Things like voltmeters, fish tape, and flashlights can come in handy when you’re doing an at-home project. As with any tool purchase, you’ll get longer life and better performance from higher-quality tools. Better electrical hand tools, such as wire cutters and linesman pliers, have insulated handles to help guard against shock. A torpedo level should be part of every homeowner’s standard toolkit; it will have plenty of uses beyond electrical work. Screwdrivers with insulating rubber jackets covering the handles are designed for better safety when doing electrical work. Straight-blade screwdrivers are also available with insulated handles for better safety when doing electrical work. This is a tool every DIYer needs in the toolbox. It will be used for virtually every home electrical repair project. Along with a voltage tester, this is perhaps the most important specialty electrical tool you can own. It makes sense to invest in a good set of wire strippers, as it will serve many functions. Casual DIYers may be able to get by without this tool, but anyone who does regular electrical work will want to own a pair of linesman pliers. This is a second-tier specialty tool: Casual DIYers may not need it, but those who do regular electrical work will find it very useful. This is a tool used when making wiring improvements, such as adding or extending circuits. Casual DIYers who are simply making electrical repairs or replacements rarely need a fish tape, but it is a good tool for more advanced DIYers to own. This specialty tool is used mostly by advanced DIYers and professional electricians. Casual DIYers may not need to own this tool, but those who do a lot of electrical work on appliances and electronics may find it essential. This specialty tool is not needed by every DIYer, since some of the key functions can be performed by other tools you already have. But if you routinely work on appliances, it can be a useful tool to own.
