Another excellent video Josh. The bit at 14:06 is indeed an Electrician's tool used for the screws on common duplex receptacles. Those screws are designed to be adequately tightened by a slotted, Robertson or phillips screwdriver. But that special bit securely engages those screws for proper tightening. Klein tools are associated with electricians.
ECX bits are designed to fit a specific type of combination head screws that you see on many electrical components and terminals screws. These combination head screws can be turned with either a Phillips, slotted, or square drive screwdriver.
Great ideas, and I really like the Klein open socket set (just forwarded your link to my wife as a hint). The tool I used most often this year was my Anderson Powerpole crimper. After we moved last year, the shack was more-or-less thrown together, and this year I got my DC power cables organized. Great tool for the job.
I picked up a Klein screw driver similar to the one in the video. I was so impressed I picked up a set of impact flip sockets in the modbox that I use all the time at work in the garage.
Your guess about the odd looking bit is correct. It is used by electricians. One of my favorite tools is one I made myself. Take a scrap chunk of 2x4, 3 to 6 inches long. Drill a 5/8" hole along an edge. Make it about an inch deep. Now when I want to solder up a SO-239 I just drop it into the hole, flange up. The idea is the hole should be located so that one corner of the flange is hanging out in space. When I apply the heat, the wood doesn't suck up like a metal vice would.
That Robertson bit at 14:06 is evidence of how Canadians are smarter than we are.😊 They're self centering, but don't cam out the way Philips bits do. Standard on duplex outlets, but a lot of DIYers will just use a Philips or flat blade driver. The Robertson bit is a better choice, and a square drive bit is better than Philips for those screws.
Klein has a 32 piece bit set that is a good accessory to their bit drivers. The bit holder has a hole through it so you can pull out the shaft of the driver, put it through the hole and put it back in the handle to keep them with the driver.
5:45 I’m a Knipex fanboy, but I’m not a professional electrician and don’t strip wires frequently enough to justify a $100 wire stripper. I’m totally with you on this. The Chinesium $10 one works fine for my needs too.
8:08 Yeah, Klein has been knocking it out of the park lately with their screwdrivers and Knect series hand tools lately. Especially when combined with Milwaukee M12 impact drivers.
My M12 set is right at 16 years old, the impact is still going strong, and the drill I had to replace a couple years after getting so it’s probably 13-14years. And for 3/4 of its life it was used everyday as an Electrician The bit is a combo tip (square and flat head) for receptacles (110v socket) Great ideas
Not sure if you follow Doc over at Last Best Tool but he's had me on the Klein tools for a while now. A note on the Knipex pliers, I think the next size up on those cobra jaws has the button lock like the wrench, so, if the additional inch isn't too much size/weight for your kit, the added functionality might make for a better purchase. I have one in my secret santa wishlist this year. Here's hoping!!
Aloha Josh, I really enjoyed watching this video! I have seven tall Craftsman toolboxes for mechanics and electricians tools for almost any project except for Ford trucks, lol. I don’t own any Klein tools at all but after watching this video, I must buy the tools in this video for the very same reasons that you have. BTW, my wife and I will be flying into LAX at the end of next month for the TET Parade on Bolsa Avenue and the TET Festival in Garden Grove. So I am hoping to catch you on the local repeaters while I’m there for a week and plan to bring a my FTM-200DR and my new QT80 rig that I will pick up from the HNL airport next week to use in the so called “Premium SUV” that my wife booked for us. It looks like you have a very impressive garage in the background and for me, it would like walking through a candy store, lol. 😂 Awesome video! 🥰🤙🏻🤙🏻
Make sure you monitor 146.520! You’ll be in little Saigon, there is a chance we can hear each other. Otherwise. W6trw repeater too! Have fun! Chúc mừng năm mới
I am a huge fan of all Klein tools. I use the ModBox Mobile toolbox at work. But I wanted to mention that the Milwaukee M12 Solder iron is very handy for going portable.
Long time listener, first time caller... I swear it is downright crazy how much we seem to be following the same path with tools. Klein has a knect starter set for only $40 with everyhting but the extra bits. Also, the 11 in 1 ratcheting impact driver is interesting, and they have the 10 in 1 "plumber's" impact driver. I will try and get a podcast review done soon, it is way overdue.
