Bosch Father’s Day Deals - Up To 20% Off Online Orders

2012-05-15T22:27:30Z

From now until June 23^rd you can take advantage of either $20 or $40 off Bosch Tool purchases Online through select “Gold Level” Bosch Dealers. Ohio Power Tool is one of these top level partners and this is the first online exclusive promotion we have seen from Bosch. While we have seen several in-store deals this online promotion is a great way to get Dad (or yourself) a Bosch Tool up to 20% off anywhere in the country.

The promotion is only good for orders placed online at Ohio Power Tool using one of these coupon codes at checkout. For orders containing Bosch products between $100-$199 use BOSCH20 for $20 off. Any orders containing Bosch products $200 and up use BOSCH40 for $40 off the total order. Visit the Bosch Tools page on Ohio Power Tool for more details.

]]>

NewerTech Power2U USB Wall Outlets are First UL Approved

2012-05-11T19:58:08Z

This is pretty cool. We just picked up several generic USB iPhone/iPad cables for like $1 each and made sure there was one for the car, work, on the Power Box with a few extras for around the house. This outlet makes sooo much sense to us and as other electronics providers all get on board our hope is we will see even more of these in hotels and public places. It is also the only UL approved device like this listed. See the full press release below for more info and Handyman Club comments on the product.

]]> Woodstock, IL — Newer Technology, Inc. (NewerTech®) http://www.newertech.com, a leading developer of Macintosh®, PC, iPod®, iPhone®, and iPad® performance upgrades and accessories, announced today its Power2U™ AC/USB Wall Outlet received the highly coveted Handyman Club of America Seal of Approval by earning a 92 percent approval rating after being installed and used by over 150 Handyman Club members.“A 92 percent member approval rating for the Power2U outlet is an excellent test result, and Newer Technology should be very proud their innovative product scored so well,” said Ross Tanner, Product Test Editor, HANDY magazine. “We couldn’t be more pleased that the Power2U was overwhelmingly approved and endorsed by Handyman Club of America members,” said Grant Dahlke, Brand Manager, Newer Technology, Inc.

“These testers are very hands-on and demand excellence from the products they choose for their home improvement projects. As such, the typical homeowner can buy the Power2U with full assurance they can install it and enjoy it hassle-free.”

Praised by Handyman Club Members
Complementing independent media review acclaim and awards, the test review of Power2U by more than 150 Handyman Club members resulted in high praise: “As a Master Electrician, I recommend it to anyone because it installs just like any other outlet. All my friends and family members want me to install these in their homes.” — Chris D., Keene, NH

“This product has the Cool Factor nailed down: super easy to install; can easily charge four devices at a time; convenience; value; Nerd Envy.” — Jonathan M., Bella Vista, AR “As a product design technician, I appreciate the amount of thought that went into designing this product. It’s durable; instructions were easy to understand; and my family no longer needs to fight over the computer to charge their devices.” — Dwayne B., Glencoe, MN Turns Walls into Charging Stations

Ideal for homes with users of multiple USB chargeable devices, the Power2U is available in four decorator colors to blend seamlessly into any residential wall as a standard power outlet. By incorporating two traditional three-prong AC wall sockets in addition to two USB 3.0/2.0/1.1 ports, the Power2U transforms an ordinary wall into a modern, centralized location for charging/powering up to four devices simultaneously.

18V Hammer Drill Showdown Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee

2012-05-10T13:16:55Z

We got the most current top 4 contenders in the cordless 18V category and pitted them head to head to see where they stacked up. Two with brushed motors, two brushless, all with their highest 3.0 amp/hour batteries brand new and fully charged. Since we are talking hammer drills our thought was let’s see how the hammer action works and drill lots and lots of ½” holes in concrete… a test we later regretted but good news, feeling is starting to return to our hands. We also wanted to test out the actual torque for each vs what they claim and get an in/lbs number on the Dewalt hammer drill, to see how they stack up. See all 46 pics in this Facebook Album.

