Originally Posted By: jpeck
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Nick,
This is the way I few our inspection gadgets.
We should have as many as possible to help us out when needed, within, of course, the budget we can afford them.
Most tools get used on an 'as needed' basis. I.e., the HI sees, hears, smells something which makes them pull out whatever gadget they have which will help them.
The receptacle outlet tester, on the other hand, is used all the time. There is no indication of a problem, until you plug your tester in and check it (setting aside that occasional scorched receptacle).
Thus, like a screw driver, ladder, flash light, a good electrical receptacle tester is a must. I don't know of a better one than the Sure Test.
rmoore said "There are two models...61-154 and 61-155. The latter also has AFCI testing although there seems to be some disagreement on testing AFCI's this way." The one I would get (and have) is the 61-155 with the arc-fault test feature. Why? Simply because it did not cost much more than the one without it (I bought it at one of my seminars and the show price was the same, so why not?).
Testing AFCIs with this is rather useless (in my opinion), whereas the GFCI test feature is a necessity.
We test GFCI receptacles on a remote basis: does this one have GFCI protection, how about this one, then this one.
AFCI receptacles, on the other hand, need to be bulk tested: are all the bedroom outlets 'on', trip AFCI breaker, are all bedroom outlets now 'off'. There is no need (with a few possible exceptions) for the HI to actually need the AFCI test feature. But, why not have it if it does not cost much more?
Now, when will the HI test AFCIs? Doing this in a resale will result in turning off power to all bedroom receptacles (well, it should) on houses new enough to have AFCIs installed. Do we really want to do that? Most HIs will only test AFCIs when doing new home walk through inspections.
Either all bedroom outlets are 'on', then 'off', or something is not wired and protected by the AFCI breakers as it should be.
As far as the non-retractable ground prong on the 61-155 model, I always use mine (always have) with the cord attached as it allows me to reach down and plug it in while holding the tester where I can view it easier (especially useful for those 'upside down' receptacles and those installed horizontally). Then, the ground prong in the plug is always there anyway. Now, if you are testing a two-wire receptacle, simply plug the tester into a 3-wire to 2-wire adapter, then plug the adapter into the receptacle. See, there still is a use for those 3-wire to 2-wire adapters. 
Nick, what "bulk" quantity are you speaking of? You might be able to work out a better deal with some tool suppliers than with the factory, as they will be gaining new customers. The factory may give them a slightly better cost for the same quantity as the would give you directly as they (the tool suppliers) are existing manufacturer customers, plus this would let them (the HI tool supplier) expand their customer base. Could be a win-win for everyone. Try Jeff or Julie at Tool Experts 888-226-6288, they are local (here) and are good people. Of course, check with all HI tool suppliers for the best deal.
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Jerry Peck
South Florida