As I'm getting closer to finishing up tool totes for the grandsons, I remembered my mom's maxim that you shouldn't give an empty purse or wallet as a gift.

So, I'd like to get them a very minimal tool set to include.  I've looked at the usual suspects and they are either too much or very cheap tools.   I'd rather get 4 or 5 nice tools than a dozen that won't last.

 

So, I'm wondering what to include.   I put together a small set for my daughters when they headed off to college and they still have and use them.

 

- utility knife

- tape measure

- 16 oz hammer

- Pliers or "channel lock" type tool

- Multi-tip screwdriver that includes slotted, phillips and square drive at least (I like my Pic-Quic)

adjustable wrench?

Regular pliers. They are a lot more versatile than Channel locks....IMO. 

 

Their ages might be a factor for tool selection.

 

My wife's favorite tool is a dinner knife- screwdriver, prybar, hammer, etc. I'm glad you are starting your grandkids with proper tools.

Locking pliers, or "Vice Grips".

pencil, small square

Thanks, good ideas,keep them coming.  We plan to add tools over the next few years.

They (twin boys) are 16.   I am not sure where there interests will lead them.   They help out with home remodeling, have done some  carving and turning (I recommended their dad get a used Shopsmith from a friend of mine), at school they do robotics, and just took a blacksmithing class this summer.

My parents bought me a tool kit containing the basic household tools a set of philips heads flat heads of different sizes a couple of wrenches and a set of pliers.  Simple but then again I have had quite a few tools already.

That is quite a spread between robotics and blacksmithing.  Maybe one of those free multi testers from HF?  Or maybe they already have their eyes on a wanted/needed tool and a 20% off coupon for HF would be useful

 

Where's Herb, @Dadio when we need him?  Go HF!

Good choices.  I would add an adjustable wrench as John suggested.

2 hours ago, Cal said:

That is quite a spread between robotics and blacksmithing.  Maybe one of those free multi testers from HF?  Or maybe they already have their eyes on a wanted/needed tool and a 20% off coupon for HF would be useful

 

Where's Herb, @Dadio when we need him?  Go HF!

Only problem is they live miles from anywhere.  Nearest HF is 3 1/2 hours away.

I've also noticed that HF has done away with "freebies" and now offering "cheapies."  Their offerings now are a dollar or less and not free.

22 hours ago, p_toad said:

pencil, small square

perhaps a combination square instead with two heads.   good for centering and squaring and measuring.    

It seems that you need a good flashlight so often. And, I like to have needle nose pliers in addition to channel locks, vice grips, wire cutters, and all the other tools mentioned.  You have a great tool kit there, Keith.  If I wanted a durable tool to last for many years, I would give Kobalt a look and I have no idea about what Home Depot has.  I quit shopping there.  

Since I got a smart phone last year, it's nice always having a flashlight and camera with me.  Now, if it only had a knife blade.  My old case had the perfect spot for an EDC.

Smart phones?  Is there really such a thing?  They seem dumber, but I like to have the option of all the apps/tools at my convenience if I can remember all the icons.  Sometimes, I wish I had a simple flip phone and other times, I am happy to have this ?smartphone?.  I work outside most often and in the summer, rain creeps in without warning.  So, when the sun begins to grow dim, I pull out the phone and check the weather map.  Sometimes, I get my stuff under roof just in time.  And, the flashlight comes in handy.  It's just a miniature computer with lots of switches.  

The other amazing thing is my GPS system will alert me, real time, of delays and if needed, suggest alternate routes to save time.  I have found that very helpful at times.   (I had the GPS way before the smart phone).

 

Go Harbor Freight

Herb

John