Setting the Stage: Top Amazon Picks for Beginner Set Carpenters
When hitting the road for your first tour, having the right tools can make all the difference. While you'll inevitably pick up more along the way, this list of essentials will kick-start your journey. Today, we're focusing on the basics, leaving power tools for another discussion. So, without further ado, here are the top ten must-have tools, in no particular order, to tackle set construction on your first tour. Let's dive in!
1. WISEUP 8mm Hex Keys, Metric CR-V Heavy Allen Key, Industrial Allen Wrench with T-Handle
Current Price: £6.59 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.5
Link: https://amzn.to/3UeHeGq
Perfect for locking all those coffin locks connecting your decks together. With its large handle grip, getting the leverage you need for those rusted locks is now not a problem. Something that can make a big difference when you’re trying to keep your load out moving.
The high-strength handle ensures durability meaning it will last tour after tour. The longer length of this Allen wrench makes it perfect for tight spaces, and the basic flat head design makes it versatile for all sorts of set. Trust me, this tool is a must-have for any set carpenter.
Current Price: £274.00 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: No
Rating: 4.6
Link: https://amzn.to/3UAgArN
With external dimensions of 56.06 x 45.52 x 26.47 cm and a 71L of internal volume, this case is perfect for the starting set carpenter, whether you have a small or large event. Your be able to fit the majority of your tools in this case. Like every Peli case it’s watertight, crushproof, and dustproof, meaning all your equipment is safe on the back of the truck.
Plus, the usual double throw latches and automatic pressure equalization valve make accessing your tools quick and easy. With a lifetime warranty and a trusted reputation since 1976, this case is a must-have for any serious set carpenter. Trust me, even when you upgrade to a flight case, this will still be in use.
Pro tip #1: For those looking to save a few bucks, skip purchasing the foam directly from the Peli website. Instead, check out this link on Amazon for a much more affordable option. Trust me, it's just as effective, if not identical. https://amzn.to/3U7Wzsc
Current Price: £19.14 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.7
Link: https://amzn.to/3vZ8noN
Let me introduce you to the Dirty Rigger DTY-MULTITOOL. It's not just for riggers. This bad boy is cut from 4mm hardened steel, making it one of the toughest multi-tools out there. It's a lifesaver for getting clamps or bolts off your stage. With 14 separate tools packed into one compact design, it will never leave you pocket. From nut tools to wire strippers to a handy bottle opener, this tool has you covered for all your needs. Plus, its durable matt black powder coat finish gives it that sleek look, until you drop it loading out at night time and never find it again. Trust me, you won't want to go on a job without it!
Current Price: £40.99 (not including voucher)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.7
Link: https://amzn.to/4dfEkcV
Made from premium chrome vanadium steel, these wrenches are built to last, with a mirror-polished finish and corrosion-resistant chrome plating. With 12 common sizes ranging from 8mm to 19mm, you'll have all the essentials at your fingertips. The 180-degree flexible head will save you loads of time during those quick builds, while the 72-tooth ratchet gears ensure smooth operation with just a 5-degree swing arc. Plus, the handy organizer pouch keeps everything neat and tidy in your new Peli case. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the profession, these will serve you well for a long time. Keep them safe.
Current Price: £13.89 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.4
Link: https://amzn.to/3Uhkqpn
Let me introduce you to the MAXPOWER Claw Hammer with 17mm x 19mm Scaffold Ratchet Spanner. This 4-in-1 includes a scaffold ratchet spanner, podger spanner, pry bar, and nail puller. With a dual metric size ratchet socket wrench head and a 24-tooth ratchet mechanism, toggling the direction is a breeze. Plus, the straight claw design is perfect for ripping, lifting, splitting, and prying. The tapered pry bar handle makes lining up bolts a cinch, while the industrial black finish ensures durability. This all-in-one tool is a game-changer.
Current Price: £29.50 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.8
Link: https://amzn.to/3WcPwRx
This is a quick recommendation for you: the AMTOVL Hex Keys Set. Trust me, having an imperial and metric key set in your toolbox is an absolute must for anyone in construction. This one ticks all the boxes - it's durable, compact, and has never failed me yet. With its extra-long design and ball end feature, it's perfect for reaching those tricky spots. Plus, the colour coding and T-handle design make it super convenient to use. When you're dealing with equipment from different countries, having all angles covered is a game-changer. So do yourself a favour and make sure you've got one of these bad boys in your toolkit. You won't regret it!
