Evolution of Tools Over the Past 100 Years (1925–2025)
- Yolandi Botes
- May 30
- 15 min read
Early 20th Century (1920s–1940s) From Hand Tools to Electrification
In the 1920s, hand tools (hammers, wrenches, hand saws, screwdrivers, etc.) had already evolved over centuries, but were generally made of forged steel with wooden handles. Around this time, major leaps were happening in power tools. Electricity was being harnessed to reduce manual labor. By 1916, the first portable electric drill (with a pistol-grip and trigger) had been invented by Black & Decker.
This drill was revolutionary, for the first time, one person could bore holes with a handheld electric tool rather than a hand crank. By the mid-1920s, other electric tools emerged:
for example, in 1924 a company called Skil introduced the first portable circular saw, a lightweight electric saw using worm-drive gears.
These early power tools were game-changers on job sites, greatly increasing productivity. Meanwhile, hand tool design also improved in this era. New alloys like chrome-vanadium steel were introduced in the 1930s, making wrenches and screwdrivers tougher and more wear-resistant (earlier tools were often plain carbon steel that could rust or dull).
Tool companies like Stanley and Craftsman began mass-producing high-quality hand tools for professionals and homeowners, with innovations like better grip designs and the first ratcheting wrench mechanisms. In 1923, Raymond DeWalt invented the radial arm saw, a large stationary power saw that increased woodworking efficiency on job sites.
And in 1924, Milwaukee Tool (founded by A.H. Petersen) developed the “Hole-Shooter,” the first lightweight one-handed drill for use in Ford’s automotive assembly lines. These milestones ushered in a new age, by 1940, many workshops had a mix of reliable hand tools and a few electric aids (drills, grinders, jig saws), though hand tools remained essential and dominant for finer work.
World War II (1939–1945) accelerated tool innovation further. Wartime manufacturing demanded faster, more efficient tools, and new materials. For instance, the German company Bosch introduced the first electropneumatic hammer drill in 1932, which could both rotate and hammer to drill into concrete.
This was a precursor to the modern rotary hammer used in construction. The war also spurred development of better steels and mass production techniques, after the war, these advancements flowed into consumer tools. By the late 1940s, companies began marketing power tools to homeowners for DIY projects (e.g., Black & Decker’s Home Utility line launched in 1946, bringing portable drills and sanders into ordinary households).
In summary, the first part of the 20th century transformed tools from purely muscle-powered hand implements to electrically-driven devices, setting the stage for broader adoption.
Mid-Century (1950s–1960s): Mass Adoption, New Materials, and Corded Power
The post-WWII economic boom saw tool use skyrocket in both industry and at home. In the 1950s and 60s, owning a set of tools and doing home improvements became more common (think of the rise of suburbia and the DIY homeowner). Hand tools became more ergonomic, for example, plastic and rubber began replacing wood on tool handles for better grip and insulation. New materials made tools safer and lighter.
A significant development was the use of high-impact plastics and fiberglass in power tool bodies. Up until the late 1950s, power tools had mostly all-metal housings (which were durable but heavy and could be dangerous if electrics faulted). In 1957, Bosch set a milestone by releasing a hammer drill with a fiberglass-reinforced plastic housing, the first power tool to use such a material.
This change meant drills and saws became lighter and electrically safer (plastic doesn’t conduct electricity, so there was less risk of shock if wiring failed). Soon after, the entire industry followed suit, and by the 1960s most power tools featured rugged plastic or composite housings instead of cast metal.
During this era, corded electric tools truly proliferated. Companies like Makita (Japan) and Bosch (Germany) expanded globally, while American brands like Black & Decker, DeWalt, and Milwaukee introduced new models yearly. Electric drills became common, often 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch chuck for home use, and circular saws, jigsaws, routers, and sanders were introduced or improved for consumers.
By the 1960s, a homeowner could buy a reasonably affordable power drill and skillsaw for DIY projects. In fact, the millionth Black & Decker home utility drill rolled off the assembly line in 1951, attesting to their popularity. Another major breakthrough of the 1960s was the inception of cordless tools. In 1961, Black & Decker unveiled the world’s first cordless electric drill, powered by a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery.
