Lineman Tool List: A Comprehensive Checklist for the Trade
Lineman work is the backbone of the power industry. Without the right tools and gear, even the most skilled linesman would struggle to get the job done safely and efficiently.
This job isn’t just about fixing some wires; it’s about keeping the power flowing to the homeless, businesses, and other essential places, even in the harshest weather conditions. Lineman face blistering heat and freezing temperatures head-on in emergency situations. Restoring power during storms and even doing maintenance work requires them to have the correct gear that works as hard as they do. From hand tools to specialized equipment, having the tools they need when they need them makes all the difference.
In a world powered by electricity, lineworkers are the keepers of the current. Let's dive into the tools that every linesman should have in their arsenal. Whether you're new to the trade or a seasoned veteran, this guide will help you ensure your tool belt is properly stocked.
Hand Tools
Having a variety of hand tools in your arsenal is important, especially for those in the lineworker trade. Tools like pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, and more are used for simpler tasks such as gripping and cutting wires, tightening hardware, and working with electrical terminals.
Assorted Pliers
For linemen, having a wide range of pliers can help speed jobs up.
Combination pliers are the most versatile to have on hand, and they're ideal for gripping, cutting, and twisting wires. Comfort grip pliers, though not as often seen, offer added comfort to lessen user fatigue and come with features like crimping and bolt-cutting, making them suitable for extended uses. Long-nose pliers are perfect for reaching tight spaces and making those little precise adjustments, while adjustable pliers provide flexibility to grip different sizes securely.
Each type of plier is designed to handle specific challenges, ensuring you're well-equipped for any job.
Combination Pliers
The Channel Lock 348I 8" XLT Combination Linemen’s Pliers built from high-carbon U.S. steel, are made for user comfort.
Their pipe grip design with XLT Xtreme Leverage Technology reduces hand fatigue and ensures that it can handle various shapes easily, and they’re great for gripping or twisting wires. The 1000V insulated grip offers safety against electrical hazards, a feature useful for linemen working near live wires.
Our Expert Pick:
Channel Lock 348I 8" XLT Combination Linemen's Pliers w/ 1000V Insulat
Comfort Grip Pliers
Made in the USA, these Milwaukee MT550C 9" Lineman’s Pliers are a multi-tool solution. Featuring a crimper for terminals and a bolt cutter for #6 and #8 bolts, these pliers are designed to tackle a range of electrical tasks. The optimized pivot point provides excellent leverage for cutting through wires, while the reaming head and straight fish tape puller add to their versatility.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee MT550C 9" Lineman's Comfort Grip Pliers w/ Crimper and Bolt
Need another option?
Milwaukee MT550T 9" Lineman's Comfort Grip Pliers w/ Thread Cleaner
Long-Nose Pliers
The Milwaukee MT505 8" Long Nose Pliers feature a needle nose design coupled with cross-hatched, laser-hardened teeth. The reaming head and fish tape puller add better functionality, making these pliers a practical choice for electrical work and general use in tight spaces.
Like other Milwaukee tools, these pliers are made in the USA with high-quality, press-forged steel and offer a lifetime guarantee.
Our Expert Pick:
Adjustable Pliers
Both adjustable pliers options offer their own advantages to lineman work.
The Milwaukee 48-22-6312 12" Straight-Jaw Pliers are built for reaming pipe and punching electrical knockouts, featuring exposed metal handles, a precision-ground head, and hardened teeth for a reliable grip.
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee 48-22-6512 12" Tongue & Groove Pliers offer forged strength and a reaming head for versatile use. With ergonomic dipped grips and rust protection, they provide excellent grip and durability for tasks like adjusting fittings and gripping.
You can’t go wrong with either or both of these pliers.
Straight Jaw Comfort Grip:
Milwaukee 48-22-6312 12" Straight-Jaw Pliers
Straight Jaw Dipped Grip Pliers:
Milwaukee 48-22-6512 12'' Tongue & Groove Pliers
Wrenches
For lineman work, having several different types of wrenches is a must-have because we all know the struggle of trying to guess what size you need.
