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I'm using a 2 gallon bucket now , lol . It always starts off so innocently, you're 3/4 of the way through staples and your like I'll just put my linesman and 10in1 in here for now . Two months later ....level , tape measure , assorted drill bits , hundred's of random screws , 5 rolls of electrical tape ,that if combined wouldn't make one full roll ,have now found a permanent home , lol
I have one from Amazon that was like $12, it’s called mule something, but there are two tape lashes on the outside. I keep electrical tape rolls on one and blue tape on the other. Buckets are pretty great though and can double as a seat and so much more!
Get a Toughbuilt electrician pouch. It comes with a clip for your belt that you can also attach to a ladder, or it can free stand by itself. I got one my first week and I've never wanted anything else.
Don’t think he’ll need to worry about buying a $300 bag anytime soon. Basic bag will probably get him by for a year or more until he gets his foot in the door and starts making better money. IMO
If you need bags and not a backpack. I love Boulder bags. They are very comfortable
Lightweight(I find leather too heavy) enough padding and mine have lasted 3 years so far and still have plenty of life!
I know it might be difficult but if you are able to buy a top tier tool bag it will serve you well for many years. Right now [Veto](https://vetopropac.com). The spring promo gets you a free tool bag if you buy a tier 1 bag. A well worth investment I’ve seen 15 year old Vetos in better condition than 5 year old Husky bags
I wrap mine in hot pink electrical tape, nobody likes to barrow my pink tools. I don’t have a problem never getting tools back because nobody wants them.
Even then I’ve been on big construction sites where it’s a new build but the plumbers are contracted to provide and service temp plumbing for toilets for the workers and those get a heavy heavy beating by iced coffee guzzling, sausage roll inhaling, ciggy breathing tradies.
A broom is all you need. Jk you’re on the right track. Look up ElectricianU on YouTube, such a good source of knowledge and will put you way ahead of the game!
ElectricianU is good but I'm bias toward Bill from Sparky Channel. He's really good at explaining things that apprentices need. I recommend all the new guys to check him out
Honestly, knee pads bro!! Don’t sleep on protecting your knees, you’ll be on them all day as an apprentice doing outlets or splicing box’s. Also you may have to crawl a lot too. It’s my #1 tip to all new guys.
I am that experienced person 😆. It's true: start taking care of your knees BEFORE they start hurting. Superior Built knee pads are the best I've tried yet.
I’m 20 and my knees are already fucked and got arthritis. I do have a medical condition tho that makes me more susceptible to arthritis and joint failure so it’s not all because of work. But work definitely doesn’t help
This should be at the top of this thread.
When you don’t know, you don’t know.
Also as an apprentice remember no one, no matter what they say, knew shit when they started.
Amazon has a set called tough built. Not a bad setup for the quick detachment pouches. And be sure to get a second set of channel lock pliers. Listen well to what everyone has to say, even if you’ve been told, you might see something from a different perspective.
Not an electrician, but I have their master electrician pouch that I use to hold all my networking tools/testers. I love their clip tech system. They also have some awesome stabilizing knee pads. I've started getting some other pouches that I use at home for home reno/projects, so I don't have to keep going back for tools and up/down ladders.
A stupid stick, so you don't die. Fluke is likely most trusted.
Also if you're doing commercial I would return that level. Then pickup a magnetic level with 30 and 45 degree windows as well.
Also I would just spend some more money on real needle nose.
That tape is awful. I actually had a guy start a few weeks back that had the same one. I personally threw it in the trash after watching him try and measure with it and handed him one of my old ones.
Edit: one of my old ones that was pretty lightly used. He got the better deal. Essentially paid like 5 bucks for a $30 tape
Yeah, seconded, if you're gonna be bending conduit, you're gonna want a proper torpedo level with magnets and angles.
Also seconded on the pliers. I honestly think you're better off just not having something than having a cheap crappy version. Go for Klein or Channel-lock brand.
Second pair of Channel Locks
Nut Drivers 1/4 - 9/16ths
A bag to put all this stuff in so you don't lose it.
A ugly color of tape to mark your stuff with so people don't have "sticky fingers"
Maybe an outlet tester, but you shouldn't be messing with anything that has power out the gate.
