Manufacturer: Black and Decker

Our Black and Decker tool reviews test to one purpose. We want to know which tools can help Pros and serious DIYers save money. When you don’t need a premium tool, often a basic product will do the trick. Unfortunately, Black and Decker often falls short when the going gets tough. Still, our aim is to understand which of their tools can hold up when called upon to perform common tasks. Black and Decker also has a great habit of bringing technologies to market before they migrate to the company’s other brands. A great example is the Black and Decker Gyro screwdriver. These Black and Decker tools preceded the DeWalt 8V Max gyroscopic screwdriver. Black and Decker Tool Reviews for Serious DIYers So while you may not think Black and Decker is pro-quality…well, it’s not. At least, it’s not typically pro-quality. But some Black and Decker tools exceed expectations. Those are the tools we get excited about.

Black & Decker 18V String Trimmer & Edger NST2018 Preview

Black and Decker 18V String Trimmer and Edger NST2018 Preview

For power tools, battery technology seems to be making inroads and moving an increasing number of products into the realm of emissions-free, cordless technology. Yard tools have been understandably delayed, since the bettery power and sustained use periods make it difficult to transition over to a reliable, rechargeable solution. Black & Decker is still at the forefront, however, and has released a new 18V String Trimmer & Edger (Model NST2018) that eliminates gas in favor of NiCd batteries. While clearly more convenient than a corded solution, the real question is whether or not the power and usability will cause anyone not paranoid about emissions to switch to the new technology. Our guess is that it may take a few more product iterations before mainstream users pick up these new cordless tools over their more traditional gas-powered counterparts.

Black & Decker 18V 22" Cordless Hedgehog Trimmer NHT518 Preview

Black and Decker Hedgehog Trimmer NHT518 Preview

Battery technology is creating a seemingly endless sea of new and innovative products that are quickly placing emissions-free, cordless technology into the hands of consumers, where previously gas was the only available option. Yard tools are tougher than your typical cordless power tool because they typically demand sustained power over longer periods of time than a drill gun or even a product like a finish nailer. Because of this, we look favorably on products such as the new 18V 22″ Cordless Hedgehog Hedge Trimmer that uses NiCd batteries in place of gas or dragging a cord. Those who are adamantly against adding emissions to the atmosphere will jump at any new cordless option, but the real test is whether a tool has mass market appeal. At this point, most products, including this one will likely take a few more years and product iterations before mainstream users dump their gas products for new cordless tools.

Black & Decker BDL170 BULLSEYE Auto-Leveling Laser Review

Black and Decker BDL170 Bullseye Auto-Leveling Laser

The Black & Decker BDL170 BULLSEYE Auto-Leveling Laser is just the ticket if you are trying to put up chair rail, install wallpaper borders or hang pictures in a row. What’s even better is that it comes with a temporary hands free mount so that you can stick it on a wall and then use both hands to make marks or mount what you need on the wall. The auto leveling feature makes it a cinch to use too.

Black and Decker Lids Off Jar Opener

Black and Decker Lids Off Jar Opener Preview

I’m almost apologetic about posting this first look on what is essentially a can opener, but sometimes a tool is so unbelievably bizarre that it warrants some attention. This is such a tool. Now, while opening jars is hardly exciting, how many times have you seen someone struggle with this common task that most of us take for granted. The Black & Decker Lids Off Jar Opener is designed, not for those who reach for the nearest hammer, knife, or screwdriver to ease stubborn lids, but those that simply can’t perform this simple, everyday task. And it does it for less than $20!

Black & Decker LPS7000 Compact Saw Review

Black and Decker LPS7000 Compact Saw Review

The new Black and Decker LPS7000 Compact Saw uses a built in 7V Lithium Ion battery, accepts standard T-shank blades and is ideal for quick cuts in many materials that are up to one inch in thickness. The battery is designed to hold a charge for up to 18 months, a feature that will help make this tool be always on the ready for when you need it.

Black and Decker TLD100 Thermal Leak Detector

Black and Decker TLD100 Thermal Leak Detector Review

The new Black & Decker TLD100 Energy Saver Series Thermal Leak Detector is a great way for consumers to help reduce their home’s energy consumption and save money by finding and fixing thermal leaks. Conserving energy and improving your home’s efficiency are what Black Decker is really focused on with their new easy to use Energy Saver Series of tools.

Black & Decker JS515 jigsaw

Black and Decker JS515 Jig Saw Review

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.