Originally posted by: Antisocial-Virge
Don't buy the "proffesional" screwdrivers. Took them back the first day and went and bought Kleins.
Why is that? For me the 'professional' handles fit much better in my hand. I did wear my #2 phillips out and twisted two standard blades but all were replaced free.
It seems the original poster has his tool list figured out, but for other's thinking about tools:
If I had a $400 credit and lacked most hand tools, I would get one of their tool sets, they are the most bang for the buck.
Compressor + nailer would be a waste, how much nailing are you going to be doing that you'd want to drag in a compressor and nailer. If you woodwork alot a router stand is worthwhile, same with a sander, otherwise hand sanding and using a router without a stand is just as good. You also need to think of where you will put your tools when not in use.
I have a ton of tools and use them all pretty regularly between helping others with home/car projects and my own jobs. I would say the power tools I use the most in order are my drill, dremel, circular saw, table saw, bench grinder, router, orbital sander, belt sander.
Around the house you are going to be using hammer and nail (hanging stuff mostly), #2 phillips and a 1/4" standard both about 4-5" would be best, standard socket set and combo wrenches (1/4"-5/8" would cover most jobs household), standard hex keys, utility knife, level, miter box and back saw, a medium sized adjustable wrench that can cover up to 7/8"), good flashlight, and a box to stick all of it in and allow you room to grow.
Sears # 46564 is a 213 piece mechanics set that includes a good mix of standard/metric sockets, and a tool box I think...value of set is $685.78...............$199.99 (great deal)
Sears also has a 140 piece all standard and 140 piece all metric (#'s 33141 / 33941) each worth over $600 for $199.99 each
I think 33426 looks like a great deal, 336 pieces worth over $1200 for only $399.
tons of other great deals, take a look at what's included and see what you think you'll use and what you won't...then buy the best value...you should be able to get a nice home set and add in a drill/hammer/saw/tool box and still be around $400.
The best bang for buck comes with buying a 'set' and then you can supplement with ebay or the store. Ebay is a great place to pick up craftsman tools and if you don't like the condition, you can return them for a free replacement at any sears (hand tools that is)
