Porter-Cable PCCK600LB 20V MAX Lithium Ion Drill/Driver Preview
We’re taking a look at Porter-Cable’s newest 20V Max Impact Driver, but the company just released a compatible Drill/Driver this […]
SOG Contractor Knives Review
To be the best tradesman, you have to be properly equipped for the task. That includes, possibly, carrying something like the SOG […]
CRKT M16-12ZER EMT Tanto Knife Review
Blaze orange handles, a high polish stainless steel blade and special built-in features like a strap cutter and carbide window breaker make the […]
DeWalt DCS331 20V Jigsaw Review
The new DeWalt DCS331 20 Volt MAX Lithium Ion Jigsaw is designed to offer improved runtime, ergonomics, and comfort with features such […]
DeWalt DCF883 20V 3/8-inch Hog Ring Anvil Impact Wrench
The DeWalt DCF883 20V 3/8-inch Impact Wrench features a Hog Ring Anvil. It’s a great choice for automotive mechanics, maintenance professionals, mechanical and […]
Benchmade Triage 916 Knife Review
The Benchmade Triage 916 Knife might be one of the best tools to have on hand in an emergency. Even the name “Triage” imply the three main purposes of this folding knife which include a flip out strap cutter, carbide window breaker and rugged, purpose built blade. Grippy G10 handle scales, backed with full stainless steel liners, inspire confidence because of its rigid construction. The simplicity and power of the AXIS blade lock makes blade deployment and folding nearly effortless. Thankfully, we have not been in (or had to create) a “situation” to use this knife as it was designed. After our own testing and use, we find it very reassuring to know that having this knife clipped in a pocket could literally prove the difference between life or death.
Johnson Level 40-6005 Laser Distance Measure Review
Tape measures are great, but for anyone who’s done layout work or estimated for a significant construction project, you aren’t going to get much joy out of dragging out a physical tape 200 feet tape measure. The new Johnson Level and Tool 40-6005 Laser Distance Measure is a tool that takes the walking and dragging out of the distance measuring game. It’s super compact in size, yet it has an incredibly useful range. But that’s all common features of a technology that’s commonplace now. Where Johnson attempts to distinguish itself is in its flexibility and speed. The Johnson Level 40-6005 can handle taking measurements from as little as 2 inches out to its maximum of 230 feet. On top of that, it’s lighting quick, thanks to a fast on-board processor that delivers results faster than just about any other similarly-priced laser distance measure we’ve used. Accuracy is also an astounding +/- 1/16 of an inch – even out at long distances. And, just to make sure that you are on target, a built-in laser pointer shows you exactly where you are aiming. Now let’s break down the features a little at a time.
Porter-Cable PCC581B 18V Infrared Thermometer Review
Getting a quick and accurate bead on the temperature differential around an AC duct or a door can be a lifesaver for air mechanical technicians and energy efficiency specialists. While there are a lot of tools on the market that can help you do this, it’s nice to be able to reach for a familiar name – particularly when your shop is already equipped with compatible batteries and chargers. Recently Porter-Cable launched the PCC581B Infrared Thermometer, which comes as a bare tool, making it a great choice if you’re already vested in their 18V cordless platform. And if you’re not, Porter Cable also offers a 9V-powered version, the PCC582B. Both of these infrared thermometers incorporate a tri-color beam that indicates temperature changes visually along with the digital readout. When you pull the trigger, the thermometer takes a reference temperature reading while it projects a circular green beam onto the surface at which it is aimed. The projected beam colors change when a difference in temperature is detected as you scan it across an area. A blue beam identifies a cooler spot, and a red beam indicates a hotter area.
SENCO FN55AX Fusion F-18 Cordless 18 gauge Brad Nailer
With the rise of cordless finish nailers, Senco takes a different approach by using a sealed nitrogen cylinder and a lithium-ion battery to keep them powered. Recently we had the chance to try out the FN55AX Fusion F-18 Cordless 18-Gauge Brad Nailer. We found that this nailer packs in a pile of useful features, has plenty of power, and will keep up with pneumatic nailers. More and more we are turning to brad nails for our finishing projects because of their great holding power combined with the very small head size. A smaller head size means less patching and putty when you are done. There is a lot to like with this nailer and it comes in near the top of our list of must-have tools.
Ultimate Battery Power Battery Belt
If you have a lot of DeWalt, Ryobi or Craftsman 18V cordless tools and find yourself frequently running out of battery power, the Ultimate Battery Power Battery Belt is something you should definitely check out. Repetitious or continuous use of cordless power tools can be troubling, since you normally need to keep a collection of batteries on the ready. Recently, we spent some time with the new Ultimate Battery Power UBP5000BT-DW-CH Battery Belt which came with the battery adapter for top post style 18V DeWalt cordless tools. The concept behind this battery belt is that it gives you up to 3.5 times longer run-time – and that means getting through a project on a single charge and with no battery changes.