September 3, 2010
Craftsman Accutrac Laser Measuring Tool
One time we were at a fishing derby that was held at a golf course. The ponds were stocked with fish and everyone just stood around them with their lines in the water (excitement level: zero). So every time someone would catch a fish, all the other people around that pond would rush over to that area and cast their lines at the spot where the fish was caught. It was pretty strange to watch.
Anyway, that, in a nutshell is sort of how we view the tool industry (or, really any industry for that matter). The tool companies are the fishermen, the bait is the product, and you all are the fishys. Let's explain further; there's Bob the fisherman who baits his line with a nice, big worm (a.k.a. shiny new product). He throws it out there where it floats for a bit (on the shelves at Home Depot). Then along comes the fish (you) la-de-da-ing along and you're attracted to the product, you sniff around it, and decide it's worthy, and you take a bite (drop some cash for it). The fisherman is ecstatic and pulls you in (possibly gaining a long term product buyer). Now, at this point, the other fisherman look over and say to themselves, "what the hell did that guy just do? Whatever it is, we've got to do the same thing!" So they run over the same spot and find a similar worm and toss their lines in, hoping to get a similar fish.
Continue reading: "Craftsman Accutrac Laser Measuring Tool"
Read More in: Measuring & Marking
September 3, 2010
Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Jim E.)
In this installment of the ongoing Bosch Laser reader reviews, Jim E discusses the laser as well as what other items come in the box (or rather, what other items don't come in the box)...
Much like Richard K. from Florida, when I received my Bosch laser level courtesy of ToolSnob.com, I was surprised by the size of the carrying case, and thought to myself, "Well, that must be because, unlike other laser levels I've used, it comes with many helpful accessories, such as a tripod, laser receiver, etc." Unfortunately, that's not...well...the case. So let me get the negatives out of the way right away. The laser is kind of lonely in its large plastic caddy, as standard delivery does not include a tripod, laser viewing glasses (pretty essential in bright ambient light conditions), remote receiver for pulse mode, a smaller pouch to save tool shelf room, or (according to the manual) the very useful universal holder, which was included in the package sent to me for this review. If paying extra for some necessary accessories is not a problem, however, the Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level is a great tool.
Continue reading: "Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Jim E.)"
Read More in: Levels
September 3, 2010
DeWalt DWP611 Compact Router
DeWalt has just announced the release of a new compact router which appears to sit the fence between 'laminate trimmer' and 'router.' It's got that Bosch Colt vibe, but with a 1-1/4 hp motor it's more powerful (the Colt has 1hp) and with the plunge base, more versatile.
We really like the looks of this one. The Colt has been our go-to router for years. As a day to-day-carpenter, there is rarely a need for a full-sized router. We're usually just doing a sill bullnose or a casing bead, nothing too big. So looking over the press release, there are a few things that stand out as features that set this one apart from the competition. The first is an LED set-up that illuminates the workpiece. We scoffed at LEDs when they first started showing up on drills, but now we're full-on Kool-Aid drinkers on the things. The second feature is the plunge base. Having the plunge ability on a small router is a great idea and this seems to be a first for that.
The fixed base model is going to retail for about $140 which is $25 more than the similar Colt kit. The full kit with the plunge base will go for $200.
The press release is after the jump...
Continue reading: "DeWalt DWP611 Compact Router"
Read More in: Power Tools | Routers
September 2, 2010
Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Kimber Janney)
...Here we go with number three of the Bosch reader reviews. This is a good one and directly compares the Bosch to a DeWalt rotating laser and a David White builder's level. Also, make sure to check out the link to the Janney's construction company at the end. He's got a cool portfolio (as well as a very cool camera - click on the pic to enlarge).
The first thing that struck me as I un-boxed this tool, was how compact the case was compared to the small suitcase that our houses our Dewalt rotating laser level. The GLL2-80 itself is very compact, 2 inches thick and less than 6 inches square; and very light as well.
