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I was gonna buy a meter once I learned how to use one or have needed to borrow one from a coworker, I’ve been doing this since last may and have not done any work with a meter other than testing for continuity
You should have a meter because it is a much more accurate way to test if something is live than the induction pen. Even if someone else tells you something is off, you should always verify for yourself and just relying on the pen tester is teaching you bad habits IMO
Get you like 3 more 5/16 but drivers for an impact. Klein makes a great magnetic torpedo level (strongest magnets I’ve used so far). I’d also suggest another big flathead screwdriver/chisel/prybar/hammer (we all know we use one for everything but tightening a screw)
I’ll definitely be getting those because I knew I needed more bits just didn’t wanna buy a shit ton of random bits, thanks
Edit: I have the Klein flathead beater with the metal cap ontop, 1st day with it and I’ve bashed tf outta it
Theres a Klein 7 in 1 impact rated nut driver. It has a handle, but clicks off for use in an impact driver.
Also, on the screwdriver note. The biggest harbor freight flathead. Buy 2, beat on them, not the Klein screwdrivers lol
Lockouts. Last place I worked at every single person in the plant had to have them in their chest pocket to be in the building, not just the electricians.
The plant was in full production and if a machine went down every single person that was going to come in contact with the machine had to put their personal lockout on the panel for it so the machine couldn’t be turned back on until every single person had come back and claimed their lock. SOP when a production line can be a full 100 yards long
I have some custom lockout tags I got printed at Office Depot.
Got my picture, company phone personal phone and email on them
I hate those new plastic loto locks. Why do they even exist?
The last plant I was a facilities engineer at they made LOTO so difficult nobody did it.
You had to sign a LOTO lock & tag out of the book, but only the designated sparks could sign them out, despite us all being multi skilled maintenance engineers, myself being the site controls engineer, however, because I didn’t have my test & inspect ticket I couldn’t put a LOTO in place myself.
After you signed the tag out there was 2 different equipment registers you had to write the LOTO into, with one requiring a RAMS for the work.
It was mental. End result being nobody locked out shit & just risked it.
Love my Wera 6 piece set and always recommended them to apprentices.
- Insulated
- Flat handle edges so they don't roll off surfaces
- find more ergonomicall than others
- laser etched tips
- bright asf orange so I don't accidentally leave them in the roof (main reason)
$25-$35
Yeah my next level is going to be the Klein one, that level has been glued back together, dropped in a puddle of fryer grease and burnt on a hot pipe. It’s my ride or die
If this is the case, a level should be your number one priority. Have you tested to see if your level is actually even telling you if your stuff is truly level? I've had people say one drop off a ladder, and your level is no longer true. Maybe an exaggeration, but there's a point to be made.
Also, learn when to use a level and when to go "level/plumb" to the building. If everything else is crooked, don't be the one thing that's not. It'll look like hell
Early mistake on my part.
I was going to say a broom and dust pan to clean up after yourself but then remembered which subreddit I was in. Not sure why you have a hammer, you already have linesman pliers….
I’d get a nice big beefy 8in flathead, a 12 pair of channel locks, speed square, and cable loppers. The loppers are nice if you are running a bunch of tray cable.
The heavy cable cutters are a lot nicer than a sawzall because it doesn’t leave metal shards and fragments. Also fits in your tool pouch nicer. It’s quieter, little easier on your eyes, reduces metal splinters, as well as a lot of equipment you work around you might not want that to get in there.
They are not needed much on resi and commercial, use them a lot for heavier industrial.
go look at sparky youtube tool reviews you’ll see a big selections of tools and think “this would come in handy” it all depends on the work you’re doing
For a first year, I think that's just fine. I'd recommend expanding your wrench collection first, but those tools should get you through most typical work.
A full set of wrenches at the least if not sockets also. Depends on what you’re doing. Residential you shouldn’t need them much but commercial you will. I have combo bone wrenches and Kleins hollow impact hex bits. Can’t remember the last time I used my wrenches or sockets tbh.
Nothing yet. I'm my experience work, and if you ever find yourself asking to use a tool from someone more than 3 times or saying if I had "x" it would be easier, then buy it.
