Channellock 430
Basic Hand Tools
Tools Of The Trade are chosen without thinking. Not the fix-it tools, but the “check it out” tools. Not knowing what is broken, I grab a few of the most common hand tools an amateur or professional can use when poking about the mechanical systems of a house or restaurant.
A 4-in-1 screwdriver. I’ve managed not to lose my Craftsman 6-in-1 for over a decade. Although well qualified for free replacement, with a shaft collar which pops out of the handle, I’ve refrained from enjoying Craftsman’s Lifetime Warranty. With occasional replacement of the reversible bits, the screwdriver has gotten me into problems and out of trouble countless times.
Channellock 430 pliers are perfectly sized for tightening compression nuts on a 1 ½” trap under most sinks. It doubles as a hammer. Punches holes through drywall with ease. A digging tool? You bet! Anything that needs squeezing, Channellocks will make quick work of it.
Lastly, a good flashlight. Some years ago this super-bright Surefire was gifted to me. Surefire has since developed brighter LED handlights, but the Executive E2E has proven both indestructible and handy. Small enough to conceal in a pocket, bright enough to expose the issue at hand, in the darkest of crawl spaces.
As the chain-smoking plumber taught me decades ago, I do know need to know what we are doing. “Plumbing” was often the only answer I’d receive. Whenever reprieve was given to hauling his 80 pound toolbox, it was in response to my question, “What do I need to bring?”
* Channellocks * Screwdriver * Flashlight *
Executive Tool Bag
WITH TYPICAL AMERICAN frenzy for planning, annually our offices are inundated with frantic emails from those seeking the perfect Fathers Day gift. “What do we get our Dad / Brother / Uncle? He’s very particular!”
In the course of researching domestic production tools, I’ve developed fondness to a particular few, which I own, use, and recommend. This 
publication’s weekly contribution offers what I consider to be a perfect gift. One that will last decades of normal residential use. Even heavy use and moderate abuse.
Hammer, screwdriver, & pliers. All in a tidy zippered bag. About $100.
Estwing E12S 12oz Straight Claw Hammer with Leather Grip
Klein Tools #32557 Heavy Duty Multi-Bit Screwdriver/Nut Driver
Channellock 430 10-Inch Tongue and Groove Plier
Klein Tools 5139L Top-Grain Leather Zipper Bag
American Toolbox 