A 25 lb bag of hand tools pulls most profitable parts; add cordless power once you're going regularly. Safety comes first, because junkyards have sharp metal, unstable cars, heat and wildlife.

Beginner kit (fits in a backpack or tool bag)

• 3/8" ratchet with metric and SAE sockets, shallow and deep, plus extensions and a wobble joint
• 1/2" breaker bar
• Combination wrenches
• Screwdrivers (flat, Phillips), Torx and Allen bits
• Pliers, wire cutters, locking pliers, adjustable wrench
• Pry bar, 2 lb hammer, plastic trim removal tools
• Penetrating oil (e.g. PB Blaster)
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Zip bags and a marker for hardware; phone for photos
• Gloves, safety glasses, water, wipes, and cardboard or an old rug to lie on

Sources: AnandTech forum, GRM tips.

Pro kit add-ons

• Cordless 1/2" impact wrench with deep impact sockets and spare batteries
• Cordless reciprocating saw, only where the yard allows it
• External Torx (E-Torx) and reverse Torx; triple-square (XZN) bits for VW, Audi and Mercedes; radio removal keys for European head units
• Flex-head ratcheting wrenches
• A small jump pack, or a drill battery wired to spade terminals, to move power seats and windows (Pull-A-Part allows jump packs)
• A wagon or cart with big wheels (small hand-truck wheels get chewed up by gravel), or use the yard's free wheelbarrows
• Microfiber cloth to check screens and lenses

Safety rules

• Never get under a car on yard stands. Shake the car before working near it. Ask staff to reposition a car instead (GRM).
• Wear closed-toe boots, long pants, gloves and safety glasses. Use a dust mask in water-soaked, moldy interiors.
• Watch for broken glass, sharp edges, leftover fluids and blood or animal remains in wrecked cars.
• In spring and summer, expect wasps under dashes and in bumpers, plus snakes. Bring water and sunscreen; people overheat working inside cars in the heat (Tear-A-Part safety tips).
• Lift with your legs and use a cart for doors and seats. Work with a partner when you can.
• No flammable sprays or open flames; torches are banned for a reason.