what are hand tools
Despite all the high-tech gadgets and powerful machines available today, hand tools are still important. They can perform a wide range of tasks efficiently and with high precision, and are used in the following fields: carpentry, automotive, and construction. It is also important to note that hand tools can be made of steel, aluminum, plastic and even wood, etc.
But what exactly are hand tools? In the simplest terms, hand tools are tools that are purely human powered. Because you operate them with your hands – no electrical, mechanical, chemical, or pneumatic energy is required.
This article aims to help you understand everything about hand tools, including what they are, how they are classified, and their importance. Knowing about hand tools is essential for anyone, even businesses, contractors, and DIY individuals.
advantages of hand tools
Hand tools have been an integral part of construction, craftsmanship, and repair for centuries. While power tools dominate the modern workplace, hand tools offer unique advantages that make them indispensable tools for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
- Precision and control: Hand tools provide direct feedback and control to the user, allowing for more tactile feedback with the material being worked on. Instant tactile feedback helps make corrections immediately, reducing errors and ensuring higher quality work. This is critical for tasks that require high-precision work, such as fine woodworking or intricate metalworking. Unlike power tools, which operate at high speeds and are difficult to manage, hand tools allow for meticulous adjustments and fine motion control.
- Cost-effectiveness: Hand tools are more affordable than power tools, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Basic hand tools (hammers, screwdrivers, pliers) are much cheaper than power tools.
- Maintenance and care: Hand tools require minimal maintenance compared to power tools, which require batteries, chargers, and more frequent repairs.
- Reliability: Hand tools do not rely on electricity or batteries, so they can be used anywhere and at any time. They can withstand tough conditions and are less prone to mechanical failure.
- Portability: Hand tools are generally small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them highly portable. Workers can easily carry multiple hand tools to different job sites without the need for special equipment or transportation.
Types of hand tools
Knowing and using the right hand tools is essential for the success of any project. Hand tools can be divided into several categories based on their use, and CRESTONE will explain their uses in detail. Each type has a unique set of tools and options for specific jobs and projects.
Cutting tools
Cutting tools are hand tools used for cutting, shaping, and removing materials. They are essential for shaping and finishing materials and are used in the woodworking, metallurgy, and construction industries. They can be sharpened to maintain their innovation and are usually made of steel or other strong materials. In addition, they are designed for specific uses and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Proper selection of the right cutting tool ensures precise cutting and quality work.
There are many types of cutting tools, each with its own specific uses. Some common types of cutting tools are:
- Saws: Used to cut wood, metal, and other materials, it is ideal for straight cuts. Saws come in various shapes and sizes, including hand saws, hacksaws, and more.
- Knives: Knives are used to cut different materials, such as cardboard, drywall, plastics. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including utility knives, utility knives, and pocketknives.
- Chisels: are commonly used in carpentry to carve or cut wood. Different types of chisels include bevel chisels, mortise chisels, and paring chisels for fine work.
Holding tools
Hand tools that are essential for holding or clamping materials in place during work are called holding tools. They are essential to ensure a high level of accuracy and precision when performing various operations, including sawing, sanding, and drilling. Holding tools come in many sizes and shapes, and are used in a wide range of applications, such as construction, metallurgy, and carpentry.
In carpentry, holding tools are used to hold materials while cutting, carving, or sanding. In some other jobs in the metal industry and construction, holding tools are tools that hold materials while punching, welding, or drilling, and are used to stabilize materials being assembled.
- Pliers: These come in many forms, such as needle-nose pliers (for fine tasks), slip-joint pliers (with adjustable jaw size), and locking pliers (for a firm grip).
- Vise: A mechanical device with jaws used to hold a workpiece securely.
- Clamps: Used to hold objects together or in place. C-clamps and bar clamps are common types.
Striking tools
Strike tools are used to apply force to an object, often for hammering nails, breaking materials, or fitting parts together. Striking tools are needed for jobs that require quick and precise application of force, and applications include civil engineering, metalworking, woodworking, and the automotive industry.
There are many different types of striking tools, each with its own specific uses.
- Hammers: Hammers are used to break up materials and hammer nails. Types include claw hammers (for driving in and out nails), ball peen hammers (for metalworking), and sledgehammers (for heavy-duty tasks).
- Mallets: Usually made of wood or rubber, they are used to strike surfaces without causing damage. Great for carpentry, assembling furniture, and laying tiles.