Adjustable wrenches come in various sizes, allowing for versatility in tight spaces or when extra leverage is needed. Ratcheting wrenches, on the other hand, can quickly tighten or loosen fasteners without the need to reposition yourself. Insulated ratcheting wrenches add an extra layer of safety by protecting you against electrical hazards.
Adjustable Wrenches
The Milwaukee 48-22-7406 6" Adjustable Wrench and the 48-22-7415 15" Adjustable Wrench are designed to handle tough jobsites. Both models feature a proprietary adjustment screw that prevents the jaws from backing off, ensuring a secure grip on fasteners.
The 6" wrench is for smaller tasks, with a laser-etched ruler for precise adjustments and a tether-ready handle for safety. The 15" wrench, built for heavy-duty applications, offers a larger jaw capacity and parallel jaws to prevent slipping and protect finished surfaces from chipping.
Both wrenches have ergonomic handles for comfort and a chrome-plated finish for rust protection, making them reliable choices for outside work.
6” adjustable wrench:
Milwaukee 48-22-7406 6" Adjustable Wrench
15” Adjustable Wrench:
Milwaukee 48-22-7415 15" Adjustable Wrench
Ratcheting Wrenches
Both the Milwaukee 48-22-9216 Lineman’s 5-in-1 Ratcheting Wrench and the 48-22-9212 Lineman’s 4-in-1 Insulated Ratcheting Box Wrench are both designed to be durable enough to handle lineman work.
The 5-in-1 wrench combines ratcheting and hammering functions with a durable forged steel build that fits multiple hardware sizes.
On the other hand, the 4-in-1 insulated wrench offers protection up to 1,000V, making it ideal for electrical jobs. It also has forged steel construction, an ergonomic handle, and four socket sizes, along with a lanyard hole for added safety.
5-in-1:
Milwaukee 48-22-9216 Lineman’s 5-in-1 Ratcheting Wrench
Insulated option:
Milwaukee 48-22-9212 Lineman’s 4-in-1 Insulated Ratcheting Box Wrench
Screwdrivers
For linemen, screwdriver sets with cushion grips provide comfort when working long hours, helping to reduce hand fatigue when dealing with repetitive tasks. Insulated screwdrivers are especially important for electrical work, offering protection against high voltage and ensuring safety when working around live circuits.
Additionally, individual screwdrivers like Phillips and demolition drivers are designed for specific applications, such as securing terminal blocks or handling heavy-duty tasks. Having a variety of screwdrivers not only enhances efficiency but also ensures you aren't left searching for the one you need.
Screwdriver Sets
The MT200-6 set features custom-machined, laser-etched tips for a secure grip, reducing stripping, and is made from high-strength boron-infused steel for heavy use. Its cushion grip handles enhance comfort, making it versatile for various fastening tasks.
On the other hand, the 48-22-2210 set is tailored for electrical work with 1,000V insulation and wear indicators for safety. It includes a range of tip sizes and types, organized in a foam case, with cushioned grips and lanyard holes for added functionality and safety.
Both sets offer reliability and performance, whether for general fastening or specialized electrical tasks.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee MT200-6 6PC Cushion Grip Screwdriver Kit (USA)
Insulated option:
Milwaukee 48-22-2210 10PC 1000V Insulated Screwdriver Set w/ EVA Foam Case
Individual Screwdrivers
Each of these screwdrivers offers features that lineman will use in their day-to-day jobs. The Milwaukee Phillips screwdriver is our expert pick, and it features a laser-etched tip to prevent stripping and a cushioned handle for comfort.
Klein’s Demolition Driver handles tough tasks with a heat-treated shaft and strike cap for effective impact.
For electrical work, the Klein Terminal Block Screwdriver delivers a strong tip fit and high torque, paired with a cushion-grip handle for extended comfort.
