A Guide to Building Your Robotics Toolkit
With that, I present my toolbox of essentials. In some cases the exact items, such as my RadioShack wire strippers, are no longer available for purchase, in which cases I have linked to the most similar item I can find.
Pliers Set
A good pack of pliers is one of the most important investments for any maker, tinkerer, or robotics enthusiast. A mixed set, usually including needle-nose, flat-nose, and diagonal cutters, covers almost every small repair or build scenario. Look for tools with comfortable grips and hardened steel jaws. Quality pliers can easily last decades if properly used and maintained.
Wire Strippers
Reliable wire strippers are indispensable for anyone working with electronics. Mine are an old pair from RadioShack that have outlasted several newer models. Personally I haven't been happy with any "automatic" types of wire strippers I've tried out and have found that most don't work well.
A good set should strip multiple gauges cleanly without nicking the conductor. If you’re just starting, look for strippers with an integrated cutter and crimping capability, they'll save space in your kit.
Multimeter
Whether you’re diagnosing a circuit or checking a battery, a multimeter is your window into what’s really happening in a circuit. If you’re new to electronics, start with a multimeter that at minimum offers: continuity testing, voltage, current, and resistance measurement.
Soldering Iron and Solder
A soldering iron is where creativity meets precision. From fixing a broken wire to assembling an entire robot, soldering is one of the most satisfying and useful skills to learn.
Pair your iron with rosin-core solder for electronics work, and keep a damp sponge or brass tip cleaner handy, and always remember to tin your tip before storage.
Long precision screwdrivers
For small devices and electronics, a set of long precision screwdrivers is invaluable. These reach into tight places without stripping delicate screws. Magnetic tips can be a nice bonus, especially when dealing with tiny hardware, but aren't always necessary.
Multi-bit Screwdriver Set
When I’m not working on fine electronics, I've been preferring ratcheting screwdrivers with interchangeable bits. One handle, many options. These save time and reduce clutter, making them perfect for quick home repairs or assembling kits.
Look for a set with Phillips, flat, Torx, and hex bits (you’ll use them all).
Miter Saw
A miter saw might seem overkill for small projects, but it’s a precision tool for cutting frames, enclosures, and supports. If you’re mixing woodwork with robotics or general DIY builds, this tool will save countless hours.
A clean, accurate cut is the difference between something that looks homemade and something that looks professional.
Hammer
Sometimes you just need to persuade things into place. A good hammer belongs in every toolbox. I use mine for everything from dissembling stubborn assemblies, to various carpentry tasks.
Drill Index and Cordless Drill
A drill index (organized set of drill bits) and a cordless drill are an unbeatable pair. Together they open up endless build possibilities: mounting boards, drilling through plastic enclosures, mixing small batches of epoxy, or on one rare occasion - frothing whipping cream for a latte.
A variable-speed drill with a good clutch setting gives you control when working with fragile materials.
Drill: https://amzn.to/4qESWcJ
Drill index: https://amzn.to/3JurzBq
Breadboards
For testing circuits before soldering, a breadboard is essential. It lets you prototype electronics without permanent connections. I recommend keeping at least one full-size breadboard and a few smaller ones for miscellaneous projects.
Notebook
Never underestimate the power of a notebook. Sketch out circuits, jot down measurements, or record ideas for your next build. Paper remains one of the best debugging tools ever invented.
Pair it with a smooth pen or colored pencils, especially if you like to visualize wiring paths or robot designs.
Creative Inspiration: The Robot Science Coloring Book
Every great project starts with curiosity. In addition to the tools mentioned above I'd also like to note that earlier this year I released The Robot Science Coloring Book which incorporates a great deal of what I've learned and explored within the field of robotics. I can say for certain that this book would never have existed without having had the right tools. Hopefully it will help others to find the creative inspiration and interest in science and technology that leads to their own robotic creations.
Don't forget to grab a pack of colored pencils and your favorite pen, and let your ideas come to life (no soldering required): https://amzn.to/43b8ZVC
Conclusion
Building your toolbox is a personal journey. The right tool can inspire new projects, while the wrong one can teach valuable lessons. My advice is to buy tools you’ll grow into, something slightly better than you need right now. Quality pays off in the long run, especially when you use them to create something that lasts.
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