]]> The Wrist Breaking Torque Test

To measure toque we had some help from the expert tool repair technicians at Ohio Power Tool who use their Skidmore torque tester. This actually measures “bolt tension in lbs” for impact wrenches, then we converted them all to in/lbs torque. Is this test laboratory perfect, probably not but they all did the same test so we feel the comparisons are going to hold true. Since hammer drills don’t work to build torque like impacts this also means we basically locked up each drill to get the number with small variations that occur as the drill is basically jerks out of your hand. We would like to give Kris a special thank you for putting his wrists on the line for tool science.

Each of the Bosch, Dewalt and Milwaukee all ended up consistently between 5500-6000 on each test of the Skidmore which roughly translates to 625 in/lbs to 685 in/lbs. At that torque this was not fun testing and with the variations between each test we were not able to declared any particular ranking order here like we had hoped. We had thought perhaps Dewalt might be hiding some lower performance numbers by not publishing their torque but perhaps they are on to something because nailing down the exact measurement (at least with this test) is neither safe nor easy.

The big surprise to us was how much lower the numbers on the Makita Brushless were. It made sense because in this group, the Makita looked like the kicker on a pro football team. We were still hoping for some big numbers out of the box for some reason (maybe just because it says brushless) but the Makita published number is only 400 in/lbs so perhaps this should not be a surprise. We were seeing roughly 370-380 in/lbs in our test. They do have another higher torque 18V LXT hammer drill (brush motor) that has been around for some time BHP454 ($276, Amazon) but this is the new brushless so we had to include it... for better or worse.

Performance & Battery Life in Concrete

If you are going to purchase a hammer drill the thought is of course, at some point you’ll have a need for drilling into concrete, if not buy a drill/driver. We used 4 identical ½” carbide hammer bits and went to town drilling holes as consistently as possible in 1 month old concrete. About 1.5 holes in we realized what a terrible idea this was. For overall performance in this challenge we felt there was a clear winner and a clear loser. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel really smoked it, drilling the fastest and lasting the longest. The Dewalt and Bosch both did pretty well but it was hard to pick a clear winner in the speed category. The Dewalt did however edge out the Bosch on battery life. On consecutive holes we did feel a little more heat off the Bosch but were getting pretty decent heat off both.

It was very noticeable when going side by side how both brushless tools hardly created any heat even when struggling. The lower torque of the Makita really was not well suited to handle the ½” holes in concrete, not only did it do the least holes overall but it took a really long time to do each. If we had done a different test that did not require the same amount of torque we probably would have gotten a chance to see the brushless motor shine a little more. Holes drilled - Makita 19, Milwaukee 34, Bosch 22, Dewalt 26

Comfort and Ease of Use

Comfort is clearly a very important consideration when selecting the right tool. Power tools are getting smaller, lighter and more comfortable with each new iteration. Makita clearly made a decision with their new brushless to focus on the comfortable lighter weight demanding user which makes up more of the everyday routine tasks. The smallest of the bunch and nearly a full 1 lb lighter this would clearly be the one we would grab if you were trying to precisely pre-drill holes for screws but definitely not from drilling ½” holes in concrete, it didn’t even have a side handle. We were also surprised that while the Milwaukee Fuel is shorter in length it actually weights slightly more than the Bosch. The Dewalt was the longest and heaviest of the bunch.

The Dollar and Sense

The Makita 18V LXT Brushless is probably the newest of the group to hit the street with the hammer drill LXPH05 ($319 est) not even available yet. The combo kit which also includes the new single speed brushless impact driver LXT239 ($379 est) is starting to pop up, which is how we got our hands on this unit. More on the new brushless impact from this kit to follow.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is also a brushless but clearly targeting the heavy duty pro user looking for high end torque. This model is the 2604-22 ($299, Ohio Power Tool) and as of now, is not available in any of the combo kits. There is also a limited time promotion going on with select Milwaukee retailers for a free M18 Red Lithium XC battery 48-11-1828 ($119, Ohio Power Tool) instantly with each purchase. See more info on that promo in our previous post here.

