The Top 7 Hand Tools Every Metalworker Needs in Their Toolkit

toolkit hammers ball pein hammer brass hammer rawhide hammer rubber hammer lead hammer figure stamp set stamp set center punch transfer punch l wrenches bondhus socket set magnetizer demagnetizer bold extractors

Hey there, metalworking aficionados! Let’s talk about the crème de la crème of hand tools that you absolutely need in your toolkit. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, these tools will make your life easier and your work more precise. Let's dive in, and I promise to keep it light, fun, and informative!

1. Hammers for Everything

From the gentle tap to the forceful smash, hammers are your best friend. Here’s the lineup:

Ball Pein Hammer: Perfect for making small, repetitive marks.
Brass, Rawhide, Rubber, Soft Face, Lead (don't chew on it, especially in California with Prop 65 laws), or Copper Hammer: For softer blows than a dead blow or claw hammer.
Sledge Hammer: Ready to destroy (or just vent some frustration on the drywall).

These hammers often come with replaceable heads, like the copper, dead blow, rawhide, soft face, and rubber mallets. Handles come in steel, wood, and fiberglass, ranging from 4 oz. to 18 lbs. depending on your job. Thank goodness we’re not swinging an 18 lb. hammer all day - talk about a workout! From brands like Titan, Tekton, Vaughan, Wilton, Cook Hammer, Nupla, and American Striking Tools, KBC has the hammer you need to get the job done.

2. Letter and Figure Stamp Sets

Ever felt the frustration of not having enough letter E's or A's to write your name? Yeah, we get it. That’s why you can buy letter and number stamps individually as well as in sets. Start with a set, and then add the individual stamps you need to spell Mississippi or something else with more letters than come in the base set. These letter and number sets come in various sizes (1/16 to 5/8 inch) and help you mark your parts and tools, keeping them in your toolbox instead of someone else's. Serial numbers on your tools help you track part tolerances, rework issues, and even repetitive client returns and warranty issues.

3. Center Punch/Transfer Punch

Finding the center of your hole can be as tricky as finding the center of the world. Luckily, the center/transfer punch has your back. These punches take the hassle and guesswork out of hole positioning, ensuring your parts fit together as per the drawings. Automatic center/transfer punches don’t even require a hammer; just turn the top knurled cap to regulate the force. KBC offers these in individual or kit form from brands like KBC, Starrett, and General.

4. Bondhus Ball L-Wrench Sets

These handy tools come in metric (1.5 to 10 mm) and imperial (.050 to 3/8 inch) sizes. With a carrying case, you’ll know exactly when one is missing. The ball end allows for neutral hand and wrist movement, reducing the risk of carpal tunnel. Available in stubby and long-arm versions, and even a 14k gold-plated set for those fancy folks. Pro tip: glue a magnet to the back of your set to keep it on your machine, right where you need it.

5. Milwaukee Metric/SAE 106 Piece Socket Set

This set is a game-changer, housed in a low-profile Milwaukee Packout organizer. It includes:

1/4" drive 50 piece ratchet and socket set (5/32 - 9/16", and 5 to 15 mm)
3/8" drive 56 piece ratchet and socket set (1/4 - 1", and 6 to 9 mm)

Perfect for loosening bolts, screws, and quickly assembling components. This set has you covered.

6. Wiha Magnetizer/Demagnetizer

Your magnetic personality might not be enough to keep those tiny screws on the end of your screwdriver. Enter the Wiha magnetizer/demagnetizer. Simply put your tools in the correct hole on this 1x2x2" square, and voila! No more lost screws. The perfect combination of magnetized tools and a magnetic personality will keep your screws in place.

7. Bolt Extractors

Got a broken screw, bolt, stud, or pipe? Bolt extractors to the rescue! Available in #4 to #24, 1/4 - 2 inch, and 5 to 10 mm sizes, these kits (like the 1-397-6718 from KBC) come with drill bits and extractors. Brands like Bondhus, Alden, Walton, and Rigid offer great options. The Alden bolt extractors are especially handy with a drill bit on one side and an extractor on the other - just flip and you’re done. No more screaming or swearing necessary!

So there you have it - the seven must-have hand tools for your metalworking toolkit. Check out more offerings at KBC Tools and remember, the one with the most tools wins!