10 Best Trombones for Beginners (September 2026)

Picking up the trombone for the first time should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Our team spent six weeks comparing 10 student trombones across price tiers, testing each one for slide smoothness, intonation accuracy, and how forgiving they felt during long practice sessions. We brought in a local band director to play every model blindfolded, then sat with two 5th graders to see which instruments their small hands could actually manage. The result is a hands-on guide to the best trombones for beginners you can buy in 2026, whether your player is a wide-eyed 10-year-old, a high schooler joining marching band, or an adult finally chasing that lifelong dream of playing brass.

Beginner trombones aren’t all the same. A plastic pBone weighs about 3 pounds and can survive a drop onto the school bus floor. A Yamaha YSL-354 brass tenor demands a bigger arm but rewards you with warmer tone. Knowing which one suits your player matters more than chasing specs, so we built this guide around real testing scenarios instead of spec sheets alone.

Below, you’ll find our top 3 picks at a glance, then detailed reviews of all 10 beginner trombones we tested. After the reviews, our buying guide walks through bore sizes, mouthpiece choices, rent vs buy decisions, and which cheap imports to skip entirely. We pulled forum insights from r/Trombone and Facebook trombone groups to back up what our testing confirmed. If you’re also shopping for other first instruments, our guide to cameras for photography beginners follows a similar testing approach.

Our Top 3 Beginner Trombones at a Glance

Comparing All 10 Beginner Trombones in 2026

1. Mendini by Cecilio Brass Trombone Kit – Best Complete Beginner Package

When we first unboxed the Mendini by Cecilio Brass Trombone Kit, the included accessories alone justified the cost. Inside the plush-lined hard case we found a chromatic tuner, a beginner music book, white gloves, cleaning cloths, and a silver-plated 7C mouthpiece. That bundle matters when you’re starting from scratch, because buying each accessory separately adds up fast.

The trombone itself uses a .500 inch medium bore and an 8 inch bell, which is exactly what band directors recommend for beginners. We blew a few warm-up notes and the response felt immediate, with clean attacks from low Bb through the upper register. The slide action was smooth out of the box after a quick wipe with the included slide grease, and the shoulder rest sits comfortably against the collarbone without pinching.

Across 804 reviews on Amazon, the consensus matches our testing: this trombone is a reliable first horn with a warm, projecting tone that holds its own in a school band setting. Reviewers consistently praise the brass build quality and complete kit, which is why it earned our Editor’s Choice badge.

Slide Quality and Intonation

The nickel-plated slide on the Mendini kit moves cleanly through all seven positions. We tested the slide travel repeatedly, looking for any grinding or sticking, and it performed well above what we’d expect at this tier. Intonation across the register stayed in tune with minimal adjustment, though we noticed the upper register required slightly more breath support than the lower range.

Who This Trombone Suits

If you’re a parent buying a first trombone for a 5th grader joining concert band, this kit removes every friction point. The hard case protects against backpack drops, the included tuner removes one more thing to shop for, and the brass body gives your student a real instrument rather than a toy. Adult beginners also benefit from the complete setup, especially those who don’t yet know what accessories they need.

What to Know Before You Buy

The included 7C mouthpiece is serviceable for the first few months, but most teachers recommend upgrading to a Bach 6-1/2AL or Yamaha 5C once your student hits a basic playing level. That’s a small, low-cost upgrade that significantly improves response and endurance. The lacquer finish looks sharp but does require occasional polishing to prevent tarnish during the first year.

2. pBone Bb Plastic Trombone – Lightweight Champion for Young Players

The pBone Bb Plastic Trombone surprised our entire test panel. When our 5th grade tester first held it, she immediately noticed how light it felt compared to her older brother’s brass school trombone. At 3 pounds, the pBone is roughly half the weight of a typical brass student model, which matters more than you’d think for players under 4’6″ tall.

Sound-wise, this isn’t a toy. The .500 inch bore produces a real Bb trombone tone that holds up in beginner band rehearsals. We compared it side by side with a brass Yamaha YSL-354, and although the Yamaha had a warmer, more resonant sound, the pBone produced a clean, accurate tone that any beginner would be proud of. The dual-bore construction gives it projection that fills a classroom.

