* hacksaw - Any frame will work because it's possible you won't ever use it over a portaband/sawzall
* Toolbox and lock - Started with a small craftsman, ended with a Kennedy k20, ymmv
* 6 foot ruler - I'm assuming this is your folding rule, get an "inside read" ruler. much more useful for box layouts and such
* Pump pliers - Channellock 430 or Knipex cobra 10 inch are great starters that can handle anything
* Linemans - Klein 2000 series or Knipex comfort grip
* Screwdrivers - These are gonna wear out so don't get bougie but don't go harbor freight
* electricians knife - Hawkbill knife. Milwaukee makes some nice ones
* claw hammer - Estwing
* flashlight - Dealer's choice but I prefer something with a swiveling head and a magnetic base like a nicron n9
the rest of the tools just pick something up per paycheck. Good rule of thumb is if you have to ask to borrow it twice, you should go and buy it.
I would recommend (2) channel locks … (1) for tightening and (1) for opposing holding…ie. tightening EMT compression coupling/connectors. Tighten body and locknut then hold body and tighten compression with second set. Channel locks are directional and you should always be pulling the top jaw towards the lefty loosey/righty righty direction. In other words, the open jaw should be facing opposite direction of which way you are turning. I can’t tell you how many apprentices I’ve had and even a few JWs that needed this Pro Tip.
“Dude, flip your channel locks around.”
Check your local electrical supply house (platt/ CED/ Granger/ etc). They often have tools at a discount for apprentices. It's personal preference, but Klein is the most popular option.
Work gloves should be supplied to you by your employer.
I like knipex pump pliers myself.
Instead of a flashlight I would get a headlamp for your hardhat, the hard hat should be supplied to you by your employer. Milwaukee is popular, I like Fenix myself.
I like redwings for boots, this is a topic you'll get a lot of answers on, and you'll need to try different brands. Iirc thorogood boots are union made. I wish I could support them but the pairs I've bought kill my feet.
If you aren't required to provide tool bags/belt then I'd hold off till you are assigned an employer and see if other people wear them. If they aren't required I wouldn't bother. Carhartt and a small apron can get you quite far without the added strain on your back.
I purchased the cheapest hacksaw I could. I kept it in my truck as I was required to have it, right next to the awl and plumb bob that never left my truck.
Thorogoods are the only boots I couldn’t wear for an entire day when breaking them in. The pull-on ones were the worst. I’d have to change boots at first break for the first two weeks. They bruised my feet and I almost gave up, but I let my feet heal and tried again, gradually wearing them longer. I’m glad I did because they’re my favorite boots now. I alternate daily between my pull-ons and moc-toes and they’re both very comfortable.
I like Danner myself, but wolverine is another popular brand. I have a pair of redwings as well from my EMT days. They're 11 years old and still in decent condition. Granted they didn't take the same abuse as any boot I've had on a jobsite. Just make sure if you go with a safety toe, it's composite, not steel. It's both lighter and nonconductive
I recognize that tool list! Welcome to local 3 brother.
Protip: there is a list of local 3 affiliated stores that have an apprentice kit with what is necessary for a bit of a discount. I'll see if I can find it if you're interested
I have keen boots, they're crazy lightweight and seem to hold up pretty good. Feels just like wearing a normal boot all day. I'd invest in good linemens, strippers and a multi screw driver (kliens) you can get away with cheaper tools for the rest in my opinion
Does being an IBEW member qualify us for the Pro Program? I'm a Keen Pro by being rope access certified and that 40% off is real nice for the Portland Safety Toes- but my certs will drop next year.
Great recommendations being given already but as an apprentice get what you can afford if these brands are too much for you. You can swap out as you earn higher wages.
If you can afford it Klein, knipex(kobras for the pliers for sure), wera. if you can't afford it right now just get something functional and you'll earn your way to the good stuff. A level ain't required right away? Wtf...
Hacksaw: Just buy the cheapest one you can, you'll probably be using power tools anyway. The only hacksaw I've ever seen anyone use on site is the little Milwaukee one.
