Hardware Buying Guides

Hand Tools Buying Guide

From basic cutting and chiselling to specialist equipment and staying safe on site, a well-stocked toolkit is a must-have for any tradesperson. Whether working on simple maintenance tasks or large-scale renovation projects, our hand tools buying guide explains how to choose the right equipment for the job at hand, as well as what to consider before purchasing.

For cutting and sanding

Hand sanders

Sanding by hand when working with materials such as wood or metal is the first step to priming, and the final step in finishing. Sanding pads are rated with different grit numbers to determine how course the paper is. The higher the number, the smoother the finish. Lower grits are best used for rough surface materials.

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Hand saws

No trade kit would be complete without a handheld saw, as they are a compact companion that are easy to carry and work with. From hacksaws for trimming pipework to double-ground teeth panel saws for cutting through thick wood, these are an excellent choice where powered kits are cumbersome.

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Clamps

When fixing or gluing parts, these grips act like a second pair of hands for holding materials in place, whether that is applying adhesive or simply freeing up both hands to work on components. With adjustable openings, they can be used for a wide variety of materials, and are a staple in any kit.

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Artwork illustration for a woodworking rasp

Files and rasps

Used to remove sharp edges and blemishes, these products are great when preparing surfaces for a smooth finish, so they are ready for staining, priming or painting. A versatile piece of kit for any task, they are vital for tidying up laminated edgings or where sharp metal needs smoothing down for a professional finish.

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Illustration for a woodworking saw horse

Sawhorses

Providing support when cutting or working with materials, these freestanding frames improve safety on site, creating a supportive surface for a range of materials, like planks or plasterboard. They also make work more comfortable, as there is no need to crouch or bend when completing tasks.

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Illustration of a manual woodworking chisel

Wood chisels

When working on areas such as doorways or cabinetry, chiselling will refine a recess for a flush fit. There are different sized blades depending on the work. For example, larger widths and thicknesses are great when working on staircases, while smaller pieces are designed for precise work like door keeps.

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Toolbox essentials

Screwdrivers

From tightening components, constructing furniture, or working with wiring, screwdrivers are a must-have for anyone in the trade. Kitting your van out with plenty of sizes and head types will ensure you always have the right part for the job. Look out for those with a carbon steel build for added durability, while VDE models are non-conductive to keep you safe from electrical shock.

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Hammers

Every trade expert should keep their trusty “persuader” close at hand, whether it is something lightweight for basic nailing or a sledgehammer for demanding demolitions. An ergonomic handle ensures comfort, even after a long day on the tools, while a claw-head makes nail removals a breeze. Rubber mallets are also great all-rounders for knocking materials in place without causing damage.

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Artwork illustration for a retractable knife

Knives

Whether it is making cuts in solid materials or opening plastic packaging, a professional must be well-equipped with the right knife. Often lightweight, these trusty blades can be carried with you while on the job with many retractable designs available to prevent accidental cuts. Remember to stock up on spare blades, so you always have plenty of extras in supply.

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What to consider before you buy

Type of job

Essential everyday items are just one part of a toolkit. Depending on the task, specialist gear could be needed to carry out work and achieve a flawless finish. For example, when working on new or existing floors, knocking blocks are vital for aligning planks, whereas rollers can be used to apply pressure when fitting vinyl panels.

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Decoration equipment

Getting tooled up for a project is vital, even for quick and easy work like decorating. It is important to consider whether areas will require painting, priming or staining as part of the project. Items like rollers, trays, and different-sized brushes will achieve a professional finish and consistent results for your customers.

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Accuracy and quality

Measure twice, cut once – a timeless trade mantra for even the most basic work. Pocket-sized levels or tapes are a must-have when completing tasks. More high-tech equipment, like laser measures, could be used for long distances or to ensure fixings are plumb. This is particularly useful when preparing floors or fixing items to walls.

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Builder with toolbox fixing drawer frontal

Get organised

Knowing where to find essential parts and keeping your equipment stored neatly will save valuable time on site. That is why clear organisation is so important. Boxes can help protect your kit from damage, prolonging the life of your tools, while organisers can keep fixings together, so you know what you have and when you need to replenish.

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Preparing and cleaning up

There is nothing worse than a painfully long clean up. So, when getting set up, dust sheets are great at protecting floors and furniture from decorating, plastering, and other messy work. When it comes to clearing up, specific solvents may be required to remove excess sealants or adhesives for a tidy finish.

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Builders tools

While getting a project finished is the end goal, keeping a tidy worksite is equally valuable for you and your customer. Equipment, such as buckets and other builders’ tools, make it easy to transport waste and debris away from site before being disposed of. This ensures that a space is safe to work in and frees up room to improve access.

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Staying safe on the job

Construction is messy work that can get hazardous quickly. Ensuring you have the right protective gear not only keeps you safe from injury but can also creates a better working environment. For example, on sites where wood dust or airborne particles pose a risk, respiratory masks can be a great way to minimise danger and be compliant.

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