The 10 Best Women's Tool Sets
This wiki has been updated 33 times since it was first published in April of 2016. We don't want to perpetuate any sexist stereotypes, and the notion of gender-aligned hardware seems like a ridiculous premise, but some of these women's tool sets do feature grip sizes and implements, such as hammers and screwdrivers, designed for small hands, which makes them a bit more user-friendly for anyone with a slight build — so long as they don't mind a preponderance of pink. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Werktough Ladycraft
2. Scuddles Gardening
3. Apollo Complete DIY Multi-Pack
Editor's Notes
October 22, 2020:
As we've mentioned a couple of times, the pink factor typically doesn't indicate much (the exception being when the tools have been resized for smaller hands). So, it should be noted that many regular tool kits are just fine for most folks. Similarly, while we do have one yardwork-oriented option on this list, there are many other garden tool sets to choose from, too, if that's your passion.
In terms of updates, the Original Pink Box and Iron Forge Tools Basic have gotten the ax due to availability issues. In their place, we've added the Werktough Ladycraft and Deko Household, which were chosen for their dependable construction and variety of tools. The Apollo Complete DIY Multi-Pack now occupies the third space on the list, promoted because of its popularity among hobbyists and professionals alike.
December 10, 2019:
Let’s be real: most of the products in this category are toolkits that are suitable for most users — not just women. What sets them apart most of the time are pink decorative accents. Seemingly arbitrary color schemes aside, these sets' tools are just as useful as standard “men’s” toolkits, so no need to fear. Plus, if you have a handy spouse or family member, you may be seeking a set that is visually distinct from theirs, and these offer a simple solution for avoiding mix-ups.
This list features kits that come in both hard shell and canvas cases, so whether you need something heavy-duty and durable or something a little bit less bulky, you're likely to find a fitting product here. In terms of the actual tools inside, nearly all of these sets come with a hammer, screwdriver, and pliers — you know, the basics. Some include multiple bit sizes and there's even an option that comes with a drill: the Pink Power Cordless Combo. Purchasing a complete toolkit as opposed to building a collection one item at a time can save you money and help you stay organized.
The Stalwart Home, Iron Forge Tools Basic, and Cartman General are the newest additions to the list, chosen for their high-quality tools and sturdy cases. Unfortunately, the Stalwart 86-Piece, Cartman General Household, and Seriously Pink Household have been cut due to availability and quality concerns.
Special Honors
Blue Ridge Tools 40-Piece Those looking for a set that travels well will appreciate this durable option. It features 40 tools and a hardside case that will keep moisture out and dust from accumulating. There's an eight-inch ratcheting bit driver and 20 driving bits to meet the needs of most handymen and women. target.com
Bey-Berk Multi-Tool This 20-piece collection comes with a Phillips screwdriver, claw hammer, and retractable cutting blade, among many other implements. The slim notebook-style canvas case is easy to store and pack, and each tool's metal parts are made from steel. kohls.com
Her Hardware Homeowners It's not quite as feminine-looking as many of the other choices in this list, but it's still got a decidedly girly vibe thanks to sky-blue accents. The handles are ergonomically shaped for a solid grip, and the metal portions are coated with heat-treated chrome for enhanced strength. homedepot.com
4. Cartman General
5. Stalwart Home
6. Workpro Repair
7. Deko Household
8. Great Neck Essentials
9. Pink Power Cordless Combo
10. U-GoGirl Work
How Do I Choose A Tool Set?
The best place to start might be making a list of all the major items you'd like a tool set to include.
The first aspect anyone needs to consider before shopping for a tool set is what she plans on using that tool set for. Automotive tool sets will offer a different range of components than a carpenter's tool set or a household tool set, for example. The best place to start might be making a list of all the major items you'd like a tool set to include.
Try not to place too much emphasis on how many pieces a tool set might offer, as a lot of those pieces could be bits, sockets, or fairly similar accessories. While accessories can enhance a tool set by making it more customizable, your final decision should be based on locating a set that meets your needs.
Along those lines, you'll want to confirm that any tools in a set are made of durable materials, like iron or steel. You may also want to pursue tools that come with a rust-resistant plating, or a set that comes with an airtight case (thereby preventing moisture or dirt from seeping in).
