Must-Have Tools for Every Skill Level

This Old House Magazine

Father's day weekend is upon us! Is YOUR dad covered when it comes to must-have tools? Check his inventory against our must-have lists for the beginner, semi-skilled, and experienced DIYer-dad. Just remember that no experienced DIYer's kit is complete unless it contains the tools from the beginner and semi-skilled collections!

Tool List
Tool List


See the full list here!

Beginner Skill Level: You can fix almost anything with some basic hand tools.

Screwdriver Set
Screwdriver Set


1. Screwdriver Set. We recommend this set from Stanley Tools

2. Tape Measure. We recommend this model from Stanley Tools

Tool Box
Tool Box


3. Toolbox. We recommend this model from Ace Hardware

4. Hammer. We recommend this smooth-faced claw model from Plumb

5. Duct Tape. We recommend this kind from Gorilla Glue

6. Flashlight. We recommend this model from Snap-On

7. Set of Pliers. We recommend this set from Channel Lock

8. Utility Knife. We recommend this model from Stanley Tools

Putty Knife
Putty Knife


9. Putty Knife. We recommend this model from Hyde Tools

10. Handsaw. We recommend this model from Stanley Tools

11. Adjustable Wrench. We recommend this pair from Cresent


RELATED: Save Fuel, Energy, and Money with Hand Tools


Semi-Skilled Skill Level: You've done some repairs over the years, but now you're ready for more ambitious projects.

Multibit Screwdriver
Multibit Screwdriver


1. Multibit Screwdriver. We recommend this model from Lee Valley

2. 35-Foot Tape Measure. We recommend this model from Bostitch

3. Bucket-Liner Tool Organizer. We recommend this model from Bucket Boss

18-Volt Nickel-Cadmium Drill/Driver and Circular Saw
18-Volt Nickel-Cadmium Drill/Driver and Circular Saw


4. 18-Volt Nickel-Cadmium Drill/Driver and Circular Saw. We recommend this combo kit from Porter-Cable

5. 4-Foot Level. We recommend this sturdy metal one from Johnson Level & Tool

6. Wheelbarrow. We recommend this model with a steel tub from Ames

7. Stud Finder. We recommend this rechargeable model from Ryobi Tools

Socket Set
Socket Set


8. Socket Set. We recommend this set from Stanley Tools

9. Multitool. We recommend this stainless-steel 12-tool model from Leatherman


For MORE, see our recommendations for Experienced DIYer-Dads (who are ready to tackle almost any project, big or small)!


See the complete list on ThisOldHouse.com


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