CopTool - Power Tool Reviews & News Blog

Woodworking Show – Columbus, Oh This Weekend Feb 3-5

2012-02-02T14:53:43Z

The woodworking show travels around the country each winter and has become a very popular destination for live educational seminars with some of the bigger names in woodworking. It has also become synonymous with some really great deals. Ohio Power Tool will again be at the show with Bosch, Rotozip and Dremel featuring some of the most aggressive deals we have honestly ever seen. No joke, not a sales pitch, they are weird.

On top of the Ohio Power Tool already low internet prices the show also brings instant rebates on most woodworking related tools ranging from $10-75 off instantly. For accessories the instant savings is $5 off for every $30 spent at the show. In addition several “Door Buster” tools have been selected with even better deals, for the Columbus Show there will be a limited number of each of these: 12v drill/driver PS31-2A $85 – 18v drill & impact kit CLPK232-181 $175 + Mail-in Rebate for Free 3^rd fatpack battery or cordless jigsaw – Variable Speed Colt Router PR20EVSK $89 – Oscillating Tool Kit MX25EK-33 $129 – Router Combo Kit MRC23EVSK $259.

]]>

February also brings an amazing in-store (or show) promo Mail-In Rebate on Bosch 18V Combo Kits including an option for a FREE 18v Grinder CAG180B, 18V Jigsaw JSH180B or 18V HC FatPack Battery BAT619G!

On top of all that for the first quarter Bosch System Specialist (BSS) locations are offering your choice of a FREE tool instantly: 18v Drill Kit DDS181-02 – Line Laser GLL2-40 – 12v Combo Kit CLPK22-120 with any Bosch or Rotozip purchase over $500. The only stipulation is that at least $100 of that is in accessories and only 1 tool per order. Again this is an instant deal so you are walking out the door with this one.

Add all these deals together and it’s not hard to figure out how to come up with some serious savings! Check out the Ohio Power Tool Woodworking Show Flyer here to better layout all these deals and sorry none of these deals are available online.

There will also be Bosch Company guys in the booth doing hands on demos for all the new Bosch, Dremel & Rotozip Tools. Additionally Jim Heavey from Wood Magazine will be holding educational seminars right next to the booth and he will also be using many of the latest Bosch Tools!

One of the other feature presenters exclusive to the Columbus show will be our good friends at the Idea Foundry who will be providing live demos on a wide range of different things including: blacksmithing, metal casting, CNC shopbot, lasercutting, makerbot, and other topics not necessarily woodworking related. Although we have to say the woodworking shop is really coming together over there, more info on that to come soon!

DeWalt Launches New SDS Plus Drop-In Tool & Dust System

2012-02-01T14:04:19Z

We recently saw DeWalt’s new HEPA vacuum and some of their new concrete attachments at the STAFDA trade show last November. Among those attachments was a pretty innovative dust collection unit for drilling which is why we were pleasantly surprised to see this new drill attachment.

There have been several new accessories designed to better improve the performance of drop-in anchors. Bosch launched the Stop Bit last summer which is designed to provide the perfect drill depth for setting each size drop-in (1/4", 3/8", 1/2"). They do a terrific job but serve only the one function and don’t address dust collection. Powers Fasteners have also created a Smart Bit which is very similar to the Bosch but works in conjunction with their Smart Setting Tool to more securely hammer the bits into place. They have also redesigned their Smart Drop-in system to visually indicate when the anchor has been set properly which will work with any of the Bosch, DeWalt or Powers systems. Clearly Drop-In Anchors are on the minds of many manufacturers.

]]> Where the new DeWalt System seems to have several advantages is that with the adjustable depth setting tool you can use standard size SDS-Plus bits. This means you are not limited to just setting drop-in anchors, which could be a big plus for some. Also the dust and debris created from drilling these holes is not that significant but when drilling overhead can certainly cause the user frustration as the debris will go right in their face & eyes. Using a full size vacuum may be over kill and certainly if you are setting anchors up on scaffolding not the most convenient solution. For more details read the full press release below and check out more pictures in this Facebook Album.

