Having the right tool is critical in any job, but when you need to have a certain amount of pressure on a part, the right torque tool becomes essential. Finding the right torque tools for the job requires a little bit of planning and some bargain shopping. You want to find a company that not only offers a quality product, but will stand behind the product by offering repairs and recalibration as needed.

When you buy torque tools, there are a few things that you need to be aware of. If a torque tool supplier fails to explain the tool in detail, or won't share with you the warranty program, find another company that will. They should also openly discuss things with you such as:

1. Price of each torque tool for sale

2. Capabilities, including the amount of torque the tool can handle

3. Add-on supplies and equipment that comes with each torque tool

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find torque tool distributors that have nothing but torque tools for sale

Many home-improvement chains have become suppliers of torque tools, but that doesn't mean that they're experts in the field. Torque tools are specialized equipment that must be handled just so, and an inexperienced salesman can not only waste your money but cause you to risk the lives of your mechanics and your clients. So only buy from a company that deals with nothing but torque tools.

I recommend: Look for a torque tool supplier that specializes in just torque tools. TorqLite and McCANN Equipment sell only torque tools and related products, so you don't have to worry about an inexperienced salesman selling you the wrong product for your business.

Look for torque tool suppliers that can also repair broken torque tools

Anyone can become a torque tool distributor, so make the extra effort to find a company that can not only sell you the product but service it as well. Many companies will repair broken tools for their customers at little or no charge, which saves you money and protects your investment. Your supplier should also help you recalibrate the tool at set intervals, which is essential for proper functioning.

I recommend: Buy from companies like Team Torque and Stanley Proto, which can not only outfit you with the best part, but also take it back and repair it should problems arise. The only way to ensure that you're getting the best tools on the market is to deal with a company that stands behind its products.

Compare prices of the various torque tools for sale

There are dozens of torque tools on the market, and it's easy to get overwhelmed and buy from the first website that offers the product you're looking for. But to protect your bottom line, it's important to look at several different sites to make sure that you get a good price. Remember to factor in shipping as well, as some torque tools can be quite bulky and cost a lot to ship.

I recommend: Browse through the catalogs of several suppliers to get an idea of the prices of certain items. MSC Industrial Supply lists its prices directly on the website, so it's easy to see what fits your budget. Mountz also has an extensive catalog, but you'll have to call to get prices on its products.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most torque tool manufacturers will recalibrate your tools for you for a small fee to keep them running at peak performance.