What Are the Top 10 Tools Every Electrical Contractor Should Have in Their Toolbox?

Last updated: August 8, 2025

TL;DR: Multimeter • Wire strippers • Pliers • Insulated screwdrivers and nut drivers • Fish tape • Tape measure • Labeling machine • Flashlight or headlamp • Voltage tester • PPE

1) Digital Multimeter (DMM)

Your daily diagnostic tool for verification, troubleshooting, and commissioning. Choose a meter with the right measurement category for the environment—see the IEC 61010 CAT II/III/IV overview from Fluke—plus fused current inputs, true-RMS, LoZ for ghost voltage, continuity beeper, min/max, and a backlit display. Before you trust any reading, do a live–dead–live check on a known source. Stock workhorse digital multimeters and spare test leads and accessories. (Fluke)

2) Wire Strippers

Nick-free stripping is non-negotiable if you want terminations that pass inspection and hold up under load. Carry a dedicated stripper that matches the AWG ranges you install, plus an NM jacket tool and an MC cutter for clean prep. Retire any tool that starts chewing copper. Load up from wire strippers and cable slitters and keep MC cable cutters in the bag. (For terminations, NEC 110.14 expects connections without damaging the conductor.)

3) Pliers (The Everyday Trio)

A tight-hinge lineman’s, sharp diagonal cutters, and precise long-nose pliers cover most field tasks: twisting splices, trimming ties, pulling fish tape, and shaping conductors without marring lugs. Look for induction-hardened cutting edges and grips that don’t slip with gloves. Build your kit from pliers and cutting pliers you trust.

4) Insulated Screwdrivers and Nut Drivers

Inside gear or anywhere shock exposure is possible, use tools tested and marked 1000 V to the IEC/EN 60900 insulated-tool standard. Toss any driver with damaged insulation and replace immediately. Kit up with insulated screwdrivers and insulated nut drivers so the right tool is always on hand. (boddingtons-electrical.com)

5) Fish Tape

For pulls through existing raceway, choose steel when you need stiffness for long, straight runs, and fiberglass or other non-conductive materials when working near energized conductors or crowded conduit. A good case and handle reduce payout effort and binding, saving hands and time on repetitive pulls. See fish tapes and wire-pulling accessories.

6) Tape Measure

Layout quality is measurement quality. A durable tape with strong standout, a positive hook, and high-contrast markings keeps conduit runs straight, supports accurate MC cuts, and speeds device layout. Many crews keep a 16–25 ft tape for trim work plus a 30 ft for site layout. Shop measuring and layout tools.

7) Labeling Machine

Label panel directories, disconnects, control circuits, terminations, and sources so service calls go faster and inspectors find what they need. Use durable tapes (heat/oil/UV resistant) and follow NEC identification rules where they apply. Keep label printers and supplies and industrial label tapes in the gang box. (See NEC 408.4(A) circuit directories and NEC 110.22(A) disconnect identification for what inspectors look for.) (Electrical License Renewal)

8) Flashlight or Headlamp

Attics, crawlspaces, and mechanical rooms are where accuracy goes to die if you’re working in the dark. A compact headlamp keeps hands free for terminations; a high-output flashlight reaches the back of gear and long runs. Rechargeable batteries save money on service trucks. Stock flashlights and portable lighting.

9) Voltage Tester

A two-pole tester gives a fast presence/absence answer. For absence-of-voltage before you touch conductors, follow the NFPA 70E absence-of-voltage procedure and verify your tester on a known source before and after (the “live-dead-live” method). Note that non-contact pens are not permitted for absence-of-voltage on ≤1000 V systems. Start with voltage testers and keep them in calibration. (IAEI Magazine, Electrical License Renewal)

10) PPE

Every task starts with hazard assessment and the right protective gear. For electrical work that can expose you to shock or arc flash, select and use PPE per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.335 and your company’s electrical safety program; NFPA 70E adds the details on arc-rated clothing, shock/arc boundaries, and establishing an electrically safe work condition. Outfit crews from PPE. (OSHA)

Honorable Mentions

• Circuit finder / tracer: Quickly narrow down breakers and trace runs with circuit tracing and verifying tools.

• Crimp tools: Reliable terminations start with the right dies—see crimpers and benders.

• Utility knife: Still essential for sheath and insulation work—utility knives.

• Torpedo level: Keep racks and conduit straight—box, I-beam, and torpedo levels.

• Electrical tape: Proper jacketing and ID—electrical tapes.

Compliance quick hits

• Label circuit directories and sources per NEC 408.4(A). (Electrical License Renewal)

• Identify disconnects clearly; in most non-dwelling cases, include the source and location per NEC 110.22(A). (Electrical License Renewal)

• Verify de-energized with an adequately rated contact instrument using NFPA 70E’s live–dead–live method. (IAEI Magazine)

• Use IEC/EN 60900-rated insulated tools where shock/arc hazards exist; pull damaged tools from service. (boddingtons-electrical.com)

Disclaimer: This guide references NEC 2023 and NFPA 70E (2024). Local adoption varies. Always verify with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and follow manufacturer instructions.

Need help kitting out a crew?

Browse testing and measuring, hand tools, and PPE. We can quote by truck or by project.

About Revco Lighting & Electrical Supply

Since 1978, Revco Lighting & Electrical Supply has been helping professionals bring their projects to light—literally. As a go-to source for lighting and electrical products across Long Island, NY and nearby areas, we specialize in supporting contractors, builders, and industry experts with practical solutions and dependable service. Whether it’s a complex commercial build or a simple residential upgrade, we’re here to make sure you have what you need, when you need it.