliers - Knipex, Snap-On, Vampliers/Engineer/Tsunoda, Blue-Point electrical crimper, hose cutter, Vise-Grip locking pliers, ChannelLock
Torque wrench if digital - Snap-On if clicky, Tekton, Wera, Snap-on
Cordless - 12/18v Milwaukee, I prefer the Snap-on electric ratchets so I kept these
I like my Snapon 14v hood light, ECARB042 lights and Milwaukee m12 flashlights and rechargeable flashlights.

 

[Gurp]

Really depends on what you want to spend V how much tool you want.

Myself I get a lot of used stuff. More bang for your buck. The downside is the time it takes to aquire it.

As far as the basics go
Wrenches Tekton
Impact sockets really doesn't matter they hold up to Weekend warrior stuff.
Sockets I use Quinn from HF with good success.
Ratchets composite HF 1/4 and 3/8
Then used USA brands snappy proto and wright
Hammers. Whatever is heavy and handy.
Beyond that it depends on what you work on for what you need.
I do a lot of motorcycle work on vintage Jap bikes. So I use vessel screwdrivers for that.
A ex-tec multimeter. Saving for that used fluke.

Torque wrench is a Tekton 3/8 and HF 1/4 and a used proto 1/2 I think.

Mac line wrenches.

Proto SAE wrenches


Milwaukee cordless stuff. Slowly buying used as I find a deal.


Car jack Daytona and Pittsburgh Pro.

 

[Xcursion88]

I M O

1. Sockets & extensions: 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 (impact only) SK
2. Ratchets ( flex-head? ): 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 Snap on FLF80A is the best
3. Wrenches ( ratcheting flex-head, 6pt or 12pt?): SK X-Frames are excellent. No swivel. No offset. The tooth count is higher than anything by a mile. (The swing is almost nothing to get them to ratchet)
4. Screwdriver set:
Any USA made brand
5. Pilers:
Knipex are the top of the hill
6. Hammers:
SO ball peen filled with shot. It hits harder than any comparable sledge
7. Torx bits / hex / allen sockets:
Whichever USA company is easiest for you to warranty as you will mess these up.
8. Drill / step bits ( for Milwaukee m18 ) Dewalt step bits are the best.
9. Calipers:
The only thing I'd recommend from Harbor Freight. You aren't doing precision machine work. Get the HF digitals for cheap
10. Torque wrenches:
whichever USA made that is easy for you to get calibration on shoukd the need arise
11. Wire crimper/cutter:
MAc opend furthest
12. Soldering tool:
Any that uses butane
(Also great for doing shrink tube around gas tanks
2. Punch set: Any USA made
13. Pry bar / files: Same as above

good luck in your endeavor.

include some wobble extensions..
Swivel joints for impact use since a whole imlact swivel socket set is really expensive

breaker bars..
One big *** long 1/2" ratchet

 

[lardy1]

Putting together a tool collection was a lot of fun for me. I hit it big on some things and ended up with a dud on others. Personal preference reigns in the hand tool kingdom. There are as many tool companies as there are tools, it seems. Asking for recommendations is a bit like taking your **** out in the henhouse.

I truly suspect a large part of the suggestions are based in justifying our own choices. I read the threads pretty thoroughly but if I'm in the market I have a handful of users here that seem to have wide experience with multiple manufacturers and don't seem to carry a heavy prejudice. Others are as predictable as small children. Knowing who you're reading is sometimes as informational as what you are reading.

 

[Ton ton]

I like Carlyle dead blow ball pein hammers.

 

[Kscardsfan]

Buy used when possible. Literally pay pennies on the dollar for your stuff. Otherwise you seem to have the brands figured out just fine. The only thing I would add is don’t rule out the harbor freight cheap-o 1/2” impact sockets With a coupon. They’re only $20 and if you lose one you won’t feel bad about it.

 

[finn]

You’re over thinking this. Unless you’re a professional mechanic, SnapOn is an ego booster, but not worth the money. This coming from someone who has accumulated lots of SnapOn sockets, ratchets, wrenches, and pry bars over the years.

