Reviews

  • Best Laser Measures & Digital Levels for 2025

     

    Updated 10 July 2025 • Prices & availability subject to change

    Need dead-accurate measurements without dragging a tape across the site? These five laser measures and digital levels combine speed, precision and rugged housings built for UK job-sites.

    Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Bosch GLM 50 C Professional Laser Measure (50 m)

    • ±1.5 mm accuracy up to 50 m with real-time angle display.
    • Bluetooth transfer to the Bosch MeasureOn app for quick floor plans.
    • Auto-rotate back-lit screen and IP54 dust/splash protection.

    View on Amazon

    Leica DISTO D2 NEW (100 m)

    • Extended 100 m range with ±1.5 mm precision—great for large halls.
    • Smart-end piece folds out for inside or outside corner measurements.
    • Bluetooth 4.0 sends figures straight to DISTO Plan on iOS/Android.

    View on Amazon

    DeWalt DW088K Self-Levelling Cross-Line Laser

    • Projects bright horizontal & vertical lines for layout and tiling.
    • Self-levels within ±4°; accuracy ±0.3 mm/m.
    • Over-moulded housing rated IP54 plus magnetic pivot bracket.

    View on Amazon

    Stabila 196-2 Electronic Digital Spirit Level (60 cm)

    • Dual digital displays show angle/gradient in %, ° or mm/m.
    • Sound & illuminated vial for hands-free leveling in low light.
    • IP65 sealed—fully washable after a muddy day on site.

    View on Amazon

    Huepar S04CG 4×360° Green-Beam Laser Level

    • Four full 360° planes give floor, wall & ceiling coverage.
    • Class-leading ±3 mm @ 10 m accuracy with smart pendulum lock.
    • Rechargeable Li-ion battery & remote control included.

    View on Amazon

    Laser Level FAQs

    Red vs green beam? Green is up to 4× more visible indoors, especially under bright site lighting, but drains batteries faster.

    Tape measure still needed? Yes—for marking stud centres or when daylight glare washes out the beam beyond spec.

    © 2025 Gear for Grafter • All rights reserved.

     

  • Top Tool Bags & Backpacks for Site Work

    Whether you’re a spark, chippy, plumber or roofer — having a tough, well-organised tool bag makes your workday smoother and safer. Here are some of the best tool bags and backpacks on the market, trusted by tradies across the UK.

    1. Heavy-Duty Tool Backpacks

    Perfect for mobile trades, tool backpacks free up your hands and distribute weight more evenly. Look for models with padded straps and weather resistance.


    🔗 See top-rated tool backpacks on Amazon

    2. Classic Tote-Style Tool Bags

    Great for bench work or van-based setups. These offer open-top access, multiple compartments, and rugged handles.


    🔗 Shop heavy-duty tote tool bags

    3. Tool Belts & Waist Systems

    When you need tools within arm’s reach at all times, a padded tool belt or system is a game-changer. Ideal for roofers, framers, and electricians.


    🔗 Browse top tool belts and pouches

    Tips When Choosing

    • ✅ Prioritise waterproof or weather-resistant materials
    • ✅ Make sure it suits your tool load and trade
    • ✅ Look for reinforced stitching and padded straps

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

     

  • Best Van Storage & Security Solutions



    Best Van Storage & Security Solutions

    Tools are expensive — and so is downtime. Make your van work smarter and safer with these storage and security solutions trusted by tradies across the UK.

    1. Heavy-Duty Lock Boxes

    Steel lock boxes keep your high-value tools safe from theft. Ideal for drills, saws, and batteries.


    🔗 See top-rated van lock boxes

    2. Racking Systems

    Custom van racking helps you maximise space, reduce clutter, and work faster.


    🔗 Check out modular racking kits

    3. Alarm & GPS Tracking

    Protect your investment with a van alarm and tracking system for peace of mind.


    🔗 Browse van alarm and GPS tracker combos

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.


  • All-Weather Workwear Guide for Trades








    All-Weather Workwear Guide for Trades

    Working outdoors means facing unpredictable weather. Whether it’s rain, wind, or cold, having the right gear keeps you safe and comfortable on-site. Here’s our top-rated workwear for all seasons.

    1. Waterproof Work Trousers

    Keep dry and mobile with heavy-duty waterproof trousers designed for tradespeople.


    🔗 View top-rated waterproof trousers on Amazon

    2. Hi-Vis Waterproof Jackets

    Stay seen and dry with reflective, breathable jackets made for tough conditions.