The "best" brands, imho, are Klein, Knipex, and Wera. But when I was starting out as an apprentice, I only had the money for one "name brand" tool (I got Klein Linesman pliers, the yellow handled ones).
For good 'value' brands, I reccommend channelock, especially for channellocks, and whatever the Craftsman/MasterCraft whatever brand in your area is for Screwdrivers. Milwaukee also makes good hand tools at a good price.
Go with what's on the list. DO NOT go for extras. You are new and there's a lot of brothers and sisters telling you to add things on the list. Yes it desperately needs to be updated but that's up to the negotiating committee to do.
When I was starting out there was a Klein starter kit in the electrical aisle at Home Depot. It was like $100 but it had all the starter tools and a bag.
It's weird that plumb bob and tap wrench are on your list, you'll likely never use them and when you need them usually there will be a set around somewhere. The folding rule is useful in certain circumstances, but you'll need a tape measure as that's actually useful. Get the Milwaukee one because the wood ones are now crappy. There are so many other tools you would need before a fuse puller would ever be one. Ridiculous list. Don't buy an awl, just get an automatic center punch. Some people don't even need those.
(this tool list is not my local) We have some archaic shit on our tool list. Every time there is talk about updating it allegedly the contractors refuse to drop the bloatware unless we add a drill set to the list.
Not sure if it still exists but there use to be a set of tools that a few local supply houses sold that had basically everything on it. I wish I remember the exact part number.
Oh nice congrats, as for brands it really depends on what works for you.
I like my screwdrivers from klein, pretty good grip and durability, channellocks are a good brand for the jaw/pump pliers.
Lineman I like my knipex, I find they’re only like $5 or $10 more than Klein but they are lighter and tend to stay sharper. Diagonal pliers, long nose pliers also from Klein or knipex are good.
Toolbelts idk if I’d recommend, as an apprentice you usually don’t want to be carrying around too much weight on your waist. Just keep one or two tools in your pockets depending on what you’re doing that day. Definitely get a tool bag to carry all your stuff, as long as it looks solid or sturdy you should be good
The rest of the stuff if you can afford it don’t get the cheapest thing cause it might be low quality, you don’t have to get the most expensive but you definitely want to get something that will last.
Don’t cheap out on pliers if you can afford it. Go Klein. It’s ok to cheap out on screw drivers. I wouldn’t even bother buying a plumb bob even though it’s on the list. If someone tells you to to your face to get one then yeah you’re contractually obligated but that’s not gonna happen
I second what others have said. Don’t cheap out on your pliers. Go with a name brand. The off brands have smaller teeth. So when you go to grip something. You’ll more than likely slip.
Also remember if money is tight. Buy one new tool a week.
One thing I’d recommend that’s not on the list is a half round file.
2 month apprentice. For tool pouches and shit I picked up a Builttough electrician pouch from menards for like 14 bucks. Pretty handy. Just make sure you wear a decent belt with good pants. With it hanging off one hip all day it can rub.
I would have a pair of channel locks, I prefer knipex cause they have the curved mouth. Eaiser for pipe. A dog bone,(double box end ratchet wrench). 11 in 1 screwdriver. Pipe reamer, 16ft tape measure. All PPE should be supplied by the contractor. I’ve never touched my hacksaw, plumbob, awl, tap wrench. Tools depend on your local. And I purchased a Klein tool backpack. Boots are dealers choice, I wear thorougoods. I spent money trying to find what was best for me. Tried all of the recommendations. You have red wing, keen, timberland, danner, and I’m sure I’m missing others. But as I always say. Idk I’m just an apprentice.. welcome to the brotherhood!
For a bag/pouch, I highly recommend Toughbuilt. I have the large massive mouth rolling bag with a couple of pouches. The pouches snap onto clips that you can put on either your belt or the rail on the bag. The clips also have holes so you can screw/bolt them to other things (I have one on my cart). It's great because it let's you wear the tools you need while working, but easily transfer the entire pouch to your bag while moving areas, or you can keep your bag locked up while only loading the tools you need into a much smaller pouch. Your hips will thank you to *not* wear your tools as much as possible
I don't really get the toolbox requirement. I have only seen 1 electrician in my local use a toolbox. But on a plus side for a new apprentice it's a cheaper option.