TOWSON, Md. – Today, DEWALT announces the launch of the Adjustable Depth Setter (DWA5537DS) and Dust Collector (DWA500DC), which when used together serve as DEWALT’s proprietary Depth Control and Dust System. Designed specifically for use with the SDS Plus drill bits from DEWALT, the system is ideal for professionals in the mechanical, electrical and plumbing fields. The most frequent application of this system is for installing drop-in anchors, which are used to hold threaded rod for hanging pipes, conduit and heavy loads.

“During our research in the field, many professionals voiced frustration around the complexities of performing overhead applications, including the inability to control the drilling depth, exposure to excessive amounts of dust, and issues with hitting rebar or post tension cable,” said Maurice LaPointe, Product Manager, DEWALT. “Our new proprietary system, when combined with the SDS Plus drill bits, provides accurate depth stop and dust control with any common drop-in anchor installations. This allows for less downtime for the professional.”

The DWA5537DS Adjustable Depth Setter is designed exclusively for use with DEWALT’s 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch SDS Plus drill bits. The DWA5537DS allows for controlled drilling depth, and provides accurate depth stop for setting the most commonly used drop-in anchors (1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch), providing ease of use for professionals tasked with some of the most difficult overhead-drilling jobs.

To help prevent dust from pouring into a professional’s eyes and face while drilling overhead, the DWA500DC Dust Collection System flushes tightly against the application material, creating a collection area for dust and debris. The DWA500DC fits over the DWA5537DS sleeve to minimize dust, and helps to create a clean workspace. Because DEWALT’s new Dust Collection System is manufactured from flexible material, it allows professionals to easily view drilling spots while performing various applications.

The DWA5537DS Adjustable Depth Setter and DWA500DC Dust Collector will be available in February 2012 anywhere DEWALT Accessories are sold. The DWA5537DS will come with a 1/2-inch SOLID ROCK CARBIDE™ SDS Plus Drill Bit (DW5537) and retail for $39.95. The DWA500DC will be sold separately and retail for $19.95, but must be used in conjunction with the DWA5537DS.

A Water Powered Jet Pack - The Dolphinator Flyboard

2012-01-30T15:47:35Z

Sometimes you wake up in the morning the birds are singing, sun is shining, you catch all the traffic lights, everything is going great and you think how could the day get any better then you check your morning news feed to find “The Dolphinator” Flyboard in this BBC article! Please put us on the very top of the waitlist!

]]>

Bosch Unveils New Tools & Accessories - World of Concrete 2012

2012-01-26T16:04:21Z

Well known around the world for their high quality rotary hammers, Bosch is serious when it comes to all their concrete tool and accessories. The 2012 show is not exception with full outdoor hands on set up which allows spectators to go through the full process or concrete manipulation from form to finish. Stations include using tools to find rebar, cut, grind, break up and anchor in concrete.

]]> New Tools

One of the most popular new concrete tools, actually on sale now, is the new Bosch Bulldog Extreme RH228VC (coptool post). These D-handle SDS-Plus rotary hammers produce the best in class 2.4 ft.lbs. or enough to easily drive up to 1-1/8” bit or handle any light chipping. Bosch also unveiled a new measuring tool GLM50 which will be similar to the GLM80 (coptool post) including the angled height measuring features but will be more compact and will sell at a more competitive price point. Their very popular AirSweep Wet/Dry Vac 3931A-PB ($587, Ohio Power Tool) will be upgrading their filtration system and will also be available very soon as a HEPA version 3931A-PBH.

At the show Bosch also announced 2 new larger rotary hammers planned for summer 2012 launch. The Bosch DH1020VC will be a mid-sized demolition hammer which will produce an impressive 20+ ft lbs torque with under 24 lbs total weight (best power to weight) the new hammer will also have a best in class >8m/s rating on vibration control. The second hammer planned is the RH850VC 1-3/4” SDS-MAX hammer which will again be class leading for impact force at 12+ ft lbs as well as excellent vibration control >10m/s achieved from the handle and internal components.