Although primitive by today’s standards (it had limited power and battery life), this cordless drill was a glimpse of the future – a tool not tethered by a power cord. Initially aimed at light-duty tasks, it gave DIYers and professionals the freedom to work away from outlets. Black & Decker quickly followed in 1962 with a cordless outdoor tool (cordless hedge trimmer), taking “the cord out of yard work”.
These early cordless tools were made possible by compact NiCd rechargeable batteries, a technology borrowed from the electronics of the time. While NiCd batteries had drawbacks (they were heavy for the power provided and had “memory effect” issues), they marked the start of a cordless revolution. Alongside cordless innovation, inventors and companies refined hand tools with new ideas. For instance, the locking pliers (Vise-Grip) had been invented back in the 1920s, but by mid-century they were a toolbox staple, allowing users to clamp and hold with an adjustable vise-like grip.
Socket wrench sets became widely available, these used interchangeable sockets and a ratchet handle to turn nuts and bolts efficiently, a big improvement over fixed-size wrenches. Materials like hardened high-carbon steel and chrome plating became standard, meaning tools lasted longer without rusting. In the late 1960s, insulated handle tools (rated for electrical work) became more common, protecting electricians from shocks. Overall, the 1950s and 60s cemented the transition from purely hand-powered work to electric power-assisted work for many tasks, and introduced materials that still define tool design today.
Late 20th Century (1970s–1980s): The Cordless Revolution Grows and Improved Tool Tech
The 1970s and 1980s saw rapid evolution in both power and hand tools, with many “firsts” and improvements that modernized the toolbox. A highlight of this period is the rise of cordless tools from novelty to necessity. While Black & Decker pioneered cordless in the ’60s, it was in the late ’70s and ’80s that battery tools became more viable for mainstream use.
Companies continued to refine NiCd battery technology and tool design:
1978: Makita (in Japan) launched their first battery-powered drill, the 6500D 7.2V cordless drill, marking their entry into cordless tools. This and similar models from other brands started appearing in contractors’ kits, albeit primarily for light-duty tasks.
1980s: Cordless drills and screwdrivers grew in popularity as battery capacity improved. By the mid-1980s, cordless screwdrivers, drill/drivers, and even small saws were available. In 1984, Bosch introduced one of the first cordless hammer drills (combining rotary drilling and hammering for masonry), showing that even heavier-duty tasks were inching into the cordless realm. Still, corded tools remained king for high power needs (like large saws or sustained heavy drilling) due to battery limits at the time.
In these decades, major tool companies expanded globally and pushed innovation. New competitors and brands emerged, and existing ones like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, Milwaukee, Hilti, Ryobi and others each sought to differentiate their products: Higher Power and Specialization: Electric motors were improved to deliver more torque and RPM, allowing tools like the reciprocating saw (e.g., Milwaukee’s Sawzall) to become must-haves for demolition work.
Specialized tools like powered miter saws and angle grinders became common on job sites and in workshops. Hilti and others refined rotary hammer drills with SDS (Slotted Drive System) bits in the 1970s, which made bit changes easy and improved drilling performance in concrete.
Tool Materials: The late 20th century introduced carbide-tipped blades and bits. For instance, circular saw blades and drill bits started featuring tungsten-carbide tips, massively extending their life and cutting ability. High-speed steel and cobalt alloys were used for drill bits that could cut through tougher metals. In hand tools, we saw the introduction of things like spring-steel tape measures (which could extend rigidly) and better handle materials (for example, Stanley’s “Dynagrip” rubberized handles on screwdrivers in the 1980s for comfort and slip resistance).
Safety and Ergonomics: Tool design increasingly focused on safety. Blade guards, two-handed switches on dangerous tools, and better insulation became standard. Ergonomics also became a selling point, handles were shaped for the human grip, tools were balanced to reduce fatigue, and vibration-reduction features started appearing (for example, rubber motor mounts or better bearings to cut down the vibration in drills and sanders).
By 1980, the typical toolbox of a tradesperson or serious DIY enthusiast contained a mix of classic hand tools and modern power tools. One might have a set of screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, a handsaw and hammer (hand tools hadn’t changed fundamentally, though quality improved), alongside a corded electric drill, a jigsaw, perhaps a circular saw or sander, and if on the cutting edge, a cordless drill/screwdriver for convenience. The cordless revolution was well underway, but the true game-changing advancements in battery tech were yet to come in the next decades.
