Starter tool set

[Mr_B]

15pc carlyle sets look cheaper to me over filling in singles on the channellock sets .

 

[Parrothead]

15pc carlyle sets look cheaper to me over filling in singles on the channellock sets .

Apples to apples

Carlyle 11pc metric combination wrench set $100
https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/CHQCWL1211M

Channellock 10pc metric combination wrench set $50
https://www.doitbest.com/products/347175

Channellock 16mm combination wrench $9.50
https://www.doitbest.com/products/347175

So back to my oranges to oranges, you’re looking at $100 vs $60 in essence.

Now, if you’re really expanding your set to include a lot of the bigger sizes, you’ll have to do the math to see what makes sense.

There are some cheaper places to pick up the individual Channellocks online than Do It Best.

 

[Mr_B]

^
Yeh it not bad based on 10pc.
I had the 15pc sae set for 100bucks which pretty decent price with warranty, normally can be had 120 range.
channellock wrenches certainly worth knowing about, see they do a 17pc set at around 150bucks . one keep an eye on for a promo/sale .

 

[Musicinabottle]

#1 Like Parrothead said he needs the stuff now so he can start his job and get a paycheck.

#2 We didn't suggest one item made in China (as an aside Bosch makes the Hub Grappler in China and I defy you to find a better hub tool set for $500, I suspect the Germans have a QC team on site though).

I don't disagree with you and I will support American manufacturing anytime I can but when someone comes on here looking for advice we should give the best we can within the budget and let ideological debate rest until a more appropriate thread. Be proud of him though; he found that used Williams set.

I wasn't so much preaching buy made in USA doctrine as I was trying to point out buying USA, used. Especially right now during tax returns, I've seen some incredibly smoking deals on USA made tool sets on craigslist. As an Example, I recently spotted a complete Older Proto 3/4 inch drive set with extensions and original box for $60. This is what I was talking about, and I considered it useful info. I have found some amazing deals on individual items at the second hand stores and pawn shops around my area as well.

 

[Bryanthegreat]

Gearwrench 15 Pc sets are at my local Menards for 59.99. Pretty hard to beat and they look like nice wrenches. 11% rebate right now too. You can have them shipped if there is no Menards near you.

 

[bigjeff94]

This is my truck toolbox. I lucked out and got a good deal on a craftsman usa set a few years ago when they were closing them out a few years back. Got a 250 piece set for about 140 bucks. Added some extras. Can do quite a bit of work with this set.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

 

[ez-duzit]

94--nothing wrong with Craftsman USA. Bought my first in the '50's.

 

[Tallpilot]

I wasn't so much preaching buy made in USA doctrine as I was trying to point out buying USA, used. Especially right now during tax returns, I've seen some incredibly smoking deals on USA made tool sets on craigslist. As an Example, I recently spotted a complete Older Proto 3/4 inch drive set with extensions and original box for $60. This is what I was talking about, and I considered it useful info. I have found some amazing deals on individual items at the second hand stores and pawn shops around my area as well.

I don't disagree with you brother! When somebody comes on here and says "I want to replace my *** with something better." that type of advice is awesome.

When someone comes here and says 'I lost my job driving a wrecker because the owner got tired of the hassle and shut it down. I think I found a job changing oil on everything from chainsaws to forklifts...I need sockets and wrenches SAE and metric ASAP up to 1-1/4"'

Do you understand how "Check some yard sales for good deals on USA made stuff" is nothing short of worthless? That is what about 10 people do on every thread like this. Please do not take this as a personal attack. I am doing one of those in my next reply so stand by to enjoy that.

It is just such a disservice to the people who come here hat in hand looking for advice. This guy told us his story and what he needs which is a full set of sockets and wrenches up to 1-1/4" that will stand up to professional use and he needs it right NOW so he can start work and not irritate his coworkers by not having what he needs and irritate his boss because his coworkers are complaining that the FNG is asking to borrow tools every 5 minutes.

Parrothead showed him how for under $400 (the OP's stated budget) and about 5 minutes of clicking his mouse and 3 days shipping time he could get what he asked for. In this case, sockets and wrenches that would hold up reasonably well in professional use.

With all due respect and thank you for taking the time to reply to me. You are not wrong and there is nothing better than a good score on some used USA stuff for cheap. It would be much more helpful if we answered his actual question with the tools he asked for not the *** made in USA we just saw on Craigslist for a good price. That doesn't help him and should be put in another thread if it is worthwhile knowledge.