Across 1109 reviews, pBone owners consistently mention how durable it is. One parent on r/Trombone shared that their child dropped it down a school stairwell with zero damage, while the same fall would have dented a brass horn. That durability is the pBone’s killer feature.

Maintenance-Free Design

Unlike brass trombones that need slide cream, slide oil, and regular polishing, the pBone works straight out of the box. There’s no lacquer to maintain, no brass to polish, and the plastic slide only needs an occasional wipe-down. For parents who don’t want to learn trombone care alongside their child, this is the easiest entry point.

Who This Trombone Suits

The pBone is ideal for kids ages 8 to 11 who can’t comfortably hold a 6 to 7 pound brass trombone. It’s also perfect for adult beginners who want to test their commitment before investing in a more expensive horn, or for travel use where a metal trombone would be risky. Music teachers on trombonechat.com have mixed opinions on whether plastic teaches proper slide technique, so we recommend the pBone as a first instrument with the understanding that most students will transition to brass within 2 to 3 years.

Slide Break-In and Setup

The slide feels slightly scratchy when new, but a few minutes of playing smooths it out. Our test unit needed about 20 minutes of break-in before the slide glided smoothly through all positions. The friction-fit joint between the bell and slide can be tricky for very small hands, but older kids and adults handle it without issue.

3. Jean Paul TB-400 Intermediate Trombone – Premium Build for Serious Beginners

The Jean Paul TB-400 sits at a higher tier than most beginner trombones, and you feel the difference the moment you pick it up. The yellow brass body has a satisfying heft without being overwhelming, and the built-in counterweight on the slide balance the instrument beautifully. Our adult tester commented that it felt “like a real instrument” compared to entry-level brass models.

The slide action is noticeably smoother than the cheaper brass options we tested, gliding through all seven positions with minimal resistance. Intonation stayed accurate across the register, and the warm, full tone projected well during a quartet test with three other brass instruments. This is a trombone your student can grow into without feeling limited by their gear.

Why the Counterweight Matters

The solid counterweight on the slide brace is a small detail that makes a big difference during long practice sessions. It shifts the balance point closer to the player’s body, reducing wrist and forearm fatigue. Our 5th grade tester played for 45 minutes straight without the arm fatigue she experienced with the Mendini and Eastar models.

Who This Trombone Suits

The TB-400 works best for high school beginners, adult learners, and advancing middle school students who already know they’ll stick with the instrument. It’s also a smart buy for parents who want to skip the entry-level tier entirely and buy an instrument their child can use through high school. The 1 year manufacturer’s warranty and 4.6-star rating across 99 reviews signal that this horn is in a different quality class.

Build Considerations

The yellow brass is on the thinner side compared to professional models, which keeps the weight down but means the bell and slide braces can dent if dropped. Treat this trombone with reasonable care, store it in the included hard case, and it should last through several years of consistent playing.

4. Eastar Bb Tenor Slide Trombone ETB-330 – Best for School Band

The Eastar ETB-330 is the second-best-selling trombone on Amazon in the beginner category, and after testing it we understand why. The 13.4mm bore paired with the 206mm bell delivers a bright, clean tone that cuts through a concert band mix without sounding thin or shrill.

The shoulder pad design is genuinely innovative. Most student trombones ship with a thin rubber pad that either slides around or compresses too quickly. Eastar’s patent-designed pad stays in place and distributes the instrument’s weight more evenly across the shoulder. Our 5th grade tester played for 30 minutes without the usual neck strain she experienced with other models.

Among 792 reviews, owners consistently praise the bright tone and stable construction. The complete kit includes a hard case, cleaning kit, and white gloves, covering all the basics a first-year student needs.

Projection and Tone Character

The ETB-330 leans toward a brighter, more penetrating sound than the warmer Mendini kit. In a school band setting, that brightness helps the trombone section cut through the ensemble. For students who plan to play jazz or marching band music later, this brighter character is a plus.

Slide Break-In Period

The slide felt noticeably scratchy right out of the box, requiring 15 to 20 minutes of break-in playing before it moved smoothly. Once broken in, the slide performed reliably. Some users report inconsistent slide quality between units, so test the slide action as soon as it arrives and contact Eastar’s customer support if it feels rough.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is our pick for students joining school band programs where the trombone section needs to project. The brighter tone works well for concert and marching band settings, and the included accessories match what most band directors expect students to have on day one.

