Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Hand Tools). This thread is read-only.
If your like me, you’ve got a peg board or a toolbox (or both) full of tools that were manufactured and purchased for specific but limited range of task. What I want to know is which of those tools do you find yourself reaching for the most? I’m not talking about which one you have the most use for, I’m talking about the one you FIND the most use for. That one tool you can’t help but reach for even when you know another tool is probably better suited for the job. That one tool that just feels so right in your hand that your willing to improvise to make it work.
Good question. I am going to have to keep a tab now. The only thing I can really think of is my screw driver, flat head. I use it for prying, making shims and more. I just don’t use it on flat heads anymore because they aren’t around, which is good.
I have three tools that I use “more” than I should.
- Circular saw. I really hate having to drag out a table saw or miter saw for just a cut or two. If you can’t build it with a circular saw , it probably can’t be built.
- Klein 11 in 1 screwdriver, yes a regular screwdriver is a lot more sturdy, but the convenience of of having most common bits available in a small package that is easy to carry around make this just good enough tool, a daily use one.
- Vice grips, who needs a set of wrenches or clamps when you have vice grips?
I’m constantly reaching for my Proto bent needle nose pliers. They’re so handy I just can’t stop myself from grabbing them. I broke about 1/4 off one of the tips. Ground them down with a bench grinder and they’re good as new.
I have an old big flat driver that gets used for all sorts too. LOL 🙂
Wayne Burgess wrote:
I have an old big flat driver that gets used for all sorts too. LOL 🙂
While I do have my “beat-on” screwdriver, I find that I use my painters 6 in 1 for most of my can’t be bothered to go fetch the right tool jobs. I use it as a scraper, a pry bar, a hammer, a screwdriver (the pointed end even works to drive phillips)a putty knife, and it works great at jimmying doors and windows open too. I don’t understand why this tool doesn’t get more love, and why people look at me funny for carrying it
I have one not quite as well made and it is very handy the one you posted looks a quality made tool. 🙂
Wayne Burgess wrote:
I have one not quite as well made and it is very handy the one you posted looks a quality made tool. 🙂
I have at least a half a dozen in varying qualities, The Purdy is one of my favorites, Hyde also makes a few decent versions, I personally think their 14 in 1 is going a little overboard though.
Yea, I agree. That 14 in 1 is a little much.