Which tools to buy?

[R_Bell]

Okay maybe this had been asked and if it has please direct me to the appropriate area in the site. I am a weekend warrior when it comes to working on cars so with that said I am looking for a full set of tools 1/2 inch 3/8 etc i am not looking to buy snap on just a good set of tools and with that said let's begin.

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[Mr Ratchet]

I'd start looking at Gearwrench. I like most of what they have to offer. SK is very good but, cost a bit more.

 

[Mohawk Dave]

I have all Snap on. If I had to do it over, probably just get Gearwrench sockets. I have a few and feel they are great bang for buck ratio. And super nice finish.

Sunex for impact stuff.

Start reading this forum. This subject is talked about every day.

 

[Alpine4x4]

If needing impact look at the Sunex complete impact sets, major bang for the buck.

 

[bcradio]

Gearwrench is a good start I would say also.

 

[Parrothead]

I’m not a C.O.O. guy, but here are my choices and I’ve tried a lot.

For sockets and ratchets - Tekton. Get the full 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 kits
They’re a great value, all 6pt and don’t skip if you buy the right kits. Customer service is OUTSTANDING!
Pliers...if you can find Craftsman USA, or the Tekton USA for slip joint or grove joint. Needle nose I use Klein’s. Linesman can be almost anything. I have everything from Knipex to Kobalt and they’re all about the same.
Combo wrenches - Tekton for anything not in the Snap On price range
Adjustable wrenches - Channellock - made in Spain, very little slop
Screwdrivers - Williams or Pittsburgh (HF the blue and red version). Williams is the best deal and order off Amazon. I haven’t tried the Tekton yet. Also the imported Husky drivers have been good to me too.
Locking pliers - Bremen from Harbor Freight.
Pry bars - Craftsman

That’s a decent start and should keep your budget intact. Don’t get fooled into the “best” thing and impressing the natives. My dad could work circles around most people and used Great Neck sockets and an Ace Professional ratchet for years including rebuilding engines. It’s not the tools...

 

[B.S.A. (ret.)]

I won't depart from my advice to previous questions such as yours. Hunt down bargains at garage sales, pawn shops, flea markets, etc. MANY QUALITY USA and other tools to be found "on the cheap". If you're in a hurry to get set up, there is a fair amount of love here for the Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Professional line (not my bag, but from what I have heard here they work well). You can always add to or upgrade when you run across a great deal on pre-owned tools.

 

[HanShotFirst]

If you don't mind imports, Tekton is a lot of value for the money. I really like their stuff, specifically combination wrenches, ratchets, and sockets. Their screwdrivers are US made and a good value. But I would spend just a little more and buy Wera...but that's just me. Or maybe a mix of both.

If you want US made, then I think SK has the best value proposition. Sockets are world class. Long pattern combination wrenches are very good. Screwdrivers are good, but I would rather buy Wera for screwdrivers. Pliers are excellent.

I personally think when all things are considered, for someone who is serious about their tools, even perhaps a professional wrench; SK offers the best combination of world class tools, with world class service.

 

[ChaseDE]

From the other thread you started...

$100 DONE DEAL - https://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-Mechanics-Tool-Set-200-Piece-DWMT75000/206510555

$100 BOOM, ANOTHER WINNER - https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-227...c-Mechanic-s-Tool-Set-with-Hard-Case/50200795

For a weekend warrior any known brand is gonna do the job. I have TONS of ASE vintage snap-on stuff but 80%+ of the work I do on my cars (also weekend warrior) is done using a 10 year old craftsman set in a blow molded case similar to those.

 

[jimmyin3D]

A little off topic but...

how do you feel about the gearwrench 84T locking flex head ratchets? PN# 81276 for the three piece.
i've heard conflicting thoughts about these ratchets and was wondering if the locking isi helpful or a drawback.

i was also looking at the Powerbuilt Pro 72T flex head ratchets in 1/4 11in and 3/8 18in.
these run around the same price at $60 for the 1/4 and 3/8 together, very comparably price with the locking GW ratchets.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Okay maybe this had been asked and if it has please direct me to the appropriate area in the site. I am a weekend warrior when it comes to working on cars so with that said I am looking for a full set of tools 1/2 inch 3/8 etc i am not looking to buy snap on just a good set of tools and with that said let's begin.

