Becoming Electrician - Tool Recommendations

[Cypress]

Hello All,

I am leaving the world of Architecture and have decided to go into the trades. Electrician's apprentice to be specific. Tired of office life... but I won't dive into my grief with that.

I am wondering what you're recommendations are for a beginner / Day 1 rookie in field to show up with at the first job site.

Main questions:

1. Do I need bags for Day 1?
2. Do I need a tool bag for Day 1?
3. Klein vs. Knipex?
4. Insulated tools or no? Specifically which tools should be insulated.

I have put together a list so far below of some of the main tools I think I need. Let me know if I'm way off on any of this. Keep in mind, this is just for Day 1.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions.

thanks in advance!

Tool List:

Knipex Diagonal Cutters: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X4OFUE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Knipex Lineman Pliers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EXNVZ4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

1. Wera Screwdriver Set: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085NTQJK/?tag=atomicindus08-20

2. Knipex Screwdriver Set: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FT2V09E/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Milwaukee 11 in 1 Screwdriver Set: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003I85GU0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Knipex Channel Locks: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X4J2HU/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Klein Wire strippers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00080DPNQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Empire Torpedo Level: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00067F5M0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Stanley Fat Max 25’ Tape Measure: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Stanley...VrjizAB0cngBYEAQYAyABEgLjx_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Milwaukee Impact Driver.

 

[Bad Habit]

I'm assuming your not signed up as a Union Apprentice, which isn't good or bad, but they do have a lot of information available. It can really depend on the work you're getting into and how it will evolve. Day 1 probably don't need everything, by day 5 you'll have a good idea.

Here is a tool list put out by Local 113
http://ibew113.com/tool-list/

 

[Bert_]

I like an open top tool bag. Also a tool belt but only put in the tools you need for that job, don't carry every hand tool you own if you don't need it.

I've had a few knipex pliers and don't really see the draw to it. I just as soon have a regular pair of channel locks. I do have a the Klein linesman pliers and side cutter and recommend them. The Klein wire strippers are the only ones to consider.

I've got some Klein screwdrivers and some MasterForce too for the ones I don't use constantly. They are about as likely to get lost as they are broken so I I try not to spend too much money. Bought a Craftsman set from Menards while back for my helper. Couldn't beat it for $14.

A couple nut drivers would be a good addition. 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8 would be perfect. 7/16 is good too

I wouldn't buy any cordless tools to start with anyway. Around here the employer usually provides that but I understand other parts of the country are different.

No insulated tools.

 

[engineer2]

Search the forum for "Electricians tools". There are some threads with good info. A lot will depend on who you are working for and what type of work they do. Most apprentices start out doing residential and branch out from there. Worked with a woman whose well-paid husband was an electrician for high voltage transmission lines. Here is a web page with some of the types of electricians. https://www.homestratosphere.com/types-of-electricians/

 

[Cypress]

I'm assuming your not signed up as a Union Apprentice, which isn't good or bad, but they do have a lot of information available. It can really depend on the work you're getting into and how it will evolve. Day 1 probably don't need everything, by day 5 you'll have a good idea.

Here is a tool list put out by Local 113
http://ibew113.com/tool-list/

I like an open top tool bag. Also a tool belt but only put in the tools you need for that job, don't carry every hand tool you own if you don't need it.

I've had a few knipex pliers and don't really see the draw to it. I just as soon have a regular pair of channel locks. I do have a the Klein linesman pliers and side cutter and recommend them. The Klein wire strippers are the only ones to consider.

I've got some Klein screwdrivers and some MasterForce too for the ones I don't use constantly. They are about as likely to get lost as they are broken so I I try not to spend too much money. Bought a Craftsman set from Menards while back for my helper. Couldn't beat it for $14.

A couple nut drivers would be a good addition. 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8 would be perfect. 7/16 is good too

I wouldn't buy any cordless tools to start with anyway. Around here the employer usually provides that but I understand other parts of the country are different.

No insulated tools.

Great info. Thank you!

 

[Cypress]

Search the forum for "Electricians tools". There are some threads with good info. A lot will depend on who you are working for and what type of work they do. Most apprentices start out doing residential and branch out from there. Worked with a woman whose well-paid husband was an electrician for high voltage transmission lines. Here is a web page with some of the types of electricians. https://www.homestratosphere.com/types-of-electricians/

I'll def check that out. Thanks!

