New Modder- What tools do I need?

**youngunner** · 09-10-2009, 07:31 AM

Hey Guys,

I am ready to make my first mod- I am going to try to make the NicoStik and later a Laser Pointer Mod.

My question is what kinda tools would you recommend that I should get if I am going to be a full modding machine? My pops has all kinds of tools as far as drills/bits, screw drivers, wrenches...ect he has all the common tools. I know this is a pretty vague question but I more looking towards what type of tools that you use alot specifically for modding.

I know I need to get a solder iron- would a dremel be a good idea- maybe a volt meter? any other suggestions that would give me a better chance at success for modding?

Thank You! happy vaping!

**jeffakamax** · 09-10-2009, 07:37 AM

I don't think I should answer this. My list would look like War & Peace.
Anyone else?

Don't ask Cisco either - LOL

**Cisco** · 09-10-2009, 08:00 AM

Originally Posted by jeffakamax

I don't think I should answer this. My list would look like War & Peace.
Anyone else?

Don't ask Cisco either - LOL

So you want to make a $5000.00 PV mod.....You have come to the right place

War and Peace is just the introduction.....

Volt meter, dremel and soldering gun is a great start. Get started on your mod of choice, if you need a tool buy it. It doesn't take high tech tools to make a mod, it makes it easier but not necessarily needed, ask Jeff he has a drill and a hammer........but its a government issue drill and hammer that costs $85,000.00

Cisco...

**jeffakamax** · 09-10-2009, 08:12 AM

Originally Posted by Cisco

So you want to make a $5000.00 PV mod.....You have come to the right place

War and Peace is just the introduction.....

Volt meter, dremel and soldering gun is a great start. Get started on your mod of choice, if you need a tool buy it. It doesn't take high tech tools to make a mod, it makes it easier but not necessarily needed, ask Jeff he has a drill and a hammer........but its a government issue drill and hammer that costs $85,000.00

Cisco...

I just refinanced my house, I now also have pliers. And no, you cannot borrow them!

There will never be an 'end' to the tools you need (want). Like cisco said, start building it and when you realize you need something, go get it.

**youngunner** · 09-10-2009, 08:22 AM

Yeah, I know this is really vague- just wondering if there were those gotta have tools that i'll need on every mod I do- I know you guys are way more advance than I and I still have TONS to learn but hey- I gotta start some where- thanks!

**mnealtx** · 09-10-2009, 11:54 AM

Basic electronic hand tools - wire cutter/strippers, soldering iron

Basic hand tools - drill / bits, needle nose pliers, side cutters

Optional / nice to have - dremel, reamer (that stepped, cone-looking drill bit)

Supplies - solder, superglue, epoxy putty, 22-24 ga red/black stranded wire

Absolute MUST: Patience!!

**Carlos49** · 09-11-2009, 01:42 AM

Originally Posted by mnealtx

Basic electronic hand tools - wire cutter/strippers, soldering iron

Basic hand tools - drill / bits, needle nose pliers, side cutters

Optional / nice to have - dremel, reamer (that stepped, cone-looking drill bit)

Supplies - solder, superglue, epoxy putty, 22-24 ga red/black stranded wire

Absolute MUST: Patience!!

Patience is the most important one!!! LOL

**breakfastchef** · 09-11-2009, 01:54 AM

After building several vacuum tube audio components and a few battery packs for my 801-style atomizers, this is the makeup of my electronics tool kit. Certainly overkill to build a modded flashlight, but definitely useful if you plan on taking on other projects.

Equipment & Tools

- Xytronic 379 soldering station, temperature controlled ($50 from howardelectronics.com)
- Helping hands (Radio Shack has these)
- Hands-Free Magnifier (like this one - GarrettWade Woodworking Tools & Supplies, Shop Tools, Hand Tools, Measuring Tools, Knives & Drills)
- Solder Sucker
- De-soldering Braid
- Digital Auto-Ranging Multi-Meter (picked up a decent one at Wal-Mart for $28)
- Wire strippers
- Wire cutters (regular size and miniature)
- Needle nosed pliers
- Tweezers
- Forceps
- X-Acto knife
- Dental pics
- Screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. (stuff you probably have on hand)
- Test leads with alligator clips on each end
- Rulers (6" works fine)
- Drill and bits (drill press can come in very handy, too)
- Small files
- Light source on articulated arm
- -Nut drivers

Supplies
- Solder (most any lead solder with flux core should be fine)
- Flux
- Small brushes (dusting, flux application)
- Cable ties
- Heatshrink tubing (selection of various diameters)
- Heat Gun (to shrink the heatshrink tubing)
- Containers to hold parts