Turn of the Century (1990s–2000s): New Battery Technology and Digital Beginnings
As the 20th century ended and the 21st began, tools underwent another leap forward driven by the digital age and advanced battery materials. The 1990s continued the trend of expanding cordless tool lineups. In 1992, for example, Black & Decker introduced the VersaPak system an interchangeable battery pack system for multiple small tools (flashlights, screwdrivers, etc.), showing the move toward battery platform ecosystems.
Around the same time, Makita, DeWalt, and others were offering 9.6V, 12V, even 14.4V cordless drills with improved NiCd batteries. DeWalt (which Black & Decker had acquired and relaunched as a professional brand in the early ’90s) came out with a full line of cordless power tools in 1996, keyed by 14.4V and 18V drill/drivers, saws, and more, all using a common battery. This concept of a family of cordless tools running on the same battery pack became a standard in the industry, greatly increasing the convenience of cordless systems.
However, the biggest game-changer was the advent of new battery chemistry – the lithium-ion battery. By the early 2000s, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, already revolutionizing cell phones and laptops, made their way into power tools. 2005 is a landmark year: Milwaukee introduced the first lithium-ion battery system for power tools (their 28V “V28” series). This was built on earlier successes like Bosch’s 2003 introduction of the Ixo, a small Li-ion cordless screwdriver (often cited as the first Li-ion consumer power tool).
Lithium-ion technology was transformative: Li-ion batteries pack higher energy density, meaning more power and run-time in a lighter package. They also don’t suffer from memory effect and can be charged more flexibly. The result was that by the late 2000s, new cordless tools could be more powerful and yet lighter than their NiCd predecessors. Tools that previously were impractical as cordless (like heavy circular saws, angle grinders, rotary hammers) could now be cut loose from cords, because Li-ion provided sufficient power without making the tool too heavy.
Parallel to battery improvements, the 2000s saw the rise of electronics and “smart” features in tools. The introduction of brushless motors in power tools is one such innovation. Brushless DC motors, enabled by compact electronic controllers, started appearing in cordless tools around the mid-2000s (early examples in 2004–2005 in some Makita and Milwaukee models). Brushless motors have no carbon brushes rubbing inside, which means less friction, higher efficiency, and longer motor life. They also allow finer control via electronics.
By the 2010s, brushless technology became common in drills, impact drivers, and saws, significantly boosting performance and battery life. Additionally, digital technology started creeping into tool design and usage. Laser guides were added to saws (for straight cuts) and electronic speed controls and sensors were built into tools to improve precision and safety. For example, some high-end drills got electronic clutches (no more mechanical clicking only, the motor controller can cut power when a set torque is reached, improving consistency).
On the hand tool side, digital measuring tools gained popularity: laser distance measurers, digital levels and inclinometers, and electronic stud finders became common items by the 2000s. By 2005–2010, a professional’s toolkit likely included multiple Li-ion cordless tools (drills, impact drivers, a cordless circular saw or reciprocating saw, etc.), which could rival corded tools in power. Corded tools certainly didn’t disappear, they remain lighter for continuous use (no batteries), but the convenience of cordless saw massive adoption.
Traditional hand tools were still indispensable for many tasks, but even some hand tools gained power assistance (e.g., power-assisted ratchets or electric screwdrivers for repetitive tasks).
2010s–2020s: Smart Tools, Connectivity, and Modern Innovations
In the last 15 years, tool evolution has entered the high-tech realm. The emphasis has been on smart technology, connectivity, and further improving materials for durability and light weight. Here are some defining trends of the 2010s and early 2020s:
Smart & Connected Tools: Top tool manufacturers introduced Bluetooth-connected tools and inventory apps. In 2015, Milwaukee launched ONE-KEY™, the first digital platform for tools, which connects tools to a smartphone app.
Through such apps, users can track their tool’s location (helpful for theft prevention), customize tool settings (for example, set a specific torque on an impact wrench, or a speed on a drill), and log tool usage data. Soon after, other brands like DeWalt (Tool Connect) and Bosch followed with their own smart tool systems. By late 2010s, you could get a drill or saw that you can tune via your phone – truly a new frontier compared to the simple corded drills of the past. While not every DIYer needs Bluetooth in a drill, for large job sites and tool fleets this has become a valuable way to manage equipment.
