Episode 2 - Tools Every Apprentice Electrician Needs To Start Their Job
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- Опубліковано 6 чер 2024
- TOOLS USED IN THIS EPISODE LINKED BELOW!!
If you're about to start your career as an electrician but don't have a clue what tools you need, feel free to consult this list. In this video I talk about all of the tools that I deem necessary to start your career with. There will be endless tools that you will buy through the years but these are the basics that every apprentice electrician needs.
In order as they appear, I also time-stamped each tool so you can find them easier. If you'd like to buy them I've put links to each tool on Amazon below so you can order them if you'd prefer:
First up is to get a good pouch. You'll need a two-sided pouch with a hammer loop and a tape chain. One side of the bag should have storage for your hand tools, the other side should have multiple pouches for storing staples, screws, wirenuts, pens/pencils, markers, and a tape measure. You'll want a separate hammer loop (one thing I forgot to mention in the video...a hammer!) that hangs behind you from the belt. Its a lot easier to have a hammer hanging from behind you than off to the sides smacking into your legs all day. (0:56)
Klein 10" flat-head screw driver with a 3/8" tip. (1:12) - amzn.to/2TASZqe
Klein long-shaft 6-in-1 multitool (1:31) - amzn.to/2KrhPok
Stanley Sheetrock Saw (2:33) - amzn.to/2DPQBrf
Klein Lineman's Pliers (2:58) - amzn.to/2S78Nj0
Klein Side-cutting Pliers (3:30) - amzn.to/2KoODyl
Klein Small Wire-Strippers (4:12) - amzn.to/2DCpPSf
Klein Large Wire-Stripper/Crimper/Bolt-Cutter Combo Tool (4:38) - amzn.to/2BochIn
Klein Needle-Nose/Stripper Combo Tool (5:38) - amzn.to/2DQPEyU
Fluke T5-600 Multi-meter (6:23) - amzn.to/2DQPKXi
Klein #2 Square (Robertson) Driver (7:39) - amzn.to/2DSZ78Z
Klein ¼” - 9/16” Nut Drivers (more specifically 3/8”, 11/32”, 7/16”, and ½”) [your 6-in-1 will come with a ¼” and 5/16” so you don’t need to get these] (8:26) - amzn.to/2DRnofl
Klein Mini terminating screwdrivers (Philips and Flathead) (9:42) - amzn.to/2S3Mb31
Husky Utility Knife (10:01) - amzn.to/2QZBiiw
25’ Stanley FAT MAX tape measure (10:52) - amzn.to/2S72D2C
A pack of Sharpie Markers (12:13) - amzn.to/2S7GlgT
Non-Contact Voltage Tester (12:55) - amzn.to/2S8MZUo
¼” Masonry Bits (14:16) - amzn.to/2qXE6kV
Bosch ¼” to 1 ¼” Paddle/Spade Bits (14:11) - amzn.to/2qZzevO
¼” and 5/16” Drill Drivers (14:56) - amzn.to/2S74kgu
Drill extensions with Philips, flat, square, and torx tips (buy a whole kit of various tips separately) (15:10) - amzn.to/2Ktnb2I
GFI plug tester (15:40) - amzn.to/2DRoR5B
Headlamp (15:55) - amzn.to/2FyaFA7
1 1/8” Stepped Uni-Bit (16:34) - amzn.to/2S4DCVB
Klein Stubby 6-in-1 Multi-tool (17:24) -
amzn.to/2KpQino
18v Lithium-Ion Hammer Drill (you’ll need at least 2 good batteries and a charger) (18:26) - amzn.to/2KnFuWM
Small Lightweight Drill (Screw-Gun) (19:58) - amzn.to/2DRnuUn
Various Drill Bits (metal bits, wood bits, stone bits, spare drill extensions, drill bit index etc…) (20:47) - amzn.to/2Fyjb1W
Set of fitted gloves (not leather gardening gloves - fitted mechanic’s gloves) (21:32) - amzn.to/2S3GhyX
Several GOOD flashlights (check into Nebo) (23:02) - amzn.to/2S1mVKG
Multi-Allen Wrench Tool (23:55) - amzn.to/2DBoBXn
2 Sets of Medium-Sized Channel Locks (25:12) - amzn.to/2R13521
NOT TALKED ABOUT IN THIS VIDEO - 22oz Ewing Claw Hammer - amzn.to/2FC8fAk
That’s pretty much it for the needs of a fresh apprentice. If you have any questions please reach out to me at dustin@electricianu.com
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#electricianclasses #electricaltraining #electriciantraining #apprenticeelectriciantools - Навчання та стиль
I made a significant error in this video. I said Greenlee was not a very good brand of tools but I meant to say Commercial Electric. (Both Green) - Greenlee makes outstanding tools, Commercial Electric's tools are shit. Sorry for the mistake, now I'll go kill myself lol
Electrician U all good I think most understood where you were going
Dude wasnt your plug tester Commercial Electric ??