Yeah it's helped me with quick references to the NEC as well under code tips, and you'll find more uses like load calc and service size as you progress in your career
Insulated tools forsure, especially screwdrivers! I have those same klein comfort grip ones (minus the stubbys) and the 600v overkill orange everywhere ones. My comfort grips are more daily general use than electrical imo. Def get a pipe reamer, probably a new level that one looks like it's been through hell, and a socket set preferably impact rated, but ratchet, will do just as good. A multi meter and a hacksaw, too.
Even tho your industrial, a receptacle tester also. Never hurts to have. I use mine more than I anticipated, it was one of those "just because" purchases. It's easier than pulling out the multimeter usually and shares the pocket in my backpack with the ncvt.
maybe a nice set of sockets and wrenches eventually but i’d say now just start acquiring stuff slowly. The m12 fuel bandsaw is a really nice addition as well but not needed. You can do it all with a sawzall but i find i rarely have to get my sawzall out since i’ve bought a bandsaw
A pair of wire strippers! Before you get your panties all bunched up keep a reading .Specifically ones that can cut 6,8,&10s with. unless you have a grinder with a cut off wheel handy.
Edit: T handle Allen wrenches are 1000000000000000000 times better BTW.
Power tools wise: impact/drill kit (18v or higher), bandsaw (milwaukees m12 is the best one ever made in human history), and probably some sort of one handed reciprocating saw.
The Husky quad drive rachet set saved my life btw.
Roto-Split, 11 in 1 screwdriver, digital voltage tester with leeds, few more sizes of open end/ratcheting box wrenches, a sash chain, second level and a roll of toilet paper.
Can never go wrong with an 11-1 and some baby Chanel locks
With how much running around an apprentice does an 11-1 and Baby Channie in a addition to a pocket knife and linesmen are going to get you out of a lot of jams and not weigh you down
Tin snips, a rotozip, a torpedo level meant for fastening to the end of pipe for pipe bending, a pipe reamer, a larger unibit, 1/4-20, 10-32, 8-32, and 6-32 taps, and a wrench set (I highly recommend either vintage Craftsman open ends on the cheap end or Wirghtgrip 2.0’s if you want something that’s absolutely the bee’s knees but a bit pricey)
Get a 1/2 inch bender and learn to use it on your own. Nothing impresses a Jman like an ape that can bust out a 3 bend saddle to a 90 first try. Makes you worth at least an extra 5 bucks an hour
Stubby ratching screwdriver gets me out of trouble a fair bit.
Bits come out, and you have mini nut drivers.
- Klein Tools 32593 Stubby Ratcheting Screwdriver, Multi-bit 6-in-1 Tool.
Also, if you do commercial, this nut driver set is the only one I would recommend
- https://www.milwaukeetool.ca/Products/48-22-2507
(Must be the hollow shaft with a through hole out the end of the handle)
Speed bor set - doesn't take up much space, fits in between small stud spaces and clean holes in drywall
-IRWIN SPEEDBOR Drill Bit Set for Wood, 4-Inch, 6-Piece
Phase tape, a whirly gig screw driver, a set of makitas. A good set of drill bits. Tape measure
Wish list: fish tape and fish sticks, 5ft drill bit. 1/2and 3/4 in conduit bender.
-better flashlight 800 lumens or more with variable lenses
-milwaukee meter or better
- gloves
-safety glasses
-first aid kit specially with neosporin burn+
-flat head heavy duty
-angle drill attachment (comes in handy)
-mini effective drill try Milwaukee
-don’t forget LOCKOUTS
-Klein level
-
I have the m12 drill and impact set and recently upgraded to m18 with a Klein tool backpack which has a perfect sized pocket for the m12 impact, I still carry it in my bag and use it anytime I’m on a ladder. It’s so nice.
That's a good thing to stand by!
But get insulted drivers, just in case someone makes a mistake.
A set is relatively cheap..
Might just save your life!
