If you’ve got a favorite tool – how about a quick review in the comments section?
It doesn’t have to be your all-time favorite, if that’s too hard, but maybe a recent favorite.
For me, the Klein 11057 wire stripper – and the similar long-discontinued Craftsman Pro’s that are built similarly – is one of my favorites.
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The Klein 11057 is their finer-gauge (20-30 AWG solid, 22-32 AWG stranded) wire stripper. It has spring-action “Klein Kurve” handles, a slightly arced cutting blade, and precise holes.
It’s the handle grip that I especially like, on top of the precise wire insulation-stripping action, of course. Something about the cushioning effect of the double-dipped handle grip makes these better than thin-dipped and thicker comfort-grip tool handles.
You can get your own for ~$21 at Amazon.
Now, it’s your turn – if you’re up to it. Tell us about one of your favorite tools – what it is, and why you like it.
Keep things short and sweet – maybe 1 to 5 sentences, or a single short paragraph.
Why? Some positivity could do everyone some good.
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George
The old-model Milwaukee Side-Slide utility knife. Feels right in the hand, blade extends/retracts smoothly, and the blade stays securely. Every few months I misplace it by not putting it back where it belongs and there is a panicked search of my home.
Leo B.
My Martinez M1 hits hard and pulls nails like nothing. Easy on the arm, easy on the eyes, hits like a sledge. That’s a winning combo for me!
David
Here’s a current “I didn’t know how much I’d like it” review – I recently went on a quest to find the best tape measure for my shop use after using a pile of random tapes for years. I wanted build quality, readability, and consistency as I worked on projects.
I’m really liking Lufkin’s Nite Eye tapes. I wasn’t sure how well the black tape with bright markings would work for me – they’re great. I’ve broken off a lot of clips on my other tapes which is frustrating -this one has four rivets. The blades are printed on both sides which is also a surprisingly handy feature. Pricing seems in line with other quality tapes.
My favorite tool? A much harder decision.
Mark M.
Agree on those Nite Eye tapes, they’ve proven to be solid and I love the black/green markings.
Josh
I also use these and love them. Especially in low light areas, which is why I bought them bet they are better than expected. Ended up buying a handful of them for different bags and vehicles.
D3t
Knipex electrician shears. They have finely serrated to grab and hold what they are cutting. Belt holster included.
https://www.knipex.com/products/cable-and-wire-rope-shears/electricians%27-shears/electricians-shears/9505155SB
Karlen
Yep that is mine as well! Use them daily at work, they can cut most anything.
Bruce
Klien 11 in 1 screwdriver. One of these in your back pocket will open 99.9% of every thing you need to open. I have close a dozen of these between my personal ones and my work ones and I’ve worn out dozens and dozens of them over 20 years of work. I’ve tried probably every multi bit screw driver out there and most of them are garbage in comparison.
Steve
I just picked up one of these, I am looking forward to using it.
Karlen
They have an impact rated 11 in 1 now too! My second favorite tool that I have on me all the time at work. Able to easily remove part of the shaft and put it in the impact if I need “more power” *grunt*
Joatman
Not sure this counts, but my Spyderco Para 3. I use it more than any other tool I own.
But my favorite tool out of the box, or off the bench is my Craftsman Robogrip pliers from 20-25 years ago. Love the spring action and course teeth.
MM
While I wouldn’t call them my favorite tool I have to say those Robogrips are surprisingly good and they are absolutely worth an honorable mention. I lost my original pair from the late 90’s a few years back and I immediately went and tracked down a replacement on Ebay. Normally I consider most “auto adjusting” tools to be gimmicks but the Robogrip actually does work. I feel that the laminated construction helps it grip hard too since the layers give it some additional, through perhaps inadvertent, serration.
Jared
Robogrips may be the most controversial tool of all time. I’ve hung around long enough to recognize MM as a very knowledgeable commenter with considerable experience with a variety of tools – a veritable “expert” – yet I couldn’t disagree more with this opinion on Robogrips. 😄
I think they’re worthless rubbish and I wouldn’t keep a set were they gifted to me. Every time they come up for discussion though, they seem to be highly polarizing. They must work for someone, for something…
MM
That’s the thing with tools, they’re very personal. When I first read this article I was surprised that Stuart liked those Klein wire strippers. I’ve done (and still do) a lot of fine wiring over the years and I can’t stand that style. But what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for someone else.
Joatman
Maybe it has to do with the fact that I havent broken them or lost them in well over 2 decades. Just can’t shake ‘em! I’ve tried…..they’ve been through 3 moves…..I don’t ever look for them….they just show up.
They’ve been extremely handy and reliable….and still going strong. Like with any tool ….understand their limitations, and you won’t be disappointed.
Jared
Good point. Even the example makes sense to me – those aren’t my favorite style of stripper either. I prefer my Knipex automatic stripper (12 21 180), speaking of favorite tools.
MM
@Jared
I like that style of stripper as well. I have two, an older USA-made Craftsman that goes from 10 to 20 awg and an Ideal Stripmaster that goes from 20 to 30. Paladin Tools Stripax Pro is nice too though it doesn’t make as satisfying a sound as the others.
Raycr
They were good until Knipex plier wrench came out.
It is like road feel some cars’ old steering wheels give you – that feedback as you squeeze and turn at the same time. Open end wrenches don’t give you much feedback on bolts flexing.
Finally you only need to carry one Knipex for both metric and Imperial sizes and todays high strength steel is better than laminated from the 1980’s.
Raycr
I mean the Robos from the 1980’s
Raycr
Pistol grip is more comfortable than a open wrench grip.
Jason
I LOVE my RoboGrips!! Got the big ones, and the tiny ones. They may be OLD. But they are Awesome tools to have
Art
My original Vampliers VT-001, I purchased them for $35 and have been my most used singular tool as it is unique and helpful. I purchased them in 2013 and they’re still going strong. They’re currently less in price on Amazon. I did get the larger more recent Knipex version, but still use the OGs more often.
Shane
Had mine for 6 years and they are starting dull out a bit on the teeth but boy have I put them through they’re paces! I actually had the Engineer branded version but they’re the same. I’ve extracted some impossibly stripped fasteners and they only need a small bite.
Steve
Currently my favorite tool is my Milwaukee M12 Fuel Impact Driver. It was a hand me down that I was gifted over 2 years ago. I used it to build my garage shelves and work on my other wood working projects around the house plus other random stuff. I also kind of use it as a hammer at times and beat on it a little. Has served me well. I have a M18 I picked up and I enjoy that as well.
Matthew
In a similar vein, the M12 Fuel Surge Impact Driver. It’s just the hydraulic version of that tool, but it’s way quieter than most impacts. The tradeoff is slightly reduced torque, but it’s handled everything I’ve thrown at it including driving lags. I have a full size 18V impact for when I need it, but I’m not sure I’ve used it since picking the the M12 Surge.
TomD
This is it right here, it’s my go-to for almost everything, and it is quiet enough to use around the house without annoying others. The M12 Surge on 2 does almost everything I need day-to-day, so much that I rarely use anything else.
Before that it was the Festool CXS that was my “go to” but I’ve not used it in years now.