Concentrate more on buying mid grade tools, but a wide variety of them. Watch for sales. For example, I probably have two or three dozen SnapOn sockets, but I mostly use the 200 piece Husky sockets I got after Christmas at Home Depot for sixty or eighty dollars a couple of years ago, mostly because they’re nicely organized on socket organizers. The bolts and nuts can’t tell the difference between the inexpensive Husky, SK, Craftsman, Crescent, or SnapOn sockets in the box. I have lost far more sockets over the last fifty years than I have broken, probably by a factor of ten.

Same with wrenches. Many here love the Wrights and Snapons, and I have both, but I usually reach for my old SK, Craftsman, or the Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches.

Spend some money on decent battery impact wrenches. My Dewalt Atomic outperforms my Milwaukee, although the Milwaukees are nice tools in their own right.

Same for auxiliary equipment like welders, scanners, code readers, voltmeters and test lights. They’re far more useful than designer wrenches, screwdrivers, ratchets, or sockets. You also need a good compressor, overhead shop lights, multiple outlets and extension cords. Don’t forget recip saws, grinders, and drills.

The only thing from Harbor freight I would recommend is the five drawer cart, and composite ratchet (it’s great in freezing weather because it doesn’t transfer heat away from your fingers).

 

[Ton ton]

I would take the buying used hand tools advice with a grain of salt. I have seen what certain hand tools on the vintage tool thread are selling for. It's getting nuts. Yes , buying new can be salty. But there's definitely more expensive ways to buy tools.

 

[kbeefy]

Trusty Cook used to sell hammer blems, got some great deals from them. They also usually have some sort of deals around the various holidays.

Their 43 oz 'Stubby' deadblow has become my go to hammer for almost everything deadblow.

Trusty Cook

Knipex Plier wrench is also a go to tool. There is an Icon version sold at HF available now, I don't have any experience with it but it gets good reviews if you want a chinese knipex. Chipex?

I have alot of gearwrench products, I know their not USA but they usually are a very good value.

I use my cordless impacts more than anything else, they aren't necessary, but they sure make things quicker.

 

[four.cycle]

You’re over thinking this. Unless you’re a professional mechanic, SnapOn is an ego booster, but not worth the money.

^ Best advice I've seen posted on this website all week.

 

[jayemm]

For impact sockets, I just picked these up at the post office this morning. I haven't used them yet but think it's worth checking out since Amazon is easy to deal with and the prices aren't too hateful considering the sizes included, come with a case (no plastic tree) and made in Taiwan. Even though made of chrome vanadium instead of chrome molybdenum, I wouldn't let it bother me. Read what Tekton's website says about the subject.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092YQK85Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20 (no skipped sizes like HF and others)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JLBQV2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[richfinn]

I've slowly come to the conclusion that it's kind of a good idea to buy tools from brands that specialise in a particular area if you want high end quality at reasonable cost.

This would be where I might start

Sockets - Ko-ken (Snap-On Ratchets are one area I would give them the nod)

Screwdrivers - Vessel

Wrenches - Stahlwille

Pliers - Knipex/NWS

Buy cutting tools (drill bits etc) from a local specialist like PRESTO (I'm in the UK)

I never buy truck brand consumables (they are all rebranded and available cheaper elsewhere)

I don't have a favourite brand for power tools or battery platforms, I look for deals and consider them a consumable with a 5 year lifespan

 

[Xcursion88]

As I suspected you got a ton of responses with most ignoring your USA importance.

Ask yourself this....

If COO (country of origin) is important to you...

You will never be satisfied until you get what you want.
A USA made socket removes the nut the same as an Asian made. It's true the fastener doesn't know or care where the tool comes from.....

BUT....

The most important one who knows is you.


If you really want USA made or non Asian you will ultimately buy this **** twice because you will always be thinking about what "you could have bought"

To add...

If you have any cordless tools or want to get (I see you mentioned Milwaukee) just know the only MFG that makes in the USA is DeWalt.
They don't make everything here but they do make a decent amount.

 

[Olafur]

If I was a starting out as weekend warrior (or professional mechanic for that matter), and being U.S. citizen (I am not BTW) with perhaps not so tight budget - I would be tempted to prioritize buying U.S. made tools to support my own economy. I would perhaps make exceptions here and there if I really wanted something else. I would keep in mind the so called Truck Brands, aimed at professionals, come with extra costs that doesn't necessarily translate into quality over more affordable tools.