 

[sberry]

I am going to agree with nut drivers, 1/4, 5/16 and 7/16 for a starter and skip the insulated for a bit. Whoops, just should have copied Bert
One more thing. Stanley retractor utility knife quick change. There are a thousand opinions about knives, forget all that ****. Use that and make it a reflex to pull the blade completely in every stroke. I dont even lay it on the table with it out, in every time.
I might add a couple adjustable. I rather use an 8 or a 12 most of the time if I gotta pack in in a pouch a 10. A couple sharpies. 20 oz nail hammer close by.
I would be happy for a new hand to show up with that on day 1. Stores are so good anymore can stop after work and score a little something you need if and when. This is the kind of thing a guy can collect as you go for the most part.

 

[Bert_]

Here's mine. Didn't mention a knife before but that's a must. Either a hook blade knife or utility knife. Each has it's place. I carry both.

 

[Cypress]

Here's mine. Didn't mention a knife before but that's a must. Either a hook blade knife or utility knife. Each has it's place. I carry both.

Thanks for the info Bert. Appreciate it.

What bags would you recommend for a newbie?

A part of me doesn't really want to show up my first day and have too much gear but I also don't want to show up and be under prepared, if that makes any sense lol.

 

[Cypress]

I am going to agree with nut drivers, 1/4, 5/16 and 7/16 for a starter and skip the insulated for a bit. Whoops, just should have copied Bert
One more thing. Stanley retractor utility knife quick change. There are a thousand opinions about knives, forget all that ****. Use that and make it a reflex to pull the blade completely in every stroke. I dont even lay it on the table with it out, in every time.
I might add a couple adjustable. I rather use an 8 or a 12 most of the time if I gotta pack in in a pouch a 10. A couple sharpies. 20 oz nail hammer close by.
I would be happy for a new hand to show up with that on day 1. Stores are so good anymore can stop after work and score a little something you need if and when. This is the kind of thing a guy can collect as you go for the most part.

noted and thanks Berry!

 

[unslow1]

Make sure you ask the person in charge of where you apprentice. When I did it nonunion I was not allowed to carry anything of my own. No tools in and no tools out. That went for commercial and residential work. I did it for more than two years under two guys and that policy never changed. I did ask why that was. They said tools don't go home with someone and jobs aren't held up because someone forgot a tool.

 

[Taco Truck]

The term "bags" is used a lot to refer to your tool belt. If you're asking about what toolbelt you should get I can't recommend Boulder Bags enough. Easily the best bang for your buck. If you're asking about actual tool bags Vetos are fantastic quality and laid out really well. They're expensive though. The Husky bags are a very good budget option that a lot of electricians use.

From a previous comment of mine.

I'd just contact the organization you plan to do your apprenticeship through and ask for a tool list if they have one. If it's union there will very likely be a tool list. If it's nonunion they may not. Go from there. Work on getting everything on that list.

Klein is well regarded in the electrical trade, but they're a little overrated in my opinion. I have plenty of Klein stuff, but it requires taking a close look when I'm buying it to make sure it's in good shape because their quality control is lacking these days. I think they make terrible benders, rotosplits, and Channellocks. Other brands to look into are Ideal (who makes the best strippers in my opinion), Greenlee very selectively, Southwire very selectively, Wiha, Felo, Wera (though I'm not a fan), Knipex, and Milwaukee. Things like levels and drywall saws are usually rebranded for Klien so don't pay the premium for them. Eklind and Bondhus make great allen wrenches.

