All About Hand Tools

The difference between a spanner and a hammer

 
Hammer

Why a hammer you ask? Well even if you can't remember the last time you framed a wall, a hammer is essential to have around. A hammer will not only help you hang a picture or apply trim, it can also be used as a lever to pry stubborn boards. Craftsman's ripping claw hammer is convenient for both driving nails and to use as a pry bar given its long straight claw.

Tips

When removing nails from walls or finished wood furniture, you can put a magazine under the head to protect the surface of the object or wall.

Have a bolt that is rusted? Spray with a light oil and hit the bolt with the hammer using moderate force, making sure not to disfigure the hardware. This will help to release a seized bolt.

Pipe wrench

Chances are you will need this wrench once or twice over the years. Why should you run out and buy one ahead of time? Well, the moment you need it you will want to have it on hand. Usually the need arises when something valuable falls down the drain. It is probably best to get large channel lock type pliers that can remove the U shaped pipe below the sink, and will be versatile enough for other applications.

Tips

The U pipe below your sink will be filled with water. Be prepared for this so you don't spill it in your eyes.

Fill the U pipe back up right away after finding the piece of jewelry that fell down the drain. The U pipe actually acts as a valve so that the water held within it stops noxious sewer gases from filling your home.

Tool boxes

A good choice is a multi-drawer box that isn't too big to be carried once filled, but is big enough that you have room for the tools you will accumulate over the years. Keep in mind you want room for everything from woodworking tools to the air tools that you will graduate to down the road.

Stanley tools offers boxes that have rollers and a handle like luggage. Most toolboxes are very affordable excepting the large heavy-duty kind used by auto mechanics. A mechanic's toolbox can be quite nice but it is certainly not necessary for the average do-it-yourselfer.

Tips

Buy a tool when you need it. Don't borrow it. If you need it once, chances are you will need it again.

Don't worry that your toolbox looks empty and lonely. You will fill it soon enough.

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