These are just the basics. These babies are are the ones you want to have in your toolbox when first starting out with DIY projects. With these basic power tools, you can pretty much tackle any project that will come your way. If you are familiar with DIY and have your arsenal started already, check out the Intermediate Tool page next.
Drill
Milwaukee 2407-22 M12 3/8 Drill Driver Kit
A good drill is a key to making DIY life easier. It’s basically a screwdriver on steriods and gives both power and torque that will drive materials into your desired destinations. While there are many types of drills, a basic driver will get most of your projects taken care of with ease.
Where to buy: Amazon, Home Depot
Circular Saw
SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide
A hand held circular saw (especially one with a laser) is key to getting those straight cuts that many projects require. While battery operated saws are great options, your best financial bet on a starter saw is to buy corded (or electric). These will have plenty of power to cut through most wood densities with ease and precision.
Where to buy: Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot
Sander
BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander
I love my electric orbit sander! Especially for any projects that require resurfacing or lots of elbow grease! The orbital sander requires “velcro” pads that stick on with ease, and take the elbow grease out of sanding. Highly reccomended if you are working with wood surfaced projects.
Where to Buy: Amazon
JigSaw
M18 FUEL D-HANDLE JIGSAW
Jigsaws differ from circular saws because they can get into more hard to reach places, and really tackle those curved cuts! We use the jigsaw almost in every situation where the circular saw can’t reach-think cutting out holes on a cornhole board or odd shaped cuts that require curved, precise edges. These are battery operated and come with several blades options for different material densities.
Where to Buy: Amazon, Home Depot
Brad Nailer
Ryobi P320 Airstrike 18 Volt One+ Lithium Ion Cordless Brad Nailer (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only)
I actually don’t own a brad nailer because we were gifted our nail gun that runs off a compressor-so we skipped this one altogether when building our tool arsenal. But I have read great reviews on this Ryobi Airstrike and its’ capabilites. Brad nailers are perfect for installing board and batten walls, or for simple crown molding projects.
Where to Buy: Amazon, Home Depot