    🔗 Shop hi-vis jackets built for the elements

    3. Layering Essentials

    Base layers and thermal tops help regulate body temperature in fluctuating conditions.


    🔗 Browse thermal base layers for trades

    Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.


  • ☀️ Stay Cool on Site – Best Summer Gear for UK Trades

    Working through a heatwave? Whether you’re roofing, bricklaying or rewiring, don’t let the sun wipe you out. This summer-ready kit helps you stay cool, protected, and productive all shift long.

    1. Portwest Cooling Vest

    💧 Keeps you chilled for up to 8 hours
    Just soak, wring, and wear. Ideal under hi-vis or over a tee. Great for roofers or outdoor site work.
    🔗 Shop now on Amazon

    2. Personal Rechargeable Fan

    🌬️ Clip-on power breeze, wherever you are
    Rechargeable and portable — ideal for site vans, workbenches, or scaff setups. Keeps airflow strong in still air spots.
    🔗 View on Amazon

    3. JCB Lightweight Breathable Hi-Vis Polo

    👕 Hi-vis that won’t roast you alive
    Moisture-wicking fabric with mesh panels to let your body breathe. Still fully EN20471 compliant.
    🔗 Get it here

    4. Snickers Workwear LiteWork Shorts

    🩳 Flexible, tough, and cool to wear
    Stretch fabric and ventilation panels keep you mobile and chill. Big pockets for gear and tools.
    🔗 Shop on Amazon

    Why You Need Summer Site Gear

    • 🔥 Heat Safety – Heat stroke and dehydration are real risks on-site.
    • 💪 Work Comfortably – Don’t let overheating kill your graft or focus.
    • 🛠️ Built for Trades – These aren’t cheap leisure bits — they’re designed for site life.
  • Best Jobsite Radios for On-Site Graft

    Category: Accessories
    Focus: Durable Bluetooth worksite radios


    Why These Radios Matter

    Whether you’re laying bricks or wiring sockets, having a solid jobsite radio keeps morale high and graft flowing. These rugged units are built to take a beating, pump out clear sound, and keep you connected via Bluetooth all shift long.


    Top Picks

    1. DeWalt DCR020 Compact Jobsite Radio

    DeWalt Site Radio

    What it is: Tough little radio that runs on DeWalt 18V batteries or mains
    Why it matters: Great sound in a compact, no-nonsense build

    Shop Now →

    2. Makita DMR115 Bluetooth Radio

    Makita Bluetooth Radio

    What it is: Dust and shower-resistant radio with big bass and DAB+
    Why it matters: Built like a tank with premium audio

    Shop Now →

    3. Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Radio + Charger

    Milwaukee PACKOUT Radio

    What it is: All-in-one speaker, radio, and M18 battery charger
    Why it matters: Loud, clear, and charges your gear too

    Shop Now →


    G4G Verdict

    Every site needs good sounds. These radios don’t just play music — they’re built to work. If your tools can take a knock, your tunes should too.


    Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may earn G4G a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Top Milwaukee Tools Under £100

    Category: Brand Roundups
    Focus: Drills, lights, radios, hand tools


    Why This Kit Matters

    When you’re on-site as a grafter, having the right Milwaukee tools under £100 can seriously level up your efficiency without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a compact drill, a solid site light, or a reliable hand tool — these picks punch well above their price.


    Top Picks

    1. Milwaukee M12 Compact Drill Driver

    What it is: Lightweight cordless drill ideal for tight spaces
    Why it matters: Power and control in one compact tool

    2. Milwaukee Packout Compact Organizer

    What it is: Small parts storage with impact-resistant base
    Why it matters: Keeps fittings, screws, and bits sorted

    3. Milwaukee LED Work Light

    What it is: Durable, battery-powered site light
    Why it matters: Clear visibility anywhere on-site


    G4G Verdict

    These aren’t just budget buys — they’re proper grafter gear. Tools that work as hard as you do, without the hefty price tag.


    Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may earn G4G a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • ⚡ The Electrician’s Essential Tool Kit – Amazon UK Edition

    Every electrician—whether you’re an apprentice or a seasoned sparkie—knows a solid toolkit is your best mate on-site. Here’s a no-nonsense roundup of tools rated must-have by professionals, all under £100 and available on Amazon UK.

    1. 

    1000V VDE Insulated Screwdriver & Pliers Set

     – ~£55

    A proper insulated set that protects up to 1000V—ideal for testing or working near live circuits. Always worth investing here.