That is the HVAC version of that Klein screwdriver. There is also a normal bit driver, and a stubby. Those come separately or in a combo pair. It’s on sale at Lowe’s for Christmas. That set has both hex and torx in the handles. There is also a mini precision driver set like this and a few various bit kits, etc. It’s better to buy that combo and add the nutdriver set, which can be bought separately. Or buy all 3 drivers if you want a second full size handle.
I have the Klein impact screwdriver and love it, but I'd really give a shoutout to Harbor Freight's Icon "meme tool", that thing is super compact and I've been carrying it everywhere. The flex-head mechanism on it comes in handy all the time.
The reason for the Knippex plier wrenches not having teeth, is they are a no mar solution. The Klein tool I use daily, if not multiple times daily is an 8 in 1 stubby that has 6 bits in the handle. It came with two Robertson bits that I removed (I live in the U.S.). I got a Wiha 4mm bit and trimmed the end off with a grinder and added it. I have a set of over 60 micro screwdriver bits that are the industry standard 4mm size. I then replaced the adjustable shaft with a 32766 shaft that came with a 1/4 5/16 flip socket. At its most compact the stubby is 4” long and can extend to 5” long, has 3 Phillips, 2 slotted, and the 4mm adapter in the handle. It is compatible with all my micro drivers. Its big brother is a 14-in-1 Klein (32303 that I also pulled Robertson bits from and replaced one with the 4mm Wiha driver) with a (32934) shaft and four SAE flip sockets on it (1/4 5/16, 3/8 7/16, 1/2 9/16, 5/8 3/4). You can buy the shaft with the flip sockets on it. I then bought the metric version of the shaft that has three flip sockets (7mm 8mm, 10mm 12mm, 13mm 14mm, wish there was a 9mm 11mm). All of the shafts are interchangeable. I also have the new 65500Kinect that handles 3/8 and 1/4 drive sockets, provides a screwdriver handle that is compatible, and both metric and SAE deep flip sockets and standard sockets (so I can ratchet one side while holding the other). I have everything I could need as far as fasteners go.
On the Milwaukee M12 front, strongly recommend checking out their 4-head 'Installation Drill/Driver'. Very, very handy, super flexible, light weight. If was doing a housewarming gift for a new homeowner, that'd be hands down what I'd give them.
Thanks for the Klein tip, as well as the Knipex reminder. Great European company with an excellent pedigree! Regarding the headlamp though, and putting on my former mountain climber hat on for a moment, I think I'd caution against recommending that one for any SOTA work that was remotely serious, as it doesn't appear to be all that durable. The tilting mount that also holds the headstrap or cord looks a little plasticky and could be a weak point. Fine for camping and as a backup though I'm sure. But any serious SOTA person that doesn't do only the drive-up summits will likely sport a Black Diamond or a Petzel, maybe Biolite. Anyway, cool, useful reviews and thanks again for all you do. Your vids definitely helped me towards my General back in May.
Ok, always amazed. I also watch Adam, he has referenced Nile Red, who has referred to Scott Manly. Watch all of you. And Randy sits on the curb.(still love him though.
I use the bajeebus out of my LTT screwdriver at work and have a lot of Klein gear. Couple notes, the Klein ratcheting screwdrivers aren't very good due to the slack and back force of the ratchet mechanism. I honestly had stopped using mine prior to the LTT being released. Klein does sell some automatic strippers for about $30 that are pretty solid. I definitely think you made the correct decision with the 12v gear. Unless you are doing harder work there just isn't a reason to step up to the 18-20v these days. I recently bought the Makita 18v oil impulse impact driver for work with a pair of the little 2Ah batteries to keep it light. That thing is seriously impressive at how quiet it is, the price is really high though.
Thanks for the feedback! The LTT has a really good ratchet drive! I’d try different power tools, but I am not a professional, so it’s pretty wasteful. The M12 has pretty much been able to do it all so for.
When you say "nothing like blowing through an IKEA build", especially for the klein tools allen bits and flip sockets, you better get the metric ones (not SAE)!
