CopTool - Power Tool Reviews & News Blog

Milwaukee REDLITHIUM Batteries: What’s the Big Deal?

2010-09-02T17:58:53Z

Several years ago we all lived in ignorance with NiCD batteries on our power tools. Then came Lithium Ion a new technology that promised better runtime and a more consistent power curve and the people rejoiced. But all was not well, on that first cold winter morning when you went to the truck and the new Lithium tools wouldn’t work because they were too cold.

In the northern part of the country this is obviously a bigger issue but we have contractors going back to NiCD tools in the winter time because NiCD currently performs better in the cold. We certainly aren’t the only ones who think this is completely ridiculous.

]]> Back in July we were lucky enough to be invited to Milwaukee Tool to see some of their new tools and accessories. One such product was the REDLITHION M12 & M18 Batteries which will be on all their new tools and eventually on all the existing tools. We saw some power point slides that said the batteries promised “up to” 40% more runtime, “up to” 20% higher speeds and “up to” 20% more torque on existing M12 & M18 tools. This is great news especially since there is no upcharge on the new batteries just better performance.

Then we got to the part where they had a demonstration and this was where they really drove home the biggest selling feature in our minds. It was freeze full of REDLITHIUM M12 & M18 as well as current M12 & M18 and all the competitors’ batteries. We got to take them all out of the freezer and use them and they were cold, hard to touch cold. The REDLITHIUM batteries blew everything else away (some competitors tools barely moved); they operated just as you would expect a normal temp battery to work. The official press release says they operate down to 0°F/-18°C. The reason we say that’s the most important feature because giving a battery 40% more runtime doesn’t mean squat if they don’t work 1/3 of the year.

The First Milwaukee Tools to come with REDLITHIUM Batteries in 2010:
2432-22 M12™ ProPEX Expander
2330 M12™ Heated Jacket
2411-22 M12™ Hammer Drill Driver
2458-22 M12™ Palm Nailer
2426-22 M12™ Oscillating Multi-Tool
2632-22 M18™ ProPEX Expander
2682-22 M18™ 5-3/8” Metal Saw
2615-22 M18™ Right Angle Drill”

Eventually down the road all the Milwaukee Tools in M12 & M18 will convert over to the new REDLITHIUM batteries. Currently however there is a great deal with Milwaukee M12 Tools available only from Ohio Power Tool where you can get a FREE M12 XC Battery ($80 value) with any kit that includes battery & charger. This even applies to pre-orders on the 2432-22 Pro-PEX tool that will include the REDLITHIUM batteries!

International Woodworkers Fair (IWF) 2010 Review & Videos

2010-08-31T19:12:00Z

The 2010 IWF Show was last week in Atlanta, Ga and while we could not make the show we of course were waiting patiently for news of new products, reviews and videos to be available. Unfortunately we were a little disappointed; typically the woodworking crowd is pretty internet savvy when it comes to blogging, videos and updates. Even with the show reduction in size and several vendors pulling out all together we thought there would be a little more coverage. The good news is our buddy Chris Marshall with Woodworker’s Journal was on hand with a camera crew and got many of the highlights, which were up almost instantly.

]]> The Dewalt Compact Router DWP611 (see our post), was one of the most popular releases from the show, judging solely by YouTube views. We ourselves had questions about size and use and this shed some light on those points.

From the Porter Cable booth there were live samples on their new 12V Cordless Tools but the real exciting new product in the way of woodworking tools had to be the QuickJig for pocket joints. Also check out the post on Toolguyd for more specs and pictures on that product.

At the Bosch booth they had the Glide Miter Saw which we reviewed several months back. Jason from Bosch goes over some of the features and why it’s especially good for woodworking. Looks like the target on this tool’s release is mid-October in addition to the new 2.3HP Bosch Routers which we hope to see out even sooner.

