Tools Reviews

Power tools, hand tools, air compressors, welders and shop storage, compared on performance, battery platform, build quality and value.

Best Digital Calipers of 2026

We tested digital calipers from budget plastic to machinist steel to find the ones that hold zero, read clearly, and survive shop work.

October 5, 2026

Best Hole Saw Kits of 2026

We tested general-purpose hole saw kits for clean cuts in wood, metal, and nail-heavy lumber. Here are the sets we recommend, from budget to pro.

October 5, 2026

Best Screw Extractors of 2026

We tested extraction pliers and easy-out kits for stripped, rounded, and broken fasteners. These are the picks that earn a place in your toolbox.

October 5, 2026

Best Wire Strippers of 2026

We tested automatic, self-adjusting, and manual wire strippers to find the best for household wiring, fine electronics, and tight budgets.

October 5, 2026

Best Air Impact Wrenches of 2026

We tested pneumatic impact wrenches on lug nuts, suspension, and rusted hardware to find the best torque-to-weight balance for home garages and shops.

October 4, 2026

Best Bench Vises of 2026

We tested bench vises from Forward, VEVOR, Wilton, Yost, and Real Avid to find the best for metalwork, pipe, woodworking, and gunsmithing.

October 4, 2026

Best Pipe Wrenches of 2026

We tested pipe wrenches for grip, reach, and weight. Our picks cover general plumbing, tight spaces, and budget-minded tool sets.

October 4, 2026

Best PVC Pipe Cutters of 2026

We tested PVC pipe cutters for square cuts, blade life, and hand effort — from a premium ratchet to a cordless shear and a solid budget pick.

October 4, 2026

Best Quiet Air Compressors of 2026

We tested quiet air compressors from Makita, California Air Tools, and more to find the ones you can talk over, from 1-gallon portables to 8-gallon tanks.

October 4, 2026

Best 4-Foot Levels of 2026

We tested 48-inch box beam and I-beam levels for framing, layout and slope work. Here's the one to buy, plus digital, budget and non-conductive picks.

October 3, 2026

Best Bench Grinders of 2026

We tested bench grinders from DEWALT, JET, RIKON, WEN, and Bucktool to find the steadiest machines for sharpening edges and grinding metal.

October 3, 2026

Best Sledgehammers of 2026

We tested sledgehammers for demolition, stake driving, and tight-space work. These picks balance head weight, handle control, and shock absorption.

October 3, 2026

Best Torpedo Levels of 2026

We tested torpedo levels from Klein, DEWALT, Craftsman, and Franklin Sensors to find the ones that read true, hold on pipe, and fit a pouch.

October 3, 2026

Best Bolt Cutters of 2026

We tested bolt cutters on fence wire, chain, and padlocks. Knipex is our top pick for everyday wire; here's what to buy for locks and thick chain.

October 2, 2026

Best Folding Sawhorses of 2026

We tested folding sawhorses for capacity, latch design, and storage, and picked eight options, from a 2,700-pound steel pair to a budget set.

October 2, 2026

Best Hammer Tackers of 2026

We swung hammer tackers into house wrap, insulation, and sheathing to find the ones worth buying, from a first tacker to a roofing workhorse.

October 2, 2026

Best Ladders of 2026

We tested step, telescoping, and multi-position ladders. These eight earn their storage space, from a 2.56-inch fold to a 26-foot reach.

October 2, 2026

Best Sawhorses of 2026

We tested folding metal sawhorses for stability, setup speed, and storage. Here are the best pairs and singles for DIY, jobsites, and tight garages.

October 2, 2026

Best Telescoping Ladders of 2026

We tested telescoping ladders for attic, roof, and RV use, weighing reach against packed size, stability, and price so you can pick the right one.

October 2, 2026

Best Caulking Guns of 2026

We tested manual and cordless caulking guns to find the ones that lay a clean bead, stop when you release the trigger, and hold up to real jobs.

October 1, 2026