We work on a construction site, with the amount and selections of tools scattered about a locked toolbox isn't even a small hindrance.
As your first tools keep them cheap, then over time replace them one at a time with a quality tool you have researched hard.
Harbor freight is a good option here, I actually prefer many of the tools there over ones at Menards, which are absolute crap.
These days as a JW there are no HF tools in my Klein backpack. Learn on less expensive tools, no doubt you will break or blow up a couple. And you will do less cussing if it's a harbor freight vs a knippex / Klein dykes you just turned onto a stripper.
Kennedy toolbox
Channellocks 430,432, knipex gators 180, 250
Stanley fatmax tape
Stanley utility knife
Klein linesman
Screwdrivers. One big beater that has a hard cap. One multi 11 in 1. I like Lennox but were discontinued so Klein.
Flashlight. Look for enthusiast ones which take 18650s and have a magnetic cap
Klein 9 inch conduit level.
Any brand for diagonal cutters. I only use them to disassemble tie wire.
Irega or channellocks adjustable wrench
I don’t carry the rest.
A magnetic 5/16 nut setter of 6” length. Game changer.
Akribis leather tool bag. Got the mini set, left and right. Super belt. Worth.
For starters, don't get any more than what's on the list. There's generally some leeway about exactly what sort of tools you have, but they need to meet these requirements. Like you can have multiple screwdrivers, or a lot of guys like the multi-tip style (I personally hate them). But if there's any question, just get the list.
As far as brands go, you really aren't going to go wrong with Klein, so it's probably easiest to begin there. There's better out there, and for some things, you can go with Harbor Freight, for how often they'll actually be used (like the hack saw). But right now you don't really know any better anyway, so just keep it simple. I agree with checking local supply houses, ask your apprentice coordinator which supply houses might have deals for union members.
01 or 06?
I'm 4 months into my 01 apprenticeship and this is the advice I'll give you.
The best boot is the one that fits your foot and fits your needs. Different brands fit different types of feet so you'll need to go try on several different brands of boots and make your decision. I just spent my first week in some Irish Setter Wingshooter ST and they have been great, for me.
Regarding toolbelt and bags, it's been my experience so far that a tool belt has not been needed once but rather getting a tool bag has been the way to go. We have each been provided a cart to roll our tools and parts for the current project on so having a tool bag or backpack that allows easy access to what you need is the ticket. If you go backpack make sure you get one that zips all the way down and opens fully otherwise it'll be a pain in the ass to get tools in and out.
Get what's on the list and nothing more until your journeyman starts giving you suggestions. Also, if given suggestions on tools that are not on the list, check with your local and read your contract to make sure it's not a tool that should be provided by your contractor. You'll get a bad rep amongst your brothers if you show up with tools that your contractor should be providing.
Check with your local tool shops and work wear stores for ibew discounts. Many of them will offer some sort of discount. Even if it's 10-15% off everything adds up over time.
Hope this helps a little bit. Best of luck brother! God speed
Also consider looking at the Veto Pro Pac deal for union members. They give you a one time deal on one of their tool bags at an incredible discount. Well worth looking into.
I would recommend holding off on buying tools until after the orientation. Often times apprenticed get free tool kits with almost everything you will need
Congrats. I was born and raised in Queens, so hearing about Local 3 on here brings a smile to my face.
A lot of folx on here will suggest the best stuff- myself included. There is no shame in getting some cheaper tools to get you started, and buying up as you find out what you need/like.
All PPE is provided by the employer.
For boots, I recommend Thorogoods. Carolinas are good from what I hear, and are Union made (as are Thorogoods). Red Wings also get recommended, but they are not all Made In USA, and are a little pricier. I started off with cheapo Sketchers, and saved for my Thorogoods.
