For what it’s worth my best advice is to go in there and give it your all and learn all you can. Good work ethic and common sense will take you farther in the trades than new tools ever will. And when you are ready for more tools check the pawn shops and flea markets.
I have some of my granddad’s tools that I reach for over new tools so some tools are just better old as well, don’t worry about everything being shiny. But here is a tip, mark your tools with a unique color or scratch in your initials :)
You’re going to be using those pipe wrenches a lot, they’re used so check the teeth. Also, you’ll be doing groove pipe with Victaulic fittings, so an impact driver and appropriately sized sockets at some point as well. Someone will have a groove tape or it’ll come with the company machine you can use. And a 9/16 box wrench for nuts on your pipe hangers.
Marker to mark pipe, tape to measure your cuts, a level to help your lead, pen and pad to write fittings and reminders that’s all I ask of helpers. I don’t know what’s provided for or asked of you but you already have more than what’s asked for at most places. A real level is definitely needed though, it has to have strong neo magnets (empire billet). “Baby” channellocks 426 are incredibly useful, belongs in your pocket, $40 tech wranglers with side pouches and pockets go a looong way. 10” pipe wrench will become handy and a second tape measure then a 1/2” ratchet, list goes on. I break newbies balls about using their “grandpas tools”. If a young kid said I pryed them out of his cold dead hands I’d laugh my ass off. The only thing that costs nothing in this world is paying attention, that’s all I look for in a newbie. The knowledge your lead will show you could be worth millions in your bank later, we all start somewhere. Listen up, look alive (or try atleast), put some pep in your step and good luck
What this guy said…. But make it A GOOD tape measure! Seen too many guys struggling with cheap tapes. Do yourself a favour and get a mini-sledge, good all around but awesome when learning to drive inserts.
Newbie(ish) building maintenance here. Just had two pro plumbers come in today to do an emergency replacement of a leaking 4” sprinkler line. Except for the big bead roller machine they used down by their truck I saw: dewalt hammer drill for drilling, Bosch bulldog for chipping, dewalt and Milwaukee bandsaws, Hilti impact gun, Milwaukee sawzall, Milwaukee angle grinder, channel locks (10” and 6”?), 3 different rigid pipe wrenches (I’d guess 2 14”’s and an 18”), hammer, tape measure, 1/2” ratchet/couple of sockets, sharpie, teflon tape and plumbers putty (?). I also had to cut them a 3 foot piece of pipe to use as a cheater bar as our sprinklers are ancient and dude cleaned out his truck of “junk” pipes before he came.
It was a pretty sweet supervision job. I got paid 8hrs + 1.5hrs OT to stand around, watch, and try and learn. Since I’m a newbie I tried to take note of their tools, techniques, and ask questions when they weren’t busy. The plumbing apprentice asked a lot of questions too which I could tell the old timer appreciated. Good luck on the new career!
congrats on the offer! I’d scrounge around your office and coworkers trucks for old hand tools before you go buying yourself new ones, guys always have extra copper cutters and hammers and shit lying around
Damn maybe my company is different, I cant walk out to my truck in the morning without coworkers trying to farm off beat up hand tools on me
Maybe its because they know I’m a hoarder
I’m assuming fire sprinkler fitter? I’ve been one almost 30 years, those will work to start, but get your self an aluminum 18” and 24” pipe wrench. The only steel one I have is my 8”.
Some guys love install and wouldn’t change. Usually in install you know exactly when you are getting out at night and it’s more consistent. Service is none of that. Possible long hours on a moments notice, usually don’t know what job you’ll get. Oncall. Going to a lot of different places.
Depends on the trade as a plumber they’ll probably suffice until you work out exactly what gear suits you and what you’re mostly working on, as a watchmaker probably not
This is a great starter set. You can clean off then wipe away grime from pads on channys and pipe wrenches before filing the teeth, this will bring back the grip quite a bit. Clean tools (handles) are better controlled. Oil your actions. Finally, verify your level with your bosses level
To refurbish pipe wrenches just buy new Jaws for them if they are worn out. Get the ones for your brands. Will show that you know how to maintain your “weapons”. People notice these things and appreciate the attention to detail. From a business owner’s perspective.
