Most of the time the first thing that pops into anyone’s head when they hear track saw is ripping down 4x8 sheets of plywood. The DWS520K ($449, Amazon) is ideal for just such a job when compared to a table saw. For stock this large there really is no comparison in accuracy, consistency, safety, not to mention it only takes 1 person to do it right. Where the track saw may get over looked for those not as familiar is the high level precision this tool adds to the convenience factor.

A Finishing Tool

The track saw can be very handy for rough cutting plywood all day long and those using it in this way would think it’s the greatest tool ever. It is so very simple to set up and does a great job making these cuts but where this tool really shines is in finishing. Out of the box you get a 48T blade which might not seem that great until you remember it’s only 6.5”. We are talking about an ultra fine finishing blade that is more than capable of making very clean finishing cuts.

 The specific application that really tested this saw’s capabilities was building some European style cabinetry with cabinet grade plywood. To get a perfect fit for the wood edge banding the cuts needed to be completely smooth. If done on a traditional table saw, even with a good blade chances are the edges would need sanded and then there is a much greater chance it would be uneven. The cut from track saw is so smooth and exact there is no sanding necessary. Same would work very well for prepping to butt joint two boards together when biscuits and dowels are not an option, as with plywood.

Festool was the first to introduce us all to this advanced plunge circular saw type cutting method. The TS 55 EQ ($525, Amazon) is their current competitive model and shares many of the same features with accuracy, dust collection and plunge style operation. The other less expensive option is the Makita Plunge Saw SP6000K ($349, Ohio Power Tool). The tracks on the Makita & Festool are single sided where the DeWalt can be used dual sided which is probably not be a deal killer. We were also curious why some are called “plunge” saws vs “track” saws but it’s probably a patented/copy write thing we will let the lawyers worry about.

The most important feature of this saw is the track itself, until we all get 8’ go go gadget arms this is going to be the simplest way to accurately rip plywood long ways. As we mentioned previously DeWalt is the only saw that can use the track in either direction. The non-slip strips on the bottom of the track are also over looked in many of the descriptions of this tool but have impressively strong holding power. The Achilles heel of the non-stick strips however is saw dust on the track or cutting material. For that reason they also make clamps that fit right into the track and will hold the work surface in place as well.

In the above picture Greg demonstrates one of the preferred way of using the track saw for the best accuracy. When a smooth flat surface is available, simply lay down nice thick pieces of insulation with the work surface on top of that and attach the track saw to the work surface. This ensures the most flat accurate cuts vs possible warping that could occur when the material is only supported at certain points.

More than anything we were surprised at how seriously accurate this tool can be. With limited experience before Greg’s cabinet project, in our heads this was more of a rough cutting tool which makes it very easy to get large material into manageable workable sizes. Now our whole though process has changed to think of this as a finishing tool which can also do rough cutting very well. Special thanks to Greg as well as the folks at DeWalt for letting us demo this unit. More to come on this one soon!
    

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 07:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A while back we had a chance to test the Bosch 18V cordless band saw BSH180-01 ($398, Ohio Power Tool) against some of the competition and found it to be a very nice tool. For a long time Milwaukee was the standard but now there are several other players in the field making for some stiff competition.

The Bosch tool was aiming to fill a need for a smaller lighter band saw specifically for overhead work common among electrical and mechanical contractors. The Bosch definitely accomplished its goal at 60% lighter and 40% smaller than the full size Milwaukee M28 0729-21 ($429, Ohio Power Tool) & Makita BPB180 ($476, Amazon) units. The downside of this compact Bosch unit is that the saw opening in only 2.5”x2.5” vs the full size units at 4-3/4”x4-3/4” for larger stock. Also both full size units are 2 speeds with variable speed trigger while the compact Bosch is single speed at 530 SFPM.

The Bosch is not alone in the super compact area however DeWalt is also coming out with a similarly sized unit to the Bosch we got to see at the 2010 STAFDA DeWalt booth visit. The real surprise player in the field is the Stout X-band ($258, Amazon) band saw. You may have seen a late night infomercial on this unit which runs on cheaper Ni-Cd batteries and is clearly a lower quality/priced item. Despite its lower quality it has been somewhat popular and the fact that it can works with a unique chop saw style stand is also a big selling point for this unit.  