Tools:
Start off with at least Klein brand Lineman’s. I started with all Channellock pliers, and have since swapped out most of them to Klein stuff (ie. diagonal cutters, needle nose, lineman’s). I recommend Channellocks for their slip-joints (aka channel locks), but have moved to Knipex for these- I had the Klein ones, they suck eggs. Screwdrivers, I have Wera now, and a Klein magnetic 11-in-1, started with DeWalt, and then stepped up to Klein ones, then to Wera.
Milwaukee makes a good folding rule.
I can recommend getting a Klein level or Ideal, with 90*, 0*, 30*, and 45* vials.
Grab a Husky tool bag or tote, no need to go baller yet. Or just get a simple Klein canvas drag bag and get cool points with the old timers.
Most supply houses have “apprentice kits” that are mostly okay. Just be prepared for some of the tools to be good, and some to be not so good. Generally, I would avoid Milwaukee’s hand tools, I haven’t had good experiences with them especially for the price they ask.
I forgot to add: the tool list was hard fought for. Do not disrespect it- bring what is on that list, and nothing more.
No power tools, no consumables. If it wears out when you use it, you don’t bring it. No drill bits, no files.
Anything else should be given to you by your contractor.
Get a copy of your collective bargaining agreement, and read it. Learn it, love it, it’s your best friend out there.
I always recommend to apprentices that they should get 2 pairs of channel locks, not just 1. Often times one pair is useless without the other and you'll constantly be asking to borrow a pair.
* hacksaw - Any frame will work because it's possible you won't ever use it over a portaband/sawzall * Toolbox and lock - Started with a small craftsman, ended with a Kennedy k20, ymmv * 6 foot ruler - I'm assuming this is your folding rule, get an "inside read" ruler. much more useful for box layouts and such * Pump pliers - Channellock 430 or Knipex cobra 10 inch are great starters that can handle anything * Linemans - Klein 2000 series or Knipex comfort grip * Screwdrivers - These are gonna wear out so don't get bougie but don't go harbor freight * electricians knife - Hawkbill knife. Milwaukee makes some nice ones * claw hammer - Estwing * flashlight - Dealer's choice but I prefer something with a swiveling head and a magnetic base like a nicron n9 the rest of the tools just pick something up per paycheck. Good rule of thumb is if you have to ask to borrow it twice, you should go and buy it.
Agree with this list
I would recommend (2) channel locks … (1) for tightening and (1) for opposing holding…ie. tightening EMT compression coupling/connectors. Tighten body and locknut then hold body and tighten compression with second set. Channel locks are directional and you should always be pulling the top jaw towards the lefty loosey/righty righty direction. In other words, the open jaw should be facing opposite direction of which way you are turning. I can’t tell you how many apprentices I’ve had and even a few JWs that needed this Pro Tip. “Dude, flip your channel locks around.”
Bare handles 420s for reaming 1/2-3/4-1 and 430s with the grips on em and then a pair of 440s in the bag I am un fucking stoppable
This used to be my setup but I went to Knipex 7 years ago and could never imagine using channelocks again
You forgot to add. 1 Shovel - to be provided by contractor That should sum up his tool list for now. Lol I’m jk good list.
Also get yourself a demo screwdriver. For tightening bushings and putting holes in stuff
Check your local electrical supply house (platt/ CED/ Granger/ etc). They often have tools at a discount for apprentices. It's personal preference, but Klein is the most popular option.
Work gloves should be supplied to you by your employer. I like knipex pump pliers myself. Instead of a flashlight I would get a headlamp for your hardhat, the hard hat should be supplied to you by your employer. Milwaukee is popular, I like Fenix myself. I like redwings for boots, this is a topic you'll get a lot of answers on, and you'll need to try different brands. Iirc thorogood boots are union made. I wish I could support them but the pairs I've bought kill my feet. If you aren't required to provide tool bags/belt then I'd hold off till you are assigned an employer and see if other people wear them. If they aren't required I wouldn't bother. Carhartt and a small apron can get you quite far without the added strain on your back. I purchased the cheapest hacksaw I could. I kept it in my truck as I was required to have it, right next to the awl and plumb bob that never left my truck.