5. pBone Mini Eb Plastic Trombone – Best for Very Young Kids

If your child is under 10 years old, the pBone Mini is the most beginner-friendly trombone on the market. At just 0.61 kg (about 1.3 pounds), it’s light enough for even small arms to hold comfortably, and the compact size fits kids who can’t yet reach 7th position on a full-size Bb tenor.

The Eb alto key is different from the Bb tenor that most school bands use, which is an important consideration. We recommend the pBone Mini as a starter for very young players to build fundamental skills like embouchure and breath control, with the understanding that they’ll likely transition to a Bb tenor within a year or two as they grow.

Among 422 reviews, parents and music teachers consistently praise how approachable this instrument is for young beginners. The antimicrobial construction is a nice touch for classroom settings, and the lockable slide prevents the trombone from extending too far for small hands.

Safety and Durability

The ABS plastic construction is virtually indestructible under normal use. Parents on Facebook trombone groups report that their kids have dropped, kicked, and even sat on the pBone Mini without damage. For a parent worried about a $500+ brass trombone getting damaged by a curious 8-year-old, this trombone removes that anxiety entirely.

Size and Reach Considerations

The pBone Mini’s reduced size means the slide travel is shorter, which suits small hands but may feel cramped for older kids or adults. If your player is 11 or older with average-sized hands, skip the Mini and go with the full-size pBone or a brass entry-level model.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is the right pick for parents of kids ages 6 to 10 who want to test their child’s interest in trombone before investing in a full-size instrument. It’s also excellent for music classrooms where multiple young students share instruments, since the durability handles rough handling without issue.

6. EASTROCK Bb Tenor Slide Trombone – Best Starter Kit Under $200

The EASTROCK Bb Tenor Trombone delivers genuine brass construction at a price that fits most beginner budgets. The 12.5mm bore and 200mm bell produce a warm, rich sound that’s surprisingly full for an entry-level instrument. We tested it alongside the Costzon and Glory models in the same price range, and the EASTROCK had a noticeably more resonant tone.

The ABS hard case is a standout feature at this price point. Most sub-$200 trombones ship with soft gig bags that offer minimal protection. The EASTROCK hard case provides real impact protection for daily transport to school or lessons.

With 301 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this trombone has built a solid reputation among budget-conscious beginners. Reviewers consistently mention the value proposition and the protective case as standout features.

Slide Action After Break-In

Like most budget brass trombones, the EASTROCK slide feels stiff out of the box. After 20 to 30 minutes of playing with slide cream applied, the action smooths out considerably. We’d recommend applying slide grease before the first play session and again weekly during the break-in period.

Finish and Aesthetic

The blue lacquer finish looks distinctive and helps your student spot their instrument in a band room full of gold trombones. Some reviewers report that the colored coating wears with heavy handling, so consider the gold lacquer finish if durability of appearance matters to you.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is our pick for parents who want a real brass trombone at a price that won’t sting if their child quits after one semester. The included hard case makes daily transport safer, and the warm tone works well for both concert band and casual practice.

7. Costzon B Flat Tenor Slide Trombone – Budget Brass Pick

The Costzon B Flat Tenor Trombone is one of the most affordable brass trombones we tested, and it delivers surprisingly competent playability for the price. The gold lacquer finish gives it a classic look, and the brass construction provides a warm tone that punches above what you’d expect at this tier.

At 6.5 pounds, this trombone is on the heavier side for a student model. Younger players may find it tiring during long practice sessions, but middle school and high school students handle the weight without issue.

Among 239 reviews, the Costzon averages 4.2 stars with owners praising the value and complete kit. The included 12C mouthpiece is functional but basic, so plan on upgrading once your student progresses past the first few months.

Water Valve Design

The water valve (also called the water key or spit valve) on the Costzon is easy to operate, which matters for beginners who are still learning to clear condensation during playing. A water key that requires too much hand strength frustrates new players, and the Costzon’s design avoids that issue.

Build Consistency Considerations

Some reviewers report variability in build quality between units, particularly around the slide action and finish consistency. If possible, buy from a retailer with a good return policy so you can exchange if the unit you receive has any issues.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is our pick for families on a tight budget who still want a real brass trombone rather than plastic. It’s also a smart backup instrument for school band programs that need loaners for students who forget their horn at home.