If you have small hands, you may want to look into buying a custom tool set with narrow handles. If you have delicate skin, a set with cushioned grips can help you to minimize any risk of blisters or calluses.
The majority of tool sets come with their own belts, bags, or cases. If you're buying a tool set for occasional housework, a set with a belt might be sufficient. But if you need a tool set for work, a set with a bag or a case will allow you to carry more items, and it will also alert you to whether any items are either missing, or out of place.
Several Safety Tips For Working With Tools
One of the most common causes of workplace injuries is an employee using the wrong tool to get a job done. This is according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an agency that recommends asking someone or conducting further research in the event that you are uncertain how a task should be performed. Using the wrong implement could put you at risk for tetanus, splinters, or stitches, and it might result in you damaging a valuable piece of equipment, as well.
Any pair of work gloves should have a strong latex, leather, or polyester grip so that a tool's handle won't slip from your fingers, especially from a significant height.
Anyone who is working with tools should be wearing protective goggles (PPE), thick gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and durable boots that can protect both feet from protruding nails, wood shavings, jagged glass, and screws. This becomes even more important if you happen to be running a business, as employees who are injured on the job may be in a position to sue.
Any pair of work gloves should have a strong latex, leather, or polyester grip so that a tool's handle won't slip from your fingers, especially from a significant height. In addition, you should never carry a tool by its tip, head, or point. Tools that aren't in use should be returned to their proper storage area. Children, in particular, have a tendency to pick up tools that have been left around the house.
Whenever possible, put a tarp or a sheet down across any work area, and be sure to sweep the perimeter surrounding that tarp at the end of every night. You may also want to quadrant off any work area with a rope or traffic cones to deter any would-be trespassers from stepping inside.
How Basic Tools Have Defined The Course Of History
Tools have been in existence ever since early hominids developed the capacity for using their hands. While some of these tools were rudimentary (e.g., a sharpened stone or a stick), it's safe to suggest that prehistoric people crafted tools as a means of hunting, protection, and preparing food, as well as adapting to their environments. Archaeologists recently discovered a hand ax in Ethiopia, for example, that dated back more than two million years.
Over the course of centuries, slings became bows and spears became arrows.
Tools played a critical role in evolution, particularly in a human being's ability to defend him- or herself from being preyed upon by much larger - and more powerful - threats. Over the course of centuries, slings became bows and spears became arrows. Fire provided the ability to heat and shape metal. As a result, humans became the hunters as opposed to the hunted, capable of maintaining a well-rounded diet composed of meats and plants and fats.
During the ancient civilizations of Rome, Greece, China, and Egypt, tools allowed for the creation of waterways, water wheels, temples, houses, roadways, and even instruments of war. Julius Caesar infamously used skilled labor and a pile driver to build the first two bridges ever to span the Rhine River - a strategic maneuver that enabled the Romans to occupy Gaul, while extending their imperial reach across the Germanian border.
Up and through the Middle Ages, tools provided the means for men and women to develop a livelihood by becoming artisans, engineers, metal workers, and craftsmen. Tools provided the impetus for the Industrial Revolution, an era which, in turn, gave rise to colossal machines and mass production.
During World War II, an unprecedented number of women were enlisted to help build ships and other complex machinery across the United States and Europe. The success of these efforts eventually contributed to redefining the role of women, confirming that females had always possessed the ability to excel at manual labor and other blue-collar jobs.
Today, a lot of manufacturing jobs have given way to automated processes, and basic tools have given way to power tools. And yet despite this, any type of skilled labor is largely dependent on the use of elementary tools. As an employee or a business owner, you can't get by without them.
Taber is a writer from Santa Monica, CA, with a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of California, San Diego. After completing her degree, she began writing and editing copy for a host of high-traffic e-commerce websites. Her areas of expertise include the beauty, style, pet, and home products categories, and she has plenty of experience covering literature and art, too. Her personal interests in crafting and decorating inform her writing and -- she hopes -- add a good bit of insight to her work. Outside of copywriting, she is a reporter and columnist at a Los Angeles community newspaper and is currently pursuing a master of fine arts in creative writing.