Current Price: £13.49 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.5
Link: https://amzn.to/3JXbot7
Yes, its very, very cheap, and it looks disgusting. I know. Get over it. It's always wise to have a cheap pair of pliers on hand for tours, so you can use them without worrying about losing or misplacing them. That being said, This multi-tool was recommended to me by a lighting technician on one of my first tours and I still use it to this day. It’s got 13 essential tools in one compact package, including pliers, screwdrivers, and a blade, it’s lightweight and portable and is perfect for on-the-go use.
Pro tip #1: If you're thinking about investing in high-quality, pricey pliers, hold off on getting them engraved. Companies like Leatherman may offer free repairs, but if you send them in, they'll likely replace them with a new pair. Unfortunately, this means you'll lose any engraving on the original ones, and they won't return the original pair.
![Ledlenser H14R.2 - Rechargeable Outdoor LED Head Torch, Super Bright 1000 Lumens Headlamp, Water Resistant (IPX4), Camping, Hiking Equipment, Head Torch Rechargeable, Up to 35 Hours Running Time [Energy Class A++]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/660071be6bea0b0d068f0e27/055ae348-d378-4c0f-9ced-a0ad9c7d5ed9/LEDLEN%7E1.JPG)
Current Price: £119.50 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.6
Link: https://amzn.to/4biW5GN
Having a dependable head torch is essential for anyone working behind the scenes at concerts or festivals. While it might seem tempting to opt for cheaper options, they often end up being unreliable and needing frequent replacements. That's why investing in a quality product like the Ledlenser LED Head Torch is worth it. It’s got a powerful 1000 lumens output and long-lasting battery life of up to 35 hours, it's perfect for long hours on the job, with only intermittent opportunities for recharging. Plus, its durability ensures it won't being thrown around in your toolbox. Whether you choose this model or another from the brand, Ledlenser is known for delivering reliable performance, making it a smart choice for your needs.
Pro tip #1: If you prefer a basic hand torch, I got the Ledlenser P7 and it’s been reliable for me every time. https://amzn.to/44mru92
Current Price: £71.46 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.7
Link: https://amzn.to/49RK5e8
With todays safety standards, especially when you're touring arena stages, a safety helmet is a must have! The Petzl brand is the most commonly adopted brand and industry standard if you're in need of a reliable helmet for those high-up building tasks. This helmet is all about comfort and safety, with its fabric harness and six-point fastening ensuring a snug fit. Plus, the centerfit and flip and fit systems make adjustments a breeze, keeping the helmet securely in place while you work. With an adjustable chin strap, it's suitable for both elevated tasks and ground work. You're also able to buy spare padding when the other ones become over used.
Current Price: £23.22 (each)
Amazon Prime Delivery: Yes
Rating: 4.6
Link: https://amzn.to/4dfOyds
This handy tool is your solution to a myriad of on-the-road challenges. Offering all the qualities you'd expect from a staple gun, it's not only durable and reliable but also delivers a strong punch when driving staples. With Stanley's renowned reputation for quality and reliability, you can count on this tool to consistently perform at its best. Avoid the frustration of ripped drapes and loose Velcro during quick load-outs—ensure your staples go in properly every time!
Honorary Mentions:
Great if you want to stop losing your tour ID.
A must for completing all your marking needs for for deck positioning.
If your decks need individual bolts, this drill attachment is the key to a faster load in/ out.
A must if your drapes need quick repairs or you need to attach Velcro.
Great when you need to have your drill with you at all times during a build.
If the drill holster is too much, this is your next alternative for an easy clip on clip off method. They come in packs of six, so you can attach them seamlessly to all of your drills.
Thanks for reading.
This blog serves solely as a review and recommendation of these companies' products, with no direct involvement or private arrangements between my company and them. It adheres to fair use copyright law, which permits the use of a company's logo and name for the purposes of review and criticism. Fair dealing allows the use of copyrighted work for criticism, review, or quotation, provided there is sufficient acknowledgment, and it applies to all types of work except photographs when reporting current events. The exclusion of photographs aims to prevent their reproduction by competitors in newspapers or magazines for reporting purposes.https://www.gov.uk/guidance/exceptions-to-copyright#criticism-review-and-reporting-current-events
