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Metal Pneumatic Fitting While most of you reading this column are automotive enthusiasts, it is probably safe to say

the majority of you don't become overly excited with words such as portable plasma cutter or pneumatic u-joint driver. These

are some of the fancier tools that are essential to the garage of the auto mechanic or metal fabricator, but probably not

necessary for you and me on a daily basis, unless, of course, you happen to be the type of person who bores out a 302 V-8

engine or is in the process of restoring or tricking out a hotrod. We all own tools for various home repairs and probably own

a handful of tools for use in the garage. Obviously many of the tools that are purchased at auto parts stores cross over for

home use. I recently acquired a collection of goodies from Matco Tools to use in my home garage and to bring onto the

Powerblock TV (weekends on Spike TV) set for times when I get my hands dirty. I've already put them to use and discovered

that, to make our lives at home and on the road safer and more efficient, there are several new tools you just shouldn't be

without. The quality of tools is constantly improving and they should. It's progress. I'm totally in love with the top torque

screwdriver set. The handles on the five screwdrivers have different sizes depending on the length and application and the

material on the handles is soft and comfortable on my hand, yet also keeps it from slipping. While these can be used around

the car (interior trim and that sort of thing), I think most of us will probably use them more often around the house. They

will be used for nearly every project, so a set is worth the investment. A set of pliers, such as the Cobra Ergo is an

incredibly versatile tool because you can use it for automotive work, around the home and even for jewelry repairs. I have

used mine to fix necklaces and earrings, saving money and an unnecessary trip to the jewelry fix-it-up shop. The pliers

provide versatility and adjust gripping power, depending on the strength and grip size that is needed. And, like the

screwdriver set, the non-slip material on the handle is soft and comfortable. The pliers will also look good turning in your

hand. The last item on my list is the 1/4-inch mini composite impact wrench. The best part is that it's small enough to use

in tight quarters (under the dash, etc.) where you really want an impact wrench to work. The 1/4-inch fitting accepts

standard sockets and other attachments. For US $174, put one in your toolbox and keep it at the ready. Courtney Hansen is

host of Spike TV's Power Block.