Quality tools are the lifeblood of any serious tradesperson, which is why choosing the right equipment shouldn’t be a decision made without any research. To help you make the right choice here are 5 tips for choosing quality trade tools:
Look for brands with a long history
One of the easiest ways to make sure you are looking in the right place is to find brands that have a good reputation and a long history in the market. The trade tool industry is extremely competitive, which means that if a brand has managed to consistently sustain a good reputation for decades it is most likely made of the right stuff. Some excellent tools with a long history to look into are Bahco, Draper and CK Tools, which have all been around for more than a century.
Research the right tool for the specific use case you need it for
A drill might seem like just a drill until you try to push through a serious piece of granite. There are many different types of tools out there depending on what material you are working with. Drill/drivers might be better for plastic or wood, while hammer drills are better for concrete or masonry. This is why, if you want to choose a quality trade tool, it is important to research tools based on the specific use cases you are hoping to use them for.
Similarly, even amongst the best brands out there, some might manufacture superior tools than others for specific jobs. For example, Hakko might make some of the best soldering tools on the market, while Jokari is a leader in wire and cable tools.
Make sure your tool is built to be ergonomic
Practical considerations such as tool durability and suitability are usually at the forefront of your mind as a buyer, however, if you are looking for truly high-quality trade tools you should also consider their ergonomic properties. A tool that is built to be ergonomic uses clever design to reduce the chances of work-related injuries caused by frequent use of the same equipment. Wera and Bahco are both quality brands that have invested heavily in creating tools that reduce musculoskeletal strain and are comfortable to use.
Find tools made from the right materials
While iron, copper or even plastic might work well for some tools, others might require steel or high-quality rubber to withstand repetitive use. Some materials hold up better under strain while others are better suited to high temperatures or conducting electricity. That’s why its important to do your research and choose the right materials for the job. A good place to start might be to ask the people in your profession what materials they have used in the past and what works well for them.
Only buy tools that have a warranty
Even the best, highest quality tools are likely to break or become worn down by years of repetitive use. That’s why finding tools that have a long warranty from the manufacturer is often a good sign that the brand has faith in the product and that they’ve been rigorously tested for durability.
