As for cutters I like Knipex or Lindström.

I have a Snap-on screwdriver which I have had for 12 years. Beat that!

Hmm, I was still in school 12 years ago. I only had a few cheapy tools.

I have a Snap-on screwdriver which I have had for 12 years. Beat that!

Hmm mines only lasted 7 so far, but still going strong!

CPC sell side cutters by Roebuck - good mid range stuff, V comfortable - I prefer them to the new Knipex range (fairly cheap to replace when lost or nicked, too.)

The older Knipex are ace - had mine for years.

CK excellent for screwdrivers.

Regarding Snap-on, my neighbour is a mechanic and has over 40 grands worth of the stuff - absolutely the best stuff you can buy.

Tool boxes - Stanley range with chequer plate top - ace.

i prefer the aluminium breif case type sold by b+q not bad and a compartment for every screwdriver and behind the tooltray in the lid room for my docket book looks very pro in front of customers

Got a lot of my own tools from Mills. Nice black profesional looking organized case too. CPC do some great small nippers & pliers & are reasonably priced. Carry a smaller fabric case for Mtce with basic tools & Meters.

Thanks for all the recommendations. I'll check them all out eventually. What do you reckon I should have in this tool kit? Obviously a pair of side cutters, pliers, long nose pliers, terminal driver (maybe two; one for mains work, one for alarm work) 2 or 3 different sized Philips drivers, a couple of slotted drivers, hammer, multi meter (recommendations? I was looking at the Fluke 110. Not too expensive, but not cheap)

Depends how good you are! I've got boxes full of tools, most of which I use regularly. I work with some people and wonder how they manage with the relatively few tools they turn up with!

If you get yourself a basic kit sorted as above, with a tape measure and spirit level for show, then just add to it as you need tools. I could spend days wandering around tool shops buying things so my recomendations will be way overboard!

Most motor trade mechanics buy the core tool kit of spanners etc from Snap On, which have a lifetime warranty. The expensive specialist electronic Suntuners and diagnostic equipment are purchased by the garage.

Mechanics do this for a good reason - when they move on (frequently) they have the full kit they need to do the job. Makes them more employable!