I know this has been discussed before, but I'll throw in my .02 .

I have a rag tag set of tools that I have accumulated over the years. I am
always keeping my eyes out for deals on the cheapie tool sets in addition to
onesie twosie craftsman tool sets I have purchased. The biggest problem I
have encountered is storage and organization.

Whatever you do, make sure you have adequate storage and organization.

One thing that I really love is a all in one toolset I got from a price club
(Sam's). It is contained within a plastic molded case, has many common
wrenches, screw drivers, sockets, etc. I usually keep this with me for the
road...and its organized. Its made by "crescent" which are the brand name
crescent wrench folks...

I have MANY duplicates because of the number of little sets I have bought,
but that really comes in handy for MOST projects because of bolts and nuts
that require pulling things apart from both sides, etc.

What I have used the most are, metric wrenches, metric socket sets in 3/8
and 1/4 (the 1/4 are INVALUABLE in tight, small spaces) and regular
screwdrivers..nothing too special.

Specialty tools I buy when I need and accumulate for every project. I
usually figure for every project there is a 60% parts and 40% tools
budget...so when I don't have to buy tools I feel like I am that much
further ahead ;-)

Ok, done rambling...hope this helps...

--
Dave - KC9FYM
http://fjazzbass.blogspot.com