Section 7: Specialized & Miscellaneous Hand Tools

Beyond the major functional categories, numerous hand tools serve highly specialized purposes within specific trades or address unique tasks. This section covers a selection of these tools, including items for metalworking, electrical diagnostics, plumbing operations, automotive maintenance, sharpening, and general workshop utility, further broadening the scope of essential hand implements.

Metalworking & Forging Tools:

Anvil

  • Anvil: A fundamental blacksmithing tool; a heavy block of iron or steel with a flat top surface (face), a conical horn for shaping curves, and often a square hole (hardy hole) for holding specialized tools (hardy tools) and a round hole (pritchel hole) for punching. Provides a stable mass for hammering and shaping hot metal.
  • Swage Block: A large, heavy block of cast iron or steel containing various shaped depressions (swages) and holes on its faces and sides. Used in forging to shape metal into specific profiles (e.g., round, square, hexagonal) by hammering the metal into the depressions.
  • Fuller: A forging tool, either handheld (struck with a hammer) or a hardy tool (fitting into the anvil's hardy hole), with a rounded or wedge-shaped edge. Used to spread metal, create grooves or shoulders, or neck down material.
  • Hardy Tools: A range of tools with square shanks designed to fit securely into the hardy hole of an anvil. Used for various forging operations like cutting, bending, punching, or shaping metal held over the tool while being struck by a hammer.
  • Pritchel: A type of punch, often used on an anvil's pritchel hole, specifically by farriers for punching nail holes in horseshoes.

Sharpening & Maintenance Tools:

  • Whetstone (Sharpening Stone / Oil Stone / Water Stone): A block of natural or synthetic abrasive material used to sharpen the edges of cutting tools like knives, chisels, plane irons, and scissors through controlled abrasion. Requires a lubricant (oil or water, depending on the stone type). Available in various grits for coarse shaping to fine honing.
  • Honing Steel (Sharpening Steel): A rod made of steel or ceramic, often with fine ridges, primarily used in kitchens to realign the microscopic edge of a knife blade between sharpenings, restoring sharpness temporarily. It does not significantly remove metal like a whetstone.
  • Honing Guide: A jig or fixture designed to hold a chisel or plane blade at a precise, consistent angle relative to the whetstone during sharpening, ensuring an accurate bevel angle. (Common sharpening accessory).
  • Wire Brush: A brush with stiff wire bristles (steel, brass, or stainless steel) used for cleaning metal surfaces, removing rust, scale, paint, weld spatter, or for cleaning the teeth of files.
  • File Card / File Brush: A specialized brush with short, stiff wire bristles designed specifically for cleaning metal filings (called pinning) from the teeth of a file, restoring its cutting efficiency.
  • Screw Extractor (Easy Out): A tool designed to remove screws or bolts that are broken off or have damaged heads, making them impossible to remove with a standard screwdriver or wrench. Typically involves drilling a hole in the broken fastener and using the extractor's reverse threads to grip and turn it out.
  • Thread Restorer: A tool, often resembling a file with multiple thread pitches or a specialized die, used to clean up and repair damaged or corroded external threads on bolts or studs, allowing nuts to be threaded on smoothly.

Electrical Diagnostic & Installation Tools:

  • Multimeter (Digital - DMM): An essential electronic diagnostic tool for electricians and technicians. Combines several measurement functions in one unit, typically measuring voltage (AC/DC), current (amperage), and resistance (ohms). Used for troubleshooting circuits, testing components, and verifying power.
  • Voltage Tester (Non-Contact / Voltage Sniffer): A simple, battery-powered safety device used to quickly detect the presence of AC voltage in wires, outlets, switches, or cords without making direct metallic contact. Typically indicates voltage with light and/or sound. Crucial for verifying power is off before working on a circuit.
  • Receptacle Tester (Outlet Tester): A device with prongs that plugs directly into an electrical outlet. Uses a pattern of indicator lights to show if the outlet is wired correctly (proper polarity, grounding) or if faults exist. Some models also include a button to test GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) functionality.
  • GFCI Outlet Tester: Specifically designed to test the trip function of GFCI outlets and breakers.
  • Circuit Breaker Finder: A two-part tool consisting of a transmitter (plugged into an outlet) and a receiver (scanned over the breakers in the electrical panel). Used to quickly identify which circuit breaker controls a specific outlet or circuit without trial-and-error switching.
  • Fish Tape (Electrician's Snake / Draw Wire): A long, flat, flexible strip of steel or fiberglass stored on a reel. Used by electricians to pull electrical wires or cables through conduit (pipes) or inside wall cavities over long distances.
  • Conduit Bender: A manual lever-action tool designed to make smooth, accurate bends in electrical conduit (EMT, IMC, or rigid metal pipe) to route it around obstacles or turn corners. Marked with angles for precise bending.
  • Terminal Block: An insulated modular block with clamping points or screws used to terminate multiple individual wires securely or to interconnect different circuits. Provides a safe and organized connection point. (More of a component, but listed as a tool in sources).
  • Coaxial Cable Connector Tool: Tools used for preparing coaxial cable (like for TV or internet) and attaching connectors (e.g., F-type, BNC). This usually involves specific stripping tools to expose the center conductor, shield, and dielectric correctly, followed by a crimping or compression tool to attach the connector securely.
  • Roto Split: Tool used to safely cut the armored casing (MC or BX cable) without damaging the wires inside, allowing the casing to be removed for termination.

