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For contractors, tools are much more than a means to an end—they are nothing short of a livelihood. The right tools for contractors are all about performance and reliability, allowing them to be serious about their gear. Contractors are prepared to pay top dollar for the best power tools and hand tools since their income depends on their ability to provide accuracy and efficiency every single working day.
Each trade will have specific tools appropriate to particular demands, but we also found there’s a core set of tools that contractors swear by. Whether you’re new to the pro game or thinking of upgrading your home tool kit, check out the tools that the pros love the most.
1. Metabo HPT Cordless Hammer Drill
A cordless drill/driver is a DIY tool kit essential. However, contractors will often look for something that delivers higher performance and a hammer action for drilling into brick, cinder block, and other hard materials.
A great example is the Metabo HPT 36V Cordless Hammer Drill, which we ranked as the top heavy-duty pick in our comprehensive cordless hammer drills test. Higher battery capacity than 18V and 20V rivals means it should work harder for longer, and with a pair of 2.5 amp hour (Ah) batteries included, there’s no waiting around for charging. The whole set, including the charger, comes in a protective case.
Get the Metabo HPT cordless hammer drill at Amazon for $299.
2. Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool
The best multi-tools pack a bunch of tool box essentials into one compact, easy-to-carry device. However, cheap models can often be disappointing when it comes to durability. The high-quality Leatherman Wingman is a multi-tool that’s built to last. With 14 valuable functions, it offers one-handed opening, is made of rust-resistant stainless steel, and comes with a belt clip and hard-wearing nylon sheath.
Get the Leatherman Wingman multi-tool at Amazon for $69.95.
3. Craftsman 25-Foot Tape Measure
The importance of a good tape measure should not be underestimated. This contractor-grade Craftsman 25-Foot Tape Measure has a number of advantages over cheap alternatives. The hook is triple riveted so it won’t wear loose and cause inaccuracies. The blade is marked in accurate high-visibility 1/16th-inch divisions, and there’s a self-locking feature that’s great for those working alone. The over-molded case is rubber, and it provides a firm grip and a high level of protection from damage.
Get the Craftsman 25-foot tape measure at Amazon for $12.98.
4. DeWalt 20V MAX Oscillating Tool
There are hundreds of power saws, scrapers, and sanders on the market. However, professionals who don’t want to lug a whole bunch of different tools around can get the functionality they need from an oscillating tool. The DeWalt 20V MAX Oscillating Tool was our favorite cordless model in recent tests. It has the brand’s legendary reliability, a maintenance-free three-speed brushless motor, and a quick-change accessory system. Included in the comprehensive kit are a range of blades, a sanding pad, abrasives, a depth gauge, a battery, a charger, and a durable contractor bag.
Get the DeWalt 20V MAX oscillating tool kit at Amazon for $192.05.
5. Channellock Pliers Set
Pliers are arguably the original multi-tool. They can be used to grip, twist, pull, tighten, cut, and bend—and the list goes on. To maximize its versatility, many professionals have more than one pair. The Channellock 5-Piece Pliers Set is an upgrade contractors will often choose when they are looking to purchase the best pliers.
These pliers are made in the USA and are drop-forged from high-carbon steel to give the necessary strength and durability. Teeth have also been laser-hardened to reduce wear, and blue handle coatings provide a comfortable hold.
Get the Channellock pliers set at Amazon for $79.95.
6. Keter Portable Folding Work Table
Contractors who need stability and accuracy will usually invest in some kind of portable workbench. We investigated a number of these in our in-depth work bench test.
There are solutions for a variety of needs. When it comes to heavy-duty dependability, though, we prefer the Keter Portable Folding Work Table. It’s made from durable polypropylene with aluminum legs and folds flat for easy transportation. Although it weighs under 30 pounds, it can support 1,000 pounds. In addition, it includes a pair of useful 12-inch clamps.
Get the Keter portable folding work table at Amazon for $115.69.
7. 3M Virtua Safety Glasses
There is often the danger of flying debris on the jobsite, and you’ll rarely see a skilled contractor without a pair of safety glasses or goggles. The 3M Virtua Safety Glasses are designed for indoor and outdoor use. They are lightweight while meeting the important ANSI Z87 standard for impact protection. The wraparound anti-fog lenses offer extended coverage and protect against harmful UV rays. There’s a removable foam gasket to help keep out dust, and the cord control system can be used to attach corded earplugs or a lanyard.