Neil, I'm 82 now (Yesterday) and I still find myself looking for new tools, just in case I might need it one day. Thanks for your videos, I look forward to each one as it's posted. Merry Christmas, Rich Gesell
I'm glad to hear I'm not the only guy that would go to the Sears tool area and daydream. When Sears closed, I felt like I'd lost a good friend. 67 yrs old, while I don't have nearly the collection you do, my standing Craftsman tool box (blue) has the first tools I purchased when I was in high school - fiberglass hammer, set of craftsman sockets and wrenches. I love tools 😅 Thanks for the video and Merry Christmas.
Norman Kelly is credited with buying the first snap on tool in 1920, a slotted screwdriver. At the time of his passing in 2004, he only had 3 weekly payments left before it would have been paid off
So funny and for many also true. I know mechanics that have spent more on their snap on box, then I did on my first new car . I paid the car off in 4 years, they'll be paying on that box till they retire.
"Without tools, I don't know what I'd be doing with my life." Now there's a quote that struck to the core. And on the flip side, there's nothing that compares with using those tools to help someone without the means. Great video Neil! 🤠❤️
I’m an 80 year old gal now and as a child I’d go with my dad to sears and we’d hang out in the tool department . I learned so much and now have great memories. When he passed and we had to go through all the tools I insisted my brother take the sum of them, I , of course, have my favorites still. You remind me of this wonderful time of my life. You’re like a kid in a tool candy store . Born & raised in Knox, Indiana ✌️❤️
I loved watching my dad work in the garage. He would tell me what he was doing and what the names of tools were. I miss those moments with him. He lived to be 90 and I helped take care of him till he passed. Great memories ♥️
The biggest tool you have is your building! What a luxury to have all that space to use your tools in. As a school teacher, I had a small basement workshop that I used for home repair projects. After 33 years of teaching, I built my retirement shop. I rented the space. I couldn’t afford the land and the cost of a building. At one point, my shop was 24 feet wide and 48 feet long. And it was full to the rafters. But the rent increased and I’m now 76 years old. Time to move back into the garage. Two years ago I sold almost everything and got it down just to the basics. Almost broke my heart. But I still have a table saw on a sliding compound miter saw. Had a really good drill. Press and all the hand tools that I need. I’m a big fan of the Ryobi battery operated tools from Home Depot. I use the batteries for variety of outdoor tools, weedeaters chainsaws lawn mowers that kind of tool. Today I do mostly crafting projects lots of work with epoxy resinand my CNC machine. I would love to be able to weld, but I have a Pacemaker and that’s too much electricity for my heart. Congratulations on your shop! I always enjoy your videos. Merry Christmas and happy new year!!
Neil, I was with you on never too many tools. At least till 7 years ago. My Dad was a carpenter and DIY guy. He had tools for everything. I followed his lead; I have tools for everything. 7 years ago my Pop passed away. My sister and her hubby weren't interested in any of the tools. Most of the tools had sentimental value so I had to keep them. I NOW HAVE TOO MANY TOOLS! Rolling boxes of tools. Grab and go boxes of tools. Buckets of frequently used tool sets. Tool sets for my shed and garage. Totes of inherited tools. Antique tools that fascinate me. My boys are stocked with tools. Friends want to borrow tools, and I tell them they can borrow them as long as they don't bring them back. They think I'm joking and bring them back with new screwdriver bits or replacements for stuff that looks worn. They break a drill bit and buy me a new set of drills. I HAVE BUCKETS OF RANDOM DRILL BITS!!!! Then there are Stanley and Millers Falls planes. I can't walk past an old wood plane and not buy and refurb it. They all work and I love using them. Yes the wood planes are my fault, but they are so darned cool! Well I've ranted enough. You and your family have a safe and happy holiday season. Thanks for all your time and work on the channel. P.S. Please don't show the Milwaukee stuff anymore. I have too many already and I get twitchy when I see stuff I don't need!!!!!
Was happy to hear you include women! A few years ago at 70 years of age I bought myself a rolling counter height tool box from Home Depot. Have always wanted one and I love it! Being female has not hindered a love for tools. Organization and accomplishment is fulfilling.
I’ve hung cord reels and hose reels from the ceiling and the one mistake I made when putting them up, was not unwinding all the hose or cord when hoisting them up to bolt them to the ceiling. They are soo much lighter with all the weight on the ground.
Not having power cords laying on the shop floor is the cat's meow! My first wrench set was a Craftsman set that came with the. grey box and red tray. The basic SAE socket and combination set. It was given to me by my parents on my 18th birthday. I am pretty sure I still have 90% of the set and the box/tray. You can never go wrong buying tools.
Didn’t think I’d be tearing up in one of your videos but the closing comments about tools being the way you achieve you purpose really hit hard. Thanks.
My dad just passed away and my mom asked me to clean out his workshop but it’s too sad to do right now because every tool in there reminds me of him and usually there is a good story behind every tool. I remember him telling how he got each one and how he saved up to buy the big items for when he retired. His plan was to make new kitchen cabinets for my mom but he never had the chance. Hey great video Neil. I’m a huge tool guy myself!
I would bet $1.00 dollar tomorrow will be the year in review. For me this is one solid year following your channel. It has been a bright spot in my life.
Ceiling mounted cord reels have gotta be the most handy tools in the garage. I picked one up from Costco on day probably 10 years ago now and i gets used for everything. Having to coil up cords after completing work sucks - with the cord reel a yank and it's put away and ready to go for next time - oh and no knots to try and untangle either!
I am going to show this to my wife. She is always saying, why are you buying another tool. I tell her that I need it for what I'm doing. I usually don't tell her that I already have 2 of the same thing. I've been collecting hand and power told since I was in my teens as well. I still have a Kmart electric hand plane that my dad got for me when I was in shop class a long time ago. I'm 75 now and figure that if I don't die on the next 3 or 4 years, I'll have to buy another big toolbox because my big Craftsman like yours is getting pretty darn full. Thanks for the video and Merry Christmas to you and all your family. Stay safe.
My wife makes quilts, she was telling me she needed an ironing board that was more stable. I got a Yukon rolling work bench tool cabinet white in color from Harbor Freight & attached a bigger board, then she put the material on for the ironing board. She has great tool storage and a stable ironing board. Great video.
I grew up on a small dairy farm. I loved working with my dad on our machinery as a small boy. Dad always told me two things about buying tools and caring for them. He told me to always buy the best quality tool that I could afford. And secondly to clean the tools and put them back where I found them when the job was done. Neil, much of your commentary could have come from my dad. Thank you.
I have 3 children (twin girls also) and every year Santa has brought them a tool since they were very little. Was the hardest thing about going out on my own - every project required not only the purchase of the project - but the tools to complete. I’ve been excited to help grow all my children’s tool collections before they need them. When they were young we would play “name that tool” - the girls always enjoyed. As they got older and I had to put something together I would grab one of them - and their tools - and we would do together. It’s been a great experience - now they are 15 and 14/14 and I am starting to run out of things to buy :) haha. This year Santa is bringing a nice Allen key set for them to add to the collection. When they are not looking I sometimes use their tools because they are all brand new and I know where they are. Merry Christmas!
Not sure, but I think its primary function was to get the mounting bracket below the large ceiling ribs, but the cord management was a happy ancillary benefit. 👍
This is the very first comment I have left on TH-cam, but my wife’s comment is worthy of being my first. Just started watching the video and you proposed the question, Can you have to many tools? Her comment was, That’s like asking a woman if she can have to many dresses!!! Love it, and it’s true!
I AM the tool person in my house. Not my husband. But he will buy me whatever it takes for me to be enabled to do anything. Everything. My dad taught me to FOB walk to start a tool box. When he passed I got some of his and my grandpa’s tools. I feel like you when I am in a big box, Lowe’s Home Depot…..but Sears was my first love. Remember women can be “tool guys” too. I’d rather be in the garage, than in the kitchen. Oh,and my father in law passed some along as well.
I recessed my refrigerator into the garage wall to open up some room in my 1 butt kitchen. I couldn't afford to build new cabinets so I bought a rolling red tool cabinet with a butcherblock top. It fit perfectly and houses all my sharp knives, baking pans, Pyrex casserole pans, dish towels, parchment paper and foil, mixers, blenders, and more microwave, coffee bar on top! I love it as does everyone who visits.