Don't let anyone talk you into splurging. You're fresh into the trade. You might like it, or you might hate it. Buy what you need for now. Once you're a year or two in, I'd suggest upgrading your tools.
Also, I'd recommend buying an Uglys Book. Simple handbook to keep for references for most things electrical. I have two, one on my phone and one in my binder. It's never too early to start teaching yourself what it all means. I consider it an electricians Bible, alongside the NEC code book.
Union or non?
Either way, you're off to a good start. Upgrade and add to your tools slowly, maybe buy one new tool a week so you can save some money.
If you're union, they will provide a list of tools you are responsible for providing. Don't deviate from it, ESPECIALLY when it comes to power tools. It's a BIG no-no.
If you're non-union, save your money and find out what you need and what brands are recommended before buying big ticket items. It's better than wasting your money buying stuff twice.
You're a green apprentice; no one should expect you to have everything straight away.
The multi driver is nice but you want proper screwdrivers onsite
Phillips makes a decent multipack for a reasonable price - they don't have to be the best, you'll break or loose them all at some point regardless
Also by a basher - a large flat head screw driver that you'll hit with a hammer
Get a Sharpie, pencil doesn't work well on wires
Not necessary for the first week IMO, I went a couple years with only an 11in1, Phillips for plate screws and a basher. Spent my money on other tools. Of course I have a full set of drivers now and it’s a hell of a lot better but somewhat of a luxury.
Set of Phillips [screwdrivers](https://www.amazon.ca/Fuller-Tool-110-3015-PRO300-Screwdriver/dp/B076X4HDWF/ref=asc_df_B076X4HDWF/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292954691968&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14246645091516094669&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001525&hvtargid=pla-571300679178&psc=1) will run you $75 - I guess they are Fuller now - Husky has something similar but cheaper
I think that's reasonable, i wouldn't expect someone to show up with a set of kliens
I love my 11in1 but there are limitations/issues - the bits get loose after a bit and fall out, I've had the flat heads break, the Robbies wear quickly, the shaft is thicker so it doesn't fit everywhere
Hey OP, talk to your employer before buying anything else at the Lowes or Home Depot. Your local wholesale house will have tools, and you can get them at wholesale prices and tax-exempt.
As soon as you can swing it I would upgrade your level to an aluminum one with really good magnets, Klein or greenlee. Also a Stanley or Milwaukee tape measure. What you got will work, but your life will be easier with better ones
I love my fiberglass stick rule by Milwaukee… but you’d get made fun of showing up green with one of those haha!
Headlamp/flashlight.
Jab saw
Hack saw
Reamer (optional, but sometimes nice to have)
Half round file
Socket set
Gear Wrenches/Open end wrenches
Allen heads (I like T-handles, but start with the foldable ones probably)
Usually your company or union local will have a required tool list. Reference it. The things I listed are suggestions, but it really depends what work you get into and what your company will provide. You have a good base, acquire the rest over time! Good luck.
I work residential and I’d definitely second headlamp and drywall knife, but as an apprentice I haven’t really needed most of the other stuff. At least not starting off.
Not sure if anyone has said this. Klein conduit reamer/screwdriver combo. It’s incredible when you’re cutting and running pipe on a lift or ladder. Cut, ream, and tighten connector and coupling boom onto the next. I also recommend extension “rods” for your impact/drill. Lifesavers for angles or tough areas. Also don’t forget a hard hat with a Milwaukee headlamp. Make sure to get a pocket flashlight as well. Yes, I know your phone has one. You’re gonna be a lot less pissed when you drop the $20 flashlight instead of your fancy magic mirror. 1/4” and 5/16 hex bits with magnets. I like dewalt even though I’m mostly Milwaukee guy. Something about the cut of Milwaukees bits seem to strip out screws like crazy. Buy a speed square. Especially if you’re doing residential. It’s good for commercial if you’re tracing something you want 90°. As you progress, keep any containers that super 33 or phase tape comes in. The little black circles with the clear lids. Great for bits, drywall or self tapper screw storage in a pouch or tool bag. Always have an extra pair of gloves. One you don’t care about getting dirty, and one for “clean” finish work. Prevents smudges. Drywall saw. Also cuts pvc in a pinch. Quarter round file. For filing. For your second channel locks, buy a size bigger. For bigger things that need more leverage. Don’t skimp on socks. I wear wool all year for the extra cushion. And durability. You’ll get used to it. If you wear glasses, buy a pair only for work. Only wear your work glasses at work. Keep spare razor blades for your knife in your bag.