The Dewalt 20v Max (still an 18v) tools were not launched that long ago either but already are undergoing updates. Their brushless impact driver is already out in the market and we would expect a new brushless hammer drills out within a year. This hammer drill kit DCD985L2 ($275, Amazon) is not a bad price and part of the combo kit with an impact driver DCK290L2 ($305, Amazon) also pretty reasonable. The batteries in these kits are not the new ones which include the fuel gauge like you get with their brushless impact kits.

The Bosch 18V Brute Tough hammer drill is now the oldest of the 4 units (still launched less than a year ago) and is available as part of the CLPK221-181 ($308, Ohio Power Tool) kit with the impact driver. Strangely the hammer drill kit alone HDH181-01 ($329, Ohio Power Tool) is actually more than the combo because of current sale pricing. These kits do feature the new Bosch HC batteries which are rated for cold weather and include fuel gauges. Having seen this model take sledge hammer blows and a 500 ft fall from a helicopter we do feel pretty good about their overall dependability. The Bosch 18V tools also have a free battery promo but this time it’s a mail-in rebate for 2 slimpack batteries. See our previous post here on that deal, which runs until June 15^th, 2012.

Overall we like the deals that are currently available from both Milwaukee and Bosch, which make pretty compelling reasons to go those routes for the time being. With Dewalt’s pending updates to batteries and promising a brushless hammer drill at some point soon we might wait to see what that looks like. On the Makita the price seems pretty steep for the low performance in the high torque range. We are hoping these will come down a little one they are more common in stores and online.

The Verdicts

For the hammer drill challenge the Milwaukee M18 Fuel was the clear winner. There was no question it drill the holes faster and simply more of them. Between the Bosch and Dewalt it was close, possibly a slight advantage to the Bosch on speed but a few more holes with the Dewalt these were very close. The Makita felt out of place here however it did manage a respectable 19 holes but was just because that little brushless motor wouldn’t quite. Those were a very long 19 holes in the making; this task was not for this hammer drill.

Your Old Wilton Vise Could Win You $5000 or New C-Clamp

2012-05-08T18:12:17Z

LaVergne, TN - Wilton, North America’s leader in industrial vises, wants to hear your story about Wilton vises in its Holding Strong Vise Story Contest.

There are a lot of stories out there because Wilton has held strong on two main principles: staying true to their Made in USA heritage and manufacturing only the most durable workholding products on the market. This has been a fundamental philosophy of the brand since 1941, when Wilton invented the first 40S Machinist vise.

]]> “Our trademarked vise design has proven over the decades to be the most durable on the market,” said Henry Kao, Wilton’s Product Manager. “Take our innovation and couple it with over 70 years of quality manufacturing experience in the USA, and it is no wonder that we have been holding strong since 1941.”

Wilton vises have been known to be passed down generation after generation. In celebration of its USA heritage this year, Wilton is looking for the best Wilton vise stories and pictures.

Take Paul M. from Canton, OH, who acquired his Wilton vise as a youngster. It came from an employer that used hundreds of vises in its contract work. One day he was directed to a shelf loaded with vises and was told to pick one out to use in his garage. After his initial search he didn’t find what he wanted until he looked under a greasy rag and discovered “Old Iron.” “Believe me, she has served me well in the last 40 years.”

John H. of Kennesaw, GA uses his Wilton 9C vise every day in his gunsmithing business. He scavenged it in the late 1970’s from the rear bumper of a service truck used by heavy equipment mechanics. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it isn’t 50 years old by now. Those truck bodies were recycled over and over before they were retired. It still works great today!”

Vises have played an essential role in American manufacturing. Tell a story about your Wilton vise and include a picture of it to be eligible for the contest. Entrants may sign up at http://www.wiltonamericanmuscle.com/vise-stories/submit-your-story/

The winner of the best Wilton vise story and image will receive $5,000 worth of Wilton merchandise. All qualified entrants will receive a free Wilton Made in America C-clamp ($84 value). Entrants must be age 21 or older to enter and no purchase is necessary. The sweepstakes closes, September 14, 2012.

