I have a volt meter that has a contunity tester, but i doubt that it would handle hv. i also have an old heathkit though i have never used it as it came to me second hand and dont know if it works. between now and saturday night i hope to have time to get back to the rig again. work work work unfortunately.
You might want to find a local 'elmer' who can help you...
You don't use a continuity tester with voltage applied.... The things you are saying (as you admitted to) raise the possibility of death....
I have a friend who was killed by a Heathkit Warrior... So I know what CAN happen. I've also picked myself up from across a room from a Heathkit tube type TV.
--Shane