To start you should get:
-Nine inch linesman pliers
-Two sets of Channellocks at about ten inches (I caution against Klein here unless they're the NWS made version)
-A pair of eight inch dikes
-Seven inch needle nose pliers
-Strippers (consider a pair of stripper needle nose combos. Klein and Milwaukee both make a pair)
-A drywall saw (Don't spend a lot of money here)
-A plug tester
-A hot stick
-A six or nine inch torpedo level with rare earth magnets
-An 8"adjustable wrench (I'm a big fan of the Protos though Bahco is well regarded too. Also, consider a pair of Knipex pliers wrenches)
-A set of allen keys up to 3/8" though 1/2" is even better
-A multibit screwdriver (Klein is the gold standard here)
-A large flathead beater screwdriver (Don't spend a lot of money. A Husky will work just fine)
-A stubby multi bit screwdriver (I really like my Wiha)
-A set of SAE nut drivers (get the one that have a hollow shaft all the way through. Klein, Greenlee, Lenox, Xcellite, and I think Milwaukee)
-A 25' tape measure (I'm a **** for the Fat Max)
-A utility knife (The folding and retracting Dewalt is my favorite)
-A claw hammer with a soft face. Waffle faces increase the chances of ******* up Romex. Don't spend a lot of money.
-A set of crimpers unless your strippers or linesman pliers have them (though I still prefer a dedicated pair)
-Sharpie, pen, pencil, and notepad! Have these on you always. Take notes!
-A bag for all of it
-Good boots

Eventually consider getting:
-A set of ratcheting wrenches in SAE
-An SAE socket set with ratchet, sockets, extensions, universal joint, and allens
-A full screwdriver set
-Drill, driver, sawzall unless you're planning on going the union route
-Hacksaw if you can't afford a sawzall
-A good multimeter
-Screw holding screwdrivers
-Rotosplit if you'll be using MC.

Personally I think that you shouldn't need to provide benders, fishtapes, or consumables especially since you're essentially working as a pre-apprentice.

Don't go so crazy on tools that you don't have good boots and pants. Those are just as, if not more, important as hand tools.

Also, I'm an electrician in Colorado and have been for a while, so feel free to PM me with questions. I've worked for a few contractors, and have dealt with many more as a maintenance electrician, and may be able to give you some info on them before you take a job.

 

[Cypress]

The term "bags" is used a lot to refer to your tool belt. If you're asking about what toolbelt you should get I can't recommend Boulder Bags enough. Easily the best bang for your buck. If you're asking about actual tool bags Vetos are fantastic quality and laid out really well. They're expensive though. The Husky bags are a very good budget option that a lot of electricians use.

From a previous comment of mine.



Don't go so crazy on tools that you don't have good boots and pants. Those are just as, if not more, important as hand tools.


Also, I'm an electrician in Colorado and have been for a while, so feel free to PM me with questions. I've worked for a few contractors, and have dealt with many more as a maintenance electrician, and may be able to give you some info on them before you take a job.

That is a very thorough list. Thank you and I'll shoot you a PM if I think of any questions I might have.

EDIT: PM sent.

 

[ZRX61]

Read a book by a guy who was from Tibet. Studying electrics in China & it turned out his skin was naturally so dry that it wouldn't conduct electricity. He could touch live wires without getting shocked... which lead to shenanigans when he'd hand a live wire to another student..


So today's Lesson One: Watch out for Tibetan electricians

 

[richfinn]

My Sparky had a Veto pro pac last time he came to do some work at the house, I made him give me a tool tour, cool bag

 

[Robbie B]

I like this guy’s videos. He’s pretty good about covering the bases. Watch the top most video first then the part two below it.

 

[Robinson1]

First day you'll be fine with a Klein 10 in 1 a pair of linesman pliers and a utility knife

 

[Dave455]

I do a bit, but I’ll caution what I’m about to say with the caveat that I’m in another country, using different fittings, different standards, and a different voltage!

I reckon that your list is more than would be expected for day one, if nobody has told you different!

As an apprentice you will probably be starting more by cutting and fixing than actual wiring, but it’s all part of the job.

Tools that you will probably need first are basics such as the tape measure and marking tools. The tape you have chosen is fine, but those big tapes can be very cumbersome so I’d include a slimmer 10’ one. I love the pica pencils and markers, which are one of the few ranges of pencils and pens designed for the tasks you will be doing. The Marxman markers are great too, especially installing electrical fittings.

Whatever level you have make sure it’s easy to read. I like the totally transparent ones. Get some general purpose screwdrivers first, you will be fiddling with wood screws and self tappers far more than terminal screws. Consider an electricians hammer too. Vaughan make a nice one.

And enjoy...! The days pass much faster doing this sort of work than in an office, and you will probably never be out of work!

