Hand Tools Every Prepper Needs for Automotive and Metalworking Projects

In the past we posted a list of carpenter tools every prepper should have.  Today I am posting a list of automotive and metalworking hand tools.  Now this is just a basic list.  There are hundreds of other items that could be added to this list, including blacksmithing and more advanced motor repair tools.

The metalworking hand tools shown in this list are all tools that with a couple of exceptions would function without electric power.  If you had these tools combined with the ones on the list of carpentry tools, you would have the necessary tools to do most basic repairs and depending on your skill level, many advanced ones.

A list of metalworking hand tools

• Tin snips and shears for cutting sheet metal

• A scribe for marking metal

• Rulers or tapes

• Dial calipers for measuring

• Machinists square

• Assorted center punches

• Taps and dies

• A set of easy outs for removing broken bolts

• Hacksaws and a good supply of blades

• Assorted channel locks

• Cold chisels, several sizes

• Ball and peen hammers, small and large

• A good sturdy vise

• A large anvil

• Assorted metal files, flats, round and triangular

• Assorted pliers, including long nosed

• A hand drill with both wood and metal bits

• Assorted open-end wrenches

• Assorted sockets and ratchets 1/4 and 1/2 inch

• Crescent wrenches 4 thru 12 inch

• Vise grips, several

• Allen wrench

• Soft faced hammer of wooden mallet

• Assorted screwdrivers, both flat head and phillips

• Assorted pry bars

• A plumber’s torch

• Assorted pipe wrenches

• Wire strippers

• Wire cutters

• Channel locks a couple of sizes

• Timing light for older engines

• Ohmmeter

• Putty knife

• Hand level, I forgot to put this in the list of carpentry tools

• Clamps, good for both wood and metal work

• A good US made hydraulic jack

Now there are two other tools that I wish to discuss that would be great to have on hand. They are a drill press and a welder. Drill presses have been around for many years and were powered by hand, water or other means.  They even used horses on occasion. Hand powered ones are not to hard to find if you check barn sales, auctions and antique stores.  I have also seen them on ebay.

A friend of mine was still using an antique acetylene until just a few years ago.  It used calcium carbide to generate its own acetylene gas. It worked well and calcium carbide can be stored long term as long as you keep it dry. 

 Here is a link to information on calcium carbide generators.

If you know of any metalworking hand tools that I have missed, write and let us all know.

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