I loved the blue handle hybrid pliers. I just can't keep them from rusting. Even just sitting in a gang box on site, they just rust up. Southwire has a competitive version of it, but those are the back ups back up.
Klein Tools suck, Harbor Freight quality with a expensive brand name. Do yourselves a favor and invest in Whia and Knipex if you need Tools. They're about the same price as Klein but more quality. Once you go German you don't go back lol.
@@brandonknight7240 Nope, I am in my late 30's. Don't care where it's made as long as it's quality made. Now don't think I don't believe in supporting American companies, I do. Most of my Power Tools are American made. I have tons of Snap-On hand tools for automotive work. It's just in my professional trade as a Low-Voltage tech I use tools that will not fail me. I started out with Southwire then switched to Klein and it felt like once a month I was having to buy replacements and fighting the warranty people. Talked to a few other trades in Electrical and Low Voltage and they all pointed me towards Wiha and Knipex. Heck when my Father left me his Tools he had a pair of Knipex wire strippers. They must be at least 30 years old, still sharp as ever. I have a couple of specialty tools made by Klein tools such as a punch-down tool for Ethernet and a VDV scout but that's about it.
Your really pushing Klein,it would be nice by you saying there a sponsor or at least getting free tools and i should include Milwaukee too!! I used to use Klein pliers for years until i bought a pair of Knipex. Now i use only Knipex pliers
A while ago he put out a video dissing Klein’s meters. Now he uses them in at least some of his videos. Dustin is an ambitious young man, and a fine and generous fellow.
I agree though. Never once have I ever used anything smaller than 14 gauge. Need strippers that do strictly #6 to #14. Granted I’m only 2 years into this trade so take that as you will.
depends on where you work, you are doing for construction, us that work in factories and controls, the smaller ones come in handy and very rarely do i run into a 6 or 8. ive tried the harbor freight doyle multi and i do not like them.
you live in texas right just make a mount for your voltage tester and just attach it to your gun tht should have the laser and flashlight attached to it already lol
You call it picky, I call it ergonomics. When you have to strip and loop two or three hundred wires in an eight hour shift saving that extra half inch of wrist movement makes a world of difference.
Keep being picky, man! Especially in a video where the tool manufacturer is probably seeing it (cough cough). It's good feedback, and all your points are dead on. btw, the Ideal 45-418 and 45-124 strippers are all 6-14 AWG solid... But they def have that slightly "breakable" feel.
Ok I found them. Took all of a 1 min, using Google. Sorry for making scene. www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-2005N-Crimper-Stripper/dp/B07WTRVZ18/ref=asc_df_B07WTRVZ18/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385172629843&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11170257012928954642&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009939&hvtargid=pla-824341095961&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=73789135410&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385172629843&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11170257012928954642&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009939&hvtargid=pla-824341095961
As for plug testers I highly recommend the klein circuit breaker finder. It is a plug tester that comes with a receiver to quickly find breakers. HUGE time saver! Preparing for demo making it safe for people when there are multiple panels and sensitive areas to be left undisturbed in a 50+ year old building that has been hacked over the years.... yeah absolutely the very best tool for the job! It's also inexpensive no brainer.
I bought both.. when you don't need the breaker finder function, the digital readout is very handy. The GFCI tester also tells you how long it took to trip, and if you plug in a hi-load appliance like a heat gun or hair dryer into the other socket of the same outlet, you can monitor the voltage drop for troubleshooting high resistance in a circuit.
The gray handle multi plier has replaced my linesman which now stay in the bag... I find cutting no problem but I hated the fact of no fishtape puller. So I cut one in with my Dremel and they are perfect! That "laser" pointer is the bomb! No klein hawkbill knife eh?
That's why I cut in the other style puller. The multi plier comes with the in between the handles style puller... that style always slips. I cut a space in the handle for non slip style puller between the handle and the hinge.
Just watched you on a podcast at the Essential Craftsman site and came over here to see what you are all about. I'm already loving the channel! I started wiring houses and shops when I was 14, learned from my Stepdad who was an electrician for 25 years. We lost him back in 1985, but what I learned from him, I use everyday and it makes me think of him often and with great memories, especially when I grab a tool with his initials on it. I now work as a Maintenance Mechanic II for the University of Washington, which not only allows me to hone my skills as an electrician, but also in other areas as well. We have over 50 gas appliances here, and over the years I have been able to troubleshoot all kinds of issues. And like you mentioned in the podcast, everyday is different. That's what makes my job so interesting. One day I might be running conduit to add a circuit here or there, the next day I'm the IT guy, or the fire systems guy, the security systems guy and on and on.... Plumbing and carpentry are not far behind, however my favorite thing is making up panels. I'm a little OCD, so making up a panel, and having it look really good behind the door that most people will never see is just one of those things that makes the job even more enjoyable. I picked this video as my first one because I am, always looking to see what great tools are available out there. You have an awesome way of explaining things, you seem humble and yet confident in what you know and are willing to share here. That is a great combination in today's world. Thanks, and I am definitely subscribing here.