New Accessories

The full catalog of Bosch SDS-Plus drill bits will be getting a name change to correlate with their popular Bulldog SDS-Plus hammer drills. The current S4L Carbide SDS-Plus bits will become "Bulldog" SDS-Plus while the X5L Full Head Carbide SDS-Plus Bits will become "Bulldog Xtreme" SDS-Plus Bits. The part you will probably care about most however is the suggested retail price for the Full Head carbide “Bulldog Xtreme” will be at the current S4L levels with the carbide insert bits “Bulldog” will see a price even lower than their already competitive prices. The push will be really to convert many users to the Full Head carbide which is really a much better bit that can handle drilling strait through rebar, here is our original post on the X5L SDS-Plus bits from 2009.

At the show Bosch also unveiled new Diamond Cup Wheels in 4”, 4.5” & 7” to accompany their existing line of 5” cup wheels. Bosch is also redoing their line of SDS-Plus, Spline and SDS-MAX carbide core bits by going to a 2 part system which will lower costs for heavy users and with new tooth design help speed up drilling. We expect the new accessories to hit stores over the next few months.

If you have any questions about any Bosch Tools give the pros at Ohio Power Tool a call 800-242-4424.

World of Concrete 2012 Las Vegas, NV – January 24–27

2012-01-23T22:44:57Z

The World of Concrete show is one of the largest annual trade shows that hits Las Vegas each year and it is quite a site to see. Home to some very special events including the SpecMix Brickyard 500 brick laying championships, heavy equipment racing, as well as some amazing talent in the decorative concrete competitions (see WOC 2010 album). We are hoping to keep up with some innovative new products that are getting launched at this year’s event over the next week. Check back soon! Also check out twitter @WorldofConcrete #WOC2012 #WorldConcrete #WorldofConcrete ... apparently 60,000 people can't agree on a hash tag.

DeWalt Universal Fit Miter Saw Stand DWX726

2012-01-20T22:04:40Z

There are plenty of miter saw stands out there and if you are looking for a new saw it’s easy to match it up. If you already have a good miter saw however how do you make sure it’s going to fit a new stand. What about if you want to put a different machine on the stand, say a planer or router table? The DeWalt Miter Saw Stand DWX726 solves these problems by allowing for complete customized positioning both on the X & Y axis with 6 positioning spots to bolt down.

]]> Out of the box there was some assembly required but not overly complicated. We really liked the outriggers which are adjustable in length and height. Nice wide rolled and held in place very well even after a week or more without use. We mounted a DeWalt Miter Saw to the stand very easily and lined up just how we wanted it to balance the weight and provide proper cutting area. The stand also has very nice hydraulics on it which makes setting it up and taking it down very simple.

The part we appreciated the most was of course the universal fit aspect. Even if you have an old junker miter saw this will fit great and then when you go to upgrade down the road you can have your choice of perhaps a Dewalt DWS780 or Bosch GCM12SD or Makita LS1016 or something super new that isn’t even out yet. It doesn’t matter you know it will still work and that is important when you are going to plop down two hundred bucks, which is the target price for this stand.

See 28 more pictures in this Coptool Facebook Album.

Diamond Products 14” SLR Fast-Cut Saw 03853 with Free Blade

2012-01-19T20:31:20Z

The new Diamond Products Cut Core 14” SLR Cut-Off saw 03853 is completely redesigned from the ground up. Tested to complete and out perform against the most common models of Husqvarna/Partner K760 and Stihl TS420 Cut-Off saws. The new Diamond Products SLR saw has a lot to prove if it plans of converting any of their faithful users. Launching officially at next week’s World of Concrete in Las Vegas thousands of professionals will have their opportunity to test it out and see for themselves.

]]> The new saw receives many upgrades including better cooling to reduce cylinder temps, improved fuel consumption, better tuning for lower maintenance intervals, better dampening for lower vibration, 5 stage filtration to meet all environments regulations (EUII & EPAIII), decompression valve to reduce 70% start up force and the best power to weight ratio in the class. All in all this new saw is extremely competitive in the market and carries the Diamond Products name, one of the leaders in diamond blade manufacturing.

2012 World of Concrete Special – To properly launch this new cut-off saw to the world Diamond Products has teamed up with Ohio Power Tool to offer the 03853 model for a very aggressive $899 price and including a FREE 14” Standard Gold Blade 57715 ($188 value) with each new saw, while supplies last! For additional info on these SLR saws, this promotion or any general questions on concrete cutting call the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424.

