I have often watched short video clips of people trying to do simple things and thought, “Can people really be that clueless?” Now that I have a few years under my belt, I understand what my dad meant when he would say, “Be smarter than what you’re working with”. Now, my wife would correct me and tell me that my sentence form is incorrect. It should be, “Be smarter that that with which you are working”. Nope. It just doesn’t sound the same. Sometimes it’s worth ending with a preposition. So in honor of our untrained Gen Zers (or whatever generation we are in) this week I thought I would give some pointers about commonly used tools.

I need to clear up one issue though. Being the “MacGyver” type guy that I am, you may see me using tools in unconventional ways. Why just today, I used a screwdriver as a lever.  Mostly because I was already on the floor under a desk and didn’t want to get up, but also because I knew it would work. The main thing it to know the limits of your tools. I’m not above buying tools at the discount places, but I also realize they may not be top quality and need to be treated that way. So let’s get too it. Here are basic hints for some commonly used tools.

The Adjustable Spanner – It is also called an adjustable wrench or a “crescent wrench”. Crescent made the wrench popular and now has its name associated with the product, much like how tissues are also called Kleenexes.  Tip: Once you have adjusted it to size always face the smaller jaw (the adjustable one) facing the direction of the turn. If the bolt or nut is very tight, use a box end wrench.

Box End/Open End Combination – These wrenches usually come in basic sets like US standard or metric. One end is closed in, the other has an open slot. Tip: Use the box end to break it loose or finish tighten and the slot to turn it when it is freely moving.

Claw Hammer – The claw hammer is a tool used to hammer nails on the blunt side and remove them using lever action on the claw side. They can have wood. Metal or fiberglass handles. Tip: When hammering, hold the hammer as far back on the handle as possible. You get more swing that way. It wouldn’t hurt to practice your aim either. Get and old piece of wood and a handful of nails. Practice until you can hit the nail square on the head with the hammer most of the time. You can even practice removing them. If a nail is sticking out to far for the claw to remove it, place a piece of wood in between the board and the hammer to increase you leverage. 

Ratchet & Sockets – If you do any shade tree car mechanic work, you had better make friends with your socket set. Now this one can be a rabbit hole. You see, one can never have enough sockets. Again, they come in metric and standard. Biggest Tip: Your ratchet is not a hammer. Don’t do it. You’ll thank me later. Keep in mind, “Righty tighty; Lefty loosey”. I guess I shouldn’t leave that without an explanation. Turning to the right normally tightens; turning to the left normally loosens. Oh, and wear a set of mechanic gloves. Your knuckles will be thanking you.

Measuring Tape – The retractable measuring tape is a life saver. Buy a quality one so that you know the markings are correct. Tip: The wider the tape the farther it and reach without falling over. I recommend a 20 feet/ ¾ inch tape for most projects. Always recheck your measurements in several places to be accurate. Remember, measure 3 times, cut once.

Screw Divers – Screw drivers come in many different kinds and sizes. The most common are Philips (+ head) Flat-blade, torx (looks like a star) and one that is gaining in popularity, the square drive. Tips: Find the right kind and the right size. Push down and turn. Remember: “Righty tighty; Lefty loosey”.  In a pinch Flat-blade screwdrivers can be used to pry things open, and even as a chisel. Again, if you are not sure, proceed cautiously.

One last very important tip. Always use proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) what working with tools. These include: Safety glasses or goggles, gloves, hearing protection, proper shoes and a hard hat if required. You can always replace a tool, but spare eyes, ears or fingers aren’t readily available. I hope this helps!