tool list

[master_apprentice]

Hey y'all

Since I'm heading out west in the next few months I'm just looking to get a few ideas for tools. I already have started getting some together. Obviously a tape measure, torpedo level, scribe, regular 24'' level etc etc . But I'm looking for tools you guys would find most valuable to remove and make the job a bit easier to get done. I'm open to any ideas and am willing to get a bigger tool box. So please feel free to enlighten me and my fellow apprentices and please give us a tool list.

[diamondback]

It would help to know what you are going to be doing for work. A welders list will be different than a pipe fitter which is different from a boiler maker. Roughly they are close but each has their own tried and true tools.

[Rig Welder]

I agree that a career choice would be helpfull with suggesting a tool list. However, a tapemeasure with magnets in the end hook comes in real handy when taking measurements off structure when you are up in a lift that is rocking in the wind. A torpedo level with rare earth magnets will also be a valuable tool. Maybe check out tricktools.com.

[MAC702]

Just don't make them cheap tools. Get quality. If you want respect on most crews, get American, too, though there does tend to be exceptions for fine German tools, like Knipex.

The electrical union publishes a tool list that their apprentices and journeyman must provide, all else being provided by contractor. Perhaps there is a trade union in the field you wish to pursue that could give you a similar list to give you an idea of what would be especially helpful.

[bjfab]

Tools

I agree with Mac in buying good quality tools above all else. A low quality tool is generally low priced for a reason. If you do not like it in the store it will not improve with age. I have a couple of more suggestions that you might find useful if you are doing structural type of work.

1. chalk line
2. combination or tri-square
3. prybar
4. 2 lb. hammer

Watch and see what others are using on the job and what tools work and purchase as needed

Byron

[Bert]

Mac is right, check out the union to see if they have a list handy.
My toolbag when I was in the Ironworker's Union:
1) speedsquare
2) crecent wrench with the bullpin at the end (I had 2 crecent brands break on me, go for PROTO)
3) 4 R-11'S (C-clamp vice-grips)
4) Boch 41/2" grinder
5) Makita 3/8" Drill
6) set of nut drivers
7) Soapstone
8) 10' Welding lead/stinger
9) Set of screwdrivers
10) Chalkline
11) tapemeasure
12) Welding Helmet
13) 2' level
14) 3 different pliers
15) 3lb sledge and claw hammer
16) etc....(I had to carry 2 buckets to work everyday....

Don't buy TOO many things until you get to work. Look in your bosses bag or bucket to see what he has...ask questions, then buy what he says you will need...at least the basics....Don't be like OTHER new guys, expect to use the bosses or partners tools....you will have much more respect if they see you buying your own tools quickly....MINIMUM!!!!!! It's expected that you buy at least 1 tool a week (as you get paid), but don't buy a $7.00 tool and expect THAT to fly!!!!!!!!! Best to save up your money, Spend at LEAST $200
the first time you talk to your boss......
my .02
bert

[FusionKing]

HMMmm... $200 hawaiian money?? What's that over here... $125??

[bretsk2500]

god... tools, general ironwork for a commercial general contractor:

Welding hood
Welding gloves
leather cape sleeve and bib
ear plugs
round soapstone and holder
slag hammer
wire brush
2 4.5" grinders
1 7" grinder
7 1/4" circular saw
1/2" cordless drill
1/4" impact driver
32oz ball peen hammer
20 oz straight claw hammer
61oz slug hammer
set of spud wrenches in 3/4", 7/8, 1 1/16", 1 1/4", 1 7/16", 1 5/8", 1 13/16"
1/4" taper pin,
2- 3/8" taper pin
2- klien bull pins
Klien adjustable spud wrench
tape measure
speed square
combo square
framing square
chalk line
screwdrivers
complete socket set (1/4", 3/8", 1/2" and 3/4" drives... 3/16"-2")
complete set of combination wrenches
5 padded C- vise grips
5 "duckbill" vise grips
2 "regular" vise grips
flat bar
12" and 24" wrecking bar...

That's the stuff I use the most... probably about 1/3 of the tools I keep in my job trailer...

[aametalmaster]

Don't forget tweezers. When working with metal you always get splinters...Bob

[davedarragh]

Journeyman's Tools

Hey guys, you forgot the most important items: An Igloo lunch box and a Stainless Steel Thermos!

[master_apprentice]

one tool a week, I have a problem of walking in and buying more then I need. I have tools that are broken after one time use. I may wait til I get out there and buy good brand tools. Oh and by the way I'm looking general fabrication shops or repair shops.

[Bert]

HMMmm... $200 hawaiian money?? What's that over here... $125??

Gee...Haven't been here for awhile, huh??? I think it's more like $75!!!!!
(they say it's "shipping cost")
What Bob said...TWEEZERS!!!....

and the first thing that bretsk2500 said: GOD!!! Helps you deal with those wonderul co-workers/Journeymen!!!!!

[cope]

Hey guys, you forgot the most important items: An Igloo lunch box and a Stainless Steel Thermos!

Dave, he didn't ask what the foreman needed.

[davedarragh]

Foreman's Tools

Cope: Your right, must have been something in the dressing, lost it for a moment! LOL

Dave

[bretsk2500]

Hey guys, you forgot the most important items: An Igloo lunch box and a Stainless Steel Thermos!

My lunchbox is a coleman :P you can't use an igloo one for a seat....