I use one of these smaller bags for keeping smaller hand tools organized. The pockets are good for bits and accessories.

When you have lots of nuts and bolts, a good socket set is a lifesaver. Make sure the case is solid, and the markings on the sockets are easy to read. A separate set of deep sockets is also helpful.

When sockets or box wrenches won't grip, you'll need a hefty adjustable wrench. Longer ones provide more torque to loosen stubborn fasteners.

For your larger Torx screws, you'll want the torque of a dedicated driver.

A full set of Allen wrenches is essential. Nearly all of my structures are assembled with socket-head screws. Inch and metric, with ball ends for getting into tight spaces. If you can afford it, an additional set of straight drivers (no ball end) will give you the maximum torque to loosen stubborn fasteners without stripping the sockets.

A nut driver set speeds assembly of lots of hex bolts in tight quarters. Get one with a deep hole in the shank to clear long bolts.

You'll need a solid ball pein hammer for heavy hitting, a 24 oz model with a fiberglass handle is ideal. Never use a claw or ripping hammer for pounding on punches, chisels, or other metal components, they just aren't up for it.

For cutting thick wire and other hard components, you'll want a pair of solid diagonal wire cutters. These Channellocks have served me well.

For gripping and bending, a pair of Irwin Vise Grip locking pliers can't be beat. I have them in both long nose and curved jaw varieties. The ones with soft grips are nicer on the hands.

The Dewalt impact driver is an invaluable tool for loosening and tightening bolts when you can't use a large breaker bar and a socket. Once a novelty, these compact yet powerful tools are becoming fairly common.

When I want a leather work glove, these pigskin gloves by CAT have always been my favorite. They're brightly colored, so you can always find them in your kit.