[glock35ipsc]

If you buy ANYTHING that you use for work, that your employer does not provide, keep the receipts and give them to your tax preparer. Boots, clothes, safety glasses, rubber gloves and crayolas and vasoline (long story!), anything you use for work.

I wouldn't suggest you go all in on credit for tools either. If you can get the job done as-is right now, save up and buy what you can as you go along. Even if it's used, you can find some great deals on used tools. My stuff is about 70% Snap-on and 25% Mac with some misc stuff, and I only bought a few of them new. I hate seeing young people getting into that kind of debt so early in life. Avoid it if at all possible!

Believe it or not, I have got some great deals on Snap-on tools from ebay and Craigslist. Around here. pawn shops seem to think the name Snap-on should bring 50% MORE than new prices, but it could be different in your area.

Make a list, prioritize it from tools needed the most to needed the least, then start saving and hunting!