This is an update to a thread I made a couple of years back. I have consolidated all the additions to keep it tidy.
A question that keeps popping up! Obviously the type of work and location are both factors in the tools you will need so please only use this as a guide rather than a definitive list of what you will need. The type of work that this is aimed at is more domestic/commercial.
There are many brands to chose from and everyone has different preferences, what works for someone else might not necessarily work for you. It's a safer bet buying from known good brands like Knipex, C.K. & Bahco but that doesn't mean you have to go all out. Only buy what you can afford (maybe buying one item a week until you have built up your kit). A general rule someone gave to me when I asked this question a few years back was if you have to borrow it twice you should probably have your own. This obviously applies to hand tools and maybe a combi drill.
It's best to shop around to get the best prices for stuff as it can vary largely. Online I use Amazon quite alot. Be careful of fake stuff on eBay, only buy from trusted sellers, with good feedback, I'm sure you know the score! For local stuff you would be better asking your mentor as they will be more aware of the decent places in and around your area.
1. Screwdrivers!
Probably one of the most obvious. Although you're unlikely to be working live (at least initially) VDE Insulated Screwdrivers are really a must.
2. Snips/Sidecutters
Depending on your mentor (and yourself) you may being a snips or pliers type so these may not be necessary.
3. Pliers
You'll definitely need a pair!
4. Longnose Pliers
Extremely handy for where your fingers just can't get into!
5. Hammer
Can't really go wrong with this one, I favour a Stanley Anti-vibe
6. Wood Chisels
A couple of mid size for general wood butchering, again can't really go wrong with this one.
7. Bolster/Cold Chisels
A couple of different sized ones to suit your job.
8. Spirit Level
Worth getting a decent one and looking after it, look out for Stabila.
9. Stanley Knife/Electricians Knife
This is down to preference. I only use a Stanley knife.
10. Hacksaw
For conduit/trunking, SWA glands and more, they all do more or less the same thing so no need to buy a fancy one. It's the blades that make the difference (I recommend Irwin but this should be something that your boss provides you with).
11. Junior Hacksaw
As above.
12. Voltage Tester & Proving Unit/Multimeter
Probably the most important. Definitely worth spending the money on. Worth checking out the forum sponsor to see what kind of deals they have on - Test Meter
13. Waterpump Pliers/Grips
For SWA glands and other jiggery-pokery.
14. Adjustable Spanners
For SWA glands and general use.
15. Measuring Tape
I recommend a good sturdy 8m one.
16. Tool bag/box
You'll obviously need something to throw it all into at the end of the day! Bag/box is majorly down to personal preference. And size majorly depends on the amount of tools you plan on towing about! A traditional toolbox can be handy as it can also double up as a saw bench, seat at tea time, etc. but can be heavy. Tote bags are handy and can be bought in a variety of sizes, can become a bit like a bucket though (all sorts being thrown in). You can also get backpacks which would obviously benefit people commute to work or having to walk large distances around sites. Same rules apply, buy the best you can afford.
Optional/Other:
Lockoff kit
Plug in Socket Tester
Pad/Jab Saw - Can be picked up for a few quid just about any tool shop.
Drill bit set (torx, etc.) - Can be a handy thing to have at the bottom of your tool box.
Combi drill - Not something you'll probably need straight away - A whole range to choose from - Makita, Dewalt, Bosch Blue, Hilti, Milwaukee, etc. See what your mentor uses.
Wire Strippers/Flex Strippers
SWA Strippers - Jokari, C.K. & Facom all make brilliant tools to make glanding off SWA easier.
Punch Tool - For BT/Data Points
Dust mask, gloves & Goggles - Something you should be provided with, but it pays to be prepared!
File - For burrs, etc. on metal conduit & trunking.
Cable Shears/Croppers - You're unlikely to be cutting bigger stuff for a while (like meter tails) but something to look out for.
Square
Spanners
Allen Keys
Crimpers - There is a variety of different styles, sizes, etc. speak to you mentor.