One item we didn’t see Chris cover which is especially close to our hearts here at Coptool is the 5 Axis head for the ShopBot we heard about from American Woodworker. Our shared ShopBot resides at the Idea Foundry and while we haven’t begun to exploit all that is possible with 3 axis, already the idea of 2 more axis is just something we can’t live without.

For all Chris's videos on Festool, Kreg, Jet, SawStop & much more check out the Woodworker’s Journal YouTube channel. For more info on the event visit the home page for the International Woodworkers Fair at www.iwfatlanta.com.

Drill vs Impact Driver vs Hammer Drill vs Rotary Hammer Drill

2010-08-30T16:12:07Z

Potato patato what’s the different right? Well depending on the tool and what job you want to do there is going to be a lot of difference among these tools. We’ll go over some of the basics of how the different tools operate and some of the most common jobs for each. Hopefully we can clear up any confusion that might still be out there.

Traditional Drill/Driver

They’ve been around since the invention of power tools and my guess is if you are reading this blog you have several of these traditional drill/drivers in your possession already. Typically there tools will come with a 3/8” or ½” chuck and can vary greatly in speed, power and size. The traditional drill/driver is a very versatile tool because it can do two very common tasks drilling holes and driving fasteners. When you get to larger units like the very popular Milwaukee Hole Hawg ($279, Ohio Power Tool) and the torque rating starts to get pretty high the unit can become more difficult to control. Sometimes spinning the tool instead of the bit and people can get injured, because of this fact there is an upper limit on how much torque these tools can effectively have.

]]> Impact Driver

Increasing in popularity the impact driver is similar to the more traditional drill/driver with the added feature in the impact gear mechanism. Once the motor reaches a certain level of resistance an impact gear kicks in and pounds an anvil in the same direction the motor is already spinning. This gives the motor a boost in torque and since the anvil is hit at a rate of around 3000bpm (or 50 times per second) the added torque feels very constant. The added benefit of this very rapid on/off of torque is that if the bit should be jammed you are not going to feel the twisting on your wrist like you do with a traditional drill. The impact drivers uses a hex shank which does limit the ability to use drill bits or 2 sided driver bits. More power and more control make these tools ideal for driving screws, bolts and other fasteners. Less ideal for finished woodworking as the impact mechanism can kick in at any point and will offer slightly less control in that sense compared to a traditional drill. The Bosch Impactor 26618 ($369, Ohio Power Tool) gives you the best of both worlds which can switch between drill and impact driver, however at that price you can also pick up a 2 tool kit with both tools (see CLPK22-180).

Hammer Drill

Similar again to the traditional Drill/Driver, most hammer drills will feature a ½” chuck and will be able to switch from drill mode to hammer drill mode. The “hammer” action can be attributed to a special clutch which will deliver around 30,000bpm (500 per second) which is a hard to imagine number. The hammer action actually moved the chuck in and out unlike the impact driver which advances the bit in the same way as the motor is already spinning. The rapid in and out motion pounds the material breaking it up while it drills, most effectively used on concrete and masonry. The hammer action is not intended for driving fasteners or use on wood, metal or any other materials. The hammer drill is commonly found in many combo kits but the downside is these tools are often much heavier than traditional drill/drivers or impact drivers and for most users this is a waist as they are going to be used in drill mode more often.

Rotary Hammer Drill

When you step up to a rotary hammer drill there is no longer fastener driving taking place. These larger drills hammering action is attributed to a piston mechanism instead of a clutch so the stroke is longer, more powerful but there are less of them. The rotary hammers also use special shanks to hold the carbide bits in place (see the post SDS vs SDS-Plus vs SDS-Max vs Spline) depending on the size of the hammer. Most commonly rotary hammers have 3 modes: drill only, hammer drill and hammer only. Hammer only mode allows for the use of chisels and scraper bits as well, adding some versatility to these tools. The most common application is for drilling holes into concrete from tapcon sizes up to 2” wide for anchoring structural rebar. Core bit (see Hammer Drill Core Bits) drilling ranging in size up to 6” are another common application for going into concrete, cinder block and other masonry.

