ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area multimeters best???

As per original Q, the Fluke T-5 1000 is as good a handheld tester as I think you're likely to find. I have a T-5 600, and I can't think of anything bad about it. It's about the same size as an Ideal tester, but has the ammeter capability.
Be prepared to pick up some "ghost" (up to about 40V) voltage readings from circuits that are turned off, usually running together with energized wires. A solenoid type tester can be used to double check on circuits like that.

Bigblue,

I like the Simpson 260 for its traditional design. I have two of them: One is the basic 260 in the phenolic black case; I keep this one in my workshop at home and for my own use.

I also have the newer 260-8X in the squarer bright yellow case that I carry around on jobs.

The newer models seem to have rearranged the ranges a little -- e.g. the older 260 had switch ranges up to 500V and a separate jack for 1000V whereas the latest models go to 250V on the switch with separate jacks for 500 and 1000V.

Overall I find the 260 a good general workhorse, small enough to carry easily yet large enough to be able to read the scales without difficulty. There are several carry cases available and a good range of accessories. And let's not forget that it's actually made in the U.S.A. as well

Just as a matter of curiosity, have any of you come across any of the British Avo series of meters?