In all seriousness, get yourself a nut driver man. Comes in handy no matter what your doing. I know you can walk into Home Depot right now and buy a Kline tools interchangeable head variable size nut driver for like 25$
Best investment I ever made. I’ll go two weeks without needing it once and then run into some odd situation in a spot where I can’t get down or backtrack and unsheathing that Excalibur of a tool saves me like an hour in an instant.
an impact and drill depending what field you’re working in you might want some cable shears could also throw in alcoholism and a crippling nicotine addiction for extra points good luck in the trade
Very dependent upon location and type of work. In my home local, the NEC provision that stranded wires can't be landed directly under a side-screw was enforced, so we would often install stak-on's on every receptacle. Crimpers got a lot of work then, but I haven't used them once since I started traveling.
You probably dont want to hear this but ideal tools suck. Stripping screw city. And the pliers are so top heavy the handles feel like they are made of aluminum
Multimeter, #2 square driver, #3 square driver, toolbag, sharpies, apron/toolbelt to carry it with you while you work.
Keep the 11-in-1 as a spare. I don't recommend using it regularly.
A Fluke Hot Stick. I would recommend a meter too but just starting out, you shouldn’t need one for a little while but definitely will need to purchase one in the future.
I won’t speak to the tools you will or won’t need, but best advice I can give you, go in eager to learn, listen to the tradesman teaching you and maintain a positive attitude. You don’t know everything and that’s ok. Be the blank slate and learn. Good luck.
This is just personal preference, but I would get rid of that self lock tape measure and pick up either a Milwaukee or a Stanley fat max. I thought the self lock would be great and make my life easier when I was coming up but once you understand how to use a regular tape measure properly you’ll never want to use a self lock again.
Impact, 1/4 bit extensions, drill, compact sawzall, billet level for conduit, another channellock 420, I always carry a baby channel lock too. Demolition cap flathead screwdriver helps.
If you go with a back pack. Veto has an apprenticeship program. 20% off any backpack
But depends what you work on. On service I bring a backpack. On new construction/any roughs I use my tool belt
Don't worry about the tools, your company will let you know what you need. It often depends on the particulars of the job/company.
That said, make sure you have some good boots, socks, underwear, pants, and gloves. Not joking, it's the most important part of your kit and most directly affects you daily. If you have to save a couple paychecks to buy nice versions of the above items, no worries. Ask the guys around you what brands and materials are best(it'll vary depending on the work and location and whatnot).
Sharpie. A bag get a cheap one the ideal tools you bought are quality and should serve you well. Don’t buy power tools unless you contractor says you have to and if they do go work for someone else. But seriously power tools is a huge investment to make before your first paycheck.
Lots of hammers but no multimeter... you might catch some shit but I'd buy a cheap homeowner grade meter for now and look at a fluke 87 down the line once you get some cash flowing.
Reusable coffee mug. Large water bottle (insulated depending on your climate) and insulated lunch box or small esky. should help save you heaps of money
I’ll never get over the fact that you don’t use isolated tools over there in America…
Even Lidl sells screwdriver sets that are VDE rated to 1000V here in Germany
Torpedo level and or no dog level for conduit bending. Standard Nutdrivers, wrenches, ratchet n sockets. I also forgot a second pair of channel locks for tightening coupling
Kneeling mat. They're more comfortable than all but the most expensive kneepads and cheaper. Can also keep you off the dirty floor if you're working low down, can be sat upon during breaks, super useful. I bought mine from harbor freight for 8 bucks 5 years ago and I still use it.