My first tool is a small Plumb claw hammer. My Grandfather gave it to me when I was 3 years old, yes I said 3. He was a carpenter by trade and really wanted his Grandson to learn to use tools. Still have it today, actually it is kept in his carpenters tool box full of his hand tools which he passed down to me. I remember his motto that he would say, " If you find a good tool that you like, buy 3 of it.. one for work, one for home, and one for a spare. Guess this exposure at an early age paid off/ rubbed off. I am a self confessed tool junkie. So my answer is No you can never have enough tools. My wife may disagree, but thankfully she tolerates my addiction. (Thank you Honey, Love You). I make a living with my tools all day at work, I upkeep our house and property, maintain our vehicles and equipment with the tools, and also find peace and relaxation with my tools, through wood working, wood carving, metal art etc. So thanks Pop Pop for getting tools in my hands early.
The Masterforce brand of tools at Menards are a great value and have a lifetime warranty. From hand tools to power tools, there is a huge variety perfect for the average DIY homeowner.
oh man. I know I can relate! This was great Neil! Thanks for your view on tools and your shop. Great first tool box! My sister got me that for christmas many years ago! Its so cool to share these memories and the story.
You''re absolutely correct. You'd be angry because you need a 2x8! Ha Ha, I have that exact cord reel, ask me how I know! The mounting plate is way overbuilt for a cord reel. It's not like a rope climb in gym class!
You actually got a little emotional talking about who you are with yo tools, that great! My first good set of tools were given to me by my aunt when my uncle passed. His name was engraved on some of them which makes me think of him every time I use them. My wife got me my favorite shirt which says….I ENJOY A ROMANTIC WALK THROUGH THE HARDWARE STORE. I get comments when I wear it! Keep on wrenching!
Same here Neil. I'm 71 and have a few of my first tools and a wide collection of the tools I used all my life to support myself as a carpenter. I would be lost without tools. Cheers 🇨🇦
My wife's grandfather was an engineer at Snap On in the '40s and 50s. He invented a locking mechanism for the socket and other items. I inherited his ancient socket and wrench set.
Craftsman tools was the go to in the 80’s for me. Sears credit card was my first card to have. Thanks to my friends mom who worked in the credit dept at Sears. I had 0 credit and I am still happy to this day that lady got me going on my credit for life….
Neil, that was a fantastic tutorial on Man’s Attachment to Tools. It mirrors mine relatively well. I too started acquiring tools as a teen. I too still have most of those tools. I too have resolved to never again acquire a piece of junk tool. I too struggle with having them organized in a way which is both convenient to find and convenient to store. I realized relatively recently that each person has a different set of triggers for what logically goes where. My son-in-law has a chest type tool box. It is nearly full. However, each drawer is totally organized. But, none are labeled. That is not a problem for him. He knows what’s in every drawer. But for me… I spend more time opening and closing drawers to find and return the tools, than using them. In my shop, I use built in cabinets, tool boxes and peg board. I have three wall cabinets that are customized… one for router bits and attachments, one for Shopsmith accessories and another for hand chisels, marking and sharpening accessories. A set of floor to ceiling cabinets house all of my cases of power tools. My mechanics tools are in two tool cabinets… and on a peg board above my small mechanics workbench. The other tools… they are mounted or hung on 80 linear feet of 4’ wide peg board. It surrounds the top half of my shop. Levels, wood clamps, hand saws, battery power tools, squares, sanding supplies, templates, spray painters… you name it… it’s there. And to my mind, it is organized! But, if I took a video camera and shot a panorama around the walls… only I would make sense of the order. But… to me, that is the beauty of tools… each person has different needs… each person has their own value they place on them and each person always needs one more tool than they have! There is a strong motivation that I don’t think you mentioned… although it was apparent in what you expressed. For me, I find myself buying more tools for the quality of the outcome than for convenience or time saved. You see, I’m at that age where I want to produce items that others will enjoy rather than things I need for myself… and, I want them to be made as flawlessly as my limited skills can accomplish. Having the accuracy, capability or perfection built into the tools goes a long way toward fulfilling that want. But… enough about that… I hope you and your family has a wonderfully enjoyable Christmas!
An awesome book and one of my favorite references is "tools for the end of the world" by James Rawles. He found a great way to break down tools necessary for back country living and running a homestead. I really recommend it to everyone. I am going through it over and over again as I re-organize by shop.
My dad gave me that exact same (small) Craftsman toolbox for Christmas many years ago-I think we’re about the same age Love the videos. You’re become quite a good storyteller!
Pulling open the drawer of just measuring tapes and a laughing at himself was very relatable. Every time I put the tape down I have to buy a new one until I find it a month later.
I agree with all you said. We just had our concrete patio replaced. I was getting out the landscaping tools (shovel, pry bar, etc) to pull up some edging so they could get the equipment in the backyard. I looked at the different shovels I had and realized I had some for over 40 years. I use them every year and take care of them (clean up when finished, keep them out of the weather when not in use, etc.). I remember buying them and I went with the more expensive option at the time - wise decision. I have a collection of plumbing, electrical, framing, landscaping, and mechanical tools. I am almost 70 and when I go I bet someone will pick up some great tools at a bargain. I view the tool as an investment - it the tool is about the same cost of paying someone to do the job then it is a good investment. I have helped out family and friends with their projects using these tools. Key points are buy tools when needed and buy the best you can afford at the time. If you don’t have space to keep larger tools then borrow them or rent them.
Thanks Neil. Great video. I'll never forget my first toolbox and assortment of tools my grandfather put together for me so I could go off to school and get my aviation airframe and powerplant mechanic license. Just like yourself, I added continuously to the collection for 42 years while in the industry. I retired to my 90 acre hobby tree farm in 2019 and use the same collection of tools to work on all the old equipment ( aka functional junk) needed to run the farm.
Received my Craftsman tool box from my wife as my 1st Christmas present from her. After 50 years I am trying to reload that box and to give it to my 13 yer old grandson for his birthday. Hope he get a lot of use out of it and enjoys the sentimental value as well.
The most important tool we often overlook is our brain. I have loved tools every since having a set of plastic toy tools when I was around five years old. I used to pretend to fix things in the house. Now, one of my biggest joys is seeing my son use my tools, appreciate them, and put them back in their proper location. It shows me he has the same respect for them that I do and that makes me very proud. Passing on knowledge to the younger generation, whether it is your own children or someone else's, is so rewarding. Thanks for the tool tour and for your videos. I enjoy them.
Last month I had 2 ultimate man-moments......a situation came up where I needed a 8 inch piece of 2x4. It was the moment I'd been waiting for. Been saving a 8-9" piece in my stock for 3 years.....and then also needed a spring....found one in the coffee can on the work bench. SEE I TOLD YOU I'D NEED THEM ONE DAY!
Your commentary -- is it unscripted? You do a great job with your general pacing, inflection and presumed editing. When I think of all of the fillers (such as "Like", "Uhm", "Ahh", and so forth) that I work (and often fail) to avoid, you present yourself very smoothly and easy to follow. Also, I've never wanted kids, but for how you present your family on the channel, I sure see great aspects of parenting. Your montages have often induced a lump in my throat -- I mean that as a compliment. Thank you for your content and I hope you find the work of your channel as virtuous and enjoyable as we do as the viewer.
Every time I use my tools I'm making a living for myself and my family or saving money by doing things myself. My tools have allowed me to be blessed with a beautiful family and the ability to help others. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
I recently purchased a toolbox at a yard sale identical to your first toolbox. Twenty bucks and it had a great assortment of Craftsman tools including ratchet drive handles and combo wrenches. Yard sales, estate sales, and auctions are great places to buy quality tools.
Neil, I am about your age and I love your take on this. I can see some of the struggle that I have with talking about things that make me who I am. I can see the reflection in your eyes and your face when you try to talk about the fact that tools make you who you are. The deep thoughts and searching for the right words, and it's nice to see that when it comes to that I am not alone. I appreciate that reflection that you could have easily edited out! Merry Christmas to you and your family
I worked in the oilfields in SE New Mexico and West Texas. Roughnecking, had my own welding business. Mechaniced at a GMC, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Datsun, Toyota dealership. Owned numerous automotive related businesses. Always needing tools and more tools. My house payment back then was $250. a month. My tool payments were $300 to $350 a week. This was in the 70's and 80's. I understand the tool needs of a man!!!