Made in the USA, all three tools are built for reliability.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee MT201 #1 Phillips 3" Cushion Grip Screwdriver (USA)
Demolition Driver Option:
Klein 602-7DD 5/16" Keystone Demolition Driver, 7" Shank
Terminal Block Option:
Klein 612-4 Terminal Block Screwdriver
Utility Knives
Utility knives offer precision and durability during jobs like stripping cable and cutting insulation. A sharp, reliable blade is what you need to maintain clean, safe connections. Everyone working in a trade should have a knife on hand because you never know when you'll need it the most.
Lineman Hawkbill Knife
With its stainless steel blade, the Milwaukee 48-22-1924 Lineman’s Hawkbill Knife stays sharp for longer, making cable stripping more efficient.
The oversized ergonomic handle ensures comfort during extended use, even with gloves, and the durable molded sheath features a belt clip for easy carrying and storage.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee 48-22-1924 Lineman's Hawkbill Knife w/ STICKWORK 3-in-1 Ring
Lineman Underground Knife
Stripping multi-layer wire and cable becomes a breeze with Milwaukee’s Underground Knife. Built with a stainless steel blade that stays sharp longer, this knife is a reliable choice for linemen working on underground installations. The ergonomic handle ensures comfort during all-day use, and its compact size makes it easy to store in tool pouches.
Whether splicing cable or cutting through tough layers, this knife is designed to handle the job. The blade cover, which can be stored in the handle, provides added durability and convenience. For example, when working on a 15kV feeder, this knife helps to strip insulation cleanly, ensuring safe and efficient connections.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-1929 Lineman’s Underground Knife
Hammers
Hammers play a critical role in a lineman's toolkit, offering the power and precision needed for various tasks. Whether setting large nails, driving stakes, or handling other heavy-duty work, a reliable hammer ensures efficiency and effectiveness on the job.
For linemen, hammers like the Milwaukee Milled Face Framing Hammer and the Estwing Lineman’s Hammer provide the durability and shock absorption needed for demanding tasks. These hammers are designed to handle tough materials and reduce vibration, making them essential for maintaining both comfort and productivity in the field.
Milled Face
Weighing in at 22 ounces, the Milwaukee 48-22-9022 Framing Hammer is precision-balanced for smooth strikes, and it also features an I-beam handle for extra durability.
The Shockshield Grip significantly reduces vibration, and the hammer includes a magnetic nail set for a one-handed nail setting.
Our Expert Pick:
Lineman Hammer with Shock Reduction
Crafted from a single forged piece, the Estwing E3-40L Lineman's Hammer offers a 40-ounce head and bonded Nylon Vinyl Shock Reduction Grip to provide effective performance for tough jobs.
A fully polished finish adds to its longevity and reliability, making it a dependable tool for linemen, requiring both power and precision.
Our Expert Pick:
Estwing E3-40L 40oz Lineman's Hammer with 13.5" Nylon Vinyl Shock Redu
Straight-claw Hammer
Klein’s 832-32 Lineman's Straight-Claw Hammer is built for heavy-duty use. Featuring a high-carbon steel head with a solid, octagon-shaped driving end and a strong claw, it handles large nails and lags with ease.
The straight-grain hickory handle is lacquered for durability, and the 32-ounce head makes it well-suited for demanding tasks.
Our Expert Pick:
Power Tools
Power tools are indispensable for linemen, providing the efficiency and performance required for a variety of demanding tasks. These tools, including drills, impact wrenches, cable cutters, and strippers, are essential for tasks like drilling, fastening, cutting, and stripping. They enhance productivity by offering greater power and precision compared to manual methods, helping linemen tackle challenging conditions with ease.
With advancements in battery technology and tool design, modern power tools ensure reliability and safety on the job. The ability to work faster and more efficiently translates to safer and more reliable installations and repairs.
