There are multiple different firmware versions that you can use with the VESC.
You can totally use VESC Tool with ANY standard VESC, as the VESC 4.12 Hardware is compatible with Firmware 3.x. That means you can get any VESC from any vendor, as long as it is a standard version, you should be able to upload any version of the firmware available.
There are 3 main firmware versions you can upload to your VESC as of today.
FW 2.18 - “Stock Standard” Firmware used with the BLDC TOOL. You should reinstall firmware if you get your VESC new. You should know how to do this.
FW 3.x - VESC TOOL firmware. You already know how to get this. Also has its benefits.
Quick note, you may want to be careful install firmwares, and make sure to upload the correct firmware with the Torque Boards VESC, or bad things will happen!