Confined Corner

Tools of the trade.

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by

EchoCanyon
in ,

Tools of the trade

So, a question everyone beginning probably has is, what tools do I need for the job? Depending on the company and location, that can be a tricky question. Some companies might furnish all the tools required to work for them, others will provide only the more expensive tools, and some might provide power tools but not hand tools.

While every workplace is unique, it’s always a good idea to ask what tools you’ll need. If you don’t get a clear answer, consider investing in some basics. Regardless of the company’s policy, having your own tools can be empowering. They’re yours to use as you see fit, and you can take them with you to your next job, giving you a sense of independence and control.

Here is a basic list of tools you might need or will make your life easier!

Hand Tools

  • Combo wrenches
    • Metric
    • Standard
    • Reversible ratchet (Not needed but nice to have.)
  • Sockets (3/8″ or 1/2″ drive your choice)
    • Shallow
      • Metric
      • Standard
    • Deep
      • Metric
      • Standard
  • Ratchets (3/8″ or 1/2″ drive your choice)
    • Stubby
    • Swivel
  • Hammers
    • Nonmarring
      • Brass
      • Dead blow
    • Full fledge
      • 2-4lbs mini sledge (Might be called a drillers hammer)
      • Claw hammer
      • Ball peen
  • Measuring devices
    • 25′- 35′ tape (cheater if you are still learning)
    • 6″ caliper
    • Speed square
    • T square
    • Torpedo level
    • I-beam level
  • Screwdriver set (These are not for prying)
  • Prybars
  • Wedges
  • Bull pins
  • Plier set
    • Lineman
    • Side cutter
    • Slip joint (Often called Channel locks)
    • Locking pliers (Often called Vicegrips)
  • Punch and chisel set
  • Marking tools
    • Carbide scribe
    • Permanent marker
    • Pen
    • Pencil
    • Soapstone holder
  • Drill bits
  • Tool bag (Bag or Backpack)
  • Razor knife (With extra blades)

Power tools

  • Mid torque impact
  • Drill
  • Impact driver
  • Flashlights
    • Headlamp
    • Handheld
    • Worklight (Optional)
  • Grinder 4-1/2″
    • Corded
    • Cordless (Optional)
  • Extension Cords
    • 25′ (10/3 and/or 16/3)
    • 50′ (10/3)
    • In-line GFCI with power block 15-20amp (Use at the end of extension cord to keep from tripping entire circuit)

While this list may seem long and scary, it might be better once you fully determine what you need. I have made the list to include the most common to least common items you may need.

Power tools

When buying power tools, you should borrow some tools. Not all power tools are created equal, and you will find that by using them if they are not common issues. You will also want to look at the catalogs and find out what brand has all the cordless tools that you need, as once you are on a battery platform, it can be costly to switch over.

Most of the guys I have worked with use Milwaukee tools. Don’t get me wrong—they are some excellent tools. However, they have one major issue: the batteries start to rattle loose after a while. On multiple occasions, I needed help running an impact because the battery would rattle loose, causing a slowdown and major frustration while working.

Aside from the sparkies, I am the odd man out with all of my Dewalt stuff on site. I haven’t had any issues with any of the tools, but some of the impacts don’t hit as hard. The grease gun has fewer features but has been reliable. But both brands get the job done at the end of the day. I know some operators even have store brands such as Ryobi, Kobalt, and Bauer; they all work. Now you will probably get some crap from your crew for bringing in some generic brand tools but don’t worry; all that matters is that it gets the job done, not to mention you can laugh at them for their tool truck bill.