Every gunsmith's setup needs the essentials, quality punches, a sturdy vise, torque wrench, and proper screwdrivers. Those basics cover most jobs without frustration. Add in good lighting and organization, and work goes smoother. What tools have you found make the biggest difference at your bench?
Must-have gear for the bench
- Thread starter Alpha
- Start date
Virginia 01
Active member
My cell phone camera. I can take very close up pictures of the things that are buried and hard to see. For example, screws that are deep set in long holes in shotgun stocks, or other hard to reach places. Helps identify hex heads vs. Phillips or slotted, etc.
- Joined
- Sep 4, 2025
- Messages
- 16
Thumbs up to Virginia01. Not only can you identify screw heads but I use it for disassembly so that when i am looking at a pile-o-parts after disassembly, I will know from the picture taken beforehand where each part goes......whether that part was above or below or in whole other place. Good advice!
A good choice, and I agree a good vise and torque wrench make a world of difference. I’ve noticed soft jaws especially help keep things clean and damage-free on delicate parts.
Great tip, phone cameras are underrated bench tools. Macro shots reveal hidden screw heads and wear, speeding diagnosis. I also use a clip-on LED and lens for sharper close-ups
Virginia 01
Active member
Good call.