Milwaukee 30 Degree Pivot Head Knuckle Bit Holder 48-32-2301

2012-01-18T14:20:55Z

When we first got a look at this new 30 degree pivoting head bit holder 48-32-2301 ($21, Ohio Power Tool) we have to admit we were not overly excited. It is a very simple design and only has the single offset position unlike the Milwaukee Right Angle attachment 48-22-8510 ($49, Ohio Power Tool) which does all kinds of funky positioning.

]]>

After testing the “Knuckle” out for a while however we changed our tune. It is a pretty compact gizmo and will function just like a regular bit holder which pretty much never leaves our impact driver. When going into tight spaces or against a wall we just pop the angle in and it gives plenty of clearance. In a very short time this bit holder has become an essential part of the package and it feels a little limiting now not using it.

This unit is also tested to handle the extreme forces of an impact driver and comes with 10 ShockWave impact bits as well. We definitely recommend using an impact rated bit with any impact drivers no matter what the brand traditional bits simply are not rated to handle the force these tools can produce. Of all the different brands out there that we have tested we would definitely consider the Milwaukee ShockWave Driver Bits & Hex Drills some of the best.

Voltec 180 LED Cordless Work Light 08-00703 Review

2012-01-12T23:55:16Z

We are all familiar with the 500w halogen work lights around that are the standard in lighting any unfinished space. These things are cheap, a heavy duty grade version goes for around $12 at Ohio Power Tool and certainly they can drop well below that for the lower quality units. The problem is these things get knocked around, become wobbly and quickly unsafe. Not to mention the flaming hot bulb inside that can start a fire within seconds of contact to anything flammable. Couple that with the bulbs that break if you sneeze too hard around them and it seems to be a pretty inefficient light source but cheap no question so we put up with it. The new Voltec 180 LED Worklight 08-00703 ($79, Ohio Power Tool) does offer some serious improvements over the status quo.

]]> The LED lighting option has been threatening to take over for some time but the price just isn’t there yet for most applications. These lights do offer several serious advantages that make them the best alternative for sure. To start with they are cool to the touch so much less chance of starting a fire. LED lights are tough; if they drop no worries the bulbs will outlast the housing. Never need replaced... well at least not for like 20,000 hours. They also use much less energy which probably isn’t a big deal for temporary work lights unless you are talking about so much less energy it becomes feasible to run off a small battery for say 4 hours. This unit in fact does just that, which also explains the higher price.

Unfortunately we haven’t quite found the ultimate construction worklight because this unit does have some short comings. While it is very bright at 450 lumens it gets drowned out pretty quickly with the 500w halogen next to it. This cordless work light more closely resembles a 40-60w household bulb. Still if you are looking for a lot of light in a cordless unit this really is an awesome solution. Voltec also offers several heavy duty 16, 30 & 60 LED flashlights using the same rechargeable technology and have magnet bases for nice over the shoulder lighting.

While this isn’t the end all be all it is very exciting to see this kind of progress, with prices coming down on LED and batteries a 1000 LED cordless work light can’t be that far off.

DeWalt Heavy Duty Jobsite Saw Horse Work Stands DWX725

2012-01-06T23:14:19Z

As kids I always remember the handmade stackable saw horses we had in our garage that were built from a couple of 2x4s and scrap plywood. They weighed a ton, took up all kinds of space, were shaky as hell, had various types of paint on them and the tops had been run over a few hundred times with the circular saw. It is hard to imagine nowadays loading those in the truck every time you went to a jobsite. Fast forward a few years and the DeWalt DWX725 ($129, Amazon) could not be farther away from those old work stands.

]]> These new DeWalt work stands we have been using for several months are the very basic units, no miter stand or expanding legs which are also available. These units do however deliver in several big ways. First off each unit is rated for 1000lbs capacity, so very sturdy. They are also super mobile at only 15.4lbs each, lock together and have handles on the bottoms. For set up and break down the legs have an oversized latch which makes then very fast to pack up. In use there is almost no wiggle and the top plate is wide enough to support a sacrificial 2x4 if needed.

