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Need some "entry level" DIY tools - where is a good place to get them from?

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Comments

  • Got some spanner questions :)

    What sizes are considered small and a large for adjustable spanners?

    It is best to have a small and a large one, or will just one "medium" one be OK?
  • Again, it depends very much on what you're doing. For most DIY jobs then a medium is OK. If you're doing a lot of plumbing then one small and one large is probably a better bet - and there are several other tools that are pretty much "plumbing-specific" that will be useful in this case.

    Having said that, adjustable spanners are useful as a standby, but you'll always get a much better grip with a correctly-sized open-ended or ring spanner. I'll always use a ring spanner in preference, and only resort to the adjustable if it's an odd-sized nut that my spanner won't fit. Adjustables are also more bulky than an ordinary spanner, which is often a problem when working on car engines or other confined spaces.

    So yes, an adjustable is a worthwhile addition to a toolbox, but a decent set of ordinary spanners would, I suggest, be a better investment.
  • skylight
    skylight Posts: 10,720 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Combo Breaker Home Insurance Hacker!
    Can I ask for opinions please? Basically, I am newly single and the ex has removed every tool in the house when leaving so I need to get the very basics. Looking at Screwfix mentioned here, I came across this:http://www.screwfix.com/prods/99830/Hand-Tools/Tool-Storage/Tool-Bags/Forge-Steel-Tool-Kit-26-Pieces?cm_re=SEARCHPROMO-_-TOOLKIT-_-99830

    I understand that for the price, its not going to be great, but I have no idea on brands etc., just need something cheap I can use occassionally. I will need to get a drill and bits eventually too.

    I am just trying to think of what I will ever need for what I will do (shelves up/plugs/minor repairs on fence I need to do ASAP). I guess I need to add nails and a mix of screws to the list too.

    What do you think on the above link basic tool kit??
  • wallbash
    wallbash Posts: 17,775 Forumite
    As a basic kit , its not bad,
    The hex keys are not a great buy , can see that sitting unused, but yes to the rest.
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