But If the aim is to get good tools for the lowest price, or rather maximize quality/price ratio - the game changes. In this scenario the Truck Brands are probably out of the picture more or less. And perhaps a lot of U.S. and European made tools in general with Taiwan and even China being strong candidates as COO.

For a weekend warrior (whatever that really means) I recommend buying tools gradually as you go and develop your skills.

 

[boom_bap]

As a weekend warrior don't get stuck too much on USA only. I'd go some USA some Taiwan some German (knipex) etc. Shop around. You don't need the best of the best as a weekend warrior. There is a lot of quality tools that can get the job done and still last a lifetime without breaking the bank. Becareful listening to people who tell you to buy tools that aren't represented in our country. How will you warrany them? They might be great, but your SOL if you have an issue.

Pry Bars:
Snap-on 24 inch pry bar: $86 bucks.
Mayhew Dominator (12, 17, 25) Pry Bar Set: $70 bucks.

Both USA made both quality. One much better option for your dollar IMO.

Snap-on ratchet: $$$
Import Ratchet with full socket set shallows and deeps, ext and swivel in 3/8 and 1/4: Still less than snap-on and actually usable without more expense.

You can guess what I'd pick. I'm all for USA made and absolutely buy USA made when it makes sense for me.

Pliers:
Snap-on: $$$$$
Channel lock: $

Channellock is a no brainer. As a DIY there isn't any reason to not go Channellock over Tool Truck unless you have money to throw in the fire.

Spend your money wisely, since your tools may not be making you more money as a weekend warrior depending on what you plan to do. I use Snap-On as my example comparisons since Snap-on makes the best USA tools.


Heres what I can tell you from my limited experience.

1. Sockets & extensions: 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 (impact only)
Sunex 3/8 and 1/2 drive. Get full sets shallow and deep. 6pt
Any quality chrome 3/8 if you don't go 3/8 impact. 6pt
Any quality chrome 1/4 inch. As a DIY no need for speed on engines and trannys. 6pt.


2. Ratchets ( flex-head? ): 1/4, 3/8, 1/2
- Locking flex head. Gearwrench has been ok so far to me. - Taiwan
- Tekton 90T are ok as well. - Taiwan

3. Wrenches ( ratcheting flex-head, 6pt or 12pt?):
I've got Craftsman USA (not made anymore)
Tekton - Taiwan
I prefer the Craftsman. Tekton wrenches do the job 100% of the time but the fit isn't as good.
If I were going to buy wrenches after what I know today I'd go Wright Grip - USA.

4. Screwdriver set:
Craftsman - USA (not made anymore)
If I needed more, I'd get for somethign JIS - Japan.
IMO don't waste money on Screwdrivers. I use a impact drive or dill most of the time anyways. I use screw drivers when I fix stuff around the house more than automotive.

5. Pilers:
Knipex Plier Wrench and Cobras - Germany
Channel lock - USA - everything else (needle nose, Slip joints, tough and groove, etc).

6. Hammers:
Estwing Mini Sledge, Chipping Hammer - USA
Trusty Cook -dead blow - USA
Other Cheap options are good to. You are just beating on stuff so..

7. Torx bits / hex / allen sockets:
VIM Allens have been great - Taiwan.

8. Drill / step bits ( for Milwaukee m18 )
Black oxide bits for steel - Cheap dewalts are ok - USA
Cobalt if your spendy
Step bits are garbage I wouldn't bother.

9. Calipers:
?

10. Torque wrenches:
- Anything calibrated you trust.

11. Wire crimper/cutter:
Channel lock crimper - USA
Knipex Cutters - Germany

12. Soldering tool:
Hako FX888D

12. Punch set:
Mayhew Punches - USA

13. Pry bar / files:
Mayhew Pry Bars - USA
Nicholson Files - USA

You didn't mention lights, but get some lights. They'll help you do work under the car or later in the evening / night if you work outside. Whatever powertools you get (Dewalt, Milwaukee) have options for the batteries you'll already have. Astro would be my additional choice. Can't have too many lights.

Don't forget safety glasses and wear them, ear protection if you impact a lot, nitrile gloves. FLuids are nasty chemicals protect yourself.