On point! Exactly right with what I thought about some of the Klein multi tools!! Keep doing your thing D rep’n for us electricians out here!! We appreciate you and can’t wait for more!!!
Great tool tutorial Dustin 👍you're really promoting Klein. I hope they take notice and sponsor you! I'm rocking the gray and black handle multi pliers. They have two big flaws that Klein hasn't addressed yet. Don't sheer 8/32 screws with these! I've broke three pair doing so. The other problem is a raised lip on the inside the pliers, that will score your ground wires twisting pigtails for multi switch location before your Buchanan sleeves are installed. Causing them to break off.
My favorite strippers for residential wiring come from Gardner Bender. They do NM sheath on 12-2 and 14-2,, 14 and 12Ga solid conductor, and have a non contact potential detector built into the handle, (Really handy with the Newbies). They also have 6-32, 8-32 and 10-32 bolt trimmers in the handle. And, finally the eye twister is right next to the stripper holes for the conductors. It took a day to get used to them. But now for running residential, remodel, and service, (90% of what I do), they are invaluable. And, by the way, most of what folks think are combination Phillips and slot screw heads are actually Robinson square drive, and slotted. Canada requires the square drive, and the US requires slotted. The manufacturers thus developed a combination for the North American market which has both. If you get the “Combo” or “Combi” tips for your multi-driver, or a dedicated screw driver for them, it is the handiest thing since the original Leatherman multi-tool, or a pocket knife. Klein and Milwaukee, both have them available. Hopefully other manufacturers will soon.
I prefer the Klein 11048. Dual wire stripper. It has two #12, two #14, and one #10. We call them "resi strippers" for residential. You can double your speed using them when you get proficient. Anything larger than #10 I use a knife, anything smaller I have low volt tools. Non Contact testers... Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester.
14:29 Yep, same here, and definitely didn’t need to tell me😂. Just grew up around knjves and guns and had my first knife at 5, and shot my first gun at 5 ½ 😁 Heck, (here’s how old I am……if can guess), when I went to school, I ALWAYS carried a pocket knife, was usually my black Camo tanto style folder that got from my uncle who was in military (in a certain area of expertise). So yep, at 12 switched over from my Swiss Army knife to my other knife and haven’t stopped carrying it yet. Also works great on jobsites😉
The only Klein brand stuff in my tool box is a tick tracer with built in light builb. Still have good feelings when I used their curved handle wire stripper in trade school. Will consider add more Klein elements 😅 thanks a lot for information
Check out the Milwaukee Fastback knife with reversable phillips & slotted screwdriver. Remove the tip and it's a 1/4" drive socket. Flips open with a push button (you'll have to loosen the Tory just enough to make it easy). # 48-22-1540
Sorry man, I rabbit holed on trying to find you a NCVT with flashlight and laser and came up empty. You can get Klein branded [Damn near everything I use, but I’m exclusively low voltage / IT] with IR thermometers, laser distance finder, and a few types of flashlight - but I didn’t see any which combined laser & flashlight functionality. I found a couple on eBay, but they were under $10 and looked like toys - and I can’t in good conscience point you in that direction. If you should stumble across one, hit me up on Gmail with the details, and I’ll get it underway to you. Thanks for the excellent content.
Doing pool electric I use everything from 18/5 low volt up to #2 awg, so my strippers always have to go up to #6 awg. I constantly find these “multi tools” do infact do multiple things, however they don’t do any one thing WELL/properly. They always skimp in one area or another, like the handles not being long enough to be good lineman’s, the strip gauges not big enough/economical enough to use as go to strippers, etc. “Single use” tools will always be my go to.
If Klein doesn't sponsor you, they should. I get it 99.9% of electricians believe in Klein tools and not for no reason but their are other exceptionally high quality tools. You will never catch a self respecting mechanic using Klein tools. They feel the same way you do about Klein only for them, Snap On is the source of all proper tools and most of them will also consider MAC. I love your videos! Keep them coming!
Lol I'm similar. I don't use those non contact voltage testers myself. That Plug Checker is awesome you're who I learned of it from. I carry a pocket knife, Dewalt Tanto (pretty handy) and a Leatherman wave+ and the Klein pocket multimeter EDC I've been able to trouble shoot while chilling at someone's house and didn't have my full rig and kit
haha i totally thought he was using the IR thermometer version unaware of it reading the temp 13:06 but on the subject of multi tools just buy the IR thermometer version as that still works quite well as a laser pointer and it will read the temp as a bonus. What we need is a rechargeable Volt tick with IR and a light. drives me insane none of Kleins tools are rechargeable... type C with an 18650 would put you way ahead !!!! no more type B or minis PLEASE.
