Hand tool reviews for trades and shop work — sockets, pliers, drivers, and the stuff you reach for every day.
Eight tools from my own reviews that I’d actually hand a new maintenance tech or a serious DIYer, with the job each one won, the honest downside, and who should skip it.
I bought Tsunoda PLC-200GUS thin slip joint pliers for recessed sensor nuts and a Vessel Quick Catcher to replace bit holders that walked off at work. First look, not tested on the job yet.
Granddad’s Proto hammer is retiring, so I picked up an Estwing and a Vaughan, plus a Klein 1005 crimper, two Gerber EABs and a CIVIVI Ki-V. All bought with my own money.
J. KOGU sent me an Anex 72-gear stubby and Kurokin screw removal pliers. I drove screws into oak, pulled a chewed-up screw, and followed up on the Vessel Quick Catcher with Vessel ball bits I bought myself.
Roaring Fire sent me the Pack Mule Mini tool roll to test. Waxed canvas, 5 removable pouches, YKK zips – here’s what fits, what doesn’t, and whether it’s worth it.
The Klein 33809 compact socket set tested as a grab-and-go kit for electricians and mechanics who are tired of dragging the whole box.
Tekton 3/8-inch drive six-point sockets in daily shop use: fit, toughness, and whether this set belongs in a working tool bag.
I carried the Anex 397-D at work: 72-tooth ratchet, almost no back drag, a switch that won’t flip, and a slim nose for electrical boxes.