Makita 1-1/4HP Compact Router Kit RT0700CX3 Review

2012-05-04T13:25:08Z

First off we would not consider ourselves serious woodworkers, being friends/colleagues with many whom we would consider at least serious hobbyists we have an appreciation for the depths of capabilities in the world of routers. Our router competencies are somewhat limited to giving projects round edges, material removal and some basic joinery. This does perhaps give us a perspective a little closer to many of the purchaser of this new Makita Compact Router Kit RT0700CX3 ($234, Amazon) which may be their first router purchase.

This kit comes with a lot of really cool router accessories including trim guide, (2) dust nozzles, (2) collects, fix base, plunge base, tilt base and even an offset base. All this fits nicely into the huge Teal Makita bag that looks like it might double as a beach cooler for a case of beer. There are several compartments and a few pockets on the inside of the lid but we do wish there was some kind of case to store all the loose odds and ends that come with this kit.

]]> After we tested out all the options we found this really great European produced video that does an excellent job of going in deep to explain all the aspects of the kit, we definitely recommend watching this if you are considering this compact router. Then just for kicks watch the 1 minute US version below it with the DJ voice over and rock music background which tells you very little about the product. It is sad that the European video is so much more useful and so very simple.

European Version 7:51

US Version 1:01

Against the Competition

There are not too many competitors in the compact router market however they are definitely becoming more popular. The most notable would be the original Bosch Colt PR20EVSK ($89, Ohio Power Tool) and the more recent Dewalt/Porter Cable (previous post) units which were the first compacts to include a plunge base. The main difference between the Dewalt and Porter Cable version is that the Dewalt is variable speed and has a LED light. The Makita kit definitely has the most options out of the box and is a variable speed but no LED light.

On the plunge base we definitely liked the Makita the best, with 3 versions in front of us the Bosch clearly seemed like the most basic. The Porter Cable twist base system is honestly a little awkward but probably becomes second nature if you used it frequently. This twist style does allow for easier fine adjusting vs the Makita which requires the clamp to release then retighten for any adjustments. The downfall of the Dewalt/Porter Cable twist is that it is too easy to accidentally make fine adjustments while working.

On the plunge base it was very close call between the Makita and Porter Cable, we felt both options were very nice. One major difference in use was that the Makita plungers freely and the lock has to be engaged vs the Porter Cable is locked and the switch has to be engaged to move. The Makita does come with all the dust collection attachments for both fixed and plunge which is definitely a big plus. See 35 more of the comparison photos in this Facebook photo album.

One attachment we really wish we had ahead of the offset router base was a basic router table. Makita doesn’t make one but if you are interested Rockler does and it’s pretty inexpensive Compact Router Table ($62, Amazon). Watch Chris Marshall from the Woodworkers Journal go over some of the features in the video below.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Free Battery Deal & New Impact Drivers

2012-05-02T14:53:52Z

The New Milwaukee Fuel Brushless system has now been in the market place for a short time and already having tremendous success. These new drills in combination with the RedLithium battery platform are reportedly leading to some of the longest runtimes of any tool, even against higher voltage 28 volt and 36 volt tools. Ohio Power Tool will be providing a FREE M18 Battery instantly with the purchase of any of the new M18 FUEL tools while limited supplies last.

M18 Fuel Drill/Driver 2603-22 ($279, Ohio Power Tool) and Hammer Drill/Driver 2604-22 ($299, Ohio Power Tool) will each come with a FREE M18 XC battery ($119 value). These tools are also offered from Milwaukee as 2603-22CT and 2604-22CT kits which includes the same tool but (2) compact batteries. We would strongly advise using the XC batteries with these tools! When used with the compact M18 batteries these tools drop from 725 in-lbs torque to 650 in-lbs torque because the smaller battery does not have the juice to power the brushless motor properly. These kits were clearly a result of bowing down to the large box stores that demand a price point and are far less concerned with tool performance. We’d compare this to buying a Porsche and then putting 87 octane gas in it and wonder why it doesn’t perform like you’d hoped. As a tool lover it's just painful to watch.