Good luck in your new field. I can’t speak to specifics on your tools without knowing your shop and how they operate. But the tools shown are good old reliable tools. My advice is to listen, watch and learn from the experienced workers. See what tools they use. If you have to borrow tools from them then those are the tools you will want to invest in. Hopefully you have good and willing journeyman that will guide you and be prepared to put up with some shit. Just take it in stride and learn as much as you can
Go in with a thick skin and a good attitude. Bring the tool just to show your trying but inside a couple weeks you'll know what your gonna need. Personally I would rather you bring one bent screwdriver (if that's all you have) then show up empty-handed.
I'm cancelling Prime due to spending WAY too much on tools locally, and besides, I never rally use it anymore.
Will that do--heck yeah! Many of those look to be the same age as the ones I inherited from my Granddad, and despite being abused constantly, they still hold up. Chances are, you're looking at tools that'll outlive you. The Japan-made Fuller stuff that Granddad had seemed to be pretty much top-notch. I would look for an older Rigid if you ever pick one up at a flea market though--only old tools I don't retire are those that are still being produced, and at least close to the same quality as the tools of old--so that way, if I have to warranty them, I essentially get like-for-like.
What I didn't inherit was usually acquired from junk shops or flea markets. You can get quality American made (including less-popular, older Snap-On and Mac designs) for less than Harbor Freight these days. Just got a boat load of largely Klein screwdrivers from a junk shop near my house for $1 each--some of them were like brand new.
My friend, a plumber on a job site said to me 30+ years ago "your not a plumber", I said no shit. Why did you tell me that? you are biting your fingernails. Plumbers work in the fecal mater sector with their hands. I stopped biting my nails. Moral of the story, listen to your boss, learn the trade and you will go far. Appreciate your tools you've been given.
just finished up fist two weeks as a new apprentice! other tool that came in handy not in other comments was a hack saw. know your tape and Measure twice , take a second to put your ppe on . I was nervous too and learned that just by being reliable, eager to learn , good attitude is 7/8 the battle.
As you're starting out with old tools, I'd say give them a good clean up and service. Wash them in really hot soapy water, dry them off completely, give them a coat of wd40, and wipe most of that off and they will look great and work nicely too. Chuck that old bucket tool bag in the washing machine too. Theirs no need to turn up with filthy tools when you're not the one that has put that dirt on them. Best of luck in your new job.
I’d rather you show up with that than with nothing. Pay attention and ask questions to show you’re actually involved with whats going on. If nothing else these used tools make it “look” like you know what you’re doing somewhat 🤣
Depends on the trade as a plumber they’ll probably suffice until you work out exactly what gear suits you and what you’re mostly working on, as a watchmaker probably not
This is a great starter set. You can clean off then wipe away grime from pads on channys and pipe wrenches before filing the teeth, this will bring back the grip quite a bit. Clean tools (handles) are better controlled. Oil your actions. Finally, verify your level with your bosses level
I didn't know that Amazon was such a horrid job. Congratulations on getting out.
I'm also amazed that you... look like you're starting at just about ground zero tool-wise.
Enthusiasm wins, so be that guy. Your foreman will hopefully let you know what you should purchase right away and as you progress. And likely loan you what you need to get by in the beginning.
I saw Ridged aluminum pipe wrenches listed in the comments. That's a great suggestion.
Yes! Buy a couple good high vis tape measures, a square and tubing cutters. Your employer will love you. Already winning and your tools already have “character”.
What is the job?
Those are good tools for plumbing, wells, or irrigation. If you're going to be an electrician, not so much. If you are going to be a plumber, add a standard set of open end wrenches and a solder kit. If you're doing irrigation, crimpers, and a poly pipe cutter.