OldDominionDIYer
Hitachi NR1890DR 21 deg framing nailer. I’ve owned this beauty since 2018 and run thousands of nails through it and it just keeps going. I would never have bought it if Milwaukee had been offering an M18 version like they do now. I’m fully invested in the M18 and M12 battery systems, so this Hitachi (Metabo HPT now) is a one off that has been a very pleasant surprise. It drives 3-1/2-inch nails with ease and I have used it on many many projects. I’m not a professional builder so this nailer saves me a lot of time and frustration and gives me confidence to tackle all sorts of projects. It’s heavy, they don’t (to my knowledge) offer an extended magazine, it doesn’t come with a no mar tip (though it’s available now) but it just delivers time and time again. While perhaps not my favorite tool it is one of my favorites. I would, and have, recommended it many times and I have watched doubters change their mind after using it, after they run out of excuses and realize just how handy and capable it is. Going to be building a greenhouse for my wife during the last week of May and I have no doubt my Hitachi will play a leading role once again. Just ordered a big box of galvanized nails for that project.
Justin
I love the Irwin Vise Grip wire strippers. They are self-adjusting and generally do a great job of removing sheathing from a variety of wires. They are especially useful for stripping the outer cover from Romex wire. I’ve even used them to remove the sheathing from CAT cables. The pair I’ve had has been in my toolbox for years and outside of having to turn the little adjusting knob more often than I used to, they are still going strong. It is generally the tool I purchase for other guys when I need to buy a gift and don’t know what to get.
Munklepunk
I have been pleasantly surprised by Irwin. They seem to get a lot of flack but they have comfortable grips and work good. I’ve bought and used a bunch of their tools, including their strippers, and they just work.
Smf
MegaPro ratcheting screwdriver. The handle is comfortable. The ratcheting action is smooth without a lot of back drag. I like the version that uses 1″ bits, they’re easier to replace when worn and to customize the load out.
Matthew
Might be mine as well. Big fan of the smooth ratcheting, solid build, and ability to store 6 1″ bits. I wasn’t surprised to see it performed extremely well in Project Farms testing. LinusTechTips made a screwdriver with PC building / electronics in mind which is manufactured by MegaPro. It has greatly reduced back drag and increased magnetism, but uses shorter bits and can’t handle quite as much torque. Different tool for a different application.
Matthew
Was just using it and remembered it actually stores 12 bits, not 6. 6 more reasons to like it!
Plain+grainy
Haven’t used it yet. But I purchased a Packout tool station. I know plastic schedule pipe tool holders are cheaper! But the Packout can be wall mounted, then removed & placed on top of a Packout stack. The chucks will be pointed down, ready for quick access of your drill, impact. Makes a nice rolling work center. A configuration of a rolling toolbox, Packout cabinet, topped by the tool station, then two compact organizers paired side of tool station( lower one batteries, top one screws- fasteners-bits!
John804
I really enjoy my 3d printer. I’ve found countless uses for it printing router templates, guides, clamping squares, hand tools, organizers, etc. It’s an enabler for many other hobbies, too. I have zero CAD skills, but there are so many free designs that it doesn’t matter. I have a big plan to use the Gridfinity system to organize a lot of hobby items in the near future. That said, my older Ender3 Pro really needs some maintenance, and cheaper hobby-level machines do require periodic part replacement and have a pretty steep learning curve. I hope to build a big 350mm Voron 2.4 or Voron Trident printer next year so I can print larger items, faster, and in stronger filaments.
Michael Fox
I couldn’t agree more. I waited on the sideline for quite awhile to get into it, as a lot of people I know that have been in it for a while spend a lot of time upgrading and tinkering with the printer itself. I also just wasn’t sure if there was actually much useful stuff that I’d make. I don’t have time / desire to be working on the printer all the time. I finally bought a Ender 3 s1 in December. We used it way more than I expected, so just a few months later I upgraded to a Bambu Labs P1P. It has been awesome; super fast and it just works.
I also don’t have CAD skills yet and have been amazed by how much stuff you can find free designs for. I’m constantly amazed by the problems I can solve in the workshop and around the house with it. It’s very rarely sitting idle.
Aaron SD
Great to hear! What makes the Bambu Labs better? I haven’t heard of them and also been waiting on the side too… Maybe we’ll get one at the end of the year
James+C
I asked chat gpt to tell me what’s so great about the knipex pliers wrench in five sentences:
The Knipex Pliers Wrench is a versatile and innovative tool that combines the functionality of pliers and a wrench in one. It provides a secure grip on a wide range of objects without damaging their surface. Its smooth, parallel jaws distribute force evenly and prevent marring or scratching. The pliers wrench offers precision and control, making it popular among professionals and DIY enthusiasts in various fields. Overall, the Knipex Pliers Wrench is a reliable, durable, and valuable addition to any toolkit.
Jared
All time favorite is the Knipex pliers wrench – but that’s been thoroughly reviewed here so I’ll go with a recent favorite instead: the Civivi Button Lock Elementum #1.
Since I bought it several months ago, I hardly every carry a different knife – and I used to rotate almost daily. It’s light and slim enough that I barely notice it in my pocket. It has a reversible deep-carry pocket clip (which is a necessity for me).
The 3.5″ blade length is a little longer than I normally pick but I’ve come to really like it and the handle has a very neutral handle shape with plenty of real estate. The handle is quite good for tougher tasks, though a bit thin if you’re really putting it to hard use – still, it’s a compromise I’m glad Civivi made for pocketability.
The 14C28n blade steel is not a “super steel” or made with “particle metallurgy”, but it is my favorite budget option. It holds an edge well, can be sharpened to a very high degree of refinement and it’s stainless and tough. Good marks all around.
Finally, the button lock. This knife doesn’t have thumb studs, a flipper, blade hole or any other type of normal deployment system – which is somewhat polarizing. You just push the button and give it a gentle wrist flick or reverse flick with your middle finger. Push the botton again and gravity closes the blade.
I’ve found it very intuitive and fast to deploy and put away – making it safer because I actually close the blade between cuts rather than leave it open somewhere to pick up again. However, some people will prefer the button lock #2 which came out more recently and does have a flipper.
JR Ramos
No longer available but the Porter Cable 330 Speed Blok palm sander. Nothing else made like it before or since and it was the pinnacle of design for sanders. When BD/DeWalt chose to mothball that product it was an inexplicable slap in the face to tradesmen. Wish they’d reintroduce it.
Mitutoyo digital calipers. Accurate and dependably repeatable for when that last or extra digit actually matters vs. what the cheap import calipers can provide. They are finely finished and a pleasure to use. Only niggle is the raised bar that makes me use a fingernail to zero or switch between sae/metric.
And the trusty Starrett 18A automatic center punch. One of the tools I wish I had let myself purchase many years before I finally did.
fred
My Speedbloc had to be repaired twice. The “counterbalance mechanism” seemed to fail rendering the tool useless. I still have the tool plus some extra backing pads for it (#13597, #47696 and # 47699). The 2nd repair may have been the charm – but I seldom use the 330 any more having moved on to Bosch then Festool sanders. I do sometimes pull out my PC #505 (1/2 sheet sander and one of my PC Belt sanders (#360, #371 or #503). I also have a PC 121 (portable oscillating spindle sander) and their #7336 ROS. The 7336 (first of a kind ROS) is still my choice for outdoor (no dust collection and angle grinder form factor) heavy duty sanding tasks. The PC #505 has mostly been supplanted by a Makita XOB03Z cordless bought last year.
Ted
Very similar experience. Thanks Fred!
