Tools

Hand tools, hammers, pliers, screwdrivers, nut drivers, flip sockets and mini ratchets, clamps, wire strippers, a circuit breaker finder, bolt cutters, utility knives, multi-tools and measuring tools we've researched, with what each is good at and where it falls short.

20 reviews · 5 buying guides · How we review

Buying guides

Buying guide · Tools
Compact pliers
Serrated or Smooth Jaws? Choosing Compact Pliers for Small Nuts and Pipes
Toothed jaws grip harder but mark surfaces; smooth jaws protect finishes. How to choose compact pliers by jaw type, capacity and the leverage you actually need.
Read the guide
Buying guide · Tools
Compact bolt cutters
Compact Bolt Cutters: What They Cut, Which KNIPEX CoBolt to Pick, and When You Need a Full-Size One
How far a pliers-sized bolt cutter goes, how the CoBolt versions differ (size, head, grips), and when diagonal cutters or a long bolt cutter fit better.
Read the guide
Buying guide · Tools
Leatherman multi-tools
Which Leatherman Multi-Tool Should You Get? Skeletool CX, Rev, Wingman or Wave Plus
How Leatherman's everyday multi-tools differ in tool count, weight and features, and how to pick between a light pocket tool, a mid-size all-rounder and a full-size toolbox.
Read the guide
Buying guide · Tools
Multi-bit screwdrivers
Which Multi-Bit Screwdriver Do You Need? 11-in-1, Tamperproof, Precision or Hollow Nut Drivers
An 11-in-1 covers most screws in a house; security screws, electronics and long bolts each need something else. How to choose by the fasteners you actually meet.
Read the guide
Buying guide · Tools
Hand tool gifts
Hand Tool Gifts: How to Pick One They'll Use, Not One They Already Own
How to choose a hand tool gift by what the person already does: a first toolbox for a new homeowner, a specialty tool for someone who seems to have everything, pocket tools, car work and electronics, plus the mistakes that make a tool gift sit in a drawer.
Read the guide

Reviews