Thanks so much for the Greenlee clarification. I don’t use them normally but I have a backup set that’s Greenlee and have been very impressed.
@@topflight408 there plug testers are about the only decent thing they make lol
I use commercial electric on residential and Klein on bonded worthy sites.
I love when electricians makeup a reason to makea video about their basic carry. Can't we just be honest and say, "I LOVE MY JOB AND WANT TO SHOW YOU MY TOYS.. I MEAN TOOLS." I love talking to new guys in the trade about my knipex and Klien tools.
You got me lol
@@ElectricianU Don't be sad. I reguarly send pictures of new tools to other gearhead friends lol. It's all just legos for adults. Let's be honest haha.
@@esl4058 yea
@@esl4058 oh no is this my fate😭🤣 hey bro look at this new screwdriver I got💀
Completely. as an industrial mechanic/engineer I carry all these tools plus...more toys. I love comparing tools with other tradespeople to find new toys.
I would also add these things to the list:
- Torpedo Level
- Tin Snips
- Conduit Reamer
Torpedo level was one of the tools he showed homie.
Tools for "apprentices" electricians
@@christophernersesian2238 idk about the tin snips but I don't see why not have a conduit reamer
@@Cherbiusmy snips get a work out but we set a lot of slider brackets helps keep your side cutters a little fresher but also we have the luxury of working near our big husky bags/boxes so space isn’t all that limited for extra crap.
The most important tools aren't things you'll buy in a store:
1) Punctuality - show up before your start time, and have breaks only at the allotted times, not dragging them out
2) Awareness - be aware of the big picture of things. If something doesn't look right, tell somebody. It might not be, or maybe its something to be taught to you. It shows you are actually thinking and not going through the motions
3) Be inquisitive - ask questions. Make sure you are thinking and understand the job you are doing
4) Take initiative - don't wait to be told what to do, just do it. Always be busy, even if thats cleaning up. And if there is nothing to do for a bit, look busy and the best way of doing that is looking at the plans.
5) Be eager to try new things - even if its typically an unpleasant job. By showing you are willing to do the tough stuff, you'll be trusted with the better stuff.
I know this is strictly about physical tools, but an apprentice can turn up with just their basic toolbelt with a few essential hand tools. If they show the above qualities, it won't matter because their tradesman will have the tools they need for them to use. All the good ones at least, the ones who treat apprentices as students and not cheap labour, want a mind to be moulded, not a loaded person with all the fancy gadgetry who doesn't care.
Excellent points!!
I need one of those, all the kids now a days are spending their time taking selfie’s for Instagram.
Excellent point for sure, but the guys that don't care don't generally show up with fancy gadgetry, they don't care. They show up with the bare minimum (or less) in all aspects. I see a guy that shows up with a 10 dollar pair of broken kleins, a rusty screwdriver, and a razor knife for ... like 6 months straight and either that guy is struggling to support his family and he's doing the best he can with what he's got - or more likely, he's just there to make beer money.
I think an additional point would be to confidently say no. Been asked to do a lot of risky things, and no one pays anyone enough to not go home to the family.
@@martinsnibbor7691 take me under your wing!
Nice video and I can relate. My Dad was a union electrician and I wanted to become one so I applied when I was 18 (1971) and took the test. I then had an opportunity to go to work as a non-union sheet metal worker shortly after High School and about 3 years later the contractor I was working for went union. About four years after I applied for electrician apprentice I got my letter from the IBEW Union Hall that I was accepted but I was already a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. I don't regret it because I learned how to install and service residential heating and cooling which saved me a ton of money. After 5 years of residential work, I changed to commercial and industrial.
If you're a first year guy two things,.... 1) show up on time and 2) don't leave tools on the job because you'll be going back on your own time.
and they most likely wont be there anymore XD
i am with you! :'(
This. So much this. 4 hour round trip tomorrow to get a 20V drill out of a store's electrical room. Dang it! 😂
Make sure you track your gear throughout the day otherwise that shit grows legs
Had a guy over me that always kept a dowel-handled wooden spoon in his belt. I never even questioned it, until I had to dig an ant hill out of a live meter pedestal years later. Idk if this is the sort of shit he used his for, or just a nonconductive probe, but ever since, I've kept one in my bag, for just in case.