JR Ramos
Were yours the first gen with the glossy housing? I used the snot out of one for many years and had a backup that got a lot of use but less (enough to go through 3 replacement pads, though). They were both the matte housing. Never a problem other than replacing brushes once. Was the balance a loctite issue or poor threads? I had two of the later cheaper models (340 I think) and had issues with cracked plastic on those. The 330s were stolen unfortunately. I’ve never felt a sander that had such great balance and zero vibration as the 330, and the pads they used were just excellent. I picked up the M18 square sander when it came out…nice tool but it’s a little wonky to use and I’ve ended up pulling out the corded sanders a lot. Sure is convenient to be cordless but to me both the ergonomics and the balance are just very poor on the Milwaukee and others, with that battery sagging off the back like it does.
fred
Mine is the old black one – glossy Bakelite sort of plastic – housing
JR Ramos
Most of the failures/returns we saw in our stores (not many of them really) were just from drywall and paint dust.
Scott F
Feels like a cop out but my Knipex 5″ pliers wrench takes the cake for favorite. It is the first thing I grab when I have to go mess with something, and is a great general purpose tool. Take it with screwdrivers to mess with small engines, take it alongside my impact gun for holding nuts on cars, and keep it beside the workbench for random holding tasks.
And +1 for the Klein strippers Stuart picked – I don’t have the small gauge set but love my “normal” sized ones/prefer them over any other strippers I’ve encountered.
MFC
My phone I suppose. It can do everything my 953 other tools can’t. Have questions? Need to check suppliers? Need mfg. specs? Need to remember the location for mechanical after drywall? A phone can do it all. It’s like having a back-up brain.
Mike McFalls
Nice choice!
It can do some things other tools can as well- Spirit level, measure, decibel meter….
Jeremiah P.
I am extremely fond of my Felo #2 wood handled screwdriver. It never fails to make me smile when I use it. It doesn’t strip out screws and the tip has lasted for years now in a daily use situation. I will be very sad when I have to retire it. It also has a really nice patina now after after a couple of years. very strong recommendation. I’m just sad I lost my #1 Phillips somewhere.
AC
Man, I have these too and really want to like them, but the handles seem slippery. I 100% agree that they’re super cool and Felo makes great steel and well fit tips, but the Ergonic grips just feel better in my hands.
I’ve got a ton of screwdrivers and I would rank Felo/PB Swiss top of the heap.
Mark M.
Man, just one is hard! My 7″ (180mm) Knipex Cobras get used more than just about any other hand tool I own. They are light, adjust from pulling splinters to 1″ + fittings, and grip like crazy. They are one of those tools where if I lost it tonight, I’d buy another pair tomorrow zero hesitation. Definitely one of those tools that seems a bit expensive but when you get it, you get it.
Runner up would be my M12 Surge impact driver. If you’ve never run a hydraulic impact, it’s a game-changer.
Joellikestools
You literally picked the tools I was going to write about. They are great.
mla
Rolair JC10PLUS quiet air compressor. *So* nice to have it be so quiet. I use it a ton more than my old loud one.
James Vis
My M12 fuel impact driver. Got it as gift for Christmas last year and use it all the time instead of my powerful (and heavier) Makita 18v impact driver. The M12 fits more comfortably in my hand and is not as tiring on the arm when using it repetitively. I recently built an outdoor kids playground (from a kit) using it throughout 2 long days and was so grateful for the lightweight but sufficiently powerful driver.
Jason Watkins
Milwaukee Compact Fastback Utility Knife.
This thing is my every day carry at work (at a Subaru factory) it fits comfortably in my pocket and is extremely comfortable in the hand. The blade lock is secure but easy to use. I have dropped the thing more times then i can count with zero signs of wear.
Blake
My Wera Tool Check Plus.
It fits perfectly in the cargo pocket of my work pants and paired with my Leatherman, has everything I need ~80% of the time to work on the myriad of arcade machines I service at work.
Life-changing tool for me, especially after I removed the non-security torx bits and replaced them with Imperial hex bits.
Morgan
Very simple, quick and easy…
Pistol grip needle nose pliers!!!!!! Your arms, wrists, and hands will thank you for the rest of your life.
William Adams
My Silca Ti-Ratchet and Torque Kit — while it’s ostensibly a bicycle tool, there are no compromises made regarding its functionality as a tool.
Koko The Talking Ape
I think the Knipex pliers-wrench is covered adequately, so I’ll talk about my new marking knife, the “Narex Super Thin Dual Bevel Striking Marking Knife (813900).” $19 at Taylor Tools.
I’ve been looking for something like this for a long time. What’s special about it is it’s sharpened along the long edge like a snap knife, not on the tip. I guess you’d call the profile a “sheepsfoot,”
This is good because 1) if I drop the knife, it won’t stab through my shoe into my foot, and 2) you can get a deeper mark, and more control, by palming the handle and pressing down on the blade with a forefinger. The usual skew-ground single-bevel marking knives are great for things like paring slivers of wood off tenons, but they don’t make as deep marks.
For decades I’ve been using cheap snap knifes for marking, for those very reasons, but now I have something that’s higher quality and nicer to hold, with a nice round beechwood handle. I may dock the handle a little so it fits more deeply in my palm.
The steel is
When I make a holster for it (out of milk jug plastic), it’ll never leave my belt!
Koko The Talking Ape
Oops, I meant to say: the steel is ” highly allowed [sic] Cr-Mn steel and heat treated to HRc 58,” i.e., nothing special, but it doesn’t have to be. It sharpens easily, and I expect it to last a long, long time.
Aaron SD
I think I need to go with my $4 Buck HD Orange dual bit screwdriver. I forget how long ago I picked it up and felt silly doing it, but I use it all the time. I really like the Wera Kompact Kraftform but around the house I use big Orange for all basic usage. Knipex pliers wrench is also way up there too.
Hepdog
Petzl Reaktic+ headlamp.
– USB chargeable
– auto adjusts to ambient light conditions
– will last an 8hr day if you don’t abuse the boost function
– have had this one 10 years
Sadly, this model is no longer made. Not sure what current version is
Honorable mentions
-ARES 70790 – Right Angle Driver:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F1CQTS6
-Thomas & Betts crimpers
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018LD2PU
– Pandui ziptie gun. Mine is 25 years old and still functions perfectly.
Current version:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N3A0WM2
fred
I have one of those Panduit zip tie guns. Bought it in 2019 for new house wiring project – and since then it hasn’t got a tremendous amount of use – but probably was worth the $117 I paid for it. At the current price of $187 – it might still be worth its salt – but a 60% cost increase in 4 years seems steep.
Hepdog
Fred, agreed; it’s a steep price for limited use.
I used to install switching systems in retail displays and had to tension and flush-cut thousands of zipties. Nothing else does it with the ease and consistency of this tool. This thing has probably 100,000 zipties under its belt and still works flawlessly
Jack
The Stanley 4 in 1 pocket/pen screwdriver is probably what I use the most. I carry it everyday and bring it camping and fly fishing or use it around the house. It fits in my pocket comfortably and provides enough torque for most jobs. They’re only about $2.50 so I completely misuse it and use it as a pry bar, scraper, utility knife or anything else I don’t want to use my knife for. Simple but so effective.
Tom
Enderes 6 in 1 screwdriver. The bits are great and it feels great in the hand. For less than $10, it really can’t be beat.