Hopefully this helps clear up some of the confusion but if you still have questions about any of the tools or accessories please give the guys at Ohio Power Tool a call, 800-242-4424. They will help you find the right tool for the job.

DeWalt Launches New Compact Router – Fixed & Plunge Base

2010-08-27T19:47:30Z

Announced yesterday from the Yellow team is a new 1.25HP Compact Router available as a fixed base unit DWP611 ($139) or a combo kit which can be used with fixed or plunge base DW611PK ($199). The router is a variable speed unit and designed to do the work of both a palm router and many jobs of a full sized router. We have not seen one of these units in person so we are not sure how it would compare in size to the 1HP Bosch Colt Palm Sander PR20EVSK ($121, Ohio Power Tool) but our guess it would be very similar. It looks as though the new DeWalt is going to compete directly with the Bosch Colt which has been one of the most popular palm routers for years.

The DeWalt Compact Router also has some nice improvements such as clear base and LED lights which will make it much easier to see your work. We first saw these features on another Bosch router, the MRF23EVS but delays have kept the much anticipated 2.3HP Bosch router from being launched. Looks like this DeWalt router could beat it to market when it launches in October 2010. Checkout the full DeWalt Press Release below for more info.

]]> TOWSON, Md. – Today, DeWalt announces the launch of its new Compact Router, which combines power, ease-of-use, ergonomic features and innovations designed for visibility, control and overall performance. The Compact Router, which is available as a fixed base unit (DWP611) and a fixed/plunge base combination kit (DW611PK), merges the ergonomic features associated with trimmers and the power of full-size routers to deliver the performance and versatility building professionals require.

“DeWalt’s new Compact Router offers woodworkers a number of features for operator control and ease-of-use when handling a variety of applications, from small bevel cuts to large edge profiles and heavy flush trimming,” said Bill Harman, product manager, DeWalt. “We are committed to delivering solutions that give professionals absolute confidence in our products and exceed their expectations.”

The new router features a 1-1/4 peak HP motor that delivers significantly more power than competitors’ models to help users be as productive as possible. Additionally, the router includes several features designed to improve operator control compared to what they experience with other routers on the market today.

For instance, variable speed control allows professionals to better manage the tool and determine the speed that is best suited for the application at hand. A low, contoured grip that is close to the work surface also contributes to the level of control users experience compared to other products on the market. This leads to precision and productivity on the jobsite.

Knowing that its end users requested improved visibility and accuracy over existing units, DeWalt’s new Compact Router features dual LEDs to provide ample illumination of the work surface and an extended ¼-inch router collet. The router collet provides greater bit contact with the bit shaft than traditional routers, allowing users a firm grip on the bit and less vibration. For the durability professionals demand, the new Compact Router also incorporates an all-metal motor can.

The fixed-base unit includes an adjustable ring that enables intuitive depth setting, and a flared base arch provides a point of reference for the user’s hand. The D-shaped sub-base provides stability and flatness when running edge profiles, allowing for precision.

The spindle lock has been designed to greatly improve the ease of bit change compared to other routers on the market by incorporating a large button that can be actuated with the same hand that stabilizes the router, and the 12 motor shaft detents work so the lock pin and shaft are not more than 15 degrees from alignment. The router incorporates an electronic speed control feature that maintains speed when under load and offers a soft start feature to reduce torque at start-up. The new model features two tabs that allow for a quick and simple base release, and a new base/adjustable clamp design so the motor location is maintained through the toughest applications.

The plunge base that comes as part of the combination kit features a clear and precise depth scale and marker, a release-to-lock lever to maintain the designated depth setting and rubber handles for a non-slip grip.

The plunge mechanism delivers excellent user control via its smooth and light depth stroke, and the five-step adjustable turret stop enables stepped plunge cuts for accuracy and consistency.

At just over four pounds, the fixed base unit offers sufficient power to perform most small to medium routing applications while the plunge base (six pounds with motor included) provides a simple and accurate way to make interior cuts, such as flutes, inlays and mortises.

