Tag: Roto-Split

Dear Mr. Electrician:  What tool reviews have you written for products that you have used? Answer:  Tool reviews of my own tools are down below.  NOTE: Some text links below go to applicable products on Amazon.  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There are a number of tools I have grown to love working with because work just goes so much better with the proper tools.  Having the right tool for the job increases productivity and also helps ensure that the work is getting done correctly.  My tool reviews are based on my actual use of the tools as part of my work as an electrician. One thing I can say with certainty is that not everything is manufactured to the same standards, and identical services from different companies don't always match up.  Now more than ever it is important to shop around to find the best deal or product for you and your needs.  Read many tool reviews. One of my favorite tools from my young electrician days that I still use occasionally is my Bright Star 1618-CT continuity testing flashlight(s).  See the photo at the top of this post.  They are very handy for checking fuses and incandescent or halogen light bulbs.  They are also good for identifying wires on dead circuits or wires that are shorted together. The flashlight has a jack in the back screw cap that a set of alligator leads can plug into.  After the leads are inserted in, the flashlight will only light when the two alligator clips are connected together. I saw in a store LED upgrade kits for these flashlights so I bought one.  The original PR type incandescent bulb was not that bright. These flashlight continuity testers are no longer made by the original manufacturer, but there are plenty of other types of testers available. I have always been a tool nut and when I was much younger would buy tools because I liked them and hoped to be able to use them one day.  Now I have many tools in my collection that I have never or hardly ever used. My current advice to myself is to wait until I actually need the tool before buying it unless a bargain buying opportunity comes along that is too good to pass.  My tool reviews are based on my own experiences with using them while working as an electrician. TOOL REVIEWS My three Ideal voltage testers have been with me a long time.  The model on the right also has a built-in continuity tester. I have an assortment of small pry bars that come in handy during remodeling jobs. Another handy tool to have is a thread restoring file.  Good for when you have to cut some screws or bolts. I love my Klein Lineman Pliers with the built-in crimper. If you want to give a gift to an electrician, this would be a good one.  A Burndy Wire-Mike is good for determining wire and conduit sizes. I bought the protractor level with a magnetic base initially for bending conduit. I have used BX...