Having used all the competitors, minus the DeWalt, we really feel the Bosch BSH180 is a very strong contender, the weight/balance is terrific and it makes this tool a very comfortable one handed tool. For serious work a corded band saw is going to be doing most of the cutting, a cordless would be for small jobs or tight spaces and the Bosch is the clear winner there. Our one complaint would be that the Bosch uses a 28.75” blade which nobody else uses so blades will be much trickier to find than the standard 44.875” or even the compact 30” several others use.

If you should have questions about any Bosch 18V tools give the guys at Ohio Power Tool, 800-242-4424, a call and they will be happy to help. Also if you will be in the Columbus area for any reason stop in during May or June and get a FREE Power Box 360 (see link for details) with the BSH180-01 along with a few other goodies.
     

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 05:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last night we were lucky enough to get to go to the Cleveland Indians game vs Red Sox where Ridgid was doing several midgame contests featuring the lovely Ridgid Calendar Girl Ashley Ann Vickers (Jan/Feb 2011). She had thrown out the first pitch the previous day, played “guess that tool” and got on air with the local sports talk radio station several times. From our brief opportunity to talk she’s seemed liked a really cool, down to earth girl who is possibly even better looking in person, if that's possible.

You should really get out and meet her... seriously, well her or one of her other 11 Calendar Girl friends at a Ridgid Reputation Roadshows in a city near you. These shows are great opportunities to see all the new Ridgid tools, get some good grub, win Ridgid gear and everyone walks away with a FREE signed 2011-2012 Ridgid Calendar ($14/FREE, Ohio Power Tool). Lots of fun for a weekday afternoon. 

Here is the 2011 Ridgid Roadshow Schedule & photo gallery. And we are fully expecting a Columbus, Ohio stop in 2012, luckily I know a good spot they can host it! 

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 05:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This is a pretty interesting new take on a tape measure from Johnson Level that incorporates many of the basic features of a speed square into the tape measure itself. The Stud Squared 1812-0025 (coming soon) measures just like any other tape however the measurement of the tape itself is unique, exactly 1 stud width (1.5”) by 2 stud widths (3”). It also has a lip on each side and strait edges to mark your work surface once it has been measured. The only drawback we found was for those use to carrying their tape on a clip unfortunately this design leaves no room for a clip.

If we failed terribly at explaining the benefits of this tape measure don’t worry thanks to the wonders of the internet it is all explain very nicely in the YouTube video below.     

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 01:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Available in the UK already this new Bosch 12V reciprocating saw will be available in the states any day now. Here it will be called the PS60-2A and cost around $159 for the kit with 2 batteries and charger. If you were thinking it looks very similar to the Milwaukee Hacksaw you would be correct. Bosch was pretty cleaver and shortened it slightly and made the stroke slightly more aggressive which means the Bosch is now the smallest and fastest 12V recip saw on the market. Having used both they are really very very similar and man, the boys at Milwaukee must be steaming.  

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 08:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A short time ago Makita launched the first 12V Lithium-ion Circular Saw on the market. It is a specialty tool because of its small wheel size but none the less a very capably tool to have in the arsenal. Just a few days ago Makita expanded their 12V line again and introduced a 3/8” impact WT01W ($154, Amazon). This new tool is also available in several new kits including a nice 3 tool combo kit with a drill/driver and flashlight LCT309W ($205, Amazon).

Makita is not the first to come out with a 12V cordless 3/8” impact as both Milwaukee & DeWalt have similar units with about equal torque, priced at $159. This tool will of course be a welcome addition to anyone who already has Makita 12V tools or anyone considering getting into their 12V tool line. Plus it’s not like you can get a 12V vacuum cleaner with DeWalt or Milwaukee.    
   

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 03:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Because the tent is set up airtight the interior is sterile after construction and ideal for an emergency medical facility. These structures can also be set up end to end to create one long building. The down side of these structures is the price tag which is currently $16,000 each. The good news, the designers say, is if demand/production should increase that price would come down significantly.

We really think this is only the tip of the iceberg for what the potential might be for this dry concrete canvas material. There are many construction applications a material like this would be an ideal solution to easily set up, then simply get wet for a permanent hold. We will definitely keep a close eye on this technology and see how new products develop. You can read more and watch the video of the complete setup on the BBC website.  

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We have been fans of the Makita 4 pole sliding miter saws since we first got to test out the LS1016L a few years back. Where initially we thought it might not be that sturdy this design really seem to hold up very well and makes the whole unit more compact. While there have been NiCd cordless miter saws, the LXSL01 is the first lithium-ion miter saw we can think of. It still will not truly replace a larger corded miter saw but it definitely has some advantages.