I keep one of those too. It's real purpose is to smack an apprentices hand when they're reaching for your tools! I don't really carry one, but that would be a great use for it.
as an electrician for 27 years I agree 90% with you. Most of what you said is dead on perfect. In fact I carry many of the same exact tools that you do (exect I don't buy the ones with the comfort grip handles, I prefer the regular handles). . . . Things I tell an apprentice to have that you didn't mention would be a pipe cutter, wire snips(a.k.a electrician's scissors), crimpers, 3/8-9/16 ratcheting wrench, tin snips, a crescent wrench and a second measuring tape (because that is going to be you most often lost tool, keep a back up) .... I would also recommend a that a newbie to get a good hacksaw and Ratchet and socket set for switchgear, running cable tray and mounting equipment (nothing super fancy, just a good 3/8 set that covers the basics, I tell newbies not to buy mega expensive ratchet/Socket sets from Mac Tools or Snap On because we're not diesel mechanics, so Husky, Gearwrench and Craftsman sets work just fine in our line of work), but that is stuff that you will not need to carry around all the time......I also tell my helpers to get a 5 gallon bucket to carry their tools in (including their pouch). I always have a loaded pouch with me, but a rarely (almost never) wear it. Instead I prefer to wear a small mini pouch on my tool belt with just whatever tools I need for the job I am doing that for that day. I am not going to wear a loaded pouch full of stuff that I will not be using, hence the reason I carry my loaded pouch around with me in a 5 gallon bucket... Since I don't wear a loaded pouch all the time, I don't require my helpers too either. I get my helpers keep their pouch in a 5 gallon bucket (just like I do), that-away if you need more tools beside what's in your mini pouch, then you don't have to run all the back to the work van to get it. ....I would also recommend a carpenters nail pouch. When you are running conduit, you can keep one hole straps and screws in it, it makes it very easy and convenient (especially when your working up on ladders).
Before someone rips over my comment about Expensive Mac Tools and Snap On ratchets and sockets...Let me point out again that Electricians aren't diesel mechanics. Although we do use ratchets and sockets, however it is not something we use everyday, sometimes we can go a month or even two months without using them at all. (((( So YES, I am very well aware that Snap On and Mac Tools ratchets and sockets are the very best that money can buy. ....In fact, a long time ago, I spent a lot of money on a Snap On tool truck buying stuff. Simply because I had the idea in my head that Snap On makes the best Ratchets and Sockets and I believed that I had to have the best. Only to realize that as an electrician I didn't use that stuff often enough to justify spending that much money on it when cheaper alternatives from Craftsman or GearWrench were available ...so when I tell newbies that they don't need Mac Tools or Snap On ratchets/socket sets... I still believe Snap On makes the very best Ratchets and Sockets, but since we aren't using them all day everyday, we (electricians) do not need the very best ratchets and sockets. Craftsman works just fine in the electrician world...... Yes I am actually speaking from experience.
Snips? What are you a commie or something?
word of advice: Avoid using a sharpie on things that will be exposed. it will usually show through any paint applied later
I carry a 9mm mechanical pencil with HB leads. Can't erase markers. I've seen marker bleed through a layer of Killz.
Sharpies are great for cutting and threading pipe to measure.
So many people kill me with sharpie marks on pipe.
Jacob Campbell lmao dude seriously!
Not his prob
Hey man I am currently in school to become an electrician and I just want to give you a thanks. You've been a great supplemental resource and touch on a lot of things we don't get to in class. So, again man thanks.
On the subject of the carry belt, something I loved from the moment I started using it was a set of suspenders. Takes all the weight off your hips and back, reduces pain and fatigue, and keeps your belt from sliding down so it's always at the height you want without having to fasten your belt very tight at all. You can even adjust one side higher or lower than the other to compensate for the weight of pouches (I keep my right suspender slightly shorter since that's the side with most of my tool weight). Just make sure you get the good, wide work style with the thick metal clamps and teeth.
I did that for a long time too, great advice
I really like your videos! I spent almost all night last night trying to figure out where I wanted this new year to go. I’ve always been interested in becoming an electrician because I want to someday build my own house and your videos have definitely helped me to decide on making it official and start the process on becoming an apprentice. I have a bunch of tools already but your video has helped me realize that I now have a reason to go buy some more.😁
I'm a 19 year old, 2nd generation, 2nd year apprentice, and this video is spot on. I started out in commercial and then went to a high rise where I did decks, boxing, roughing the units, running a rough crew, and then down to parking garages and I have just about every tool I'll ever need but I still buy more just for the hell of it. Can never be too prepared
Dude you even put the list in here. Thanks for this video, really helpful.
A million of thanks !!!! Thank you for taking the time doing the video
This is a great video.
Thanks for this!
I just applied for my apprentice license.
Trying to get tools together, so this is incredibly helpful.
Thanks for showing how to understand electrical and prepare to do things right.
I just subscribed so thank you again.
Very clear that Electrician U loves being an electrician. Inspiring video bro.
Thank you very much. You’ve explained things that I have always wondered but never thought to ask.
I just finished a 6 month class with the state of California for building and Electrical I had a blast can't wait to get into this field.
where and what is the program or school called? I would appericate if you responded back!
Thank you for showing this video. I have an Electrical Helper exam - written - this Saturday.
Thank you so much for these videos, so glad I came across your channel. I'm 25, with little to no direction. I am willingly to work, and really excited I came across this. Being a electrician is something I can see myself doing. I am gonna bust my ass to become the best electrician. I can be. Going to be applying for apprenticeship programs soon. Thank you again.