 

[SilverBulletZ06]

I use Kobalt tools from Lowe's. They're good enough quality, lifetime warranty, and sold single as well as in kits, so you can always get what you need. Their 300 piece runs between $200-300 usually and includes combo wrenches. They have a good selection of specialty sockets, too. My pliers are Ironton from Northern Tool. Nothing special, but it was $90 for the set and a rack. I buy HF impacts because I won't cry when they break.

I've had a few different boxes, but most of my commonly used stuff is in a HF 5-drawer cart. I honestly wish that I had bought it years ago. I like the more expensive Northern variant with the sliding tops, but I'll pocket the $300 difference and live with my choice.

The new 189 piece mechanics set is all 6 point and comes with less of the filler and more useable items despite its cost to piece compared to other sets.

 

[Musicinabottle]

I don't disagree with you brother! When somebody comes on here and says "I want to replace my *** with something better." that type of advice is awesome.

When someone comes here and says 'I lost my job driving a wrecker because the owner got tired of the hassle and shut it down. I think I found a job changing oil on everything from chainsaws to forklifts...I need sockets and wrenches SAE and metric ASAP up to 1-1/4"'

Do you understand how "Check some yard sales for good deals on USA made stuff" is nothing short of worthless? That is what about 10 people do on every thread like this. Please do not take this as a personal attack. I am doing one of those in my next reply so stand by to enjoy that.

It is just such a disservice to the people who come here hat in hand looking for advice. This guy told us his story and what he needs which is a full set of sockets and wrenches up to 1-1/4" that will stand up to professional use and he needs it right NOW so he can start work and not irritate his coworkers by not having what he needs and irritate his boss because his coworkers are complaining that the FNG is asking to borrow tools every 5 minutes.

Parrothead showed him how for under $400 (the OP's stated budget) and about 5 minutes of clicking his mouse and 3 days shipping time he could get what he asked for. In this case, sockets and wrenches that would hold up reasonably well in professional use.

With all due respect and thank you for taking the time to reply to me. You are not wrong and there is nothing better than a good score on some used USA stuff for cheap. It would be much more helpful if we answered his actual question with the tools he asked for not the *** made in USA we just saw on Craigslist for a good price. That doesn't help him and should be put in another thread if it is worthwhile knowledge.

My bad. I didn't pick that up in his original post. I thought he said he might possibly have a job...... Looking for some tools for ** budget. Didn't make the connection that he needed tools right this second for the job he starts tomorrow morning.

 

[Tallpilot]

This has never been established. Buying in bulk will ALWAYS result in a lower per tool cost.

Let me attempt to establish it then!

Since this is an economic problem we get to assume since that is what every economic theory does. Let's assume that everything except the sockets in the kit is junk. 158 sockets + 48 bit sockets for $199 without a coupon. $.966 per socket! Best deal ever right?

13 of the bit sockets are slotted, phillips or square drive. The metric hex go to 14mm and the fractionals go to 1/2". The torx actually go from T10 to T70 which is awesome but we don't get TR Torx, TR+ Torx or External Torx+. So the master hex sets have 5 more sizes and the master torx sets have a lot more and we need to buy both since "buying in bulk will result in a lower per tool cost"

55 of the 158 sockets are deep...that makes sense...deep sockets have way more metal in them than shallows so they cost more money to make...so they left them out of the f*%ing set to reduce cost. But now I have to buy 103 deep sockets just to have a deep for each size I own. I hope the deep sets only include those sizes otherwise I am buying doubles since "buying in bulk will result in a lower per tool cost"

The 1/2" deeps stop at 15/16" and 24mm the shallows go to 32mm and 1-1/4 so more deeps to buy.

Parrothead's Tekton selection is $1.59 per socket but includes some overlap and has a deep for every shallow that the HF set. My suggestion for the full 1/2" set is $1.66 per socket but is deep and shallow up to 32mm and 1-5/16"

So for $200 you could have 158 sockets but need to buy 103 more to have shallow and deep in each size or 180 sockets with a shallow and deep in each size. Yes, the per tool cost is lower but then you have to buy singles or overlap sets to have a complete set so the total cost is now more to have the same thing. Yes, you need another $100 or so to have a complete bit set but you would spend almost that anyway to complete the half bit set in the HF 301.

My original quote : However I hope we have already established that the savings from these big sets is relatively small compared to buying socket sets and wrench sets individually and you end up with more sizes and better quality.

