Black and Deckers has been at the forefront of power tool technology for as long as most people care to remember and their current crop of products keeps their sterling reputation alive and well.

The AS36LN Auto Select Screwdriver with magnetic screw holder runs from a 3.6v li-ion battery and is undoubtedly a intelligently-designed tool. The key feature here is the magnetic device which extends from the handle grip and protrudes underneath the barrel. In effect, it acts as a guide for the screw, with the strong magnet holding it in place and offering it up in line with the bit, meaning insertion and fastening is made easy. For one-handed driving, so to speak, this is a revelation.

Of course, as any DIY enthusiast will know you can't just go around screwing screws and banging nails into walls willy-nilly. The risk of compromising any electrical cabling or plumbing means that an electronic device, such as the new BDS303 3-in-1 Detector, is an essential piece of kit. The unit will 'read' what's behind any given wall, detecting wooden studs, metal and AC live wires, thereby ensuring that any applied screw or nail doesn't interfere with- anything it shouldn't be. The inbuilt LCD screen is ingenious, giving a clear and accurate representation of what's behind the surface being worked on.

Finally, sometimes things go wrong with home improvements and whether it's hastily fastening an item to a wall to cover a gaping great hole (created by unfortunate, if well-intentioned, handiwork) or just mending something that was smashed to the floor in frustration, the GG500 Glue Gun is ideal. This corded/cordless device is versatile and easy to use, plus it has a temperature indicator for increased efficiency.