The only drawback we could see was the price which is certainly up several times more than a couple of 2x4s and some sawhorse brackets. That being said however these units do deliver in almost every other way possible strength, portability, storage space, convenience, speed and cool accessories. Add the miter saw brackets DW7231 ($33, Amazon) for instance and you’ve got one of the lightest weight portable saw stations around. All in all we are very happy with these units and for professionals or serious tool geeks these are definitely worth the investment, in our opinion.

Lincoln Grease Gun Digital Display PowerLuber 18V Lithium 1864

2012-01-05T14:11:19Z

For those responsible for maintaining large construction or farming equipment this gun may offer some very important benefits that will more than pay for itself. Over greasing a lube point can do more than just waste valuable grease. It can also damage seals, load bearings and create excessive heat that shortens a bearing’s operating life. The new Lincoln PowerLuber 1864 ($449, Ohio Power Tool) allows the user to monitor grease output for extended equipment life while saving lubricant and maximizing run time.

]]> ST. LOUIS, Lincoln has introduced its new 18-Volt, Lithium-Ion PowerLuber developed for maintenance professionals. The most advanced grease gun in its class, the 18-Volt PowerLuber features an LCD display that indicates grease dispensed, cartridge level, charge level and more.

Its 18-volt, high-amperage, lithium-ion battery provides superior run time, and its two-speed design delivers outstanding flow and pressure. For operator convenience, the grease gun’s LED lights up fittings when under equipment or in shaded areas.

The 18-Volt PowerLuber offers dual motor protection with its self-resetting thermocouple. The grease gun features a 36-inch hose with spring guard for maximum accessibility and comes in a heavy-duty carrying case.

The Lincoln 18v Lithium Kit 1864 includes two of the new 3.0Ah 1861 Lithium Ion batteries, charger and case. For more information on all the Lincoln cordless PowerLubers visit OhioPowerTool.com or call the professionals at 800-242-4424.

Another fun fact... President Lincoln was elected in the year 1864.

Hacking a Makita Table Saw – Tools of the Trade

2012-01-04T13:16:00Z

We spotted this article in the Tools of the Trade blog yesterday and we very intrigued about turning an old contractor’s table saw into a new fully functional stationary table saw. By taking the old table saw mechanism apart and repurposing it along with pouring a solid concrete countertop and several 28” drawer slides it really comes together nice and on a budget.

]]> woodgears.ca, dozens of other handmade shop machines and fun projects. Great projects in there and a lot of detail, don’t blame us when your whole afternoon is shot bouncing around the site, you were warned.

Blaklader Winter Wear Toughguy Pile Lined Jacket Review

2011-12-29T20:59:40Z

Some time ago we reviewed the Blaklader Bantam Work Pant and were very impressed with the quality and toughness that went into the production of those pants. Blaklader makes much more than pants however we were curious if the same attention to detail and high level of functionality went into their other product. They also offer a wide range of jackets and we recently had the opportunity to review the Toughguy Pile Lined Jacket ($109, Amazon) one of their warmest in the line.

]]> Durability

The 13oz cotton shell helps this jacket live up to the name Toughguy, the thick material will resist wear, cuts and provide protection from the elements. The zipper and buttons are big and heavy duty, easy to access even with gloves on. Of course the jackets carry the same life time guarantee on stitching that comes on their pants but most likely will never be needed. After a few weeks of wear the jacket has been broken in and is getting even more comfortable.

Functionality

Similar to the pants the jack is very well throughout with a professional in mind. Pockets include sleeve zipper pocket, pen holders, phone pocket, standard chest and side pockets. The cuffs and waist adjustments are buttons snaps so no nonsense and keep the jacket tight. The extended back was also another nice feature we very much appreciate as a taller guy (6’6” and XL fits us great).

Warmth

The very soft 11oz polyester pile lining of this jacket is easily our favorite feature. It’s funny that this jacket is named the Toughguy because while it is tough on the outside it is very soft on the inside. The lining is only a vest while the sleeves get a quilted lining (see above left). This keeps the body very warm but allows for better mobility and function for your arms when working. The pile lining goes all the way up the collar so when zipped all the way up it is very soft and warm on the neck.

All in all we really like this jacket and think it is a great value for the price. The jacket comes in 2 color options, black and navy blue (shown above). If you are looking for something even tougher or perhaps on the lighter side see the full list of Blaklader Jackets and vests here.

