I finally switched from using my old 2002 Fluke 87 for everything to a newer clamp meter

For years I just used that old Fluke for voltage checks and basic continuity... it was a tank but slow. On a big panel swap in Denver last month, my buddy let me try his Klein CL800, and the built-in non-contact voltage sensor and in-rush current reading saved me a ton of time. Now I keep the Fluke in the truck as a backup and use the clamp meter for most service calls. Anyone else have a go-to meter they can't work without?

3 comments

3 Comments

jenkins.spencer2mo ago

Read an article last month about how clamp meters are becoming the main tool for a lot of electricians now. They said the speed for troubleshooting on live circuits is a huge deal, especially for service work. Makes total sense after hearing your story about that panel swap. My old meter feels slow too, but I just can't bring myself to fully retire it.

karen4052mo ago

My Klein clamp meter paid for itself in a week. The old Fluke still lives in the truck for backup, but I grab the clamp first every time now.

brian3031mo ago

Notice how many tools get demoted to backup status but never fully retired. We form these weird loyalties to gear that got us through the early years. That old Fluke will probably ride in your truck until one of you quits for good.