JR Ramos
I really like the handles on the newer Tekton 6-in-1 drivers but not long ago someone foisted an old Enderes on me, just the classic red ribbed handle. I’d forgotten they made them and how good the bits were. They were a great company.
Mike McFalls
Mafell KSS 18M 40 BL.
MFC
Wow, that thing is awesome. DeWalt? Where you at? Come check this out:
Blocky
Pls 180g crossline , the discontinued original version from before they sold to fluke corp. I use it every day. The most stable line of any self leveling laser I’ve tried — there is a magnet in the base to help center the pendulum, something not present in the current version – or in anyone else’s.
Scott Davis
My go to tool would have to be my Gerber 600 black basic. Its my EDC and the most used tool. I use it on almost every service call for one reason or another. When I go somewhere that I can not carry it, I feel naked. If I misplace it and its not in its sheath, I can’t accomplish anything else until its found.
Charlie_D
I still love my “Bluegrass” (made in Louisville, Kentucky) hammers that I bought 54 year ago. Ever faithful. Nothing better.
A W
It’s tough to pick just one.
I’m going to say my compact table saw. It’s not particularly special, just an older DW745 with a 10″ blade, but it was my first major power tool purchase and opened up a whole new range of capabilities for me.
The geared fence mechanism that stays parallel to the blade is a huge feature, along with the riving knife (which stays on) and other safety guards (which are usually removed).
I’ve had it for 6 years and it still makes me both smile and ratchet up my concentration every time I get to use it.
Mosh
Currently my Hilti 12v impact driver.
Love the ergonomics, no it’s not going to drive lags but I got plenty more impacts bigger and beefier.. decent power..
Did use it to tighten ½ bolts in Copper Details, CT cabinets CTs..
It is missing Quick change chuck like my m12 and Dewalt 20v
Chip
My favorite tool is a 20 yr old blue point re-badged Knipex plierswrench, bought used then on ebay.
I have used it for at least 75 different tasks.
4 yr old makita tracksaw brings a grin, even after 4500 cuts since new.
Using an omt is a LOUD and dreadful experience that I despise,but it is extremely useful.
Hydraulic drivers are faster than a drill,and much quieter then an impact.
These 4 are on my personal Mt Rushmore list.
Tim+E.
This doesn’t strictly fit the definition, but by FAR the best upgrade I’ve made in general for (somewhat) tools, and life recently, is getting nice bags / pouches to organize things I carry regularly. Camera batteries, memory cards, and USB drives all go in a Moment tech organizer. The quick-fix tech kit I take to robotics competitions go in a Peak Design tech pouch. EDC items/tools, which I usually don’t carry in my pockets, more “have with me”, go in a Peak Design field pouch. I bought a few last cords to color coordinate my travel power/battery/cable sets, so the lilac set I take to work goes in some no-name lilac pouch from Amazon. The mint color set I take if I’m taking a camera or a game system or similar goes in a no-name grey and mint “accessories” bag from Amazon. I evaluated and consolidated the writing utensils I carry and coupled them with some lens wipes, flashlight, tape, small notebook, and scissors in some pencil pouches based on what, if any, kind of writing or note-taking I plan to do. Split up my camera gear a bit to have a small body and lens combo in a lighter and more portable bag to take for certain outings just to have something, versus each time taking some subset from my main bag or simply taking the entire bag instead. Upgraded my laptop bag to a rolling bag, it’s actually an under-seat piece of luggage, but works great for carrying daily stuff. And the rolling part and using it as a laptop bag was admittedly not my aim when I bought the piece, but has been super nice to have and used a lot more than I expected. Rummaged and found a Nomatic backpack/duffel I knew I had somewhere and it’s now the start of a bug out bag that I’m slowing building out. Replenished some disposable toiletries and filled an older wash bag I have (this is one I want to upgrade to something nicer, likely another peak design bag, I’m really liking my peak design stuff, but that’s an expensive endeavor), which now I can leave at work or take for shorter outings rather than having to pack up all my daily-use toiletries and toothbrush and such for those.
It’s kind of like packing cubes but for more general/everyday stuff. At least for me, it’s been hugely convenient to have little kits of power cables or EDC tools or writing utensils that I know where they are, they’re stocked and ready to go, and I grab the pouch or couple pouches I need for the time, and know I’m not forgetting something. We’re in a kind of weird period where we’re in the office sometimes, at home other times, so barring having duplicates of everything everywhere (which I subscribe somewhat to that mentality for essentials), it’s stressful to remember grab the phone battery pack you charged and the cable for it, the micro ratchet set and flashlight one day, and then the next day you need to remember the colored pens and highlighter because you’ll be in a meeting and taking notes and needing to sketch and label some diagrams, and won’t need the charger, but do have a meeting with an exec after lunch so might want to take a toothbrush or lint roller. Then you get somewhere and don’t have something you need that you should have known/remembered, or was “sitting right there!”… That’s stres I just don’t need even if it is small overall, and has lessened recently, now it’s “I need chargers most of the time, then meetings today so pencil pouch, maybe the toiletries, done, and that’ll cover some random other stuff that may come up”.
It’s also easier I think to keep stuff together and not lose things, I’m pretty good about keeping track of my stuff but still lose small flashlights, pens, you name it, and that isn’t fun. Having the pouches where there’s a place to put stuff back right after using it, and I generally know what’s in there and where so can see if I forgot or need to add something easily, has so far really helped in that regard.
Stuart
I love the Peak Design Field Pouch too! For pouches, sacks, and other daily or travel organization, Tom Bihn also has some nice options.
Tim+E.
Thanks for the recommendation, I’ll have to check them out!
Saulac
Power tool: M12 Fuel Surge Impact Driver. The combine of size/speed/torque make me use it for everything: driver/drill/impact/roloc/and with the right adapter will work in a pinch: disc cutter/die grinder. Wish list: I know it would be difficult, but I want a “drywall gun” type handle where it is easier to apply pressure. I know there is a M12 installation tool with that handle, but but the tradeoff in torque and speed is too big.
Hand tool: Knipex Cobra pliers. The opening vs the size. The grip. The adjustment. Wish list: Knipex or someone please make a multi-tool base on this pliers (how come all pliers in multi-tools have to be sucked?). Do not need to have 20 functions. Only a blade on one handle and a bit holder on the other handle. That’s it.
andrew holmes
My M18 surge impact, I do a lot of assembly and short self tappers and I can’t go back to normal impacts now. The quieter impact mechanism, the less vibration, and the crazy amount of control you get with the trigger are lifesavers. I know the tool isn’t for everyone because it doesn’t hit as hard as a normal impact but I love it.
fred
For woodworking I still like my old M12 non-Fuel 2401 driver. Easy to control and drive most (other than fussy brass) screws;
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-12V-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-1-4-in-Hex-Screwdriver-Tool-Only-2401-20/202196516?source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&srsltid=AR57-fB54dH8FI4SBDAs_fMD46xEwE-7pEUXIjnhzTugS5thZBrYmD70RKw
Mine was $60 in 2008 – so today’s $79 price doesn’t seem bad.
