Pick-Up Tools and Mirrors

Why Magnetic Pick-Up Tools Are Shop Essentials

Magnetic pick-up tools are indispensable for retrieving dropped fasteners, washers, and metal components from tight spaces where hands can't reach. Telescoping designs typically extend from around 5 inches to over 30 inches, allowing technicians to reach deep into engine bays, under vehicle chassis, and into tight crevices.

Lifting capacities vary by model, generally ranging from a few pounds for compact pocket tools up to 10 pounds or more for heavy-duty models. Features like cushion grips help maintain control even with wet or oily hands, while pocket clips keep tools accessible. Some models include protective caps that shield the magnet from attaching to unintended metal surfaces during storage and transport.

Inspection Mirrors for Diagnostic Work

Inspection mirrors enable technicians to visually examine components without disassembly, making them crucial for diagnostic work and quality inspections. Mirror diameters typically range from compact 1-1/4 inch sizes for tight spaces up to 3-1/4 inches or larger for broader viewing areas.

Clear glass mirrors provide distortion-free reflections, while corrosion-resistant stainless steel housings ensure durability in harsh shop environments. Ball-joint designs allow 360-degree positioning, enabling technicians to achieve optimal viewing angles when inspecting brake systems, exhaust components, suspension parts, and engine areas. For larger inspections such as undercarriage examinations on trucks and commercial vehicles, rolling mirrors with larger viewing surfaces are available.

Choosing the Right Tool Configuration

Individual tools work well for technicians who need specific functionality, while combination sets often provide better value by pairing mirrors and magnets together. Some sets include interchangeable heads that allow a single telescoping handle to accommodate both mirror and magnet attachments, reducing the number of tools to manage.

Utility sets may also include magnetic trays for organizing small fasteners and components during repairs. Counter displays offer shops a convenient way to stock multiple tool sizes and styles while providing point-of-sale visibility for technicians selecting tools.

Material and Construction Considerations

Stainless steel construction offers strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance—important factors when tools are exposed to automotive fluids, road salt, and chemicals. Textured or cushioned grip materials help prevent slipping during use, especially when hands are contaminated with oil, grease, or cleaning solvents.

Telescoping mechanisms should extend and retract smoothly while maintaining rigidity when extended to full length. Quality construction ensures tools maintain their functionality through repeated daily use in demanding shop environments.

Pick Up Tools and Mirrors