We spotted this article in the Tools of the Trade blog yesterday and we very intrigued about turning an old contractor’s table saw into a new fully functional stationary table saw. By taking the old table saw mechanism apart and repurposing it along with pouring a solid concrete countertop and several 28” drawer slides it really comes together nice and on a budget.
Continue reading "Hacking a Makita Table Saw – Tools of the Trade" »
As OSHA and EPA get tougher on regulations and penalties it is a fairly safe bet there is no such thing as over cautious when it comes to dust containment. All the power tool manufacturers are getting on board with more solutions to work with traditional tools as well as building in more dust collection features on new units. Here are just a few of the highlights we saw from the recent STAFDA trade show.
Makita Dust Collection
There were a few interesting new dust collection items in the Makita booth. The common focus this year was on drilling in concrete. The first item we got a look at was the attachment handle which is compatible with most standard chuck and SDS-Plus drills. Once attached the spring loaded nozzle extends out to the drilling site and stays right at the point of contact as the drill moves in.
Continue reading "Dust Collection a Strong Focus at 2011 STAFDA Show" »
We mentioned the overhaul of the Milwaukee Grinders in a recent post and how several of our contacts have been testing them in heavy abuse environments with very positive results. Check out the YouTube video below to see the Milwaukee vs DeWalt vs Makita vs Metabo small angle grinders in action for yourself. These are the 4.5” models cutting into thick steel plate until the motors basically die. The Milwaukee higher 11 Amp motors and overload protection allow the Milwaukee is able to handle the abuse better than it’s counter parts.
Continue reading "Video Test Milwaukee Grinder vs DeWalt vs Makita vs Metabo" »
Continue reading "Makita 18V LXT Latest Additions, 3-Speed Impact & Screw Gun" »
It is amazing to us the battle going on in demolition hammers to get the vibration levels continuously lower. The Dewalt D25960K now is as low as 6.8 m/s² vibration level which is actually lower than many cordless hammer drills on the market. Previously the 42lb Makita HM1317CB ($1170, Ohio Power Tool) had the lowest vibration in the range at 7.2 m/s² and both significantly beat the 35lb Bosch 11335K ($999, Ohio Power Tool) which is probably due for an upgrade in power and vibration control.
Continue reading "Dewalt 40-Pound Demolition Hammer with SHOCKS D25960K" »
Continue reading "Makita 18V LXT Cordless Die Grinder LXDG01 – Full Review" »
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).
Continue reading "Makita Expands Their 12V Cordless Line with New Impact" »
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.
At under 28lbs there is no question, this saw is highly portable and with the 4 pole rail system a very impressive cutting capacity of 2-1/16” deep and 11-3/4” across. That is large enough to do a 90 degree cut in a standard 2x12. Our only real concern with this saw would be the battery life which would be similar an 18V cordless circular saw. For precise cuts like trim and moldings it should do an excellent job and really that is the intent. It is compatible with the Makita 195083-4 ($319, Amazon) miter stand with support brackets which is an excellent stand but is actually 3 times heavier than the saw itself, probably best to leave the stand for your heavier corded miter saw.Continue reading "Makita 18V LXT Cordless 7.5” Miter Saw LXSL01 " »
We have been waiting for Makita to redo their 9.6v cordless 3-3/8” circular saw for some time. This is a very critical tool for some specific users, not for everyone, but for those folks it might as well be made of gold. The new Makita 12V model SH01W ($149, Amazon) replaces that unit while keeping the same size blades with 1” cut capacity (5/8” at 45 degrees).
Doug from ToolSnob reviews the Makita LCT208W ($154, Amazon) 2 tool combo kit which includes the 3-3/8” circular saw as well as the 3/8” chuck drill/driver. Currently that appears to be a steal at only $5 more than the saw alone, plus you get a free holster. We don’t want to spoil the fun but it is a positive review and 99% of the time we are going to accept his reviews as law. But don’t let that stop you from reading it…
ToolSnob - Makita LCT208W 12-Volt Combo Kit (Driver and Circ Saw) - Review
Somehow we missed this when it came out a few months ago in Fine Homebuilding Magazine. It is a very nice detail comparison of 15 major demo blades for wood. Looking at price, TPI, cut speed, cuts, flexibility, etc it really goes deep with each blade. It was pointed out to us while having a discussion about metal cutting blades in Garage Journal forum which is obviously a different kind of blade but though it was a good read anyway. For the full story check it out here at Torture Test – Demolition Blades
You can also purchase a wide variety of demolition and other Sawzall / Reciprocating Blades from the fine people at Ohio Power Tool.