Lyle
I’ve thought about this all day long. I saw this post when there was only 1 comment but I wanted to read a little bit about what other favorite tool was before making my decision. I guess my favorite tool is my 9 year old Dewalt DCF610 12V MAX cordless screwdriver. It’s not the fastest, most powerful, or anything special, but it’s well balanced and powerful enough for what I mostly use it for (driving screws). I liked it so much, I bought one for work where I use it to install equipment in racks. I set the clutch to 9 and I’m good to go. I love Dewalt’s hex chuck which I can easily operate one handed. When I bought mine it came with a belt clip. The original batteries for it still hold a charge and work well. Dewalt neglected their 12V line for a long time but when they finally decided to refresh it, I bought the new family, drill, screwdriver, and impact driver. I like the newer batteries because they have leds to indicate how much charge the battery has. However, I still prefer the design and feel of my 9 year old DCF610. The new version is shorter and fatter, but I prefer the slimmer body of the DCF610.
Tom
Would second this: but I have migrated to using the newer model on a daily basis, the 610 is relegated to my second workshop. The 601 is quieter, and the clutch is just as predictable.
That said: the M12 Surge is in my Veto for site work, and I use it for putting new self tapping screws in that I don’t want to strip. The controlled power in that thing in Speed 2 is amazing, and it’s so quiet.
Woody
Choosing just one Tool difficult last 10 years the milwaukee inksaw markers changed it for me able do variety of material nothing like on market and don’t dry up leaving cap off get cha some
Blocky
Yeah, sharpies are out. I keep a fatty chisel-tip inkzall in every bag. The caps you really have to snap shut on those. Ruined a couple pockets that way.
Also worthy of mention the Pilot super color refillable markers:
https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Permanent-Markers-Chisel-43100/dp/B0006HUISQ
They also make a low voc version, but the originals will write on anything even in freezing temps. Nothing marks a pallet or crate as nicely ime.
Woody
Reading all posts there all notable and worth mentioning suprising 90 percent tools mentioned have acquired over the years not so brand loyal whats in hand thats what using right tool right job little giant ladder system sweet too so that’s mynpick
HushHouse254
My 1996 Stanley #2 Phillips Screw Driver. Pre FatMax, though looks similar. Comfortable tri-lobe handle. Hex bolster for a wrench and a round shaft that will not mar door knobs. My brother in law gave me a 12 piece screwdriver set for my birthday after I bought my first house. He was an ME at Stanley at the time. I delegated the set to the shed tool box a couple of years ago. I replaced them with a 8 piece Gearwrench set of similar construction.
Jerry
Thought id.go with something no one else mentioned yet and go with my Wera Chisel driver screwdrivers. Probably my favorite tools not already mentioned
Oh and for honorable mention the original Leatherman Super Tool. Has more usefulness and strength in a smaller package than any other multi tool I own. I like the pliers of the Super Tool 300 better, but the tool itself has wasted space and the sheath is bulky. My Super Tool takes up less space on my belt and is 90% as good. For my EDC size really matters.
JAYoung
My Tinker Swiss Army knife is always with me and is used more frequently than any other tool I own.
Scott ALKB
I have 8 Victorinox Swiss Army Knives in various places around the house, all with pliers, a couple of Tinkers included. My EDC is a Cybertool 41, which I use nearly every day.
Jack D
This is a tough one, but I have to say my favorite is likely my most used, the Shop Fox W1837 hybrid table saw with the W1716 fence. It can handle most everything I throw at it, wonderfully accurate, easy to tune up, and combined with the PSI TSGUARD over arm dust collection and a zero clearance throat plate with Micro Jig’s MJ Splitter riving pins, about as clean as a table saw can be! It’s only got 2hp, so I have pushed it too far on occasion, but who hasn’t asked more of their tools from time to time?
I’ve even built a little tabletop to protect the cast iron when not in use, making a handy little assembly table, as well. As the centerpiece of my shop, and the hardest worked part of it, this one tool always makes me smile. I know there are better saws out there, but for my money, this old girl is with me for the long haul. A real Shop Fox, if you will…
Blocky
<3
Chris
Knipex “Concreters’ Nippers” (99 01 220).
I don’t even remember why I initially bought them but they’re always close at hand. They have a high leverage design that makes cutting thick wire/nails/anything that fits in the jaws extremely easy. However, where I honestly use them most is pulling stubborn nails, wire staples, etc. The rounded back side of the jaw lets you grab the offending nail and roll it out of wood.
Greg
Picquic Sixpac Plus (and all their other screwdrivers). Who knew a basic multi bit screwdriver could be so good? The bits are hard and don’t get chewed up, the price is great, I just like using the thing. No gimmicks, nothing to go wrong, just a dependable well-made screwdriver.
Mark M.
Good call. Picquic doesn’t get enough love.
fred
I have a few of their Teeny Turners scattered around:
https://www.amazon.com/Picquic-PIQ06102-1-Teeny-Turner-Screwdriver/dp/B001QVPHBO
Martin
Yes to picquic!
I own about 15 of these between work and home.
Great screwdriver.
It has all the bits I typically need.
I am always promoting these.
M
Klein Kurve are one of my favorites for sure. I really really really enjoy using my romex stripper model when I’m doing home electrical. I didn’t think I’d like it or use it over my OG Kurve….but honestly I reach for it every time and it saves me a significant amount of time
MT
1st favorite: Tinker Swiss Army Knife. Always on me, no unnecessary features, used daily.
2nd favorite: Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill/Driver (1st gen). Have finished a basement with it, built a shed, lots of other stuff. Have yet to really wish I had an 18V.
Robert
My Wera kraftform screwdrivers with the laser etched tips. The handles are shaped such that my hands naturally fall into the most comfortable position for holding them. The tips grip wonderfully secure, I never have cam out. So much so that I rarely reach for my impact driver. Lastly, irrational, but I bought them in Europe, with near the last of my stash of local currency of a country I will probably never return, so they seem (again illogically) a great bargain.
Jim Felt
My favorite screwdrivers by far. That tip tech just seems always more secure.
MM
If we’re talking power tools that’s easy: my drill press. It’s a 1950’s vintage Carlton radial arm drill that previously belonged to the US Navy. It was put into long-term storage as part of a cold war program to restart American manufacturing in the event of a nuclear exchange so it sat unused but maintained for decades. The government sold it as surplus in the early 2000’s.
The ergonomics are top notch, it has an extremely long quill travel, power feed with automatic depth stop, no belts, and even though it is powerful enough to run a 3″ twist drill in steel the clutch has a delicate enough feel & the counterbalance on the quill is so effective that it will power tap as fine as #8.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdRtx9TAGOQ
The only trouble is moving it, it’s a 7500# beast.
Hand tools? That’s hard. Pliers Wrenches and Cobras are always worth mentioning but those have already been well covered. A recent favorite has been Snap-On’s 9″ Talon Grip long-nose slip-joint pliers. I first heard about these from another Toolguyd post a few months back. I picked up a pair and they are fantastic. I generally hate slip-joints but these are very well thought out and very well made. Part no. LN47ACF for red, I think they have other colors too.
fred
I also bought a beast of a radial arm drill press years ago. Mine – a Walker Turner – was perhaps a bit less beastly than yours – but still required riggers to get it into my shop – once I finished its restoration.
I am loathe to say that it or any of the stationary power tools (RAS, Cabinet saw, Drill Press, Jointer, Planer, Bandsaw, Mortising machine. Compressor, Sanding Station, Wide belt sander, and Scroll saw) in my shop are favorites – but my old Unisaw is certainly what I’d call the center of my shop. I would say that a high-quality cabinet saw is likely to become your favorite tool if you are into woodworking – and that today there are likely better choices than my 1970’s vintage Unisaw.
