While a list of essential power tools will vary, depending on the person making the list, most DIY-ers will agree that certain tools are necessary for basic home repair and renovation projects. One of the tools that shows up again and again on the list below is a drill, because it seems everyone agrees that a good drill is essential. These days companies are making them more lightweight and easy to maneuver than ever before, while still keeping them powerful, which is good news for you and your home projects.
You’ll find some other great tools on this list as well as a variety of respected brand names. Whether you need a simple cordless screwdriver or want to stock up with a kit full of useful tools, there’s something here for almost every project and budget.
1. Black & Decker LDX120C 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
A drill may be one of the most useful power tools there is, and the Black & Decker LDX120C 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver provides plenty of drilling power with a compact, lightweight delivery that works especially well in small spaces. Weighing in at just over three pounds, its 11 position clutch allows the user to drill holes in all types of materials, including metal, plastic and wood. It also works as a screwdriver.
2. DEWALT DC970K-2 18-Volt Compact Drill/Driver Kit
Another compact drill choice is the DEWALT DC970K-2 18-Volt Compact Drill/Driver Kit. This one weighs a little over five pounds and has a dual speed range of 0-450 and 0-1,500 rpm. Its powerful motor and light weight combine to help users utilize it in small areas over a long time without wearing either the drill or themselves out. It’s good for a variety of projects, including HVAC work and cabinet installation.
3. Makita XPH012 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-Inch Hammer Driver-Drill Kit with One Battery
Tool users will appreciate the three year warranty on the Makita XPH012 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-Inch Hammer Driver-Drill Kit with One Battery (it also comes with a one year warranty on the battery). The drill weighs four pounds and has two speeds to help you accomplish drilling, hammer drilling and driving. Since it can handle all those tasks, it may end up being the main tool you need to finish a job.
4. Dremel 290-01 0.2 Amp 7,200 Stroke Per Minute Engraver
Sometimes you want an engraver to add an aesthetic touch, and other times, you want one for the security of adding your name or a personal logo to an item. For either purpose, you’ll find the Dremel 290-01 0.2 Amp 7,200 Stroke Per Minute Engraver useful. It comes with a letter and number template and can engrave on multiple materials, including glass, plastic, metal, leather or wood. You can vary the control of the strokes.
5. Black & Decker AS6NG Alkaline Cordless Screwdriver
Sometimes a small and precise tool is what you need to find, especially when it’s just right for the job. The Black & Decker AS6NG Alkaline Cordless Screwdriver is one of those kinds of tools. Battery operated, it comes with four AA batteries. A simple forward and reverse switch allows you to move from driving to removing screws, and if you need more control, you can switch it to manual operation.
6. WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft
If you’re in the market for a power tool with multiple general uses, then check out the WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft. It comes with 80 pieces, and is more than just a drill — it will also sand, cut, polish and more. It has a 1.0 amp motor and provides 8,000-30,000 RPM variable speed. It even comes with its own carrying case: a very handy tool kit for anyone doing restoration work.
7. Dremel 7300-N/8 MiniMite 4.8-Volt Cordless Two-Speed Rotary Tool
The Dremel 7300-N/8 MiniMite 4.8-Volt Cordless Two-Speed Rotary Tool is a small and lightweight tool that’s especially useful for very fine types of work such as cleaning and polishing. It has two speeds, a removable battery pack and 4.8 volts of power. It arrives with a Ni-Cd battery and charger along with a variety of accessories including grit sanding bands.
8. DEWALT DCD771C2 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Compact Drill/Driver Kit
One of the nice features of the DEWALT DCD771C2 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Compact Drill/Driver Kit is its ergonomic handle. It’s easy to hold and handle even in tight places. You can use it for various fastening and drilling tasks; it has two speeds (0-450 & 1,500 rpm) and a high performance motor that gives 300 unit watts of power. It weighs in at just 3.6 pounds.
9. The Black & Decker LDX120PK 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Drill and Project Kit
The Black & Decker LDX120PK 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Drill and Project Kit comes with the lightweight and compact drill but also so much more. In its carrying case with a handle, you’ll discover 66 different hand tools including various types and sizes of screw drivers, screwdriver bits, a hammer and an adjustable wrench. The lithium ion battery will hold a charge for up to a year and a half.
10. Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander, 5-Inch
We’ll cap off the list with yet another tool from the popular Black & Decker, the Black & Decker BDERO100 Random Orbit Sander, 5-Inch. Because it’s so compact, you’ll be able to move close to the surface of your project. You’ll also like its random orbital action and its dust sealed switch which will length the life of the tool.
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