The Compact Router will be available at home centers and industrial distributors starting in October 2010. The fixed base unit (DWP611) is expected to retail for approximately $139.00, and the fixed/plunge base combination kit (DW611PK) is expected to retail for approximately $199.00.

The product comes with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee. Additionally, there are a number of accessories that are compatible with the product, including a dust adaptor for the fixed base (DNP615), a dust extractor for the plunge base (DNP616), a straight edge guide for the fixed base (DNP618), a straight edge and circle cutting guide for the plunge base (DW6913) and template guides (DW6188).

Free Bosch DareDevil Spade Bits & Chance to Win Much More!

2010-08-26T14:10:42Z

Each Month the Bosch Accessories website for “Joe the Pro” does a prize drawing. It’s a simple way for them to gather your contact information and receive emails, only if you so choose the checkbox. This time around however you will get a FREE DareDevil Spade Bit as well as getting registered for the prize giveaway. Hurry up though it’s only good for the first 100 registrants.

If you are interested in simply picking up additional DareDevil Spade Bits visit OhioPowerTool.com for a wide selection on complete bit sets and individual sizes in 4”, 6” & 16” spade bit lengths.

Bosch RS7 Reciprocating Saw with LED Light

2010-08-24T16:38:57Z

It seems to be the trend in power tools these days that any tool can be improved with an LED light. Unlike the trend of putting lasers beams on every power or hand tool out there we are actually a big fan of LED lights on many tools. On the jobsite, shop, backyard or garage you are not always going to have the greatest lighting and seeing that dull pencil line through the blade guard isn’t always the easiest task.

The Bosch Reciprocating Saw RS7 ($99, Ohio Power Tool) replaces the RS5 and increases power to 11amps. This is the light weight, medium duty model but it still has some serious power so for most plumbers, electricians and homeowners it will perform very well. Unless you are doing a lot of demolition work in most cases the larger 15amp reciprocating saws or Sawzalls are just going to be added weight. Also check out the new Saw Blades including Milwaukee Sawzall diamond grit and Bosch Edge for Metal Cutting.

Recap – Second Annual Ohio Tool Racing Championships

2010-08-23T21:49:37Z

The weather was not on our side Saturday for the event but that didn’t stop those that showed up from having a good time. We had a last minute sponsor jump on board, Pabst Blue Ribbon, which helped brighten the mood and a it turned out to be great crowd that wasn’t going to let a few rain drops spoil their fun!

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There were several youngsters that came for the Build-A-Sander portion which started at 2pm. Several ArtCar folks were on hand with supplies to help make that part of the day extra enjoyable for the participants and their fans. There was also a great demo for metal smithing pewter which many people of all ages took part in.

When it was time for the main event to start we were feeling pretty confident in our angry looking little monster we named “The Reaver”. It was definitely the largest motor in the field and while still fairly new to welding pretty confident she was going to hold together. Alas things don’t always go as you would like and in the end she had too much ass to stay on the track. In hindsight a wheelie bar would have provided all the necessary stability to keep it on the track and win us the whole show. As it turned out this year all Coptool took home was a trophy for “Best Wreck(s)”. Even our most successful run we knocked over both hay bales and smashed into a metal pole… not a good showing for 2010, but there is always next year! See the highlight reel of our racer on YouTube above.

The final race came down to last year’s champ TJ who brought the Pig back, head reattached and newly named “Oinkenstein”. The competition was a new comer to the more open platform of power tool racing but a well established old timer in the world of Belt Sander Drag Racing, named “United We Sand”. This well designed and hand engineered machine came right off the wall of fame at Wood Werks Supply (one of the best independent Woodworking shops around and also the 1st nationwide to have a Rockler store within their store). In a best of 3 challenge, the PIG took home the prize for the second year in a row! Hats off to TJ for another great victory.

