Electrician Gear

  • Klein Tools 80101 Kit: My Honest Field Review

    BySteve

    I’ve been running HVAC service calls for over a decade, and the Klein 80101 kit has earned a permanent spot in my van. This isn’t some fluff review based on unboxing videos-I’ve actually used this thing in crawlspaces, attics, and basement mechanical rooms where conditions aren’t exactly ideal.

    What sold me? The circuit breaker finder actually works reliably, even in older panels where half the breakers aren’t labeled. The GFCI tester catches wiring issues before they become callbacks, and the multimeter handles the basics without unnecessary features that just jack up the price. Klein built this for working techs, not weekend warriors.

    Is it perfect? No. But after six months of daily use, nothing’s broken, and that’s saying something in this trade. If you need reliable diagnostics without the premium price tag, keep reading.

  • My Take on the Klein Tools Electrician’s Knife

    BySteve

    I’ve been carrying the Klein Tools Electrician’s Pocket Knife for six months now, and it’s become one of those tools I actually notice when I forget it. The stainless steel blade holds an edge better than I expected—I’ve stripped countless Romex jackets and trimmed wire insulation without needing to sharpen it yet. What really sold me is the deep-carry clip. It sits low in my pocket and doesn’t snag on everything like my old knife did when I’m crawling through tight attic spaces or squeezing behind condensers. The lanyard hole is a nice touch for those rooftop jobs where dropping a tool means a long walk down. It’s not fancy, but Klein knows what electricians and HVAC techs actually need. Solid everyday carry that just works.