need to replace tools

[hieronymous]

At some point in the past few months, I've completely misplaced my tools! I have a sinking feeling they may have been accidentally thrown out, or hopefully they are hiding in a case.

Anyway, need to replace - I need to at the very least be able to adjust the saddles of my P-Bass, but also a Baddass II. Should I just get the individual wrenches at a hardware store? Or should I get a multi-tool made for bass? Or even a setup kit? Maybe GrooveTech? I need to order something else from Sweetwater so thought I might get some kind of tool/s thrown into the shipment. Or maybe I should support my local independent music store, though it's 45 minutes away, not sure when I can get over there, and I don't want to wait!

 

[ProfFrink]

For setups at home - individual tools are more comfortable

For on-the-road tweaks - a good multi-tool may be easier to throw in a bag, unless you already travel with a toolbox of some sort.

Supporting your local businesses - always good, but I wouldn't drive 45 minutes just for a small purchase

 

[testing1two]

Having a set of hex wrenches is never a bad thing. The Bondhus 20199 set is the standard.

Another single wrench that's handy to have is a 3/16" stubby wrench. It fits the truss rod on Fender basses with the heel-adjust hex nut without marking up the pickguard.

 

[testing1two]

Although I prefer to have several screwdrivers, a surprisingly useful screwdriver to have in the gig bag is the Music Nomad Octopus.

I now see they will soon be offering a very cool looking kit similar to the StewMac kit:

 

[testing1two]

And the often overlooked tools that are absolutely critical: measuring tools.

1. Automotive feeler gauges (long)
   
2. 6" Machinist Scale or String Action Gauge (hint: get the high contract version that's black with white letters)
   
3. Fret Rocker (Fret Guru makes a very handy fret rocker/action gauge tool)
   
4. Capo (think of it as a third hand when you need to measure neck relief or nut slot depth with your feeler gauges)

 

[hieronymous]

Thank you everyone for the responses so far!

And I realized, the third option should have been "Individual wrenches that you know fit - online"

 

[sissy kathy]

Thank you everyone for the responses so far!

And I realized, the third option should have been "Individual wrenches that you know fit - online"

Too late, I already voted 1 & 3.

I wouldn't get a tool kit. This is a mistake I keep making, and keep regretting. I also wouldn't get a multitool, unless it is purpose built like the Gibson multitool that comes with their instruments; but a leatherman? Nope, no way; they're okay when you're working with bailing wire and duct tape, but when you have the proper material, have the proper tools too.