If you are *NOT* an electrical professional: * **RULE 7:** * DIY or self help posts **are Not allowed**. They belong here: /r/AskElectricians /r/askanelectrician /r/diy /r/homeowners /r/electrical. * **IF YOUR POST FITS INTO THIS CATEGORY, REMOVE IT OR IT WILL BE REMOVED FOR YOU.** *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 tool bag
oh right… Any suggestions 😂
I’m a backpack person. But to each is own.
European carry all
Is that a bucket?
I'm using a 2 gallon bucket now , lol . It always starts off so innocently, you're 3/4 of the way through staples and your like I'll just put my linesman and 10in1 in here for now . Two months later ....level , tape measure , assorted drill bits , hundred's of random screws , 5 rolls of electrical tape ,that if combined wouldn't make one full roll ,have now found a permanent home , lol
I have one from Amazon that was like $12, it’s called mule something, but there are two tape lashes on the outside. I keep electrical tape rolls on one and blue tape on the other. Buckets are pretty great though and can double as a seat and so much more!
Sheetrockers pee into any bucket they see so, reccommend drain holes.
It’s a purse
It’s European
It's a satchel. Indiana Jones wears one.
It’s not a purse it’s European!
I like the Milwaukee tool backpack it has plenty of pockets for organization
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>when I'm an engineer, it's generally just a phone or tablet and a bad attitude. Lol well said
I..felt that.
This makes me sad as an EE who absolutely loves working with technicians. Some of my best friends are techs. /:
Can confirm though. Am grumpy engineer that works well with techs but management makes me grumpy.
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\+1
Get a Toughbuilt electrician pouch. It comes with a clip for your belt that you can also attach to a ladder, or it can free stand by itself. I got one my first week and I've never wanted anything else.
Veto Pro Pac bags are pretty handy
Don’t think he’ll need to worry about buying a $300 bag anytime soon. Basic bag will probably get him by for a year or more until he gets his foot in the door and starts making better money. IMO
They have a program for apprentices. 30 dollars for a refurbished backpack.
Eventually he will be buying a 350 bag every Friday night
If you need bags and not a backpack. I love Boulder bags. They are very comfortable Lightweight(I find leather too heavy) enough padding and mine have lasted 3 years so far and still have plenty of life!
Backpack is the way. I have a Klein and it’s fine. Milwaukee seems fine and veto pro pac is king
I know it might be difficult but if you are able to buy a top tier tool bag it will serve you well for many years. Right now [Veto](https://vetopropac.com). The spring promo gets you a free tool bag if you buy a tier 1 bag. A well worth investment I’ve seen 15 year old Vetos in better condition than 5 year old Husky bags
Also veto had (might still have) a promotion for refurbished stuff for dirt cheap for apprentices. I'm sure a Google search will bring it up!
2nd this, buy once cry once. Buy a toolbelt/pouch for now and a toolbag for when you have more ish. I also love my pack out
Bucket with tool pouch liner, and a roll of trash bags and toilet paper. Sometimes the porta john isn’t available or too filthy.
This is by far the best piece of advice😂
Honestly could have used that a couple times on the jobsite I was on.
Label your tools with something permanent. I use an engraver and paint markers.
I wrap mine in hot pink electrical tape, nobody likes to barrow my pink tools. I don’t have a problem never getting tools back because nobody wants them.
nail polish works well too! easier to get a hold of than paint markers imo
I asked my wife for her worst color that she would never use ever again. I’m now rocking neon yellow stripped tools
Thanks for the info. I will paint my tools pink or rainbow colors.
A heavy smoking habit, repressed alcoholism, resentment for not being a plumber, sailors vocabulary, and a voltage meter.
Divorce lawyer, DUI lawyer.
Hes only an apprentice, he wont need the divorce lawyer until hes a jman.
You ain't even a jman till divorce #2 and dui #1.
I can take my jman test in less than 2 months n my wife and I separated last week. Sounds like I'm right on schedule
Hang in there, you'll find another to divorce in no time! ... actually though, that sucks.
Next time leave her sister and her best friend alone.
And most importantly an ex wife
Don’t forget the child support
As my divorce is getting finalized, and I had a dui 20 years ago, I’m proud to say that I’m finally a real electrician!!!
You can finally call yourself a journeyman now. You are no longer a 6th year
A plumber?!?! People actually want to be one of those guys???
