Recommendation needed for hand tools

[MTROIS]

Marc,

FYI I was just at Sears on rt 46 in Parsippany and they are remodeling and tools are 25% off and I thought of your thread so I figured I would let you know

Thanks for the ti and all the recommendations guys!! I actually went to Sears lst night and got a 94-pc tool set.... it was $20 off so in the end I only paid $60. With the exception of a few things, I think I am set for the time being... but I can already see that this is a never ending process.

Thanks again!

[JRLNJ]

Let me be the first to push you to the next level-buy a small compressor, while you're at the Sears' sale. It's amazing to be able to pump up your stuff (tires, -cars, bikes, bicycles, rafts, basketballs..) at home. Then give Harbor freight a look for air powered lug wrench/rachet. I agree that Harbor freight's quality is not up to commercial standards, but for hobbyist work, they seem fine. I've used the air wrench to speed tire changes twice a year on 4 cars, for four years, and it's still working.

[jnscaldwell]

Like Bob, I have begun to transition away from Craftsman to Snap-On for things like ratchets and torque wrenches. The quality of these items is outstanding. For casual use I think Craftsman is fine. Plus if it fails just bring it back and get a new one. I also recommend you purchase a set of Snap On or similar high quality hex (allen) sockets. Tim mentioned this above too. You WILL round off one of these style fasteners if you try to use a cheap set. Well worth the investment. Also, grab a set of Gear Wrench (or similar) ratcheting wrenches. I got a set recently and I am amazed at how much I use them. As many said also I tend to use 3/8" drive for most things since that's what I have. I have started to build a 1/2" drive selection as recent heavy suspension and subframe work mandated it. You'll be amazed at how fast you begin to fill your tool box. Oh, a nice set of swivel sockets is good to have since clearance can be an issue in some cases.