Good luck! Glad to see you going into a trade. Too much need for tradesmen and too many boys with no direction in this Country. Gotta' put the two together.
Did you end up getting into an apprenticeship program? I'm also 25 thinking about getting into one.
I’m 24 & looking into getting into this trade! I would like to see your progress & any tips you may have!
Love the video, I’m looking to continue my training in electrical work and having a baseline for tools & gear is a plus. Thank you
Awesome video man, im a 5 month apprentice and your channel has help me out in my start up electrician field, keep up the good advices.
How's it goin now man? crazy your comment is 4 years ago.
You are a great guy, God bless and many thanks for the help. If everyone would share like you do, this Earth we live on would be a much better place ;-). Blessingssssssss...
I finally figured out how to wire a 3 way switch from watching your video on 3 ways. It’s kinda simple after u get it in your head. I thought at first u had power coming into both boxes but realized it only comes in on one switch.
Thank you so much man, I just recently got the opportunity to become a apprentice and your videos have been nothing but super helpful and informative.
Great news! Congrats my friend!
I appreciate the guidance on this. I’m starting trade school Monday and I know at some point soon I’m going to need all this if I wanna start working somewhere as an electrician’s trainee soon. This is one of the better guides and rundowns I’ve been able to find, again much appreciated. Subscribed.
great set like $10 at xmass but perfect durable as hell and lifetime warranty used em like crazy abused em never failed yet www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-High-Leverage-Long-Nose-Pliers-Set-3-Piece-1006/205913115?modalType=drawer
I recommend getting tools with distinctly different colored handles that way you find the right one you’re looking for quicker and easier
why not just tape the ends?
A seasoned hand, knows where every tool is located in their bags and every tool has a place that lives in your belt, no need for color coding, grab and go!!
I rather use tape, looking for different colors often times means it's a different tool or different properties. 95 percent of my tools are insulated so they're all orange and what not
That is what electrical tape is for....
I'm not a big fan of tape on my grips, and I generally reach and grab without looking. They're all different colors or very different visually in some way - but I operate my tool bag by braille most of the time. They all feel different, and they're always in the same spot. I don't lay shit down everywhere, it goes from my hand back to its slot. I've gotta put my hand there to grab whatever other tool anyway.
Thanks for the info. I was a apprentice back in 2010 but got out of it and currently trying to get back into it again and go for my journeyman’s and then the masters.
by now you should be in it to win it. I hope have good mentors etc. Always take that knowledge and add it to your own you'll be ahead of the curve.
Hello Mr Electrician U! I had my instructor play your video to show the whole class. Glad you’re here to explain in great details.
All of these videos are very helpful. And the straight forward and positive attitude helps the learning process.
Thanks for taking the time to make this video , You rock !!!
No kidding!!! Not only the video but all the documentation in the "show more." Your detail is second to none, thank you. I'm looking for a crimping tool to connect grounding wires deep in the box. My linesman's pliers have a crimp capacity, however, it's 6 or so inches from the tip. I would like to have something that I can crimp deep in the box. Thanks for all your hard work to make these productions. -jim b
Pulling apart and reassembling the multi tool is super ASMR for some reason
I would say you need,
-a good 10in1 (multibit) screwdriver
-a flathead for beating
-a pair of sidecutters
-Romex strippers
-wire strippers
-electrical tape
-sharpie/pencil
-phasing tape
-keyhole saw
-tic tester
-ohm meter/tester
I recommend Klein tools for the most part, stay away from Southwire or anything cheaply made
Baby channel locks were a gamechanger for my tool bag set up, the little 6" ones
I'm a second year apprentice in the field I've found a slotted screwdriver is incredibly useful
Yeah he mentioned that.
I would like to add a couple of items, tin snips, round and flat files , pipe reemer, hammer, hacks saw, WD40 DONE
no hammer!
I haven't seen anyone use a hacksaw in a good 8 years. It's as obsolete as a hand crank drill. Buy a used Recip saw if money is an issue.
I'm going into this field and I really appreciate the video. Thank you.
One really valuable tool I keep in my carry bag is a set of 3/8 Drive hex keys and torx keys metric and sae up to around 1/2" and a ratchet. Also a small assortment of 3/8" SAE/Metric sockets. Also a set of ratcheting wrenches.
you dont need half of this, if you are in your first year. Keep it light, you gonna be the one carrying ladders and all the equipements around. Don't spend a thousand before starting to work, add stuff gradually.