Tools are amazing and the gateway to a better way of living, I wish I could post my collection which includes Matco, Snap On, and Craftsman items. I’ve been a dedicated woodworker, builder and teacher in shop setting. I think the greatest pleasure I had was teaching young people how to select and use tools properly and to enjoy collecting them for purpose. Sunday mornings, coffee and watching you is one of the high points of the week!
When I was in college i didn’t have a full set of sockets and needed to borrow a socket from a neighbor who answered no to the request! Since that time I learned to not borrow and buy my own tools. There are very few tools that I own that have only been used once. I have a number of projects that I budget tools that I don’t own into the cost of the project . Most of the tools that I own are for auto and woodworking. If you like working and accomplishing tasks tools are essential. Best and Happy New Yearsa
Neil, I was YouTubing around and the title of this post caught my eye. Because I’m a firm believer in having the right tool for the job… I miss Sears and Roebuck and they’re made in the USA 🇺🇸 Craftsman tools 🧰. If I had a shop the size of yours, I’d be almost as dangerous as you. My one and a half garage is well stocked up to the rafters and it is definitely my happy place. Anyways sir, I enjoyed watching and just subscribed. Nice job on that cord reel hanger. I held my breath while you were hanging the reel 😅👍. Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year. Lou from Miami 🇺🇸
Thanks for subscribing to Neil's channel. He has a lot of great videos in his archives. If you have some time, go back and watch some. (I'm Neil's mom) I'm sure you'll enjoy them. His pond series was very popular, and there's one about an old corvette that's my personal favorite.
Neil, just love watching your stuff. Who would have thought that a simple “tool” video would be so interesting. Realized about 1/4 way through that I am in the same boat. Growing up on a farm, with a dad that was “do it all” I have learned and collected through the years. I’m not near your tool collection, but sure do have a barn full!!! Thanks again and happy New Year.
That's some sound advice right there. I couldn't agree more. Whenever I start a a new project, I always try to budget in for a new tool, just to add to the collection. It's just the cost of doing business.
I purchased Channellock tools when I was an apprentice electrician 47 years ago. I still have/use them to this day. Always pay to buy quality. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
I too can remember being a kid just grazing in the tool section at Sears dreaming of being able to buy tools. I'd look at the Sears catalog every time it came in the mail, flip right to the tool section. It's a sickness!! Merry Christmas!
Hi Neil. Happy Holidays! Your toolboxes are way more organized than mine. I've collected tools since high school, some when working as a mechanic, some for specific jobs around the house and most recently for my own projects and fabrication that I do just because I like it. Good quality hand tools last pretty much forever if they are cared for, even just a little bit. I have some tools that were my grandfather's and are still usable but the things they were meant to be used on are no longer commonly found or there are more modern versions that work better. A 6 foot long, 2-man saw is one example of that. You could fell a tree with it (if you had a strong helper) but it would be a workout!
I got hooked on Milwaukee m-18 tools years ago. My wife thinks it’s an addiction. I’ve got tools from my grandfathers shop that are probably closing in on 100 years old and still function as advertised. Thank you for the video!
My first tool was a hammer my dad picked up in the middle the road. Still use it regularly for over 40 years. I have a lot of road tools that I have acquired over the years.
I remember going to sears with my dad to pick out my first toolbox stack. I also remember being excited when we rounded up our broken and damaged craftsman tools and headed to sears to swap them for new ones for free. That was the biggest appeal for me as a non-pro back then. Now that’s only still a thing with the tool truck brands. Some philosophies I have latched onto about tools. 1. Tool today are consumables, not heirlooms. 2. Each new job deserves a new tool. 3. If you are not sure if a type of tool is going to work out, buy the cheapest version that will do the job. If it works for you, upgrade when it fails or you are able (credit Adam savage). 4. Watch project farm tests if available before picking the brand/model. 5. Don’t be loyal to a brand, they are not loyal to their consumers. 6. Pick up cheap tools/used. There will often be times you need to modify a tool to get a job done. Better to grind down a cheap screwdriver or cut up a junk wrench rather than a costly snap-on or other favored brand tool. 7. Never buy a tool at retail price unless necessary mid job. Tools, like close almost always go on sale multiple times a year. Plan and buy when the price is right.
Some years ago we broke down hundreds of miles away from home. It was major surgery the front end of the van needed serious work. We had to leave the van with the local mechanic fly home and when the work was completed fly back pick up the van and drive it back. When we got it back our usual mechanic asked us to bring it in so he could make sure that the other mechanic had done it right. He hadn’t. Unfortunately the job was only half done! Our mechanic finished it off for free and presented us with 5 sockets and ratchets and two spanners he had removed from the underneath the van that had been left there by the previous mechanic. We had driven that van 300 plus miles and these sockets and socket ratchets and spanners had all stayed in place! We had paid a lot of money for the work that was not completed. So we keep tools. One of them was a snap on socket and ratchet. My only snap on tool.
My shop in New Hampshire had an overhead carousel with power, dust collection vacuum, radio headphone wire, and compressed air. Everything came to me wherever I was working in the shop.
Good morning Neal. Settling in with my Sunday morning coffee and another great episode of Dig Drive DIY. The old craftsman tool box a Sears tool section mention took me back to the 90s. Thank you for doing what you do. Take care, God bless
I walked into the Fort Wayne farm show a few years ago and got all google eyed (not the modern google) at the first booth I saw selling Reelcraft. They even loaned me there 2 wheel cart. I caught the Snap-On virus from my Dad. He was an auto mechanic all his life. He had absolutely no metric when I bought a new 1966 Honda motorcycle. I bought a repossessed 3/8's socket set off the Snap-On truck. 1 ratchet, 2 extensions, and 11 sockets in a tray for $21 dollars. After getting my compact JD I found large combo wrenches and 3/4 sockets and ratchet head at auction. Dad's lower box was Cornwell, middle was Mac or Craftsman, and top is Snap-On. My tools spread all over.
How well I know that feeling. Mine were spread from NY TO AZ to WA nobody back. Now I don't have any more than I can carry . I have a friend all he gets is used junk tooks. By the box load. His grand son n buddies work in his hobby space do he's not too upset as some things wander off.
My first credit card was also a Sears. Most of my tools are Craftsman. I have over 300 different socks, in 3 sizes, from Craftsman, Icon, Tectron and Snapon. I really appreciated this video. I would call myself a tool collector. I have a hammer that is over 100 years old that belonged to my great grandfather. Looking at it you would not know how old it is. I really enjoy you style of presentation. Keep up the good work.
Stumbled across your page while you were doing the pond build videos and been hooked ever since. Really like the variety of your content and can appreciate the time that goes into editing. Also helps that you’re a fellow Hoosier. As long as you keep making videos, I’ll keep watching! Merry Christmas to you and your family! 🎄
I’m 46 years old and decided I needed to up my tool game. First thing I did was buy a bigger tool box/workbench. Now I look for made in USA tools or deals during holidays. My older tools I pass on to others that have little to nothing.
i have 3 tools that are my daily favorites, Milwaukee flashlight with laser rechargeable, my Milwaukee fastback knife, and my mini Vise grips and those can be used as a cutter, hammer, wrench as well.. Thanks for showing us ur set up Neil! You have a lot of nice stuff that you clearly work hard for. Very inspiring!
Hi Neil. Love your videos every week!! But can I say, as a woman, and a DIY, please don’t exclude us by saying, “ a man can never have too many tools”. I’m sure I’m not the only woman who watches 👌And Im sure your daughters are going to grow up to be DIYs!!
My dad was a psychologist never touched a tool a day in his life. Mom dietician. As a kid I loved tools. I enjoy working with my hands far more than my mind.
I had to think about this when both our daughters moved out and needed their own tools. I came to the conclusion that 46 part 1/4" toolset that has driver bits for Torx, Philips, PZ and flat, screwdriver and ratchet handles and sockets 4-13 mm is the toolkit I always have in my car and boat and that I can do most of the stuff with. So maybe Santa will have something like that in a few days. Husch, don't spoil it. edit: I still have parts of the 1/4" kit I bought when I got my first moped some 35+ years ago. edit²: Do You use metric tools much? edit³: Really nice to see the categories You have. I see a lot of same categories like tapes and clamps and got some really good suggestions, thanks.