Speaking of woodworking and joinery – I’d say that my Dowelmax kit soon became a favorite after I bought it in 2007 – but 6 years later when I bought my Domino XL machine – the Dowelmax was mostly set aside. The Domino machine – with the help of add-ons from Seneca Woodworking – has become my go-to joinery method for most projects – now seldom using dowels or cutting mortises and tenons. The only recent excepts are sets of take-apart furniture that I’ve built using a Lamello Zeta P2 machine. Both the Domino and Lamello machines are a pleasure to use once you understand a few idiosyncrasies.
MM
Speaking of woodworking, another tool worthy of mention is the old-school hand stitched rasp such as those from Liogier (France). These are an epiphany tool. My prior experience with rasps had been:
a) they were difficult to push
and
b) they left a terrible finish
…so very negative all around. When I started learning about traditional stock making for antique firearms I kept hearing the same thing over and over: the Nicholson #49 and #50 patternmaker’s rasps are among the tools of choice for this job. However, that applied to the old USA-made versions. The current production, outsourced to Brazil, was known to be substandard. After looking around for alternatives I found that Liogier in France made reproductions entirely by hand, and apparently these were even nicer than the old USA made Nicholsons. I ordered a pair, along with a few other shapes I thought might be useful.
Total. Eye. Opener. These are absolutely amazing and are a pleasure to use. They cut fast, have fantastic feel in the hand, and leave a remarkably smooth surface even in the rougher grades. They cut so much better than anything you’d find at a hardware store that I find it difficult to put it into words.
They will make custom rasps to order with your choice of shape and roughness, safe edges, etc, too. After discovering just how good they were I placed another order for a few more, including a custom one that was the same shape as the Nicholson 49 & 50 but significantly coarser. I also ordered a square rasp with one face left safe–no problem for either of those special orders. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
https://www.hand-stitched-rasp-riffler.com/en/
JR Ramos
Quality rasps are awesome aren’t they. I don’t think I bought a nice one until about 20 years ago when I picked up both of those Nicholsons and wow what a difference. These days the Pferd seem pretty good (they are a mix of China and Italy sourcing depending on the model, at least as of a year ago). I can’t recall the brand now but Woodcraft sells some Italian made miniature rasps that are outstanding – if I recall when browsing that manufacturer’s site they do make some standard large models as well, and rifflers. The current crops from Simonds aren’t half bad but they aren’t what they used to be either.
I don’t rasp a whole lot anymore but I may have to get one of those French models…have always heard high praise about them.
MM
They really are! Trying these out changed my opinion of the rasp from a tool I tried to avoid using if I could at all avoid it to something I frequently reach for. I’m planning on ordering a full set of 175mm rifflers and a half set of 225’s that are a little coarser but there’s only so much tool budget to go around and other things have had higher priority lately.
JR Ramos
The other rasp that changed my outlook was the giant novelty farrier’s rasp. Holy cow, a good one of those can really move some mountains (and fingertips). Simonds still has good ones but old stock Nicholson or Diamond are worth the patience if they show up for sale.
I lucked into some great pricing on Grobet (Vallorbe nos) metal rifflers awhile back so I finally picked up five of those. Well made tools are a joy.
fred
I have quite a few from Auriou – plus very old pattern maker’s rasps from Nicholson. Woodworking floats from Lie-Nielsen and Iwasaki round out my collection. I also sometime use some bigger old floats made by Heller Brothers for soft metals.
Lee valley and other still carry a limited selection of Auriou.
fred
https://www.leevalley.com/en-us/search#q=AURIOU&t=product-search-tab&sort=relevancy&layout=card&numberOfResults=25
https://www.highlandwoodworking.com/iwasaki-carving-files.aspx?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIp9njxsTc_gIVDRSzAB2egAlWEAMYASAAEgIObPD_BwE
Travis
My favorite hand tool is undoubtably my Snap-On ratcheting screwdriver. I use it constantly and it has lasted me for close to 20 years. I keep one in my truck, in my shop and in my EDC tool bag. Fantastic design, simple and always does the job.
My favorite power tool is the Milwaukee M12 Surge driver. I have used M12 drivers for a long time but a friend recently talked me into the Surge model and it is a pleasure to use.
William Adams
Isn’t that a re-badged Williams?
Travis
I’m not sure. The first one was given to me as a gift and I always re-order the same part number from Snap-On (SSDMR4BO) when I need a good gift or an extra one. Orange handle makes it tough to lose or leave behind.
Joe
Craftsman gyroscopic screwdriver. It may seem gimmicky, but it saves a bunch of time when assembling things, and it a whole lot smaller/easier than a full sized drill/driver. Probably the best feature is the speed, it’s not fast and that’s the point, I can actually drive slotted screws with it (the dewalt one is a bit faster, I like the craftsman one better).
Scott ALKB
About 10 years ago I got a Black & Decker gyro screwdriver based on Stuart’s article, and loved it. Gifted several to friends and family. Unfortunately they tended to lock up and die. Wah.
I did find the Dewalt DCF682 gyro after that. It’s been working fine ever since, with limited DIYer use.
I keep it paired with another favorite, a non-powered ratcheting screwdriver that has a thick handle, the sides of which slide off and reveal a total of about 30 one inch bits. It was from some no-name import PC tech toolkit, and I haven’t been able to find another one (in case I lose or break this one).
Stuart
The Craftsman is okay, but I absolutely hate its always-on LED light. It’s also a bit bulky.
I miss my Gyro – it was weirdly shaped but fit my hand perfectly. It didn’t break like Scott’s (sorry to hear that!) – I donated it a while back.
The Dewalt Gyroscopic drivers are decent, but for a tool like that I found I prefer built-in batteries.
SK
For me it’s a toss-up between my occidental leather tool bags and my old mag 77. 20 plus years of high-end residential framing and then working for a GC. My occidental bags have lasted 15 plus years at this point. They just fit and work. They’re durable. They’re laid out well. I just have the plane wide leather belt forum and it’s broken in perfectly.
With my mag 77 it’s just been the most durable reliable tool. I’ve got the old one, no rubber padding on the handles. It just works. I’ve gone through just three in my career. The first one caught fire three times before it died. Second one got stolen. Third one I’ve had for nearly 10 years now. I know they’ve made more advances with reducing the weight and other quality of life changes, but I will be keeping my old one until I’m no longer able to get replacement parts.
fred
We had some Mag77’s with bigfoot attachments. Never heard any grumbles about them.
https://www.amazon.com/Big-Foot-SK-1025KIT-2-Style-Attachment/dp/B01BD5H7Q0?th=1
Nate
My “user” Stanley #3 plane (Type 6) from approximately 1890. A nice little smoother, valuable to me because it was a gift from a family member.
My other favorite is an old drawknife. That’s one of the most pleasurable tools to use. Drawing is such
I am not a fan of collecting only tools only for display. They need to be used and cared for
I
Jason+S.
MegaPro Automotive Ratcheting Screwdriver – I am always happy when I use this tool. The ratchetting mechanism is extremely smooth, and I love that it takes normal bits. It appears to be nearly identical as the Channellock Ratchetting Screwdriver (which I also have), but with better/easier to replace 1 inch bits. I reach for this screwdriver often.
Joellikestools
The M12 Surge and the knipex 7 1/4 inch cobra are some of my faves.