Ideal recently donated a lot of tools at my local electrical supply store. So I've been testing out some of their hand tools. Currently using their Stripper and multi tool screwdriver and they work great
@@leonardo1229 here in Canada ideal wire nuts are the industry standard. We call them cantwists. I also have the ideal wire stripper and in my opinion it's on par with the klien ones. I also use the Milwaukee linesman pliers I think they are awesome. Here in Canada klien tools are very expensive. Everything is extremely expensive and electrical is an underpaid trade. I'm working on getting out of Canada and into the US.
Be PICKY!! Voice yourself and your opinions! I agree with all your picky stuff and ways! Glad to see I'm not the only picky one and thinks deeply on the work, and all the ways of doing our picky stuff. 😄
Have you tried the circuit breaker finder by Klein tools ? This tool is the end to having to have someone stand at a receptacle while somebody else flips breakers .....A MUST HAVE....
Non Contact testers... Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester. Hands down the best. Most reliable tester I have used. I have bought and tried many different ones. the Fluke was always the most consistent out of them all. I would test next to other electricians' testers and the fluke was always right.
Can you recommend a decent/good Ferrule crimping pliers, which is better round or square. I am not a pro like you I do little projects and I am a Ham Operator, not looking to cheap out but I don’t need to spend 100 or 200 for a pair. Thank You
Thanks Justin great video as usual, I have to agree with you on these things as well and the end product I would agree as well too. But I use the Milwaukee new one that has interchangeable tips on the end as well as a good razor knife for good scoring and getting those precise Cuts as well as working in a box or panel for quick maintenance or even just to adjust something. I like it because I can actually score the cover plates so I don't feel the pain off of a switch when I have to work on it and I can always use a flat head attachment on the bit so that I can take it off all-in-one tool
What happened to the Rack-a-tiers Croc Jr. you used to rock? I bought one, and the little red bolt-on Romex jacket stripper attachment. Phuckin wonderbar!
I have the knipex forged electrician pliers which are great but they lack torque on the pliers end because they are long and far from the fulcrum and the cutter being placed near the fulcrum is a problem at times. So, when working at height, I find myself bringing most tools in addition to these pliers. I use them 90% of the time, but I still need the other pliers also. I carry individual screw drivers because of speed. I can’t stand multi bit screwdrivers. To each there own i guess.
I said the same thing about that new Klein receptacle tester. Changes game. Practticaly a simple multi meter., especialy if hu use an adapter. Can test bare wire and lighting receptacles for voltage.I have 3 in different bags. Don't use the old style any more. Super idea koo n klein
Point on the "lineman" pliers. Do you know what their actual use is besides the cutting head? Lol I was an electrician for about 6yrs before I actually used them in the way they were MEANT to be used. I'm not sure what you call the little twisty wire thing that you put on heavy gauge wire that hangs off a power pole. But those pliers are for twisting those together to hold the wire. Most of us just use them either to cut, or as a hammer lol
The Milwaukee razor knife might be a good competitor. It’s a razor blade not a traditional knife but it’s because it’s fast to change. But the new fastback has a flat head and philips bit on it. The flat head is great for prying…
In Theory, couldn't you just drill a new hole for wire bending anywhere you like on the strippers of your choosing? Would there be any downside to doing that?
The low voltage tester is great for me cuz I install car electronics for my job. Radios, remote starts and all that jazz. We have diagrams to locate the wires but sometimes the wire is a different color, multiple same colored wires in the same plug or is a couple pins over from where it says it is in the connector. So using that tester for locating say a brake wire is great. You just keep tapping the brakes and see which wire is turning the tester on and off. Saved me a lot of headaches in the past Haha
I would love some strippers that go down to 6awg. I have some southwire strippers that do that but they suuuuuck imo. If only the Home Depot in my area carried the Klein version but that would be asking too much I guess lol
Dustin I have a Klein flashlight wit the laser pointer but it's not a NCVT lol but the flashlight laser is bad ass.. you never know how much you needed a laser lol
Well it is a 'voltage tester' not a voltage meter or voltage measuring device, it is testing for the presence of AC voltage on the line significant enough to cause the capacitive load within the voltage tester to be triggered from the EM Field created in an AC circuit which is there (albeit small w/o a load) W/o an AC voltage the EM field wouldn't exist, and thus it is a voltage tester.
Those klein multi tool strippers sucks all versions Imean they don’t strip the wire completely they have no leverage for twisting wires it was my biggest waste of money. Kudos to Ideal strippers and Milwaukee multi needle nose pliers. Almost every electrician and apprentice around me uses Milwaukee needle nose strippers here in Montreal. I would use klein multi plier to twist balast wires lol
Hey Dustin, I am a pharmacist in hospital. I really want to become an electrician as a side job. I want to take a c10 license. Do u have any material to hook me up please let me know? If you are in California I want to meet u in person to ask your advises
The problem I have with the needle nose with the added strippers, I always find I don’t have enough surface area of teeth for actually gripping on the needle nose, and that I always just use my regular need nose
When talking about chicken sticks... I know you're Mr Klein, but the Fluke LVD1 is awesome. Light, chicken stick, and clip. Especially if you have to work in crawls or attics (cuz who doesn't), being able to clip the light to something while you work is SOOOOO nice.
