If you're just starting to fill your toolbox, you'll need a few essentials. Buy the best tools you can afford--you'll save money in the long run. The toolbox itself is important. If you're on a budget, a sturdy plastic model (figure A) with a removable tray should be adequate. Get a home-repair manual (figure B) to have on hand. Be sure to get some good safety glasses (figure C). A good 16-ounce claw hammer (figure D) comes in handy for lots of projects. Claw hammers are also available in 13-ounce sizes. An awl (figure E) is great for starting pilot holes. You'll need at least three sizes of Phillips-head and two sizes of flat-head screwdrivers. Make sure the handles of the screwdrivers are comfortable before you buy. Slip-joint pliers (figure F) are great for giving you extra gripping power. You should also get a pair of needle-nose pliers (figure G), which include a wire cutter. Tongue-and-groove pliers (figure H) offer even more gripping power than standard slip-joint pliers. A medium-size adjustable wrench (figure I) will help you loosen bolts. The width of the jaws can be adjusted with a thumbscrew. A breakaway utility knife (figure J) is a great starter knife. When the point gets dull, snap off a section to get a new point. A torpedo level (figure K) will help you keep things straight. It's small, but it can be used for lots of projects. Be sure to include a 16' retractable tape measure. Get one that locks the tape in place. You'll also need a handsaw. A cross-cut ripping saw (figure L), whose teeth face straight up and down, works well for a variety of projects. When you're ready to move up to power tools, consider a cordless drill. They're extremely handy and convenient.
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