Happy wrenching.

 

[lkjk]

What are all you guys with the snap on stuff doing on your vehicles as a weekend/DIY person? I've worked on cars for almost 20 years, mostly suspension stuff (lifts, weld on stuff) on 4x4s but done plenty of brake jobs, water pumps, random bs on a bunch of different vehicles.

Compared to most people here, a lot of my mechanic stuff is probably junk. Lots of craftsman (usa stuff), HF, GW. That said, outside of my pry bars I have no idea why i'd upgrade or wish i would have spent more in the first place, and I've done a lot more wrenching than anyone in my circles.

If it's just to have to say you have, i get it, but personally i'd say save your money on mechanics tools (as a DIY person) and spend it where it definitely does matter (like if you get into building things/woodworking/metalworking)

 

[Citation]

For a shade tree most of the stuff on the market is decent enough. My wrenches and sockets are mostly Craftsman from 20-30 years ago. While I like that they are mostly made in USA, in general I haven't seen that the new StanleyB&D stuff would be functionally any worse. I also have some Crescent branded combo wrenches and some Kobalt combo wrenches. The Kobalts are my least favorite but I picked up all 22 wrenches (metric and SAE) for under $20 new so no arguments there!

I'm a bit pickier about the ratchet handles but only a bit. I don't like the older Cman 32t stuff. Most of the newer ratchets are good enough and the differences are largely preference. By good enough I mean you aren't likely to fail to get a job done because you bought the Kobalt instead of the Tekton or Snap-On of the same size. What I do recommend is getting things like a set of flex head or roto head ratchets. Also have a long handle and standard length handle. When getting sockets make sure your 3/8 drive has a good election of both smaller (say down to 10mm) and larger (say up to 21mm) sockets. I broke my first 1/4 drive because a the only 14mm socket-ratchet combination I had that fit on some job was a my 1/4 drive... plus a cheater pipe... yeah that didn't work too many times. If you don't have a good set of deep sockets, get a 1" extension. Many sets come with 3" but I found that was typically too long. I typically use deep sockets not because I need the deep interior of the socket, rather I need the ratchet handle about 1" further than a typical shallow socket allows. In addition to a 1" extension, a 14 or even 28" extension is just the ticket for a few jobs. Get a set of hex sockets. Mine are Walmart discount ones I found on the clearance rack. I haven't pushed them and they haven't let me down. Quite handy vs using the typical hexkey.

When it comes to combo wrenches it's nice to have both a standard length and long handle version. With the open end I do like to see a nice crisp edge between the flats that touch the nut and the top and bottom surfaces of the wrench. My theory is that will help the wrench grip just a bit better in a case where you are starting to slip off a nut that is starting to turn. When dealing with nice clean bolts most tools are fine. It's when you are dealing with the edge cases where the difference between good and cheap can show up. Easy access with no corrosion won't require that perfect Snap-On fit.

Get a range of pliers. Again, in other than the true bottom of the barrel stuff I have found the better tools often aren't worth the extra cost for a shade tree. Sometimes they are but your mileage may vary from mine.

I would really recommend getting an air compressor. It doesn't have to be big and one of the low noise models is certainly nicer than a noisy one. It's just really nice to have air for tire and for a blow gun. I think Walmart has a Goodyear branded quiet compressor for under $200. I like it better than the similar California Air Tools I have.

Things like soldering tools really depend on your needs. Lots of decent, generic stuff out there.

I really like iGaging for a good caliper value.

I don't have a strong preference for cordless drills. Lots of models are good enough. Ryobi is attractive mostly because they are OK but the price is low so you might end up with more tools vs DeWalt where the price is much higher. When getting drill bits consider getting a step bit/Unibit. They are very handy when drilling through thin material as they don't tend to grab as you break through. I have both a Irwin (good) and Harbor Freight version (OK so long as the material is soft).

 

[twinturbo]

What are all you guys with the snap on stuff doing on your vehicles as a weekend/DIY person? I've worked on cars for almost 20 years, mostly suspension stuff (lifts, weld on stuff) on 4x4s but done plenty of brake jobs, water pumps, random bs on a bunch of different vehicles.