Hey Josh - what is the BEST Ham Radio steak? Porterhouse? Ribeye? Just kidding - your equipment reviews are really useful and are pertinent way beyond the Ham Radio realm. Thanks!
For the wire stripper/cutter I like the Irwin style self-adjusting stripper. I have the Harbor Freight look-alike and for me it's been much more reliable than the T-Rex jaw ones like you showed.
Let me say, you don't need to fall into the 'Tim Taylor' more power. Power equals weight. Keep the weight down to just what you need. Don't swing a 32oz. hammer when 16 will do.
Calling on all hams to track down what frequencies the drones on the east coast are being controlled by and reporting it to any authority (like local law enforcement) Since a lot of people are getting scared right now by this "unknown" invasion it seems appropriate that we as hams can potentially make an impact like in our recent hurricanes down south. All it would take is to monitor and report if you are on the east coast or any of the affected areas.... 73's and happy signal hunting
Vk5cmp I need a computer with the disc holder, small enough to put my encryption back on my radio. I lost my three-quarter encryption. Or maybe tell Professor on the cb hook it up here in a bit I meant the same place David was not too far from the vanormy tx . Have you heard from Professor?
Good recommendations. The Klein screwdriver will go on my short list. It's unfortunately not made in the US, but it's made in Taiwan, which is much better than China. Oh, and for the automatic wire strippers, I would recommend the kind that go side to side because they are truly automatic meaning you don't have to adjust them for the gauge of wire. Klein actually makes a good set of those too.
Of course you can put a word in front of another word to create new, better words. Ask me, i'm german, we do it all the time. Although we have some, they'll obviously may have taken too far
Josh, come on now. You do know that the 'K' is silent in the Knipex brand name. Pronouced NyPex. At least to my knowledge. German name. NM I stand corrected. The K sound is for English speakers more often than not. German speakers pronounce like you did. 73
5:07 The saw is handy when cutting rope or twine. 🧶 But my real pocket knife doesn’t have a serrated edge because they’re impossible to sharpen. If you’re the kind of guy whose knife includes a serrated portion, then yeah the saw is useless (other than as a backup).
Just passed my general today, thanks for the content that helped inspire me to want to try HF and to pursue the upgrade.
Congratulations and thanks for watching!
Congrats from someone who just got his also
Congrats!!!
Studying for my General. Plan on testing in February. Congrats on getting yours.
conga-rats!
Another excellent video Josh. The bit at 14:06 is indeed an Electrician's tool used for the screws on common duplex receptacles. Those screws are designed to be adequately tightened by a slotted, Robertson or phillips screwdriver. But that special bit securely engages those screws for proper tightening. Klein tools are associated with electricians.
I like the bit idea. Looks less prone to mangling.
klien is killing it lately. love their new goal of integration
Passed my General last night. Thanks for the great videos
Yeah buddy welcome to the family!
Congrats!
Congratulations!
ECX bits are designed to fit a specific type of combination head screws that you see on many electrical components and terminals screws. These combination head screws can be turned with either a Phillips, slotted, or square drive screwdriver.
Great ideas, and I really like the Klein open socket set (just forwarded your link to my wife as a hint). The tool I used most often this year was my Anderson Powerpole crimper. After we moved last year, the shack was more-or-less thrown together, and this year I got my DC power cables organized. Great tool for the job.
Lots of great stuff here. I'm a sucker for these end of year "best of" videos.
I picked up a Klein screw driver similar to the one in the video. I was so impressed I picked up a set of impact flip sockets in the modbox that I use all the time at work in the garage.
Those Klein tool kits look really useful.
Honest review, “my opinion, if you don’t like it, I don’t really care.” Love it!👍
Your guess about the odd looking bit is correct. It is used by electricians. One of my favorite tools is one I made myself. Take a scrap chunk of 2x4, 3 to 6 inches long. Drill a 5/8" hole along an edge. Make it about an inch deep. Now when I want to solder up a SO-239 I just drop it into the hole, flange up. The idea is the hole should be located so that one corner of the flange is hanging out in space. When I apply the heat, the wood doesn't suck up like a metal vice would.
