THE 10 ESSENTIAL TOOLS EVERY MAN SHOULD HAVE AT HOME
READY FOR ANY HOME EMERGENCY? BE THE HERO OF YOUR HOUSEHOLD!
Tired of depending on others for small repairs? With THESE 10 ESSENTIAL TOOLS, you'll be ready to face almost any household challenge. Investing in quality tools means investing in autonomy and long-term savings!
10. MULTI-BIT SCREWDRIVER
Why you need it: A versatile screwdriver saves space and solves most household problems.
Best American brands:
- DeWalt: Model 71-966 (set with 29 bits)
- Klein Tools: Model 32500 (resistant and durable)
- Craftsman: CMHT68001 (excellent cost-benefit)
Practical uses:
- Furniture assembly
- Replacing electrical switches (with power off!)
- Tightening screws on loose hinges
- Opening covers of electronic devices for cleaning
GOLDEN TIP: Choose a screwdriver with an ergonomic handle and integrated bit storage. DeWalt's magnetic model keeps screws secure during work.
9. PROFESSIONAL CLAW HAMMER
Why you need it: Far beyond hammering nails, a good hammer is essential for assembly, demolition, and adjustments.
Best American brands:
- Stanley: FatMax Xtreme (fiberglass handle, absorbs impact)
- Estwing: E3-16C (forged in one piece, legendary durability)
- Vaughan: CF2HC (preferred by professional carpenters)
Practical uses:
- Installing picture frames and shelves
- Removing nails with the forked part
- Adjustments in furniture and warped doors
- Small controlled demolitions carpenters)
EXPERT TRICK: Prefer hammers with fiberglass handles or steel with rubber grip, which reduce vibration and impact on the wrist. A 16oz (454g) hammer is the most versatile for home use.
8. PROFESSIONAL 5-METER TAPE MEASURE
Why you need it: Precise measurements are the foundation of any successful project.
Best American brands:
- Stanley: FatMax Xtreme (fiberglass handle, absorbs impact)
- Estwing: E3-16C (forged in one piece, legendary durability)
- Vaughan: CF2HC (preferred by professional carpenters)
Practical uses:
- Measuring for furniture and shelf installation
- Centering pictures and decorative elements
- Precise cutting of materials
- Checking spaces for new furniture
- Measuring for renovation projects
PROFESSIONAL TIP: Choose a tape measure with automatic lock and a floating hook on the tip. The Stanley FatMax has scale on both sides of the tape and remains rigid up to 3m without bending!
7. HIGH-QUALITY MULTIPURPOSE PLIERS
Why you need it: A good pair of pliers solves tightening, cutting, and bending problems with surprising efficiency.
Best American brands:
- Leatherman: Wave+ (the Swiss Army knife of pliers)
- Channellock: 420 series (manufactured in the USA since 1886)
- Knipex: CoBolt (impressive cutting power)
Practical uses:
- Tightening nuts and screws in difficult-to-access places
- Cutting wires (with power off!)
- Removing bent nails
- Holding small parts during
- Straightening thin bent metals assembly
IMPORTANT WARNING: Never use regular pliers on energized electrical installations! For electrical work, use only pliers with certified insulation.
6. CORDLESS DRILL/DRIVER
Why you need it: It's the most versatile and useful power tool for any home.
Best American brands:
- Milwaukee: M18 FUEL (professional power, long-lasting battery)
- DeWalt: 20V MAX XR (excellent balance between price and quality)
- Makita: LXT (compact and lightweight, ideal for tight spaces)
Practical uses:
- Quick furniture assembly
- Installing shelves and brackets
- Drilling into walls for fixings
- Mixing paints and compounds with mixer attachment
- Removing rusty screws
SPECIALIST SECRET: Invest in a drill with at least 18V of power and two batteries. A basic set of bits for wood, metal, and concrete will multiply your possibilities. The DeWalt model has an integrated LED light that illuminates the work point!
5. PROFESSIONAL BUBBLE LEVEL
Why you need it: Perfect alignment is what separates amateur work from professional work.
Best American brands:
- Empire: e78 True Blue (industrial precision)
- Johnson Level: Mahogany series (fine wood finish)
- Stabila: 196 series (gold standard in precision)
Practical uses:
- Installing perfectly aligned picture frames
- Assembling furniture without tilt
- Checking floors before installations
- Aligning shelves and cabinets
- Installing curtains and blinds
VALUABLE TRICK:A level with a magnetic bubble allows work on metal surfaces without having to hold it. Never economize on this tool - an imprecise level compromises all your work.
4. SET OF ALLEN (HEX) KEYS
Why you need it: Essential for modern furniture and electronic devices.
Best American brands:
- Bondhus: GoldGuard (anti-corrosion coating)
- Klein Tools: 70583 series (ergonomic L-shape)
- Tekton: 25282 (complete set with 30 pieces)
Practical uses:
- Assembly of practically all modern furniture
- Bicycle maintenance
- Adjustments to home appliances
- Assembly of sports equipment
- Maintenance of computers and electronics
PRACTICAL TIP: Choose a set with L-shaped keys and rounded ends on the short tip, which allow you to reach screws at difficult angles. The Bondhus set includes a color-coded case for quick size identification.
3. MULTIPURPOSE HAND SAW
Why you need it: Versatile for precise cuts in various materials.
Best American brands:
- Stanley: FatMax (saws for different materials)
- Irwin: Marathon series (coated blades for durability)
- Bahco: ProfCut series (superior ergonomics)
Practical uses:
- Cutting wood for small projects
- Trimming PVC pipes during installations
- Adjustments to decorative moldings
- Cuts in drywall for repairs
- Pruning in gardening
EXPERT GUIDANCE:For home use, a saw with 11 teeth per inch offers versatility for cutting both wood and plastics. The Stanley FatMax has three blade positions that facilitate cuts at difficult angles.
2. SET OF COMBINATION WRENCHES
Why you need it: Indispensable for plumbing work, bicycles, and basic mechanics
Best American brands:
- Craftsman: 20-piece series (lifetime warranty)
- GearWrench: ratcheting system (agility in limited spaces)
- Proto: 1200 series (industrial quality for home use)
Practical uses:
- Assembly of equipment with nuts and bolts
- Maintenance of the hydraulic system
- Mounting brackets for TVs and equipment
- Minor automotive repairs
- Adjustments to bicycles and fitness equipment
VALUABLE SECRET: The GearWrench set with ratcheting system saves 80% of movement in tight spaces. Prefer wrenches with chrome finish that resist corrosion and are easy to clean.
1. ELECTRIC STAPLER/NAILER
Why you need it: Perfect for quick fixing and finishing in decoration and upholstery.
Best American brands:
- Arrow Fastener: T50AC (reliable classic)
- Stanley: TRE550 (electric for heavy work)
- Dewalt: DWHTTR350 (durable for frequent use)
Practical uses:
- Cutting wood for small projects
- Trimming PVC pipes during installations
- Adjustments to decorative moldings
- Cuts in drywall for repairs
- Pruning in gardening
EXPERT GUIDANCE:For home use, a saw with 11 teeth per inch offers versatility for cutting both wood and plastics. The Stanley FatMax has three blade positions that facilitate cuts at difficult angles.
