You survived your first year. You've got calluses, you know which journeyman to avoid before coffee, and your wire strippers feel like an extension of your hand. Now it's time to level up your toolkit.
Second year is when the real work begins. You'll be bending conduit, running your own circuits, and taking on tasks that require more specialized tools. The good news? You don't need to buy everything at once—but strategic additions will make your life significantly easier.
This guide covers the essential tools to add in year two, what upgrades make sense, and how to budget for it all without going broke.
Year 2 Tool Budget
Plan to invest $500-800 throughout your second year on new tools and upgrades. Spread purchases across the year based on what jobs you're assigned.
1. Conduit Bender (1/2" EMT)
This is the big one. If your company doesn't provide benders (many don't for apprentices), you'll need your own. A 1/2" EMT bender is your starting point—it's the most common size for branch circuits.
Klein Tools 56206 1/2" EMT Bender
Pros
- ✓Precision bending marks and degree indicators
- ✓High-strength, lightweight aluminum head
- ✓Comfortable grip handle
- ✓Wide hooks prevent conduit kickback
Cons
- ✗Handle sold separately (get the 51427 Iron handle)
- ✗Marks can wear off with heavy use
Ideal 74-026 1/2" EMT Bender
Pros
- ✓Clear, easy-to-read markings
- ✓Reinforced hook design
- ✓Compatible with most handles
- ✓Excellent value
Cons
- ✗Slightly heavier than Klein
- ✗Handle also sold separately
What About 3/4" and 1" Benders?
Wait until you need them regularly. Most companies provide larger benders because they're used less frequently and cost more. If you do a lot of industrial work, consider adding a 3/4" bender in year 3.
2. Power Drill/Driver
While many companies provide power tools, having your own drill/driver is increasingly expected—especially for residential and commercial work. You'll use it constantly for mounting boxes, drilling pilot holes, and driving screws.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Hammer Drill (2904-20)
Pros
- ✓Brushless motor lasts longer, more power
- ✓1,400 in-lbs torque handles everything
- ✓Hammer function for masonry/concrete
- ✓M18 battery system has 200+ tools
Cons
- ✗Premium price
- ✗Need to buy batteries separately ($80-150)
- ✗Heavier than 12V options
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill (DCD998)
Pros
- ✓Excellent power-to-weight ratio
- ✓3-speed transmission for versatility
- ✓Built-in LED light
- ✓20V battery system widely used
Cons
- ✗Batteries not included
- ✗Slightly less power than Milwaukee
💡 Battery System Strategy
Pick one battery platform and stick with it. Milwaukee M18, DeWalt 20V, or Makita 18V are all excellent. Once you're invested in one system, all your future tools should match. Most electricians go with whatever their company uses.
Impact Driver vs Hammer Drill
Get the hammer drill first. It handles both drilling and driving. An impact driver is faster for screws but is a "nice to have" in year 2—add one in year 3 if budget allows.
3. Hole Saws & Knockout Set
You can't run conduit into panels and boxes without making holes. A hole saw set handles drywall and wood, while a knockout set handles metal enclosures.
Klein Tools 31873 8-Piece Electrician Hole Saw Kit
Pros
- ✓Includes all common sizes (7/8" to 2-1/2")
- ✓Quick-change arbor saves time
- ✓Bi-metal construction lasts
- ✓Organized case keeps bits together
Cons
- ✗May need additional sizes later
- ✗Arbor can loosen over time
Greenlee 7238SB Slug-Buster Knockout Set
Pros
- ✓Clean, burr-free holes in steel
- ✓Includes 1/2" to 2" punches
- ✓Ratcheting driver included
- ✓Heavy-duty carrying case
Cons
- ✗Expensive for occasional use
- ✗Heavy to carry around
4. Fish Tape
Your first year fish tape was probably a cheap 25-footer from the hardware store. Year two calls for something more serious—especially if you're fishing wire through long runs or existing walls.
Klein Tools 56331 Steel Fish Tape, 50'
Pros
- ✓50' handles most residential/commercial runs
- ✓Steel construction for pushing through insulation
- ✓Low-friction polymer coating
- ✓Heavy-duty case won't crack
Cons
- ✗Heavier than fiberglass
- ✗Can kink if mishandled
Ideal 31-056 Fiberglass Fish Tape, 50'
Pros
- ✓Non-conductive (safer around live circuits)
- ✓Lighter weight than steel
- ✓Won't rust or corrode
- ✓Better for pulling, not pushing
Cons
- ✗Harder to push through insulation
- ✗Can break if bent too sharply
Steel Fish Tape
- ✓ New construction
- ✓ Pushing through insulation
- ✓ Conduit runs
- ✓ Long straight pulls
Fiberglass Fish Tape
- ✓ Existing walls
- ✓ Near live circuits
- ✓ Wet locations
- ✓ Gentle bends
5. Channel Locks / Pump Pliers
You might have gotten by with one pair in year one, but year two calls for a proper set. You'll use these for tightening locknuts, holding fittings, and general gripping tasks.