Our initial assessment of any belt sander was that it would be near impossible to compete against something powered by a circular saw or large angle grinder but we were wrong. It was amazing to see how fast this think flew down the track. We will see “United We Sand” again next year and potentially some other competition from the guys over at Wood Werks. We are also working on the repair crew at Ohio Power Tool to build something than could compete next year in a tool store throw down, let the rivalry begin.

Here are some of the initial Albums (with more to come soon):

http://www.flickr.com/photos/krugalug/sets/72157624788806384/

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=201122&id=77451218630&ref=mf

Thanks again to all the event sponsors:

Irwin Tools Liggett Stashower Ohio Power Tool Pabst Blue Ribbon

Power Tool Drag Racing Tomorrow in Columbus, Ohio

2010-08-20T16:02:10Z

Yes just one day away is the 2nd annual Ohio Tool Racing Championship (www.toolraces.com) and things are getting pretty exciting around the Columbus Idea Foundry this week. Lots of people are piling in this week to get their projects finish. It will probably be a very late night at the shop tonight for some but we’d expect nothing less.

Our Coptool racer is 95% complete and a fairly menacing looking creation; after all there are some pretty big expectations on us. "The Reaver" is welded out of 1” steel tubes, powered by a 9” Bosch grinder pushing a 10” Milwaukee saw blade. See more pics in this Facebook Album. We are pretty confident she will smoke down the track and take any hits that come her way (although pretty inexperienced welder so watch out).

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From 2-4pm there will be some exciting stuff going on with designing and building the belt sander racers, see blanks above to shop demos of metal casting, CNC and other fun stuff. The official Tool Races will begin at 5pm and we will race until a champion is declared.

Thank you to the Event sponsors Irwin Tools & Ohio Power Tool for donating hundreds of dollars in prizes (everyone who enters will also get a goodies bag valued around $50 worth the price of admission). Thank you to Liggett Stashower for all the creative eye catching artwork. Also a special thanks to all the Tool Media for helping spread the word: HandyManClub - Handy Magazine, ToolMonger, Woodworking - About.com, HomeFixated, Pro Tool Reviews, ToolGuyd, Extreme How To Magazine, MyFixItUpLife - Radio Show, Tool-Rank, Contractor Supply Magazine, ToolSnob, The Garage Slab Magazine.

For the spectators the BBQ grill will be fired up all day and Pabst Blue Ribbon has stepped in to provide some adult beverages in addition to soda and water. The weather is calling for possible thunderstorms but we are in a covered outdoor pavilion so not to worries there. Additionally there will be some different demos from 2-4pm going on for Art Car design, Metal Casting & ShopBot CNC (you can even design your own belt sander blank if you get there early). Lots of fun and good people come check it out.

Porter Cable 12V Max Launches with 3 New Tools

2010-08-19T21:49:31Z

It’s no surprise to us that Porter Cable is coming to market with 12 volt tools. This category is the fastest growing segment of new tools and where you will find a lot of new innovation. As battery power gets stronger, tools get smaller and the price comes down many people are looking to add these smaller tools to the arsenal.

The first two Porter Cable 12V tools we saw images of were the 3/8” drill driver and the impact driver. These tools feature the battery in the handle like most of the competition and solid performance numbers but no real innovation. Where they will win is on price, $139 for the kit with both of these tools and 2 batteries is a very solid price. The only feature we really thought was a nice addition was the belt clips which can be added to either tool.

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The 3rd tool is the ClampSaw which looks to almost be a direct descendant of the old 18v Milwaukee Hatcket (which we still get people asking for). The ClampSaw features an adjustable handle for strait to pistol grip cutting. The head also features a clamp which would be good for cutting small diameter pipe but when it is not in use it retracts down. Price on the saw will be $129, also pretty competitive.

All 3 tools will launch in October around the same time as the new DeWalt 12V Max tools. Plenty of time for the holiday gift season and at the low prices they should be very popular. We have not had a chance to actually touch any of these tools but will do a full review as they get closer to launch.

