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9 Essential Power Tools for DIY Projects

Here is a list of useful power tools that you can use to tackle just about any DIY project.

*This post is sponsored by The Home Depot and contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Whether you’re putting together furniture or building it or you’re doing some maintenance around your home, there are a few essential power tools that every DIYer should invest in.  These must-have tools are for every skill level.  And let’s face it, as a DIYer can you ever have too many tools.

1.  Drill

The drill is the most frequently used tool around the home and in any workshop.  And for that reason, invest in a good cordless drill with power, multiple speed settings.  I recommend a drill that is compact and lightweight. A good quality drill is the Dewalt 20V Max* Cordless Compact 1/2″ Drill/Driver.  It’s small enough to fit in tight spaces.

2.  Impact Driver

The impact driver, while similar to a drill, it is designed to handle larger projects.  It has the force to drive larger fasteners into the material with ease.  This reduces muscle and wrist fatigue for its user.  It is also smaller, lighter and more compact than the average drill.   The Dewalt 1/4 in. 20-Volt Cordless Impact Driver provides up to 1400 in. lbs. of maximum torque.  It’s 1/4 in. hex chuck accepts 1 in. bit tips for convenient one-handed operation.

3.  Impact Wrench

An impact wrench is a socket wrench power tool that’s designed to deliver high torque output with minimal exertion by the user.  It’s a tool that’s commonly found in a mechanic’s toolbox.  It can be used to loosen lug nuts from a tire with speed and ease.  It’s definitely something to keep in your emergency car kit.   The Dewalt 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2 in. Impact Wrench weighs on 3.4 lbs.  It has three worklights located around the chuck collar designed to eliminate the immediate work surface.

4.  Circular Saw

A circular saw is a versatile tool in that it allows you to cut anything from framing lumber to plywood.

And when purchasing a circular saw I recommend picking up additional saw blades.  Not every saw blade is designed to cut through everything.  Typically the blade that comes with the tools is designed primarily for rough cuts and its cutting life is not very long.

Consider the DIABLO 6-1/2 x 24T Demo Demon Saw Blade and DIABLO 6-1/2 x 60T Ultra Finish Saw Blade for more precision cuts.  Both blades offer higher resistance and longer life.

5.  Multi-Tool

A multi-tool or oscillating power tool is designed to do multiple functions.  It is the quintessential handy man’s tool.  With its vast array of attachments, you can do just about any task from sanding to cutting various types of materials.  The Dewalt Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool comes equipped with Brushless Motor that delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed tools.  My favorite feature is its Quick-Change accessory system.

6.  Reciprocating Saw

If you are remodeling or demoing anything the reciprocating saw is a must.  With the right blade, it is designed to cut through wood and nails with ease.  The Dewalt 20-Volt MAX reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp which allows quick blade change without touching blade or reciprocating shaft.

7.  Angle Grinder

An angle grinder is used to cut tile, stucco, and pavers.  It also can be used to grind metal and sand, polish and sharpen.  It’s one of those tools you don’t realize you need….until you need it. The Dewalt 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion 4-1/2 in./5 in. Grinder comes with a Quick-Change wheel release.

8.  Worklight

Good lighting is so essential when working on something around the house or on the job site.  It allows you to see what your doing keeping you safe.  I recommend a worklight that is battery operated and hands free and can be pointed in any direction.  The Dewalt DCL040 LED light has an output of 110 lumens to illuminate your work area.

Exclusive to the Home Depot,  you can actually buy all of these tools in the DEWALT 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit (8-Tool) with ToughSystem Box combo kit.  This 8 piece tool set contains everything you’ll need to get the job done, big or small.  For just $499 this combo kit comes with an angle grinder, circular saw, drill, impact driver, impact wrench, a multi-tool, reciprocating saw, and worklight.  In addition, it comes with 3 batteries and charger (2- 2Ah and 1 – 4Ah 20-Volt MAX batteries).  That’s everything you need to get started. And if that wasn’t enough, it comes stored in a toolbox, the Dewalt ToughSystem Box.  If you bought each of these tools, the batteries, and the toolbox it would cost over $1000. This is a great value for anyone, whether you’re a newbie to the DIY world or a pro at this game.  This would also make an excellent gift for a new homeowner, birthday or holidays like Mother’s or Father’s Day or Christmas.

9.  Sander

And finally one of the most essential power tools for the DIYer is the sander next to the drill is the sander. It’s essential for refinishing, building furniture and basic carpentry functions.  There are many types of sanders but I recommend the random orbital sander.  In my opinion, it is the best sander for finishing work.  And the DEWALT 20-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless 5 in. Random Orbit Sander will not let you down.  OK I had never experienced as sooth of a surface as I did after using this tool for the 1st time.  This cordless tool does not come with a battery but is you get the DEWALT 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit (8-Tool) with ToughSystem Box  you’re set.

Changing out the sanding paper is quick and easy. It hooks up to the vacuum hose for easy dust collection.  Another favorite feature for me is the variable-speed dial. It provides speed control from 8,000 – 12,000 OPM for a variety of projects and materials.

For more tool reviews and home maintenance project check out these posts:

DEWALT 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer & Small Parts Organizer Tool Review

How to Install a Dimmer Switch

 

Ryobi ONE+ 18V Bolt Cutter Tool Review

 

I acknowledge that The Home Depot is partnering with me to participate in the ProSpective 2018 Campaign. As a part of the Program, I am receiving compensation in the form of products and services, for the purpose of promoting The Home Depot. All expressed opinions and experiences are my own words. My post complies with the Word Of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA) Ethics Code and applicable Federal Trade Commission guidelines.

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5 Comments

  1. I loved the list of these diy power tools. But, i think being a beginner, these could be bit expensive. I would be highly obliged if you can cover the hand tools for beginners for their DIY Projects. Anyway loved the website, amazing post.

  2. Is there a code to use to get the whole kit at $499? When I click on the link it says $899. That’s a big difference.

  3. Hey Timisha,
    Great list with the necessary features.

    IMO: as a beginner, everyone may not need all of the tools you mentioned here. A drill, impact driver, circular saw, and work light are enough to undertake DIY projects. But a dedicated DIYer will surely require all of the devices.

    This guide is helpful, and I am going to share this with my other buddies. They will love it.

  4. Impact wrench is very good to work. Normal wrench’s jaw frequently clogged. Impact wrench is very suitable for the dry project work.

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