I loaded the batteries, placed it on a counter and switched it on and into the self-leveling operation. Immediately, a constant red line marked the perimeter of our 1000 square foot main level (open floor plan). This continuous red beam was so different from the rotating laser, so much calmer; I couldn't help smiling. My six year old just said, "That's awesome."
Continue reading: "Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Kimber Janney)"
Read More in: Levels
September 2, 2010
International Woodworker's Fair Coverage at Woodworker's Journal
We just discovered that Chris Marshall from Woodworker's Journal was at the IWF this year and he brought a video camera. Jay from CopTool picked out the non-uber-woodworkery videos and posted them up, with some commentary, here. If you're interested in the full compliment of videos in all of their clamping, dovetailing, and biscuit joining glory, you should head directly over to Woodworker's Journal IWF page. Here's a video on the Porter-Cable pocket hole system (discussed here) that should whet the appetite...
By the way, we've spent some time hanging out with Chris Marshall and not only is he a great writer and extremely knowledgeable, but he's a really great guy as well. It's worth following him over at WJ.
Read More in: Guides | Jigs | Promotions
September 2, 2010
Milwaukee Red Lithium
Remember that whole thing about us going to Milwaukee earlier in the year and the part about, 'there are things we saw that we legally can't talk about until Milwaukee tells us we can?" Well, we just got word that the embargo has been lifted and that we can finally spill the beans about their new Red Lithium battery.
Q. So what does the battery offer?
A. More.
Q. More what?
A. More.
Q. More?
A. More.
More everything. More run time (up to 40% more according to Milwaukee). More speed (20%). More torque (20%). More charges (50%). And more durability in extreme conditions (operable at 0F).
We saw this battery in action and it's no joke. Particularly impressive to us was when they started pulling tools out of the freezer to show off its cold-weather abilities. Living in the northern part of the country, we run into the lithium-ion vs. winter problem a lot, and this new battery was a clear winner in this department.
Red Lithium is ready to go for the M12 and M18 platforms so in the next few months Milwaukee will be releasing 8 new tools which will come with the Red Lithium battery (the ones we saw at the Symposium) and from that point on all of their tools will transition to the upgrade. We recall being told that the new battery will not effect the price point of the tools. Also the battery will be available as a stand-alone so you can upgrade your existing Milwaukee tools.
We really like the theory behind this move. Why bother tinker around with individual tools making them better, when you can just improve the fuel system and thus upgrade your entire line in one sword swipe? Pretty crafty and a definite bonus to your end user.
Milwaukee tools at Amazon
Press release with more information on the battery is after the jump...
Continue reading: "Milwaukee Red Lithium"
Read More in: Cordless | Lithium-Ion | Power Tool Accessories
September 1, 2010
August 2010 Monthly Roundup for Tool Snob
Other than deal with the oppressive heat, we did quite a bit of Tool Snobbin' this August. So if you're looking for some extreme cold weather gear, we've got that covered. If you're looking for some interesting saws, we've got that covered too. Or maybe you just want to watch a video of a robot in action...
We're also in the process of giving away a Duo-Fast Coil Siding Nailer, so if you're interested, go here for details. In other contest news, the Bosch Dual Plane Line Laser reader reviews are dribbling in and you'll be seeing us post more of them in the days to come.
August's Tool of the Month is the Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver, because it's just so damn nice. It's great to see such an evolved version of a standard, old-as-the-hills tool.
We already have a handful of reviews half-written for September so keep an eye out.
Tool of the Month
All Reviews
Air Tools
Benches, Stands, and Storage
Clothing
Cordless
Distractions
Fasteners
Glues and Adhesives
Hand Tools
How-To
Jigs
Lawn/Garden
Levels
Lithium-Ion
Metalworking and Welding
Monthly Roundup
Painting
Power Tools
Promotions
Safety
Sharpening
Read More in: Monthly Roundup
Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Adam B.)