Compared to most people here, a lot of my mechanic stuff is probably junk. Lots of craftsman (usa stuff), HF, GW. That said, outside of my pry bars I have no idea why i'd upgrade or wish i would have spent more in the first place, and I've done a lot more wrenching than anyone in my circles.

If it's just to have to say you have, i get it, but personally i'd say save your money on mechanics tools (as a DIY person) and spend it where it definitely does matter (like if you get into building things/woodworking/metalworking)

Don't get me wrong, I started with cheap tools aswell but replaced where needed with tools that are more of pleasure to work with and help me avoid stripping bolts and whatnot. Did I need all the nice tools to get most jobs done? No. But I really enjoy working on my cars and my projects when I do need something done. The tools will last me a lifetime and I have no plans to ever stop working on my cars so why would I not have nice tools that make my life easy and I enjoy using?

You say spend it where it matters... this is where it matters to me and probably many others aswell

 

[finn]

What are all you guys with the snap on stuff doing on your vehicles as a weekend/DIY person? I've worked on cars for almost 20 years, mostly suspension stuff (lifts, weld on stuff) on 4x4s but done plenty of brake jobs, water pumps, random bs on a bunch of different vehicles.

Compared to most people here, a lot of my mechanic stuff is probably junk. Lots of craftsman (usa stuff), HF, GW. That said, outside of my pry bars I have no idea why i'd upgrade or wish i would have spent more in the first place, and I've done a lot more wrenching than anyone in my circles.

If it's just to have to say you have, i get it, but personally i'd say save your money on mechanics tools (as a DIY person) and spend it where it definitely does matter (like if you get into building things/woodworking/metalworking)

Like I said, my SnapOn, while excellent tools, are mostly an ego trip. They really only do the same work as the other tools in the box, all things considered.

 

[ZRX61]

What are all you guys with the snap on stuff doing on your vehicles as a weekend/DIY person? I've worked on cars for almost 20 years, mostly suspension stuff (lifts, weld on stuff) on 4x4s but done plenty of brake jobs, water pumps, random bs on a bunch of different vehicles.

Compared to most people here, a lot of my mechanic stuff is probably junk. Lots of craftsman (usa stuff), HF, GW. That said, outside of my pry bars I have no idea why i'd upgrade or wish i would have spent more in the first place, and I've done a lot more wrenching than anyone in my circles.

If it's just to have to say you have, i get it, but personally i'd say save your money on mechanics tools (as a DIY person) and spend it where it definitely does matter (like if you get into building things/woodworking/metalworking)

I agree 100%. Been a mechanic & restoring stuff since the mid-70's. Started right out of HS 46 years ago. Started on Jags, then Kawasaki's, then specialist vehicles for the Sahara & then aircraft (& guns, wood butchery, welding etc).

Snap On stuff that was given to me:
HUGE screwdriver.
3/8 drive Whitworth/BS socket set.
Doodad for Dzus fasteners on aircraft engine cowls etc.

Snap On stuff I actually bought:
Doodad for Ford ignition switches on steering columns (needed it for my '86 F350).
10mm Combo wrench.

Snap On stuff I'm not sure about, but probably bought:
1/4 drive 8mm socket.
1/4 drive 8mm swivel socket.

I think that covers the entirety of my Snappy stuff.


All my other stuff looks like it represents the United Nations: US, UK, Taiwan, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, Spain, India, China, Japan, Russia, Holland, Mexico & probably a few I'm forgetting.

The only SnapOn tool I actually needed was the thingie for Ford ignition switches.... which I used twice about 25 years ago.

 

[richfinn]

Like I said, my SnapOn, while excellent tools, are mostly an ego trip. They really only do the same work as the other tools in the box, all things considered.

There's a few exceptions for me where the Snap-On version is a must have tool, mostly due to compact dimensions or sheer strength (and I'm no Snap-On fan boy)

The Flexhead ratchets/breaker bars are the best I've used, and some specialist spanners and sockets are essentials.

Snappy Screwdrivers/pliers/power tools/consumables etc. I can live without

I think a "Snap-On essentials" thread would be quite good to guide buyers to their best products

 

[boom_bap]

I think a "Snap-On essentials" thread would be quite good to guide buyers to their best products

I think that is the point a lot of us are trying to drive home. For the average DIY there aren't really any essentials from Snap-On that aren't made 90% by someone else at much better return on investment.