    Why it’s essential: Keeps you safe on live work; professional-grade build.

    Click Here 👇

    2. 

    Voltage Tester Pen – Fluke or Similar (NCVT)

     – ~£20–40

    A non-contact voltage tester is a must for safety checks. Even Reddit tradies insist it’s “the most important tool in your kit”  .

    Why it’s essential: Quick, reliable live-wire detection.

    Click Here 👇

    3. 

    Digital Multimeter

     – ~£35–60

    Must-have for testing voltage, current, resistance. Most job sites list this as daily bread-and-butter gear .

    Why it’s essential: Core testing tool—used every single day.

    4. 

    Wire Strippers & Cutters

     – ~£20–40

    Crisp strippers for clean insulation removal, robust side-cutters for cable work. Locally recommended by apprentices and sparkies alike  .

    Why it’s essential: Basic tasks need precision; poor tools will damage wires or your wrist.

    Click Here 👇

    5. 

    Cable Shears/Croppers

     – ~£25–45

    Ideal for cutting sheathed cable and larger cores. Reddit electricians say tools like CK or Knipex are rugged and reliable  .

    Why it’s essential: Saves effort on thick cables during installation.

    Click Here 👇

    6. 

    Insulated Screwdrivers Kit (VDE, magnetic)

     – ~£20

    Extra screwdrivers for tight spots—trusted brands like Wera are well worth it  .

    Why it’s essential: Allows clean, safe work when original bits dull or strip.

    Click Here 👇

    7. 

    Multifunction Outlet & Fuse Tester

     – ~£25–45

    Plug-in testers flag wiring faults fast—these are on the daily tool roster  .

    Why it’s essential: Ensures completed circuits are wired correctly before handover.

    Click Here 👇

    8. 

    Tape Measure (Stanley FatMax / Unilite)

     – ~£10–20

    Essential for panel box layout and run measurements. “FatMax tapes last without weakening”  .

    Why it’s essential: Accurate measuring—no tape fall-in or split blade.

    Click Here 👇

    9. 

    Compact Hammer (Wiha or FatMax)

     – ~£20–30

    Useful for fixing boxes, chasing out boxes—lighter and sleeker than trade hammers.

    Why it’s essential: Multi-use site needs; durable and safe.

    Click Here 👇

    10. 

    LED Head Torch (Petzl)

     – ~£25–30

    Free up both hands in dark spaces. A practical tool, often considered a kit game-changer .

    Why it’s essential: Bright light when working in ceilings, tanks and basements.

    Click here👇

    Tool Function Price (Approx)
    VDE Insulated Screwdriver Set Safe cable screws (1000V protection) £55
    Voltage Tester Pen Detect live voltage quickly £20–£40
    Digital Multimeter Voltage / current / resistance testing £35–£60
    Wire Strippers & Cutters Precision stripping and cable cutting £20–£40
    Cable Shears Clean cuts through sheathed cable £25–£45
    Insulated Screwdrivers (Spare Kit) Backups for tight corners / magnetic tips £20
    Socket & Fuse Tester Test wiring faults & polarity £25–£45
    Tape Measure (Stanley FatMax) Accurate layout & measurements £10–£20
    Compact Hammer Fixing boxes & light duty knocking £20–£30
    LED Head Torch Hands-free lighting in dark spaces £25–£30

    ✅ Why These Tools Matter

    • 🤝 Trade-tested Essentials: All tools trusted by electricians and apprentices for daily use.
    • ✔️ Safety-first: Includes VDE gear and voltage testers—essential for any authorized electrician.
    • 💡 Practical Kit: From measuring and cutting to testing and lighting—everything has a job.
    • 🔗 Affiliate-ready: Perfect for adding Amazon UK links and capturing purchase intent.
  • 🛠️ Top 10 Pro-Grade Tools Under £100 – Built for Site Use 

    No gear for the shed—these are honest, hardwearing tools from top brands that won’t break the bank. Tested, trusted, and ready for daily graft.

    1. **

    Milwaukee M18 FID3‑0 Impact Driver

     – £99.99

    A pro‑level impact driver from Milwaukee’s trusted FUEL line. Compact, reliable, and perfect for fastening duties.

    Best For: Heavy-duty fixings, framing, and repetitive tasks.

    2. 

    Makita TD111DZ Brushless Impact Driver

     – ~£84

    A brushless, compact Makita drill with plenty of power and battery system you can trust  .

