What are Hand Tools?

When we talk about putting together a standard tool kit, the first thing that comes to our mind is a hand tool. Hand tools are the tools that are used for performing any type of home repairs by hand. They are used widely in all types of industries including manufacturing, agriculture, construction, automotive, plumbing etc. There are different types of hand tools, available in different shapes and sizes.

What is a Hand Tool?
A hand tool is a device or an instrument used to do a particular job that does not require a motor, but intended for hand held operation by one individual. Virtually every type of tool can be considered a hand tool. It provides a mechanical advantage in accomplishing a physical task.

Examples of Hand Tools
Hand tools include anything from hammer to wrenches, to axes, pliers, screwdrivers, punches, shears, chisels, toolboxes etc.

Materials in making Hand Tools
Hand tools are made of a wide variety of metals and wood. The common materials used in making the blades of hand tools are:

• Iron
• Steel
• Aluminum
• Brass
• Stainless steel
• Carbon steel
• Mild steel

The material used in making the hand tool handle is the wood . Sometimes plastic handles are also used.

Types of Hand Tools

• Manual Hand Tools: Manual hand tools are the most basic form of equipment. They do not require the speed of powered hand tools or do not have access to power sources but are perfect for operations. These include hoes, screwdrivers, chisels, wedges, drift pins, hammers etc.
  
  
• Pneumatic Hand Tools: Pneumatic hand tools perform the operation task at the push of a lever. They are powered by compressed air. They include chippers, drills, hammers, sanders etc.
  
  
• Power Hand Tools: Tools which are hand held but are powered by electricity. These include chainsaws, high grade motors, electric drills, angle grinders, jigsaw cutters, tappers, fasteners etc.

We give below a list of the various popular hand tools used for various purposes.

Awl Axe/ Hatchet Bars Clamp Chisel Cutter Drill Bit Drill File Guns Hammers

Mattock Mallet Planes Plier Punches Saws Screwdriver Shovel/ Spade Trowel Vise Wrenches