 

[PJNJ]

These types of threads seem, on a regular basis, to devolve into whose advice is "more" right than others.

Oh well, I'm ready for my lecture now.

 

[Tallpilot]

My bad. I didn't pick that up in his original post. I thought he said he might possibly have a job...... Looking for some tools for ** budget. Didn't make the connection that he needed tools right this second for the job he starts tomorrow morning.

You are right...his original post didn't make it absolutely clear...only the subsequent follow up

These types of threads seem, on a regular basis, to devolve into whose advice is "more" right than others.

Oh well, I'm ready for my lecture now.

Not my intention! Forgive me if I came across as pedantic. I do in fact want my advice to be the best. If it isn't I would like it to be 'peer reviewed' so we can all learn. Please explain where my analysis is incorrect and I will learn too.

This is how progress is made...someone makes a best attempt then someone else challenges it...when all of the challenges are answered we will have distilled the actual truth.

 

[ez-duzit]

...Will possibly starting as a lube tech at a equipment rental place...

...I need sockets and wrenches SAE and metric ASAP...

That's not what he said at all.

 

[Specs]

I though he had some and wanted to upgrade to better... my engrish no so gud edur...

 

[Blind1]

This is easy...

TEKTON

3/8 Socket Set - $50
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13101
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/2 Socket Set - $150
https://www.tekton.com/1-2-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13201
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/4 Socket Set - $45
https://www.tekton.com/1-4-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13001
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

Metric & SAE Combination Wrench Set - $90
https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191
8-22mm and 1/4" to 1"

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/16 - $15
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-16-inch-combination-wrench-18267

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/8 - $18
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-8-inch-combination-wrench-18268


GRAND TOTAL - $368

They also have the following combination wrenches... 6mm, 7mm, 23mm through 50mm should you be so inclined to need them. In SAE they go up to 2", so that should cover almost any need. All of the above is made in Taiwan

Lifetime warranty, with good tools.

I can vouch for the combination wrenches. I've used them to do brakes and suspension in the rust belt, and have beat on them with a 3lb mini sledge. Got the job done, though they're not quite as shiny as they once were. Hammers on chrome tend to do that. No chipping or peeling though.

You can also pick up some groove joint pliers, and slip joint pliers from them too. Those are USA made from Wilde. I like them better than Channellock at this point. In that vein, the Channellock adjustable wrenches are second to none. Made in Spain. The pry bars I'd pick up from Sears/Craftsman as they're cheaper and the same thing as the Tektons. Also USA made.

The rest you can pick and choose on your own, but that's a pretty good budget friendly start.

Yep... all of this. I beat on the sockets and wrenches with no problems. They have new reversible ratcheting wrenches too -very nice. I prefer the channel lock griplock pliers, and a three piece set is like $40. The Tekton USA made tongue and groove aren’t bad though. I have a pair in my truck. Better than the CL 440’s I have. If we are being honest with ourselves, most, if not everyone would do just fine with a decent set of pick-your-brand current Taiwan made tools. Unless you wanted to upgrade, you could use most of those for the rest of your career.

 

[PJNJ]

Not my intention! Forgive me if I came across as pedantic. I do in fact want my advice to be the best. If it isn't I would like it to be 'peer reviewed' so we can all learn. Please explain where my analysis is incorrect and I will learn too.

This is how progress is made...someone makes a best attempt then someone else challenges it...when all of the challenges are answered we will have distilled the actual truth.

Much of the advice given here by various posters is correct. It is incorrect to assume that there is only one given "correct" and "best" answer when giving advice and answers to these types of questions as posed by the OP. If you want to analyze others advice and "prove" why you are right is up to you. Frankly, I don't want to spend my time in a ******* match to try to prove who has the intellectually superior answer.

For instance, to me, the easiest course for the OP would be to go the particular shop where he expects to work and ask the current lube techs what tools they needed to take care of their tasks. That way, he could skip buying unnecessary tools in the beginning and possibly purchase a higher cost, quality core set of tools for his job. Then add as he deems necessary.

 

[Tallpilot]

That's not what he said at all.

I though he had some and wanted to upgrade to better... my engrish no so gud edur...

Please refer to my previous post. I did not intend to offend anyone or come across as a 'know it all.' At least half of what I know about tools I learned here. My only intention was to make sure we are helping the OP as much as we can and at the same time learning from each other by challenging opinions and sharing our own research. The more we share and discuss the more we all learn.