-Good impact driver + charger + 2 batteries, red square bit
- red square screwdriver
- green square screwdriver
- filledup screwdriver
- flathead screwdriver
- good cutter
- good pliers
- Cheap long nose
- precision screwdriver flat and fillup
- Knife
- sheetrock knife
- small level
-Sharpies and pencils + pencil sharpener
- 3m mask P100 cartridge
I use to carry my hammer drill, but i prefer using the wired SDS from the compagnie, and leave my batterie drill in the car or at home
If you do a lot of emt, charm your journeyman into buying a bandsaw, if he doesnt own one. That made my weeks go so much better :)
It's just my opinion, i started a few months ago, and dont ever missed anything really, your journeyman gonna allready have a lot
100% cant agree with you more on the bandsaw comment. I was 3 months deep starting my apprentice program. My boss used dewalt, i prefered milwaukee. Found out milwaukee makes a badass bandsaw powered by 18 volts battery. I bought one for $260.....wow was my boss impressed from it..way better and quicker for cutting 2" emt or older metal casted MCs conduit than any sawzall or hackzall.......my boss immediately bought one for himself the next day but made by dewalt. Mine was still more powerful.
Nice video, a few things that i'd add to that is a good magnet for finding metal studs for fixing shit to once the dry wall/ceiling goes on, a hack saw, conduit cutters, a cold chisel and a hammer. Also i dunno if you guys use U clips in the US but having a template to draw the cut out for U clips with a level build into it is heaps useful and also some pencils
Excellent video! Thank you for sharing your craft and promoting your trade. We need more folks like you in the trades. Keep up the great work.
Right now, I’m seeking to become an electrician by taking basic electrical classes in my local area, plus I like the aspect of going back to school, and I have grandparents who were apart of IBEW when they were creating fuses. It’s never to late.
When I started my apprenticeship many many years ago and I got out on the work site, the one tool I got told I needed was what was called a Yankee Screw Driver. So I got one, really excellent quality, actually made in Germany with a variety of Slot bits, Robertson and Phillips and it proved to be really handy, all these years gone by I still have it and use it periodically.
Hardrock I've seen those but have never owned one. They look like they're from the 50s lol. I'll check into it, I'm curious now.
@Hardrock:
I still have my Yankee Screwdriver!
@Electrician U:
This is a Yankee Screwdriver, and this is how you use it:
ua-cam.com/video/VRfoIyx8KfU/v-deo.html
We used them a lot before cordless was a thing. I had two sizes.
My journeyman just gave me his old one!
Hey I need some help in the field on how to read a blueprint when you're on a job site can you go into depth when you make a video And do a video on all the different conduit bending .
Thank you.
Absolutely!
nick barrows look for the garage, it easiest thing to spot
Just found your channel and love it so far! Love your tool list too. Can't say how many helpers I have had over the years that kept coming and asking to borrow something cause they didn't have it. Only nit-pick I have on your list was at the end. And that is a pair of baby channel locks. I get smirks from guy when they see them on my pouch. But, they are great for a lot.
great video, helped alot just graduated from eletrican school and ready to get started in the trade. got most of these tools, job interview today. lets go go out be safe and have some fun :)
Wow! Great video! I was taking notes and im not an electrician lol!
If you are a first year but yourself a nice pair of knee pads and a good dustpan
Nathaniel Gardener This is serious advice people.
Yup, pretty much. I'm a fourth year, but I remember those days lol
Knee pads and lipstick baby, that's all you need
Also if you carry a lot of tools, a heavy duty belt. Or the trousers with pockets, at least saves your back.
Knee pads are 100% a must. or one of those knee pads that have wheels on them so you can zip around on the floor.
Nathaniel Gardener I can confirm this is true. I just bought knee pads today. That's funny. I'm doing a lot of wiring haha
Thanks for educating these youngsters
Awesome vid. I’ve done electrical part time for a couple years and wish I would’ve saw this. Thanks
Save yourself a lot of money: make a pilot hole for your step bits.
Hey man love your vids. Im only 16 and i want to learn the trade good video im worling with my dad right now hes an electrician as well. Love the vids
Thanks for taking your time to educate people like myself on this. Great information
You've got a good series going here. I applaud your practical approach and honest assessment of how to begin in the trade. I'll follow you and see where things go. I'm a retired master and had a very rewarding career. I try to steer interested young folks toward the trade. Well done, friend.
If I'm 25 with no experience, is it better to take a college course in basic electricity to then get a entry level job? Or just apply until I find something?
@@Bilbus7
there are plenty of guild organizations (Union and non-union [I recommend non-union]) that are dying for motivated young folks to enter the trade. Most of them will facilitate your training so that you can make a living wage while you progress!
Great video sir. I'm just getting into the trade, the amount of tools needed can be a little overwhelming on times. I'm starting to slowly put together a decent amount of good tools
neighbor just went through diesel mechanics school. those guys have $2k in tools just to start!
Manabozo and a good hammer
I’m currently around five years or so as a residential journeyman in Washington state, and while I do absolutely agree that Klein makes the best tools for electrical, I personally still buy and use commercial electrical tools for certain things, and it’s because I beat the shit out of some of them. I have certain tools that I’ll ONLY buy Klein, but I also have tools that I will also buy a second, cheaper brand of because I go through them fairly frequently. Also, in 2020, Milwaukee has started to make a lot more electrical tools that I personally really like. I make a pretty damn good amount of money so I can easily afford to spend more money on brands like Klein, but new apprentices might not have the same budget to start out with a tool bag full of Klein tools, and they also might decide this trade isn’t for them, so maybe if you’re new to the trade, make sure you’re fully committed to it before you go buying all the top of the line brands.
