E. Checklist for Hand Tool Selection

Use BOTH sides of the checklist to compare similar tools. For example, if you have two pliers and want to select the best of the two, compare each tool against the features on the checklist. The more "Yes" answers the tool has, the better the tool.

Refer to Section D, Tips for Selecting Hand Tools, for more details.

  Check if "YES"
Select the tool that has the most "YES" answers. EXAMPLE Single-handle tools Double-handle tools
Tool1 Tool2 Tool1 Tool2
1 For single-handle tools used for power tasks: Does the tool feel comfortable and have a handle diameter between 1¼ inches and 2 inches? Handle grip for a hand tool
2 For single-handle tools used for precision tasks: Is the handle diameter between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch? Hand tool handle
3 For double-handle tools used for power tasks: Is the grip span at least 2 inches when closed and no more than 3½ inches when open? PliersPliers
4 For double-handle tools used for precision tasks: Is the grip span no less than 1 inch when closed and no more than 3 inches when open? PliersPliers
5 For double-handle tools: Is the handle spring-loaded? Spring-loaded pliers
6 Is the tool handle without sharp edges or finger grooves? Screw driver with no sharp edges on the handle
Pliers with no sharp edges on the handle
7 Is the tool handle coated with soft material? Screw driver with soft handle
8 Can the tool be used while keeping your wrist straight? Pliers with bent handle
9 Can the tool be used with your dominant hand or with either hand? Pliers held in left handPliers held in right hand
10 For high-force tasks: Is the handle longer than the widest part of your hand (usually 4 inches to 6 inches)? Plier handles in palm of hand
11 Does the tool handle have a non-slip surface? Pliers
Home Previous Next