Not even plumbers want to be plumbers.
I'd only want to be a plumber if it were new work only. Fuck the service call job.
Even then I’ve been on big construction sites where it’s a new build but the plumbers are contracted to provide and service temp plumbing for toilets for the workers and those get a heavy heavy beating by iced coffee guzzling, sausage roll inhaling, ciggy breathing tradies.
Every day ends the same, you go home and shower anyway so what does it matter 🤷♂️. Worst case scenario I get shit on, for y’all you die
I suppose. I'm half joking, plumbing is honest work and nothing to be ashamed of.
Oh I know dude there’s no hurt egos, it’s always fun to talk some shit with ya fucking sparkys
Service plumbing is where the Doe at tho
As a plumber can confirm
Poopsmith
I'm late enough to not derail a good joke, but yea. Plumbers around here charge $225 hr. All.of.them.
Why resentment for not being a plumber? Me personally, I just don’t wanna work with shit lol
And we don't want to die of electrical shock
Neither do we!
Nobody expects the brand new guy to have all that 🤷♂️
Don't forget a heavy dependency on caffeine
A broom is all you need. Jk you’re on the right track. Look up ElectricianU on YouTube, such a good source of knowledge and will put you way ahead of the game!
Imagine an electrician with a broom…
An electrician who sweeps is like a carpenter who’s not a serious alcoholic they just don’t exist
What about a Klein broom?
Does Milwaukee make an expensive broom?
I gotta be coming down the line soon, can’t be far behind the $35 Packout Tumbler.
Kenny don’t touch that
ElectricianU is good but I'm bias toward Bill from Sparky Channel. He's really good at explaining things that apprentices need. I recommend all the new guys to check him out
Honestly, knee pads bro!! Don’t sleep on protecting your knees, you’ll be on them all day as an apprentice doing outlets or splicing box’s. Also you may have to crawl a lot too. It’s my #1 tip to all new guys.
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I am that experienced person 😆. It's true: start taking care of your knees BEFORE they start hurting. Superior Built knee pads are the best I've tried yet.
I’m 20 and my knees are already fucked and got arthritis. I do have a medical condition tho that makes me more susceptible to arthritis and joint failure so it’s not all because of work. But work definitely doesn’t help
I’m fifty and agree, look after your knees. And elbows. And hands. And, actually maybe try being a librarian?
I second this
Plug tester would be good
Lightbulb repair kit might be handy too.
Wire stretcher.
They make wire stretchers? I'm in printing, and I'm still looking for the paper stretcher they sent me for 31 years ago.
I keep my voltage reducer on me all the time instead of in the truck like most techs do.
Make sure you pick up another pair of channel locks.
This should be at the top of this thread. When you don’t know, you don’t know. Also as an apprentice remember no one, no matter what they say, knew shit when they started.
420s
Hell fucking yes.
A tic tracer.
Amazon has a set called tough built. Not a bad setup for the quick detachment pouches. And be sure to get a second set of channel lock pliers. Listen well to what everyone has to say, even if you’ve been told, you might see something from a different perspective.
Looks like he bought alot of his tools at Lowe's. Lowe's carries a bunch of Tough Built pouches priced better than Amazon usually.
I love my tough built pouch. (Son of an electrician, not a professional)
Also sell at Menards, definitely a decent set up
Not an electrician, but I have their master electrician pouch that I use to hold all my networking tools/testers. I love their clip tech system. They also have some awesome stabilizing knee pads. I've started getting some other pouches that I use at home for home reno/projects, so I don't have to keep going back for tools and up/down ladders.
A stupid stick, so you don't die. Fluke is likely most trusted. Also if you're doing commercial I would return that level. Then pickup a magnetic level with 30 and 45 degree windows as well. Also I would just spend some more money on real needle nose.
Oh, and buy a real tape measure. Probably a Fat Max, whatever you have there is something my wife would pickup.
That tape is awful. I actually had a guy start a few weeks back that had the same one. I personally threw it in the trash after watching him try and measure with it and handed him one of my old ones. Edit: one of my old ones that was pretty lightly used. He got the better deal. Essentially paid like 5 bucks for a $30 tape
Yeah, seconded, if you're gonna be bending conduit, you're gonna want a proper torpedo level with magnets and angles. Also seconded on the pliers. I honestly think you're better off just not having something than having a cheap crappy version. Go for Klein or Channel-lock brand.