Bro knipex installation pliers are soo good using them for like 3 months and i can tell they are best multitool aswell u should get wiha tricut and knipex strix my 3 favourite pliers
For a pocket knife I carry a Leatherman free t4. It’s got Phillips and several Flathead sizes. I’ve always bought non contact testers with flashlights so I don’t try and stick an aluminum pen light on a lug, thankfully it was off.
So just wondering, what if you used a razor blade for cutting the wire insulation. As long as you don't lose a strand or make one brittle it's doing the same thing yea?
i am starting to develop a certain kind of hatred toward that attitude of being an "electrician lite". if you do your job right you have the right tools not some "well it can do it in a pinch" kind of tool. you are not in a pinch you are at work. on top of all that, every nail can be pounded in just as good with a round stone and no one would know after, but if someone sees you they will think less of you. and if i catch someone using a knife on a screw i will chase them out and throw the knife in the trash.
I do not like that plug tester. I prefer the cheaper one. I use the plug tester a lot to know when the right breaker has been shut off. This bigger ones lights DO NOT go out when the power is killed, that bothers the shit out of me. So now i have both
The majority of my tools are Klein but I always used the Ideal strippers ... And I still have my 1st Klein linesman pliers I bought in Oct 1971 and they still have sharp blades , no arc burns ... Good vid Dustin ...
Great job, but you missed one tool that is a necessity. A good small flashlight like a mini mag is always needed if the power is out or you get called out at night.
Thanks for all the videos. They are great have helped a lot. Question: Why do so many people call them needle nose pliers when they are really long nose pliers? Needle nose is different.
i find with the grey and black handle ones are awesome unless you are making connections of like 5 wires or more then regular linemans work better but other then that hands done all day long plus they are so much lighter
Love your videos! The first part of this review is kind of hit or miss. Take a tip from Project Farm and clearly identify the toold that you are reviewing.
work for 1week in scandinavia as electrician and you will realise how much unessecary shit you have to deal with. the standard in america when it comes to electrical installations is so shit lol.
I work on the distro side and have a pair of klien needle nose that have a single #12 stripper. Its perfect as thats the only small Guage wire I deal with. The whole needle nose is rounded which makes it easy on the hands and perfect for making the crook bends on solid wire. I love it
people are finally starting to get it about the hybrid linemen pliers the grey and black handle ones. i have been using them since they came out and no one believed me until now.
I loved the blue handle hybrid pliers. I just can't keep them from rusting. Even just sitting in a gang box on site, they just rust up. Southwire has a competitive version of it, but those are the back ups back up.
I saw my boss’ Klein pair, but I wanted one that could strip sheathing. The southwire pair is a go-to tool and will always be in my inventory
Klein Tools suck, Harbor Freight quality with a expensive brand name.
Do yourselves a favor and invest in Whia and Knipex if you need Tools. They're about the same price as Klein but more quality. Once you go German you don't go back lol.
Ill bet anything ur in ur 20's
What about supporting an American tool maker? I use klein everyday
@@brandonknight7240 Nope, I am in my late 30's. Don't care where it's made as long as it's quality made. Now don't think I don't believe in supporting American companies, I do. Most of my Power Tools are American made. I have tons of Snap-On hand tools for automotive work. It's just in my professional trade as a Low-Voltage tech I use tools that will not fail me. I started out with Southwire then switched to Klein and it felt like once a month I was having to buy replacements and fighting the warranty people. Talked to a few other trades in Electrical and Low Voltage and they all pointed me towards Wiha and Knipex. Heck when my Father left me his Tools he had a pair of Knipex wire strippers. They must be at least 30 years old, still sharp as ever. I have a couple of specialty tools made by Klein tools such as a punch-down tool for Ethernet and a VDV scout but that's about it.
I've been using that pocket knife for years!! Great edge and$20!! The Klien tester I like has an temp laser on it, love it and its super handy!
Your really pushing Klein,it would be nice by you saying there a sponsor or at least getting free tools and i should include Milwaukee too!! I used to use Klein pliers for years until i bought a pair of Knipex. Now i use only Knipex pliers
By you tube terms and conditions he has to divulge sponsorships
A while ago he put out a video dissing Klein’s meters. Now he uses them in at least some of his videos. Dustin is an ambitious young man, and a fine and generous fellow.
I agree though. Never once have I ever used anything smaller than 14 gauge. Need strippers that do strictly #6 to #14. Granted I’m only 2 years into this trade so take that as you will.
wait till you do tons and tons of ballasts you love the 16&18s lol
Klein tools are the BOMB. Best stuff I've ever bought for electrical work.
I was the same way until I used Knipex. Replaced all my Klein.