 

[ssdave]

....

 

[oldcarpenter]

Around here rookie electricians only need a shovel.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[Cypress]

I do a bit, but I’ll caution what I’m about to say with the caveat that I’m in another country, using different fittings, different standards, and a different voltage!

I reckon that what your list is more than would be expected for day one, if nobody has told you different!

As an apprentice you will probably be starting more by cutting and fixing than actual wiring, but it’s all part of the job.

Tools that you will probably need first are basics such as the tape measure and marking tools. The tape you have chosen is fine, but those big tapes can be very cumbersome so I’d include a slimmer 10’ one. I love the pica pencils and markers, which are one of the few ranges of pencils and pens designed for the tasks you will be doing. The Marxman markers are great too, especially installing electrical fittings.

Whatever level you have make sure it’s easy to read. I like the totally transparent ones. Get some general purpose screwdrivers first, you will be fiddling with wood screws and self tappers far more than terminal screws. Consider an electricians hammer too. Vaughan make a nice one.

And enjoy...! The days pass much faster doing this sort of work than in an office, and you will probably never be out of work!

Sound advice. Thank you for taking the time to post your thoughts. appreciate it.

 

[Cypress]

Here's my 95% use electricians tools. That picture shows one extra pair of needlenose and an automatic stripper that wouldn't normally be in there, these were laid out for a remote job I was preparing for, and with 11 hours of drive time, I didn't want to forget anything. I'm not a licensed electrician, but have journeyman level skills, education, and experience due to working in exempt status for a lot of years.

Those would be in my belt, except for the meter which stays in the case with the leads, the automatic stripper, and one less set of needlenose. Missing is a black sharpie.

In a tool box or bag, I'd have channellocks, hacksaw, hammer, nail pry bar, drill,1/4" impact and bits, couple of adjustables, a wood chisel and a cold chisel, and an assortment container with electrical screws, a few wire nuts, ground screws, drywall screws, etc. for quick picks, not for general use, the job will have the materials generally needed.

I'd expect the company to have a slugbuster set, rotohammer and bits, reciprocating saw and blades, conduit benders, tracers and testers and other instruments, and other similar big stuff.

Very helpful list. Thank you!

 

[KnurledNut]

Good gloves, a broom, and a dustpan.
I know you think im kidding but...

 

[Cypress]

First purchase based on your guys’ wisdom. Thank you all for the input.

 

[Cypress]

Good gloves, a broom, and a dustpan.
I know you think im kidding but...

Good. Sounds like less stress. Thats what im looking for.

 

[ssdave]

....

 

[Cypress]

Of the half dozen pairs of multi-function strippers I have, I like the ones like you bought the best. Except the latch, that took some getting used to, but it works hands free on mine once you understand how to orient the tool and squeeze right. I detest the 10 in 1 tools, but they're a necessity for quick troubleshooting to minimize number of tools. The latest one I had was Milwaukee, I lent it to someone out of my truck a while back and didn't ask for it back.

The other thing you'll want to put in your belt, out of the company supplies, of course, is a roll of black vinyl tape. That'll be an every day part of your life from now on. I usually have a roll of black, and one of white and one of red in my belt all the time. Use the black to hold things, repair nicks, etc and the white and red continuously for phasing wires.

Good to hear the strippers were a solid purchase. The 11-1 screwdriver was brought up in a bunch of vids i watched and listed as a tool i should get by my buddy who is a journeyman at the company im gonna start at.

Also, ya def will throw some tape in the bag.

Thx for the insight dave.

 

[engineer2]

He could touch live wires without getting shocked

Some of the union guys had such thick calluses on their hands they would show off by twisting up live 120 VAC.

 

[Pingel85]

Do you know what type of work you’ll be doing? Is it a “do-all” shop, or do they specialize in an area? I’ve never done residential, only commercial/industrial, a lot of healthcare remodels, so my list would be slightly different than a residential sparky.

As others have noted, they don’t expect you to walk on 1st day and take the world by storm. If you have a good journeyman, they’ll lend you what you need for the day, and you can grab it that evening on the way home for the next day. It looks like you already have a good start.

The biggest thing to bring is a positive attitude and willingness to learn. That’ll take you way farther with the company than any tool you buy.