The LXSL01 cordless miter saw does come with 2 Makita 18V LXT batteries and should be available soon. Price for the tool only version LXSL01Z is currently $594 on Amazon. For more information about this saw check out the full Makita press release below.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 10:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Milwaukee Tools now has a cordless M12 rotary tool which basically goes right after the cordless Dremel rotary tool we reviewed last year. The Milwaukee rotary tool kit 2460-21 ($99, Ohio Power Tool) only includes (1) Red Lithium battery which you really want two or more with a tool like this but with such a wide offering already it makes sense to keep the price down and offer their current users more tool versatility. The M12 rotary is also available in tool only 2460-20 ($79, Ohio Power Tool) but at only a few bucks more it makes sense to get the extra battery and charger.  

In comparison to the cordless Dremel tool, Milwaukee has a few advantages; first they gave it a little more RPM speed (30k vs 32k) although neither tool gives a power or torque rating. Second the Milwaukee tool can use the larger M12 XC Red Lithium Battery ($69, Ohio Power Tool) which would be very handy with a tool like this. Third and probably the largest selling point is the wide range of Milwaukee M12 tool options in the line that just keeps growing. Since the Milwaukee rotary can use any competitors 1/32”-1/8” shank accessories it makes a very strong argument for staying in the M12 line.

In addition to some of the great Milwaukee M12 tools we have seen come out this year there are rumors of even more coming soon, including “automotive solutions”, we will probably know more soon but Milwaukee seems dedicated to having an M12 tool for every job. For more info on the Milwaukee Rotary Tool read the full press release below.              

MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation continues to expand the versatility of their M12™ LITHIUM-ION system with the introduction of the M12™ Rotary Tool. Featuring an exclusive integration of high-performance motor design, optimized electronics and REDLITHIUM™ battery technology*, the new tool provides a compact and portable cut-off solution for the professional.

“Although rotary tools are used by all trades for cutting and shaping in close quarters, cordless models have traditionally lacked the power and durability expected by the professional,” says Corey Dickert, Associate Product Manager, Cordless for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. “Leveraging Milwaukee’s heritage in straight and die grinders, the M12™ Rotary Tool features a powerful motor, grinder-style exhaust ports, and a unique design to protect the front bearing from contaminants like drywall dust. These key features not only allow the tool to exceed performance expectations, but ultimately provide up to 10X longer life.”

With a variable speed of 5,000-32,000 RPMs and a collet that is completely compatible with all 1/32" -1/8" shank accessories, the new tool delivers thousands of cutting, grinding, sanding and polishing solutions that a user would expect from a traditional rotary tool. With a new class of power, performance and run-time, it then goes a step further to delivers a unique, close-quarter cut-off and grinding solution for Maintenance Contractors, Electricians, Plumbers and Automotive Mechanics.

With constant innovation in Lithium-Ion, MILWAUKEE® continues to expand its leadership position in the sub-compact category. With over 30 tools currently in the system, the M12™ platform is the largest sub-compact system in the industry, offering innovative solutions in power, productivity, and portability.

Specifications (2460-21)
5,000-32,000 RPM
1/8” Collet
Length: 9.5”
Weight: 1.3lbs
Includes 2460-20 M12™ Rotary Tool, (1) M12™ RED LITHIUM™ Battery, (5) Cutting Wheels, Mandrel, Wrench & 30-Minute Charger

Specifications (2460-20)
5,000-32,000 RPM
1/8” Collet
Length: 9.5”
Weight: 1.3lbs
Includes 2460-20 M12™ Rotary Tool, (5) Cutting Wheels, Mandrel & Wrench
    

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was not that long ago (about 2 years) Milwaukee Tools launched a full line of brand new 4.5” to 9” grinders and they are at it again. With 18 new grinder models just in the 4.5” to 6” category Milwaukee is serious about reclaiming a larger portion of this market. It looks as though the new Milwaukee grinders will replace the existing units with several key improvements including tool free accessory changing, improved internal electronics such as overload protection, soft start and Constant Power Technology. The other critical improvement everyone always wants to see is more power output, which is achieved through either a compact 11amp or 13amp motor. These new grinders will be released a few at a time between June and August.

The current Milwaukee grinders were a big improvement over the older models and honestly this launch came as a bit of a shock to us because they seem to be doing pretty well. This is a clear sign of Milwaukee’s commitment to continual improvement, while other brands who may currently have larger market share put out the same old models. We will know soon enough how well these new grinders fair against the competition but we suspect Milwaukee has their sights set pretty high on this one. For more details and products specs check out the full Milwaukee Press Release below.

MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation continues to demonstrate a focused commitment on metal working with the launch of 18 Small Angle Grinders in 2011 that deliver up to 3X more durability and up to 50% more power than the competition. With an unrelenting determination to develop new technologies that deliver best in class durability, power, and ease-of-use, each new grinder will feature a revolutionary motor technology that redefines true productivity.

“Until now, grinders on the market have excelled at one of three things: durability, power or ease-of-use,” says Andrew Plowman, Product Manager for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. “With our new cutting-edge electronics, patent pending motor technology and a 100% tool free design, these new grinders deliver unbeatable durability, power and ease-of-use, without the tradeoff.”

Milwaukee's Electronic Advantage includes Overload Protection to maximize motor life, an Electronic Clutch that extends tool life and helps prevent bind-up, Line Lock-Out that prevents automatic start-up after power loss, and Soft Start. Many models also include Constant Power Technology™, which enables the grinder to maintain speed under load for unmatched performance and productivity. In addition, an advanced airflow system allows air to move rapidly through the tool, keeping the motor cool and delivering optimal performance. The engineered L-shape vents protect the motor by blocking debris particles for increased durability and longer life.

Milwaukee's new patent pending motor technology delivers up to 50% more power than the competition.  “With our new technology, we are able to put more copper in any given space,” says Andrew Plowman, “More copper equals more power.”

The 100% tool free design allows users to change all accessories, including hubbed product, without a wrench. A tool-free, burst resistant, adjustable guard allows users to make quick guard installations and adjustments.     

Eight 4-1/2”- 5” Compact Small Angle Grinders, featuring 11 Amp, 1,400 MWO motors will launch in June that are ideal for industrial long duration grinding.  Ten 5”- 6” High Performance Grinders, featuring 13 Amp, 2,100 MWO motors will follow in July/August that are better suited for larger capacity materials that require the highest power available. Each grinder delivers industry leading durability, power and ease of use as it joins a legendary line of MILWAUKEE® metalworking products. Milwaukee’s commitment to best-in-class durability is backed by the MILWAUKEE® Heavy-Duty 5-year warranty. 

Specifications (6147-30)
Paddle, Lock-On
4-1/2” Wheel Diameter
11 Amp
1,400 Max Watts Out
11,000 RPM (no load)
5/8”- 11 Spindle Thread
120V cord
Length: 11.57””
Weight: 5.4lbs
Includes 6147-30, 4.5" Type 27 Guard, 4.5" Grinding Wheel, Side Handle, Spanner Wrench, Flanges, Contractor Bag

Specifications (6147-31)
Paddle, No-Lock
4-1/2” Wheel Diameter
11 Amp
1,400 Max Watts Out
11,000 RPM (no load)
5/8”- 11 Spindle Thread
120V cord
Length: 11.57””
Weight: 5.4lbs
Includes 6147-31, 4.5" Type 27 Guard, Side Handle, Spanner Wrench, Flanges

Specifications (6146-30)
Paddle, Lock-On
4-1/2” Wheel Diameter
11 Amp
1,400 Max Watts Out
11,000 RPM (no load)
5/8”- 11 Spindle Thread
120V cord
Length: 11.57””
Weight: 5.4lbs
Includes 6146-30, 4.5" Type 27 Guard, Side Handle, Spanner Wrench, Flanges

Specifications (6146-31)
Paddle, No-Lock
4-1/2” Wheel Diameter
11 Amp
1,400 Max Watts Out
11,000 RPM (no load)
5/8”- 11 Spindle Thread
120V cord
Length: 11.57””
Weight: 5.4lbs
Includes 6146-31, 4.5" Type 27 Guard, Side Handle, Spanner Wrench, Flanges

It seems like the technology keeps changing when it comes to Ridgid SeeSnake Monitors and recording equipment. For a long time VHS was king, well after DVDs were the standard for movie watching. Eventually it all switched over to DVD but now there are several more recording options. The Explorer with microREEL uses SD cards, LT1000 saves direct to a laptop and now the new SeeSnake 12” Monitor CS10 ($3868, Ohio Power Tool) can record directly onto USB thumb drives.