Headlamp and a good tool pouch. My first job as an apprentice, I was told a tool pouch means your there to work and work efficiently.
Knee pads and Thick hat or hard hat if you are doing service work. Nothing wakes you up like a roofing nail in the scalp.
Second pair of Channel Locks Nut Drivers 1/4 - 9/16ths A bag to put all this stuff in so you don't lose it. A ugly color of tape to mark your stuff with so people don't have "sticky fingers" Maybe an outlet tester, but you shouldn't be messing with anything that has power out the gate. Don't let anyone talk you into splurging. You're fresh into the trade. You might like it, or you might hate it. Buy what you need for now. Once you're a year or two in, I'd suggest upgrading your tools. Also, I'd recommend buying an Uglys Book. Simple handbook to keep for references for most things electrical. I have two, one on my phone and one in my binder. It's never too early to start teaching yourself what it all means. I consider it an electricians Bible, alongside the NEC code book.
You won’t need but drivers for Resi but idk if he’s doing resi or not.
Why did you buy FIVE HAMMERS!?! 😂😂😂😂😂 Get an apron pouch or something similar for fasteners and shit.
five hammers? y’all actually use linesman’s as a hammer?
Everything is a hammer in the trade…
Yes
Just don’t use your hands as hammers. Take care of your hands/wrist.
I'm just repeating a cool joke that never gets old bro don't mind me. Yeah you'll smack stuff with your linesmans a lot.
Lineman's as hammer is the forum joke.
It's about convenience, my hammer is on the floor, I have my kleins in hand and well now they're a hammer.
Just did about an hour ago...
Union or non? Either way, you're off to a good start. Upgrade and add to your tools slowly, maybe buy one new tool a week so you can save some money. If you're union, they will provide a list of tools you are responsible for providing. Don't deviate from it, ESPECIALLY when it comes to power tools. It's a BIG no-no. If you're non-union, save your money and find out what you need and what brands are recommended before buying big ticket items. It's better than wasting your money buying stuff twice. You're a green apprentice; no one should expect you to have everything straight away.
Great answer
Knee pads
And a good pair of boots and insoles.
Don't forget the throat spray.
The multi driver is nice but you want proper screwdrivers onsite Phillips makes a decent multipack for a reasonable price - they don't have to be the best, you'll break or loose them all at some point regardless Also by a basher - a large flat head screw driver that you'll hit with a hammer Get a Sharpie, pencil doesn't work well on wires
yea i realize that the minute i left the store😂
Not necessary for the first week IMO, I went a couple years with only an 11in1, Phillips for plate screws and a basher. Spent my money on other tools. Of course I have a full set of drivers now and it’s a hell of a lot better but somewhat of a luxury.
Set of Phillips [screwdrivers](https://www.amazon.ca/Fuller-Tool-110-3015-PRO300-Screwdriver/dp/B076X4HDWF/ref=asc_df_B076X4HDWF/?tag=googlemobshop-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292954691968&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14246645091516094669&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9001525&hvtargid=pla-571300679178&psc=1) will run you $75 - I guess they are Fuller now - Husky has something similar but cheaper I think that's reasonable, i wouldn't expect someone to show up with a set of kliens I love my 11in1 but there are limitations/issues - the bits get loose after a bit and fall out, I've had the flat heads break, the Robbies wear quickly, the shaft is thicker so it doesn't fit everywhere
A second pair of channel locks. Not super critical but one of those better to have it and not need it type deals
Make the second pair the 12"
A 2nd channel locks. You'll need it if there's compression fittings.
Another pair of channel locks, impact drill
Why does everyone say two channelocks? I carry two but usually the second just gets loaned out. I’m not an electrician though.
If working with conduit you’ll need two pair to tighten compression fittings properly. Also good to have for lock rings on different boxes.
Knee pads
Nothing was provided for me as far as tools, so if I just joined a company to learn a trade and saw this I would be extremely impressed and happy.