Although I'm older than you, our tool acquisition paths are very similar. I bought my first Craftsman tool box (top and bottom) full of tools on sale at Sears for $99 for when I was 16. I still have it with most of the tools. I went to work as a car mechanic and slowly added Craftsman tools as I could afford them. Years later as a pro mechanic I started my purchase of some Snapon tools new and bought them when I could used. At 30 I left car repairs behind, went to college and eventually became an Electro-Optics engineer. I kept all my tools and they went home to my shop where I still use them daily. Lately I too have been building up my Milwaukee cordless collection because they do make everything easier. Your cord reel just went on my list.
I say when starting out, buy cheap tools, see if you actually use them. If you do, then upgrade to more expensive, hardwaring tools. No point buying an expensive tool that you never use. Hope you and family have a very merry christmas.
I agree to an extent, however usually if you buy a tool its a tool brand new, its for a job you need to get done! I think thats what he means about buying it straight from the truck. The tools that didnt serve an absolute purpose at the time he said he bought over time second hand. Not all name brand good quality tools have to be expensive. Just my thoughts happy sunday friend!
I had some “cheaper” second hand and craftsman tools in the beginning too. I don’t have a connection to them like I did when I had to fork over more hard earned money for the good ones.
I started off the sears credit card too. lol. As a mechanic by trade I have upgraded quite a bit since then. I use all brands. You can never have enough tools. Better tools= more efficiency, better ergonomics, and makes the job easier.
Love your videos. You seem so grounded and real compare to other influences, younger AND older than you. Plus, you remind me a lot of my dad, which is older than you, and myself. God bless you and your family this holiday season.
I’m 15 in highschool I love tools I started when my grandfather gave me a lawn tractor and I bought a 21 piece harbor freight socket set to do everything I needed to do worked great and then I bought a 24” husky box from Home Depot and quickly filled that up and just acquired more of the same style boxes another similar to my black husky but it was red then two top boxes that were free and filled it all and finally after looking at everyone else’s fancy big boxes and being influenced by my grandfathers 72” snap on box I bought a 56” us general harbor freight box and put all my tools in it and there’s just so much more room I bought the big box for $600 no payments I know it’s nothing fancy but it holds all my tools and some I currently work part time fixing heavy equipment I’ve worked on a lot of random and rare equipment an akerman H10M excavator and a ford 1100 are a few of the gems I’ve gotten a chance to put a wrench too over my few years and would say I’m pretty experienced highly recommend this industry
one thing that is good to keep an eye out for is Plan Drawers, used for storing big sheets of paper, gets you a bunch of nice big shallow drawers for stuff :D
The first thing I did when I got married was buy her some tools. His and Hers Tools. Like you, it was a reasonably decent set of Craftsman stuff with her own tool chest. It was around 3k. Best investment I ever made and kept my tools from walking and never to be seen again. The majority of my stuff was hand me down from my grandfathers. One a merchant marine engineer (great heavy duty tools) and one a lifelong carpenter (have an OG loaded shopsmith!). When my father passed I inherited all his fantastic tools and pneumatic nailers and stuff. I truly am blessed. Merry Christmas All 🎄
When I first started, I figured what a shop would charge, what the part would cost me and justified the cost of a tool to get the job done. Most times saving money. The first time I did a job without having to buy a tool was awesome. I enjoy fixing something that was broken.
Tools give me independence. As a 64 yr old woman who does all the "manly" things in our home, I love my tools. I just moved into a new home and I did all the cabinet holders, curtain rods, car buying, lawn care etc. My husband is a retired prosecutor/lawyer and he handles all the bills & mail. I wish I had your tool setup.
I bought a craftsman toolbox and tool kit when I first started my Automotive technician career 28 years ago. I still have most of the tools and the middle section of that box. I moved on to Snap-on box and tools a few years in but have always had a mix of whatever tools I could afford. Loved going to Sears as a kid just to look at the tools and lawnmowers.
Hi Neil. A very Merry Christmas to you, Kara, Ella, and Eva! And the rest of your extended family. Thank you all for sharing some of your lives and for all of the videos.
Nice collection and tips. Being a professional mechanic, I'd add it's not the amount of tools you own, it's your ability to use them that's most important. I see too many younger guys buy huge tool boxes or huge useless sets of some type of tool but can't perform some basic operations and/or they don't have enough tools to fill a couple drawers in their brand new huge toolbox. Buy what you need and upgrade when you can. Thanks for the content.
Love the story about the sears CC and first tool purchase, I did the same thing at 17, needed tools and a box to hold them to build my hotrod. Merry Christmas Neil and family!
Yes I agree, never too may tools. However I learned a long time ago the difference between making a living using those tools and doing home Handyman projects. It takes some experience and understanding of the project at hand- do I invest in the basic tool, good enough to get through the project? Or spend the extra on the high quality tool that I will use continuously for the next 20-30 years. That is the hard part. I have bought many low cost tools over the years that were able to help me get the job done. But once I understood that for certain tools you need to get a better, not cheaper (I me cheap quality) tools. There is no substitute for that set of wrenches and screwdrivers that feel right in you hand and the hammer that swings just right. But the tool that is used once in 5-6 years, probably can be a lower cost/quality tool. Neil thanks for being so open about what you like, don't like and for putting the time in for these videos. Keep up the good work and Merry Christmas to all!!!
Merry Christmas and Happy and properous New Year to you and your family in America from Norfolk, UK. Be safe, be well, and yes, there's always room for new tools!
Beautiful job and beautiful video! In our later years “purpose” is front and center in many of our thoughts (esp. for those, like me, considering retiring at some point t). But I would suggest that it is not discussed enough with our youth: when our children are in high school, and considering what’s next for them, most discussions are about whether or not to go to college, trade school, what majors to pursue (and towards what careers, etc), getting a job, making $$ etc.. But who remembers to include conversations about what will give these young folks the most purpose over the long haul?? Having raised three children myself I KNOW it’s far from what our teenagers are thinking about at that time. But if no one ever even plans the seed - f no one ever even broach’s the subject- then I think we do them a disservice. Especially for those who may not be well suited for college, but still have so much to offer their communities and the world. I know that wasn’t the gist of your video today, but as I sit here as the sun rise on the left-coast, those are the thoughts your video inspired in me That, and now I need to go clean my garage - especially my numerous tool boxes, chests, shelves, cabinets. (Oy vey - or maybe this long comment is just another form of procrastination lol)
23 year old diesel mechanic, and I have my fair share of Snap-On, Matco, Mac, and Cornwell tools all in an 84" Cornwell toolbox. Luckily I figured out after a few years of making those tool truck payments that that wasn't going to be sustainable and got all of my tool debt paid off. I still buy the occasional tool truck tool, but I pay cash. If I need tools now I go for high quality, good warranty, affordable tools. Those being ICON, Tekton, Lang, Lisle, AST, OTC, etc. I don't have loyalty to one cordless brand either, I primarily have Milwaukee, but I also have some Snap-On 14.4, Makita 12v, Dewalt 20v, and Harbor Freight Hercules 20v.
Using your tools to make new tools is one of life's great joys.
@@WatchWesWork Nice job on that forklift! What a beast 💪
Absolutely! That’s a terrific video topic right there!
Neil, I'm 82 now (Yesterday) and I still find myself looking for new tools, just in case I might need it one day. Thanks for your videos, I look forward to each one as it's posted. Merry Christmas, Rich Gesell
I'm glad to hear I'm not the only guy that would go to the Sears tool area and daydream.
When Sears closed, I felt like I'd lost a good friend.
67 yrs old, while I don't have nearly the collection you do, my standing Craftsman tool box (blue) has the first tools I purchased when I was in high school - fiberglass hammer, set of craftsman sockets and wrenches.
I love tools 😅
Thanks for the video and Merry Christmas.
Norman Kelly is credited with buying the first snap on tool in 1920, a slotted screwdriver. At the time of his passing in 2004, he only had 3 weekly payments left before it would have been paid off
Good one!
So funny and for many also true. I know mechanics that have spent more on their snap on box, then I did on my first new car . I paid the car off in 4 years, they'll be paying on that box till they retire.
his is a harmless jab at the snap on prices...
Oh, that was a literal lol! Fortunately I’ve never had a Snap-On payment.
Truly funny . 😂
"Without tools, I don't know what I'd be doing with my life." Now there's a quote that struck to the core. And on the flip side, there's nothing that compares with using those tools to help someone without the means. Great video Neil! 🤠❤️
Thanks Sam!