Plumbing Specific Tools:

  • Push-to-Connect Fittings Removal Tool: A small, specialized tool (often plastic and specific to the fitting brand/size) designed to depress the release collar on push-fit plumbing connectors, allowing the pipe to be removed.
  • PEX Tool Kit: A set of tools required for working with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) plumbing systems. Typically includes:
    • PEX Tubing Cutter: For making clean, square cuts on PEX tubing.
    • PEX Crimp Tool: For securing crimp rings (usually copper) over fittings.
    • PEX Clamp Tool (Cinch Tool): For securing stainless steel clamp rings over fittings.
    • PEX Expander Tool: Used with expansion-type PEX fittings (e.g., PEX-A) to stretch the tubing end before inserting the fitting.
    • PEX Ring Removal Tool: For cutting off crimp or clamp rings to disassemble connections.
    • Go/No-Go Gauge: Used to verify that crimp or clamp rings have been properly secured.
  • Cartridge Puller: A specialized plumbing tool designed to grip and extract faucet cartridges (the internal valve mechanism) from the faucet body, particularly when they are stuck due to corrosion or mineral buildup. Often specific to faucet brands.
  • Nipple Extractor: A tool used to remove broken pieces of threaded pipe (nipples) that have snapped off inside a fitting. It typically has internal cams or flutes that grip the inside of the broken pipe piece when turned counter-clockwise.
  • Drain Snake (Drain Auger / Plumber's Snake): A long, flexible coiled cable (auger) that is inserted into a drainpipe to break through or retrieve clogs. Manual versions are often operated with a hand crank (hand auger). Larger versions exist for main sewer lines.
  • Plunger (Force Cup): A tool consisting of a rubber cup attached to a handle, used to clear clogs in drains through suction and pressure.
    • Cup Plunger: Standard plunger with a flat-bottomed cup, best suited for sinks, tubs, and showers.22
    • Flange Plunger (Toilet Plunger): Features an extended rubber flap (flange) below the cup, designed to create a better seal in the curved outlet of a toilet bowl.
  • Pipe Inspection Camera (Borescope / Drain Camera): A waterproof camera mounted on the end of a long, flexible cable, connected to a display screen. Used by plumbers to visually inspect the inside of drainpipes and sewer lines to locate blockages, damage (cracks, root intrusion), or other issues without excavation.
  • Propane Torch (Handheld): A portable torch fueled by a small propane cylinder, commonly used in plumbing for soldering copper pipes and fittings. Requires an igniter (spark lighter or built-in piezo) to light.
  • Heat Shield Cloth: A non-flammable cloth or pad placed behind a pipe joint being soldered to protect adjacent combustible materials (like wood studs or drywall) from the torch flame.
  • Flux Brush (Acid Brush): A small, disposable brush used to apply soldering flux paste evenly onto copper pipes and fittings before heating and soldering.
  • Emery Cloth (Sand Cloth): A durable abrasive cloth used for cleaning and polishing metal surfaces, particularly for cleaning the outside of copper pipes and the inside of fittings before applying flux and solder to ensure a good joint.
  • Plumbing Brushes (Fitting Brushes): Small wire brushes, often sized to fit specific pipe diameters, used for cleaning the inside of copper fittings before soldering.
  • Thread Sealing Tape (Plumber's Tape / PTFE Tape): A thin, non-adhesive tape made of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Wrapped around the male threads of pipes and fittings before assembly to lubricate the threads and create a watertight seal in threaded joints. Resistant to temperature and chemicals.
  • Plumber's Putty: A soft, pliable, clay-like sealing compound. Used to create watertight seals under sink drains, faucet bases, and basket strainers by filling the gap between the fixture flange and the sink surface. Remains soft and is not an adhesive.
  • Pipe Thread Sealant (Pipe Dope): A paste-like sealant applied directly to pipe threads (usually male threads) before assembly. Fills the gaps between threads to create a leak-proof seal and often lubricates the joint, allowing for tighter assembly. Used on various pipe materials, including metal and plastic, and specific formulations exist for different applications (e.g., water, gas).
  • Caulk Gun: A manual tool designed to hold a standard tube of caulk or sealant and dispense it controllably by squeezing a trigger mechanism that advances a plunger. Used for sealing gaps around sinks, tubs, windows, etc.
  • Swaging Tool / Flaring Tool: Tools used primarily on soft copper tubing (plumbing, HVAC, automotive brake lines). A flaring tool creates a conical "flare" on the end of the tube for use with flare fittings. A swaging tool expands the end of one tube slightly so another tube of the same original diameter can fit inside for soldering.
  • Tube Bender: A tool designed to bend metal tubing (copper, aluminum, soft steel) or plastic pipe to specific angles without collapsing or kinking the tube. Various types exist, including lever benders and spring benders.

