Since my family has destroyed/lost a lot of my hand tools over the years, I've decided I'm starting fresh. I'm keeping my torque wrench, and a few other goodies, but for the most part, I'm donating most of my tools. I'm wondering if you guys have any advice on buying a toolset. I'm only 23 and will be most likely apartment hopping for the next decade of my life, so size does matter. You also won't see me doing major repairs either because of the apartment situation. I am looking at craftsmen because of the quality and warranty, but I just don't know how to balance getting what I need vs overspending on too much.
Basically, I want something that is complete enough that I don't have to run to the parts store and buy loose singles and repeat the process I had again, but also don't want to have a 500 piece toolset in a 500 sq ft apartment when I'm just changing alternators/slave cylinders.
Any suggestions?
1991 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX - SOLD 2006 Mustang GT Convertible
#47862, "RE: Buying a toolset" In response to Reply # 0
Check out the Craftsman 175+ kits. Alot of times they put them on sale. Id definitely also buy a extension set, 3/8 to 1/2 adapter, and fill in the MM gap from 10 to 21mm.
I bought three of them on sale around this time a couple years ago.
#47863, "RE: Buying a toolset" In response to Reply # 1
fyi Kobalt also has a lifetime warranty on their tools as well. I usually find them a little but cheaper than craftman tools and never had an issue with them.
#47866, "RE: Buying a toolset" In response to Reply # 4
I'll second Craftsman....had all my stuff for about 10 years. Snap-On would be the best, but I don't have that kind of dough to spend on tools. I'm starting to like some Kobalt stuff and like mentioned above, they have the warranty also.
Sears always runs sales on the tool sets. Also, you get great deals if you join the Craftsman Club....it's free. Sign up for email allerts and they send you good coupons.
#47867, "RE: Buying a toolset" In response to Reply # 5
If I remember correctly, Husky, and ACE Hardware also provide lifetime warranties on their hand tools (hoping to hit Home Depot tomorrow to verify on Husky, and use up a gift card). I can confirm on ACE, they replaced the same Torx bit 5 times for me (Grand Am from hell).
I can not speak for a whole set since my tool collection was purpose purchases in set "sections"(I will not buy a set since I despise 12pt sockets, only a handful on hand).
That is added to my 1/2 inch breaker bar, adapters, crescent wrench, torque wrench, needle-nose pliers, and vice grip.
Should be good to go since, like I said, I'm doing apartment living for the next decade of my life, most likely. Pretty much limits me to over engine bay work (no jacking the car up).
1991 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX - SOLD 2006 Mustang GT Convertible