I am just not happy in life if I am not helping someone. You sound the same.
I’m an 80 year old gal now and as a child I’d go with my dad to sears and we’d hang out in the tool department . I learned so much and now have great memories. When he passed and we had to go through all the tools I insisted my brother take the sum of them, I , of course, have my favorites still. You remind me of this wonderful time of my life. You’re like a kid in a tool candy store . Born & raised in Knox, Indiana ✌️❤️
I loved watching my dad work in the garage. He would tell me what he was doing and what the names of tools were. I miss those moments with him. He lived to be 90 and I helped take care of him till he passed. Great memories ♥️
The biggest tool you have is your building! What a luxury to have all that space to use your tools in. As a school teacher, I had a small basement workshop that I used for home repair projects. After 33 years of teaching, I built my retirement shop. I rented the space. I couldn’t afford the land and the cost of a building. At one point, my shop was 24 feet wide and 48 feet long. And it was full to the rafters. But the rent increased and I’m now 76 years old. Time to move back into the garage. Two years ago I sold almost everything and got it down just to the basics. Almost broke my heart. But I still have a table saw on a sliding compound miter saw. Had a really good drill. Press and all the hand tools that I need. I’m a big fan of the Ryobi battery operated tools from Home Depot. I use the batteries for variety of outdoor tools, weedeaters chainsaws lawn mowers that kind of tool. Today I do mostly crafting projects lots of work with epoxy resinand my CNC machine. I would love to be able to weld, but I have a Pacemaker and that’s too much electricity for my heart. Congratulations on your shop! I always enjoy your videos. Merry Christmas and happy new year!!
Neil, I was with you on never too many tools. At least till 7 years ago. My Dad was a carpenter and DIY guy. He had tools for everything. I followed his lead; I have tools for everything. 7 years ago my Pop passed away. My sister and her hubby weren't interested in any of the tools. Most of the tools had sentimental value so I had to keep them.
I NOW HAVE TOO MANY TOOLS! Rolling boxes of tools. Grab and go boxes of tools. Buckets of frequently used tool sets. Tool sets for my shed and garage. Totes of inherited tools. Antique tools that fascinate me. My boys are stocked with tools.
Friends want to borrow tools, and I tell them they can borrow them as long as they don't bring them back. They think I'm joking and bring them back with new screwdriver bits or replacements for stuff that looks worn. They break a drill bit and buy me a new set of drills. I HAVE BUCKETS OF RANDOM DRILL BITS!!!!
Then there are Stanley and Millers Falls planes. I can't walk past an old wood plane and not buy and refurb it. They all work and I love using them. Yes the wood planes are my fault, but they are so darned cool!
Well I've ranted enough. You and your family have a safe and happy holiday season. Thanks for all your time and work on the channel.
P.S. Please don't show the Milwaukee stuff anymore. I have too many already and I get twitchy when I see stuff I don't need!!!!!
Same, I inherited my late father-in-law's tools. Some I know I'll never use.
You can now give your kid their tools when they go on to have their families. When you pass they’ll share it amongst themselves.
@@billy2069 My boys have access to all of it. They laugh when I try to give them more tools.
Was happy to hear you include women! A few years ago at 70 years of age I bought myself a rolling counter height tool box from Home Depot. Have always wanted one and I love it! Being female has not hindered a love for tools. Organization and accomplishment is fulfilling.
I’ve hung cord reels and hose reels from the ceiling and the one mistake I made when putting them up, was not unwinding all the hose or cord when hoisting them up to bolt them to the ceiling. They are soo much lighter with all the weight on the ground.
Not having power cords laying on the shop floor is the cat's meow!
My first wrench set was a Craftsman set that came with the. grey box and red tray. The basic SAE socket and combination set. It was given to me by my parents on my 18th birthday. I am pretty sure I still have 90% of the set and the box/tray. You can never go wrong buying tools.
Didn’t think I’d be tearing up in one of your videos but the closing comments about tools being the way you achieve you purpose really hit hard. Thanks.
My dad just passed away and my mom asked me to clean out his workshop but it’s too sad to do right now because every tool in there reminds me of him and usually there is a good story behind every tool. I remember him telling how he got each one and how he saved up to buy the big items for when he retired. His plan was to make new kitchen cabinets for my mom but he never had the chance. Hey great video Neil. I’m a huge tool guy myself!
I would bet $1.00 dollar tomorrow will be the year in review. For me this is
one solid year following your channel. It has been a bright spot in my life.
Well I sure do appreciate it Tim... But I'm not gonna take that bet!
This was great. Also, adding that rocker to the mounted cord was a GREAT idea. I'm going to do the same thing.
Ceiling mounted cord reels have gotta be the most handy tools in the garage. I picked one up from Costco on day probably 10 years ago now and i gets used for everything. Having to coil up cords after completing work sucks - with the cord reel a yank and it's put away and ready to go for next time - oh and no knots to try and untangle either!
I am going to show this to my wife. She is always saying, why are you buying another tool. I tell her that I need it for what I'm doing. I usually don't tell her that I already have 2 of the same thing. I've been collecting hand and power told since I was in my teens as well. I still have a Kmart electric hand plane that my dad got for me when I was in shop class a long time ago. I'm 75 now and figure that if I don't die on the next 3 or 4 years, I'll have to buy another big toolbox because my big Craftsman like yours is getting pretty darn full. Thanks for the video and Merry Christmas to you and all your family. Stay safe.
My wife makes quilts, she was telling me she needed an ironing board that was more stable. I got a Yukon rolling work bench tool cabinet white in color from Harbor Freight & attached a bigger board, then she put the material on for the ironing board. She has great tool storage and a stable ironing board. Great video.
I grew up on a small dairy farm. I loved working with my dad on our machinery as a small boy. Dad always told me two things about buying tools and caring for them. He told me to always buy the best quality tool that I could afford. And secondly to clean the tools and put them back where I found them when the job was done. Neil, much of your commentary could have come from my dad. Thank you.
I have 3 children (twin girls also) and every year Santa has brought them a tool since they were very little. Was the hardest thing about going out on my own - every project required not only the purchase of the project - but the tools to complete. I’ve been excited to help grow all my children’s tool collections before they need them. When they were young we would play “name that tool” - the girls always enjoyed. As they got older and I had to put something together I would grab one of them - and their tools - and we would do together. It’s been a great experience - now they are 15 and 14/14 and I am starting to run out of things to buy :) haha. This year Santa is bringing a nice Allen key set for them to add to the collection. When they are not looking I sometimes use their tools because they are all brand new and I know where they are. Merry Christmas!
The cord management (square tube) was genius.
You beat me to this comment. I thought Neil you are a genius sir.
Not sure, but I think its primary function was to get the mounting bracket below the large ceiling ribs, but the cord management was a happy ancillary benefit. 👍
@jameshalliday412 What do you mean? I planned it all along!
Or you might be exactly right. Guess we’ll never know for sure! 😉
The procurement of tools is the endless pursuit of acquiring the "appropriate tool for the task"
Your Sears story brought back lots of good memories. Have a Merry Christmas!!
This is the very first comment I have left on TH-cam, but my wife’s comment is worthy of being my first.
Just started watching the video and you proposed the question, Can you have to many tools? Her comment was, That’s like asking a woman if she can have to many dresses!!!
Love it, and it’s true!
Ha! Very true and I’m happy to be the recipient of your first comment!
Thanks for watching (and the wife too!)
I AM the tool person in my house. Not my husband. But he will buy me whatever it takes for me to be enabled to do anything. Everything. My dad taught me to FOB walk to start a tool box. When he passed I got some of his and my grandpa’s tools. I feel like you when I am in a big box, Lowe’s Home Depot…..but Sears was my first love. Remember women can be “tool guys” too. I’d rather be in the garage, than in the kitchen. Oh,and my father in law passed some along as well.
Great video... Going to have my wife watch this so she can hear from someone else that YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO MANY TOOLS.
My wife watched this with me, her response was, jewelry is a lot like tools 🙄😬😂
I recessed my refrigerator into the garage wall to open up some room in my 1 butt kitchen. I couldn't afford to build new cabinets so I bought a rolling red tool cabinet with a butcherblock top. It fit perfectly and houses all my sharp knives, baking pans, Pyrex casserole pans, dish towels, parchment paper and foil, mixers, blenders, and more microwave, coffee bar on top! I love it as does everyone who visits.
