Our corded tool reviews include corded saws, routers, sanders and grinders, and more. We try to ascertain the best compound miter saws and best table saws to name a few. When it comes to corded tools, often power is key. Our power tool reviews try to determine whether a new product has advanced features or specs. Once we understand what’s new we can then test the tool to get a feel for it and see if it’s truly an upgrade. When we look at tools like rotary hammers or even oscillating multi-tools, we try to determine which tools have the least vibration while performing the most work. A power tool may be able to provide more power, but at the expense of ergonomics. Other tools add great features, but sacrifice in other areas. We evaluate the whole tool, so that we get the entire picture.
The Ryobi RJ162VK is a sensible 6.5 amp reciprocating saw that is perfect for the handyman or do-it-yourselfer who doesn’t require oodles of power and who isn’t planning on doing tons of demo work. Its very reasonable street price makes it one of the more handy “gotta-have-it” tools we recommend for anyone who plans on doing any type of projects around the home.
The Ryobi HPL51K electric hand planer is a budget tool that includes some very nice features such as a left/right dust ejection dial, adjustable depth knob and blade-protecting kick stand. This tool really enables easy planning of uneven surfaces – up to 3/32″ in a single cut – and even performs edge and rabbet cuts with the included edge guide.
The Black & Decker JS515 4.5 amp Jigsaw can be found for a reasonable “street” price and offers reliable, if simplistic performance. The saw is your basic model and certainly doesn’t feature many frills besides tool-less changing of both universal and t-shank blades and a handy magnetic storage area for up to 3 blades. If you can find it on sale you may have a deal, but paying retail isn’t something we’d recommend for this model.
We reviewed the Milwaukee 1107-6 7 amp D-handle drill with the optional right angle drive attachment and were blown away by its powerful torque and drilling capability, especially in tight corners. This is a tool that, bar none, any serious contractor should have in their arsenal. This tool is not for bargain hunters, however as it will set you back quite a bit to benefit from its stellar performance.
The Hitachi C7SB2 7-1/4 inch 15 amp circular saw is a workhorse product which can be found for a very reasonable price if you look hard enough. Its clean lines, comfortable feel, and powerful motor make it a decent saw for cutting, but clumsy depth and bevel adjustments give it at least some areas of improvement. This tool will do well in any handyman’s kit and some professionals may even find its lightweight styling is worth a second look.
We found the Hitachi G12SR3 4-1/2 inch 6 amp angle grinder to be an easy to use tool that should be at the top of any handyman’s short list. Price, performance and ease of use make this an easy pick for someone looking to grab a flexible tool that can be used in tile, metalwork or concrete applications.
