At The Rethinker, we’re huge fans of Milwaukee tools—seriously, we believe they offer some of the most durable, high-performing tools on the market. Whether you’re fixing things around the house, diving into a weekend DIY project, or just preparing for those unexpected repairs every dad knows too well, having the right tools at your fingertips makes all the difference. Milwaukee’s blend of reliability, innovation, and power makes them our go-to brand, and we’re confident they should be yours too.
Every dad deserves a well-stocked garage, but more importantly, a toolbox filled with gear that stands up to wear and tear and can handle any task thrown its way. That’s why we’ve put together a list of must-have tools every dad should own—whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your kit. And, as usual, we’ll recommend our favorites from Milwaukee to make sure you’re getting the absolute best tools to get the job done right.
1. Cordless Drill
A cordless drill is one of the most versatile tools you can own. Whether you’re assembling furniture, mounting shelves, or making home repairs, a cordless drill offers the convenience and power to handle just about any task. It’s essential for drilling holes and driving screws efficiently without being tied down by a cord.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee M18 Cordless Drill – A powerful and reliable tool with excellent battery life. Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
2. Circular Saw
A circular saw is perfect for cutting through wood, metal, or plastic, whether you’re building a deck, cutting plywood, or working on home renovation projects. It’s a go-to tool for any DIY dad who enjoys woodworking or home improvement projects, allowing for fast, precise cuts.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Circular Saw – Delivers smooth, precise cuts with cordless convenience. Tested and approved – Read the full review
3. Orbital Sander
A sander is a must-have for smoothing out surfaces, whether you’re refinishing a piece of furniture, prepping a wall for painting, or working on a DIY woodworking project. An orbital sander ensures you get even, professional results every time, reducing the time and effort spent on sanding.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee M18 Sheet Orbital Sander – A versatile, cordless sander with excellent dust collection. Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
4. Hammer
Every garage needs a hammer for basic tasks like driving nails, removing them, or even light demolition. A good hammer provides both precision and strength, making it ideal for everything from simple home repairs to bigger construction projects.
Recommended Product: Spec Ops Tools Framing Hammer – Built for heavy-duty use, but precise enough for everyday tasks. Buy Now Here
5. Multi-Tool
A multi-tool is one of the most versatile tools in any dad’s toolkit, offering a range of functions like cutting, sanding, scraping, and grinding. With multiple attachments, it’s perfect for handling tight spaces or detailed work that other power tools can’t manage.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee Multi-Tool – A powerful and efficient tool for a wide range of tasks. Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
6. Socket and Ratchet Set
A socket set is crucial for working on vehicles, bikes, or anything that requires tightening or loosening bolts. Having a variety of socket sizes makes this toolset incredibly versatile, perfect for dads who enjoy DIY car repairs or any mechanical project.
Recommended Product: WORKPRO 450-Piece Drive Socket Set – We haven’t tried this but reviews say its comprehensive and durable set for all your mechanical needs. Buy Now Here
7. Tape Measure
A tape measure is essential for any project that requires accurate measurements, from hanging pictures to cutting materials to size. A high-quality tape measure ensures your work is precise and helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee 26-Foot Tape Measure – Durable, easy to read, and reliable for all your measurement needs. Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
8. Shop Vacuum
A shop vac is designed to handle tough cleanup jobs in your garage, from sawdust to liquid spills. Whether you’re working on a woodworking project or cleaning up after repairs, a shop vac keeps your workspace clean and safe.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee M18 Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum – Cordless and powerful, perfect for cleaning up any mess in your garage. Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
9. Pliers Set
A pliers set is essential for gripping, cutting, and bending wires or materials. Different types of pliers allow you to tackle a variety of tasks, from electrical work to plumbing and general repairs, making them a must-have for any well-rounded toolkit.
Recommended Product: Milwaukee Pliers Set – Durable and versatile, ideal for both home repairs and more technical work.Tested and approved – Buy Now Here
10. Ladder
A ladder is indispensable for home maintenance tasks like changing light bulbs, reaching high shelves, or painting ceilings. A sturdy, reliable ladder ensures safety while allowing you to get to those hard-to-reach places with ease.
Recommended Product: Soctone Telescoping Ladder A Frame, 16.5 Ft Aluminum Extension Ladder – Stable, safe, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor projects. Buy One Here
Final Thoughts
With these 10 essential tools in your garage, you’ll be equipped to handle any project or repair that comes your way. Milwaukee’s high-quality, durable tools ensure you’re always ready for action. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply want to stay prepared for everyday maintenance, investing in these tools will make your projects easier, faster, and more efficient.
