Here's a fun thing to do if your bored. I'm recently back in the field after starting my own company. I've had a good time building a new tool kit, but I find I have way too much now and don't always need my big toolkit on most jobs or when I'm going to eval a new job.

This is a kit I'm currently building. A small bag that I can grab and go out to a quick service call or site evaluation.

Am I missing anything important? What can you put together for ~$100?

[Link: a.co]

For decades I've used a small kit strategy of making a mental note of when I need a tool that is not currently with me and I'll add it to the kit if I'm in this situation three times.

There will be some items that I don't often use or maybe never used since I built the kit, but don't take much space. I'll delete some of these ancient items if I need the space.

Laptop is a separate given.

In addition to a network toner and VOM, there is an assortment of small hand tools, including a level, and a flashlight on my belt. One of the more bizarre items is a 15-Ohm 1W resistor in case I need to load a tube amplifier. I haven't used this in years, but it is small.

I thought about the VOM and Toner.... I have those... but didnt think they would be something that might just come up as a "Damn, I wish I had that on me" kinda tool.

My choices for your tool selection.

[Link: a.co]

I'm sure that your experience details will be different from mine. That's why my "three fails, then add" has been so handy. I'm getting into more and more network issues and failed modular power supplies. With a VOM I can quickly check the power supply and save hours of head scratching chasing after a "rogue" router that is simply starved for power.

I'm debating if I should simply add a 12V 2A power supply to my kit.

This is difficult because there has to be a line between quick-service-kit and lets-bring-it-all-in. These are a few things i would add.

This screwdriver gets used every day. [Link: amazon.com]

Dental tool for removing speaker grills. [Link: amazon.com]

Infrared Detector Card. Not super important in a world where everything is IP and Serial but i use mine all the time for troubleshooting. [Link: amazon.com]

And something we rarely think of for a service kit...but SOOO important. How many times have you had to re-terminate water resistant cable thats filled with grease or gel...or had to dig around in cables that have been stored in an attic.Man sized nitril gloves. [Link: farmandfleet.com]

I have used many many razor knives over the years. This one holds up the best IMO. [Link: amazon.com]

I never think about gloves, but I use these everyday. I don't where them when doing ends or other delicate work, but I wear them for most everything else.

[Link: ansell.com]

You need to get some OLFA cutters. They have everything to fit your needs and a great Japanese blades. And they are available on Amazon as well.
[Link: olfa.com]

I can see those being very handy!

Used to have one of those in my wallet... I've used my phone camera on several occasions and that worked... But this is probably something to get again.


Another good one....

Hmmmm Probably another good one, and I'll probably add it.. but cant think of a scenario off hand.

Added a Pick and a utility knife to my kit.... (I got a thing for Irwin)

What about shoe covers? I generally dont have an issue removing my shoes, but sometimes working around utility rooms, basements or attics can track debris around as well.

I got a couple pairs of these washable shoe covers. Much easier to get on and off and they don't rip apart.

I got the large (size 12 shoe).

[Link: amazon.com]

I was thinking about the times i run into ceiling tile or speaker grills that have been painted over. I use the knife to "gently" free them from the paint. Also opening packages that are drop shipped or picked up on the way. Removing the jacket from wire. I use my knife/cutters/multi-screwdriver the most.

I have a knife on my keychain.. but I see where your coming from now. Definitly worth being in the kit.

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Need a tweaker in there: [Link: amazon.com]