That Robertson bit at 14:06 is evidence of how Canadians are smarter than we are.😊 They're self centering, but don't cam out the way Philips bits do. Standard on duplex outlets, but a lot of DIYers will just use a Philips or flat blade driver. The Robertson bit is a better choice, and a square drive bit is better than Philips for those screws.
Fun fact Henry Ford liked them so much he wanted the patent they wouldn't sell it so he went with phillips
Klein has a 32 piece bit set that is a good accessory to their bit drivers. The bit holder has a hole through it so you can pull out the shaft of the driver, put it through the hole and put it back in the handle to keep them with the driver.
5:45 I’m a Knipex fanboy, but I’m not a professional electrician and don’t strip wires frequently enough to justify a $100 wire stripper. I’m totally with you on this. The Chinesium $10 one works fine for my needs too.
8:08 Yeah, Klein has been knocking it out of the park lately with their screwdrivers and Knect series hand tools lately. Especially when combined with Milwaukee M12 impact drivers.
3:37 Knipex and SOG gang represent! ❤ I keep this multitool in the small pocket of my jeans as a daily driver. (It also acts as a bit driver.)
My M12 set is right at 16 years old, the impact is still going strong, and the drill I had to replace a couple years after getting so it’s probably 13-14years. And for 3/4 of its life it was used everyday as an Electrician
The bit is a combo tip (square and flat head) for receptacles (110v socket)
Great ideas
The weird bit in the ratchet set is for the electrical screws with the combo slotted + Canadian “Thorsen” square heads.
Josh I enjoyed this video. My wish list is growing
Not sure if you follow Doc over at Last Best Tool but he's had me on the Klein tools for a while now. A note on the Knipex pliers, I think the next size up on those cobra jaws has the button lock like the wrench, so, if the additional inch isn't too much size/weight for your kit, the added functionality might make for a better purchase. I have one in my secret santa wishlist this year. Here's hoping!!
Oh yeah. Good tip. I like the button.
Klein has worked well for me, I get them when available.
This year I discovered using the serrated-portion blade for cutting paracord or dacron cord. Winning.
Looks like some Klein Tools are in order! Thanks!
Aloha Josh, I really enjoyed watching this video! I have seven tall Craftsman toolboxes for mechanics and electricians tools for almost any project except for Ford trucks, lol.
I don’t own any Klein tools at all but after watching this video, I must buy the tools in this video for the very same reasons that you have.
BTW, my wife and I will be flying into LAX at the end of next month for the TET Parade on Bolsa Avenue and the TET Festival in Garden Grove.
So I am hoping to catch you on the local repeaters while I’m there for a week and plan to bring a my FTM-200DR and my new QT80 rig that I will pick up from the HNL airport next week to use in the so called “Premium SUV” that my wife booked for us.
It looks like you have a very impressive garage in the background and for me, it would like walking through a candy store, lol. 😂
Awesome video! 🥰🤙🏻🤙🏻
Make sure you monitor 146.520! You’ll be in little Saigon, there is a chance we can hear each other. Otherwise. W6trw repeater too! Have fun! Chúc mừng năm mới
I am a huge fan of all Klein tools. I use the ModBox Mobile toolbox at work. But I wanted to mention that the Milwaukee M12 Solder iron is very handy for going portable.
Long time listener, first time caller... I swear it is downright crazy how much we seem to be following the same path with tools. Klein has a knect starter set for only $40 with everyhting but the extra bits. Also, the 11 in 1 ratcheting impact driver is interesting, and they have the 10 in 1 "plumber's" impact driver. I will try and get a podcast review done soon, it is way overdue.
That is the HVAC version of that Klein screwdriver. There is also a normal bit driver, and a stubby. Those come separately or in a combo pair. It’s on sale at Lowe’s for Christmas. That set has both hex and torx in the handles. There is also a mini precision driver set like this and a few various bit kits, etc.
It’s better to buy that combo and add the nutdriver set, which can be bought separately. Or buy all 3 drivers if you want a second full size handle.
You are, Josh! You're the best ham radio tool! :P Sorry, it was low hanging fruit and I had to grab it.
