Hand tools are part of everyday life, whether you are fixing something at home, working on a small DIY project, or doing basic repairs. From measuring and cutting to tightening and shaping, these tools help you get practical jobs done without electricity.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are tools operated by hand rather than by motors or batteries. They are commonly found in homes, classrooms, workshops, and construction areas.
Names of Hand Tools
Measuring & Checking Tools
- Tape measure
- Try square
- Spirit level
Cutting Tools
- Handsaw
- Backsaw
- Hack saw
- Coping saw
- Scissors
- Pocketknife
- Ax
Fastening & Turning Tools
- Claw hammer
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Mallet
Shaping, Marking & Finishing Tools
- Chisel
- File
- Metal smoothing plane
- Scraper
- Punch
- Awl
- Bradawl
- Gimlet
- Brace
- Miter box
Common Hand Tools
- Hammer – used to drive nails into wood or pull them out
- Screwdriver – used to tighten or loosen screws
- Wrench – used to turn nuts and bolts (also called a spanner in British English)
- Pliers – used to grip, bend, or pull objects
- Tape measure – used to measure length and distance
Hand Tools | Examples & Photos
Tape measure
Always use a tape measure to check the size of a wall before hanging a shelf.
Backsaw
A backsaw helps make straight, precise cuts when working with wood joints.
Awl
Use an awl to make a small starter hole before driving in a screw.
Handsaw
He used a handsaw to cut the wooden board to the correct length.
Gimlet
A gimlet is useful for drilling small holes in wood by hand.
Metal smoothing plane
A metal smoothing plane is used to flatten and smooth rough wooden surfaces.
Punch
Use a punch to mark the center point before drilling.
Pocketknife
A pocketknife is handy for opening packages or cutting rope.
Chisel
The carpenter used a chisel to shape the edge of the wood.
Pliers
She grabbed the wire firmly with pliers and bent it into shape.
Spirit level
Check the shelf with a spirit level to make sure it is perfectly straight.
Screwdriver
Use a screwdriver to tighten the loose screw on the door handle.
Claw hammer
A claw hammer can both drive nails in and pull them out.
Wrench
He used a wrench to loosen the rusty bolt on the bicycle.
Scissors
The scissors are sharp enough to cut thick paper easily.
Mallet
Use a mallet to tap pieces together without damaging the surface.
Hack saw
A hack saw is used to cut metal pipes or plastic tubing.
Safety tip:
Always wear protective gloves and safety goggles when using sharp hand tools such as chisels, saws, or axes.
Last Updated on February 9, 2026