I will add the Wera bit ratchet. More expensive than some other options. It is worth it for me and an all around high quality tool. I use it for all my 1/4″ drive needs at work. With bits the Insert through the head for really tight spots. The teeth are not exposed like on budget models. It feels sturdy and has never let me down.
Matt C.
For me it is the Leatherman Blast. I also have a Wave. But the blast is lighter and has everything I need. This is my go-to tool for most household repairs. It stays in the house. All of the other tools stay in the garage.
But as an honorable mention, I love the Pittsburgh extendable ratchet when working on the car. I can use it as a ratcheting breaker bar and then collapse it on the fly for better clearance and faster ratcheting. I’m waiting for one of HF’s numerous sales to get another one that I can throw in the jeep.
Adam
This would take a lot of thought and I’ll probably change my mind later but the Starrett automatic center punch is a perfect piece of kit for start accurately starting in any material. I’ve tried scores of others and a number of different awls, nothing comes close.
Jim Felt
Yep!
fred
Me too – highly recommended.
Vincent S.
My current favorite is my Snap-On Flank Drive Plus wrench set SOEX710. Here is the explanation, according to ChatGPT:
Snap-on Flank Drive Plus wrenches are considered to be some of the best wrenches in the market due to their unique design and advanced features. Here are some reasons why they are highly regarded:
1. Improved Grip: The Flank Drive Plus wrenches feature a special flank drive design, which provides better grip and reduces the chances of slippage. This helps to minimize the risk of damaging the fastener and ensures that the wrench stays securely in place.
2. Better Torque: The wrenches are designed to distribute force evenly across the flat surfaces of the fastener, which helps to increase torque and reduce the chances of rounding off the corners of the fastener.
3. Precision Fit: The Flank Drive Plus wrenches are designed to fit more precisely onto fasteners, reducing the chances of slipping and minimizing the need for repositioning. This saves time and effort, especially in tight spaces.
4. Durability: Snap-on tools are known for their durability and the Flank Drive Plus wrenches are no exception. They are made of high-quality materials and are built to withstand the rigors of heavy use and demanding work environments.
Overall, the Snap-on Flank Drive Plus wrenches are a popular choice among mechanics and DIY enthusiasts because of their superior performance, precision, and durability.
MM
I’ve often talked to my mechanic and gearhead friends about wrenches and debated the question: if all your tools disappeared and you had to purchase everything anew, knowing what you know now, what wrenches would you buy in what order of priority? It’s a question that invites endless discussion. There are several types of wrenches I wouldn’t be without and I find it very hard to rank them. But the #1 spot is easy: Snap-On Flank Drive Plus long pattern.
The extra-long double-flex ratcheting box end wrenches are also very nice, i.e. XFR704.
tim Rowledge
Festool RO150 sander must be the most used tool in recent years, and it makes large sanding jobs (almost) fun.
DeWalt 20v impact driver gets a lot of use too.
Most precious is surely my MiniMax CU300 slider-saw/jointer/planer/shaper/mortiser -couldn’t have built the house without it!
DC
My Milwaukee 2767 1/2 in M18 Impact wrench. Bought it 6-7 years ago when it was first released and it still rips wheel lug nuts, frame nuts and bolts, cv axle nuts (torqued to 200 lb-ft) and others. Bought a DeWalt DCF900 recently and it’s powerful. I bought the DeWalt to spread impacting to preserve my Milwaukee. Heard they updated the impact but failed. Hopefully they fixed it.
Jim Felt
Stuart. I’ve got both size ranges of these Klein strippers plus my cherished Craftsman Klein made mini versions. Also in both wire ranges.
Of all the German and even a few Japanese wire strippers I’ve tested (accumulated) I’ve never found anything better for my two very different wire gage size uses. Line voltage and low voltage Model Railroads.
Okay I do like the Greenlee Stainless Steel kickoffs but after selling our beach house they reside in a mostly stainless steel centric and now dormant tool box.
Oh. The garage sales of the future…
AC
After trying millions of these, I was die hard Klein Curve until I tried the newish Knipex 13-72-8.
They feel great in the hand and flat out make stripping easy while doing a lot more than Curves with better sheers and a beefier plier tip that probably covers 90% of what I used lineman for. I know there are a lot of do it all strippers out there, but these really are have the secret sauce. I had the Klein version as well and hated them.
Jim Felt
I tried that Knipex for a short while and just didn’t appreciate it. Too sharp of handling edges and bigger than I wanted as a kinda EDC tool.
I do like other Knipex tools but couldn’t get comfortable with this one.
Glad you could as it’s indeed very nicely made.
Ron
My favorite tool since I got into carpentry back in 1981 has to be my Stanley number 99. I have it with me always working or off it’s always on me.
fred
My most-used utility knife is a Tajima retractable.
https://www.amazon.com/Tajima-VR-103-Self-Retracting-Piece-Utility/dp/B007JQ7O2U
Not sue if it’s because of the great quality of Tajima blades – or because it hangs in a convenient spot in my garage. I went over to hanging a retractable there to help prevent “little tykes” from getting cut.
Other things hanging out in the garage – among my favorites are 3 Silky Saws (a Sugoi a Katanaboy and a Hayate). But on the less expensive end of things – my old codger back appreciates not having to bend down as much when sweeping up debris – employing a long-handled dustpan:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Quickie-14-in-Jumbo-Debris-Dust-Pan-49510/202523588
Jonah
Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB. I use this all day long and next to my Klein magnetic nut drivers it’s absolutely indispensible.
TonyT
When I think back over the past couple decades, my most used tools are:
1) Wiha precision screw drivers.
2) Bondhus hex wrenches (mostly L key, plus a set of acetate handle screwdriver style).
I bought my original sets ~25 years ago at Fry’s Electronics (which back then sold some pretty decent tools), they’re been used A LOT for both work and personal use, are still going strong, and even though I have some spiffier tools now, are still a joy to use.
AC
So many good ones, but most used tool is the:
VESSEL Electric ball grip screw driver
It’s just works so well and is hardly more cumbersome than a regular screwdriver. It works fine as hand driver too if you want a bit more finesse or want to really torque something down. If you’re shopping for these, there is a US and JP version as well as a high speed and high torque version.
I would get the original high torque model. It has plenty of speed for anything you’d use a hand driver for and I wouldn’t want it with less torque unless I had a very unique application.
The only difference between the JP and the US is the the position of the bit retaining detent. The JP detent is higher on the bit. I really like this driver with the two sided (#2 & Slotted) vessel go-sai bits, 65 or 110mm. The 65mm lives in mine with a Makita and discontinued Makita mag boost bit magnetizer slid over it. Nip picky notes: I like the Olsa magnetic screw holders best, but for some reason they don’t fit over the vessel bits. Vessel makes these too, but they are pretty long and get too close to the tip of the 65mm bit. They would be fine with the 110mm. Makita has a new version of the Magboost, but I haven’t tried it.
Troy Tempel
My Top 3
– Snap-On T-Handle Ratcheting Stubby Screwdriver (SSDMRT1O)
– Knipex Cobra 180
– Any of the Felo Ergonic Screwdrivers
Oh and the new Milwaukee socket sets have been pretty great!
fred
I have the T-Handle screwdrivers in 3 lengths – but mine are branded as Williams (SnapOn Industrial)
https://www.amazon.com/Williams-WRST1-Handle-Ratcheting-Screwdriver/dp/B001DNUUG2
They feel good in the hand and are fairly smooth operating.