Channellock 2-Piece Pliers Set (GS-1)
Pros
- ✓Includes 9.5" and 6.5" pliers
- ✓Made in USA quality
- ✓Patented tongue-and-groove design
- ✓Blue comfort grips
Cons
- ✗Grips can slip when wet
- ✗May want to add 12" size later
Knipex Cobra Set (3-Piece)
Pros
- ✓Push-button adjustment (one-handed)
- ✓Self-gripping on pipes and nuts
- ✓Made in Germany quality
- ✓Won't slip under heavy torque
Cons
- ✗Double the price of Channellock
- ✗Some find adjustment less intuitive
First Year Tool Upgrades
Some of your first-year tools served you well, but it might be time to upgrade. Here are the most impactful improvements:
More accurate readings, CAT IV rating for panel work, true RMS for non-linear loads. The Fluke will last your entire career.
Better organization, more durable materials, won't fall apart mid-job. Your back will thank you for proper weight distribution.
Brighter output, longer battery life, more durable construction. Rechargeable options save money on batteries.
Wider blade stays rigid longer, better durability, magnetic tip helps with solo measurements.
Don't Upgrade Everything
Focus upgrades on tools you use daily. Your Klein wire strippers are probably fine. Your cheap multimeter? That should definitely be upgraded before you work on any live panels.
Year 2 Budget Breakdown
Here's how to spread your tool purchases throughout the year:
| Tool | Price Range | Priority | When to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2" EMT Bender | $60-75 | Essential | First month |
| Hammer Drill | $180-220 | Essential | First quarter |
| Batteries (2-pack) | $80-150 | Essential | With drill |
| Hole Saw Kit | $90-110 | High | Second quarter |
| Fish Tape (50') | $45-55 | High | As needed |
| Channel Lock Set | $40-50 | High | First quarter |
| Fluke Multimeter | $150-180 | Upgrade | Before panel work |
| Quality Tool Belt | $150-300 | Upgrade | When current fails |
Total Investment Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy Milwaukee or DeWalt?
Both are excellent. The best strategy is to match what your company uses—you can share batteries with coworkers and access company chargers. If you're starting fresh, Milwaukee M18 has the largest tool ecosystem, but DeWalt 20V is a close second.
Do I need a 3/4" and 1" bender too?
Not in year two. Most companies provide larger benders because they're used less frequently. Master the 1/2" bender first. Consider adding 3/4" in year three if you do a lot of commercial work.
Is it worth buying tool only vs kits?
If you're starting a battery platform, buy a combo kit (drill + impact + 2 batteries + charger). If you already have batteries, buy tool-only to save money. The math works out to about 30% savings on tool-only purchases.
Should I buy used power tools?
For drills and impacts, factory reconditioned from authorized dealers is fine (usually 20% off with warranty). Avoid used batteries—they degrade significantly and can be dangerous. Never buy used hole saws or benders.
What's the best way to organize new tools?
Invest in a good tool bag or backpack with multiple compartments. Milwaukee Packout and Veto Pro Pac are popular choices. Keep power tools separate from hand tools, and always know where your most-used items are.
Can I expense any of these for taxes?
Yes! Unreimbursed tools are deductible if you itemize. Keep all receipts and track expenses with an app. Talk to a tax professional—many electricians deduct $500+ in tools annually.
Level Up Your Career
Year two is when you transition from "helper" to "apprentice who can actually get stuff done." The right tools make that transition smoother—and show your journeyman and foreman that you're serious about the trade.
Don't rush to buy everything at once. Prioritize the conduit bender and power drill first, then add other tools as your jobs require them. Quality over quantity—a few good tools will outlast a bag full of cheap ones.
Track Your Tool Investments
SparkShift helps apprentices track OJT hours, manage tool inventories, and keep receipts organized for tax deductions. See everything in one place.
Start Tracking FreeGot questions about second year tools? Join our community of apprentices sharing tips, deals, and advice. Your journey is just getting started—make sure you have the right tools for the ride.