A probe-type electrical tester having a lamp, a first pointed electrode
connected to the lamp, and a second electrode comprising an alligator
clip connected to the lamp.The pointed electrode occupies a sleeve which
is telescopingly stored within the tester. The sleeve terminates in a
hook shaped guard for receiving jacketed conductors to be held during
testing and to prevent injury from the pointed electrode. The sleeve is
manually extended. A lever then causes the pointed electrode to advance
within the sleeve after the sleeve has reached the fully projected
position, to enable piercing of the jacket of the jacketed conductor
being tested. A detent holds the lever in the fully projected position,
and the sleeve in its projected position. The sleeve prevented from
escaping from the tester. When the pointed electrode is retracted, the
lever can also be substantially retracted into the tester body.