Suggestions on Multimeter?

[bradford]

Tired of using crappy multimeters that are basically throw away units. Anyone got a suggestion for one that would be considered advanced homeowner/intermediate mechanic grade? I don't mind spending a couple of bucks so long as this would be the last one I would need to buy. Thanks Ya'll.

[spareparts]

I got a nice one from sears the other day for $39, works pretty good, I have three or four harbor freight multi meters that I bought on sale for $3.95, they work pretty good. I used to have a green lee that i loved, best part was it would turn itself off if you didn't use it, so the batteries weren't always dead when i grabbed it. I have two flukes, I think they are overpriced, OTC has comparable multi meters for less money(check at NAPA, especially if they have a new store opening). I use the flukes on outboard ignition testing, everything else I use the Sears

[tsubaki]

I buy/use these things on the pretense they are fallible.
Actually have a half a dozen or so of various manufacturers, price range and capabilities. Some needle, some digital, different applications for different situations.
If I'm suspicious one is not reading close to what I think it should be, I'll change the batteries, try it again against another one and decide to toss it or depend on it.
I know you want a good answer for "one" to buy.
I haven't found any but have always really liked Sperry.

[Destroyer]

I have a Triplett analog multimeter (Almost the same size as a Simpson 260) that I've had for at least 30 years. By coincidence there's an identical unit for sale on eBay. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Triplett-60-Analog-Mulitmeter-/130635017235?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e6a742c13 Bureau of Mines approved. Mine still works like the day I got it. I also have a really nice digital Fluke 77/AN and a few of the aforementioned Harbor Freight varieties, but for everyday use I go with the Triplett. It's not the most modern, prettiest unit around, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

[THEFERMANATOR]

I have a MAC one that is basically the same as a FLUKE 78. Been a great meter for me. The SEARS brand is a rebadged FLUKE for the most part. No need to go overboard, but I would reccomend buying a good name brand. Can't go wrong with a SEARS unit for the money.

[lathehand]

I bought a micronta made for radio shack in 1969 and still useing it .Only meter I've ever owned.It's true old shoes are most comfortable.If it ever broke I don't think i could get new one as reliable

[RidgeRunner]

I have an old analog meter(25-30yrs old) It came with a case and all. If you don't set the range correctly, you can fry it. Still it has a place I'd rather use it for testing resistance testing. Bought a Fluke 77 III digital for work. It wasn't the cheapest but it is going on 10 yrs old without a problem. The analog probably cost more. Either one should last a lifetime.

[Road King Cole]

...Simpson 260....

WOW, that brings back memories....


I've had good luck with my Flukes, haven't bought one in....oh wait a minute, don't think I ever actually "bought" one...


rkc

[bradford]

Thanks for the advice ya'll.

[randlemanboater]

I have a GB Industries GDT-11. Don't remember where I got it or how much it was but I know it had to be CHEEP cause I bought it.

It works great, and every time I blow it up, I just put a new fuse in it and it works perfect again.