]]>

M18 Fuel Impact Driver has also been announced for a targeted June launch and will come as kit with (2) XC batteries 2653-22 ($299, Ohio Power Tool) or (2) compact batteries 2653-22CT ($229, Ohio Power Tool). These kits will also be shipped with a FREE 3rd battery if ordered on the Pre-Sale, Free XC with 2653-22 and Free CT battery with 2653-22CT. This new Brushless impact will feature a 3 speed/torque control for multiple applications. The impact tool, unlike the drills, will function the same (power output) with both compact (CT) battery or High Capacity (XC) battery. We have not seem or used this tool but judging by how long our current impact tool lasts without Brushless Fuel technology either battery will probably last all day.

All the M18 FUEL kits also come with the M12/M18 combo charger which for Milwaukee fans is a huge benefit. We would still love to see a M18 multi-bay charger at some point! If you have any questions about Milwaukee M18 or any of the FUEL tools, give the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 a call.

Bosch 10” Wet Tile/Masonry Saw with Stand TC10-07

2012-04-30T22:07:04Z

A first for Bosch in North America, this new 10” wet saw is very well equipped for stone, masonry and tile cutting. The motor is a 15 amp 1.4HP with a no load RPM of 4,200 which is about the most you can get out of a standard 120v saw. Capacity is fairly sizeable with 24” rip cuts and 3-3/4” high cut depth. We did have a chance to see the unit in person and we have to say our first impression was of very solid engineering & construction. The Bosch TC10-07 ($1099, Ohio Power Tool) comes complete with the folding stand GTA10 and is in stock now, with the TC10 base saw unit and GTA10W roller stand to be available soon.

]]> This saw has taken several steps to improve the mess synonymous with tile cutting. A rear and side tray have been added that will collect much of the overspray and return it to the reservoir. From what we have seen the system did a very nice job with the trays being fairly easy to detach for transportation and storage. Will these be used all the time with every unit, our guess is probably not. No matter how much you shield the area tile and masonry cutting is messy business and guys are used to this. That being said for those looking to keep the work area a little cleaner and more professional looking, the Bosch is probably one of your best bets.

The units do not come with Wet Tile Diamond Blades so you with have to get those separately. If you have any questions about Tile Saws, Diamond blades or any specific applications call the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 and they will be happy to help.

Bosch 12V Compact Hammer Drill/Driver PS130-2A Review

2012-04-27T20:45:35Z

We recently had the opportunity to try out the new 12V Hammer Drill/Driver PS120-2A ($159, Ohio Power Tool) from Bosch but took the easy way out and let the wife try her hand at hammer drilling.

Rather than just going ahead and taking care of a simple picture hanging honey-do I threw the PS130 in her hands to see how she would do. This one was especially applicable because she would need to utilize the hammer drill function to drill into the basement block wall. As I expected her to be intimidated and shy with the drill I was surprised to see her dive in. Equipped with a ¼” carbide bit and a Powers Tapper the job was done in a seconds. Now that she’s realized hanging pictures in concrete is not much different than drywall, with the right tool, I am a little scared to see what else she’s got planned.

]]>

This kit comes with 2 batteries and a 30 minute charger, which means a pretty much endless supply of juice for continued use on a busy Saturday of assembling kid’s toys, hanging pictures, and anything else around the house.

Don’t get us wrong however this drill is also ideal for professional users doing small concrete anchoring, drilling and fastening. We are really surprised how versatile it can be. By no means would this take the place of the Heavy Duty 18V hammer drill for bigger jobs. It is just that many of the most common projects and applications will not require the 700 in.lbs. of torque in an 18V tool. We think however there is enough room in his/her arsenal for both the 18V and 12V tool platforms and good reasons to have tools in both.

For this post however we wanted to think like a regular homeowner / condo-owner / apartment renter looking for 1 tool that was easy to use. With enough power and features to take on 95% of the most basic homeowner projects including drilling into concrete walls this tool really is very impressive and could be a good option even over a more powerful 18V.

Now I can delegate some more of the weekend projects to my lovely wife. Hello? Anybody there? Yea… who am I kidding.