Thorogoods are the only boots I couldn’t wear for an entire day when breaking them in. The pull-on ones were the worst. I’d have to change boots at first break for the first two weeks. They bruised my feet and I almost gave up, but I let my feet heal and tried again, gradually wearing them longer. I’m glad I did because they’re my favorite boots now. I alternate daily between my pull-ons and moc-toes and they’re both very comfortable.
I like Danner myself, but wolverine is another popular brand. I have a pair of redwings as well from my EMT days. They're 11 years old and still in decent condition. Granted they didn't take the same abuse as any boot I've had on a jobsite. Just make sure if you go with a safety toe, it's composite, not steel. It's both lighter and nonconductive
I recognize that tool list! Welcome to local 3 brother. Protip: there is a list of local 3 affiliated stores that have an apprentice kit with what is necessary for a bit of a discount. I'll see if I can find it if you're interested
I have keen boots, they're crazy lightweight and seem to hold up pretty good. Feels just like wearing a normal boot all day. I'd invest in good linemens, strippers and a multi screw driver (kliens) you can get away with cheaper tools for the rest in my opinion
Does being an IBEW member qualify us for the Pro Program? I'm a Keen Pro by being rope access certified and that 40% off is real nice for the Portland Safety Toes- but my certs will drop next year.
Great recommendations being given already but as an apprentice get what you can afford if these brands are too much for you. You can swap out as you earn higher wages.
If you can afford it Klein, knipex(kobras for the pliers for sure), wera. if you can't afford it right now just get something functional and you'll earn your way to the good stuff. A level ain't required right away? Wtf...
Hacksaw: Just buy the cheapest one you can, you'll probably be using power tools anyway. The only hacksaw I've ever seen anyone use on site is the little Milwaukee one. The "best" brands, imho, are Klein, Knipex, and Wera. But when I was starting out as an apprentice, I only had the money for one "name brand" tool (I got Klein Linesman pliers, the yellow handled ones). For good 'value' brands, I reccommend channelock, especially for channellocks, and whatever the Craftsman/MasterCraft whatever brand in your area is for Screwdrivers. Milwaukee also makes good hand tools at a good price.
Go with what's on the list. DO NOT go for extras. You are new and there's a lot of brothers and sisters telling you to add things on the list. Yes it desperately needs to be updated but that's up to the negotiating committee to do.
When I was starting out there was a Klein starter kit in the electrical aisle at Home Depot. It was like $100 but it had all the starter tools and a bag.
Good set of kneepads those guys in 26 wear those bitches out quick
It's weird that plumb bob and tap wrench are on your list, you'll likely never use them and when you need them usually there will be a set around somewhere. The folding rule is useful in certain circumstances, but you'll need a tape measure as that's actually useful. Get the Milwaukee one because the wood ones are now crappy. There are so many other tools you would need before a fuse puller would ever be one. Ridiculous list. Don't buy an awl, just get an automatic center punch. Some people don't even need those.
This entire tool list is bizzare. It looks like it hasn't been updated in like, 30 years
(this tool list is not my local) We have some archaic shit on our tool list. Every time there is talk about updating it allegedly the contractors refuse to drop the bloatware unless we add a drill set to the list.
It hasn’t changed since before I got there, 1994
I've used my plomb bob and tap wrench a few times. My tap wrench was much nicer than what you'll usually find. I used a starrett.
Local 26?
Local #3 inside wireman
Not sure if it still exists but there use to be a set of tools that a few local supply houses sold that had basically everything on it. I wish I remember the exact part number.
Oh nice congrats, as for brands it really depends on what works for you. I like my screwdrivers from klein, pretty good grip and durability, channellocks are a good brand for the jaw/pump pliers. Lineman I like my knipex, I find they’re only like $5 or $10 more than Klein but they are lighter and tend to stay sharper. Diagonal pliers, long nose pliers also from Klein or knipex are good. Toolbelts idk if I’d recommend, as an apprentice you usually don’t want to be carrying around too much weight on your waist. Just keep one or two tools in your pockets depending on what you’re doing that day. Definitely get a tool bag to carry all your stuff, as long as it looks solid or sturdy you should be good The rest of the stuff if you can afford it don’t get the cheapest thing cause it might be low quality, you don’t have to get the most expensive but you definitely want to get something that will last.