HEPA Vacs and EPA Lead-Based Paint Renovation Rules

2010-08-17T21:56:15Z

In this month’s Construction Distribution Magazine there is a really nice article titles “Help Your Customer Choose a HEPA Vacuum”. The article is aimed at those selling vacuums but I think it is probably much more helpful for those buying them. It covers the basics of the HEPA vac, how it will treated by the EPA Restoration, Repair and Painting (RRP) rules as well as some of the attachments you will need for specific jobs.

One other bit of good new you will find in the article is that the official start date for enforcement has been moved back to October 1, 2010 for the individual training and company certification. Also if an individual has applied to enroll in one of the courses by September 30, 2010 they will have until December 31, 2010 to complete the training.

If you are interested in more specific information covered in the compliance course our friend Everett over at ProToolReviews will be able to shed some light on that. He attended the 2 day course and did a nice article that gives his experience as well as voicing some concerns and frustrations with the process.

]]> Some high points we gathered in our quest to learn more about the topic were that is seems pretty unlikely there are going to be EPA agents stopping by every renovation site on October 2^nd, 2010. However the fact is you will need to hold on to the records for 5 years and if a home owner has any issues with lead paint down the road you will be responsible. Our thought would be to get compliant right away vs facing a $37,500 fine in a few years when there will be most likely will be more EPA regulations.

In terms of HEPA vacs for “in use” renovations for the past many years we have seen folks use high quality vacuums like the Bosch 3931A ($599, Ohio Power Tool) and simply replace the filters with the Bosch HEPA filter VAC019 ($199). Starting October 1st, according to the new EPA rules this system would not qualify as a HEPA system for Lead-Paint Removal as it has not been certified as a complete unit. We spoke with Bosch officials and there will be a certified HEPA version of the 3931A coming soon but no official word on price or release date.

The one company that seemed to have gotten way in front of the HEPA vacuum bandwagon is Dustless Technologies. Their HEPA Vacuum ($441, Ohio Power Tool) is one of the least expensive on the market and while missing some of the advance tool power management features out of the box, these are simple add-ons. They also have developed a wide range of concrete dust extraction products like the BitBuddie for core drilling, CutBuddies for tuck pointing, DustBuddies for surface grinding and the Dustie as the most economical dust removal solution.

If you have any additional questions about HEPA vacuums or accessories feel free to give the guys at Ohio Power Tool a call 800-242-4424 and they will be happy to help you find the right tool for the job. If you would like to learn more about the EPA guidelines classes etc, please visit www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.

PEX System Rundown: Uponor (ProPEX) vs Viega (PureFlow)

2010-08-13T18:47:11Z

Cross-Linked Polyethylene Tubing or PEX plumbing systems have become the norm in new building today with companies continue to find new and innovative uses for the resource. In addition to replacing copper tubing for many traditional plumbing needs it is also an idea choice for radiant floor heating and now quickly becoming a popular option for fire sprinkler installations. Unfortunately all PEX systems are not uniformly configured and there are several systems to consider, hopefully this will give a little background on the different options out there.

As history will tell us it is common for there to be many players in new technologies but eventually 1 or 2 main players with emerge and they become the standard. Early adopters of Betamax, MiniDiscs & HDDVD will tell you after shelling out small fortunes for the newest gear it can be painful to see you technology never take off. Even though Betamax was a high quality than VHS, it matters little when the technology is gone, majority rules.

]]> PEX plumbing systems are kind of similar, while the tubing itself is standard (PEX-a, PEX-b or PEX-c) there are several proprietary options for the fittings. One thing you don’t want to happen if you are a professional installer is to have your system go away and all the work you have done over many years be with the “Betamax” of PEX Systems.

The two most popular systems on the market today are the Uponor (ProPEX, Wirsbo & AquaPEX) and Viega (PureFlow, ViegaPEX & ProPress) nothing against any other brands but we wanted to focus on these two and look at some of the differences between them. Since we are a tool blog we will also spend some time looking at the fitting tools and how each of those work.

