Top 10 Tools for DIY Preppers | Episode 456

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Top 10 Tools for DIY Preppers | Episode 456

In Episode 456 of the Survival Punk Podcast, we’re getting our hands dirty with a topic that matters more than most people realize — tools. Not the tactical gear with molle straps. Real tools. Power tools, hand tools, and the stuff that lets you build, fix, and survive without waiting on someone else.

If you’re into self-reliance — whether in the city, the suburbs, or out in the woods — you need a solid foundation of gear that works. These aren’t collector’s pieces. They’re what you actually use when stuff breaks, when you’re making upgrades, or when you’re building from scratch.

This episode is a breakdown of my Top 10 tools for the DIY-minded prepper. These are the ones I reach for constantly — and the ones that should be in every garage, shed, or bugout trailer.

The Power Players

Drill

Cordless or corded — doesn’t matter. This is the workhorse. From drilling pilot holes to driving screws, you’ll use this for building projects, fence repairs, gear mods, you name it.

Oscillating Tool

The unsung hero. Cuts, sands, scrapes, trims in tight spaces — it’s the multi-tool of the power tool world. Not flashy, but wildly useful when the job is awkward or tight.

Reciprocating Saw

Perfect for demolition, cutting through wood, metal, and even bones if it came to that. A go-to for clearing brush, salvaging materials, or urban scavenging.

Circular Saw

The first saw you should buy if you’re new to building. Fast, simple, deadly efficient. Ideal for basic lumber cuts when you’re slapping together shelters, furniture, or even janky workbenches.

Miter Saw

If you’re doing serious carpentry or repeat cuts, this makes life easier. Clean angles, perfect crosscuts — the kind of tool that makes your projects cleaner and faster.

Hand Tool Must-Haves

Hammer

Obvious, but if it’s not on your list, you’re doing it wrong. Smack things, pry things, intimidate the unprepared. Still undefeated.

Tape Measure

The cheapest tool you’ll use every single day. Measure once, cut once, and stop wasting lumber and money. Precision matters — even in a collapse.

Socket Set

You don’t need a mechanic’s shop, but you do need the ability to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts without stripping them. Buy quality here if you can — cheap sockets round off fast.

Pliers

Needle-nose, channel locks, slip joint — doesn’t matter. Pliers are your second set of hands, and they’ll save your butt more times than you think. Grip, twist, hold, clamp — total utility.

Chisel

Whether you’re doing woodworking or scraping old caulk, a good chisel is a straight-up problem-solver. Also handy for fine demolition or shaping scrap into something useful.

Final Thought: Tools Are Freedom

Tools are more than steel and plastic — they’re proof that you don’t have to depend on anyone. Owning tools is good. Knowing how to use them is better. Knowing when to improvise, when to repair, and when to build from scratch? That’s survival.

Listen to Episode 456 and get your gear in order — because being ready starts with what’s in your hands, not what’s in your cart.

Links

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2) (https://amzn.to/44UGMDx)

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit, 3 Speed, With Blades, Battery and Charger Included (DCS356C1) (https://amzn.to/452wNez)

DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Bare Tool Only (DCS391B) (https://amzn.to/44llaA6)

DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, One-Handed, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS369B) (https://amzn.to/45X6CrD)

DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel, Compound (DWS715) (https://amzn.to/3IiJeuV)

Jorgensen 20 oz Straight Claw Hammer with Magnetic Nail Holder, Rip Claw Hammer with Milled Face & Shock Absorbing Grip, Heavy Duty One-piece Forged Hammer (https://amzn.to/3Ife9Zb)

Komelon SL2825 Self Lock 25-Foot Power Tape (https://amzn.to/3Imn231)

IRWIN Marples Chisel Set with Wallet, 3-Piece (1768781), Blue (https://amzn.to/3IlvQGj)

Amazon Basics Mechanic’s Tool Socket Set With Case, 123-Piece (https://amzn.to/4llgsZd)

WORKPRO Pliers Set, Premium Cr-V Construction, Includes 6 Inch Slip Joint, Long Nose, Diagonal Cutting, 8 Inch Groove Joint, 7 Inch Linesman and Storage Pouch, for Basic Repair (https://amzn.to/4nDirJM)

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