For a while I’ve been wondering what you need in a basic starting toolbox:
- Drill – a small electric drill is probably best, but a hand drill would be good as well
- Drill bits – a set of 1 to 10mm twist drill bits and a 6mm masonry bit
- Hammer
- Small tack/panel hammer
- Claw Hammer
- Knife – I think we all need a Stanley knife: robust but simple at the same time.
- Swann-Morton Scalpel – if you’re more into fine model making
- Level – a basic spirit level so that you get the shelves straight
- Pliers – I bought and reviewed some Draper general purpose pliers – a robust starter.
- Ruler – a 12″ or 300mm steel ruler is best as it can be used as a straight edge to cut up to or as a measuring device
- Saw
- Junior hacksaw
- Small woodsaw
- Screwdrivers – flat and cross-bit
- Spanner – to start with an adjustable spanner will cover the basics, the old fashioned adjustable KingDick brand is a great starter.
- Square – a general purpose woodworking square or a large engineers square, when you’re starting out you want a square around 6 to 8″
I know I’ve missed stuff so please do send me a note of adds/deletes and specific makes of tool that are best.
You will also need a toolbox and there are lots of options:
- Large tuppaware box
- Homemade wooden box – lots of ideas on pinterest
- Trusco Toolbox – the Rolls-Royce of toolboxes