The Uponor system uses the PEX-a tubing which is the most freeze resistant & most flexible PEX tubing available. The fitting system works by expanding the tube then inserting the fitting and utilizing the inherent shape memory of PEX to seal the fitting. A representative for Uponor add “Expanding the tubing allows the use of a larger-diameter fitting, which minimizes restrictions and allows higher flow rates. For 1" tubing connections, Uponor’s ProPEX fitting has 12% greater internal diameter (i.d.) and 25% greater gallons-per-minute (gpm) flow rate than an insert fitting. This is particularly important with the increasing use of PEX in residential fire sprinkler systems, where lower-flow fittings may require larger tubing sizes and additional sprinkler heads.”

There are several options for fitting tools including manual tools as well as Milwaukee M12 & M18 Expanding Pex Tools. The manual tools ($150+ heads) are going to be very labor intensive to use with the larger fittings or continuously all day long; better suited for the handyman with occasional repair work. The Milwaukee M12 ($399, Ohio Power Tool) and Milwaukee M18 ($699, Ohio Power Tool) are going to be ideal for installation usage with the M12 for smaller diameter PEX and M18 that can handle the entire range of sizes. The Uponor fitting rings are inexpensive as they appear to simply be a small piece of the next size up PEX tubing (although not confirmed) if that is the case and you were in a pinch you could just cut some more yourself.

The Viega PEX system uses the PEX-b tubing (although you could also use another brands PEX-a) and a pressed ring securing the PEX to the fittings. Some advantages with the pressing system is that the fitting are now available with press rings already built-in. For installation the PEX is simply inserted into the fitting and pressed which savers time and makes it so you’ll never run out of the press rings. The downside for the pressing systems is that the fitting have a slightly smaller internal diamete (i.d.) therefore less water can get through vs an expanded fitting system on the same size PEX tube.

With the Viega PEX system you can use manual press tools ($215-380 per size) or automatic Ridgid ProPress Tools. One very large advantage for the Ridgid ProPress (210-B with PEX Jaws) is that you can not only use it with the PEX system but with a simple change of head you can use it for pressing copper and stainless steel pipe & fittings. For situations where you are working with existing plumbing or have work that requires copper you could see these tools being a big advantage. The Ridgid ProPress even has a soil pipe cutter attachment (works with 330-B model), so it is a very versatile system.

For more information directly from the company representatives of Uponor, Viega and Watts checkout this article that was in the Reeves Journal talking about PEX systems and the future of the business.

Irwin Ultimate Tradesman Finals August 20th at Bristol Speedway

2010-08-12T22:00:43Z

This year on August 21st Irwin Tools is sponsoring possibly the greatest event in the 2010 racing season Ohio Tool Racing Championship … on that same day they are also sponsoring another great event in racing the Bristol Night Race. One event will probably have 160,000 people more than the other but very impressive to see Irwin Tools involved in two world class events on the same day.

As if that wasn’t enough, Irwin will be holding their annual Ultimate Tradesman Competition the day before, August 20th, at the Bristol Speedway. This year the event will be televised so if you are not going to be there you can still watch Live on Speed Channel’s NASCAR trackside starting at 7:00pm EST.

You can also vote right now for your favorite Tradesman and automatically enter to win a $250 irwin prize pack. It looks like we got 2 of the top 4 times from the Buckeye State: Jonathan Smith (Delaware, Ohio) & Mark Martin (Ostrander, Ohio) so our state is well represented. Maybe Ohio just makes a better tradesman?

Ridgid CS1000 Digital Recording LCD Monitor 32603 & 32608

2010-08-11T21:44:49Z

New from Ridgid is the SeeSnake 12.1” LCD Monitor with built-in digital recording onto an internal hard drive or 2 thumb drive slots. The CS1000 model 32603 ($5276, Ohio Power Tool) is designed for rugged jobsite use and transportation with features like protective screen cover, daylight LCD and fold-up waterproof keyboard. The CS1000 model 32608 ($5609, Ohio Power Tool) is the same unit but also includes 2 of the Ridgid Plumbing 18V batteries and charger which can be used simultaneously on this monitor providing a full days worth of power for the monitor and reel.

