I've been a carpenter for 40-plus years, but the carpenter tools I use daily haven't changed much from day one. Here's a look at my go-to tools.
I still drive a few nails today, but mainly I use my hammer with a chisel or nail set. A hammer can also be a demolition tool or for making adjustments that take more force than a bare hand can provide. I choose a curved claw model with a steel handle. The size depends on the task, but a 16 oz. Estwing is a good multipurpose hammer.
A tape measure is my most used tool. They come in lots of widths and lengths but 25 ft. long and one inch wide works for most jobs. I like the standard slide lock. Don’t be tempted to go cheap — a rigid blade and reliable spring are important. A basic tape measure will show 16-in. centers plus feet and inches down to a 1/16th inch. More information than that can just be confusing. This Stanley tape measure is a solid option.
I own chisels from 1/4 to 1-1/4 wide but I carry one 3/4 wide every day, such as this Stanley chisel. A chisel is a cutting tool, but at times I’ve used mine as a pry bar, putty knife and paint can opener. I buy middle-of-the-road quality but make sure it has a metal cap for when you need to hit it with a hammer.
This IRWIN combination square is a multipurpose tool. It marks the most common cuts, square and 45 degrees. But since it’s adjustable I also use mine as a marking and depth gauge; I always check that a saw is set up to cut square. They come in several sizes but I use one that’s small enough to fit in my nail apron.
I still like a utility knife with a retracting blade, not the folding ones. I think simpler is better, so skip the quick-change models. I use my knife for cutting drywall, floorpaper and plastic, shaving wood and pencil sharpening. Always buy high-quality replacement blades. By the way, it’s also my go-to for splinter removal.