Dustin take a look at Knipex Tools 13 82 8, 6 in 1 Electrical Installation Pliers with Comfort Grip Handle, Red and Blue on Amazon .
depends on where you work, you are doing for construction, us that work in factories and controls, the smaller ones come in handy and very rarely do i run into a 6 or 8. ive tried the harbor freight doyle multi and i do not like them.
what do you think about the Milwaukee Tool 9-inch 7-in-1 Combination Wire Strippers ?
did u took the spring off the stripers??
you live in texas right just make a mount for your voltage tester and just attach it to your gun tht should have the laser and flashlight attached to it already lol
the grey handle i use daily
I have that grey and black one and hate it
Do Multitool hammer
Tip down carry. HA!
You call it picky, I call it ergonomics.
When you have to strip and loop two or three hundred wires in an eight hour shift saving that extra half inch of wrist movement makes a world of difference.
The knipex installation pliers is a major go-to when making up devices. It’s a joy to use
Totally agreed, my Klein installation pliers sit in a drawer mostly.
Got a model number for the ones you like???????????????
@@buggyduggy2431 the 13 82 8 is what I use. Non insulated, but fits super well in my hand
@@arlynnmast8790 Yep, that’s the one.
@@buggyduggy2431 what is Dustin doing
I have Klein everything EXCEPT the gray multitool. I went with red handle Milwaukee's and don't regret it.
You are dead on in your praise of the Klein Plug tester. It is outstanding! It saved me hours of diagnostic work cleaning up a botched up remuddle.
Keep being picky, man! Especially in a video where the tool manufacturer is probably seeing it (cough cough). It's good feedback, and all your points are dead on.
btw, the Ideal 45-418 and 45-124 strippers are all 6-14 AWG solid... But they def have that slightly "breakable" feel.
Ideal makes the best strippers ✌️
Klein makes a 6-12 stranded stripper. As a solar guy we almost exclusively use 6 8 and 10 wire
@@dudeman650 I think his point was, you're still missing the 14, and the fact you might need to back to truck to grab another stripper is annoying
Does anyone have the link to the red handled pliers?? I cannot find them anywhere
Yeah serious help this man out! I need the link too
Ok I found them. Took all of a 1 min, using Google. Sorry for making scene.
www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-2005N-Crimper-Stripper/dp/B07WTRVZ18/ref=asc_df_B07WTRVZ18/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385172629843&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11170257012928954642&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009939&hvtargid=pla-824341095961&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=73789135410&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385172629843&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11170257012928954642&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009939&hvtargid=pla-824341095961
As for plug testers I highly recommend the klein circuit breaker finder. It is a plug tester that comes with a receiver to quickly find breakers. HUGE time saver! Preparing for demo making it safe for people when there are multiple panels and sensitive areas to be left undisturbed in a 50+ year old building that has been hacked over the years.... yeah absolutely the very best tool for the job! It's also inexpensive no brainer.
I bought both.. when you don't need the breaker finder function, the digital readout is very handy. The GFCI tester also tells you how long it took to trip, and if you plug in a hi-load appliance like a heat gun or hair dryer into the other socket of the same outlet, you can monitor the voltage drop for troubleshooting high resistance in a circuit.
Maybe Klein can, like, combine these two? 😁
This is the most PG video I’ve ever watched involving strippers.
I love my Milwaukee 6-in-1 needle nose. It's become my go to stripper, and it's a solid enough needle nose for most my daily use.
15:33 @Electricianu check out the Milwaukee FastBack razor knife with the bit driver, you’ve a Philips flat combination bit with it.
You can get this with a knife or razor - one of my favorite tools!
Millwaukee 7 in 1 is a great multi tool for rough in and trimming out ressy
Gray angle is my go to, it just feel good in my hands but I keep my regular size linesman for heavier jobs
Have you ever tried knipex? They are Awesome!
Which ones, they have several?????????
He made a video about Knipex
Where's the Knipex version?
The gray handle multi plier has replaced my linesman which now stay in the bag... I find cutting no problem but I hated the fact of no fishtape puller. So I cut one in with my Dremel and they are perfect! That "laser" pointer is the bomb! No klein hawkbill knife eh?
do you feel like you have to put way more effort in gripping with the custom fish tape puller?
That's why I cut in the other style puller. The multi plier comes with the in between the handles style puller... that style always slips. I cut a space in the handle for non slip style puller between the handle and the hinge.
Anyone who works with tools a ton always wants one that does just one more thing. I know exactly how that feels.
Just watched you on a podcast at the Essential Craftsman site and came over here to see what you are all about. I'm already loving the channel! I started wiring houses and shops when I was 14, learned from my Stepdad who was an electrician for 25 years. We lost him back in 1985, but what I learned from him, I use everyday and it makes me think of him often and with great memories, especially when I grab a tool with his initials on it. I now work as a Maintenance Mechanic II for the University of Washington, which not only allows me to hone my skills as an electrician, but also in other areas as well. We have over 50 gas appliances here, and over the years I have been able to troubleshoot all kinds of issues. And like you mentioned in the podcast, everyday is different. That's what makes my job so interesting. One day I might be running conduit to add a circuit here or there, the next day I'm the IT guy, or the fire systems guy, the security systems guy and on and on.... Plumbing and carpentry are not far behind, however my favorite thing is making up panels. I'm a little OCD, so making up a panel, and having it look really good behind the door that most people will never see is just one of those things that makes the job even more enjoyable. I picked this video as my first one because I am, always looking to see what great tools are available out there. You have an awesome way of explaining things, you seem humble and yet confident in what you know and are willing to share here. That is a great combination in today's world. Thanks, and I am definitely subscribing here.
