Homesteading is about self-sufficiency, from growing your own food to building and repairing things around your land. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the right tools make all the difference. You probably already have the basics—shovels, hammers, maybe a good saw—but there are some less obvious tools that can completely transform how efficiently you work.
These tools are not just convenient; they save time, energy, and, in many cases, money. Here are 12 essential tools I use that you might not have realized you needed until now.
Broadfork
The broadfork is an absolute game-changer when it comes to preparing garden beds. Unlike a tiller, which can tear up the soil and disrupt all the beneficial organisms, a broadfork loosens soil deeply without disturbing its structure. This is key to improving soil health and making it easier for roots to grow. If you’re serious about gardening and want to keep your soil in great shape, this tool is a must.
Solar-Powered Generator
One of the best investments I made for my homestead was a solar-powered generator. Having a backup power source is crucial, especially if you’re off-grid or prepping for potential emergencies. A solar generator is eco-friendly, requires very little maintenance, and keeps essential devices running when the grid goes down. For me, knowing I have power when I need it brings a lot of peace of mind.
Draw Knife
A draw knife is one of those old-school tools that comes in handy more often than you’d think. Whether you’re stripping bark, shaping wood, or debarking logs for a project, this tool lets you do it all with precision and control. I’ve used mine for everything from making fences to crafting rustic furniture, and it’s incredibly satisfying to work with.
Hori Hori Knife
The hori hori knife is my go-to tool in the garden. It’s a hybrid between a trowel and a knife, and you can use it to dig, cut through roots, or even measure planting depth. It’s sturdy and versatile, perfect for transplanting, weeding, and general garden work. Once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
Chicken Plucker
If you raise chickens for meat, a chicken plucker can save you an incredible amount of time and effort. Hand-plucking birds is tedious, but a chicken plucker does the job in minutes. It might feel like a luxury tool, but if you’re processing multiple birds, it quickly becomes essential. For anyone who’s serious about raising poultry, this tool is a huge time-saver.
Fence Post Driver
Fencing is critical for most homesteads, but installing posts can be grueling. A fence post driver makes the job much easier by allowing you to drive posts into the ground without having to dig holes or use concrete. It’s efficient and makes setting up or repairing fences a lot less exhausting.
Scythe
The scythe may seem like something from the past, but this tool is incredibly effective for cutting tall grass, clearing brush, or harvesting hay. It’s quiet, requires no fuel, and gives you a decent workout in the process. When you don’t want the hassle of maintaining a gas-powered tool or just need something simple, a scythe gets the job done.
Root Cellar Thermometer
If you store your harvest in a root cellar, keeping an eye on temperature and humidity is crucial. A root cellar thermometer is a small investment that helps ensure your produce lasts as long as possible. Maintaining the right conditions can make the difference between a well-preserved stash and a spoiled one. This tool gives me peace of mind knowing my food stores are safe.
Seed Saving Kit
A good seed-saving kit is essential if you’re aiming for long-term garden sustainability. It’s easy to start saving seeds from your best crops, but having a system in place—like a kit with envelopes, labels, and a storage container—helps you keep things organized. Plus, saving seeds means you’re less dependent on buying new ones each year, which is a huge plus for self-reliance.
Soil Block Maker
If you’re serious about growing plants from seed, a soil block maker is a fantastic tool. Instead of using plastic trays or pots, this device presses soil into compact blocks, which reduces transplant shock and eliminates the need for containers. It’s an eco-friendly way to start seeds, and it’s become a staple in my garden setup.
Hand-Crank Grain Mill
If you’re growing grains like wheat or corn, a hand-crank grain mill is essential for processing your harvest. It lets you grind your grains into flour or meal, giving you control over your food supply. Whether you’re making bread from your own wheat or cornmeal from your homegrown corn, this tool puts the power to create right in your hands.
Water Level
When you’re building or landscaping on your homestead, making sure things are level is crucial. A water level is a simple but highly effective tool for getting accurate measurements across long distances. Whether you’re laying a foundation, building garden beds, or putting up fencing, this tool ensures everything is perfectly level without the need for high-tech gadgets.