Milwaukee Grinder Deal on 4.5" to 6" - Buy 3 Get One Free

2012-04-26T20:57:31Z

We have posted on the new Milwaukee Grinders a couple of times; see here and video comparison here, with pretty positive results. We continue to see excellent professional performance and probably the best value in the grinder category as they are very well priced vs other pro grinders. For the high volume grinder users this promotion is pretty attractive and works for almost any of the 4.5”-6” Milwaukee Grinders you will find at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424.

See the full Mail-In Rebate for complete details. Offer good until June 30, 2012.

RIDGID CrossChek Inspection System - Utility Bore Slot Drilling

2012-04-24T22:14:44Z

It's pretty scary to imagine those utility guys drilling out front hit 2-3 other utility lines per mile, some of which are gas lines… That being said this seems like a pretty essential new Ridgid SeeSnake Camera for inspecting pneumatically bored utility lines and hopefully will become a standard requirement. The camera can only inspect the lines after they are already bored so if you do run into another line the damage is already done but the good news is you can locate it instantly and repair it. To understand how it works a little better watch the 2 videos below and check out the Ridgid press release below that. These units will be available soon from Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 but as of now pricing has not been released.

]]>

ELYRIA, OHIO – RIDGID® introduces the RIDGID CrossChek™ Inspection System which allows a visual inspection of a bore slot before installing a new utility to help reduce the likelihood of cross bores.

Cross bores – the unintended intersection of underground utilities – can occur when utility line installers cut underground trenches for installing utilities. They can be extremely dangerous, especially when dealing with natural gas lines. How common are they? Surveys of legacy installations in some areas have found an average of two to three cross bores per mile of sewer lines and sewer laterals inspected*.

“The process of cutting a bore slot is blind,” said Josh Sooy, Senior Product Manager of Underground Technologies for RIDGID. “A gas line installed through another underground utility could result in blocked sewers, disrupted communications or gas explosions. The CrossChek system offers contractors, installers and utility companies a way to reduce the uncertainty of pneumatic boring.”

The CrossChek system, capable of inspecting bore slots 1-3/4” to 3” in diameter, includes a streamlined stainless steel camera and carrier device designed to be pulled back through freshly cut slots in a variety of underground conditions. It is designed with common thread adapters, making it compatible with most air hoses and thus easily incorporated into the boring process. It is also compatible with a variety of RIDGID inspection camera systems, including the RIDGID SeeSnake® microReel, microDrain™ and nanoReel.

As the air hose is retrieved through a bore slot, the CrossChek system’s centering guide maintains the slot’s integrity and sheds loose debris. The attached camera, which faces a reflective cone, transmits a clear image that allows the user to visually inspect the inside of the bore slot.

If a cross bore is discovered, the built in sonde, in combination with a locator, leads installers to the location of the issue for diagnosis and repair. Once the problem is fixed, the utility line can then be pulled into place by high-strength puller cables that accompany the device.

Amazon Supply vs MSC & Fastenal & Granger & McMaster Carr

2012-04-23T20:13:03Z

If you have not already heard Amazon has built a new site called Amazon Supply which sells a very wide range of products from janitorial supply, bulk metal, fasteners, tools, automotive, office supplies and much more. This service is built to directly attack the large national supply houses such as Grainger, MSC, Fastenal, etc who have traditionally priced items less competitively but been able to secure business based on the fact that they can supply such a wide range of items.

]]> Amazon Supply is up to the same tricks as the other guys, recreating product SKU numbers for all the products (so customers can’t price compare on repetitive orders) and almost zero technical product support. We called and asked some fairly basic product questions which we were literally given the manufacturers number as an answer. They were very helpful in order processing and with free shipping over $50, even on items like 72” long angle and 36”x36” steel sheet stock it’s a pretty good option for small orders of materials.

Makita Oscillating Tool with 18V for More Power & Runtime

2012-04-20T19:51:37Z

One of the biggest complaints we have heard with cordless oscillating tools is the lack of battery life. On a 12v battery typically you are going to see less than 10 minutes of runtime with operations like sanding, grout removal and continuous cutting. The small compact size is very handy however we are also finding these units to be far less powerful than the 3.0Amp corded tools common in stores now. This new Makita is one of the only major brands to go with a 18V platform for longer battery life and claims to be as powerful as their new corded 3.0Amp tool (also launching in May) so for serious users this might be a better option.