- Punches: Used to hammer in objects such as nails or to make marks in materials. Center punches and punches are common examples.
Measuring and marking tools
Measuring and marking tools are essential hand tools used to measure and mark materials for accuracy and precision. Many industries, including engineering, construction, metallurgy, and carpentry, use measuring and marking tools. Measuring and marking tools ensure that materials are cut to the correct size and shape when working with wood. Measuring and marking tools in metalworking ensure accurate drilling and cutting of materials. Measuring and marking tools are used in construction to ensure that materials are installed correctly. Measuring and marking tools in engineering ensure that machines are built to specifications.
- Measure distances with a ruler, verify angles with a square, and measure distances with a tape measure.
- Level: Ensures that a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical. Types include spirit levels and laser levels.
- Chalk lines: Used to mark long straight lines on flat surfaces such as walls, floors, and plywood.
Fastening tools
Fastening tools are essential tools for assembly and disassembly tasks. They secure materials or hold them together, ensuring that materials are properly drilled, cut, and installed. Fastening tools have many uses, such as in construction, metalworking, carpentry, and auto repair.
- Screwdrivers: Available in various types (flat, Phillips, Torx) for driving screws into or out of materials.
- Wrenches: Used to turn nuts and bolts. Common types include adjustable wrenches, combination wrenches, and socket wrenches.
- Allen keys: Also called hex wrenches, they are used to drive into hex socket bolts and screws.
Digging tools
Digging tools are designed to penetrate and move soil and other loose materials. They are essential for gardening, landscaping, and construction tasks.
- Shovel: Used for digging, lifting, and moving soil, sand, gravel, and other loose materials. Shapes include round and square heads.
- Spade: Because of its narrow, flat blade, shovels are often used for digging and edging, especially in gardening.
- Diggers: Designed for digging narrow, deep holes for fence posts or planting trees.
Hand tool care and maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of hand tools are critical. Well-maintained tools last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement and saving money. Sharp, clean tools perform better, allowing you to work more precisely and with less labor. In addition, properly maintained tools are less likely to break down or cause accidents, protecting you from potential injury.
Regular cleaning
- Metal tools: After use, wipe metal tools with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris. For stubborn dirt, wipe with a cloth dampened with a mild soap solution or mineral oil.
- Wooden handles: Clean wooden handles with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. Avoid soaking the wood to prevent swelling and cracking. Apply a thin layer of linseed oil periodically to keep the wood in good condition.
- Plastic and rubber parts: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may degrade the material.
Sharpening tips
- Knives and chisels: Reshape the blade with coarse grit first, then polish with fine grit. Maintain a consistent angle, usually about 20 degrees.
- Hand saws: Sharpen each tooth using a saw file. Secure the saw blade in a vise and file each tooth individually, ensuring uniform height and angle.
- Axes and hatchets: Secure the tool in a vise. Use a file to restore the blade’s edge, then sharpen with a whetstone. Make sure to maintain the original bevel.
Rust prevention
- Wipe tools dry after use and store in a dry place.
- Apply a thin layer of motor oil or rust inhibitor spray to metal parts.
Storage
- Use a toolbox with separate compartments or foam inserts to prevent tools from knocking against each other.
- Hang frequently used tools on a pegboard for easy access and organization.
- Store smaller hand tools, such as wrenches or screwdrivers, in a tool roll to keep them organized and protected.
Safety considerations
For beginners, hand tools are safer than power tools, which can cause serious injuries if used improperly. Hand tools offer more control, which reduces the risk of slips and accidents. In addition, they create less noise and dust, reducing the risk of respiratory problems and hearing damage. Basic safety tips for hand tools:
- Wear close-fitting work clothes and shoes with sturdy, non-slip soles.
- Wear personal protective equipment, such as earmuffs to protect ears from noise and goggles or a face shield to protect eyes from dust and flying debris.
- Keep tools sharp; dull tools require more force and are more difficult to operate.
- Use a vise or clamp to stabilize the workpiece to keep the work area safe.
Take action
From the satisfying grip of a hammer to the precise cut of a sharp chisel, hand tools allow us to skillfully and carefully shape our environment. Any tool shop is only complete if it is equipped with hand tools that allow your customers to perform a variety of tasks accurately and precisely.
Partner with CRESTONE – China’s leading manufacturer of premium hand tools. Unlock exclusive access to our high-quality products, competitive prices and support tailored specifically to help you succeed in your distribution business.
