Best Starter Tools for DIY: 7 I’d Buy First If I Had to Start Over

A real-world starter kit for serious DIYers and first-time homeowners

If I had to start over with nothing, these are the best starter tools for DIY I’d buy first. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or weekend builder, this list gives you a real-world foundation — no fluff.

Why These Are the Best Starter Tools for DIY

1. Cordless Drill/Driver

If I could only buy one power tool, it’d be this. A good cordless drill handles furniture assembly, wood builds, drywall anchors, you name it. It’s your workhorse.

Pro Tip: Get a kit with two batteries — one’s always dead when you need it most.

👉 View My Favorite Drill Under $150

2. 25-Foot Tape Measure

You’ll reach for this more than you think. Measuring a wall, spacing a shelf, cutting a board — it’s nonstop.

Pro Tip: Go with a wide blade and at least a 10’ standout. Magnetic tip = bonus.

👉 See My Go-To Tape Measure

3. 16-Ounce Hammer

Framing, demo, stubborn nails — a classic hammer is still a must. Nothing beats one-piece forged steel for durability and feel.

Pro Tip: Wooden handles look cool but loosen over time. Forged steel stays true.

👉 Check Out My Favorite Hammer

4. Utility Knife

A utility knife isn’t just for cutting boxes — it scores drywall, trims vinyl, scrapes paint, and slices through just about anything.

Pro Tip: Keep spare blades nearby. A sharp knife is safer than a dull one.

👉 Best Utility Knife I’ve Used

5. Speed Square

If you’re cutting wood, framing, or even just marking layouts — you need a speed square. It’s your guide for straight, accurate cuts.

Pro Tip: Combine it with a circular saw and you’ve got a mini miter station.

👉 My Favorite Speed Square

6. 24-Inch Level

From shelves to picture frames to decks — if it’s not level, it looks bad. A 24” level is the perfect mid-size for most jobs.

Pro Tip: Cheap levels warp. Get aluminum or composite for accuracy that lasts.

👉 Grab This Solid Level

7. Adjustable Wrench

Every home should have at least one. Whether you’re fixing a leaky pipe or adjusting a bolt, an adjustable wrench saves the day.

Pro Tip: If the jaws are loose or sloppy — skip it. Precision matters here.

👉 Here’s the One I Use

Wrap-Up: Building Your Starter DIY Tool Kit the Right Way

If you’re starting fresh — or helping someone else build their first kit — these 7 tools cover 80% of the jobs you’ll run into. These really are the best starter tools for DIY — versatile, durable, and ready to help you tackle most home projects.

Want to see the full gear lineup, including pro upgrades and specialty tools?
👉 Check out Tools We Recommend »