Battery Platforms & Improvements: Lithium-ion batteries became the universal standard in this period, and they’ve been continually improved. We’ve seen higher capacity batteries (e.g., 5Ah, 9Ah, even 12Ah batteries for long run-time), as well as faster charging systems. Some brands introduced dual-battery tools (e.g., 36V tools running on two 18V batteries) to tackle heavy-duty jobs without requiring a completely new battery platform. Additionally, battery management electronics ensure safe, efficient charging and discharging (preventing overheat or over-discharge).
By 2025, some cordless tools even rival gas-powered equipment (e.g., battery chainsaws and lawnmowers are now viable alternatives to petrol ones, thanks to advanced brushless motors and Li-ion packs).
Further Motor and Power Electronics Advances: Brushless motors are now common in not just drills but also lawn/garden tools, bikes, etc. They’ve allowed features like electronic brakes on grinders and saws (the motor can stop almost instantly for safety once the trigger is released), and constant speed control (the tool’s electronics can adjust power to maintain RPM under load). All of this is thanks to on-board microcontrollers that monitor tool performance in real time. Essentially, power tools have become smart devices with firmware, not unlike small appliances or gadgets.
Lighter, Stronger Materials: Tool housings now use advanced composites, high-grade plastics, and even magnesium or aluminum alloys for strength-to-weight optimization (for example, many circular saws use magnesium alloy guards and bases to reduce weight while maintaining strength). Carbon fiber has even been used in limited cases (e.g., some high-end hammer handles or tripod levels) to reduce weight.
On hand tools, new steel formulations and coatings (like black oxide, anti-corrosion plating, or even diamond coatings on screwdriver tips) have made them tougher and more precise. Modern hand tools also often feature multi-functionality – e.g., a single screwdriver with interchangeable bits, or a multi-tool that packs pliers, knife, screwdrivers in one (pioneered by Tim Leatherman in the 1980s, but now ubiquitous).
Safety Innovations: In recent years, there’s been focus on safety tech. A notable example is the SawStop table saw (early 2000s) which can detect human flesh contact with the blade and stop it in milliseconds, an electronic safety marvel that has saved many fingers. While that’s a stationary tool example, it shows how digital tech can make tools safer. Many tools now also have anti-kickback sensors (a drill might cut power if the bit binds and the tool starts to twist violently) and improved dust collection for better health on the job.
From 1925 to 2025, the journey of tools has been from simple, heavy hand tools and rudimentary corded machines to light, powerful, computer-enhanced tools. Modern professionals and hobbyists have an incredible arsenal at their disposal, unimaginable a century ago. Yet, it’s worth noting that many basic designs (the claw hammer, the wrench, the handsaw) are still with us, refined but fundamentally recognizable, a testament to their timeless utility.
Essential Tools for a Modern Toolbox (Home DIY and Maintenance)
After a century of innovations, what are the must-have tools that a typical homeowner or DIY enthusiast should have in 2025? Below is a list of essential tools (a mix of hand and power tools) that make up a well-rounded modern toolbox:
Claw Hammer: The classic 16oz (or thereabout) hammer with a flat face for driving nails and a claw for pulling nails. Indispensable for any kind of carpentry, hanging pictures, minor demolitions, etc.
Screwdriver Set: A set of quality screwdrivers, including both flat-head (slotted) and Phillips head in various sizes. These are needed for assembling furniture, installing hardware, and countless small fixes. Many people opt for a multi-bit screwdriver where one handle has interchangeable bits, including Phillips, slotted, Torx, and hex bits to fit a variety of screws.
Pliers (Assorted): At minimum, have a pair of combination (linesman) pliers for gripping and cutting wires, a needle-nose pliers for precision work in tight spaces, and a set of adjustable pliers (like Channel-lock or water-pump pliers) for grabbing larger objects like pipes. Pliers are your extra “fingers” for gripping, twisting, and cutting tasks.
Adjustable Wrench (Crescent Wrench): Instead of a full wrench set, an adjustable spanner (or two, in different sizes) can loosen or tighten various nuts and bolts. It’s versatile for plumbing connections, furniture assembly, and bicycle repairs. For more advanced DIY, a set of combination wrenches or a ratchet-and-socket set is great, but an 8-inch adjustable wrench covers many needs.
Tape Measure: A 5m (16ft) or longer tape measure with a locking feature. Whether you’re measuring a room for new furniture, cutting lumber, or centering a picture on a wall, a reliable tape measure is a must.
