The Most Useful Hand Tools Ever Invented
The ability to make our own tools is one of the biggest factors that separate humans from apes, with some tools almost single-handedly changing the way we live. The real measure of a useful tool is when it can be found in the toolboxes of people who aren’t even in the trades; certain types of tools can be found in households all over the country. The following are some of those great tools that have become part of everyone’s essential tool collection.
Hammer
If you have a hammer and some nails, you can build yourself just about anything, whether it be a cupboard, a table, shelving or a bed. You will need a few other hand tools if you want your creation to look good or fit into where you want it, but unless you want to use a rock to knock those nails in, your hammer is the key. The simple hammer is based on what would have been the earliest designs of a rock tied to a stick, making the hammer a symbol of just how far humans have come with their tools.
Screwdriver
The humble screwdriver has become one of the most commonly used hand tools in the world, both for those in the trades and for regular men and women. The introduction of screws and screwdrivers made it easier to secure things, and as a result out homes are now full of things that have been screwed together. Whether you want to put up a picture or put together a desk, chances are you will need your trusty screwdriver.
Axe
Ever since humans first discovered fire, the need for a wood-chopping tool was evident, and since the birth of the simple axe, humans have never looked back. No other tool can split up a pile of logs anywhere near as easily without a power source, making axes particularly popular for those with fireplaces, or for those who like to go camping regularly.
Saw
The introduction of the saw has done wonders for the look of our homes, as finally we found a way to have everything made exactly to our desired specifications. While power saws have taken over in the realm of big construction, the simple hand saw still plays a vital role in most people’s homes — even if it is only once or twice a year.
Crowbar
The crowbar is one of the handiest tools you can own, as it can help you gently pry something apart, or just straight up demolish unwanted structures. It’s amazing how often leverage is required in a job, and having a short, strong bar will usually play a role in making your task that much easier.
Level
The introduction of the simple level has made it easy for everyone to make sure their work is kept straight, whether it be hanging a picture or putting up a shelf. Nowadays, laser levels have started to become increasingly popular, though many carpenters still rock the old-school level.
Being comfortable with your tools and confident enough to use them can make you far more independent, as well as save you money on having to always call in for hired help. If you don’t have a set of your own tools, it’s well worth starting to put a kit together, as you never know when you may have to use them.