Mike Fliss
M12 surge impact for me as well. I see so many people listing it, that I’ll add accessories: the magnetic bit pouch on one side (to hold a few hot swapped bits plus a dozen or more of whatever fastener I’m working with, plus a six inch Diablo quick release bit extension. What a powerhouse of a tool.
Jason
Currently – gear wrench thumb ratchet or gimbal ratchet. Awesome for tight spaces you can’t swing a handle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08748BLZZ
surfjungle
The Draper pistol grip ratchet from a generation ago is my most used hand tool. Well made, can be operated one handed and reasonably ergonomic for the time. Small enough to fit in a pocket and good enough for Nicholas Cage to use in The Rock. If PB Swiss made a pistol grip ratchet like Wera does, I might be swayed.
Marc
Leatherman Juice S2. It’s always with me & has solve more problems than any other tools I have. But I do love my Miller Falls 2500B hand drill.
mattd
My current favorites are the knipex twin grip pliers. They are flat out the most versatile pliers I own. The tip is fantastic for grabbing fasteners “nose on” and the jaws are just as good as the cobras. A straight pair of pliers with their adjustable jaw size and ability to grip fasteners straight on means that they are with me all day at work. I am super glad I waited for these instead of pulling the trigger on vampliers. I even bought a belt holster specifically for them.
MM
Twingrips are indeed awesome. I hope they run with the idea and make other sizes in the future.
Pete M
Anything Fluke for me. Have several multimeters, clamp meters and IR thermometers. A joy to use, accurate and problem free for many years.
My runner up is my optical punch that comes out when I need extreme accuracy.
Brian
Occidental Leather tool bags. Phenomenal.
durther
A hive tool. it’s just the tool for heavier-duty wedging and scrapping needs. My first job when I was 16 was as a honey extractor. I’ve never been without a hive tool since. (Not the fancy ones, just a single 9-inch model with the 90-degree bend.) My lastest one is made from stainless steel.
Jbongo
Have you every wanted to feel like a Time Lord with a Sonic Screwdriver? Then look no further than the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25. It’s an expanding multi-bit screwdriver where bits are stored conveniently inside the handle and has a bayonet blade that can even be used with a drill!
In all seriousness, I really enjoy the Kompakt and it’s my main around the house screwdriver. I really like the quick release chuck along with it’s unique handle.
eddie sky
Craftsman Acetate-handle 8″ blade #2 phillips driver.
Its the ideal length, can take magnetizer charge for holding screws, perfect for my electrical work go-to bag and easy to identify. And since a Craftsman, if it breaks or fails, can exchange for replacements – which are still available. There is even a longer 16″ but that’s too tall for my bag. I do have a cordless driver but this tool doesn’t need any power to use, and fits 90% of the electric screws on fixtures, fans, receptacles and boxes.
The only way I would replace is if someone like Wiha had a HiVoltage version with similar fit and use.
Fowler
With regard to wire strippers, I prefer the very similar Platinum Tools 15005C that I got at a local electronics shop before it closed. They go from 16-30AWG, and I think having one curved handle and one straight handle makes them more comfortable to hold than the Kleins. They might also be lighter, which I think is nicer for bench work.
For a set of do-everything pliers, I like the Klein 1019. They strip wires from 10-28AWG, they have the #8 and #6 screw cutters, they have built in crimpers, and an IDC splice squisher. I really just wish they were spring-loaded.
And for a power tool, my most used is definitely the Hitachi/Metabo HPT DB3 DL2 screwdriver. I mostly work on electronics, so being able to run screws out quickly is a much bigger deal to me than torque. I also just really like the ergonomics of the factory-style inline screwdrivers. I think that being able to fold the handle and put pressure directly in line with the screw is a better experience than you get with a pistol-grip tool like a drill or impact driver.
As an accessory to that tool, I think a set of 4″ long hex drive Philips bits are essential. I would guess that many stripped screws on consumer devices are caused by people using a PH1 screwdriver on a PH2 screw because it’s in a 5mm diameter hole and a normal PH2 driver doesn’t fit. But with a long bit, you can get a PH2 driver with a 4 or 5mm diameter and get a very positive lock on the screw.
Rob L.
I love my Ryobi 18v cordless hot glue gun. I have two, one for black glue, one for natural/clear – they just make things so much easier for all the random things I do. Shocking how helpful tools can be when they’re always ready to use.
Mister+Mike
My most used power tool is the Bosch Chameleon 12-volt Cordless Drill with four attachments that transform it to a drill chuck, 1/4″ short-nose driver, offset driver, and right-angle driver. This tool has solved more problems than I can count. The offset driver reaches screws in tight corners. The right-angle handles drawer slides or brackets in shallow recesses. The short-nose keeps the driver bit close to the screw. And the chuck lets me change from driver to drill bit with a simple twist. And there’s an LED light too.
It’s a great tool for attaching hardware or working on appliances and has become my favorite of the several Bosch 12v (formerly 10v) cordless tools that I’ve owned. The tool has a very nice grip and is a very durable system for both motor and battery. It gets regular use every day.
Nick Soo
x2 on that one. I have a full set of 20v Dewalt, but one day I saw the Chameleon on sale and got it just thinking it’d be a nice travel set to have handy, and something for lighter duty work. I keep a set of bits in the case with it, and it’s my go-to now for 90% of what I do around the house and at my parents. Really nice set. I don’t have the brushless version, but the battery life and power are exceptional in my opinion.
Greg
What a good idea for a post. I learned quite a bit from the comments.
Like many commenters here, I love Knipex pliers. However, my absolute favorites are the multigrip linesman’s model:
https://www.kctool.com/knipex-09-02-240-9-4-linemans-pliers-multigrip/
The hinge is smooth, the grips are comfortable, and the leverage is excellent. They’re also tough: I once dropped mine onto a 1/2″ steel tabletop on a job, and the only thing damaged was the tabletop.
GravediggerOzy
As a professional gravedigger, the most indepspensible tool in my arsenal is the DeWit Solid Socket Dutch Digging spade. I use it on absolutely every dig. The thick carbon steel is impossibly sharp and retains an impressive edge which is easy to keep sharp. The price is steep ($160-190) but it’s one of those tools which is life-changing. People look at the shape and often question whether it’s appropriate until they get their hands on it.
If you dig for a living, do yourself a favour and give the Dewit Dutch Digging Spade a shot. I would LOVE to see this reviewed on ToolGuyd.
Woody
Peckerwood products hit the mark as well accurate easy read design for all projects in mind clamps very versatile snap to use along pica pencil ideal match throw in 4 ft I beam from stabil all notable and worth the investment
Droid
M18 surge impact driver is my favorite tool. Smooth quiet with unmatched control. Plus the screws we use are atrocious quality and always want to slip off the bit. I find the surge with its far more gentle impacting helps for that. My only complaint is that it’s long due for an update.
Sam T
Milwaukee 13-1 with ECX bits. I’m not sure why more 10-1’s don’t include ECX bits but they are far less likely to strip can using a #2 or 1/4″ flathead. Great for panel work or installing outlets/switches. Also covers a lot of different nut drivers in one tool.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-13-in-1-Multi-Tip-Cushion-Grip-Screwdriver-48-22-2880/305456601