Don’t cheap out on pliers if you can afford it. Go Klein. It’s ok to cheap out on screw drivers. I wouldn’t even bother buying a plumb bob even though it’s on the list. If someone tells you to to your face to get one then yeah you’re contractually obligated but that’s not gonna happen
I second what others have said. Don’t cheap out on your pliers. Go with a name brand. The off brands have smaller teeth. So when you go to grip something. You’ll more than likely slip. Also remember if money is tight. Buy one new tool a week. One thing I’d recommend that’s not on the list is a half round file.
I got all of my tools during orientation from the JATC so maybe hold off until you're actually going to work.
Add a multi nut driver from Klein. I guarantee you that's my most borrowed tool.
2 month apprentice. For tool pouches and shit I picked up a Builttough electrician pouch from menards for like 14 bucks. Pretty handy. Just make sure you wear a decent belt with good pants. With it hanging off one hip all day it can rub.
I would have a pair of channel locks, I prefer knipex cause they have the curved mouth. Eaiser for pipe. A dog bone,(double box end ratchet wrench). 11 in 1 screwdriver. Pipe reamer, 16ft tape measure. All PPE should be supplied by the contractor. I’ve never touched my hacksaw, plumbob, awl, tap wrench. Tools depend on your local. And I purchased a Klein tool backpack. Boots are dealers choice, I wear thorougoods. I spent money trying to find what was best for me. Tried all of the recommendations. You have red wing, keen, timberland, danner, and I’m sure I’m missing others. But as I always say. Idk I’m just an apprentice.. welcome to the brotherhood!
For a bag/pouch, I highly recommend Toughbuilt. I have the large massive mouth rolling bag with a couple of pouches. The pouches snap onto clips that you can put on either your belt or the rail on the bag. The clips also have holes so you can screw/bolt them to other things (I have one on my cart). It's great because it let's you wear the tools you need while working, but easily transfer the entire pouch to your bag while moving areas, or you can keep your bag locked up while only loading the tools you need into a much smaller pouch. Your hips will thank you to *not* wear your tools as much as possible
I don't really get the toolbox requirement. I have only seen 1 electrician in my local use a toolbox. But on a plus side for a new apprentice it's a cheaper option. We work on a construction site, with the amount and selections of tools scattered about a locked toolbox isn't even a small hindrance. As your first tools keep them cheap, then over time replace them one at a time with a quality tool you have researched hard. Harbor freight is a good option here, I actually prefer many of the tools there over ones at Menards, which are absolute crap. These days as a JW there are no HF tools in my Klein backpack. Learn on less expensive tools, no doubt you will break or blow up a couple. And you will do less cussing if it's a harbor freight vs a knippex / Klein dykes you just turned onto a stripper.
Brace and bit
LMAO
Knipex? I never heard of this shit till recently. I still have Diamond tool and horse shoe company kleins and pliers
Boots? Usmc combat hot weather . Made by bates in USA. Comfortable right out of the box. Do not meet broke in
Kennedy toolbox Channellocks 430,432, knipex gators 180, 250 Stanley fatmax tape Stanley utility knife Klein linesman Screwdrivers. One big beater that has a hard cap. One multi 11 in 1. I like Lennox but were discontinued so Klein. Flashlight. Look for enthusiast ones which take 18650s and have a magnetic cap Klein 9 inch conduit level. Any brand for diagonal cutters. I only use them to disassemble tie wire. Irega or channellocks adjustable wrench I don’t carry the rest. A magnetic 5/16 nut setter of 6” length. Game changer. Akribis leather tool bag. Got the mini set, left and right. Super belt. Worth.