The CS1000 allows for fully functional video recording as well as still image capturing but the real advantage for this unit is it has the SeeSnake HQ reporting software built-in (same software you get with Laptop LT1000) which is ideal for tracking jobs, making notes, billing and sharing with the office. It also makes for very easy integration with RIDGIDConnect for online storage of all the jobs and information.

If you have questions about any Ridgid SeeSnake Monitors, Reels or Camera Systems give Ohio Power Tool a call at 800-242-4424 and the guys there will be happy to help you get the right solution for you.

LumberJocks Summer 2010 Woodworking Awards - Winners!

2010-08-10T13:21:46Z

The winners from the LumberJocks 2010 Summer woodworking contest are in! See all ten winning projects. The winners were selected from the 77 total submissions in an online voting held from August 1 to August 7. 172 votes were cast during this period. Remember the topic was Fluidity…

Fluidity – "Like grasses swaying in a summer breeze, the fluid motion is visible in the solid form of the wood." Create a woodworking project that portrays fluidity and/or movement, Be sure to describe your inspiration and vision - the interpretation is as important as the finished product.

Milwaukee V28 Transitions to Milwaukee M28 Tools

2010-08-09T21:27:58Z

You may be thinking, oh no I’m going to need either new tools, battery or chargers for my V28 Tools to work with the new ones… Nope that is not the case. The M28 platform will be “100% compatible” with the current Milwaukee V28 tools. In fact many of the M tools will basically stay the same, with same part numbers but will be getting the upgraded “M” batteries in the kits. The new batteries will feature Digital Power Management (DPM) and newer construction features that will extend the life of the batteries. Additionally the batteries will provide better overall performance and runtime for all your existing tools.

In addition to the upgraded battery technology we will also see the first of hopefully many new M28 tools with the M28 Hammer Drill 0726-22 ($419, Ohio Power Tool) & M28 LED Flashlight 49-24-0187 ($59, Ohio Power Tool) which should be on shelves very soon. The new ½” Hammer Drill features 750 in.lbs torque more than any other cordless drill on the market today in 18v, 24v, 28v or 36v categories. Check the Ohio Power Tool Milwaukee M28 website often for when exact each model will be in stock with the new M batteries. Items will switch as each tool transitions from V28 to M28. For more information read the official Milwaukee Tool Press Release Below.

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MILWAUKEE, WI – Over the next several months, Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation will transition all V28™ cordless power tools to the new M28™ LITHIUM-ION battery pack. While providing an improved battery pack with more advanced electronics, the new M28™ LITHIUM-ION system will be completely compatible with current V28™products, as the tools themselves will not change.

“The largest high voltage LITHIUM-ION system on the market just got better,” says Christian Coulis, Sr. Product Manager, Cordless for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. “One of the largest advantages of the transition is that users are able to instantly upgrade the performance, run-time and durability of the V28™ tools they already own, simply by switching to the improved M28™ battery pack.”

Milwaukee Electric Tool pioneered Lithium-Ion with the introduction of the V28™ system in 2005. Demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to continual innovation, Milwaukee® has added Digital Power Management (DPM) to the M28™ LITHIUM-ION battery packs to help ensure optimal battery life and run-time, while protecting the battery and tool during the toughest jobsite applications.

DPM features include a temperature management system to keep batteries at the ideal temperature range and individual cell monitoring to ensure optimal charge and discharge. Combined with a side packed design, integrated weld frame, cell separator and impact/vibration protective rubber, this pack provides maximum life and durability to the user.With this introduction, Milwaukee Electric Tool will be releasing a new M28™ LITHIUM-ION battery pack, an M28™ Hammer Drill and new lighting solutions that offer unmatched durability, performance and run-time for the professional tradesman. The first new M28™ product will be available in stores summer, 2010.