]]> The Makita accessories available at launch will include 5 blades and a variety of sanding options. The kits also include adaptors to fit most other brands accessories including Bosch OIS, Fein, Dremel, etc. It is not totally clear if the Makita accessories are interchangeable with other models. See the Makita Press release and videos below for more information on both the corded and cordless models.

La Mirada, Calif. - Makita, a worldwide manufacturer of technologically advanced power tools that are more compact with less weight yet deliver industrial strength power and results, has released two new multi-tools: the new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool Kit (model LXMT025), and the new Multi-Tool Kit (model TM3000CX5). Both tools are engineered for fast cutting, sanding, scraping and grout removal, and are ideal for a full range of trades.

The cordless LXMT025 is the latest addition to Makita's expanding 18V LXT line-up, with 50+ tools all powered by one 18V Lithium-Ion battery - with more tools on the way.

"Trades of all kinds are turning to oscillating multi-tools for a full range of applications," said Joe Soto, Product Manager, Residential Construction. "Makita has engineered power and performance features into both models, with additional features like reduced vibration and lower noise. With an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless multi-tool, as well as a corded multi-tool, Makita has two best-in-class options for contractors."

LXMT025: Corded Speed and Power without the Cord

The 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool (LXMT025) delivers up to 15 minutes of run time with Makita's fast-charging 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery. The variable speed control dial (6,000 - 20,000 OPM) and soft start feature enable the user to match the speed to the application with more control, and the 3.2 degree oscillation angle is engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding. The LXMT025 features an L.E.D. light to illuminate the work area, a small diameter barrel grip for improved handling, a large on/off slide switch with lock-on button, and a clamp system and adapter (included) to fit most competitive accessories.

The new LXMT025 is powered by Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery and the ENERGY STAR® qualified Rapid Optimum Charger. Makita's 18V Lithium-Ion battery delivers 3X more cycles, and the Rapid Optimum Charger will charge an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery in only 30 minutes for more work and less downtime.

"As the market leader in 18 volt lithium-ion, it is only natural that Makita delivered a cordless oscillating multi-tool with the speed and performance of a corded multi-tool," said Ethan Haughawout, Product Manager, Cordless Tools. "This new multi-tool is just one of more than 50 tools that are all powered by Makita LXT Lithium-Ion, the industry's first 18 volt lithium-ion battery."

The LXMT025 is a kit and includes two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries and charger, as well as an assortment of 14 accessories for cutting and sanding. The LXMT02Z is available as a bare tool with the tool only, 1 plunge cut blade and 2 accessory adapters but without the batteries and charger.

New TM3000CX5 Delivers Lower Vibration and Lower Noise

The new TM3000CX5 is powered by a 3.0 AMP motor with soft start for smooth start-ups. The variable speed control dial (6,000 - 20,000 OPM) enables the user to match the speed to the application, and the electronic speed control maintains contstant speed under load for smoother, higher-quality work. Similar to the 18V Lithium-Ion Multi-Tool, the new TM3000CX5 has a 3.2 degree oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding. The TM3000CX5 also features a range of comfort and convenience features including reduced vibration (6 m/s²) and lower noise (74dB), a small diameter barrel grip, a large on/off slide switch with lock-on button, and a clamp system and adapters (included) to fit most competitive accessories.

Two Options for a Full Range of Applications

Both tools are engineered for a full range of applications including cutting, sanding, scraping, grout removal, and more. The LXMT025 and TM3000CX5 are ideal for remodelers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, wood floor installers, and general contractors seeking a best-in-class multi-tool. Both tools will be available in May 2012.

