Masonry & Concrete Tool Reviews & Buying Guides

Concrete guys have their own way of doing things. This modernized art form is impressive to behold. Watch a mason do his work, and you’ll see something that comes from an age long passed. The two are very similar and yet so very different. Our concrete tool reviews and articles attempt to help these craftsmen identify the tools that help make their work easier. Our concrete tool reviews also bring to light which new products will work well to help tradesmen in these fields adhere to the latest standards. These tools are also getting safer to use. With new OSHA dust mitigation rules taking effect, the use of dust shrouds and HEPA vacuums is mandatory. Having tools that perform well with these accessories makes all the difference. Our concrete tool reviews take this into account, even as they test the latest and greatest tools for performance and durability.

Porter-Cable PCE201 Corded 4.3-amp Impact Driver Preview

Porter-Cable PCE201 4.3-amp Impact Driver Preview

Porter-Cable is addressing the problem of needing the power of a cordless impact drivers, but for extended-use applications. They launched the 1/4-inch Hex 4.3-Amp PCE201 specifically to give tradesmen an option in the workplace. This impact driver is designed for deck builders, steel roofing installers and other tradesmen who complete numerous fastening applications in challenging workplaces (but who have easy access to power).

Makita LXPH03 18V Cordless 1/2" Hammer Drill-Driver Preview

Makita LXPH03 18V Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill-Driver Preview

Makita formally announced its newest 18V hammer drill this week, the LXT-powered LXPH03 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill. The new LXPH03 puts out 750 in.lbs. of (max) torque, but it’s more compact and lightweight than the previous model. The new LXPH03 is also engineered for increased resistance to water and dust, though we don’t see an IP certification on the tool as of yet. On this new hammer drill, Makita used a proprietary 4-pole motor to up the torque and speed. The new driver/drill puts out up to 30,000 BPM and 2,000 RPM. The new all-metal planetary gear system is more efficient so the LXPH03 ends up being more compact as well. In fact, it measures just 8-7/8” long and weighs 5.1 lbs. with the battery.

Black & Decker 4V Max Gyro Cordless Screwdriver Review

Black & Decker Gyro 4V Max Cordless Screwdriver Review

It’s rare that I see a tool that catches me off guard and presents something truly “new” or innovative. With the Black & Decker Gyro, innovation is at its core. The question is whether or not the new gyroscopic features are helpful or a hindrance. One thing is for certain, however, you’ll get more “play” time with this tool in terms of its effects as a party favor of attention-grabber than you will from any other powered screwdriver. And you can really use it thanks to some solid and simple thinking on the part of Black & Decker’s engineers.

Makita LXRH011 Brushless 1" SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Preview

Makita LXRH011 Brushless 1-inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

Makita has one of the widest ranges of 18V cordless tools, so you’d think they might want to sit back and relax for a while… Apparently not, as the company has just announced a new 18V LXT lithium-ion Brushless 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer (model LXRH011). What’s more, it includes a HEPA Dust Xtraction Vacuum Attachment. The LXRH011 is Makita’s latest tool using their LXT Brushless Motor Technology. The new Brushless tools can increase runtime by up to 50% and can increase power and speed as well as they are more efficient.

DeWalt DCH213L2 20V Max SDS Rotary Hammer Review

DeWalt DCH213L2 20V Max SDS Rotary Hammer Review

I remember when the cordless hammer drill was the new tool every contractor and pro was talking about. It revolutionized how quickly you could get a job done, and the cordless aspect of bringing that kind of power to tasks like pre-drilling Tapcons or performing other tasks really altered the industry. But jobs like overhead drilling in reinforced concrete or repetitive drilling of dozens of 3/8″ or larger holes really takes its toll. For that, DeWalt just upped the ante with its DCH213L2 20V Max Rotary Hammer. Not only does the tool take advantage of the new 20V Max battery technology (which is really built from the ground up to communicate with the new 20V Max tools), it brings a whole lot more power and versatility to the work of concrete drilling and penetration.