The world of hand tools is always growing and developing—from the hammer and chisel that shaped the Egyptian Sphinx to the wrenches that repair your cars. Today, I’m diving into five hand tools that caught my attention this year and can help reshape your projects and improve your overall efficiency.
Crescent 24-Inch High Leverage Bolt Cutters
Crescent’s 24-inch high-leverage compound bolt cutters feature improved double pivot geometry, lowering the required force at the handles while delivering maximum force at the jaws. The grips feature integrated stabilizers that enhance cutting efficiency and safety when bracing the bolt cutters against flat surfaces. Additionally, Crescent’s lightweight design and improved ergonomics help reduce strain and fatigue, especially when making multiple cuts. Cutting larger bolts and chains manually is never easy, so tools that offer some relief are always welcome in my book!
Price: $46.69
DeWalt ToughSeries Construction Jack
At some point, we’ve all needed the proverbial helping hand. The DeWalt ToughSeries construction jack offers just that! It can easily lift up to 340 pounds to a maximum height of 8-3/4 inches with the press of a trigger.
It’s the ideal choice for installing doors and cabinets, aligning drywall, or manipulating larger items if you’re working alone. Considering the price tag, I’d say it’s well worth the money to have a third hand on-demand!
Price: $119
Milwaukee Tool Next-Gen STUD Tape Measure
The Milwaukee Stud Tape Measure has been our team’s fan-favorite for a while now, but Milwaukee has upped the ante! The updated Milwaukee Stud focuses on being the most durable tape measure available and includes their EXO360 technology and an anti-tear coating on the first 6 inches. Both help protect the tape from abrasion when dragged across rough surfaces, like concrete and jagged steel. The reinforced body is impact-resistant, adding to the durability and extending the tape’s overall life.
All next-gen Stud models have up to 14 feet of standout/17 feet of reach, making this tape ideal for taking longer measurements. There are 25 and 35-foot models, 8 and 10-meter metric models, and two with an engineering scale to make reading blueprints and building plans easier than ever.
When durability is key, the Milwaukee Stud is our go-to choice.
Price: $30 – $40
Work IQ Tools IQ Vise System
A reliable vise is one of the most valuable tools in a workshop setting. However, its static nature doesn’t always give you much versatility when positioning your workpiece. The IQ Vise System features a 360-degree multi-position arm designed to work with your needs rather than hinder your abilities. Work iQ expressed this vise’s weight capacity in terms of what the ball and socket joint can support. In this case, they tell us that you can apply up to 130 ft-lbs of torque before it begins to move.
The specialized jaws provide a secure grip on a wide range of materials, making it ideal for countless projects. Use it for holding bikes, chainsaws, sharpening blades, or just about anything else. Additionally, the IQ Connect hands-free accessory system lets you add a work light, magnifying glass, and even a cell phone holder—all of which integrate seamlessly with the vise.
I see this as an excellent option for serious DIYers, hobbyists, and Pros alike!
Price: $280
Arrow Fastener Company MH1 Marker Holster
The Arrow MH1 Marker Holster is a “simple” clip-on holster with a wide mouth that allows you to quickly insert and remove standard markers without needing to look. It’s compatible with most major marker brands, and ultimately replaces the marker cap to prevent drying out and ensures the marker is always ready to go. The universal clip fits most belts, making it a versatile jobsite accessory.
Okay, so it’s not exactly a “hand tool”, but as someone who frequently loses pens and pencils during a project, this one hits close to home.
Price: $20 (5-pack)