 

[Musicinabottle]

You are right...his original post didn't make it absolutely clear...only the subsequent follow up.

He must have mentioned it after I commented. If not, I needs to reads more clearly! Wouldn't be the first time that got me!

 

[PJNJ]

Do you understand how "Check some yard sales for good deals on USA made stuff" is nothing short of worthless? That is what about 10 people do on every thread like this. Please do not take this as a personal attack. I am doing one of those in my next reply so stand by to enjoy that.

It is just such a disservice to the people who come here hat in hand looking for advice. This guy told us his story and what he needs which is a full set of sockets and wrenches up to 1-1/4" that will stand up to professional use and he needs it right NOW so he can start work and not irritate his coworkers by not having what he needs and irritate his boss because his coworkers are complaining that the FNG is asking to borrow tools every 5 minutes.

And personal attacks are completely wrong and unnecessary. And anyone who enjoys reading an ad hominem attack has a screw loose.

 

[Tallpilot]

I should qualify my situation. After 18+ yrs of being a 3a tow operator. Our boss comes in one Monday at and tells us in 26 days he's closing the doors. So I do have some tools, I've used harbour freight impacts for years. But nothing "high end" like snap on, etc. I've never really spun wrenches for a living. So this is kinda a new experience for me. And it's strange being the "fng" again. I appreciate everyone's advice. And please keep them coming.

its a equipment rental company, so from chain saws to man lifts. delivery trucks to bobcats and more.. b.s.ing with a guy before my interview he said biggest wrench is 1 1/4" or so.

Much of the advice given here by various posters is correct. It is incorrect to assume that there is only one given "correct" and "best" answer when giving advice and answers to these types of questions as posed by the OP. If you want to analyze others advice and "prove" why you are right is up to you. Frankly, I don't want to spend my time in a ******* match to try to prove who has the intellectually superior answer.

For instance, to me, the easiest course for the OP would be to go the particular shop where he expects to work and ask the current lube techs what tools they needed to take care of their tasks. That way, he could skip buying unnecessary tools in the beginning and possibly purchase a higher cost, quality core set of tools for his job. Then add as he deems necessary.

Hmpf...looks like he already did what you so wisely suggested he do. Then he came here and asked us for the most cost effective way of doing it. I simply suggested that we have a duty to give him the best advice we can. His situation isn't ideal and he could use some help.

He also comes across as both humble and polite...rare traits here.

 

[Specs]

All good tall pilot, i’m not here to trump anyone, and if someone can take some of my advice and benefit from it, im happy. If i learn something along the way, even better. I’ve been making cars and computers malfunction since 2001, and im NOWHERE as knowledgeable as other members. I can safely say im still swinging a stick around blindfolded in a dark room with some of my advice... but i know i felt that light switch lmao

Im just in here now to see what direction OP took... and pictures... definitely definitely pictures

 

[PJNJ]

Hmpf...looks like he already did what you so wisely suggested he do. Then he came here and asked us for the most cost effective way of doing it. I simply suggested that we have a duty to give him the best advice we can. His situation isn't ideal and he could use some help.

He also comes across as both humble and polite...rare traits here.

Yeah in post #63 he says that the largest wrench goes up to 1 1/4". But did he get a list of what he needs. IDK do you? As for your sarcastic comment about "humble and polite" - you know where you can stick it. Remember to look up "ad hominem".

 

[JazzBlueRT]

Let me attempt to establish it then!

Since this is an economic problem we get to assume since that is what every economic theory does. Let's assume that everything except the sockets in the kit is junk. 158 sockets + 48 bit sockets for $199 without a coupon. $.966 per socket! Best deal ever right?

13 of the bit sockets are slotted, phillips or square drive. The metric hex go to 14mm and the fractionals go to 1/2". The torx actually go from T10 to T70 which is awesome but we don't get TR Torx, TR+ Torx or External Torx+. So the master hex sets have 5 more sizes and the master torx sets have a lot more and we need to buy both since "buying in bulk will result in a lower per tool cost"

55 of the 158 sockets are deep...that makes sense...deep sockets have way more metal in them than shallows so they cost more money to make...so they left them out of the f*%ing set to reduce cost. But now I have to buy 103 deep sockets just to have a deep for each size I own. I hope the deep sets only include those sizes otherwise I am buying doubles since "buying in bulk will result in a lower per tool cost"

The 1/2" deeps stop at 15/16" and 24mm the shallows go to 32mm and 1-1/4 so more deeps to buy.

