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Top 10 Tools for the DIYer
 
1. Power Tool Combo Kit
Power Tool Combo Kits offer a tremendous value for todays DIYer. Cordless Power Tool Combo Kits range from 3.6 Volt to 24 Volt. For the average DIYer, an 18 Volt kit will be more than enough power to get even the biggest jobs around the house done. Corded Power Tool Combo Kits are also available but the flexibility of not hanving to plug in is well worth the higher cost of the cordless kits.
2. Screwdriver Set with Various Sizes
Look for Screwdriver Sets that feature forged, alloy steel blades with lifetime warranties. The ideal set would have both slotted and Phillips-style tips in various sizes to meet any application.
 
 
3. Wrench Set
There are so many different types of wrench sets available and must are application specific. For a full description of different wrenches available, please visit the Buying Guides. For the average DIYer, your toolbox must include a socket set and adjustable wrench set. With these two sets, you should be able to accomplish most tasks.
 
4. Hammer
Hammers are often designed for a specific purpose, and vary widely in their shape, weights and structure. The DIYer should have at least a claw hammer in his toolbox. The prefer claw hammer is a single-piece forged, heat-treated steel where the head and handle are integral. These hammers often have polymer grips to add to their ergonomics and decrease vibrations when the hammer is used. Look for a weight that is comfortable for you. If you are doing heavy work, go for a heavier hammer.
 
5. Portable Tool Box
Tool Boxes commonly have a hinged cover for a top with a handle for carrying, and one or more latches securing the cover to the box. Look for one that when open has smaller compartments located inside for organization. Larger toolboxes will often have a removable tote tray sitting on a flange inside the lip of the box, with a single larger compartment below. Do not go cheap on your tool box. You have invested in your tools and you will need a sturdy and safe place to store them.
 
6. Finish Nailer & Portable Compressor
A nail gun, or nailer, is a type of tool used to drive nails into wood or some other kind of material. It is usually driven by compressed air (pneumatic) but can be driven also by electromagnetism, highly flammable gases such as butane or propane, or for powder-actuated tools, a small explosive charge. Nail guns have in many ways replaced hammers as tools of choice amongst builders and many DIYers. Nail guns often do not use individual nails. Instead, the nails are mounted in long strips (similar to a stick of staples) or in a plastic carrier coil, depending on the design of the nail gun. There are many types or styles of guns, including brad nailers, finish nailers and framing nailers. In addition, some nailers come as straight or angled. For DIY projects around the house, a kit that includes various gun sizes and air compressor is recommended.
 
7. Compound Miter Saw with Laser
A miter saw (also called a chop saw or drop saw) is a power tool used to make a quick, accurate crosscuts in a workpiece. Common uses include framing operations and the cutting of molding (or casing). Most miter saws are relatively small and portable, with common blade sizes ranging from eight to 12 inches. A primary distinguishing feature of the miter saw is the miter index. The miter index allows the angle of the blade to be changed relative to the fence. While most miter saws enable precise one-degree incremental changes to the miter index, many also provide "stops" that allow the miter index to be quickly set to common angles (such as 15°, 30°, or 45°). A compound feature allows the angle of the cutting blade to be changed relative to the horizontal plane. This allows the saw to be used for bevel cutting. Some compound features allow the angle to be set between 0° and 50°, but they have generally been replaced by the more useful "double-bevel" which allows the angle to be set between -50° and 50°. A saw with a compound feature is known as a compound miter saw .
 
8. Jigsaw
A jigsaw is a tool used for cutting arbitrary curves, such as stenciled designs or other custom shapes, into a piece of wood or similar material. It can be used in a more artistic fashion than other saws, which typically only cut in straight lines.
9. Pliers
As with other tools, there are many different types of pliers. The DIYer should at least, at a minimum, have three different types (linesman pliers, cutting pliers and needle nose pliers). For more information on the different ypes of pliers, please visit the Buying Guides.
10. Shop Vacuum
A very important necessity in your shop is a "shop vac". No doubt, when repairing and renovating a mess can be made. A shop vac makes clean up a breeze. Make sure the shop vac you buy is built to clean up both wet and dry spills.