Lineman Magnetic Drills
Engineered for high efficiency, the Milwaukee 2788-22HD M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill outperforms many corded models and offers the strongest magnetic hold on 1/4” steel.
Its self-powered magnet ensures safety even with a low battery, while AutoStop technology and REDLINK PLUS intelligence provide reliable performance and protection.
This expert kit includes everything needed for a full day’s work, including batteries, a charger, and accessories.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee 2788-22HD M18 FUEL 1-1/2" Lineman Magnetic Drill HIGH DEMAND
Impact Wrenches
The Makita XWT17Z Impact Wrench delivers up to 520 ft.lbs. of fastening torque and 740 ft.lbs. of nut-busting torque in this compact design.
Featuring a 4-speed power selection for precise control, this tool includes a brushless motor for longer run time and Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for enhanced durability.
Our Expert Pick:
Makita XWT17Z 18V LXT®Brushless Cordless 4-Speed Mid-Torque 1/2" Sq. D
Need one that weighs less? Check out Milwaukee’s Impact Wrench
Milwaukee 2759-20 M18 FUEL 1/2" Compact Impact Wrench with Pin Detent
Cable Cutters
Milwaukee’s 2777-21 M18 FORCE LOGIC Cable Cutter handles up to 1590 Falcon ACSR and 1/2" EHS Guy Wire with a self-latching jaw and automatic closure for easy mid-span cuts.
The 2672-21 model cuts 750 MCM copper and 1000 MCM aluminum with an open jaw for tight spaces and a 6-ton hydraulic pump. It cuts twice as fast as competitors and makes over 250 cuts per charge, allowing for one-handed operation.
Both Cable Cutters are compact, balanced, and high-performing.
ACSR Cable Cutter:
Milwaukee 2777-21 M18 FORCE LOGIC 1590 ACSR Cable Cutter
ACSR Cable Cutter:
Milwaukee 2672-21 M18 Force Logic Cable Cutter With 750 MCM Cu Jaws
Cable Strippers
Transforming cable stripping, the Milwaukee 2935CU-21S Cable Stripper Kit offers a cordless design and safety features. Its compact, right-angle design allows use in tight spaces, while the adjustable depth gauge and included 17 bushings ensure accurate stripping for various cable sizes.
The kit, in total, comes with a battery, charger, and carrying case for added convenience. Everything you need, all in one place.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee 2935CU-21S M18™ Cable Stripper Kit with 17 Cu THHN / XHHW
Utility Crimpers
The Milwaukee 2978-22BG M18 FORCE LOGIC 6T Linear Utility Crimper is fast and versatile, with a slim grip and enlarged trigger for use with Class 3 gloves.
Dual electronic release buttons make it user-friendly, and the 340° rotating head with Predictive Force Monitoring (PFM) ensures precise crimping and cutting.
The kit includes the crimper, crimping jaws, batteries, and a charger.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee 2978-22BG M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 6T Linear Utility Crimper Kit w/
Climbing Gear
Climbing gear is for linemen working at great heights, ensuring safety and efficiency on the job. As much as lineman professionals probably wish they were Spider-Man, they’re not, and they need climbing gear. This equipment includes climbing body belts for proper support and comfort, spurs or spikes for secure climbing, and hot sticks for handling wires in tight spaces.
Climbing Body-Belt
The Klein Tools 5282N-26D Body Belt provides proper support and comfort for linemen who will undoubtedly spend extended periods working at great heights. The belt’s Klein-Kord padding ensures comfort while leaning back, and the 5-inch wide cushion helps distribute weight evenly.
Built to meet OSHA standards, this belt includes corrosion-resistant forged D-rings, four suspender rings, and multiple tool loops for added convenience.
Our Expert Pick:
Klein Tools 5282N-26D Body Belt Style #5282N, 42" to 50" L
Climbing Spurs/Spikes
Klein Tools 1986AR Tree and Pole Climbers feature adjustable steel sleeves and contoured leg irons that hold the gaffs securely and comfortably. The longer, wider gaffs offer better resistance to cutouts, making them ideal for tree trimming or pole maintenance.