My first tool is a small Plumb claw hammer. My Grandfather gave it to me when I was 3 years old, yes I said 3. He was a carpenter by trade and really wanted his Grandson to learn to use tools. Still have it today, actually it is kept in his carpenters tool box full of his hand tools which he passed down to me. I remember his motto that he would say, " If you find a good tool that you like, buy 3 of it.. one for work, one for home, and one for a spare. Guess this exposure at an early age paid off/ rubbed off. I am a self confessed tool junkie. So my answer is No you can never have enough tools. My wife may disagree, but thankfully she tolerates my addiction. (Thank you Honey, Love You). I make a living with my tools all day at work, I upkeep our house and property, maintain our vehicles and equipment with the tools, and also find peace and relaxation with my tools, through wood working, wood carving, metal art etc. So thanks Pop Pop for getting tools in my hands early.
The Masterforce brand of tools at Menards are a great value and have a lifetime warranty. From hand tools to power tools, there is a huge variety perfect for the average DIY homeowner.
oh man. I know I can relate! This was great Neil! Thanks for your view on tools and your shop. Great first tool box! My sister got me that for christmas many years ago! Its so cool to share these memories and the story.
It’s nice seeing someone take the time to do a job right. I would have jambed a block of 2x6 up there and been disappointed for the next 20 years
😂😂😂 Tbh I definitely know the feeling
You''re absolutely correct. You'd be angry because you need a 2x8! Ha Ha, I have that exact cord reel, ask me how I know!
The mounting plate is way overbuilt for a cord reel. It's not like a rope climb in gym class!
You actually got a little emotional talking about who you are with yo tools, that great! My first good set of tools were given to me by my aunt when my uncle passed. His name was engraved on some of them which makes me think of him every time I use them. My wife got me my favorite shirt which says….I ENJOY A ROMANTIC WALK THROUGH THE HARDWARE STORE. I get comments when I wear it! Keep on wrenching!
Same here Neil. I'm 71 and have a few of my first tools and a wide collection of the tools I used all my life to support myself as a carpenter. I would be lost without tools. Cheers 🇨🇦
My wife's grandfather was an engineer at Snap On in the '40s and 50s. He invented a locking mechanism for the socket and other items. I inherited his ancient socket and wrench set.
Craftsman tools was the go to in the 80’s for me. Sears credit card was my first card to have. Thanks to my friends mom who worked in the credit dept at Sears. I had 0 credit and I am still happy to this day that lady got me going on my credit for life….
Neil, that was a fantastic tutorial on Man’s Attachment to Tools. It mirrors mine relatively well.
I too started acquiring tools as a teen. I too still have most of those tools. I too have resolved to never again acquire a piece of junk tool. I too struggle with having them organized in a way which is both convenient to find and convenient to store.
I realized relatively recently that each person has a different set of triggers for what logically goes where. My son-in-law has a chest type tool box. It is nearly full. However, each drawer is totally organized. But, none are labeled.
That is not a problem for him. He knows what’s in every drawer. But for me… I spend more time opening and closing drawers to find and return the tools, than using them.
In my shop, I use built in cabinets, tool boxes and peg board. I have three wall cabinets that are customized… one for router bits and attachments, one for Shopsmith accessories and another for hand chisels, marking and sharpening accessories. A set of floor to ceiling cabinets house all of my cases of power tools.
My mechanics tools are in two tool cabinets… and on a peg board above my small mechanics workbench.
The other tools… they are mounted or hung on 80 linear feet of 4’ wide peg board. It surrounds the top half of my shop. Levels, wood clamps, hand saws, battery power tools, squares, sanding supplies, templates, spray painters… you name it… it’s there. And to my mind, it is organized! But, if I took a video camera and shot a panorama around the walls… only I would make sense of the order.
But… to me, that is the beauty of tools… each person has different needs… each person has their own value they place on them and each person always needs one more tool than they have!
There is a strong motivation that I don’t think you mentioned… although it was apparent in what you expressed. For me, I find myself buying more tools for the quality of the outcome than for convenience or time saved.
You see, I’m at that age where I want to produce items that others will enjoy rather than things I need for myself… and, I want them to be made as flawlessly as my limited skills can accomplish. Having the accuracy, capability or perfection built into the tools goes a long way toward fulfilling that want.
But… enough about that… I hope you and your family has a wonderfully enjoyable Christmas!
Shop radio with the cassette player. Nice!!
An awesome book and one of my favorite references is "tools for the end of the world" by James Rawles. He found a great way to break down tools necessary for back country living and running a homestead. I really recommend it to everyone. I am going through it over and over again as I re-organize by shop.
My dad gave me that exact same (small) Craftsman toolbox for Christmas many years ago-I think we’re about the same age
Love the videos. You’re become quite a good storyteller!
Pulling open the drawer of just measuring tapes and a laughing at himself was very relatable. Every time I put the tape down I have to buy a new one until I find it a month later.
I agree with all you said. We just had our concrete patio replaced. I was getting out the landscaping tools (shovel, pry bar, etc) to pull up some edging so they could get the equipment in the backyard. I looked at the different shovels I had and realized I had some for over 40 years. I use them every year and take care of them (clean up when finished, keep them out of the weather when not in use, etc.). I remember buying them and I went with the more expensive option at the time - wise decision. I have a collection of plumbing, electrical, framing, landscaping, and mechanical tools. I am almost 70 and when I go I bet someone will pick up some great tools at a bargain. I view the tool as an investment - it the tool is about the same cost of paying someone to do the job then it is a good investment. I have helped out family and friends with their projects using these tools. Key points are buy tools when needed and buy the best you can afford at the time. If you don’t have space to keep larger tools then borrow them or rent them.
Thanks Neil. Great video. I'll never forget my first toolbox and assortment of tools my grandfather put together for me so I could go off to school and get my aviation airframe and powerplant mechanic license. Just like yourself, I added continuously to the collection for 42 years while in the industry. I retired to my 90 acre hobby tree farm in 2019 and use the same collection of tools to work on all the old equipment ( aka functional junk) needed to run the farm.
Received my Craftsman tool box from my wife as my 1st Christmas present from her. After 50 years I am trying to reload that box and to give it to my 13 yer old grandson for his birthday. Hope he get a lot of use out of it and enjoys the sentimental value as well.
You just made a memory of my Dad come to me when I was 12 years old. Way back from 84. Thank You.
Tool guy and musician here. For your next tool, please find a cover for your Pearl kit! Seeing it uncovered makes me nuts.
The most important tool we often overlook is our brain. I have loved tools every since having a set of plastic toy tools when I was around five years old. I used to pretend to fix things in the house. Now, one of my biggest joys is seeing my son use my tools, appreciate them, and put them back in their proper location. It shows me he has the same respect for them that I do and that makes me very proud. Passing on knowledge to the younger generation, whether it is your own children or someone else's, is so rewarding. Thanks for the tool tour and for your videos. I enjoy them.
Last month I had 2 ultimate man-moments......a situation came up where I needed a 8 inch piece of 2x4. It was the moment I'd been waiting for. Been saving a 8-9" piece in my stock for 3 years.....and then also needed a spring....found one in the coffee can on the work bench. SEE I TOLD YOU I'D NEED THEM ONE DAY!
Your commentary -- is it unscripted? You do a great job with your general pacing, inflection and presumed editing. When I think of all of the fillers (such as "Like", "Uhm", "Ahh", and so forth) that I work (and often fail) to avoid, you present yourself very smoothly and easy to follow.
Also, I've never wanted kids, but for how you present your family on the channel, I sure see great aspects of parenting. Your montages have often induced a lump in my throat -- I mean that as a compliment.
Thank you for your content and I hope you find the work of your channel as virtuous and enjoyable as we do as the viewer.
Every time I use my tools I'm making a living for myself and my family or saving money by doing things myself. My tools have allowed me to be blessed with a beautiful family and the ability to help others. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
I recently purchased a toolbox at a yard sale identical to your first toolbox. Twenty bucks and it had a great assortment of Craftsman tools including ratchet drive handles and combo wrenches. Yard sales, estate sales, and auctions are great places to buy quality tools.