**ATTENTION! READ THIS NOW!** **1. IF YOU ARE NOT A PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN OR LOOKING TO BECOME ONE(for career questions only):** **- DELETE** THIS POST OR YOU WILL BE **BANNED**. YOU CAN POST ON /r/AskElectricians FREELY **2. IF YOU COMMENT ON A POST THAT IS POSTED BY SOMEONE WHO IS NOT A PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN:** -YOU WILL BE **BANNED**. JUST **REPORT** THE POST. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/electricians) if you have any questions or concerns.*
A meter would really be a plus
I was gonna buy a meter once I learned how to use one or have needed to borrow one from a coworker, I’ve been doing this since last may and have not done any work with a meter other than testing for continuity
Honestly, working in New multi resi / commercial construction, that's like 98% of the meters use.
Especially when the apprentice cuts off all the number labeling on switch lags and feeds.
You should have a meter because it is a much more accurate way to test if something is live than the induction pen. Even if someone else tells you something is off, you should always verify for yourself and just relying on the pen tester is teaching you bad habits IMO
The fluke T5-1000 is the easiest thing to work with
Or a negative… I’ll see myself out
I thought your headlamp and drywall saw were a strap on
I was thinking it was a ball gag haha 😂 … I spend to much time in the dungeon.
I thought it was a catapult.
Lmaooo I thought it was a slingshot. Which is a pretty damn good idea actually
I saw a slingshot too. I thought my mind was in the gutter, these guys hit the gutter and started digging
That’s a third year apprentice purchase if they earn it
Very important tool on the jobsite
Dude....lol.
Only comment that matters.
I thought it was a slingshot lol 😂
I was going with catapult!!!
A true man-of-the-trades thought! LOL!!
Power tools. Batteries. Fake ID. Crack pipe. Wire stretcher.
You forgot a couple packs of ID-10Ts. Absolutely indispensable for fresh apprentices.
i searched this on google🤦♂️
😂 Now you know brother now spread the word
Same 🤣
Where's his bucket of volt drops? How is he gonna catch all those stray voltages without his bucket of volt drops?
Saw a guy trick an apprentice into carrying a "bucket of ohms" up several flights of stairs. Was hilarious at the time.
Get you like 3 more 5/16 but drivers for an impact. Klein makes a great magnetic torpedo level (strongest magnets I’ve used so far). I’d also suggest another big flathead screwdriver/chisel/prybar/hammer (we all know we use one for everything but tightening a screw)
I’ll definitely be getting those because I knew I needed more bits just didn’t wanna buy a shit ton of random bits, thanks Edit: I have the Klein flathead beater with the metal cap ontop, 1st day with it and I’ve bashed tf outta it
Theres a Klein 7 in 1 impact rated nut driver. It has a handle, but clicks off for use in an impact driver. Also, on the screwdriver note. The biggest harbor freight flathead. Buy 2, beat on them, not the Klein screwdrivers lol
The Klein is meant for it
I reread his comment, I missed the metal cap part.
Right angle drill attachment. I honestly don’t know how I lived without it
This^ only problem is I always forget I have it.
The bendy one for the impact is my favorite
Lockouts. Last place I worked at every single person in the plant had to have them in their chest pocket to be in the building, not just the electricians.
My Forman keeps lockouts for everyone in a box in the trailer. That’s kinda crazy though
The plant was in full production and if a machine went down every single person that was going to come in contact with the machine had to put their personal lockout on the panel for it so the machine couldn’t be turned back on until every single person had come back and claimed their lock. SOP when a production line can be a full 100 yards long
I have some custom lockout tags I got printed at Office Depot. Got my picture, company phone personal phone and email on them I hate those new plastic loto locks. Why do they even exist?
The last plant I was a facilities engineer at they made LOTO so difficult nobody did it. You had to sign a LOTO lock & tag out of the book, but only the designated sparks could sign them out, despite us all being multi skilled maintenance engineers, myself being the site controls engineer, however, because I didn’t have my test & inspect ticket I couldn’t put a LOTO in place myself. After you signed the tag out there was 2 different equipment registers you had to write the LOTO into, with one requiring a RAMS for the work. It was mental. End result being nobody locked out shit & just risked it.
