A Father's Day Tool Gift Guide

It’s true — most dads love tools. Whether for a birthday or Father’s Day, a toolbox filled with useful tools is the perfect gift. Plus, unlike that “No. 1 Dad” mug, this is something he’ll actually use. For this list, power-tool accessories and garden tools will not be included. Instead, below you will find a basic tool list divided into sections for the novice DIY dad and the experienced DIY dad so that you can surprise your father with just what he needs.

Novice DIY Dad Tools

A novice DIY dad is handy enough to fix things around the house and build small projects. Most likely, he has a small tool storage area like a closet or part of the garage or basement. He needs a basic set of common, multi-use hand tools, power tools, and accessories. Here are some must-haves for your toolbox gift.

Tip: To save money in the long run, do not purchase the cheapest tools. Power tools should last a lifetime for a non-pro DIYer, as well as most accessories. A “home-owners model” is usually low quality.

Hand Tools
  • 16 oz. smooth-face hammer
  • A set of straight-blade and Phillips-head screwdrivers
  • Self-adjusting groove joint pliers
  • 20-foot plus measuring tape with a 1-inch blade
  • Punch awl
  • Levels: torpedo and 4-foot
  • Utility knife
  • 50-foot extension cord
  • Medium-sized wire cutters
  • Pencil compass
  • Small Allen-wrench set
  • Hand saw (wood handle, 20- or 24-inch blade, cross-cut teeth preferred)
  • Battery-powered stud finder
Power Tools
  • 7 1/4 inch circular saw
  • Cordless drill with charger and bits
  • Sander
Paint Tools
  • 1 inch and 2 1/2 inch sash brushes for all paints
  • 9-inch paint roller and tray
  • 1-inch flex-blade putty knife
  • 10-inch caulking gun
  • Cut bucket
Belt/Organizers
  • Two-pouch adjustable tool belt
  • 5-gallon bucket with canvas tool organizer (approximately 50-plus pockets)

Experienced DIY Dad Tools

Experienced DIY dads can take on anything up to small home additions and remodeling. Fields of interest vary greatly, but this section shows some of the best add-ons for a novice DIY dad, including upgrades. To take it a step further, surprise your dad by giving him his own DIY space, like by installing garage shelving for tool storage.

Hand Tools
  • Bits: Forstner, butterfly, pilot/countersink, hex shank auger
  • Heavy-duty multi-bit screwdriver and nut driver
  • Drum sanders for drill
  • Pop riveter
  • Drywall hammer, pan, and knives
  • Shingle hatchet
  • Masonry tools: chisels, knives, floats, trowels
  • Electrician’s multi-purpose tester
  • 20 oz. (minimum) framing hammer
  • Bar clamps, 6 inches to 4 feet
  • 2- and 4-foot crowbars
  • Pipe flaring tool
  • 1/2 inch drive impact sockets
  • Saw protractor
  • Builder’s transit level
Power Tools
  • Compound miter saw
  • Portable compressor
  • 10-inch bench-top table saw
  • Wet or dry shop vacuum