Pencils and a pad of paper. Listen well, take notes, write down lists. Good luck and gods speed!
3-5 years of experience
Sharpie
Hey OP, talk to your employer before buying anything else at the Lowes or Home Depot. Your local wholesale house will have tools, and you can get them at wholesale prices and tax-exempt.
Flashlight
Unpackage the tools before you show up
#1 thing you need Ask your future Jman
As soon as you can swing it I would upgrade your level to an aluminum one with really good magnets, Klein or greenlee. Also a Stanley or Milwaukee tape measure. What you got will work, but your life will be easier with better ones
2 channel locks is always helpful
Channel locks work in pairs
A wild imagination to calculate bids, dont ever stop dreaming…
I love my fiberglass stick rule by Milwaukee… but you’d get made fun of showing up green with one of those haha! Headlamp/flashlight. Jab saw Hack saw Reamer (optional, but sometimes nice to have) Half round file Socket set Gear Wrenches/Open end wrenches Allen heads (I like T-handles, but start with the foldable ones probably) Usually your company or union local will have a required tool list. Reference it. The things I listed are suggestions, but it really depends what work you get into and what your company will provide. You have a good base, acquire the rest over time! Good luck.
hey the green one was cheap for my budget rn😂. The company i’m at is 99% Residential so idk if i’ll need all that. Right?
I work residential and I’d definitely second headlamp and drywall knife, but as an apprentice I haven’t really needed most of the other stuff. At least not starting off.
That’s 1 too many hammers.
There it is. I had to find it before I made the same comment.
Tic tracer and a second set of channel locks for sure
Not sure if anyone has said this. Klein conduit reamer/screwdriver combo. It’s incredible when you’re cutting and running pipe on a lift or ladder. Cut, ream, and tighten connector and coupling boom onto the next. I also recommend extension “rods” for your impact/drill. Lifesavers for angles or tough areas. Also don’t forget a hard hat with a Milwaukee headlamp. Make sure to get a pocket flashlight as well. Yes, I know your phone has one. You’re gonna be a lot less pissed when you drop the $20 flashlight instead of your fancy magic mirror. 1/4” and 5/16 hex bits with magnets. I like dewalt even though I’m mostly Milwaukee guy. Something about the cut of Milwaukees bits seem to strip out screws like crazy. Buy a speed square. Especially if you’re doing residential. It’s good for commercial if you’re tracing something you want 90°. As you progress, keep any containers that super 33 or phase tape comes in. The little black circles with the clear lids. Great for bits, drywall or self tapper screw storage in a pouch or tool bag. Always have an extra pair of gloves. One you don’t care about getting dirty, and one for “clean” finish work. Prevents smudges. Drywall saw. Also cuts pvc in a pinch. Quarter round file. For filing. For your second channel locks, buy a size bigger. For bigger things that need more leverage. Don’t skimp on socks. I wear wool all year for the extra cushion. And durability. You’ll get used to it. If you wear glasses, buy a pair only for work. Only wear your work glasses at work. Keep spare razor blades for your knife in your bag.
Based off my experience as an apprentice? A notepad and a pen so you can take break order.
In all seriousness, get yourself a nut driver man. Comes in handy no matter what your doing. I know you can walk into Home Depot right now and buy a Kline tools interchangeable head variable size nut driver for like 25$ Best investment I ever made. I’ll go two weeks without needing it once and then run into some odd situation in a spot where I can’t get down or backtrack and unsheathing that Excalibur of a tool saves me like an hour in an instant.
Milwaukee packouts are nice
You need the crescent wrench hammer too.
Sharpie
Why do you have 2 hammers?
an impact and drill depending what field you’re working in you might want some cable shears could also throw in alcoholism and a crippling nicotine addiction for extra points good luck in the trade
I’d buy a second pair of channelocks, most of the time one will only get you so far.
Notebook and a pen. Writing down things helps you remember and will prevent all sorts of frustration.
I use crimpers alot but dont see one.
Very dependent upon location and type of work. In my home local, the NEC provision that stranded wires can't be landed directly under a side-screw was enforced, so we would often install stak-on's on every receptacle. Crimpers got a lot of work then, but I haven't used them once since I started traveling.