One more thing- get that tape chain caught on a ladder while climbing up and down a couple times and you’ll rip that thing right off of your bags, hopefully before you get caught and lose your balance and fall off your ladder. I personally HATE those things and just see it as a hazard, but that’s just my opinion. Anyway, thanks for the video though, I really enjoy watching your videos and really like your channel! These kinds of videos were great for me early on in my apprenticeship, and all these years later I still really enjoy just hearing and seeing how others do it and their opinions and experiences in the trade. Thanks for sharing!
3rd Term apprentice with the IBEW here. For union apprentices theres a list of tools which you are required to provide for yourself. Everything else required for the job must be provided by your employer. Current tool list as written by the IBEW includes:
- Linemen's pliers
- Diagonal cutting pliers
- Channelocks
- #6, #8, and #10 Robertson screwdrivers
- 5/16" and 1/4 inch flat head screwdrivers
- #2 phillips screwdriver
- measuring tape
- tool louch and belt
- safety hat
- safety boots
- log book (provided by JAC)
- note pad
- pencils
- electriciams knife
Im not going to get into what I would recommend having, this is just what the union requires you to have as an apprentice.
All your videos are great. Thanks for sharing.
I’d add a mirror and fish tape to the extra tool bag. I was in a situation where my fish tape wasn’t feeding up through a wall like it should have. So I used my mirror to see inside the wall and find I was getting bound up on a box that I didn’t know was there. And I could adjust accordingly.
Also it might be a bit of a hassle at first. But get flash lights and head lamps that use the same battery type. Either AAA or AA. This way you don’t have to carry around multiple types of batteries. You can buy a 20 pack of one and when you see you’re getting low you can buy a new one and know you’re covered and not worry about having to keep track of lots of batteries
I use my phone in selfie mode and use that but a mirror would be quicker
Brian Wilson yeah. But sometimes you need to stick the mirror in a place where you’d be really pissed if you dropped your phone. Both are great to use
Hey Dustin that is a very good method of sharing your knowledge and I think that besides being an electrician you should also be an E instructor thank you very much Mr. Dustin. Two thumbs up for you
Klein has a beauty precision multi driver. Like the 6 in 1.
Calling it a square screwdriver was priceless. Like a homeowner calling it a star screwdiver.
Just landed my first apprenticeship! It took a lot of preparation to get there but I’m ready !
My list of what I carry as a first year:
Klein ratcheting cutters
Husky 12-in-1 screwdriver
Wiss cable cutters
Komelon mag tape, 25'
Milwaukee 7/16 driver
Eklind folding Allen
Homemade hawkbill knife
Kapro magnetic handy level
3m 76 tape
DeWalt chicken stick
Crescent brand crescent wrench
Southwire compact strippers
1 1/2" cold chisel
Uline permanent marker
Craftsman magnetic angled head flashlight w/ clip
wtf is a chicken stick?
I carry
Milwaukee drill and impact
Torpedo level
Tape measure 25ft
Rabbit Ears
7-1 nut driver
11-1 screwdriver
Needle nose
Ratchet with all size sockets
Voltage tester
Flashlight
Pipe wrench
Pipe reamer
Ratchet cutter
Side cutters
Lineman
Terminating screwdriver set
Wire strippers
A good video, it would of been nice if these type videos were around when i started my electrical apprenticeship ----- then again there were no PC or internet then. ha ha 😎
Rons beers lol I was thinking the same. There's not a lot of content around for guys to go to when learning a lot of shit in this trade. I'm hoping to cover some of that gap wih my channels - hopefully more guys will join and make free content for all of us to benefit.
Very helpful! Thanks for the great knowledge! I just started my apprenticeship last week so definitely needed this!
You still in the trades? How far along are you now?
Update please.
The rapi-driv flat head is my go to for covers. Super light to carry. Keep the Philips for the receps and switches and the flat head for covers. Everyone that sees me use it, inevitably goes out and gets one. Home owners, too.
Its really interesting to see how different you work compared to electicians in Germany.
And in uk lol
How so?
How many hours a week do they work?
African 1st Congolese 2nd 40 plus overtime actually
@African 1st Congolese 2nd lol I put in 70 hours a week and I'm a electrician apprentice.
Could you make a video and talk about being a union electrician vs non union electrician and what the pros and cons are of each. What about apprenticing for the union or non union? Please answer man I'm on the verge of making a radical change from going to college to being an apprentice because I don't feel like I truly learn anything when I don't have shit to apply it to in real life. Love your videos man!
JPIZZEL hey I'm a union electrician if you'd like to talk I'd be more than willing. The main difference is money. 37.50 an hour plus benefits. Around 58$ and hour.
Do you want to work or work for a living. If you like doing shit work for no money go be a rat.
and the real union guys come out!
