Siegen 90-piece tool chest

Part number: S01055 Price: £135.00 From: Sealey, 01284 757500, sealey.co.uk

This is one of the more expensive multi-drawer tool chests on test, but the higher price is reflected in the quality of the tools – and there are no gimmicks to make up the number of pieces, such as drawing pins, picture hooks or screws. Instead, you get the basics of what an entry-level mechanic needs: metric sockets from 4mm-32mm, 16mm and 21mm spark plug sockets, ¼- and ½-inch ratchet drives, spanners from 6mm-22mm, a selection of Allen keys (but no 7mm), screwdrivers, pliers and lots of bits (Allen keys, Torx up to T30 and screwdriver bits). Plus, all of the tools come with a lifetime warranty.

Stored in a two-drawer tool chest with a lockable lid, there’s a place for everything with clear labelling to help locate the right tool. We also liked how many of the tools could be used together – the screwdriver-style handle for using the bits can be equipped with a ¼-inch socket on one end and a ¼-inch drive ratchet at the other, helping to create more leverage when undoing stubborn fastenings.

This toolkit is certainly a good investment and starting point for a would-be mechanic. There are less tools than some of the cheaper kits we tested but, in this case, less appears to be more when it comes to the quality. Our apprentice chose this starter kit as his favourite.