Level: A spirit level, about 60cm (2 feet) long or even a smaller torpedo level, to ensure things are straight and level. This is critical for hanging shelves, aligning frames, or any installation that needs to be horizontal or vertical. Modern option: some use laser levels for hands-free leveling over long distances, but a classic bubble level is usually sufficient for most home tasks.
Utility Knife (Box Cutter): A retractable utility knife for cutting cardboard, trimming plastic, scoring drywall, and a multitude of cutting chores. Extra blades are essential – sharp blades make work easier and safer.
Cordless Drill/Driver: Perhaps the single most useful power tool for a homeowner. A cordless drill (12V or 18V lithium-ion) with a variable speed trigger and a clutch can drill holes and drive screws with ease. It saves tremendous time and effort compared to manual screwdrivers. Include a set of drill bits (for wood, metal, and masonry) and screwdriver bits. Modern cordless drills are often compact and have enough power for drilling into wood studs, metal brackets, or concrete with proper bits. They can also serve as a power screwdriver for assembling everything from cabinets to kids’ toys.
Allen Key (Hex Key) Set: Many flat-pack furniture and appliances use hexagonal socket screws. An Allen wrench set (typically in metric and imperial sizes) is essential for assembling furniture, tightening towel bars, and working on bicycles or electronics.
Handsaw: Even with power saws available, a handsaw (either a panel saw for wood, or a hacksaw for metal/plastic) is useful for quick cuts where precision power tools aren’t needed. A small hacksaw can cut metal pipes, bolts, or PVC, while a general-purpose wood saw can trim lumber or branches in a pinch.
Power Jigsaw or Circular Saw: For more involved DIY projects (building shelves, cutting plywood, etc.), a power saw is extremely handy. A jigsaw is a versatile choice for beginners – it can cut straight or curved lines in wood and is relatively safe and easy to handle. A circular saw is great for quick straight cuts in lumber or sheet goods. If one is not comfortable with larger saws, even a small multifunction oscillating tool with a saw blade can do plunge cuts or trim door bottoms. Depending on the homeowner’s comfort, at least one power cutting tool should be in the arsenal for those bigger jobs.
Sandpaper and Files: Not exactly “tools” with handles or power cords, but a variety of sandpaper sheets (for smoothing wood, metal, patching walls) and perhaps a couple of files for metal smoothing are good to have. Often, a small sanding block or a sanding attachment for the drill can help in refinishing tasks.
Flashlight or Work Light: A good flashlight or a portable work light is essential for illuminating dim work areas, whether you’re under the sink fixing a leak or checking the attic. Many modern work lights are cordless (battery-powered, sometimes using the same batteries as power tools) and have LEDs for bright, efficient lighting.
Safety Gear: No toolbox is complete without safety essentials: a pair of safety glasses, work gloves, and hearing protection (ear plugs or earmuffs) if using loud power tools. Also, a dust mask or respirator is wise for dusty tasks or painting. These ensure you can use your tools safely.
Bonus Modern Gadgets: Depending on one’s needs, there are a few high-tech additions that are becoming popular. A stud finder helps locate wall studs (or live wires) when drilling into walls, very useful for safely hanging heavy items. A laser distance measurer can quickly measure room dimensions or distances by laser, a modern complement to the tape measure. And for those inclined, a multimeter (for electrical testing) is very handy for diagnosing electrical issues or installing new light fixtures safely.
With the above toolkit, most common home maintenance and DIY tasks can be tackled. From fixing a leaky faucet (pliers, wrench) to assembling a bookshelf (screwdrivers, drill) to hanging curtains (drill, level, screwdriver) or building a simple treehouse (saws, hammer, drill, level), these tools have you covered. Today’s tools are the product of 100 years of evolution, they’re more durable, easier to use, and more capable than ever.
Equipped with a modern toolbox, a homeowner in 2025 can accomplish projects with a confidence and efficiency that would amaze someone in 1925. In summary, the past century has transformed tool technology beyond recognition, but the goal remains the same: to make work easier, safer, and more efficient.
Whether you’re protecting your winter garden in Potchefstroom or drilling holes with a state-of-the-art cordless driver, using the right tool for the job, and understanding how it evolved, gives an appreciation for human ingenuity and the progress of practical science in our daily lives.
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