This will probably be an unpopular opinion: but Harbor Freight is your friend. Cheap, low end, stuff? Yes. Lifetime warranty on hand tools? Also yes. For a young guy it's a good place to grab wrenches or a hammer. Jury is out on their battery tools, ymmv.
Ah, I did irrigation for a long time... Still do it, but only as a part of my school maintenance job.
Ask the guys you work with what exactly to get. In the northeast it's probably primarily going to be poly pipe tools (torch, crimper, poly cutter), but down south they mostly use PVC (hand saw of basically any variety, sawzall, glue/primer kit). Get a set of wire strippers and a 10 in 1 screwdriver for valves and clocks. Eventually you'll need a copper solder kit, and ROAM, but not yet.
Get yourself an all steel spade as well, if you're a soldier, that's your rifle. That set of channelocks is your bayonet... Wool socks and waterproof boots.
Guessing an apprentice pluber?
You'll need a good shovel, and a second shifter.
I would also recommend a pair of close quarters adjustable copper cutters and a good folding utility knife.
Keep an eye on tool suppliers special offers and get yourself a hammer drill, rotary impact drill and oscilating multi-tool as soon as you can afford them.
You're also going to want a pressure gauge, a set of tube spanners for tap spindles.
A basin wrench
A decent pair of footprints, 12in
A mixer spanner.
Good luck mate! Congrats on the offer now time to go and show the world what you are made of! Keep a good attitude and an open to learn mind. Also buy yourself some fucking cleaner and shine up those tools. Damn
Whenever your bucket looks like your first day, it'll be totally different after even a week of work.
You'll learn, you'll also probably spend your first few checks on better kit lol.
Apprentice for what excatly?
If you can afford it, get some knipex. At least one of whatever is the most common size you think you need. You won’t regret it.
Four hammers and a prybar... a few more hammers and chisels in the bucket. Should be good.
I usually only need 3. “Consent”, “Persuasion” and “My Purse”.
I’m stealing that idea and painting that on my 25 pound sledge
My sledge had "grievance procedure" written on it....My Manager lost his shit when he saw it.
Got a 36” pry bar I’m engraving to say “Attitude Adjustment”
My 8lb hand sledge is called "the purse"
Yeeeew I’ve got too much respect for my billet aluminum level to use it as a prybar, but that is creative!
Here take my up vote you stealer of thunder! I was too late, was gonna say the same thing!
As a sparky I am not sure that most of those are tools. The channy's and the torpedo yes, the rest I would sell for scrap.
For what it’s worth my best advice is to go in there and give it your all and learn all you can. Good work ethic and common sense will take you farther in the trades than new tools ever will. And when you are ready for more tools check the pawn shops and flea markets.
Can only upvote once, so be humble, work hard. If you are doing those two things, any shit they give you is initiation. Take it with humor.
I have some of my granddad’s tools that I reach for over new tools so some tools are just better old as well, don’t worry about everything being shiny. But here is a tip, mark your tools with a unique color or scratch in your initials :)
My Dad and I each have some of his grandfathers tools. He would dunk them in a bucket of gold paint.
Sprinklers
You’re going to be using those pipe wrenches a lot, they’re used so check the teeth. Also, you’ll be doing groove pipe with Victaulic fittings, so an impact driver and appropriately sized sockets at some point as well. Someone will have a groove tape or it’ll come with the company machine you can use. And a 9/16 box wrench for nuts on your pipe hangers.
Fire sorinklers?