Parrothead's Tekton selection is $1.59 per socket but includes some overlap and has a deep for every shallow that the HF set. My suggestion for the full 1/2" set is $1.66 per socket but is deep and shallow up to 32mm and 1-5/16"

So for $200 you could have 158 sockets but need to buy 103 more to have shallow and deep in each size or 180 sockets with a shallow and deep in each size. Yes, the per tool cost is lower but then you have to buy singles or overlap sets to have a complete set so the total cost is now more to have the same thing. Yes, you need another $100 or so to have a complete bit set but you would spend almost that anyway to complete the half bit set in the HF 301.

My original quote : However I hope we have already established that the savings from these big sets is relatively small compared to buying socket sets and wrench sets individually and you end up with more sizes and better quality.

You have established nothing other than an assumption that the OP may need to buy more tools, if that is the case, then the OP can start with a bigger set.

FWIW, the set I posted was

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-450-...ellerId=Sears&prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1#

Parts list

http://i.sears.com/s/d/pdf/mp-tc/10159174/prod_18880020012

If he wants a complete set for under $400, the 413 piece for $399.99 has a complete assortment of sockets and wrenches.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-413-...lerId=Sears&prdNo=10&blockNo=10&blockType=G10

parts list.

http://i.sears.com/s/d/pdf/mp-tc/10000595/prod_17660198212

Come with only 10 bits. That means it is $0.99 per tool, included sockets, wrenches, ratchets, breaker bars, extension bars and nut drivers.

We can even remove the 40 allen keys and it comes out to $1.01 per tool.

Match that parts list minus the bits and you will not find a lower per tool cost buying a hodgepodge.

There is a bulk set to meet any need and the cost per tool will always be lower.

Lets do an exercise, match the parts list of the 413 piece set with your hodgepodge and show me the cost savings.

 

[Specs]

Snap on Vs Wrench series from olden times ... for larger than preset wrench sets... as old as they are, I dismantled a 1996 rusted suspension of a 1996 suburban with the 27mm/ 1-1/16” wrench... also closed XV box wrenches are pretty serious too. The biggest i seen is 1-7/8 and 1-15/16... worth every cent

https://m.ebay.com/itm/SNAP-ON-1-1-...:OkwAAOSwIspaUs3~:sc:USPSPriority!11370!US!-1

https://m.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-Tool...574147?hash=item4d635dcf83:g:nBcAAOSwgspZuuge

I hope this helps

 

[Yarpo]

We can even remove the 40 allen keys and it comes out to $1.01 per tool.

Match that parts list minus the bits and you will not find a lower per tool cost buying a hodgepodge.

There is a bulk set to meet any need and the cost per tool will always be lower.

Lets do an exercise, match the parts list of the 413 piece set with your hodgepodge and show me the cost savings.

We've had this conversation before, but just because the price per tool is $1.01 doesn't make this set (or any of the craftsman sets) the best tool option available. You need to look at the price per USABLE tool. Guys going to be a lube tech, all of those 12 points are redundant, plus the ignition wrenches. That said, its still a pretty good value and one OP should consider.

If it was me personally I would buy and recommend what others have

http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemDisplay.cfm?lookup=KDT80550P

https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LYZ2IJ4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001A3ZBCI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-17-p...SellerId=Sears&prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

~400 dollars, better ratchets and wrenches, more and significantly better pliers, plus screwdrivers.

 

[ez-duzit]

...just because the price per tool is $1.01 doesn't make this...the best tool option available...

This is an excellent point. If lowest cost per tool was the most important factor, everyone would shop at HF.

Buy quality.

 

[Gmonkee]

Gettinga start on a limited budget is something most of us forgot how to do.

I had to do it in 2006 the last time myself.

The easy way in to an entry level mech job is the big kit with less bling. Leaves you wanting for less the first weeks. Change out key bits like ratchets and key use items for the job as one progresses.

I did not do it like that. I still use the first sockets but changed everything else multiple times. .Mostly for fun.

Quality us important but not in stuff you don't use much if at all. Newbs have to learn what they will use and us giving advice should suggest stuff that will hold him through the first year. If he stays on time to upgrade and if not there is not a fortune stuck in tools he doesn't use on his next job.