This does not mean the DVD recording option will go away as the DVDPak ($2648, Ohio Power Tool) is definitely still the most common and economical way to leave a customer with a copy of the video. Because DVDs are pennies vs thumb drives at a few bucks a pop we think this will stay the same for the near future but as more of the videos are passed online with emails it may not be an issue that much longer. The CS10 also has a much larger screen at 12.1” and dual battery bay for all day life of the system.

The system also integrates perfectly with the SeeSnake HQ (download free now) which makes it easy to go from the monitor to a computer easily with the thumb drive. From there you can save the job details, send pictures and videos anywhere. Watch the video below for more information on the CS10 but with so many recording options you may also want to consider talking to the SeeSnake experts at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 04:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

And it looks like we have a winner for the craziest looking, most cartoon/video game like new tool for 2011! It is the new HDS60 Dragon Saw ($6952, Ohio Power Tool) and as if it didn’t look scary enough it even has a wicked name. We got to see one in person at this year’s Diamond Products University, a several day training event for professional concrete cutters, and honestly it’s even more impressive in person. This hand held unit can cut up to 16” into concrete and 12” without any overcutting.

The Dragon Saw vs Husqvarna Ring Saw

Right off the bat you will see the Dragon saw uses much larger blades, up to 20”, where the Husqvarna Saw is only at 14”. At almost 6” more in cutting depth this really becomes a much more versatile tool however also twice the price. The biggest complains we have heard with a ring saw has always been the maintenance and skill experience need to operate these units correctly. The Dragon Saw is built differently so the more pressure placed on the blade the tighter the rollers grab vs the ring saws which slips. The slippage leads to more maintenance costs and damage to pricy blades while the Dragon Saw claims it will not slip. The wearable components in the Dragon Saw are also much easier to replace and last 2-5 times as long.

There is little that compares to the effectiveness of the concrete chain saw when it comes to a hand held tool than can cut deep into concrete. However it comes at a price, a big one, often as much as 10 to 20 times more expensive in terms of inch/feet vs a traditional diamond blade. This high price tag means professionals that know what they are doing will use these tools as little as possible, perhaps just to cut the corners of an opening but not the whole opening. This technique saves money but also waists time with multiple tool set ups. The Dragon Saw blades, while still expensive, have the cutting life similar to a traditional blade making them a fraction of the price of a chain saw blade. The water cooling requirement is also 1/5th of that of a chain saw which is very important if containing the mess is a concern.

While this saw is pretty revolutionary it’s not a cure all for all your cutting needs. We are still talking about a 20” diameter blade being held-on by a few rollers. For best results it is recommended to use a 14” gas or electric saw to pre-cut the opening up to 4” deep. For applications such as block wall the saw can be used without pre-cutting but it just takes a little more patience and a steady hand. The Dragon Saw blades are .165” wide and will not bind when used in a pre-cut application. The blade changing takes less than 5 minutes and the saw include all the tools needed. There is also no special adjustments needed to go from the 16” to 20” blades and each blade sold includes a wear plate which should be changed with each blade. Concrete cutting can be tricky business, if you have any questions about the Dragon Saw or any other Diamond Products concrete cutting equipment call the professionals at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Maybe we just spend too much time watching all the same old instructional tool & how-to videos but anytime they can get a little more creative and fun to watch we definitely welcome it. The video does a good job highlighting the Bosch OIS Oscillating Tool Accessories features. At this point it's safe to say people have a pretty good idea of basic oscillating tool functions so it may be time to focus in on the less well know benefits like making crinkle cut fries…

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 03:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 09:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We recently did a review on the Blaklader Bantam workpants and were really impressed how well constructed they were, perfect for any jobsite conditions. While the Blaklader folks are fully committed to building solid clothes for the professional tradesman they probably also realize there is not that much to improve on a tee shirt. Instead it looks like they are having a little fun with it and letting some of the thousands of fans of their products submit some of their own design work.

You can submit your own Blaklader Tee Shirt design by following the guidelines below. The winner takes home $250 but more importantly you get to wear around a Blaklader tee you designed. If you don't want to design your own at least check out their Facebook page to vote on your favorites.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 05:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

These new SDS-Plus Bosch Bits are specifically made to drill the exact depth of the most popular Drop-In anchors. This is a much better method of installing these type of drop-ins quickly and accurately every time. Joe from www.bethepro.com  does a great job of demonstration how these are used in this YouTube video with the Bosch press release below that. If you are interested in purchasing some of these bits call the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 or get them online under SDS-Plus Bosch Bits.

Posted by Jay Amstutz at 04:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)