I have the Klein impact screwdriver and love it, but I'd really give a shoutout to Harbor Freight's Icon "meme tool", that thing is super compact and I've been carrying it everywhere. The flex-head mechanism on it comes in handy all the time.
I heard that thing is awesome.
Klein 11 and 1 screwdriver is awesome too.
You just reminded me to check my Powerball numbers, thanks
I really don’t have any favorite tools but I can tell you my favorite radio is a UVK5 for Ham and the gmrs is the GM 30
Klein Clamp Meter is a one-stop shop tool for ham radio and pretty much the average DIY’r 👌
The reason for the Knippex plier wrenches not having teeth, is they are a no mar solution. The Klein tool I use daily, if not multiple times daily is an 8 in 1 stubby that has 6 bits in the handle. It came with two Robertson bits that I removed (I live in the U.S.). I got a Wiha 4mm bit and trimmed the end off with a grinder and added it. I have a set of over 60 micro screwdriver bits that are the industry standard 4mm size. I then replaced the adjustable shaft with a 32766 shaft that came with a 1/4 5/16 flip socket. At its most compact the stubby is 4” long and can extend to 5” long, has 3 Phillips, 2 slotted, and the 4mm adapter in the handle. It is compatible with all my micro drivers. Its big brother is a 14-in-1 Klein (32303 that I also pulled Robertson bits from and replaced one with the 4mm Wiha driver) with a (32934) shaft and four SAE flip sockets on it (1/4 5/16, 3/8 7/16, 1/2 9/16, 5/8 3/4). You can buy the shaft with the flip sockets on it. I then bought the metric version of the shaft that has three flip sockets (7mm 8mm, 10mm 12mm, 13mm 14mm, wish there was a 9mm 11mm). All of the shafts are interchangeable. I also have the new 65500Kinect that handles 3/8 and 1/4 drive sockets, provides a screwdriver handle that is compatible, and both metric and SAE deep flip sockets and standard sockets (so I can ratchet one side while holding the other). I have everything I could need as far as fasteners go.
On the Milwaukee M12 front, strongly recommend checking out their 4-head 'Installation Drill/Driver'. Very, very handy, super flexible, light weight. If was doing a housewarming gift for a new homeowner, that'd be hands down what I'd give them.
My only gripe with it is the forward and reverse being on top. Other than that, yes, its a solid tool for sure.
Thanks for the Klein tip, as well as the Knipex reminder. Great European company with an excellent pedigree! Regarding the headlamp though, and putting on my former mountain climber hat on for a moment, I think I'd caution against recommending that one for any SOTA work that was remotely serious, as it doesn't appear to be all that durable. The tilting mount that also holds the headstrap or cord looks a little plasticky and could be a weak point. Fine for camping and as a backup though I'm sure. But any serious SOTA person that doesn't do only the drive-up summits will likely sport a Black Diamond or a Petzel, maybe Biolite. Anyway, cool, useful reviews and thanks again for all you do. Your vids definitely helped me towards my General back in May.
Ok, always amazed. I also watch Adam, he has referenced Nile Red, who has referred to Scott Manly. Watch all of you. And Randy sits on the curb.(still love him though.
Interesting definition of tool you have. No SWR or VNA listed, just small garage tools :)
All the radio technician tools I used I covered last year 😬 this year was lots of building and fixing!
I use the bajeebus out of my LTT screwdriver at work and have a lot of Klein gear. Couple notes, the Klein ratcheting screwdrivers aren't very good due to the slack and back force of the ratchet mechanism. I honestly had stopped using mine prior to the LTT being released. Klein does sell some automatic strippers for about $30 that are pretty solid. I definitely think you made the correct decision with the 12v gear. Unless you are doing harder work there just isn't a reason to step up to the 18-20v these days. I recently bought the Makita 18v oil impulse impact driver for work with a pair of the little 2Ah batteries to keep it light. That thing is seriously impressive at how quiet it is, the price is really high though.
Thanks for the feedback! The LTT has a really good ratchet drive! I’d try different power tools, but I am not a professional, so it’s pretty wasteful. The M12 has pretty much been able to do it all so for.