Those grey/red handles never make it out of my bag, hate em
I wish I knew about quality tools when I first started haha, but eventually I’ll replace the ones I have at the moment
On point! Exactly right with what I thought about some of the Klein multi tools!! Keep doing your thing D rep’n for us electricians out here!! We appreciate you and can’t wait for more!!!
I wanna buy the Dustin-Do-All Multi-Tool.
Hey Dustin, have you worked on or installed a leviton smart panel at all? What did you think about them if you have. Thanks.
You should create your own tool and get a patten on it.....
Great tool tutorial Dustin 👍you're really promoting Klein.
I hope they take notice and sponsor you! I'm rocking the gray and black handle multi pliers. They have two big flaws that Klein hasn't addressed yet. Don't sheer 8/32 screws with these! I've broke three pair doing so. The other problem is a raised lip on the inside the pliers, that will score your ground wires twisting pigtails for multi switch location before your Buchanan sleeves are installed. Causing them to break off.
My favorite strippers for residential wiring come from Gardner Bender. They do NM sheath on 12-2 and 14-2,, 14 and 12Ga solid conductor, and have a non contact potential detector built into the handle, (Really handy with the Newbies). They also have 6-32, 8-32 and 10-32 bolt trimmers in the handle. And, finally the eye twister is right next to the stripper holes for the conductors. It took a day to get used to them. But now for running residential, remodel, and service, (90% of what I do), they are invaluable.
And, by the way, most of what folks think are combination Phillips and slot screw heads are actually Robinson square drive, and slotted. Canada requires the square drive, and the US requires slotted. The manufacturers thus developed a combination for the North American market which has both. If you get the “Combo” or “Combi” tips for your multi-driver, or a dedicated screw driver for them, it is the handiest thing since the original Leatherman multi-tool, or a pocket knife. Klein and Milwaukee, both have them available. Hopefully other manufacturers will soon.
I prefer the Klein 11048. Dual wire stripper. It has two #12, two #14, and one #10. We call them "resi strippers" for residential. You can double your speed using them when you get proficient.
Anything larger than #10 I use a knife, anything smaller I have low volt tools.
Non Contact testers... Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester.
14:29 Yep, same here, and definitely didn’t need to tell me😂. Just grew up around knjves and guns and had my first knife at 5, and shot my first gun at 5 ½ 😁
Heck, (here’s how old I am……if can guess), when I went to school, I ALWAYS carried a pocket knife, was usually my black Camo tanto style folder that got from my uncle who was in military (in a certain area of expertise). So yep, at 12 switched over from my Swiss Army knife to my other knife and haven’t stopped carrying it yet. Also works great on jobsites😉
The only Klein brand stuff in my tool box is a tick tracer with built in light builb.
Still have good feelings when I used their curved handle wire stripper in trade school.
Will consider add more Klein elements 😅 thanks a lot for information
Check out the Milwaukee Fastback knife with reversable phillips & slotted screwdriver. Remove the tip and it's a 1/4" drive socket. Flips open with a push button (you'll have to loosen the Tory just enough to make it easy). # 48-22-1540
Sorry man, I rabbit holed on trying to find you a NCVT with flashlight and laser and came up empty.
You can get Klein branded [Damn near everything I use, but I’m exclusively low voltage / IT] with IR thermometers, laser distance finder, and a few types of flashlight - but I didn’t see any which combined laser & flashlight functionality. I found a couple on eBay, but they were under $10 and looked like toys - and I can’t in good conscience point you in that direction.
If you should stumble across one, hit me up on Gmail with the details, and I’ll get it underway to you.
Thanks for the excellent content.
Doing pool electric I use everything from 18/5 low volt up to #2 awg, so my strippers always have to go up to #6 awg. I constantly find these “multi tools” do infact do multiple things, however they don’t do any one thing WELL/properly. They always skimp in one area or another, like the handles not being long enough to be good lineman’s, the strip gauges not big enough/economical enough to use as go to strippers, etc. “Single use” tools will always be my go to.
If Klein doesn't sponsor you, they should. I get it 99.9% of electricians believe in Klein tools and not for no reason but their are other exceptionally high quality tools. You will never catch a self respecting mechanic using Klein tools. They feel the same way you do about Klein only for them, Snap On is the source of all proper tools and most of them will also consider MAC. I love your videos! Keep them coming!
