Hand tools are an essential part of any craftsman's toolkit. Whether you're a carpenter, a woodworker, or a DIY enthusiast, having the right hand tools is crucial to getting the job done right. In this article, we'll be discussing the must-have hand tools for any craftsman, with a focus on Crown Tools and Clifton Tools.

Crown Tools has been manufacturing hand tools since 1977, and their products are known for their durability and precision. Clifton Tools, on the other hand, has been producing high-quality woodworking tools since the 18th century, and their tools are revered by woodworkers around the world. So, let's dive into the must-have hand tools for any craftsman, with a focus on these two industry leaders.

Hand Planes

Hand planes are essential for smoothing rough wood surfaces, flattening boards, and removing excess material. Crown Tools and Clifton Tools offer a range of hand planes, including block planes, smoothing planes, and jack planes. The Crown Tools No. 4 smoothing plane is a popular choice among woodworkers, while the Clifton 410 shoulder plane is perfect for trimming joints.

Chisels

Chisels are used for cutting and shaping wood, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Crown Tools and Clifton Tools both offer a range of high-quality chisels, including bevel-edge chisels, mortise chisels, and carving chisels. The Crown Tools 750 series bevel-edge chisels are a great choice for general purpose woodworking, while the Clifton 500 series mortise chisels are ideal for cutting deep mortises.

Saws

Saws are essential for cutting wood, and there are many different types of saws to choose from. Crown Tools and Clifton Tools both offer a range of saws, including hand saws, back saws, and coping saws. The Crown Tools Gents saw is a popular choice for general purpose cutting, while the Clifton 3110 back saw is perfect for precise joinery work.

Marking Tools

Marking tools are used for marking out wood for cutting and shaping. Crown Tools and Clifton Tools both offer a range of marking tools, including marking gauges, marking knives, and try squares. The Crown Tools Rosewood Mortice Gauge is a popular choice for mortise and tenon work, while the Clifton 170 bullnose plane is ideal for trimming and shaping small rebates.

Measuring Tools

Measuring tools are essential for accurate woodworking, and Crown Tools and Clifton Tools offer a range of measuring tools, including rulers, tape measures, and calipers. The Crown Tools 12" Combination Square is a popular choice for measuring and marking out wood, while the Clifton 500 series outside calipers are ideal for measuring external dimensions.

In conclusion, whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, having the right hand tools is crucial to getting the job done right. Crown Tools and Clifton Tools both offer a range of high-quality hand tools that are essential for any craftsman. So, if you're looking to invest in some new hand tools, be sure to check out these two industry leaders.