...and here's the second of our Bosch Laser Level reviews. This time around, Reader Adam B. discovers a few ups and downs with the tool (mostly ups)...
It wasn't terribly long ago that a crafty engineer thought, "I can build tools with frickin' laser beams!" Since then, there have been a plethora of tools ranging from useless (laser guided scissors, anyone?) to "How did we ever manage without these things?" Laser levels are a shining example of the latter. I have used a number of them myself, ranging from $15 "Is my picture straight" levels to Hilti cross-hair and rotary levels. Such levels have proved indispensible on job sites, particularly when restoring homes built over one hundred years ago. Thus, I was very excited to find a shiny Bosch GLL-80 sitting on my doorstep.
Continue reading: "Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Adam B.)"
Read More in: Levels
August 31, 2010
Porter-Cable QUIKJIG Pocket Hole Joinery System
We've been a little surprised at Kreg's domination of the pocket hole marketplace. There are a few other models out there, but none from any of the big names and none which have gained a whole lot of traction with a wide audience (like the Kreg). We always assumed that there was some kind of patent thing going on, a la Fein. But here comes Porter-Cable with a really interesting looking system that looks like it should give the reigning champ a few good rounds in the ring.
In a nutshell (help, help, I'm in a nutshell!), pocket hole jigs create low angled, pre-drilled holes which allow for accurate and consistent 'toe-screwing.' That's really it. They're great for shelves, cabinet boxes, face-frames, etc. We've got the Kreg Master Kit and it really makes for a nice, tight (glue-free!) assembly. So on to the Porter-Cable...
One thing for certain is that, compared to the Kreg, this one looks com-pli-cated. It sort of looks like a cross between a microscope and a Pixar robot. But as it turns out, this added intensity is intended to make things easier. Unlike the Kreg, the Porter-Cable automatically sets the drilling angle based on the thickness of the wood. It's a clever idea and takes away the fussiness of having to deal with the knurled set screw of the Kreg. From the looks of it, the Porter-Cable is going to be quite a bit heavier (it's all metal...a good thing), but they were smart and made the foot plate 1-1/2" thick, so you can use a 2x4 to support your workpiece.
The QUIKJIG is going to be available later this year (September) and will have a retail of around $230. The price is definitely more than the Kreg (K3 Master Kit $140 at Amazon), but the 'auto-angle' aspect of the Porter-Cable might be enough to justify the added cost.
Press release after the jump...
Continue reading: "Porter-Cable QUIKJIG Pocket Hole Joinery System"
Read More in: Benches, Stands, and Storage | Fasteners | Hand Tools | Jigs
Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Richard K.)
If you recall, a bit ago we ran a contest where we gave out ten new Bosch Dual Plane Line Lasers to chosen readers so that they could review them for the site (our original review is here). We encouraged them to be hard on the tools and to be nothing, if not honest in their assessment. The selected readers ranged from tradesmen to DIYers. We asked that they also rate the laser on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being best). Here is the first review...
__________________
I received the Bosch Laser Level the other day as promised by those kind hearted souls of Toolsnob.com. The case was extremely big and bulky for such a small device, but once I opened it, I was told my eyes lit up as though it was my favorite holiday. By the way my favorite holiday is any day I get to open free tools. I played around with the Laser Level for a few hours. It has a very rugged design and the built in alarm definitely lets you know when you're not holding it level. Around the house it worked perfectly. It easily demonstrated how badly my picture hanging ability really is, but out in the field is a whole different story.
Continue reading: "Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level - Reader Review (Richard K.)"
Read More in: Levels
August 30, 2010
Vote for the Ugliest Room
A couple weeks ago, we told you about the Sears Ugliest Room Contest. Well, the top ten finalists have been chosen and they're ready for your votes.
We looked them over and the photo you see is the one we voted for. A lot of the others just need a paint job and a little redecorating. No big deal on those. One guy even says that his room is ugly in part because the carpet is gone but the tack strips are still there. Um...hello...take a pry bar and pry them up. It takes about 3 minutes and your laziness immediately excludes you from the $3,500 makeover prize.