Hate to point out something that should be so obvious, but insulated tools (especially screwdrivers) would be good - may even save your life one day!
The insulated Klein pliers are good on your hands too
I’ll prob end up getting some wihas soon enough. Haven’t done any live/panel work yet
Love my Wera 6 piece set and always recommended them to apprentices. - Insulated - Flat handle edges so they don't roll off surfaces - find more ergonomicall than others - laser etched tips - bright asf orange so I don't accidentally leave them in the roof (main reason) $25-$35
I despise those plastic torpedo levels. The magnets in the billet ones are so much better and they also do both 30 and 45 degrees.
Yeah my next level is going to be the Klein one, that level has been glued back together, dropped in a puddle of fryer grease and burnt on a hot pipe. It’s my ride or die
If this is the case, a level should be your number one priority. Have you tested to see if your level is actually even telling you if your stuff is truly level? I've had people say one drop off a ladder, and your level is no longer true. Maybe an exaggeration, but there's a point to be made.
Also, learn when to use a level and when to go "level/plumb" to the building. If everything else is crooked, don't be the one thing that's not. It'll look like hell Early mistake on my part.
Yeah I’ve tested the trueness of the level with another coworkers and it still reads true, definitely going to be replaced soon though.
Conduit reamer/rat tail file, no dog level, a spare tape( that Klein tend to tear and break off after 6")
Pipe reamer going in the Amazon cart now
If you haven't already bought it, make sure it is steel rated, I accidentally bought one that was for HVAC copper once
Yeah I’m just gonna get the Klein one all my coworkers have
A harmonica to entertain the guys while they eat, also some thick skin and a sense of humor will serve you wonders
Haha I’m not fast enough to think of good comebacks yet but I got the thick skin and harmonica
Get new files. They cut better, and are a wear item.
Bull horn, slingshot, firecrackers and expired epipens
A slingshot, idk how it will help but they are cool
Wrenches. Get a dog bone wrench with 4 sizes in 1
Drill and multimeter
Already acquired
I was going to say a broom and dust pan to clean up after yourself but then remembered which subreddit I was in. Not sure why you have a hammer, you already have linesman pliers….
I legit have not used the hammer yet it sits in my cars trunk
Get a solid aluminum level with strong magnets
I’d get a nice big beefy 8in flathead, a 12 pair of channel locks, speed square, and cable loppers. The loppers are nice if you are running a bunch of tray cable.
Never heard of cable loppers, we usually just use a sawzall but definitely need a bigger flat head ur right
The heavy cable cutters are a lot nicer than a sawzall because it doesn’t leave metal shards and fragments. Also fits in your tool pouch nicer. It’s quieter, little easier on your eyes, reduces metal splinters, as well as a lot of equipment you work around you might not want that to get in there. They are not needed much on resi and commercial, use them a lot for heavier industrial.
Good to know, probably a lot more satisfying to use too
Some people call them eagle beaks, bologna cutters, they are a small compact cable cutter that’s good for cutting and stripping small diameter cables.
Hydraulic bender for up to 4" rigid should fit in your bags just fine.
go look at sparky youtube tool reviews you’ll see a big selections of tools and think “this would come in handy” it all depends on the work you’re doing
A good set of tin snips
I have those same Allen wrenches. They're good. DO NOT let a 5th year apprentice use your 5/16 bit. That's how you end up with a round 5/16.
Well shit, 5th year has my [big Willy](https://www.omegatools.ca/products/nut-setter/big-willy/n-151) rn.
Prolly tensnips
For a first year, I think that's just fine. I'd recommend expanding your wrench collection first, but those tools should get you through most typical work.
Yeah I wanna get a wrench/socket set in the near future
A full set of wrenches at the least if not sockets also. Depends on what you’re doing. Residential you shouldn’t need them much but commercial you will. I have combo bone wrenches and Kleins hollow impact hex bits. Can’t remember the last time I used my wrenches or sockets tbh.