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Knowing Your price range would help in directing You toward the better tools within that price range...

Are You looking for metric only, or is there a need for sae sizes.

What is considered a "full set" of tools could vary from a basic set to an overflowing bucket of tools. What is the largest size You might need?

Could You give us a more detailed list?

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

TEKTON

Good tools, cheap and World Class warranty. For the DYI'er, it's a perfect combination.

If COO matters, then Wright, PROTO, SK...

 

[bczygan]

Okay maybe this had been asked and if it has please direct me to the appropriate area in the site. I am a weekend warrior when it comes to working on cars so with that said I am looking for a full set of tools 1/2 inch 3/8 etc i am not looking to buy snap on just a good set of tools and with that said let's begin.

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Welcome to GJ!

Eventually you will need EVERYTHING!

Bill

 

[brownbagg]

my favorite tool and only snap on tool i own, 3 foot extension with 3/8 on one end and 1/2 on other. perfect tool for the top transmission bolts with an impact

 

[PhysicsDude]

+1 on the Tekton. Buy 12-14 piece sets, if you get all 8 (1/2, 3/8, deep and shallow, metric and SAE) it comes to around $250, and you get 106 sockets. One hell of a deal.

Then a nice set of high tooth ratchets, set of extensions, torx and hex drive sockets will set you back about another $150 or so.

 

[Empty Pockets]

As some have said, Tekton is a good value for the money.

HF Pittsburgh Pro Ratchets and impact sockets are pretty good

If you are concerned about COO, SK and Wright are high quality made in USA tools

 

[ladrones]

Prescription Ron Bell

 

[toolaholic]

If you can find them and the price isn’t astronomical ( prices ) skyrocketed since Armstrong discontinued ) the 3/8 11-994 and 1/2 12-994 Armstrong 88 tooth flexhesds are seriously good. My go to ratchets. I don’t care for the 84 tooth gearwrench ratchets as they tend to reverse on you.

 

[Tallpilot]

Tekton for chrome sockets and combination wrenches (Gearwrench sockets are OK too)
Tekton for a couple torque wrenches, prybars and screwdrivers (torx too)
Gearwrench stuff made in Taiwan is serviceable; avoid the China made stuff
Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are a good place to start until you find which style you prefer
Channellock for needle nose and duckbill
Knipex for diagonal cutters (this is the first place to splurge)
Capri for your master set of hex, torx, triple square, etc sockets (tons of different types; figure out what you actually need but when you do buy a type get the master kits so you don't end up missing a size someday)

Do you want to work on fluid lines? Flare nut wrenches are a bit of a problem...only Snap On seems to make a set worth buying...look on Ebay.

Are you going to get an electric impact? air compressor? Sunex is the best value proposition for impact stuff but save your receipts

Once you have an economical complete set then figure out what you use the most and consider upgrading those pieces

 

[thatguysb]

the gearwrench 84t is comparable to the carlyle.

have both, grab the carlyle because its non locking, gearwrench cost me alot more.

 

[shawhite]

I would only get chrome in maybe 3/8 and I would go with SK or Williams USA. 1/2 I would only get impacts and go with wright tools. If you need wrenches I would look at Wright for combos or Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches. Screwdrivers I would get snapon instinct. Pliers Klein or channel locks except diagonals I would go with snapon. Hex bits if you need them vim. Ratchets I would spend the money and get snapon dual 80 and also a locking flex dual 80. I know that you said you weren’t looking for snapon but I believe buy once cry once on certain items and i like my knuckles so I quit buying cheap tools when I was a teen

 

[bcradio]

Prescription Ron Bell

Ha ha somebody got that... i saw R Bell and that was the first thing that came to mind

 

[JazzBlueRT]

Okay maybe this had been asked and if it has please direct me to the appropriate area in the site. I am a weekend warrior when it comes to working on cars so with that said I am looking for a full set of tools 1/2 inch 3/8 etc i am not looking to buy snap on just a good set of tools and with that said let's begin.

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Sears has a spend $75 get $50 back in points deal on tools going on now.

If I was starting off, I would get the 172 Piece all metric for $149

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-172-...lerId=Sears&prdNo=32&blockNo=32&blockType=G32

And use my $50 in points to get the 172 Piece all SAE for $100

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-172-...lerId=Sears&prdNo=33&blockNo=33&blockType=G33

And then use the new $50 in points to get some hammers, and pliers.