2 Days with a Milwaukee M12 Thermal Imaging Camera 2260-21

2011-12-21T21:03:21Z

We recently had a few days with this thermal imaging camera and learned a fair amount about its functionality and our own home in the process. We originally got to see the unit at Milwaukee’s headquarters (see original post here). Given a little more time with it the Milwaukee M12 2260-21 ($2500, Ohio Power Tool) really is an amazing piece of technology you need to get your hands on.

]]> A few things we noticed after having a little more time with it were that the thermal image and regular camera image aren’t the same size (in terms of cover the same area) when toggling between the two. It really isn’t a problem when you are actually using it because you are looking at the real thing but it is something to keep in mind for pictures and reporting later. It caused us a little confusion at first when we had downloaded them. Above you will see the duel captured images you get from a single trigger pull with the thermal image laid over the regular image (640x480 vs 160x120). Many other cameras don’t even have the regular camera function so we aren’t complaining just a heads up. The camera also burns through the M12 battery in about 15-20 minutes so not a bad idea to have a spare on hand if you are using this professionally.

This was a real eye opener, see the thermal image above (again overlaid to the real thing) of our bedroom and yes you are reading that correctly our windows are actually warmer than the old walls and not just the curtains this was the case all over. The walls are original brick + wood slat + plaster with zero additional insulation, pretty much means the walls are nearly as cold as the outside. Several years before we called this place home the windows had received a high quality upgrade, probably thinking that would help keep the place insulated and warmer. Clearly they did not have a camera like this one when they made that upgrade or they would have seen the real issue.

We managed to check out the whole house in a matter of about 15 minutes and it was a very educational trip. If you have an opportunity you should really borrow or rent one of these cameras and comb over your house to find and possible fix poor insulation spots or dangerous hot spots from bad wiring. It’s also simply fun to satisfy good old fashion curiosity... Is the dog possessed? Sure looks like it. With a few easy fixes and some additional insulation most people could save a fair amount on their energy bills. Check out Ohio Power Tool for all your Milwaukee Tool needs!

Dremel Multi-Max MM40 with Quick Lock Oscillating Tool

2011-12-19T22:43:04Z

The problem we were faced with was how to make a clean cut in a tight space on a desktop computer stand. The space was too small to fit a jig saw or reciprocating saw and needed to be a clean cut to sand down and touch up with paint. The solution came in the form of a Dremel MultiMax MM40 ($139 Ohio Power Tool) which would be able to make the cut and sand the piece down using only one tool.

]]>

We felt that this was the perfect opportunity to use the new Dremel Multi-Max MM40 in a true “real world” application. They didn’t want to go find a new computer station so we did some “post fabrication” on the existing one. Basically just cut the piece of wood off the darn thing so their oversized laptop would fit.

The Dremel Multi-Max MM40 comes equipped with a variable speed 2.5 amp motor. This packs quite an upgraded punch from earlier Multi-Max models. We also see the introduction of Dremel's patented Quick Lock System, their tool-less blade change solution which is pretty handy for us folks who always lose the pieces and parts to their tool kits.

This kit comes with several of the most popular blades and sanding pads. A few others you might also want to pickup are grinding rasp and a grout removing tool which are pretty popular. See the full Dremel Accessory list here.

For the Computer Desk Project

We started with the half moon blade, which is typically used in a multi purpose application for wood/drywall. While we felt it was a blade we had good control over the speed of cut was just not there.

Once we switched to the wood specific blade it started to rip. (See Video Above) The sanding pads were pretty effective and easy to switch with the Velcro backing. We hit it with a couple passes, starting with the larger grit then moving finer. For the final step we hit it with several coats of black Krylon spray paint and it came out very nice.

All in all the Dremel MM40 is probably our favorite oscillating tool on the market today, in this price range. Dremel continues to launch a wide range of new accessories which add to the products overall versatility. One biggest downfall of other newcomers, such as the Porter Cable PC250MTK, is the lack of available accessories or places to buy them. We really think the Quick Lock ™ tool-less quick change system does a great job of making this one of the most refined oscillating tools at any price point. If you are debating between this unit and the Dremel MM20 ($99, Ohio Power Tool) we would strongly suggest going with the MM40 for more power and ease of use.