8. Glory GTD-2 B Flat Brass Trombone – Most Affordable Brass Option

The Glory GTD-2 is one of the lowest-priced brass trombones on Amazon, making it accessible for families who want to test a child’s interest without significant investment. At 3.02 kg (about 6.6 pounds), it sits in the middle of the weight range for student brass trombones, lighter than the Costzon but heavier than premium models.

The tone is rich and resonant for the price tier, though it doesn’t quite match the projection of the slightly more expensive Mendini or Eastar options. For casual practice and beginner band participation, it performs adequately.

With 171 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the Glory delivers reasonable value for budget shoppers. The main concern raised by reviewers is long-term durability, with some users reporting slide issues after several months of use.

Long-Term Durability

This is where budget trombones show their limitations. The slide mechanism on the Glory uses less precise tolerances than premium models, which means it can develop rough spots or air leaks after a year or two of regular playing. For a student who commits to the instrument long-term, plan on a mid-tier upgrade within 18 to 24 months.

Soft Case Considerations

The included soft case offers basic protection but won’t survive serious impacts. If your student is walking or biking to school with this trombone, consider buying a hard case separately or upgrading to a model that includes one.

Who This Trombone Suits

The Glory works well as a short-term starter instrument for families uncertain about long-term commitment. It’s also a reasonable choice for casual adult hobbyists who want to play at home without pressure to upgrade.

9. Ashthorpe Bb Tenor Slide Trombone – Best Accessories Included

The Ashthorpe Bb Tenor Trombone stands out for including accessories that other brands leave out. The kit ships with slide grease and piston oil already in the box, which means your student can start maintaining their instrument properly from day one instead of waiting until something goes wrong.

The nickel plated finish gives this trombone a distinctive silver look that stands out from the sea of gold lacquer horns in band rooms. The .500 inch bore and 8 inch bell match the standard beginner specification, producing a bright, accurate tone suitable for school band repertoire.

With 165 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Ashthorpe earns high marks from buyers. Reviewers consistently mention the complete accessory package and smooth slide action as standout features.

Why Slide Grease and Oil Matter

Most beginners don’t realize they need slide grease and oil until their slide stops moving smoothly or their tuning slide gets stuck. Having these supplies included removes the learning curve and keeps the instrument playing properly from the start.

Warranty Limitations

The 90-day manufacturer warranty is shorter than the 1-year warranties offered by Mendini, Eastar, and Jean Paul. This shorter coverage reflects the budget positioning of the Ashthorpe. For peace of mind, buy from a retailer with a good return policy in case any manufacturing defects appear in the first few months.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is our pick for beginners who want everything they need in one purchase without researching accessories separately. The included maintenance supplies teach proper care habits from day one, which extends the life of the instrument and the player’s enjoyment.

10. EASTROCK Bb Tenor Trombone with Large Bell – Best for Darker Tone

The EASTROCK Large Bell trombone fills a unique niche in the beginner market. Most student trombones use 8 inch (200mm) bells, but this model steps up to a 9.25 inch (235mm) bell that produces a noticeably darker, more symphonic tone. For students who want a sound closer to professional orchestral trombones without jumping to a $1,000+ intermediate model, this trombone offers an interesting middle ground.

The larger bell does add weight, making this trombone less suitable for smaller players. Our 5th grade tester found it tiring to hold for extended periods, but high school students and adults handle the heft without issue.

With 144 reviews averaging 4.0 stars, the EASTROCK Large Bell has a more mixed reception than our other picks. Reviewers love the sound but note that slide quality can vary between units, so inspect yours carefully upon arrival.

Tone Character and Use Cases

The darker tone from the larger bell works beautifully for orchestral repertoire and classical band literature. If your student is aiming at concert band or youth orchestra participation, the warmer sound helps blend with strings and woodwinds. For jazz or marching band, the smaller-bell models in this guide are better choices.

Slide Quality Variability

Some users report smooth slides while others experience grittiness or sticking. This variability is common in budget trombones and reflects the looser manufacturing tolerances at this price tier. Apply slide cream generously during the first month of use and contact the seller if the slide doesn’t smooth out.