 

[JazzBlueRT]

We've had this conversation before, but just because the price per tool is $1.01 doesn't make this set (or any of the craftsman sets) the best tool option available. You need to look at the price per USABLE tool. Guys going to be a lube tech, all of those 12 points are redundant, plus the ignition wrenches. That said, its still a pretty good value and one OP should consider.

If it was me personally I would buy and recommend what others have

http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemDisplay.cfm?lookup=KDT80550P

https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LYZ2IJ4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001A3ZBCI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-17-p...SellerId=Sears&prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

~400 dollars, better ratchets and wrenches, more and significantly better pliers, plus screwdrivers.

Why would you buy less usable tools for the same money? What about breaker bars, nutdrivers, sockets > 1" etc...

Those "filler items" such as ignition wrenches and Allen keys are not "filler items" when you need them and do not have them.

Have you owned and used the new Apex made Craftsman pliers? How do you know the Channellocks are "significantly better?"

You can try and twist, contort and justify all you want. The fact remains that when the larger Craftsman sets are on sale, they represent the best value in tools.

I also hope you are not trying to claim that less tool coverage over questionably or marginally better "quality" is a good idea? The more tools you have, the greater the likelihood that you will have the correct tool for the job.

 

[KnurledNut]

Lucky13don,
Have you mentioned your need to friends?

Not begging, but inquiring if they have extras for sale.

You may be surprised what people will GIVE you.

Free or cheap stuff will get you making money, and possibly some swearing.
Then upgrade.

My most used filter strap wrench is one i made. It cost me $0.00.

 

[Lucky13don]

Thanks for all the suggestions. And please, no need to argue. Well, I'm sorting thru tools I have and price shopping. But a funny side note, they've pushed the start date to next week. Very annoying. This is such a strange ordeal, first time in 29yrs I haven't had a job. Terrible feeling. But once again I thank all of you for your advice and time to answer my questions.

 

[Specs]

Thanks for all the suggestions. And please, no need to argue. Well, I'm sorting thru tools I have and price shopping. But a funny side note, they've pushed the start date to next week. Very annoying. This is such a strange ordeal, first time in 29yrs I haven't had a job. Terrible feeling. But once again I thank all of you for your advice and time to answer my questions.

(holy **** run on sentence edit)
Better it happen now than when you’re up in years and by today’s standard of ADD, Emailing everything, and Screening processes that are more like American Gladiators, people who can fluff their resume get the job and well being out of the loop...you don’t get it. I’m back in school and 41 years old; if this happened to me when i was 55, I’d be up a creek

 

[shoe1]

You will get it figured out just don't worry some times it is just fire by trial. Have the basics and you will learn what you need. I run a small engine shop and do 90 percent with a hand full of tools. Matter of fact I have sets but what I use all the time I have individual tools set up. I know the feeling only been with out a job once but it was a bad feeling and all I had then was me to worry about was me.

 

[Mr_B]

Gearwrnech sockets and ratchets are far better design for 8hr+ daily use and way better choice for a start out pro set.
I would skip the craftsman screwdrivers too and get the toptul set .
If budget allowed I would recommend the williams hard handle set as decent drivers save a lot of beginner ballache, if want a few beater screwdrivers rob some scruff from family junk tools or pick up couple 2dollar drivers from hardware store or yard sale etc .
Craftsman striking prybars good buy though and best price for those wilde made bars .

 

[Jables]

Thanks for all the suggestions. And please, no need to argue. Well, I'm sorting thru tools I have and price shopping. But a funny side note, they've pushed the start date to next week. Very annoying. This is such a strange ordeal, first time in 29yrs I haven't had a job. Terrible feeling. But once again I thank all of you for your advice and time to answer my questions.

I've been there before and it's certainly not a fun situation. There's been a lot of good tool suggestions on here and I won't add to it. I've lurked here for quite some time and have purchased a lot of tools based on what the others have posted. That being said...I'd personally take inventory of what you have and get the most necessary items to get you through your first week. That should at least give you the opportunity to get a feel for what all you're going to need. Plus you'll get to see what tools the others are using.

Seeing as how you are in a bit of a time crunch now, it'll limit where you can get those most needed tools. In my mind, that says either getting something locally or through Amazon Prime. Good luck! Don't forget to post pictures of what you get. Seems like everyone here loves pics of tools, myself included!

 

[Yarpo]

Why would you buy less usable tools for the same money? What about breaker bars, nutdrivers, sockets > 1" etc...