Lol I'm similar. I don't use those non contact voltage testers myself. That Plug Checker is awesome you're who I learned of it from. I carry a pocket knife, Dewalt Tanto (pretty handy) and a Leatherman wave+ and the Klein pocket multimeter EDC I've been able to trouble shoot while chilling at someone's house and didn't have my full rig and kit
haha i totally thought he was using the IR thermometer version unaware of it reading the temp 13:06 but on the subject of multi tools just buy the IR thermometer version as that still works quite well as a laser pointer and it will read the temp as a bonus. What we need is a rechargeable Volt tick with IR and a light. drives me insane none of Kleins tools are rechargeable... type C with an 18650 would put you way ahead !!!! no more type B or minis PLEASE.
What are your thoughts on ideal tools. I have just purchased their bender and its great
Ideal recently donated a lot of tools at my local electrical supply store. So I've been testing out some of their hand tools. Currently using their Stripper and multi tool screwdriver and they work great
@@leonardo1229 here in Canada ideal wire nuts are the industry standard. We call them cantwists. I also have the ideal wire stripper and in my opinion it's on par with the klien ones. I also use the Milwaukee linesman pliers I think they are awesome. Here in Canada klien tools are very expensive. Everything is extremely expensive and electrical is an underpaid trade. I'm working on getting out of Canada and into the US.
Be PICKY!! Voice yourself and your opinions! I agree with all your picky stuff and ways! Glad to see I'm not the only picky one and thinks deeply on the work, and all the ways of doing our picky stuff. 😄
Have you tried the circuit breaker finder by Klein tools ? This tool is the end to having to have someone stand at a receptacle while somebody else flips breakers .....A MUST HAVE....
Non Contact testers... Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester. Hands down the best. Most reliable tester I have used. I have bought and tried many different ones. the Fluke was always the most consistent out of them all. I would test next to other electricians' testers and the fluke was always right.
Can you recommend a decent/good Ferrule crimping pliers, which is better round or square. I am not a pro like you I do little projects and I am a Ham Operator, not looking to cheap out but I don’t need to spend 100 or 200 for a pair. Thank You
Thanks Justin great video as usual, I have to agree with you on these things as well and the end product I would agree as well too. But I use the Milwaukee new one that has interchangeable tips on the end as well as a good razor knife for good scoring and getting those precise Cuts as well as working in a box or panel for quick maintenance or even just to adjust something. I like it because I can actually score the cover plates so I don't feel the pain off of a switch when I have to work on it and I can always use a flat head attachment on the bit so that I can take it off all-in-one tool
What happened to the Rack-a-tiers Croc Jr. you used to rock? I bought one, and the little red bolt-on Romex jacket stripper attachment. Phuckin wonderbar!
I have the knipex forged electrician pliers which are great but they lack torque on the pliers end because they are long and far from the fulcrum and the cutter being placed near the fulcrum is a problem at times. So, when working at height, I find myself bringing most tools in addition to these pliers. I use them 90% of the time, but I still need the other pliers also.
I carry individual screw drivers because of speed. I can’t stand multi bit screwdrivers. To each there own i guess.
Idk how to directly contact you, however We’re working on Massachusetts reciprocity with Roger Williams in Rhode Island. Continuing Ed, et cetra
I said the same thing about that new Klein receptacle tester. Changes game. Practticaly a simple multi meter., especialy if hu use an adapter. Can test bare wire and lighting receptacles for voltage.I have 3 in different bags. Don't use the old style any more. Super idea koo n klein
I'm glad you make videos. I learn so much "extra" detail that the guys don't want to teach/know. Or like these videos: you're just talking shop
Point on the "lineman" pliers.
Do you know what their actual use is besides the cutting head?
Lol I was an electrician for about 6yrs before I actually used them in the way they were MEANT to be used. I'm not sure what you call the little twisty wire thing that you put on heavy gauge wire that hangs off a power pole. But those pliers are for twisting those together to hold the wire.
Most of us just use them either to cut, or as a hammer lol
I think someone likes klein tools
The Milwaukee razor knife might be a good competitor. It’s a razor blade not a traditional knife but it’s because it’s fast to change. But the new fastback has a flat head and philips bit on it. The flat head is great for prying…
In Theory, couldn't you just drill a new hole for wire bending anywhere you like on the strippers of your choosing? Would there be any downside to doing that?
If you bend the tips of the knifes all the time why don't you grind off the bent tip to the appropriate size flat-head you want? There you go...
The low voltage tester is great for me cuz I install car electronics for my job. Radios, remote starts and all that jazz. We have diagrams to locate the wires but sometimes the wire is a different color, multiple same colored wires in the same plug or is a couple pins over from where it says it is in the connector. So using that tester for locating say a brake wire is great. You just keep tapping the brakes and see which wire is turning the tester on and off. Saved me a lot of headaches in the past Haha
I would love some strippers that go down to 6awg. I have some southwire strippers that do that but they suuuuuck imo. If only the Home Depot in my area carried the Klein version but that would be asking too much I guess lol
Dustin I have a Klein flashlight wit the laser pointer but it's not a NCVT lol but the flashlight laser is bad ass.. you never know how much you needed a laser lol
Well it is a 'voltage tester' not a voltage meter or voltage measuring device, it is testing for the presence of AC voltage on the line significant enough to cause the capacitive load within the voltage tester to be triggered from the EM Field created in an AC circuit which is there (albeit small w/o a load) W/o an AC voltage the EM field wouldn't exist, and thus it is a voltage tester.