 

[four.cycle]

^ The ONLY Snap-on branded tool that I ever needed was a set of 1/4" drive deep-well metric 12-points, because when I bought the truck (which has all kinds of little 12-point fasteners everywhere) nobody else made them.

Other than that, I've managed quite nicely. For a long time.

YMMV

refer back to post #23

 

[Bubba Fett]

Looking for suggestions on tools & brands to outfit my toolbox. I work on my own cars & plan on improving my skills each year. Looking to buy quality tools once, so I am willing to pay a higher price if needed. Although I've heard good things about Taiwanese tools, I'd prefer to stick to the USA-made brands unless you guys suggest otherwise. I've been looking at these brands so far; Snap-on, Mac, SK, Wright, Williams USA, Ko-Ken, Knipex ( for pilers ), & trusty Cook (for hammers).

Looking for recommendations for:

1. Sockets & extensions: 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 (impact only)
2. Ratchets ( flex-head? ): 1/4, 3/8, 1/2
3. Wrenches ( ratcheting flex-head, 6pt or 12pt?):
4. Screwdriver set:
5. Pilers:
6. Hammers:
7. Torx bits / hex / allen sockets:
8. Drill / step bits ( for Milwaukee m18 )
9. Calipers:
10. Torque wrenches:
11. Wire crimper/cutter:
12. Soldering tool:
12. Punch set:
13. Pry bar / files:

Thank you in advance.

If you are just starting out and have a limited budget, HF is fine. Pay no attention to the brands. Turn the package over and check country of origin. Typically, tools made in Taiwan are gonna be better than tools made in China. There are a lot of USA-made options, but mostly online and you may have to search for them. I'd stay away from Snap-On, or the other truck brands unless you want to spend more money doing it yourself then taking it to the shop.

Sockets/extensions/bit sockets: Williams, Proto, SK. These can eat up a lot of funds, so most anything made in Taiwan will suffice. I'd recommend sets that don't skip sizes, like Tekton.

Ratchets: Williams, Proto, SK, Tekton, Crescent. Same with sockets. Taiwan-made ratchets are pretty darn good, and a better bang for the buck. However, I see nothing wrong with splurging on a "good" one.

Wrenches: Williams, Proto, SK, and anything made in Taiwan. There are not that many manufacturers, so go with whoever has the best deal or warranty, and lean towards brands that don't skip sizes. Snap-On is fine, but they are pricey. Tekton has USA-made angle wrenches.

Screwdrivers: Proto, Williams hard handle, or Tekton. Klein for electrical/household. All of those are USA-made. Vessel (Japan) are excellent, as are the German brands. For precision stuff, my favorite is Wiha. Look around at yard sales, etc. for old big ones that you can use as beaters.

Pliers: Klein, Channellock, and Ideal for USA-made tools. But the Germans are great at pliers: Knipex, NWS.

Locking Pliers: Bremen at Harbor Freight are the best bang for the buck. For really nice (USA-made) ones, go with Malco.

Hammers: Estwing and Vaughan. For hammers you don't use as much, it's fine to go with an import brand.

Drill bits are a consumable item. Most of the brands at big box stores are gonna be fine, especially for drilling wood or plastic. For metal you might want to go with Norseman (USA made, but $$$).

Calipers: Hard to say. They either fall into cheap or crazy pricey categories. I've heard good things about iGaging.

Torque wrenches: CDI for the really good ones, but Tekton has pretty good ones for the price. Most of the Tiawan-made ones are all made by the same OEM.

Wire cutters, strippers, and crimpers: Klein or Ideal.

Shears/Snips: Malco, Midwest, or Wiss.

Soldering Tool: Hakko or Weller.

Punches: Mayhew.

Pry bars: Mayhew or Wilde. If you want to save some money, go to Wal-Mart (seriously) and get the Hypertough prybars with the striking cap. They are made by Wilde in USA. You will not find a better deal.

Files: Nicholson. Files seem to be bountiful at flea markets, garage sales, etc. Get them, clean them, remove the rust, and get a good handle. Get as many shapes and sizes as you can.