Those "filler items" such as ignition wrenches and Allen keys are not "filler items" when you need them and do not have them.

Have you owned and used the new Apex made Craftsman pliers? How do you know the Channellocks are "significantly better?"

...and what about screwdrivers, palm ratchets, or a large pair of channellocks? There's pros and cons and pieces missing to both of these sets, again my recommendation is simply opting for generally a higher quality set of usable pieces.

I'm a full time mechanic, and a part time mechanic (at home) and I have NEVER used an ignition wrench. Are ignition wrenches things lube techs commonly use? If yes, great then you're correct that they're not filler items. If the guy will never use them along with a 12 point 7/32 1/4" socket, then its also a filler item in this case. Its going to take up space and be unused at work for him.

I have not, I'm sure they're great pliers and all the pros are headed out to get them. You got me! Now that you mention it, I'd love a pair

You can try and twist, contort and justify all you want. The fact remains that when the larger Craftsman sets are on sale, they represent the best value in tools.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/hand-tool-sets/301-pc-mechanics-tool-set-63457.html

That set was $0.99 per tool, this set here is $0.66 per tool, so its clearly the best value in tools, correct? With a 20% off coupon, you would be looking at $0.53 per tool. You can try and twist, contort and justify all you want using a set with 187 bits as a counter example but I think you see my point.

I also hope you are not trying to claim that less tool coverage over questionably or marginally better "quality" is a good idea? The more tools you have, the greater the likelihood that you will have the correct tool for the job.

By this logic everyone should buy 413 piece mechanic set or the full snap on catalog to change oil on their GM car, even tho the drain plug is going to be the same size every single time. They might need more tools for the unsuspecting jobs they're not tackling....? Again the guys going to be a lube tech, not a master technician.

 

[Mr_B]

For more pro starter kit, bit of tool professional design features and quality over quantity going be way wiser spend than a craftsman china set .
4 to 500 bucks could get the guy a HF cart, GR sockets 3/8 1/4, toptul drivers, wrenches, basic pliers and bits see him through first 2-3 months then add more as needs/funds arise, plus this stuff easy live with many hours a day and you still be happy with tools few years into it .
Really won't need that much and best waiting until in the job before going beyond very obvious basics .
even when buying cheap stick to good designed tools and buy knowing you likely be happy with tools for early years of career.
amount of guys I see want swap out first purchase within few months as design issues bugs them in daily use is high and cost of this is high too.
aiming too low will cost you more as daily use scenario nothing like a diyer scenario .

 

[Yarpo]

even when buying cheap stick to good designed tools and buy knowing you likely be happy with tools for early years of career.
amount of guys I see want swap out first purchase within few months as design issues bugs them in daily use is high and cost of this is high too.
aiming too low will cost you more as daily use scenario nothing like a diyer scenario .

Agree with this 100%

 

[Tallpilot]

Why would you buy less usable tools for the same money? What about breaker bars, nutdrivers, sockets > 1" etc...

Those "filler items" such as ignition wrenches and Allen keys are not "filler items" when you need them and do not have them.

...

You can try and twist, contort and justify all you want. The fact remains that when the larger Craftsman sets are on sale, they represent the best value in tools.

I also hope you are not trying to claim that less tool coverage over questionably or marginally better "quality" is a good idea? The more tools you have, the greater the likelihood that you will have the correct tool for the job.

The fundamental argument distills down to exactly what is your definition of value. If it is most tools for the least cost per tool those of you hawking the Craftsman sets are absolutely correct.

The other side of this argument is not over marginally better 'quality' it is over the distinct and noticeable discomfort our new friend here is going to feel after a day of pulling on Craftsman raised panel ratchets and wrenches. The are completely functional but miserable to use for more than about 5 minutes.

So we suggested some sets that had full polish and much more comfortable to use tools for a slightly higher cost per tool but within the OP's budget. Then the fireworks started. For my part in stirring stuff up I apologize. But the opinions are strong because we are trying to keep this guy from making a mistake and buying something he's going to want to be rid of at the end of his first day.

 

[ez-duzit]

...distinct and noticeable discomfort our new friend here is going to feel after a day of pulling on Craftsman raised panel ratchets and wrenches. The are completely functional but miserable to use for more than about 5 minutes...
trying to keep this guy from making a mistake and buying something he's going to want to be rid of at the end of his first day.

Come on! Such BS!