Neil, I am about your age and I love your take on this. I can see some of the struggle that I have with talking about things that make me who I am. I can see the reflection in your eyes and your face when you try to talk about the fact that tools make you who you are. The deep thoughts and searching for the right words, and it's nice to see that when it comes to that I am not alone. I appreciate that reflection that you could have easily edited out! Merry Christmas to you and your family
I worked in the oilfields in SE New Mexico and West Texas. Roughnecking, had my own welding business. Mechaniced at a GMC, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Datsun, Toyota dealership. Owned numerous automotive related businesses. Always needing tools and more tools. My house payment back then was $250. a month. My tool payments were $300 to $350 a week. This was in the 70's and 80's. I understand the tool needs of a man!!!
Only Neil can make going through a toolbox interesting.
Tools are amazing and the gateway to a better way of living, I wish I could post my collection which includes Matco, Snap On, and Craftsman items. I’ve been a dedicated woodworker, builder and teacher in shop setting. I think the greatest pleasure I had was teaching young people how to select and use tools properly and to enjoy collecting them for purpose. Sunday mornings, coffee and watching you is one of the high points of the week!
When I was in college i didn’t have a full set of sockets and needed to borrow a socket from a neighbor who answered no to the request! Since that time I learned to not borrow and buy my own tools. There are very few tools that I own that have only been used once. I have a number of projects that I budget tools that I don’t own into the cost of the project . Most of the tools that I own are for auto and woodworking. If you like working and accomplishing tasks tools are essential. Best and Happy New Yearsa
Neil, I was YouTubing around and the title of this post caught my eye. Because I’m a firm believer in having the right tool for the job… I miss Sears and Roebuck and they’re made in the USA 🇺🇸 Craftsman tools 🧰.
If I had a shop the size of yours, I’d be almost as dangerous as you. My one and a half garage is well stocked up to the rafters and it is definitely my happy place. Anyways sir, I enjoyed watching and just subscribed.
Nice job on that cord reel hanger. I held my breath while you were hanging the reel 😅👍.
Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year.
Lou from Miami 🇺🇸
Thanks for subscribing to Neil's channel. He has a lot of great videos in his archives. If you have some time, go back and watch some. (I'm Neil's mom) I'm sure you'll enjoy them. His pond series was very popular, and there's one about an old corvette that's my personal favorite.
Neil, just love watching your stuff. Who would have thought that a simple “tool” video would be so interesting. Realized about 1/4 way through that I am in the same boat. Growing up on a farm, with a dad that was “do it all” I have learned and collected through the years. I’m not near your tool collection, but sure do have a barn full!!! Thanks again and happy New Year.
That's some sound advice right there. I couldn't agree more. Whenever I start a a new project, I always try to budget in for a new tool, just to add to the collection. It's just the cost of doing business.
I purchased Channellock tools when I was an apprentice electrician 47 years ago. I still have/use them to this day. Always pay to buy quality.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
I too can remember being a kid just grazing in the tool section at Sears dreaming of being able to buy tools. I'd look at the Sears catalog every time it came in the mail, flip right to the tool section. It's a sickness!! Merry Christmas!
Hi Neil. Happy Holidays! Your toolboxes are way more organized than mine. I've collected tools since high school, some when working as a mechanic, some for specific jobs around the house and most recently for my own projects and fabrication that I do just because I like it. Good quality hand tools last pretty much forever if they are cared for, even just a little bit. I have some tools that were my grandfather's and are still usable but the things they were meant to be used on are no longer commonly found or there are more modern versions that work better. A 6 foot long, 2-man saw is one example of that. You could fell a tree with it (if you had a strong helper) but it would be a workout!
I got hooked on Milwaukee m-18 tools years ago. My wife thinks it’s an addiction. I’ve got tools from my grandfathers shop that are probably closing in on 100 years old and still function as advertised. Thank you for the video!
My first tool was a hammer my dad picked up in the middle the road. Still use it regularly for over 40 years. I have a lot of road tools that I have acquired over the years.
I remember going to sears with my dad to pick out my first toolbox stack. I also remember being excited when we rounded up our broken and damaged craftsman tools and headed to sears to swap them for new ones for free. That was the biggest appeal for me as a non-pro back then. Now that’s only still a thing with the tool truck brands.
Some philosophies I have latched onto about tools. 1. Tool today are consumables, not heirlooms. 2. Each new job deserves a new tool. 3. If you are not sure if a type of tool is going to work out, buy the cheapest version that will do the job. If it works for you, upgrade when it fails or you are able (credit Adam savage). 4. Watch project farm tests if available before picking the brand/model. 5. Don’t be loyal to a brand, they are not loyal to their consumers. 6. Pick up cheap tools/used. There will often be times you need to modify a tool to get a job done. Better to grind down a cheap screwdriver or cut up a junk wrench rather than a costly snap-on or other favored brand tool. 7. Never buy a tool at retail price unless necessary mid job. Tools, like close almost always go on sale multiple times a year. Plan and buy when the price is right.
Some years ago we broke down hundreds of miles away from home. It was major surgery the front end of the van needed serious work. We had to leave the van with the local mechanic fly home and when the work was completed fly back pick up the van and drive it back. When we got it back our usual mechanic asked us to bring it in so he could make sure that the other mechanic had done it right. He hadn’t. Unfortunately the job was only half done! Our mechanic finished it off for free and presented us with 5 sockets and ratchets and two spanners he had removed from the underneath the van that had been left there by the previous mechanic. We had driven that van 300 plus miles and these sockets and socket ratchets and spanners had all stayed in place! We had paid a lot of money for the work that was not completed. So we keep tools. One of them was a snap on socket and ratchet. My only snap on tool.
My shop in New Hampshire had an overhead carousel with power, dust collection vacuum, radio headphone wire, and compressed air. Everything came to me wherever I was working in the shop.
Happy Holidays🎄
Wow! Thanks a lot Jim!
Happy Holidays!
Good morning Neal. Settling in with my Sunday morning coffee and another great episode of Dig Drive DIY. The old craftsman tool box a Sears tool section mention took me back to the 90s. Thank you for doing what you do. Take care, God bless
Absolutely! What a great day it was back then to visit the tool department.
I walked into the Fort Wayne farm show a few years ago and got all google eyed (not the modern google) at the first booth I saw selling Reelcraft. They even loaned me there 2 wheel cart. I caught the Snap-On virus from my Dad. He was an auto mechanic all his life. He had absolutely no metric when I bought a new 1966 Honda motorcycle. I bought a repossessed 3/8's socket set off the Snap-On truck. 1 ratchet, 2 extensions, and 11 sockets in a tray for $21 dollars. After getting my compact JD I found large combo wrenches and 3/4 sockets and ratchet head at auction. Dad's lower box was Cornwell, middle was Mac or Craftsman, and top is Snap-On. My tools spread all over.
How well I know that feeling. Mine were spread from NY TO AZ to WA nobody back.
Now I don't have any more than I can carry .
I have a friend all he gets is used junk tooks. By the box load. His grand son n buddies work in his hobby space do he's not too upset as some things wander off.
It’s amazing how the right tools make a job so much easier.
My first credit card was also a Sears. Most of my tools are Craftsman. I have over 300 different socks, in 3 sizes, from Craftsman, Icon, Tectron and Snapon. I really appreciated this video. I would call myself a tool collector. I have a hammer that is over 100 years old that belonged to my great grandfather. Looking at it you would not know how old it is.
I really enjoy you style of presentation. Keep up the good work.
Stumbled across your page while you were doing the pond build videos and been hooked ever since. Really like the variety of your content and can appreciate the time that goes into editing. Also helps that you’re a fellow Hoosier. As long as you keep making videos, I’ll keep watching! Merry Christmas to you and your family! 🎄
Agree, never have to many tools!!! Being one of those people asking for the “TOUR”, I thank you young man, enjoyed watching, great video.
Thanks Terry! I appreciate your viewership and thoughtful comments on here.
I’m 46 years old and decided I needed to up my tool game. First thing I did was buy a bigger tool box/workbench. Now I look for made in USA tools or deals during holidays. My older tools I pass on to others that have little to nothing.
i have 3 tools that are my daily favorites, Milwaukee flashlight with laser rechargeable, my Milwaukee fastback knife, and my mini Vise grips and those can be used as a cutter, hammer, wrench as well.. Thanks for showing us ur set up Neil! You have a lot of nice stuff that you clearly work hard for. Very inspiring!