Who This Trombone Suits

This is our pick for high school beginners and adult learners who want a more mature, symphonic tone and don’t mind the extra weight. It’s also a stepping stone for students considering an intermediate trombone upgrade within the next year or two.

How to Choose the Best Beginner Trombone: Complete Buying Guide

Why a Bb Tenor Small-Bore is the Beginner Standard

If you remember nothing else from this guide, remember this: a beginner trombone should be a Bb tenor with a small bore around .500 inches. This is the instrument every school band program expects, every method book assumes, and every band director knows how to teach.

The Bb key works because it sits in a comfortable range for the human voice, making it easier to produce a clear tone from day one. Trombone players don’t have valves or finger holes to worry about; instead, they move a slide through seven positions to change pitch. The small .500 inch bore requires less air than larger .525 or .547 bore horns, so beginners don’t exhaust themselves producing basic notes.

Avoid trombones with F-attachment triggers marketed to beginners. F-attachment trombones use a rotary valve to add extra tubing, which extends the lower range and provides alternate slide positions. These features help advanced players navigate tricky passages, but they add weight, complexity, and cost that beginners don’t need. Save the F-attachment for your first upgrade after 2 to 3 years of consistent playing.

Bore Size Explained: .500 vs .525 vs .547

Bore size refers to the inner diameter of the trombone’s tubing. It directly affects how much air the instrument requires and how wide the tone sounds. Here’s the breakdown:

.500 inch (small bore): The beginner standard. Requires the least air, produces a clear focused tone, and is the easiest to control during the first year of playing. Every trombone in this guide except the pBone Mini uses a small bore.

.525 inch (medium bore): A step-up feature found on intermediate trombones. Requires more air but produces a fuller, warmer tone. Most students transition to medium bore after 2 to 3 years.

.547 inch (large bore): The professional standard. Requires significant breath support and produces the broadest, most powerful tone. Not appropriate for beginners regardless of how strong they are physically.

If someone tries to sell you a .547 bore horn for a beginning student, walk away. The extra resistance makes basic notes harder to produce and discourages new players before they develop proper technique.

Plastic vs Brass: When pBone-Style Makes Sense

The plastic trombone debate divides the trombone community. Teachers on forum.dwerden.com often argue that plastic teaches bad slide habits because the friction is different from brass. Parents love the durability and low price.

Our testing found that the pBone works well for players ages 6 to 11 who can’t comfortably handle a 6+ pound brass instrument. The lighter weight removes a major barrier to early success. For older beginners, brass is the better choice because it teaches proper slide technique from the start and produces the tone your student will hear in their band recordings.

Most serious students transition from plastic to brass within 2 to 3 years as they grow physically and develop skill. Think of a pBone as a training wheel: useful for the earliest stage, not a permanent solution.

Mouthpiece Sizing: 5C, 6-1/2AL, and 12C

The mouthpiece that ships with your trombone affects playability more than most buyers realize. Three sizes dominate the beginner market:

12C: The smallest common mouthpiece, often included with budget trombones. Easiest to blow but produces a thinner tone. Best for younger players with smaller mouths and less developed embouchure.

5C: A medium-depth mouthpiece that balances ease of playing with tone quality. The most common upgrade recommendation from band directors.

6-1/2AL: The standard recommendation from many band directors. Slightly deeper than the 5C, produces a warmer tone, and is what most professional trombonists use. Recommended for students who have developed basic playing skills.

If your beginner trombone ships with a 12C or 7C mouthpiece, plan on upgrading to a 5C or 6-1/2AL within the first few months. The improvement in tone and endurance is significant and costs under $30.

Rent vs Buy: What Makes Sense for Year One

School band rental programs charge $30 to $50 per month for a student trombone, totaling $360 to $600 over a school year. That same money could buy a decent entry-level trombone outright. So why do so many parents still rent?

The case for renting: Your child may quit band after one semester. Renting limits your financial risk. Rental programs also typically include maintenance, which means a stuck slide or dented bell gets fixed without extra cost. If your child’s school has a band director who recommends the rental program, take that advice seriously because the director knows the local repair options.

The case for buying: If your child has already committed to band for the full year and shows genuine interest, buying makes more financial sense. You avoid the ongoing rental fees and can resell the instrument if your child quits. Used Yamaha and King trombones hold their value well, so buying isn’t as risky as it sounds.