Automotive Specific Tools:

  • Brake Bleeder Kit: A set of tools used to remove air bubbles from hydraulic brake lines (a process called bleeding). Kits may include wrenches for bleeder screws, hoses, collection bottles, and a vacuum pump or pressure bleeder to assist the process. Essential for maintaining brake system performance and safety.
  • Compression Tester: A diagnostic tool used to measure the pressure built up inside each engine cylinder during the compression stroke. Consists of a pressure gauge connected to a hose with an adapter that screws into the spark plug hole. Low or uneven compression readings can indicate engine problems like worn piston rings, valves, or head gasket issues.
  • Tire Pressure Gauge: An instrument used to measure the air pressure inside a vehicle's tires.Accurate tire pressure is crucial for safety, fuel economy, and tire longevity. Various types exist (pencil gauge, dial gauge, digital gauge).
  • Mechanic's Stethoscope: Similar in principle to a medical stethoscope, but designed for listening to sounds within machinery. Used by mechanics to pinpoint the source of internal noises like bearing whine, lifter ticking, or vacuum leaks by amplifying sounds from specific locations.
  • Oil Drain Pan: A wide, low-profile pan placed underneath a vehicle's engine or transmission to catch used oil or other fluids when they are drained during maintenance. Some have features like spouts or enclosed designs for easier disposal.
  • Funnel: A simple cone-shaped tool with a narrow tube, used to guide liquids (like oil, coolant, transmission fluid, washer fluid) into small openings like filler necks, preventing spills. Having a set of various sizes is useful.
  • Floor Jack (Trolley Jack): A hydraulic jack equipped with wheels (casters) that allows it to be easily positioned under a vehicle. Used to lift a portion of the vehicle off the ground for tasks like changing tires or accessing the undercarriage. Rated by lifting capacity (e.g., 2-ton, 3-ton).
  • Jack Stands: Adjustable support stands placed under the frame or designated lift points of a vehicle after it has been raised with a jack. Crucial safety devices that provide stable support, preventing the vehicle from falling if the jack fails or shifts. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Rated by weight capacity.
  • Wheel Chocks: Wedge-shaped blocks placed behind or in front of vehicle wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling accidentally, especially when parked on an incline or when being jacked up.
  • Mechanic's Creeper: A low-profile board or frame equipped with casters (wheels) that allows a mechanic to lie on their back and easily roll underneath a vehicle for access.

General Utility & Inspection Tools:

  • Pick Set: A set of small hand tools with slender shafts ending in various pointed, hooked, or angled tips. Extremely useful for a multitude of delicate tasks, such as removing O-rings and seals, disconnecting electrical connectors, retrieving small items, cleaning out crevices, positioning wires, or scribing lines.
  • Inspection Mirror: A small mirror attached to a handle, often telescoping or flexible, used to view areas that are hidden from direct line of sight, such as the back side of components or inside tight spaces in machinery or structures.
  • Magnetic Pick-Up Tool: A tool featuring a magnet attached to the end of a handle, which may be rigid, flexible, or telescoping. Used to retrieve dropped ferrous metal objects (screws, nuts, bolts, washers, small tools) from hard-to-reach areas like engine bays or down drains.
  • T-Handles: A type of wrench or driver featuring a T-shaped handle that provides a comfortable grip and good leverage. Often used with socket attachments or hex keys, particularly popular in motorcycle and motorsports maintenance for quick fastener removal/installation.
  • Safety Gear (as Handled Items): While primarily protective equipment, items like gloves, safety glasses/goggles, knee pads, and sometimes flashlights/headlamps are hand-operated or worn items essential for the safe and effective use of other hand tools. Their frequent mention alongside tools underscores their importance in any hand tool operation. Flashlights and headlamps are crucial for visibility in dark work areas.

This miscellaneous category highlights the vast specialization within hand tools. Many tools are designed not for general shaping or fastening, but for specific diagnostic procedures (like electrical testers or automotive compression testers ) or highly specific installation/repair tasks within a trade (like PEX tools in plumbing or forging tools for blacksmithing ). This demonstrates that as technology and materials evolve, hand tools continue to adapt to meet precise needs, moving beyond basic functions into areas of verification, diagnosis, and specialized assembly.