Hi Neil. Love your videos every week!! But can I say, as a woman, and a DIY, please don’t exclude us by saying, “ a man can never have too many tools”. I’m sure I’m not the only woman who watches 👌And Im sure your daughters are going to grow up to be DIYs!!
My dad was a psychologist never touched a tool a day in his life. Mom dietician. As a kid I loved tools. I enjoy working with my hands far more than my mind.
I had to think about this when both our daughters moved out and needed their own tools. I came to the conclusion that 46 part 1/4" toolset that has driver bits for Torx, Philips, PZ and flat, screwdriver and ratchet handles and sockets 4-13 mm is the toolkit I always have in my car and boat and that I can do most of the stuff with. So maybe Santa will have something like that in a few days. Husch, don't spoil it. edit: I still have parts of the 1/4" kit I bought when I got my first moped some 35+ years ago. edit²: Do You use metric tools much? edit³: Really nice to see the categories You have. I see a lot of same categories like tapes and clamps and got some really good suggestions, thanks.
Although I'm older than you, our tool acquisition paths are very similar. I bought my first Craftsman tool box (top and bottom) full of tools on sale at Sears for $99 for when I was 16. I still have it with most of the tools. I went to work as a car mechanic and slowly added Craftsman tools as I could afford them. Years later as a pro mechanic I started my purchase of some Snapon tools new and bought them when I could used. At 30 I left car repairs behind, went to college and eventually became an Electro-Optics engineer. I kept all my tools and they went home to my shop where I still use them daily. Lately I too have been building up my Milwaukee cordless collection because they do make everything easier. Your cord reel just went on my list.
I say when starting out, buy cheap tools, see if you actually use them. If you do, then upgrade to more expensive, hardwaring tools. No point buying an expensive tool that you never use. Hope you and family have a very merry christmas.
I agree to an extent, however usually if you buy a tool its a tool brand new, its for a job you need to get done! I think thats what he means about buying it straight from the truck. The tools that didnt serve an absolute purpose at the time he said he bought over time second hand. Not all name brand good quality tools have to be expensive. Just my thoughts happy sunday friend!
I had some “cheaper” second hand and craftsman tools in the beginning too. I don’t have a connection to them like I did when I had to fork over more hard earned money for the good ones.
Couldn't have picked a better subject the week before Christmas.
I started off the sears credit card too. lol. As a mechanic by trade I have upgraded quite a bit since then. I use all brands. You can never have enough tools.
Better tools= more efficiency, better ergonomics, and makes the job easier.
Love your videos. You seem so grounded and real compare to other influences, younger AND older than you. Plus, you remind me a lot of my dad, which is older than you, and myself. God bless you and your family this holiday season.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you & yours! I tell my wife, "A man can never have too many tools or guns". She just rolls her eyes!
I’m 15 in highschool I love tools I started when my grandfather gave me a lawn tractor and I bought a 21 piece harbor freight socket set to do everything I needed to do worked great and then I bought a 24” husky box from Home Depot and quickly filled that up and just acquired more of the same style boxes another similar to my black husky but it was red then two top boxes that were free and filled it all and finally after looking at everyone else’s fancy big boxes and being influenced by my grandfathers 72” snap on box I bought a 56” us general harbor freight box and put all my tools in it and there’s just so much more room I bought the big box for $600 no payments I know it’s nothing fancy but it holds all my tools and some I currently work part time fixing heavy equipment I’ve worked on a lot of random and rare equipment an akerman H10M excavator and a ford 1100 are a few of the gems I’ve gotten a chance to put a wrench too over my few years and would say I’m pretty experienced highly recommend this industry
one thing that is good to keep an eye out for is Plan Drawers, used for storing big sheets of paper, gets you a bunch of nice big shallow drawers for stuff :D
The first thing I did when I got married was buy her some tools. His and Hers Tools. Like you, it was a reasonably decent set of Craftsman stuff with her own tool chest. It was around 3k. Best investment I ever made and kept my tools from walking and never to be seen again.
The majority of my stuff was hand me down from my grandfathers. One a merchant marine engineer (great heavy duty tools) and one a lifelong carpenter (have an OG loaded shopsmith!). When my father passed I inherited all his fantastic tools and pneumatic nailers and stuff. I truly am blessed.
Merry Christmas All 🎄
Merry Christmas Neil. Thanks to you and your family for my Sunday mornings. Live long and prosper.
Merry Christmas & have a happy family New Year.
When I first started, I figured what a shop would charge, what the part would cost me and justified the cost of a tool to get the job done. Most times saving money. The first time I did a job without having to buy a tool was awesome. I enjoy fixing something that was broken.
Tools give me independence. As a 64 yr old woman who does all the "manly" things in our home, I love my tools. I just moved into a new home and I did all the cabinet holders, curtain rods, car buying, lawn care etc. My husband is a retired prosecutor/lawyer and he handles all the bills & mail. I wish I had your tool setup.
I bought a craftsman toolbox and tool kit when I first started my Automotive technician career 28 years ago. I still have most of the tools and the middle section of that box. I moved on to Snap-on box and tools a few years in but have always had a mix of whatever tools I could afford. Loved going to Sears as a kid just to look at the tools and lawnmowers.
Hi Neil. A very Merry Christmas to you, Kara, Ella, and Eva! And the rest of your extended family.
Thank you all for sharing some of your lives and for all of the videos.
Nice collection and tips. Being a professional mechanic, I'd add it's not the amount of tools you own, it's your ability to use them that's most important. I see too many younger guys buy huge tool boxes or huge useless sets of some type of tool but can't perform some basic operations and/or they don't have enough tools to fill a couple drawers in their brand new huge toolbox. Buy what you need and upgrade when you can. Thanks for the content.
Love the story about the sears CC and first tool purchase, I did the same thing at 17, needed tools and a box to hold them to build my hotrod. Merry Christmas Neil and family!
Yes I agree, never too may tools. However I learned a long time ago the difference between making a living using those tools and doing home Handyman projects. It takes some experience and understanding of the project at hand- do I invest in the basic tool, good enough to get through the project? Or spend the extra on the high quality tool that I will use continuously for the next 20-30 years. That is the hard part. I have bought many low cost tools over the years that were able to help me get the job done. But once I understood that for certain tools you need to get a better, not cheaper (I me cheap quality) tools. There is no substitute for that set of wrenches and screwdrivers that feel right in you hand and the hammer that swings just right. But the tool that is used once in 5-6 years, probably can be a lower cost/quality tool.
Neil thanks for being so open about what you like, don't like and for putting the time in for these videos. Keep up the good work and Merry Christmas to all!!!
Tools are an outlet and a backup to my corporate gig. I wish they were first, but that is how it goes for me.
Merry Christmas and Happy and properous New Year to you and your family in America from Norfolk, UK. Be safe, be well, and yes, there's always room for new tools!
Beautiful job and beautiful video!
In our later years “purpose” is front and center in many of our thoughts (esp. for those, like me, considering retiring at some point t). But I would suggest that it is not discussed enough with our youth: when our children are in high school, and considering what’s next for them, most discussions are about whether or not to go to college, trade school, what majors to pursue (and towards what careers, etc), getting a job, making $$ etc.. But who remembers to include conversations about what will give these young folks the most purpose over the long haul??
Having raised three children myself I KNOW it’s far from what our teenagers are thinking about at that time. But if no one ever even plans the seed - f no one ever even broach’s the subject- then I think we do them a disservice. Especially for those who may not be well suited for college, but still have so much to offer their communities and the world.
I know that wasn’t the gist of your video today, but as I sit here as the sun rise on the left-coast, those are the thoughts your video inspired in me
That, and now I need to go clean my garage - especially my numerous tool boxes, chests, shelves, cabinets.
(Oy vey - or maybe this long comment is just another form of procrastination lol)
23 year old diesel mechanic, and I have my fair share of Snap-On, Matco, Mac, and Cornwell tools all in an 84" Cornwell toolbox. Luckily I figured out after a few years of making those tool truck payments that that wasn't going to be sustainable and got all of my tool debt paid off. I still buy the occasional tool truck tool, but I pay cash. If I need tools now I go for high quality, good warranty, affordable tools. Those being ICON, Tekton, Lang, Lisle, AST, OTC, etc. I don't have loyalty to one cordless brand either, I primarily have Milwaukee, but I also have some Snap-On 14.4, Makita 12v, Dewalt 20v, and Harbor Freight Hercules 20v.