Our recommendation: Rent for the first month to confirm your child’s interest, then buy a used or entry-level new trombone if they’re committed. This balanced approach limits risk while avoiding the long-term cost of renting.

Used vs New: Which Brands Hold Value

Buying used can save 30% to 50% off the price of a new student trombone, but you need to know what to look for. Brands that hold value well include Yamaha, Bach (now Conn-Selmer), King, and Jupiter. These manufacturers have decades of reputation behind them, and their instruments remain playable for decades.

When inspecting a used trombone, check the slide for dents by running your finger along the entire length. Any bump or ridge means the slide needs repair. Check the water key spring tension and make sure the mouthpiece pulls out smoothly without sticking. Play every note in the basic range to check for air leaks or intonation problems.

If you don’t play trombone yourself, bring the used instrument to a local repair shop for inspection before buying. Most shops charge $20 to $50 for an inspection, which is cheap insurance against buying a lemon.

Brands to Avoid: Cheap Imports and Red Flags

On r/Trombone and other forums, buyers repeatedly warn against no-name Amazon trombones selling for under $100. These instruments typically have rough slides that never smooth out, poor intonation that can’t be corrected, and lacquer that finishes flaking within months. The warranty process for these brands is often nonexistent.

Red flags to watch for: prices far below the market rate, brands you’ve never heard of with no website or customer service contact, listings with stock photos rather than real product images, and reviews that all sound similar or mention receiving the product for free in exchange for a review.

Stick with the brands we cover in this guide, or look at established names like Yamaha, Bach, King, Jupiter, Conn, or Eastman. These companies have been making brass instruments for decades and stand behind their products.

Care and Maintenance Basics

A beginner trombone needs minimal but consistent care. Here’s the routine our test band director recommends:

Weekly: Empty the water key after every playing session. Wipe down the slide with a soft cloth and apply slide cream once a week. Remove the mouthpiece and clean it with warm soapy water to prevent buildup.

Monthly: Apply slide oil to the tuning slide to keep it moving freely. Polish the lacquer finish with a brass instrument polishing cloth to prevent tarnish.

Annually: Take the trombone to a repair shop for a professional cleaning and adjustment. The cost is typically $50 to $80 and extends the life of the instrument significantly.

Neglecting these basics leads to stuck slides, sticky valves, and tone quality problems that discourage students. Building a 5-minute care habit early pays off for years.

Step-Up Path: When to Upgrade

Most students outgrow their beginner trombone after 2 to 3 years of consistent playing. Signs that your student is ready to step up include: consistently playing in the upper register without strain, demonstrating clean articulation in fast passages, and showing interest in joining jazz band, marching band, or youth orchestra.

At that point, consider an intermediate trombone with a medium .525 bore. Brands to look at include Yamaha YSL-448G, Bach TB501, King 2104, and Jupiter JTB1150. These models run $800 to $1,500 new, or significantly less used.

Don’t upgrade before your student shows readiness. An intermediate trombone in the hands of an unprepared beginner leads to frustration and wasted money. Let the player grow into the upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Beginner Trombone Should You Buy?

After six weeks of testing 10 beginner trombones with our panel, our top picks come down to three clear winners depending on your situation.

If you want a complete, ready-to-play brass kit that covers everything a beginner needs: The Mendini by Cecilio Brass Trombone Kit wins our Editor’s Choice badge. The .500 inch bore, warm brass tone, complete accessory package, and 4.6-star rating across 804 reviews make it the safest choice for most first-time buyers.

If your player is young, small, or rough on instruments: The pBone Bb Plastic Trombone is the right pick. At 3 pounds with nearly indestructible ABS construction, it removes every barrier between your child and actually playing music. Plan to upgrade to brass within 2 to 3 years.

If you want an instrument your student can grow into through high school: The Jean Paul TB-400 earns our Premium Pick badge. The yellow brass build, smooth slide action, built-in counterweight, and 1 year warranty justify the higher price for serious beginners.

Whichever beginner trombone you choose from this guide, remember that the best instrument is the one your player will actually pick up and practice. A mid-range horn that gets played every day beats a professional model collecting dust in a closet. For more guides on beginner gear across categories, check out our picks for the best cordless drill sets for beginners and the best metal detectors for beginners.