Personally, I recommend a backpack. Klein and Milwaukee both make good ones. Lots of pockets, easy to carry, and keeps your hands empty for carrying other supplies.

 

[Cypress]

Do you know what type of work you’ll be doing? Is it a “do-all” shop, or do they specialize in an area? I’ve never done residential, only commercial/industrial, a lot of healthcare remodels, so my list would be slightly different than a residential sparky.

As others have noted, they don’t expect you to walk on 1st day and take the world by storm. If you have a good journeyman, they’ll lend you what you need for the day, and you can grab it that evening on the way home for the next day. It looks like you already have a good start.

The biggest thing to bring is a positive attitude and willingness to learn. That’ll take you way farther with the company than any tool you buy.

Personally, I recommend a backpack. Klein and Milwaukee both make good ones. Lots of pockets, easy to carry, and keeps your hands empty for carrying other supplies.

Thx man.

It’ll be almost exclusively residential in my area. Your comment about a positive attitude etc is a great point. Im a bit stressed that im gonna be a worthless dead weight but hopefully just a good mindset is enough for the beginning.

 

[unslow1]

You won't be a dead weight even if all you do is help fish wires and put on outlet covers. I installed a ton of ceiling light and fans. Wire fishing almost always takes two people and you will make productivity go way up just fetching tools. It's like a mechanic that has someone just bringing in and out the cars. That saves a ton of time.

 

[sberry]

Also,,, if there is shoveling to be done rip it right out of the next guys hands, jump right in first. They will get rid of 2 genius types for one will shovel a couple hours, often let him sit on the tailgate a good part of the day after he is done. Read up a little on it.

 

[frankush]

Totally agree with this. Don't be afraid to get dirty. The most important thing you can do is LISTEN to what you are told to do and then do it.

 

[jtitus07]

Basic hand tools as an apprentice. Kleins, strippers, screwdrivers, etc. You'll be doing mostly grunt work to start. Don't spend money on insulated yet as they won't let you anywhere near an energized panel for awhile. As you work, you'll see the stuff that other guys have that might make your work easier and you'll figure out what to invest in. As for storage, belts, etc. Start with some cheaper stuff to figure out what you like, then buy better versions of that stuff as you go. Would hate to spend the money on a certain Veto only to find out you prefer a different style.

 

[sberry]

This isnt a kid, this is an educated guy. I doubt he will punk for long.

 

[sberry]

Around here rookie electricians only need a shovel.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I see you mentioned this,, I did in a later post also. Its not a bad idea, its simple and when layoff time comes a guy wouldnt be the first to go if his hands are wrapped around it. There are times and places I dont mind some.
I knew a young guy, I mentioned it a couple times when he simply lucked in to inside wireman all cozy fussy job. Figured he would be at it forever and he was a gift, when the first speed bump hit he was gone.
I had another good bud, a couple of them said the best 3 years I ever had was with a shovel. He said he went to work for a plumbing company and they put him with an ornery lazy old fart no one wanted to work with.
So, no one pestered them and said they got jobs where he would be about half a day or so and all the guy cared about was he didnt have to dig, said he worked about 2 hours and handed the guy a few things and then it seems after lunch there wasnt much to do and the guy had no problem driving around most of the afternoon till it was time to head towards the shop.
Said he was sad it had to end really.

 

[jeffmoss26]

Klein!

 

[engineer2]

When one of my relatives was an apprentice electrician he had to carry a bundles of 1/2 EMT on each shoulder and run it up to different floors of a new condo, then go do it again. IBEW jobs paid well but you had to bust *** all day. Slackers got sent back to the union hall. If your EMT runs weren't pretty, you got a load of **** for it and had to re-do it.

 

[ssdave]

.....

 

[unslow1]

Klein!

I hear that a lot and he will figure out his preferences. Most of the guys I worked with preferred Ideal and Channellock stuff. Just the experience saved myself, friends and family a ton of money. Sure I'll put up that ceiling fan but you're buying dinner. Just last week a friend and I went through my grandparents place before we put it on the market. It had half the house that electrical wasn't working for a few years. We got all but three outlets working in an hour. Two of those three I just needed to get misc from my house to get going.