Yeah bud. I work all day. I'm worth my money. That's the difference. Oh and btw next time you're rate job thank us for that.
I'm sure you bust ass ron, i think anyone would for your pay
Last thing I would suggest, have a labeling device. Tape is great for marking phases, but for more detailed stuff I like having a book of wire numbers or letters to mark stuff. Self laminating write on labels are great as well.
I've had great luck with temo cobalt step bits. For headlamps I've been using the armytek wizard pro, run it all day on a charge. It also unclips from the headband and has a magnet to clip to metal. Thanks for the content!
They’re called Robertson bits. Nice vid young man.
Yes, thank you.
both words can be used. like Flat Head or you can say Slotted.
young man?? what tha
Actually, the term "flat head" comes from "flat head screws" that have a flat head and taper towards the "auger" postion of the screw that allow the head to be flush to the work surface like wood screws, as opposed to machine screws that portrude from the suflrface being fastened, which back in the day were exclusively slotted. The correct term is flat blade screw driver.
Been in it for years just mho but I like to go with an small pouch that holds my basic hand tool ie. lineman , 10 in 1 , stripper , diagonal , / the rest I keep in an bag that's organized , it may not seem like it but big bags even with shoulder straps can pinch nerves and cause problems with your back and the like over the years 👍
Thanks, 🙏 you are so well equipped for your job .
I work in IT in the field. About half of the tools listed are what I would put on my list. My big thing is that I use metric and not ASE. I have also been looking for a decent magnetic screwdriver since I have the chance to encounter a variety of screw caps. Thankfully 60% of what I do is with a PZ1/PZ2 driver but that other 40% is nut drivers, wrenches, various power/network testing tools, pliers, a laptop, and a drill. but I have been trying to make a balance between having a good catch all kit to carry in and leaving stuff in the van.
Those one-handed sawzalls are really useful too, should be your 2nd power tool after a drill.
I think you mean one-hand bandsaws
@@BULLTRONHERO Bandsaws are great, but you can do more with a sawzall. Personally, I'd get a sawzall first.
@@guitarguync You most certainly can do a lot, but it's far easier to not mangle unholy fuck out of your EMT and large cables (250+) and 3/0 etc. with the bandsaw.
@@guitarguync I guess I should also specify that I'm in Commercial
Are’s we not going to talk about the awesome impression of cutting a live wire 😂😂😂😂
Nice video I start tomorrow as an electrician apprentice thanks for the video
In my past experience getting a holster for the impact gun especially one with a clip is so convenient. I like that i can keep it strapped to me without falling out if I’m in a persons home or a crawl space where I don’t want it falling out. Also I use the smaller pouches that will just hold my Essentials, and that would go on the same belt as the screw gun holster. Unfortunately I haven’t found a brand that makes the two so I get the husky pouch, and some off brand holster
Love the channel! What is the brand of that black pouch? I’ve been looking for something similar and haven’t had any luck
I’d like to know this too! It looks exactly like what I’m looking for
Klein Tools 5167 11-Pocket Tool Pouch. I have the same one
NICE TOOLS BRO
Thank you you really helped me going into the electrical field thank you have a great day
Thanks for your thoughts on this, I am currently thinking about becoming an apprentice and Ill take that advice to heart.
having a tape that has measurements on the bottom can be handy when working overhead too
That's a great idea actually. I've not seen many of those in Home Depot or the local supply houses so I just never think about it it but you're right...great idea!
Klein tools are exchangeable at Home Depot, no questions asked so when I blow mine up I can just get new ones for free
klein doesn't replace "blown up pliers"
michael gaffney how? I’ve taken my lines men’s and strippers to Home Depot, both with holes in them, and the replaced them
Zamb_ pro tip, buy used Klein tools off Craigslist or other sites for cheap and return them to Home Depot for new tools :D
thanks for the presentation. great content!
Very useful information! Thanks man.
Should make a video of the power tools you'll need. Getting a portable band saw made me enjoy being an electrician
James iPad man I really want to make one badly! I've got so many damn videos I want to do on more advanced stuff too. I'm going to do that but I'm trying to start these slow and from the very beginning so they can be watched by green Apprentices from day 1 and then start ramping it up as we go
12V Milwaukee bandsaw kit for cutting flex, MC, Kindorf, unistrut, EMT, liquid-tight, rigid, and bolts is best $160 I ever spent.
Jules Bartow the dewalt has speed control, very handy for cutting armour cable without hitting the wires inside
Yep. Barely circle your way around PVC, AC, MC, ... Milwaukee is variable speed too. 12V is light weight & capable.
