Hand Tools
What are Hand Tools?
Hand tools are everyday jobsite essentials used to cut, hold, measure, drive, tighten and loosen fasteners and materials. This collection covers wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, hammers, hex keys, snips, utility knives, saws & blades, and complete wrench sets—everything you need to build, repair, and install with confidence.
Shop Hand Tool Categories
- Allen Keys / Hex Keys: L-keys and T-handle styles in common SAE and metric sizes for socket-head cap screws.
- Wrenches: adjustable, combination (open/box), T-handle, and wrench sets for rapid assembly work.
- Pliers: slip-joint, needle-nose, linesman, locking and cutting pliers for gripping, bending and trimming wire or fasteners.
- Screwdrivers & Bit Drivers: precision to heavy-duty drivers for Phillips, Slotted, Torx, Square/Robertson and more.
- Hammers & Mallets: claw and soft-face options for framing, fit-up and general repair.
- Snips & Cutters: straight/offset snips for sheet and light gauge metals.
- Utility Knives: fixed and retractable knives with replacement blades for everyday cutting.
- Saws & Saw Blades: hand saws and replacement blades for wood and metal.
- Crimping Tools: make secure electrical and cable connections with the correct jaw profile for the terminal.
How do I choose the right hand tool?
- Match the fastener interface. Pick the correct drive (PH, SL, Torx, Square, Hex) and size to prevent cam-out and rounding.
- Select the grip & leverage. Longer handles = more torque; comfort grips reduce fatigue for all-day use.
- Pick the head style. Adjustable wrenches for versatility; combination wrenches for speed; T-handle hex for high-torque control.
- Choose cutting capacity. Verify max gauge for snips/knives and use sharp, appropriate blades for the material.
- Go with sets for coverage. Wrench and hex-key sets ensure you have every common SAE/metric size on hand.
Sizing & quick tips
- Hex keys: common SAE 1/16"–3/8"; metric 1.5–10 mm cover most socket-head screws.
- Combination wrenches: 1/4"–1" (SAE) and 6–24 mm (metric) are typical kit ranges.
- Drivers: most fasteners use Phillips #1–#3, Slotted 3–8 mm, Torx T10–T40, Square #1–#3.
Care, safety & longevity
- Wear eye and hand protection when cutting, striking or prying.
- Use the right tool for the job—don’t substitute pliers for a wrench or a screwdriver for a pry bar.
- Keep cutting edges sharp; replace utility blades and worn snip jaws promptly.
- Wipe tools clean and store dry to prevent corrosion; keep sets organized for fast size selection.
Hand Tools FAQ
Combination wrenches (open/box) are faster and fit tighter; adjustable wrenches add versatility for mixed sizes or quick field work.
T-handle hex keys provide the best leverage and control; L-keys are compact for tight spaces and kit coverage.
Match the exact drive and size, seat the bit fully, keep the tool in line with the fastener, and apply steady pressure.
Use straight snips for straight cuts and offset snips to keep your hand above the work on longer or curved cuts. Check the max gauge rating.
As soon as you feel drag or tearing, fresh blades are safer, cleaner, and reduce hand fatigue.