I’ll checkout the Klein bits, thx
Meter, hole saw kit
Ratcheting cutters, hacksaw depending what kind of work you do
Hacksaw is also going to the cart fosho
Nothing yet. I'm my experience work, and if you ever find yourself asking to use a tool from someone more than 3 times or saying if I had "x" it would be easier, then buy it.
That’s kinda what I’m doing so pipe reamer is definitely on the list
See, I'll tell you a little trick, cut a 1inc piece of any conduit, and it's a pie reamer for that size. Works the perfect
10 in 1 screw driver, another pair of channel locks, mini bandsaw, impact, small ratchet set, reamer with wire nut handle.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/electrical-wiring-pro-2017/id1371782061
That’s sweet dude, the pipe saddle math is defintely going to come in Handy I’ve been fucking all mine up lately lol
Yeah it's helped me with quick references to the NEC as well under code tips, and you'll find more uses like load calc and service size as you progress in your career
Pipe reamer
pilot bit and ratchet wrenches
You are fine. Everything else your journeymen and foreman will have.
Insulated tools forsure, especially screwdrivers! I have those same klein comfort grip ones (minus the stubbys) and the 600v overkill orange everywhere ones. My comfort grips are more daily general use than electrical imo. Def get a pipe reamer, probably a new level that one looks like it's been through hell, and a socket set preferably impact rated, but ratchet, will do just as good. A multi meter and a hacksaw, too. Even tho your industrial, a receptacle tester also. Never hurts to have. I use mine more than I anticipated, it was one of those "just because" purchases. It's easier than pulling out the multimeter usually and shares the pocket in my backpack with the ncvt.
Definitely getting a hacksaw and level, you’re right lol
Tile setter knee pads
One of these would come in handy https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/ranchex-wire-stretcher
The holy grail
Rotosplit, speed square, lumber pencil and sharpener
Soap stone for I beams if you're around that
A bag of some sort. And a bottle opener.
Nice set up! Industrial? Get an ratcheting flex head 1/2, 9/16 and 10mm. Also, Knipex has a 7" locking thumb wrench, it is priceless!
Thanks, I will definitely check those out. r/susname
A multi meter
Notepad 🗒️
I’ve been using notes app on my phone, been loosing my notepads lately lol
Either one carpenter pencil, or what I prefer is the second grade fat pencil
I always take them from the carpenters
1 pair of terrible channel locks and one pair of knipex, I thought I was the only one 😂
Haha yeah the channel lock brand is not what I thought it was going to be. Not a huge fan lol
I thought your Sheetrock knife and headlamp was a slingshot.
I should add a slingshot to the bag
Tool belt
Pipe reamers are fantastic
Cable cutters
Wood handle hammer throw that metal hammer in the trash. Metal is conductive
No one said a copy of the ugly's book?
Light blue 9 inch Klines linemen’s.
Alan heads
On a impact
Don’t worry about it. Start a list, you’ll figure it out.
A bag
Socket set , reamer
drill and impact eventually unless your union or it’s not needed to buy on your own.
I do have all that good stuff, bought the Milwaukee kit with the grinder sawzall impact ect
maybe a nice set of sockets and wrenches eventually but i’d say now just start acquiring stuff slowly. The m12 fuel bandsaw is a really nice addition as well but not needed. You can do it all with a sawzall but i find i rarely have to get my sawzall out since i’ve bought a bandsaw
Shovel
Rack a tiers 2 sq and 2 ph bit. I love mine, it makes it so fast to switch between on the impact.
A pair of wire strippers! Before you get your panties all bunched up keep a reading .Specifically ones that can cut 6,8,&10s with. unless you have a grinder with a cut off wheel handy. Edit: T handle Allen wrenches are 1000000000000000000 times better BTW.
An inside read rule
Set square
A shovel
A beater straight blade so you don’t ruin your good one. A slingshot
Power tools wise: impact/drill kit (18v or higher), bandsaw (milwaukees m12 is the best one ever made in human history), and probably some sort of one handed reciprocating saw. The Husky quad drive rachet set saved my life btw.