Those klein multi tool strippers sucks all versions Imean they don’t strip the wire completely they have no leverage for twisting wires it was my biggest waste of money. Kudos to Ideal strippers and Milwaukee multi needle nose pliers. Almost every electrician and apprentice around me uses Milwaukee needle nose strippers here in Montreal.
I would use klein multi plier to twist balast wires lol
IF WE COULD...... combine everything on the table, hell include the table into one tool that would be dope
Hey Dustin,
I am a pharmacist in hospital. I really want to become an electrician as a side job. I want to take a c10 license. Do u have any material to hook me up please let me know? If you are in California I want to meet u in person to ask your advises
The problem I have with the needle nose with the added strippers, I always find I don’t have enough surface area of teeth for actually gripping on the needle nose, and that I always just use my regular need nose
When talking about chicken sticks... I know you're Mr Klein, but the Fluke LVD1 is awesome. Light, chicken stick, and clip. Especially if you have to work in crawls or attics (cuz who doesn't), being able to clip the light to something while you work is SOOOOO nice.
Southwire makes a hybrid plyer with romex jacket stripper, wire stripper and linesman head for splicing.
I have the new klein 15-1 ratcheting screwdriver but everything else in my bag is milwaukee, they have some solid hand tools
Bro knipex installation pliers are soo good using them for like 3 months and i can tell they are best multitool aswell u should get wiha tricut and knipex strix my 3 favourite pliers
For a pocket knife I carry a Leatherman free t4. It’s got Phillips and several Flathead sizes.
I’ve always bought non contact testers with flashlights so I don’t try and stick an aluminum pen light on a lug, thankfully it was off.
So just wondering, what if you used a razor blade for cutting the wire insulation. As long as you don't lose a strand or make one brittle it's doing the same thing yea?
I haven’t seen anyone really talk about the Milwaukee multi tool yet
i am starting to develop a certain kind of hatred toward that attitude of being an "electrician lite". if you do your job right you have the right tools not some "well it can do it in a pinch" kind of tool. you are not in a pinch you are at work. on top of all that, every nail can be pounded in just as good with a round stone and no one would know after, but if someone sees you they will think less of you. and if i catch someone using a knife on a screw i will chase them out and throw the knife in the trash.
Rack a tiers Crocs strippers. Everyone should try them. Hands down my favorite pair of strippers
I do not like that plug tester. I prefer the cheaper one. I use the plug tester a lot to know when the right breaker has been shut off. This bigger ones lights DO NOT go out when the power is killed, that bothers the shit out of me. So now i have both
The majority of my tools are Klein but I always used the Ideal strippers ... And I still have my 1st Klein linesman pliers I bought in Oct 1971 and they still have sharp blades , no arc burns ... Good vid Dustin ...
Great job, but you missed one tool that is a necessity. A good small flashlight like a mini mag is always needed if the power is out or you get called out at night.
That pocket knife seems Terrible. I'd rather have a Milwaukee Fastback on me than that thing.
Amen to the 6,8,10,12,14 stripper combo rather than the thinner awg stuff
Thanks for all the videos. They are great have helped a lot. Question: Why do so many people call them needle nose pliers when they are really long nose pliers? Needle nose is different.
i find with the grey and black handle ones are awesome unless you are making connections of like 5 wires or more then regular linemans work better but other then that hands done all day long plus they are so much lighter
I like my little grey lineman stripper crimper things lol. great for attics, I don't use them a ton, but handy when i do.
Love your videos! The first part of this review is kind of hit or miss. Take a tip from Project Farm and clearly identify the toold that you are reviewing.
Great information as always, keep the content flowing!
I would really Like to know what tools are in your everyday tool bag? I’m a DYI and love this channel. Keep them coming 👍🏼
In German no Drilling only screwing or waago
Tools like Weidmüller,Knipex,
the NCVT is testing between 2 things = the source of power and the capacitance of your body
work for 1week in scandinavia as electrician and you will realise how much unessecary shit you have to deal with. the standard in america when it comes to electrical installations is so shit lol.
I work on the distro side and have a pair of klien needle nose that have a single #12 stripper. Its perfect as thats the only small Guage wire I deal with. The whole needle nose is rounded which makes it easy on the hands and perfect for making the crook bends on solid wire. I love it
people are finally starting to get it about the hybrid linemen pliers the grey and black handle ones. i have been using them since they came out and no one believed me until now.
Do you really get your knife out for #6? Or do you score it with the biggest size on your strippers? Be honest
You should get a CAD system and design and fabricate your own strippers