    Best For: Light structural drilling, prepping, and tight-space work.

    3. **

    Stanley 65‑Piece Hand Tool Kit

     – £42.03

    Solid, no-fuss hand-tool set with pliers, screwdrivers, tape measure, and more—suitable for van carry or site use.

    Best For: Day-to-day mechanical, fitting, or snagging tasks.

    4. 

    DEWALT DCS355N 18V Multi-Tool (body + accessories)

     – £99

    Highly rated (4.9 ★), and praised by tradies for its power, speed, and ergonomic feel  .

    Best For: Cutting jambs, scraping, plaster board trimming.

    5. 

    Makita 18V Cordless Combi Drill (2×2.0 Ah Batteries + Charger)

     – ~£80

    Reputable Makita kit complete with twin batteries and charger—trade-tested and site-ready  .

    Best For: Daily drilling and screw-driving.

    6. 

    DEWALT ATOMIC 20V Multi-Tool (no battery)

     – ~£95

    Powered by DEWALT batteries (if you already own them), this tool hits up to 21,000 RPM with quick blade changes  .

    Best For: Adding to your 20V system for precision cutting.

    7. 

    Makita B‑65399 Titanium Drill Bit Set –

    Durable 14-piece titanium bit set with hex shank—built to last under harsh use  .

    Best For: Tough drilling into dense timber, metal frameworks.

    8. 

    Stanley FatMax Heavy-Duty Tape Measure (8m)

     – ~£20

    Accurate, durable, and essential for layout work. Not flashy, just practical.

    Best For: Framing, board layouts, and snag packs.

    9. 

    DEWALT DT20705-QZ Oscillating Multi-Tool Accessory Set in

    Premium blade kit that suits Bosch, Stanley, and Makita IXO-style tools, with fast-fit blades  .

    Best For: Cordless multi-tool users upgrading blade quality.

    10. 

    Milwaukee Shockwave Compact Bit 32 Piece Torx Set 4932471586, Set of 32

    Preferred by pros for fasteners in tough materials; durable and built to last.

    Best For: Impact drivers and heavy-duty fastening.

  • 🔪 

    Top 5 Saws for Serious On-Site Cutting (2025)

    Written for Gear for Grafter (G4G)

    When you’re grafting on-site, you need saws that don’t just cut — they tear through timber, steel, plasterboard, and more without choking up or dying out. These 5 picks are built to last and will become staples in any serious builder’s setup.

    1. DeWalt DCS570N-XJ 18V XR Circular Saw

    💥 Best for Straight, Powerful Cuts

    This beast flies through timber with a 184mm blade and a brushless motor that delivers over 5,000 RPM. Ideal for roofing, framework, and floorboarding.

    • Cordless freedom with XR battery system
    • 65mm max cutting depth at 90°
    • Reliable and accurate


    2. Makita DJR187Z 18V LXT Reciprocating Saw

    ⚙️ Best for Demolition & Quick Cuts

    Built like a tank. This recip saw is perfect for cutting out old frames, slicing pipes, or getting through plasterboard and nails in seconds.

    • Tool-less blade change
    • Two-speed setting (0–2,800 strokes/min)
    • Anti-vibration tech for better comfort

    3. Milwaukee M18 FUEL ONE-KEY 190mm Circular Saw

    🚀 Best High-End Circular Saw

    If you want power and tech, this one’s top tier. Connect it to the ONE-KEY app for tracking, settings, and diagnostics.

    • 5,800 RPM brushless motor
    • Magnesium shoe & rafter hook
    • Cuts up to 66mm deep

    4. Bosch GCM18V-216 Mitre Saw

    🔧 Best for Precision Cuts

    Need clean angles on skirting, battening, or cladding? This sliding mitre saw is compact, cordless, and powerful enough for everyday jobs.

    • 216mm blade size
    • Double bevel cuts
    • Lightweight for easy van loading

    5. Evolution R210CMS Multi-Material Saw

    💰 Best Budget Saw for Mixed Cuts

    Affordable, reliable, and it slices through wood, plastic, and metal without changing blades — ideal for odd jobs or backup saw use.

    • 1200W motor
    • 0–45° bevel cut range
    • Compact and solid build

    👷‍♂️ Final Thoughts from G4G

    Whether you’re cutting roofing battens or ripping through studs, these saws offer the best balance of power, portability, and price in 2025. Stick with tools that back your graft.