Notepad & pen
Small first aid kit
A question that keeps popping up! Obviously the type of work and location are both factors in the tools you will need so please only use this as a guide rather than a definitive list of what you will need. The type of work that this is aimed at is more domestic/commercial.
There are many brands to chose from and everyone has different preferences, what works for someone else might not necessarily work for you. It's a safer bet buying from known good brands like Knipex, C.K. & Bahco but that doesn't mean you have to go all out. Only buy what you can afford (maybe buying one item a week until you have built up your kit). A general rule someone gave to me when I asked this question a few years back was if you have to borrow it twice you should probably have your own. This obviously applies to hand tools and maybe a combi drill.
It's best to shop around to get the best prices for stuff as it can vary largely. Online I use Amazon quite alot. Be careful of fake stuff on eBay, only buy from trusted sellers, with good feedback, I'm sure you know the score! For local stuff you would be better asking your mentor as they will be more aware of the decent places in and around your area.
1. Screwdrivers!
Probably one of the most obvious. Although you're unlikely to be working live (at least initially) VDE Insulated Screwdrivers are really a must.
2. Snips/Sidecutters
Depending on your mentor (and yourself) you may being a snips or pliers type so these may not be necessary.
3. Pliers
You'll definitely need a pair!
4. Longnose Pliers
Extremely handy for where your fingers just can't get into!
5. Hammer
Can't really go wrong with this one, I favour a Stanley Anti-vibe
6. Wood Chisels
A couple of mid size for general wood butchering, again can't really go wrong with this one.
7. Bolster/Cold Chisels
A couple of different sized ones to suit your job.
8. Spirit Level
Worth getting a decent one and looking after it, look out for Stabila.
9. Stanley Knife/Electricians Knife
This is down to preference. I only use a Stanley knife.
10. Hacksaw
For conduit/trunking, SWA glands and more, they all do more or less the same thing so no need to buy a fancy one. It's the blades that make the difference (I recommend Irwin but this should be something that your boss provides you with).
11. Junior Hacksaw
As above.
12. Voltage Tester & Proving Unit/Multimeter
Probably the most important. Definitely worth spending the money on. Worth checking out the forum sponsor to see what kind of deals they have on - Test Meter
13. Waterpump Pliers/Grips
For SWA glands and other jiggery-pokery.
14. Adjustable Spanners
For SWA glands and general use.
15. Measuring Tape
I recommend a good sturdy 8m one.
16. Tool bag/box
You'll obviously need something to throw it all into at the end of the day! Bag/box is majorly down to personal preference. And size majorly depends on the amount of tools you plan on towing about! A traditional toolbox can be handy as it can also double up as a saw bench, seat at tea time, etc. but can be heavy. Tote bags are handy and can be bought in a variety of sizes, can become a bit like a bucket though (all sorts being thrown in). You can also get backpacks which would obviously benefit people commute to work or having to walk large distances around sites. Same rules apply, buy the best you can afford.
Optional/Other:
Lockoff kit
Plug in Socket Tester
Pad/Jab Saw - Can be picked up for a few quid just about any tool shop.
Drill bit set (torx, etc.) - Can be a handy thing to have at the bottom of your tool box.
Combi drill - Not something you'll probably need straight away - A whole range to choose from - Makita, Dewalt, Bosch Blue, Hilti, Milwaukee, etc. See what your mentor uses.
Wire Strippers/Flex Strippers
SWA Strippers - Jokari, C.K. & Facom all make brilliant tools to make glanding off SWA easier.
Punch Tool - For BT/Data Points
Dust mask, gloves & Goggles - Something you should be provided with, but it pays to be prepared!
File - For burrs, etc. on metal conduit & trunking.
Cable Shears/Croppers - You're unlikely to be cutting bigger stuff for a while (like meter tails) but something to look out for.
Square
Spanners
Allen Keys
Crimpers - There is a variety of different styles, sizes, etc. speak to you mentor.
Notepad & pen
Small first aid kit
