Father’s Day is right around the corner, and you might be wondering about the best gifts for the father figure in your life. Although there are certain gifts that come to mind right away when June rolls around every year – such as the classic tie, coffee mug, or gift card – if you’re looking to go a little bit outside of your comfort zone, I’ve rounded up some Father’s Day tool ideas that the handy guy in your life will be sure to love.
Speaking of going outside of your comfort zone, I have to admit, power tools knowledge isn’t exactly in my toolbox (couldn’t resist throwing in a dad joke). However, it was an opportunity to do a little research, as well as consult a verifiable expert – my father-in-law has been in the excavating, grading, and contracting business for over 40 years. He knows his stuff, and had some great input that I’ll be sharing below to impress the father figure in your life with your top-notch tool-shopping skills!
1. Power Drill
Although a power drill might not scream “sentimental Father’s Day gift”, it’s certainly something that he’ll appreciate and use! Plus, it’s true that the thought is what counts when it comes to gift-giving – he’ll appreciate the time and thought you put behind choosing the perfect gift that he’ll use rather than let sit on a shelf.
The RIDGID line came highly recommended by both my father-in-law and my husband. The latest version of their cordless power drill has 20% faster drilling and is 15% lighter than the last model. RIDGID tools also offer a lifetime warranty once the tool is registered, with free service and free parts for life if something breaks down the line. It’s a nice reassurance that your father figure will be sure to appreciate!
This 18V power drill kit is under $100 and includes a 1/2 inch drill/driver, a 2Ah battery, charger, and tool bag. If you’d like to add any accessories to your gift, Home Depot has a whole slate of other RIDGID tools and parts to choose from.
2. Wire Cutters
When it comes to wire cutters, my father-in-law said that lineman wire cutters are the sure way to go. They have 46% more strength than regular wire cutters and cut cleanly and crisply. This particular pair from Klein has hundreds of five-star reviews on Amazon. They’re made in the USA and have handle tempering that helps absorb the shock of the cut – plus a comfortable grip.
This is one of the best tool gifts for the dad who loves to do projects around the house, and needs a tool like this that he can reach for and use at a moment’s notice.
3. Pliers
Handyman dads will love this next great gift idea too. Plus, this is one that any family member might be able to find use of (no supervision required with this tool). Whether he’s just starting to fill his tool box or he’s a seasoned pro looking to replace some old tools, a new set of pliers is just the thing. The set includes five of the most essential pliers: 6-inch Longnose Pliers, 6-inch Diagonal Pliers, 6-inch Slipjoint Pliers, 7-inch Linesman Pliers, and 8-inch Groove Joint Pliers.
Use these pliers for loosening/tightening bolts and removing pins or other fasteners. They feature over-molded, ergonomic handles for a firm grip. This set will bring a simple tool to the next level.
4. Impact Driver
Although I may have had not known what an impact driver was before this post, I certainly can appreciate all that it can do now! If you need to install nuts and bolts into a surface using a combination of drilling and hammering, an impact driver is the tool for you.
My sources tell me that Klein has one of the best impact drivers on the market. For under $50, you can pick up a great gift for Dad’s Day by gifting him a 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket Set which includes 6 hex driver sizes plus a 1/4-inch bit holder. The hex driver sizes include: a 1/4-Inch, 5/16-Inch, 3/8-Inch, 7/16-Inch, 1/2-Inch, and a 9/16-inch. The impact driver socks feature different colors for easy identification. This ensures a quick selection of the right hex sizes.
5. Wrench Sets
Speaking of the best Father’s Day gifts, wrench sets might be the way to go. Particularly, my father-in-law recommended the Kobalt 3-Piece Chrome Vanadium Steel Adjustable Wrench Set. The set of three includes some of the most essential wrench sizes: a 6-inch adjustable wrench, an 8-inch adjustable wrench, and a 10-inch adjustable wrench.
This set specifically features extra-wide jaws for versatility, so they can be used for all sorts of home improvement projects. After all, the ultimate gift is one that he can use for a variety of occasions! This wrench set is certainly one he will keep handy in his work area.