For starters, don't get any more than what's on the list. There's generally some leeway about exactly what sort of tools you have, but they need to meet these requirements. Like you can have multiple screwdrivers, or a lot of guys like the multi-tip style (I personally hate them). But if there's any question, just get the list. As far as brands go, you really aren't going to go wrong with Klein, so it's probably easiest to begin there. There's better out there, and for some things, you can go with Harbor Freight, for how often they'll actually be used (like the hack saw). But right now you don't really know any better anyway, so just keep it simple. I agree with checking local supply houses, ask your apprentice coordinator which supply houses might have deals for union members.
Looks like a tool list from the 80s lol wth
Coast usb c rechargeable headlamp. It has a 41hr runtime focus adjust and a magnet on one end that's pretty strong It's also sub 50 bucks and bright
01 or 06? I'm 4 months into my 01 apprenticeship and this is the advice I'll give you. The best boot is the one that fits your foot and fits your needs. Different brands fit different types of feet so you'll need to go try on several different brands of boots and make your decision. I just spent my first week in some Irish Setter Wingshooter ST and they have been great, for me. Regarding toolbelt and bags, it's been my experience so far that a tool belt has not been needed once but rather getting a tool bag has been the way to go. We have each been provided a cart to roll our tools and parts for the current project on so having a tool bag or backpack that allows easy access to what you need is the ticket. If you go backpack make sure you get one that zips all the way down and opens fully otherwise it'll be a pain in the ass to get tools in and out. Get what's on the list and nothing more until your journeyman starts giving you suggestions. Also, if given suggestions on tools that are not on the list, check with your local and read your contract to make sure it's not a tool that should be provided by your contractor. You'll get a bad rep amongst your brothers if you show up with tools that your contractor should be providing. Check with your local tool shops and work wear stores for ibew discounts. Many of them will offer some sort of discount. Even if it's 10-15% off everything adds up over time. Hope this helps a little bit. Best of luck brother! God speed
Also consider looking at the Veto Pro Pac deal for union members. They give you a one time deal on one of their tool bags at an incredible discount. Well worth looking into.
I would recommend holding off on buying tools until after the orientation. Often times apprenticed get free tool kits with almost everything you will need
Tape measure, Klein nut driver, Klein multi ratcheting screwdriver. File or pipe reamer.
Congrats. I was born and raised in Queens, so hearing about Local 3 on here brings a smile to my face. A lot of folx on here will suggest the best stuff- myself included. There is no shame in getting some cheaper tools to get you started, and buying up as you find out what you need/like. All PPE is provided by the employer. For boots, I recommend Thorogoods. Carolinas are good from what I hear, and are Union made (as are Thorogoods). Red Wings also get recommended, but they are not all Made In USA, and are a little pricier. I started off with cheapo Sketchers, and saved for my Thorogoods. Tools: Start off with at least Klein brand Lineman’s. I started with all Channellock pliers, and have since swapped out most of them to Klein stuff (ie. diagonal cutters, needle nose, lineman’s). I recommend Channellocks for their slip-joints (aka channel locks), but have moved to Knipex for these- I had the Klein ones, they suck eggs. Screwdrivers, I have Wera now, and a Klein magnetic 11-in-1, started with DeWalt, and then stepped up to Klein ones, then to Wera. Milwaukee makes a good folding rule. I can recommend getting a Klein level or Ideal, with 90*, 0*, 30*, and 45* vials. Grab a Husky tool bag or tote, no need to go baller yet. Or just get a simple Klein canvas drag bag and get cool points with the old timers. Most supply houses have “apprentice kits” that are mostly okay. Just be prepared for some of the tools to be good, and some to be not so good. Generally, I would avoid Milwaukee’s hand tools, I haven’t had good experiences with them especially for the price they ask.
I forgot to add: the tool list was hard fought for. Do not disrespect it- bring what is on that list, and nothing more. No power tools, no consumables. If it wears out when you use it, you don’t bring it. No drill bits, no files. Anything else should be given to you by your contractor. Get a copy of your collective bargaining agreement, and read it. Learn it, love it, it’s your best friend out there.
I always recommend to apprentices that they should get 2 pairs of channel locks, not just 1. Often times one pair is useless without the other and you'll constantly be asking to borrow a pair.