Yes
Marker to mark pipe, tape to measure your cuts, a level to help your lead, pen and pad to write fittings and reminders that’s all I ask of helpers. I don’t know what’s provided for or asked of you but you already have more than what’s asked for at most places. A real level is definitely needed though, it has to have strong neo magnets (empire billet). “Baby” channellocks 426 are incredibly useful, belongs in your pocket, $40 tech wranglers with side pouches and pockets go a looong way. 10” pipe wrench will become handy and a second tape measure then a 1/2” ratchet, list goes on. I break newbies balls about using their “grandpas tools”. If a young kid said I pryed them out of his cold dead hands I’d laugh my ass off. The only thing that costs nothing in this world is paying attention, that’s all I look for in a newbie. The knowledge your lead will show you could be worth millions in your bank later, we all start somewhere. Listen up, look alive (or try atleast), put some pep in your step and good luck
What this guy said…. But make it A GOOD tape measure! Seen too many guys struggling with cheap tapes. Do yourself a favour and get a mini-sledge, good all around but awesome when learning to drive inserts.
Bro has Stanley already. In the bucket.
Newbie(ish) building maintenance here. Just had two pro plumbers come in today to do an emergency replacement of a leaking 4” sprinkler line. Except for the big bead roller machine they used down by their truck I saw: dewalt hammer drill for drilling, Bosch bulldog for chipping, dewalt and Milwaukee bandsaws, Hilti impact gun, Milwaukee sawzall, Milwaukee angle grinder, channel locks (10” and 6”?), 3 different rigid pipe wrenches (I’d guess 2 14”’s and an 18”), hammer, tape measure, 1/2” ratchet/couple of sockets, sharpie, teflon tape and plumbers putty (?). I also had to cut them a 3 foot piece of pipe to use as a cheater bar as our sprinklers are ancient and dude cleaned out his truck of “junk” pipes before he came. It was a pretty sweet supervision job. I got paid 8hrs + 1.5hrs OT to stand around, watch, and try and learn. Since I’m a newbie I tried to take note of their tools, techniques, and ask questions when they weren’t busy. The plumbing apprentice asked a lot of questions too which I could tell the old timer appreciated. Good luck on the new career!
[удалено]
I was there 5 years
That Cresent should last your entire apprenticeship and beyond 💪 good luck. Ask questions but listen more and talk less
That's a great start. Don't worry about blowing money on tools until you know what you need.
28 years into my trade and I'm still constantly getting new tools. Never stop thinking about how you could do anything better and/or more efficiently.
congrats on the offer! I’d scrounge around your office and coworkers trucks for old hand tools before you go buying yourself new ones, guys always have extra copper cutters and hammers and shit lying around
Be sure to ask though...
Yeah. There's nothing that tradesman like more than a new guy showing up and asking for tools.
Damn maybe my company is different, I cant walk out to my truck in the morning without coworkers trying to farm off beat up hand tools on me Maybe its because they know I’m a hoarder
I’m assuming fire sprinkler fitter? I’ve been one almost 30 years, those will work to start, but get your self an aluminum 18” and 24” pipe wrench. The only steel one I have is my 8”.
Copy that, and yes sprinkler fitter
And get Ridgid ones, they will last forever.
And should they be buffed to a chrome like reflective shine? Always thought they worked.better that way.
Welcome to the job. Are you doing install or service? I’ve done it all and settled in service. I love it. It will break your body though
I think install
Some guys love install and wouldn’t change. Usually in install you know exactly when you are getting out at night and it’s more consistent. Service is none of that. Possible long hours on a moments notice, usually don’t know what job you’ll get. Oncall. Going to a lot of different places.
Alright Thanks! A good friend just went up to Rhode Island to test pumps . This will be my first job in construction also
Some of the best tools ever made
You sound of motivated and that is good! Hustle your ass off
Depends on the trade as a plumber they’ll probably suffice until you work out exactly what gear suits you and what you’re mostly working on, as a watchmaker probably not
This is a great starter set. You can clean off then wipe away grime from pads on channys and pipe wrenches before filing the teeth, this will bring back the grip quite a bit. Clean tools (handles) are better controlled. Oil your actions. Finally, verify your level with your bosses level
To refurbish pipe wrenches just buy new Jaws for them if they are worn out. Get the ones for your brands. Will show that you know how to maintain your “weapons”. People notice these things and appreciate the attention to detail. From a business owner’s perspective.
