TOOLS

T is for Tools because, hey let’s face it, there’s going to be some handyman work going on in your new digs and unless, you have an unlimited budget to call Ricardo every time you need something done. And well, you’re a man or a woman with cojones so “man” or “woman” up.  So here’s a short list of things you should have on hand, according to David Tenenbaum, author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Home Repair and Maintenance.” Hey, we never said we were smart…

THE ESSENTIALS

1. Toolbox: $30
Let's get you something to put all that fun stuff in, shall we? Of course, this will only be as good as the tools you put in it, and making sure you always put everything back in its place (that's right, it's back-clean up, clean up everybody do your share..") but seriously it will save you lots of headaches and frustration if you know where your tools are. So go out and get a sparkly tool bag or a true man bag--you know you've always wanted one...

2. Hammer: $15
They come in steel- or fiberglass-shaft some with vibration-dampening rubber grips (we likey that one). If you're all hard core and are interested in doing some demolition work, choose a model with a straight or "rip" claw, not a curved claw. They also say we should sandpaper the face of a hammer every once in a while so the nails don't slip off and get your finger...yeeooow!!  Note: this can also be used as a weapon.

3. Pry bar: $15
Yes, also used for breaking into vehicles, a 12- to 15-inch pry bar is pretty handy around the home. Hexagonal is better than spring steel...that way, it doesn't bounce back and break any glass...

4. Vise grips: $10
The mad dog 20/20 in your tool box, these locking pliers can stabilize things like metal or PVC pipes. When you're done, the lever in the opposite handle releases the jaws. If you're OK with second place, channel-lock pliers are a good second choice.

5. Needle-nose pliers: $8
These suckers can get a hold of anything-especially useful in electrical work where spaces can get tight. Get a pair with a wire-cutting blade near the hinge, trust us, it'll help.

6. Screwdrivers (mixed set): $20
Spend a few more dollars in this area and you won't be sorry. A good-quality mixed set that includes 1/4- and 3/8-inch flat heads and No. 1 and No. 2 Phillips head drivers will go a long way. Magnetic heads come in handy, too. If you want to get all fancy, you can get an electronic drill but Tenenbaum advises against cordless electric screwdrivers; instead, he uses screwdriver bits with his corded electric drill, which provides more torque and never needs recharging.

7. Wire cutter/stripper: $10
Amatuers will try to strip wires with anything but however since amatuer hour is over, you will need this handy plierlike tool that scores and strips the casing off varying gauges of wires to speed electrical jobs.

8. Tape measure (16-foot): $4
Stick to getting a good-quality, easy-locking, 3/4-inch-wide model...half-inchers just don't stay in place when extended; the one-inchers are overkill.

9. Electrical tester: $2
Stay cheap on this one-just get it with two probes and a light to indicate the electrical current is present. On  serious note, do test it in a working outlet each time before you use it to make sure it's still working. If it's dead, you may be as well.

10. 3/8th-Inch Reversible drill with bit set: $40
It's the only electrical tool you REALLY need. While stores may try to sell you on one with all the bells and whistles, stick with a corded model: They're lighter, cheaper and never run out of juice.

11. 1/2-inch steel chisel: $10
Used in the Caveman days, one of the most ancient tools is also essential. When you need a chisel (and you will), there's really no acceptable substitute. And forget the plastic- and wooden-handled varieties.

12. Utility knife: $4
Doubling as a decent security device, grab one of these with replaceable blades. It's pretty handy and when the time comes, there is no substitute.

13. Handsaw: $15
While a circular saw is a nice investment, sometimes it's more comforting to go with a short handsaw...especially if you're not as careful as we'd like to think you are. They say, a good choice is the 12-inch FatMax by Stanley; it's lighter and cuts straighter and faster than traditional handsaws.

14. 9-inch torpedo level: $9
It's all about the bubbles baby...when leveling that is. Lasers are fun in theory but nothing is as accurate as those darn bubbles.

15. Safety glasses: $6
Simply put, you need your eyes so keep 'em safe.