Fuck that you shouldn’t have to buy any power tools your employer should provide you all that shit and if they don’t you work for a shit company
9:04 this dude gotta live in Texas. I know the sound of that bird in the background
SoCal same lmao
That's a Eurasian Collared dove
Also Awl, center punch, chisel, & small hammer, Chalk Line (which can be used as Plumbs your Bob), Cable cutter (for heavy gauge wire), make sure your level is Magnetic, Blue ele Tape, set of Stubby Drivers, Hole Punches, adjustable wrench, EMT Benders, Fishes, i find a Chalk Bag really handy for PARTS & a Rope, a circuit tracer & jumper wires to tap into junctions, Safety Gear (huge list) its kind of Job Specific : )
Great video and full of very good advice. Man, you don't know how much you're helping those who are entering the trade! Great stuff you have! I'm from Costa Rica, and in my country it's very difficult to find good tool brands, like Knipex, Channnelock or Klein, and if you are able to import them somehow, they price grows twice, due to absurdly high taxes. I'm looking to get one Klein tool pouch, like yours, but I'll have to save more money. And wait a couple of weeks.
Industrial all the way man I've never done residential or commercial going on my 3rd yr of apprenticeship
How much you get pay per hour?
$17.20hr with free insurance and $5.50hr more going to retirement
I think the whole package for a third year is close to $30 an hour
Tim Mcpherson are you in the union ?
Yes I am
I'm about to graduate from a trades school in the summer. Going into my apprenticeship soon after, being a female residential electrician and knowing there aren't many of us, any pointers ? Been told all kinds of things but wanted to know from someone with experience. I work for Lowe's, so I'm good on tools. 😁
Mandy Babel Lmfaoo I work at Lowe’s so I’m good with tools 😂😂😂This is the funniest Shxt I have seen today !!
Not too sure what's funny bout working at Lowes
@@jasonmarroking4357 Not good with tools, good on tools asshole. She probably has an employee discount so was speaking to that effect.
I wish u would try to energize my panel....
Try not to emphasize so much on being a female and just focus on being a safe electrician and learning something new everyday day. Food for thought, good luck.
This is an awesome vid. Pretty awesome channel altogether. I am a General for residential remodel and I try to get the 411 from the trade pros. Today, amongst other things, I learned about the strippers with the screw cutters. So many times I have had to cut screws for covers on a backsplash. Yee-haw!! Also did not know about the long shaft 6 in 1's Good Stuff!!
Thank you for the video. I just got accepted to work as a apprentice electrician with 0 experience. I feel so blessed and fortunate. This video has helped me figure out what I need for basic stuff. Really appreciate it.
Hows the apprenticeship going? I'm looking into one now, wanted to know if it was what you expected.
@@killswitch921 Today was my second day. I'm really enjoying it so far. As far as my expectations I honestly didn't walk into it with any. I got lucky with where I got accepted which was a small family business. Everyone is nice and willing to teach. Making sure you know what you're doing and how to do it.
One thing to remember, the better tools you buy, the more likely they are to walk off with somebody else. One job had some really sticky fingered bleeps, I lost 6 lineman's pliers on that job, not to mention the many other things that walked off. You didn't go to lunch and leave your tool bag around. Once the stuff was stolen from my car on that job.
You'll definitely be safe with the Ryobi neon green ;)
So true dude. Now that's why I never leave my stuff unattended ever again.
Look after your tools then. When you go for breaks pad lock your box
I guess that’s one good thing about being a residential electrician. Only a few crews on a site at most. 15 years I’ve never even heard of tools being stolen.
6 pairs? That's your fault now, bro. You're leaving your shit unattended or just not paying attention.
Why people get in the comments and speak negative, it's 70/30 , and the 30% goes into tool quality, point being people always speak top quality brand , like they forget about the (know how) ? I'd be impressed with a guy creating magic with harbor freight tools than a guy who has top brand tools but his work is half way decent,...😎
Christopher Brown couldn’t agree more. Shake them haters off...
Marvel060 dude first of all I was not talking to you , so fuck you, I'm not the one to do this internet back and forth , so watch your mouth I'll only say this once , now if you have anything else to say it needs to be with is meeting face to face , if not , don't waste my time playing UA-cam gangster, ...
Christopher Brown lmao what are u gonna do virtually try to beat his ass? Bruh it’s fucking UA-cam. Quit being a ignorant fuck and stop acting tough on the internet. Literally NO ONE knows you and literally NO ONE gives a SINGLE FUCK about you.
20 + years in construction started in masonry then carpentry now 15 months in electrical (commercial) I recommend the Klein 11 in 1 multiplier and the klein 15 in 1 nut driver tool also a 6ft mason's or carpenters stick rules they are priceless if working in tight place or by yourself. I love my 25ft fatmax but that 6ft mason's rule has helped plenty. Thanks for the great videos
Sorry autocorrect got me Klein 11 in 1 multi tool not multiplier
Thank you for putting this together and sharing your information. Applications for my local IBEW apprenticeship begins next week Monday. Gonna send that in and gather all the info and tools in the meantime. Your videos have inspired and helped me out so I just wanna say thanks again. Take care
No problem my friend
The IBEW sends you a tool list, this guy is a home gamer, you won't need a drill and your hand tool list is much more in depth
Nathaniel Gardener k