LXMT025
Oscillations per Minute: 6,000 - 20,000
Oscillating angle: 3.2°
Battery: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion
Overall length: 12"
Net weight: 4.5 lbs. (with battery)
Includes:Tool, 2 ea. 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery, 1 30-Minute Rapid Optimum Charger, 1 ea. Plunge Cut Blade, 1 ea. Sanding Pad, Sandpaper (10 pc. assortment: 120 & 180 grit), 2 ea. Accessory Adapters, Accessory Case, Tool Bag

TM3000CX5
AMPS: 3.0
Oscillations per Minute: 6,000 - 20,000
Oscillating angle: 3.2°
Overall length: 10-3/4"
Net weight: 3.1 lbs.
Includes: Tool, 1 ea. Plunge Cut Blade, 1 ea. Sanding Pad, Sandpaper (10 pc. assortment: 120 & 180 grit), 2 ea. Accessory Adapters, Accessory Case, Tool Bag

DeWalt Cleanable Hex Bit Holder – Is This Really Necessary?

2012-04-19T22:24:55Z

The ¼” hex bit holder is very handy and becoming essential as the torque rating on some of these tools continues to climb. At first glance we thought this was another one of DeWalt’s Impact Ready accessories built to handle high torque applications. Well it does that but the story of this accessory is cleaning… That’s right you can push the slide up and clean out the metal shavings and other debris.

]]>

Not to say we have never gotten dirt and metal shavings in a bit holder, it happens from time to time. Is this really necessary however? A blast of compressed air will get you going again. We got a little carried away in the picture above but sure enough the retractable nut driver does work. If you are interested in this new DeWalt accessory the part number is DWA2221IR (Coming Soon, Amazon) however I could not find pricing on it yet.

Milwaukee M12 Band Saw 2429-21XC vs Hydraulic Rebar Cutter

2012-04-18T22:13:38Z

At first glance we thought what could we do with a Band Saw that only has a 1-5/8” capacity? Our thought with any tool in our arsenal is never how many things can this tool do a medium job at. We look for 1 thing the tool can do a great job at, then any additional tasks it might do is a bonus. We had to build several concrete pads with rebar inside for training event so it was the perfect opportunity to test out the M12 Band Saw 2429-21XC ($199, Ohio Power Tool). We also happened to have access to a $1700 Multiquip Rebar Cutter which we did some comparison bench marking.

]]> The Milwaukee M12 Band Saw is the first official one handed cordless band saw so it is super easy to use holding the rebar in one hand and cutting with the other. The blade is fully enclosed so safer but with the blade pushing the material into the shoe band saws in general really feels like one of the safest ways to cut anything metal. With only a 1-5/8” capacity we would definitely push someone who worked with any pipe or tubing into a larger band saw unit. For cutting rebar and threaded rod however this little tool really is extremely handy.

Comparing with a Hydraulic/Electric Rebar Cutter

If you are a serious concrete guy it is possible you have invested in a rebar cutter that looks like the one we have used here for somewhere between $1500-$2000. A cutter like this hydraulically breaks the metal in about 4.12 seconds. The unit also requires 110v power and weights about 27.7 lbs. If you are going to make a few hundred cuts before lunch probably a good investment. If you don’t have one but occasionally do need to cut rebar how does a cordless tool that weights 6.7 lbs, costs less than $200 and makes about 50 cuts (in 1/2” rebar) per charge. Yes it does take a whole 7.11 seconds per cut but only 10.86 seconds to cut 2 at once, pretty darn close to the speed of a unit almost 10x cost. See more comparison pictures in this Facebook Album.

By nature band saw blades work very well for cutting metal for several reasons, 1 they use every inch of cutting (unlike recip blades that burn out the first inch with rest nearly unused), 2 the blade rotates so it has much more time to cool down. Heat being the absolute enemy of any metal cutting accessory.

Overall we think we have found a great place for this little band saw. For those remodeler, landscaper, handyman, etc that do have a need for occasional concrete work but don’t need it every day this is a great options. Even a decent 5/8” manual rebar cutter ($272, Amazon) will cost you more and be far less useful. Good luck making 50 cuts in a row with that tool! Contact the Milwaukee Tool experts at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 for more information on the 30+ M12 Tools, almost all of which are current in-stock there!

CopTool - Power Tool Reviews & News Blog

Ridgid SeeSnake Max rM200 Inspection Camera System 200’