With cushioned leather pads and adjustable ankle straps, these climbers provide stability and comfort, ensuring you can work efficiently at height.
Our Expert Pick:
Klein Tools 1986AR Tree and Pole Climbers with 1-9/16" Gaffs
Other Sizes Include:
Klein Tools 1907AR 2-3/4" Tree Climbers with Gaffs 15 to 19"
Hot Stick
The Greenlee FP12 Extension Hot Stick is a versatile tool for pushing or pulling wires in difficult-to-reach areas. Its 12-foot length allows you to handle wires over suspended ceilings, under floors, or in tight spaces like attics.
Constructed from non-conductive, high-impact materials, this hot stick ensures safety while handling electrical work. The stick collapses to 26 inches for easy storage and transport, and a Velcro strap keeps it secure when not in use, making it a practical addition to any electrician's toolkit.
Our Expert Pick:
Greenlee FP12 Extension Hot Stick, 6'
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for linemen as they work in harsh conditions. From gloves with reinforced palms for impact and cut protection to hard hats offering top and side impact safety, each item protects a part of the worker.
Gloves
The Milwaukee 48-22-8774 Impact Cut Level 3 Gloves are built to offer superior protection and comfort for heavy-duty tasks.
These gloves feature impact-rated TPR on the back of the hand and additional leather reinforcement on the palm for extended durability. With a keystone thumb design and Gunn cut for enhanced mobility and comfort, these gloves are ideal for construction and utility work where both impact and cut protection are crucial.
The reinforced palms and impact protection ensure you stay safe while handling tools and materials.
XX-Large: Milwaukee 48-22-8774 Impact Cut Level 3 Goatskin Leather Gloves - XXL
X -Large: Milwaukee 48-22-8773 Impact Cut Level 3 Goatskin Leather Gloves - XL
Large: Milwaukee 48-22-8772 Impact Cut Level 3 Goatskin Leather Gloves - L
Hard Hats
The Milwaukee 48-73-1337 BOLT Safety Helmet is designed for both top and side impact protection. It features a comfortable padded suspension system and an adjustable chin strap for a secure fit.
The BOLT accessory system allows for easy attachment of additional safety gear, such as headlamps and marker clips. With antimicrobial sweatband and removable liners, this helmet offers a customizable and hygienic option for linemen and construction workers.
Our Expert Pick:
Milwaukee 48-73-1337 BOLT Gray Front Brim Safety Helmet (USA) - Type 2
Safety Glasses
Milwaukee 48-73-2015 Safety Glasses are designed to offer high-impact protection and comfort for everyday use. The gray tinted lenses are ideal for both indoor and outdoor work, reducing glare and providing clear vision.
These glasses feature an anti-scratch hard coat to withstand tough jobsite conditions and comfortable temple arms for extended wear. With an integrated flexible nose bridge and ANSI Z87.1+ certification, these safety glasses ensure your eyes are protected while maintaining comfort throughout the workday.
Safety Glasses
Tinted: Milwaukee 48-73-2015 Safety Grey Tinted Glasses - Anti-Scratch Lenses
Clear: Milwaukee 48-73-2011 Safety Glasses - Clear Anti-Scratch Lenses
Test and Measurement Tools
Test and measurement tools are crucial for linemen, ensuring electrical systems are safe and efficient. From multimeters that measure voltage and continuity to clamp meters that check current without breaking circuits, these tools are indispensable for diagnosing issues. Megohmmeters assess insulation integrity, while voltage detectors confirm lines are de-energized before work begins. Each tool is vital for maintaining system reliability and safety in the field.
Multimeters
Fluke's 87V-MAX True-RMS Digital Multimeter is built for rugged environments, offering high accuracy in measuring voltage, current, and resistance.
It's a go-to tool for electricians and HVAC technicians who need to troubleshoot complex electrical systems. The multimeter’s durability makes it suitable for industrial settings where drops and exposure to dust or water are common.
