I can't live without wire cutters, the larger kind. I think they might also be called 'diagonals'. And a 4' metal ruler and a 24" level.

The warranties on the batteries of cordless stuff really is a joke. By the time you need them, they don't make them anymore. Just get a cheap cordless drill/driver and toss it when it dies. Then get another cheap one. I just broke down and bought an 18v cordless Skil drill/driver for $29. It's about a dollar more than the cost of a battery for the old 12v.

Most of my tools last a long time... until my brother uses them. He destroys the power tools and loses the hand tools in the dirt or weeds. I find them months later, a lump of rust. So, if someone wants to borrow your tools, collect a cash deposit of the price of the tool. THAT tends to discourage them!

Sue