But the one we like is just straight-up ugly. And It's the kind of outdated ugly that you need a little money to fix. It's also the kitchen, which makes things ten times worse. An ugly bathroom can be ignored for at least a few years (we should know), but an ugly kitchen makes you feel like a loser. Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning, slightly hung over and you've got to go make coffee in this kitchen. Brutal. This species of ugly can only be ripped out and replaced, Mike Holmes style.
Vote for your favorite, or rather, least favorite here.
Read More in: Distractions | Promotions
Miller Spectrum 875 Auto-Line Plasma Cutter
Watching a plasma cutter in action is an impressive thing. We first saw one on a job site where we had to cut away a section of 1/4" stainless steel plate. It was far too big of a job for a recip saw and we couldn't get a band saw in the cramped conditions (and who knows if that would have even worked), so we called on the metal guys and their plasma cutter. The process took about 1/2 of a day, 7/8 of which consisted of the electrician wiring a plug, and everyone else setting up protection so nothing would catch on fire.
The actual work was done in about 15 minutes of light, sparks, and dropping blobs of hot metal. The ease with which the cutter diced the stainless was pretty intense and left us in awe of these 'anti-welders.'
So it was cool to hear that Miller has just released a new plasma cutter that makes the whole portability factor a whole lot easier. it's got a feature called Auto-Line which means it can run on a variety of input voltages without compromising the cutting quality. It can also handle changes in power input (say if it's running off a generator). This translates into not needing an electrician and a much quicker set-up. Not to mention the wider variety of situations it can handle.
The Spectrum weighs about 55 lbs so it's nice and portable. It's capable of cutting metal up to 1-1/4" thick, so it should be able to handle most jobsite issues.
The Miller costs about $1950 and it's at Amazon
The press release with more information is after the jump.
Continue reading: "Miller Spectrum 875 Auto-Line Plasma Cutter"
Read More in: Metalworking and Welding
August 29, 2010
Um...yeah...maybe you didn't hear us...*ahem*...Win a Free Siding Gun from Tool Snob
Maybe it's the end of summer and you're all running around getting pencils and Trapper Keepers for the kids, or maybe you're on that final week of vacation time, but either way, a lot of you seemed to have missed the whole thing about us giving away a Duo-Fast Siding Gun.
So far, one week in, we've gotten a staggering five (5) entries. Now, we've got our analytics program and know for sure that a little more than five people visit the site on a daily basis, so we'd like you to stop for a second and think about that Christmas feeling that you'd get if a box with a free siding gun showed up at your doorstep.
OK, now why don't you revisit our post which describes how to enter the contest. It's easy and it's here.
Read More in: Promotions
August 26, 2010
Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver - Review
A while back we got an email from a reader who was so enthusiastic (or possibly coked up) over a tool that we felt compelled to contact the manufacturer for more information. The tool is the MegaPro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver and this is what reader David had to say:
Continue reading: "Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver - Review"
Read More in: All Reviews | Hand Tools
August 25, 2010
ROBO-UNIT Portable Storage
UNITS (Unique, No-Hassle, Individual, Transportable, Storage), a S.C.-based company similar to PODS, has just introduced the use of UNITS-moving robots. While these robots are no match for Husqvarna's Demolition Robot, they're still pretty cool.
The remote control UNITS movers are ideal for placing the storage boxes on little city streets, in tight driveways, or any other place where a full-sized truck is going to have some problems.
It's wild to watch this thing in action. It's like those little forklifts that come with lumber trucks, minus the fat, grumpy driver.
To get more information on UNITS, including locations, check out their website: unitsstorage.com. The press release on the arrival of our UNITS-moving robot masters is after the jump.
Continue reading: "ROBO-UNIT Portable Storage"
Read More in: Benches, Stands, and Storage | Distractions
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Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver - Review