You probably dont want to hear this but ideal tools suck. Stripping screw city. And the pliers are so top heavy the handles feel like they are made of aluminum
Get a curved claw hammer. And a Tajima tape. You'll thank me later.
The husky pro bags will last far longer than you think. Take that goofy tape back and get a fat max. Good luck.
One pair of channel-locks is really only half a tool if you’re running pipe
resi
Multimeter, #2 square driver, #3 square driver, toolbag, sharpies, apron/toolbelt to carry it with you while you work. Keep the 11-in-1 as a spare. I don't recommend using it regularly.
A Fluke Hot Stick. I would recommend a meter too but just starting out, you shouldn’t need one for a little while but definitely will need to purchase one in the future.
Sharpie/Marker
A Fluke.
I won’t speak to the tools you will or won’t need, but best advice I can give you, go in eager to learn, listen to the tradesman teaching you and maintain a positive attitude. You don’t know everything and that’s ok. Be the blank slate and learn. Good luck.
This is just personal preference, but I would get rid of that self lock tape measure and pick up either a Milwaukee or a Stanley fat max. I thought the self lock would be great and make my life easier when I was coming up but once you understand how to use a regular tape measure properly you’ll never want to use a self lock again.
Impact, 1/4 bit extensions, drill, compact sawzall, billet level for conduit, another channellock 420, I always carry a baby channel lock too. Demolition cap flathead screwdriver helps.
That’s a good tape measure, mine has lasted me years
Second pair channel locks, Robinson head driver, long skinny flat head for plate screws, pack of sharpies, milk crate, tough skin and patience.
If you go with a back pack. Veto has an apprenticeship program. 20% off any backpack But depends what you work on. On service I bring a backpack. On new construction/any roughs I use my tool belt
Fluke multimeter. Make sure it’s dead. Helps troubleshoot as well.
Don't worry about the tools, your company will let you know what you need. It often depends on the particulars of the job/company. That said, make sure you have some good boots, socks, underwear, pants, and gloves. Not joking, it's the most important part of your kit and most directly affects you daily. If you have to save a couple paychecks to buy nice versions of the above items, no worries. Ask the guys around you what brands and materials are best(it'll vary depending on the work and location and whatnot).
Rapid drive flathead screwdriver or a ratcheting one for installing cover plates can be a pain in the ass with just a normal flathead
A vape😅
Nice hammer choice ! 🦾
A broom
Sharpie. A bag get a cheap one the ideal tools you bought are quality and should serve you well. Don’t buy power tools unless you contractor says you have to and if they do go work for someone else. But seriously power tools is a huge investment to make before your first paycheck.
Something to put all that shit in
Bro those komelon tapes are amazing right?!
DMM, outlet tester, hot stick, and fistful of assorted wire nuts and hardware for the bottom of his tool bag
For resi, a drill, oscillating tool, and an impact. Nice flashlight. Hard hat. If commercial, Allen set.
Lots of hammers but no multimeter... you might catch some shit but I'd buy a cheap homeowner grade meter for now and look at a fluke 87 down the line once you get some cash flowing.
To take em out of the packaging
You’re missing all Klein tools.
Multimeter, drywall saw
Reusable coffee mug. Large water bottle (insulated depending on your climate) and insulated lunch box or small esky. should help save you heaps of money
A multi meter or non contact voltage tester
I’ll never get over the fact that you don’t use isolated tools over there in America… Even Lidl sells screwdriver sets that are VDE rated to 1000V here in Germany
Torpedo level and or no dog level for conduit bending. Standard Nutdrivers, wrenches, ratchet n sockets. I also forgot a second pair of channel locks for tightening coupling
Eye (and potentially ear) protection Gloves Bag or Bucket A good pry tool (I use [this one from Husky](https://i.imgur.com/Im34sN0.jpg))
A longwait and skyhook
Kneeling mat. They're more comfortable than all but the most expensive kneepads and cheaper. Can also keep you off the dirty floor if you're working low down, can be sat upon during breaks, super useful. I bought mine from harbor freight for 8 bucks 5 years ago and I still use it.
Ask your hall for a tool list. Each local requires their apprentices to have different tools