Tools & DIY

What to buy first, and what the numbers on the box actually mean.

• The basic home tool kit: what you actually need for your first place

  The short list of tools that handles most everyday home jobs, what to skip in pre-made kits, and what to add when you're ready.

• Step, extension or multi-position: how to choose a ladder

  Which ladder type fits which job, how to work out the height you need, duty ratings explained, and fiberglass vs. aluminum.

• Magnetic or electronic: how to choose a stud finder

  How each type of stud finder works, which suits drywall vs. plaster, what AC detection really means, and how to confirm before drilling.

• Laser measure or tape measure: which do you need?

  What laser distance measurers do well, where a tape measure still wins, and the specs that matter for each.

• How to choose an extension cord: gauge, length and outdoor ratings

  What wire gauge numbers mean, matching a cord to your tool's amps, the letters printed on the jacket, and what not to plug into an extension cord.

• How to choose a socket set: drive sizes, SAE vs. metric, and 6- vs. 12-point

  What 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch drives are for, why you need both SAE and metric, deep vs. shallow sockets, and impact sockets.

• How to choose a shop vac (and why 'peak horsepower' tells you little)

  Tank size, airflow vs. water lift, hose diameter and the filter you need for drywall dust or wet messes.

• Drill or impact driver: which should you buy first?

  What each tool is good at, what '20V max' and 'brushless' mean, and why the battery platform matters more than the tool.