Tool list .rookie team

[Joe G.]

Absolute bare bones tool list. You can build a great robot with just these tools, judicious use of COTS parts, consumables like tape/zip ties, and some creativity:

-Safety glasses
-Allen wrench set. Probably the most important item to have multiples of as they get used in parallel a lot and go missing easily, especially just buying bulk of sizes you use all the time. Must-have sizes for my team's standard fasteners of choice are 5/32" and 3/32".
-Adjustable wrenches
-Hacksaw
-A few C-clamps
-Hammer
-Vice grips
-Wire stripper/cutter/crimper
-Cordless drill, bits
-Files
-Shop-Vac
-Carpenter's Square, rulers, tape measures, or other measuring devices.

Not quite vital, but still extremely important:
-Socket wrench set
-Soldering iron
-Jigsaw (or tin snips, in a pinch)
-Rivet gun (if using rivets, which I recommend especially if you're on a budget)
-Chain break (if using chain)
-Multimeter
-Bench vice
-Tap and Die set
-Dremel tool, grinding bits and cutting wheels
-Staple gun (for bumpers)

Pricier or less vital, but super great to have if you can get them. Not a complete list by any stretch:
-Bandsaw
-Drill press
-Bench grinder
-Benchtop lathe
-Miter saw and appropriate blades
-Calipers
-Heat gun
-Air powered rivet gun

Originally Posted by Billfred

1) Table saw. Bumpers are going to be used next year, and historically that means the ability to cut 5" wide pieces of 3/4" plywood.

Or you can just have the people at Home Depot rip the wood to 5" when you initially buy it.