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Tool of the Year Awards is an annual tradition of celebrating the most notable new tools and solutions for pros and average Joes. This series spotlights the handiest products launched in the last 12 months across 10 essential categories, ranging from power tools to cleaning tools.
Every year, BobVila.com’s Tool of the Year Awards competition spotlights the best new DIY and pro gear to hit the market. Even in a classic category like hand tools, the 2025 winners prove that innovation and quality craftsmanship are alive and well.
After months of putting dozens of tools through their paces, we were especially impressed by the hand tools that balanced timeless utility with smart, modern updates—reminding us that even the simplest tools can evolve in surprising ways.
From a perfectly organized wrench set to a compact, high-tech laser level, these tools deliver top-notch performance when it matters. Whether you’re tackling DIY projects at home, pruning branches, or heading into the backcountry, you’ll want to take a good look at the following hand tools. They earned their place at the top this category for build quality, design, and ability to get the job done right the first time.
1. Craftsman 20-Piece Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set
At 20 pieces, this quality ratcheting wrench set from Craftsman offers the coverage you need for a wide range of jobs, whether in the shop, garage, or on the go. It includes both SAE and metric sizes, each with a 12-point box and clear stamped markings for quick identification. They have a fully polished chrome finish for corrosion resistance.
Unlike some ratcheting wrenches that use a lever to change directions, the Craftsman wrenches switch simply by flipping them over—one less step between tightening and loosening. These wrenches boast a 4-degree swing arc for working in tight spaces and a smooth ratcheting action, even under pressure.
In addition to this set’s exceptional functionality, its folding storage case holds each wrench securely in place and makes it easy to keep the set organized.
2. Hozo Design M-Cube 02 Green Laser Level Combo
Compact, portable, and smartly designed, the Hozo M-Cube 02 is perfect for making quick, accurate alignments for home and hobby projects. Its sharp green cross-line laser makes it easy to hang picture frames, align shelving, position mirrors, or install light fixtures with precision on the first try—without the trial-and-error of a tape measure and bubble level.
At just 4.5 inches round, it slips easily into a small tool bag or drawer. Meanwhile, its Bluetooth connectivity adds cutting-edge tech, offering layout previews in real time and saving measurements.
While it’s powerful enough for some jobsite tasks, its strength lies in household and design use. Unlike jobsite-grade levels built for construction, the M-Cube prioritizes portability and convenience for everyday needs. We especially like how quickly it helps line up artwork on a wall. This laser level provides a shortcut for getting precise results.
3. Craftsman 25-Foot Compact Easy Grip Tape Measure
Few tools are as indispensable as a trusty tape measure, and Craftsman’s new Easy Grip model fits the bill. This 25-foot measuring tape feels solid in hand and features smooth, controlled blade movement that makes measuring easier.
Its blade extends up to 13 feet without support, which makes measuring long spans so much simpler when working alone. Fraction markings on both sides of the blade, in alternating colors, make reading measurements easy at a glance. Add in a rubber overmold for comfort and impact resistance, and you have a top-notch, go-to measuring tool for projects of all sizes.
4. Woodland Tools Super Duty D-Handle Saw
Designed for serious pruning and log-cutting work, this pull saw is large and strong enough to handle thick branches easily. Its 18-inch high-carbon steel blade is semi-rigid with a slight curve, which helps the teeth maintain contact throughout the stroke for faster, smoother cutting.
During testing, it powered through branches up to 12 inches in diameter—an impressive feat for a hand saw—and the D-handle design offered a secure, comfortable grip even in wet or muddy conditions.
We love how smoothly it slices through limbs. This saw is a powerhouse at a bargain price for those who regularly tackle heavy pruning or log cutting and prefer a hand saw to a power saw.
5. Leatherman Signal Multitool
Made with the outdoorsman in mind, the Leatherman Signal multitool combines 19 essential tools in a compact design that’s now been in use—and beloved—for a decade. But its newest iteration debuted a feature that only enhances the tool’s durability: a Cerakote finish that resists abrasion, corrosion, and weathering.
Field-ready features, such as a ferro rod fire starter, emergency whistle, hammer, and diamond-grit sharpener, make it a perfect EDC for camping and hiking. The ferro rod starter was surprisingly effective in testing. The one-handed-opening knife and the saw blades that come with secure frame locks add to the tool’s usefulness.
The pliers, wire cutters, and bit driver can cover basic repair needs in a pinch when you don’t have access to full-size tools. The Signal shines when portability and preparedness matter most. It’s tough as nails and has all the features a camper or hiker might need.
More Top-Rated Hand Tools
- FOR THE CAMPGROUND CHEF: Compact and tough, the Leatherman Rustle multitool packs everyday essentials into a slim, easy-to-carry design.
- FOR THE SURVIVALIST: Built for versatility, this Leatherman Pioneer multitool gives you pro-grade function in a rugged, pocket-ready package.
- GREAT FOR PRECISE REPAIRS: The Hoto Snapbloq Electric Precision Screwdriver Set delivers quick, accurate bit changes for effortless repairs and projects.
