+1 for Klein. Klein, Xcellite, and Wiha are my preferred handtool vendors, athough I still favor Craftsman for hammers, wrenches, and socket sets.

For me the 4lb puts fingers too near too much moving mass & what ever was laying next to what I was going to hit. If I'm using anything heavier than a claw hammer, it's for demolition.

Another fine accessory for the toilet auger is a pair of long think rubber gloves. The black septic goop that the auger churns up has a persistent stinkiness to it.

Everyday and emergency use. Must have.
(Forgive me if I missed it.)
Plumbing, electrical, auto, the grille at 3:00AM......
Plenty of situations where you can't do any of the above efficiently without.....

A small flashlight you can hold in your teeth.
Absolutely essential.

Welcome to the fire sok!

Welcome Newguy!!!

Welcome Newguy!!!

Am I the only person who thinks Craftsman tools are inexcusable junk? I can't help but think that anyone who thinks a Craftsman ratchet or sockets are good quality has never used ANYTHING better than Craftsman or the cheapest Dollar Store garbage. Try an SK, Mac, or Snap-on just one time, and you'll realize what a con job Sears has done on us.

I think 30 years ago, Craftsman was moderate quality, at best. It was good enough for general use. I think we are nostalgic for those days, without realizing Sears gave up on quality long ago. Today, the stuff just plain breaks, and is downright unpleasant to use until that (inevitable) time.

"You can get a free replacement any time, with no hassles!", people say. So what? I have a box of Craftsman garbage waiting for me to make a trip to the store. I guess I'm not too motivated because the best I can expect is more of the same junk in exchange.

News flash: This is "Equipped to SURVIVE". How many survival scenarios involve a trek to the nearest Sears store to replace your tools that you were trying to save your life with?

I have Craftsman ratchets that have seen the lightest of use that are completely stripped. Sockets that are split wide open. Even when their sockets are new, they fit so sloppily that they round the hexes off bolts. The screwdrivers are embarrassing. Soft metal, with really bad grinds. Someone mentioned a big Craftsman screwdriver as being a real useful tool. I've got one of those in my box, with the end broken off, along with a bunch of smaller ones in the same condition, and Phillips that no longer look like Phillips. How do you destroy a Phillips tip, other than by using it on screws? Not exactly punishing use.

I feel better now.

FWIW,

David

As far as Klein tools go they are some wonderful tools. I work in construction as an Ironworker/Rigger/Welder/Fitter and a lot of my tools are made by Klein and I know most of the electricians only use Klein tools. I am about to find out how good their warranty is on one of my tools soon. I broke one of their 7/8 diam. round connecting bars the other day. I have replaced it woth an OTC bar since in case they deny it but as i was not abusing it and i was using it by hand they should replace it.