This will give you 218 sockets and 40 wrenches for a good pliers set and some hammers for $250.

For the money you cannot find a more complete tool set.

YMMV

You may have to do it with two different accounts because sometimes points are limited to a certain amount on a deal.

In a few weeks, the 311 piece set will probably be on sale for $169 like it always does if you can wait.

 

[Tallpilot]

https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200624105_200624105

Better set IMO for the same $250 but I am not sure these sets are the way to go since they are loaded with filler pieces, skip sizes on the sockets and include more 12 point than you need and less 6 point than you want.

For similar money a complete set of better quality (Taiwan vs China) sockets can be had from Tekton or Gearwrench.

 

[jd_1138]

What's your budget and what do you work on? Can't go wrong with Tekton, Gearwrench, Napa Carlyle. SK if you can afford it.

I think having most tool categories and sizes represented is more important than brand. So if your budget is low, even Pittsburgh Pro stuff is ok. You can always relegate the cheapest tools to the trunk or shed as you upgrade. I keep my SK Tools in garage, my Craftsman USA in the shed, and my Stanley/Pittsburgh in the trunk.

 

[four.cycle]

Hunt down bargains at garage sales, pawn shops, flea markets, etc. MANY QUALITY USA and other tools to be found "on the cheap".

^ this.

This is no shortage of high-quality used (and slightly used) hand tools in the second-hand market. Check Ebay as well.

 

[R_Bell]

Knowing Your price range would help in directing You toward the better tools within that price range...

Are You looking for metric only, or is there a need for sae sizes.

What is considered a "full set" of tools could vary from a basic set to an overflowing bucket of tools. What is the largest size You might need?

Could You give us a more detailed list?

To be more specific I have a old truck 55 to be exact and the newer cars are nissan and audi so there for I will need both metric and sae. What I am looking more for is the company standing behind there tools I had a set from Lowe's and the sockets were laser etched and over time I couldn't read the size because the etching had come off. I took it back to Lowe's and they said I had to return the whole set just to replace a few sockets no more Lowe's for me unless I buy individual pieces. My budget 2-3 hundred dollars to start.

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[R_Bell]

Welcome to GJ!

Eventually you will need EVERYTHING!

Bill

You are so right.

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[Yarpo]

I'd buy this

https://www.coastaltoolsupply.com/product/KDT-80550F.html

Then I'd buy a 1/2" ratchet from Tekton/GW/Carlyle/HF along with a 1/2" breaker bar and a half inch shallow/deep set again from Tekton/GW/Carlyle/HF

 

[neuralsnafu]

Craftsman or gearwrench .

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[Tallpilot]

I'd buy this

https://www.coastaltoolsupply.com/product/KDT-80550F.html

Then I'd buy a 1/2" ratchet from Tekton/GW/Carlyle/HF along with a 1/2" breaker bar and a half inch shallow/deep set again from Tekton/GW/Carlyle/HF

This is good advice. Add some wrenches and you will be at about $300.

What's your budget and what do you work on? Can't go wrong with Tekton, Gearwrench, Napa Carlyle. SK if you can afford it.

I think having most tool categories and sizes represented is more important than brand.

That's correct. If you are starting basically from scratch you need to get the big categories and the largest variety of sizes first. Then you can play the game like the retired guys on here like to do and buy one socket at a time from a flea market.

Gearwrench warranty is a mixed bag. Some people report an easy mail in process but long return shipping times. Others report constant run arounds.

Tekton is absolutely no BS...email a picture...the replacement arrives in 2 days. NAPA is also no BS and usually same day replacement but more expensive for the privilege.

To be more specific I have a old truck 55 to be exact and the newer cars are nissan and audi so there for I will need both metric and sae. What I am looking more for is the company standing behind there tools I had a set from Lowe's and the sockets were laser etched and over time I couldn't read the size because the etching had come off. I took it back to Lowe's and they said I had to return the whole set just to replace a few sockets no more Lowe's for me unless I buy individual pieces. My budget 2-3 hundred dollars to start.

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So a decent amount of SAE for the old truck. It would have started with just a few sizes but by now I would guess a few hardware store fasteners have been 'added' to it so it will be a fun adventure.