And I would like to say that I love your videos
Thank you!
I see Doc at Last Best Tool got you with the Klein tools too eh! 🤣 I'm a full Klein convert after seeing his videos, they are so versatile now.
Idk that I sub to him. I will check!
@@HamRadioCrashCourse Your missing out! Morgan's Maintenance is also good for tool reviews.
When you say "nothing like blowing through an IKEA build", especially for the klein tools allen bits and flip sockets, you better get the metric ones (not SAE)!
M12 are great I use them everyday for work
Hey Josh - what is the BEST Ham Radio steak? Porterhouse? Ribeye? Just kidding - your equipment reviews are really useful and are pertinent way beyond the Ham Radio realm. Thanks!
Haven't you seen the Klein light headband? I look for excuses to use mine.
For the wire stripper/cutter I like the Irwin style self-adjusting stripper. I have the Harbor Freight look-alike and for me it's been much more reliable than the T-Rex jaw ones like you showed.
The issues I have with the plier options that spread is operating spaces. I use the strippers in cars and the space can be difficult.
Let me say, you don't need to fall into the 'Tim Taylor' more power. Power equals weight. Keep the weight down to just what you need. Don't swing a 32oz. hammer when 16 will do.
Vk5cmp I need a computer with the disc holder, small enough to put my encryption back on my radio. I lost my three-quarter encryption.
Calling on all hams to track down what frequencies the drones on the east coast are being controlled by and reporting it to any authority (like local law enforcement) Since a lot of people are getting scared right now by this "unknown" invasion it seems appropriate that we as hams can potentially make an impact like in our recent hurricanes down south. All it would take is to monitor and report if you are on the east coast or any of the affected areas.... 73's and happy signal hunting
Vk5cmp I need a computer with the disc holder, small enough to put my encryption back on my radio. I lost my three-quarter encryption. Or maybe tell Professor on the cb hook it up here in a bit I meant the same place David was not too far from the vanormy tx . Have you heard from Professor?
overnight shipping from amazon. how do i get that
You really need to just pick up an 8mm and 10mm nut driver...easiest way to tackle antenna installation with the long bolts
Ham Radio is truly the Renaissance Man avocation. It overlaps with dozens of other disciplines. 🔧
One drawback of auto strippers is that they don’t work well with silicone insulated wires (it’s too stretchy).
4:35 Yeah, just carry a real pocket knife like my ProTech or your Spyderco. The knife in a multitool is really a backup.
Do you have a store or affiliate link?
Yes, link in the video description.
Where do I get those UGM mini markers that glow in the dark? I’ve been looking for something like that.
Countycomm.
@ found it about 30 minutes ago….
Dang it Josh, you’re costing me money again!!
That's an electrician bit ecx1 or ecx2
Wiha case is part number 91472
Good recommendations.
The Klein screwdriver will go on my short list. It's unfortunately not made in the US, but it's made in Taiwan, which is much better than China.
Oh, and for the automatic wire strippers, I would recommend the kind that go side to side because they are truly automatic meaning you don't have to adjust them for the gauge of wire. Klein actually makes a good set of those too.
He said, tool!! Hehe..
Next video: Best ham radio diapers for longer POTA and SOTA😂
New Ham thanks to your videos KJ5JDO
👍👍👍👍👍
I consider myself a HAM radio tool
12v? Bah. Lightweight. 😉 I have a couple Dewalt 60V tools...for when I need to renew my man card 😂
Enjoy your back problems lugging that around a tower climb. They are cool though!
Of course you can put a word in front of another word to create new, better words. Ask me, i'm german, we do it all the time. Although we have some, they'll obviously may have taken too far
Josh, come on now. You do know that the 'K' is silent in the Knipex brand name. Pronouced NyPex. At least to my knowledge. German name. NM I stand corrected. The K sound is for English speakers more often than not. German speakers pronounce like you did. 73
5:07 The saw is handy when cutting rope or twine. 🧶 But my real pocket knife doesn’t have a serrated edge because they’re impossible to sharpen. If you’re the kind of guy whose knife includes a serrated portion, then yeah the saw is useless (other than as a backup).