There have been a number of threads on the forum along the lines of "what tools do I need?" or "what's in your toolbox?". This page is an attempt to create a home for such information. As well as tools, suggestions for useful gadgets are also welcome.
What tools do I need for technical theatre work?
There is no standard answer here and everyone's toolbox will be different. In addition, the various fields such as sound, lighting, AV, rigging, set building/carpentry, etc all have differing requirements. There will also be considerable variation according to the scale and nature of the work and exact roles being undertaken. Finally, size and weight of one's toolbox is also a consideration.
What tools do theatre technicians have?
General
Sound
- Assortment of audio adaptors (especially 3.5mm jack to something else) (see also Gender Changer)
Lighting
- 3 pin to 5 pin and 5 pin to 3 pin DMX converters
- DMX phase reversers, normally only needed in 3 pin variety but some people also have 5 pin ones
- DMX Terminators
- DMX Tester
Set/Carpentry
- Tagger for fastening drapes together
- Staple gun
- Staple remover
- Saw(s)
- Chisel(s)
Specific tool-related questions
- What's the best make of multitool?
- This is the subject of endless argument and is really a matter of personal preference. Note that budget multitools are invariably of extremely low quality.
- What's the best model of multitool?
- A quick survey of forums posts did not reveal any particular Gerber model, but for Leatherman fans, the Wave seems popular.
- What's the best make of adjustable spanner?
- General consensus is Bahco. However, they are expensive and many people just use budget brands as their AJ will get lost or stolen long before it wears out.
- What's the best size of adjustable spanner?
- 8"/200mm is most popular, but some people will have a selection of sizes
- What's the best type of soft hammer for assembling trusses?
- Thor No. 2 copper and hide mallet (recommended by member Seano)
- What's the best make of multimeter?
- Many people regard Fluke as superior.
- What's the best type of toolbox?
- At the lower end, anything goes and there is little agreement. Moving up a step, many people have a briefcase-style flightcase toolbox. Note that these are substantially stronger than the aluminium camera case style toolboxes, which are notorious for rapidly falling apart. At the top end of the scale, you have touring flightcased toolboxes. These are typically 2' square, between 2' and 4' high, and fitted with drawers (sometimes people make them from a rack flightcase and 19" rackmount drawers). The downside is that these are extremely heavy even when unloaded. Any major flightcase manufacturer should be able to supply the latter two types, customised to your own requirements.
- What tools should I bring on a job?
- This should always be agreed in advance with your employer. Many technicians often bring a few extra tools beyond what is required, in case of emergencies. But bringing significantly more than is expected is considered inappropriate.
- What's the best brand/model of Laser measure?
- See this topic for some good discussion on the matter.
Where can I buy tools from?
Disclaimer: the following list is not exhaustive and does not repesent endorsement of any company. Also remember that quality and price as usually related.
- All good hardware stores and DIY warehouses. These generally have the advantage of extended opening hours, but may not carry specialist tools.
- Catalogue suppliers
- The following are companies that specialise in the theatrical market:
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