The Nissan will be pretty easy but they aren't as bone stock simple as a Honda or Toyota. I think they are the VW of Japan...over-engineer as much as possible for as little gain as feasible. But still it's JIS so it will use mostly 8,10,12,14,17,19mm with some 21,22,24 and 27 thrown in plus whatever the axle nut is.

The Audi will be interesting...it will require some of the same sizes as the Nissan plus most of the other ones...you will also need torx (plus, tamper-proof, external) and triple squares for sure and most likely in long and short. After all that you will be able to change the fluids, service the brakes (unless it has an electronic parking brake) and some suspension components, and change burned out bulbs. If you want to do more then we're going to have to start talking about scan tools.

 

[Coach James]

https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200624105_200624105

Better set IMO for the same $250 but I am not sure these sets are the way to go since they are loaded with filler pieces, skip sizes on the sockets and include more 12 point than you need and less 6 point than you want.

For similar money a complete set of better quality (Taiwan vs China) sockets can be had from Tekton or Gearwrench.

That Northern Tool set has a much better spread of wrenches than the HD and Lowes set.

Coach

 

[shawhite]

So you want to replace tools that work because the laser etching is rubbed off?

 

[R_Bell]

So you want to replace tools that work because the laser etching is rubbed off?

Not exactly the set I had was not a complete set and when I need to replace a socket because the etching wore off they thumbed there nose at me.

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[crewchief888]

if i was just starting out or looking to add on to hand tools, i think my choices would be ( on the low end) tekton or gearwrench, or (higher end) SK

for pliers, channelock or knipex, buying what you need/use, instead of "sets"

screwdrivers are such a personal choice, but, i prefer old snapon hard handles, SK hard handle or mac hard handles. again buying just what you need.

no experience with tekton ratchets or extensions, i have a couple gearwrench, some roundhead SK, but mainly truck branded ratchets and extensions.


ive been a pro wrench for over 30 years, (and way over the hill in my professional career) when i run into something "new" ive been leaning towards tekton to fill the need. the few things ive bought seem to be holding up to my abuse so far.

 

[jwsia]

Another vote for gearwrench with chrome socket sets. Look for the the buy one get one deals that seem to pop up.

Knipex for side cutters
Williams hard handles for screw drivers
Channel lock pliers

IF you have the time Pawn shops, flea markets and auctions are great but you have to have time to do it. Not a pro here, just a farmer and weekend guy

 

[Tynee]

So you want to replace tools that work because the laser etching is rubbed off?

If he bought a set because it had a lifetime warranty and was laser etched for ease of reading, why shouldn’t he return it if the etching rubbed off prematurely? It was his money, he can decide whether the tool is functioning the way he bought it to function or not, within the design of the tool.

 

[nbruno]

My thoughts on this subject... Buy the best tools that you can afford. At the moment it would seem that since you don't own any tools you probably are not proficient with a vast collection of tools. Therefore, a 3/8 set of sockets (shallow, deep, torx, hex), a set of screwdrivers, a small collection of pliers (slip joint, needle nose, locking, dykes), a ball peen hammer, a deadblow and a 4lb engineers hammer, and a couple of pry bars should be enough to get you by as you progress and your needs increase.
You may find that those tools do everything you need and can support any project you're willing to tackle. Otherwise, it's a good start and that good start will be with good quality tools.
I'd rather have a small collection of good tools than a garage full of junk.

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[Htscheg]

Any quality tool that comes with a great warranty and excellent customer service

 

[Tonyuk]

Weekend work only?

Go cheap-ish. For sockets look into a set of tekton's for 1/2" You can buy the impact sockets now and use with plain hand tools, saves your buying impact sockets if you ever decide to get some power or air tools that need them. For 3/8 i would look into a chrome set from harbor freight/ebay/amazon etc.. Go with deep sockets to start with.

For ratchets look into the harbor freight pro line you can get over there, they have a great and smooth 72 tooth mechanism in them and are warrantied for life im sure, I would get a long flex head 1/2" & 3/8". A good long 1/2" breaker bar also.

Anything else buy as you need.

I use sockets for a living and alot of them are off-brands from ebay and their absolutely fine. They can be a bit "rough" finish-wise but they grip a nut just as well, my better sockets (facom & mac) are good but i would never pay the money they ask fro them just to work at the weekend.

If you need bits such as torx etc.. look into wera, torx, invert hex and xzn bits are one area where you really do get what you pay for.