6. Set of Precision Screwdrivers
Speaking of a great addition to a tool box, consider a set of precision screwdrivers. The Craftsman brand has a highly-rated set of 25 pieces. They feature a comfort-optimized handle for high and low torque applications. The set comes with the most commonly used shapes in a variety of hex configurations for driver bits.
7. Tool Box
A tool box is an ideal gift for the Father’s Day gift recipient who already has a full arsenal of power tools at his disposal. Craftsman is a well-known brand for their quality and durability, crafted out of heavy-duty steel. This style features flat drawers to lay out hand tools for easy organization, and a deeper storage area under the lid. If he would like something smaller to add to a work area or bench, this is a great tabletop choice.
8. RIDGID Tire Inflator
A tire inflator is more than just a great Father’s Day gift idea. It’s also one of the different tools that anyone could benefit from if you drive a car. If you’re on the road and in a pinch, you don’t want to be left stranded with low air in your tires. Once your tire pressure light comes on, you can pull over and add more air to your tires without having to find a gas station.
This version by RIDGID comes with a 12-volt vehicle power cord, quick coupler chuck, ball inflation needle, brass presta chuck, inflator nozzle, a 1.5 Ah battery, and operator’s manual (very important detail, at least to me). One small thing to note is that the charger is sold separately, so you’ll want to make sure to pick up one of those as well.
9. Lawn Mower
When it comes to lawn mowers, there’s a lot to be said about the benefits of an electric version over a gas one. First of all, an electric gas mower is better for the environment than its gas-operated counterpart. It has no fumes and obviously doesn’t use gas. Many communities are actually banning gas-operated tools like lawn mowers, including the state of California, due to environmental concerns.
An electric lawn mower is also a smoother, much quieter option. If your father figure has sensitive hearing or is older, this might be a great gift idea. It’s also much lighter, and easier to steer than a gas version. If he has an average-sized lawn, than the 55-minute charge should be able to mow the entire yard with no problem. Plus, other than charging and replacing the battery every so often, there is little maintenance to this kind of mower compared to a traditional one. It might just be the perfect time to encourage your dad to make the switch!
10. Fire Pit
The dad who loves hosting will appreciate a new fire pit for Father’s Day. It’s a great place to unwind after a long week of hard work and gather with family and friends. Whether he’s telling a scary story or roasting marshmallows, a fire pit is the perfect backyard staple for entertaining. A movable fire pit, like this 36″ one from Amazon, is also the perfect choice for tight spaces that might not allow for an extra-large, permanent fixture.
11. Charcoal Grill
If your dad would rather be outside grilling on a beautiful day than starting a new home improvement project, you might consider gifting him a charcoal grill instead of power tools. When I asked around about the best charcoal grill on the market, hands-down the most popular response was the Weber Original Kettle Grill.
Even I’ve heard of Weber grills, and it turns out they’re so well-known for a reason. The Kettle grills have been around for 70 years – and have been known for quality and affordability ever since. For under $150, you can pick up a 22-inch design in classic charcoal black. Whether he’s cooking for the whole family or maybe making something to add to his lunch box, he’ll appreciate the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl to retain heat for superior grilling.
12. Portable Cooler
Last but not least, a portable cooler is perfect for a summer holiday gift – like Father’s Day! Whether he’s headed to the beach or a backyard cookout, a portable cooler will always come in handy. Plus, YETI can’t be beat when it comes to keeping drinks or snacks cold. This particular style fits 12 cans, which is perfect for an afternoon out.
Choosing the Right Tool for Dad’s Special Day
No matter who you’re shopping for this Father’s Day, they’ll be sure to appreciate one of the gift ideas above if they enjoy doing projects around the house. They do so much for us, and these tools will make their jobs a little bit easier!
No matter if they’re a longtime tradesman like my father-in-law or someone just starting out, there’s a tool out there for them (even if it’s just a tool to better enjoy their backyard!). And to all of the father figures out there, happy early Father’s Day!
And if you’re looking forward to treating your father figure to a celebration with the whole family, we have the perfect post for you. Up Next: Elevate Your Next Summer Get-Together With This Delicious Crudités Platter With Aioli Dip
