Tags:  Combination Ratchet   Socket Wrench Set    Ratchet Handle

Don't throw broken stuff -- and money -- away! Spend a few bucks on some basic tools that will save you hundreds of dollars each year.

Which tools do you need in your fix-it toolbox? I recommend these basics:

* A good quality 8- or 16-ounce curved-claw hammer for installing and removing nails

* An adjustable wrench (6, 8, or 10 inches long) for tightening and loosening bolts

* A set of screwdrivers or a combination screwdriver with assorted tips (standard and Phillips) for tightening and loosening screws

* Adjustable pliers (6, 8, 10, or 12 inches long) for holding or turning things

* A basic multimeter for testing electrical voltage, current, and resistance.

That's about it. For less than $25--including the cost of a small toolbox or tool apron to hold everything--you can have the basic tools you need to fix hundreds of things in your household. Buy at least medium quality. A $3.00 hammer is hardly worth three bucks. A $10.00 hammer may last you many years. Besides, you'll probably save the cost of the tools on your first repair--and you get to keep the tools!

You also can expand your budget to upgrade any of the basic tools covered here. For example, you can invest a couple dollars more to get a better set of screwdrivers or even a power screwdriver with assorted tips. If you want to add on to this basic toolbox to make tasks easier--or to make even more repairs--you can get these:

* Hand or power drill with assorted bits for drilling holes in wood, metal, or plastic

* Wire stripper for cutting and removing the outer wrapper (insulation) from around wires

* Retractable-blade utility knife for cutting softer materials such as plastics

* Measuring tape for measuring the height, width, or depth of various materials

* Hand, hack, or power saw for cutting wood, plastic, or metal (depending on the blade used)

* Set of wrenches (open- and closed-end) with standard (inches) and metric (millimeter) sizes for bolts and nuts

* Socket wrench set with standard (U.S.) and metric sizes using 1/4-, 3/8-, or 1/2-inch ratchet drives for bolts and nuts

* Allen wrench set for tightening and loosening Allen-head screws and bolts

* Files are useful for removing excess metal, plastic, and wood.The news come from http://www.bossgoo.com/