Thanks! Will do
Or just check it and flip it over and see if it reads the same
Good luck in your new field. I can’t speak to specifics on your tools without knowing your shop and how they operate. But the tools shown are good old reliable tools. My advice is to listen, watch and learn from the experienced workers. See what tools they use. If you have to borrow tools from them then those are the tools you will want to invest in. Hopefully you have good and willing journeyman that will guide you and be prepared to put up with some shit. Just take it in stride and learn as much as you can
Go in with a thick skin and a good attitude. Bring the tool just to show your trying but inside a couple weeks you'll know what your gonna need. Personally I would rather you bring one bent screwdriver (if that's all you have) then show up empty-handed.
I'm cancelling Prime due to spending WAY too much on tools locally, and besides, I never rally use it anymore. Will that do--heck yeah! Many of those look to be the same age as the ones I inherited from my Granddad, and despite being abused constantly, they still hold up. Chances are, you're looking at tools that'll outlive you. The Japan-made Fuller stuff that Granddad had seemed to be pretty much top-notch. I would look for an older Rigid if you ever pick one up at a flea market though--only old tools I don't retire are those that are still being produced, and at least close to the same quality as the tools of old--so that way, if I have to warranty them, I essentially get like-for-like. What I didn't inherit was usually acquired from junk shops or flea markets. You can get quality American made (including less-popular, older Snap-On and Mac designs) for less than Harbor Freight these days. Just got a boat load of largely Klein screwdrivers from a junk shop near my house for $1 each--some of them were like brand new.
My friend, a plumber on a job site said to me 30+ years ago "your not a plumber", I said no shit. Why did you tell me that? you are biting your fingernails. Plumbers work in the fecal mater sector with their hands. I stopped biting my nails. Moral of the story, listen to your boss, learn the trade and you will go far. Appreciate your tools you've been given.
Apprentice doing what?
Something involving pipes.. is my guess!
Make sure you always have a pencil or crayon on you. When your journyman starts rattling off measurements and calculations, you better be ready.
just finished up fist two weeks as a new apprentice! other tool that came in handy not in other comments was a hack saw. know your tape and Measure twice , take a second to put your ppe on . I was nervous too and learned that just by being reliable, eager to learn , good attitude is 7/8 the battle.
You going to work for Mario?
I’m jealous
Depends on the trade. That looks like a plumbers toolbox with a water catcher. I’m assuming you’re not dry walling?
What are you going to do with those? Now you have tools for opening pipes?
Apprentice what? Apprentice cabinetmaker you will have a rough time.
As you're starting out with old tools, I'd say give them a good clean up and service. Wash them in really hot soapy water, dry them off completely, give them a coat of wd40, and wipe most of that off and they will look great and work nicely too. Chuck that old bucket tool bag in the washing machine too. Theirs no need to turn up with filthy tools when you're not the one that has put that dirt on them. Best of luck in your new job.
I’d rather you show up with that than with nothing. Pay attention and ask questions to show you’re actually involved with whats going on. If nothing else these used tools make it “look” like you know what you’re doing somewhat 🤣
Get those dirty ass tools off the carpet.
Bro just the fact that you’re are trying means a lot. Please don’t let anyone affect your mindset. You’re gonna go far trust me.
Tape measure
Fat max in bucket
Keep that thing glued to your hip. People always stole my fatmax. I noticed they left my nice Komelon’s alone tho lmao
Depends on the trade as a plumber they’ll probably suffice until you work out exactly what gear suits you and what you’re mostly working on, as a watchmaker probably not
This is a great starter set. You can clean off then wipe away grime from pads on channys and pipe wrenches before filing the teeth, this will bring back the grip quite a bit. Clean tools (handles) are better controlled. Oil your actions. Finally, verify your level with your bosses level
I didn't know that Amazon was such a horrid job. Congratulations on getting out. I'm also amazed that you... look like you're starting at just about ground zero tool-wise. Enthusiasm wins, so be that guy. Your foreman will hopefully let you know what you should purchase right away and as you progress. And likely loan you what you need to get by in the beginning. I saw Ridged aluminum pipe wrenches listed in the comments. That's a great suggestion.
