Every DIY project starts with optimism. The kind of optimism that sees you through the planning stages, into the tool shop buying supplies, and to booking a long weekend with nothing else on but to tackle the task at hand.
Then, the reality check comes — the blunt saw, the drill bits that snap, and the online order that was mysteriously out of stock.
Sure, you can buy tools anywhere, but getting the good tools is what’s going to set your DIY project apart. And it’s not just good tools you need in your corner. You need good suppliers who can deliver what you need when you need it, so when (sorry if) things do go wrong, you have someone in your corner helping you to get back on track.
This is where a touch of personal service comes into the picture. There might be a slew of online tool operators, but when it comes to hardware shopping, you need someone who can tell you which blade fits which jigsaw and to show you which brand will last and you can rely on.
But in an age of online orders and same-day pick up, few retailers have managed to keep that old-school reliability alive despite moving fully online. Whether you’re a weekend tinkerer or deep into full-scale renovations, these tool shops stand out for their mix of quality service and straight-talking value.
Here are five of the best places for DIYers to buy tools in 2025.
Carey Tools — Best for Expert Advice and Reliable Nationwide Delivery
For more than six decades, Carey Tools has been Ireland’s quiet benchmark for how tool shops should be run. Established in 1960 in Cork City, this family-run business built its reputation the traditional way — through service consistency and deep product knowledge.
Today, it is one of Ireland’s largest independent suppliers, offering over 27,000 products from more than 250 leading brands.
This is everything from power tools to electrical equipment and plumbing supplies to garden gear and safety wear. The range is broad, but the approach hasn’t changed. It’s still, at heart, a company where custom service feels personal, not automated.
Every product is sourced through official distributors, so there’s no guessing about quality. The website is organised clearly by trade or brand, and the stock isn’t cluttered with filler lines or obscure information.
Orders over €75 ship free and nationwide delivery across Ireland typically lands within a few working days.
But what makes Carey tools really stand out is its mix of expertise and reliability. For professionals, it’s a one-stop shop: for home improvers, a trustworthy guide through the confusing world of tool specs and product jargon.
Screwfix – Best for Everyday Tools and Click and Collect Convenience
Screwfix is somewhat of a staple for British and Irish DIY culture — the reliable stop between planning and getting started. The brand’s biggest strength is convenience. With hundreds of branches across the UK and Ireland, same-day click and collect means the tool you forgot will be with you in hours.
The website mirrors the store experience exactly: fast, practical, and no nonsense. Product information is clear, reviews are plentiful, and there’s always a steady flow of offers to keep things competitive.
With a range spanning simple hand tools to trade-rated power gear and an endless supply of consumables, you’ll find everything you need.
While Screwfix is primarily aimed at professionals, its accessibility has made it a DIY favourite.
Toolstation – Best for Budget-Friendly Essentials
If Screwfix is the brand name everyone knows, Toolstation is the quiet achiever sitting right beside it. The chain has steadily grown its reputation by offering almost identical ranges at slightly sharper prices.
But be warned, it’s not a place for growing — it’s the kind of place you go when you already know what you need and want it fast. Online, the catalogue covers plumbing, electrical, paint, and building essentials. It’s practicality over presentation, but the regular promotions and offers make it ideal for anyone looking to refresh their toolkit or restock on basics.
But one thing Toolstation does have going for it is its dependability. Orders placed online usually arrive within a few days, and pick up is available at hundreds of branches across the UK.
Machine Mart – Best for Heavy Duty DIY and Workshop Gear
Every DIYer hits that point where basic tools don’t cut it anymore. Enter Machine Mart. It’s one of the few stores catering to those ready to take their setup to the next level — from compact power tools to full workshop machinery, they do it all.
The company’s own Clark range has become something of an institution, covering everything from compressors and welders to automotive gear and generators.
The prices, however, are accessible enough for hobbyists but serious enough for small trades.
One of the standout features of the Machine Mart website is that it is specification-heavy; it’s got all the technical detail you need to make the right decisions. No sales fluff, just what you need to know.
Now, delivery can be a little longer, especially for larger equipment or machinery, but for those needing something extra, it’s a good bet.
Toolden – Best for Online Variety and Fast Delivery
Toolden is a relative newcomer to the space, but it’s growing fast. Based in the UK, this online retailer has earned a reputation for variety and fast turnaround. Deliveries are offered to mainland UK and Ireland, and all orders are dispatched within 2-3 working days.
The website is crisp, clean, and offers a seamless and easy experience, meaning you can find what you want quickly and source your favourite brands like Bosch, DeWalt, Makita and Milwaukee.
Something partially appreciated by DIYers and professionals alike is the clear pricing and availability, meaning you know what you’re paying with and without VAT, and whether or not the item is in stock, so there’s no disappointment.
Toolden bridges the gaps between local store availability and big brand convenience and this is what makes it ideal for modern home improvers.
Final Thoughts
Good tools shouldn’t be hard to buy whether you’re dipping your toes into the world of DIY or a seasoned professional. The right shop makes it easy — fair prices, gear that lasts and people who know what they’re talking about.
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