10 Tools Every Homesteader Should Own (But Everyone Forgets)

A successful homestead depends on having the right tools for the job. While the basics like shovels and hammers are obvious, many essential tools get overlooked—until they’re needed. Whether it’s securing fencing, maintaining equipment, or handling livestock, having the proper tools on hand saves time, prevents unnecessary work, and avoids costly mistakes.

New homesteaders often learn the hard way which tools are indispensable. The best approach is to be prepared from the start. These 15 tools may not be the first on your list, but they’re the ones you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again.

Post Hole Digger

If you’re putting up fencing, building a structure, or setting posts for anything, a post hole digger is a must. Trying to dig deep, narrow holes with a shovel is slow and frustrating, and an auger isn’t always practical.

A good manual post hole digger lets you dig precise holes for fence posts, gate supports, and even small tree plantings. It’s one of those tools that saves time and effort every single time you need to put something solid in the ground.

Come-Along

A come-along is one of those tools you don’t think about until you need it—then you’ll wonder how you lived without it. Whether you’re pulling fence tight, moving heavy logs, or yanking a stuck truck out of the mud, this tool gives you extra muscle.

It’s basically a hand-powered winch, which means no electricity or fuel required. Get one with a good weight rating, and it’ll handle plenty of heavy lifting around your homestead.

Headlamp

Flashlights are useful, but a headlamp is better. Whether you’re checking on animals at night, fixing a fence after dark, or working early mornings, having both hands free makes everything easier.

Get one with a bright, adjustable beam and a long battery life. It’ll save you from trying to hold a flashlight in your mouth while wrestling with a stubborn gate latch.

Hoof Trimmers

If you’ve got goats, sheep, or cattle, hoof care is a regular job. Overgrown hooves lead to foot problems, infections, and lameness, which can be expensive—or even fatal—if ignored.

A good pair of hoof trimmers makes the job easier and safer. They’re built to cut through tough hoof material cleanly, so you’re not fighting with dull clippers or making jagged cuts.

Fence Tester

If you’re running electric fencing, a fence tester is the difference between knowing your fence is working and guessing. A fence that looks fine might not be carrying enough charge to keep animals in—or predators out.

A tester quickly tells you if the voltage is strong enough. It saves time and frustration, especially when troubleshooting weak spots in a long fence line.

Broadfork

If you’re serious about gardening, a broadfork is one of the best tools you can own. Unlike a rototiller, it loosens the soil without destroying its natural structure or killing off earthworms.

It’s perfect for breaking up compacted soil, prepping new garden beds, and keeping your soil aerated. Plus, it’s built to last—no gas, no motor, just solid metal tines that do the job right.

Manual Water Pump

If your well runs on electricity, what’s your backup plan when the power goes out? A manual water pump gives you a way to pull water when you need it, no electricity required.

Even if you have a rainwater system or stored water, a manual pump gives you extra security. You can install one directly on your well or keep a portable version for emergencies.

Soil Probe

A soil probe lets you check soil moisture and composition without digging up half your garden. If you’re serious about growing food, knowing what’s happening below the surface helps you water and fertilize more efficiently.

It’s especially useful in dry climates, where over- or under-watering can make or break a crop. A quick probe tells you if your plants actually need water or if the surface just dried out.

Tarp

A strong tarp is one of the most underrated homestead tools. Whether you’re hauling leaves, firewood, compost, or harvested crops, a tarp makes the job easier.

Instead of loading and unloading by hand, just pile everything onto the tarp and drag it where it needs to go. It’s faster, easier on your back, and works great for moving heavy loads without a wheelbarrow.

Oil Filter Wrench

If you’re running tractors, generators, or other homestead equipment, you’re going to be changing oil. An oil filter wrench makes that job a whole lot easier.

Trying to get a stuck filter off by hand is frustrating and messy. A good wrench gives you the grip and leverage to do it right, saving you time and busted knuckles.