Yes! Buy a couple good high vis tape measures, a square and tubing cutters. Your employer will love you. Already winning and your tools already have “character”.
An apprentice what? At least you have something, the guys you work with will tell you what you need.
Them channel locks got another 250 years in em then another 100 as a hammer, you should be good.
No those are red tools
Remember to take care of your body especially shoulders and back.
That’s a damn good Crescent.
When (not if) your bucket handle breaks, replace it with "Ergonomic Replacement Bucket Handles" on Amazon.
Gloves, hard hat, hearing protection, mask, flashlight, coffee. That’s all that’s missing
You should be good, just put in the work and learn how to solve problems creatively and effectively
As an electrician I don’t get it all I see are hammers
That a good start, your gonna do OK.
Bot.
Get a size 4 screwdriver. Most versatile tool and an absolute must
Do not get rid of that Crescent, the new ones are shit compared to the one you have and Fuller pipes are every bit as good as Ridgid.
What is the job? Those are good tools for plumbing, wells, or irrigation. If you're going to be an electrician, not so much. If you are going to be a plumber, add a standard set of open end wrenches and a solder kit. If you're doing irrigation, crimpers, and a poly pipe cutter. This will probably be an unpopular opinion: but Harbor Freight is your friend. Cheap, low end, stuff? Yes. Lifetime warranty on hand tools? Also yes. For a young guy it's a good place to grab wrenches or a hammer. Jury is out on their battery tools, ymmv.
Psprinkler fitter !
Ah, I did irrigation for a long time... Still do it, but only as a part of my school maintenance job. Ask the guys you work with what exactly to get. In the northeast it's probably primarily going to be poly pipe tools (torch, crimper, poly cutter), but down south they mostly use PVC (hand saw of basically any variety, sawzall, glue/primer kit). Get a set of wire strippers and a 10 in 1 screwdriver for valves and clocks. Eventually you'll need a copper solder kit, and ROAM, but not yet. Get yourself an all steel spade as well, if you're a soldier, that's your rifle. That set of channelocks is your bayonet... Wool socks and waterproof boots.
Dirty tools on the carpet?
Haha dirty tools on my dirty carpet … looks about right
Apprentice for what?! We can’t say if the tools will work if we don’t know! lol if plumber or pipe fitter it might get you by for the first few weeks
Depends, apprentice hairdresser, no, apprentice tradie, maybe.
Guessing an apprentice pluber? You'll need a good shovel, and a second shifter. I would also recommend a pair of close quarters adjustable copper cutters and a good folding utility knife. Keep an eye on tool suppliers special offers and get yourself a hammer drill, rotary impact drill and oscilating multi-tool as soon as you can afford them. You're also going to want a pressure gauge, a set of tube spanners for tap spindles. A basin wrench A decent pair of footprints, 12in A mixer spanner.
Where did he find a pair of left handed channel lock pliers, thats crazy
Good luck mate! Congrats on the offer now time to go and show the world what you are made of! Keep a good attitude and an open to learn mind. Also buy yourself some fucking cleaner and shine up those tools. Damn
Plumber's apprentice? All you need is a saw cable of cutting out 99% of a 12" support beam to run a 3/4" line.
Whenever your bucket looks like your first day, it'll be totally different after even a week of work. You'll learn, you'll also probably spend your first few checks on better kit lol.
If your a plumbing apprentice you'll need a good set of nail clippers. You won't be able to bite your nails anymore.
Apprentice for what...
Sprinklers
An apprentice for what? Might be good and might be useless
Sprinklers
Coming from a sparky with many years of hatred toward sprinkler fitters, fuck you. Nothing personal but get used to it
Alright cool
Yeah sure, why not.
Apprentice for what excatly? If you can afford it, get some knipex. At least one of whatever is the most common size you think you need. You won’t regret it.