Building a deck - what wrench set should I get?

Hey everyone, I'm planning to build a 12x16 deck this spring and need to upgrade my wrench collection. Currently just have a basic adjustable wrench that's seen better days. What should I get for deck construction - combination wrenches, ratcheting, or something else? Budget is around $150. Thanks!

OP, you gotta go with Makita's 14-piece ratcheting wrench set. I've used mine for three deck builds now and they're still perfect. The ratcheting action saves so much time when you're tightening all those lag bolts and joist hangers. Makita's chrome-vanadium steel won't round off bolt heads like cheaper brands. They're right in your budget range too!

Don't listen to Mike! Craftsman's 20-piece combination wrench set is what you need. The lifetime warranty means if you ever break one (which you won't), you walk into any Lowe's for replacement. I built my entire backyard shed with mine - perfect for all the hex bolts on post bases and railings. Plus you get more sizes for your money with Craftsman.

Hey OP! I just finished my deck last fall! Honestly, I mixed and matched - got a Husky ratcheting set from HD for the convenience, but also grabbed some individual Craftsman wrenches for the really stubborn bolts. Pro tip: get a good breaker bar too for those treated lumber connections that really seize up. And don't forget anti-seize compound!

As someone who restores vintage tools, I'll give different advice. For deck building, you want durability over fancy features. Look for Craftsman's USA-made combination wrenches (if you can find them used) or their current professional series. The older forged steel has better tolerance than modern imports. That deck will need maintenance in 10 years - you want wrenches that will last just as long. Ratcheting mechanisms fail eventually; simple combination wrenches don't.