For instance, it can be used to diagnose issues in motor drives or to check the continuity of circuits in harsh outdoor conditions.
Our Expert Pick:
Fluke 5140033 FLUKE-87V-MAX True-rms Digital Multimeter
Clamp Meters
Fluke's 324 RMS Clamp Meter excels at measuring AC current without interrupting the circuit, making it ideal for electricians working on live wires.
With additional features like temperature measurement and capacitance testing, this tool is versatile for HVAC applications.
Whether you’re checking the load on an electrical panel or diagnosing a faulty compressor, the 324 RMS provides reliable readings in a compact, easy-to-use format.
Our Expert Pick:
Megohmmeters
Greenlee's 5882A 1kV Megohmmeter is essential for assessing insulation resistance in electrical equipment. It’s particularly useful for electricians and maintenance professionals who need to ensure the safety and longevity of motors, cables, and transformers. By detecting insulation breakdowns early, this tool helps prevent costly failures.
Our Expert Pick:
Voltage Detectors
Amprobe's TIC 300 PRO is designed for safety and precision in detecting live voltage without contact. Its safe design makes it suitable for hazardous environments like oil refineries or chemical plants. This voltage detector is highly important for line workers and electricians because it's used to quickly identify live wires or faulty equipment.
For instance, it can be used to verify that a power line is de-energized before maintenance begins, ensuring the safety of the crew.
Our Expert Pick:
Amprobe 3467441 TIC 300 PRO Voltect Non-Contact Intrinsically Safe Hig
Software and Business
Software and business tools are now a big part of a lineman's job, making it easier to manage fieldwork and stay efficient. Tools like Mobilize by DataVoice let crews handle service orders, track storm damage, and respond to outages on the fly with real-time data, keeping everything running smoothly and in line with FEMA rules.
Then there’s XFMR LAB, an app that helps linemen and apprentices learn the ropes of transformer connections through real-world simulations and quick reference guides. These tools help linemen stay on top of their game, focusing more on the work that matters.
Websites:
- Product - Mobilize | DataVoice International Inc
- Lineworking Business Software | Try Free! | Tradify
Smartphone Apps:
The End of the Line
Lineman work is demanding, and having the right tools can be the difference between a job well done and a dangerous situation. The tools highlighted in this guide are not just accessories but essential lifelines that ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability on the job.
Whether it’s the precision of a multimeter, the versatility of a clamp meter, or the reliability of a megohmmeter, each tool plays its own important role in a lineman’s daily tasks.
Understanding the function and proper use of these tools is key to performing at the highest level, keeping the power industry running smoothly, and most importantly, staying safe.
Investing in quality tools is an investment in your safety and success on the line.
Lineman Tool Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a lineman’s hawkbill knife versus a standard utility knife?
The hawkbill knife’s curved blade is designed for stripping cables and cutting through tough materials like insulation. It’s more specialized for lineman tasks compared to a standard utility knife, which is more general-purpose.
How many cuts can I make per battery charge using the Milwaukee 2672-21 M18 Force Logic Cable Cutter With 750 MCM Cu Jaws?
The M18 REDLITHIUM 2.0 Battery included in the kit allows the tool to make over 250 cuts per charge, providing industry-leading runtime and productivity.
What is the warranty period for the Makita XWT17Z?
The tool comes with a 3-year limited warranty, offering protection against defects in materials and workmanship.
What is the ANSI Z87.1-2010 standard for safety glasses, and why is it important?
The ANSI Z87.1-2010 standard sets the requirements for eye and face protection, ensuring:
Lens Thickness and Impact Resistance: Glasses must be able to withstand high-impact forces to protect against flying debris and other hazards.
Optical Quality: Lenses must provide clear vision without distortion, reducing eye strain and ensuring accurate vision.
Compliance: Meeting this standard is required by OSHA to ensure safety in hazardous work environments.