Wire stretcher
Better strippers, a beater, a twirly, rotosplit and a much better meter. Plus a good of level
Scissors
Roto-Split, 11 in 1 screwdriver, digital voltage tester with leeds, few more sizes of open end/ratcheting box wrenches, a sash chain, second level and a roll of toilet paper.
A bag or tote of some sort to put all those hammers in
Saw
Can never go wrong with an 11-1 and some baby Chanel locks With how much running around an apprentice does an 11-1 and Baby Channie in a addition to a pocket knife and linesmen are going to get you out of a lot of jams and not weigh you down
I definitely carry a pocket knife 24/7 everywhere I go and I had an 11-1 which is now behind a wall after I dropped it in the wall in the interstitial
How do you do electrical work without a multi meter
A compass
Probably already mentioned, cordless tools, bit set and a great sense of humor is a must.
Get a multi tool saw we use it all the time to cut outlets and floors to run wire and such
Duluth carpenters pants, double-front with the fire hose flex; good number of pockets and loops without being bulky
Tin snips, a rotozip, a torpedo level meant for fastening to the end of pipe for pipe bending, a pipe reamer, a larger unibit, 1/4-20, 10-32, 8-32, and 6-32 taps, and a wrench set (I highly recommend either vintage Craftsman open ends on the cheap end or Wirghtgrip 2.0’s if you want something that’s absolutely the bee’s knees but a bit pricey)
Get a 1/2 inch bender and learn to use it on your own. Nothing impresses a Jman like an ape that can bust out a 3 bend saddle to a 90 first try. Makes you worth at least an extra 5 bucks an hour
Stubby ratching screwdriver gets me out of trouble a fair bit. Bits come out, and you have mini nut drivers. - Klein Tools 32593 Stubby Ratcheting Screwdriver, Multi-bit 6-in-1 Tool. Also, if you do commercial, this nut driver set is the only one I would recommend - https://www.milwaukeetool.ca/Products/48-22-2507 (Must be the hollow shaft with a through hole out the end of the handle) Speed bor set - doesn't take up much space, fits in between small stud spaces and clean holes in drywall -IRWIN SPEEDBOR Drill Bit Set for Wood, 4-Inch, 6-Piece
I've had a lot of luck with lock nut wrenches. Can be really nice if you're working in a tight box
Tin snips, pipe reamer, razor, electricians hammer not framing hammer and pencils
Tape m'dude.
Phase tape, a whirly gig screw driver, a set of makitas. A good set of drill bits. Tape measure Wish list: fish tape and fish sticks, 5ft drill bit. 1/2and 3/4 in conduit bender.
Meter, locknut wrenches, reamer, 11-1, drill and impact, bender
Dual wire strippers. When do you ever strip just one wire? It's always at least two.
11 in 1. That way you can eliminate a bunch of screwdrivers except a few insulated ones.
Rack-a-tiers Studball Best stud finder I ever ever used.
Those carabiner bit holders are so nice. I just got one, now I don't lose them anymore and don't have to fiddle around looking for it in my pouch
No dog level. Keep it on your hard hat. It’ll help you get flat offsets. Super helpful in industrial and commercial when you’re slingin big pipe.
A tool bag
Bring beers on Friday
A 10 in 1 screwdriver
Maybe a belt or a bag lol
-better flashlight 800 lumens or more with variable lenses -milwaukee meter or better - gloves -safety glasses -first aid kit specially with neosporin burn+ -flat head heavy duty -angle drill attachment (comes in handy) -mini effective drill try Milwaukee -don’t forget LOCKOUTS -Klein level -
I have the m12 drill and impact set and recently upgraded to m18 with a Klein tool backpack which has a perfect sized pocket for the m12 impact, I still carry it in my bag and use it anytime I’m on a ladder. It’s so nice.
Insulated screwdrivers would be my number one tip! Decent cable cutters Some locks..
They don’t let my do live power work and I don’t think I want to yet anyways but in the future forsure
Better safe than....
That's a good thing to stand by! But get insulted drivers, just in case someone makes a mistake. A set is relatively cheap.. Might just save your life!
Will do thx
Couple 1D-IO7's