We have previously mentioned some of the new products from Bosch & DeWalt at the World of Concrete 2011 but we certainly have not forgotten about Makita Power Tools who showed up with an impressive outdoor set up and several new products. Not to mention all the Rockstar, Motocross, Makita Girl flair we have come to expect. Also check out this photo album from the Matika outdoor booth from World of Concrete 2011.
"Makita offers a full range of solutions to the concrete pro, including rotary and demolition hammers, grinding and surfacing solutions, concrete power cutters, accessories, diamond blades, and more," said Wayne Hart, Communications Manager, Makita USA. "Makita power tools deliver industrial strength performance with less vibration in a more compact size, and are engineered to beat up the concrete, not the end user. World of Concrete is a great opportunity to present our latest best-in-class tools and let contractors feel the difference for themselves."
Continue reading "Makita Power Tools at World of Concrete 2011" »
At the STAFDA (Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association) tradeshow this week Hougen is launching a new 18V cordless Metal Punch with a capacity up to ¼” steel plate. The Hougen 76000 ($2248, Ohio Power Tool) weighs only 16.5lbs and will be a real blessing for many folks on the job site. As you can see from the picture above this unit will use the Makita 18V Lithium Ion 3.0Ah batteries which charge to full strength in under 30 minutes and is readily available throughout the country.
Continue reading "Hougen Ogura New 18V Cordless ¼” Metal Punch 76000" »
The Bosch Brute Breaker has been the most popular Jack Hammer since the late 70’s but unfortunately hasn’t really changed that much in the past 30 years. That all changed today as the new Brute model BH2760VCD ($1599, Ohio Power Tool) is officially launched (we are calling it Brute 2 to keep things clear). This next generation breaker brings an incredible 60% more impact energy at the same time reducing the vibration by 50% in addition to several added features to improve service.
Unfortunately what happened while the Bosch Brute 11304 was sitting on top of the hill as king Demolition Breaker, DeWalt and Makita have produced similar breakers with newer technology reduced vibration while increasing force and Bosch found themselves with an out of date product. The Bosch Brute 2 of course reclaims the thrown beating out all the competition in nearly every possible way. Below is a rough breakdown of the stats.
Continue reading "New Bosch Brute BH2760VCD vs DeWalt vs Makita AVT Breakers" »
At the World of Concrete apparently we spent too much time talking to the Makita girls and totally missed the new addition to the Makita’s Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) technology breaker line. The AVT line has been very successful in the construction world and as the US (aka California then maybe everyone else) starts to adopt 2005 European Vibration Laws or some form of them there is going to be an even bigger push in that direction. If you are currently looking to purchase a SDS-Max rotary hammer drill or hex shank demolition breakers it is possible a few years from now you may not be able to “legally” use the tool or at least have limited time per day, if it doesn’t meet new codes. The new Makita AVT HM1317CB ($1,170, Ohio Power Tool) is the latest addition in their AVT line up with many exciting features in addition to the low vibration and ease of use. Checkout the full Makita Press Release below.
Continue reading "New Makita 42lb AVT Demolition Hammer HM1317CB" »
You may remember the 10” Makita LS1016L we took a look at several months ago. This saw added cut capacity while cutting the actual overall tool profile, making it much friendlier to use. I was really impressed at the time and the obvious question was when does the 12” come out? Chris over at Tool-Rank.com tipped us off today and has all the stats up on his site as well. It looks like it shares many of the innovative features of the 10” but the capacity is obviously larger, up to 8” crown molding (nested). I look forward to getting my grubby little paws on one of these soon because it could be a serious contender for my next miter saw.
The LS1216L will be available shortly from Ohio Power Tool with all the other Makita Benchtop Saws. If you have any specific questions feel free to call 800-242-4424 or email sales@ohiopowertool.com.
New from Makita is the Autofeed Screwdriver 6844 ($267.60 Ohio Power Tool) some innovative new features have been combined into this screw gun. Tool-less screw depth adjustment and a capacity of 1-3/4” – 2-15/16” screws make this a very versatile tool. The D-handle and motor placement make the tool very comfortable for extended use and well balanced for working in any position. Dust proof construction and ridgid aluminum casting keep the slide working smooth for the life of the tool. Other features like lock-on trigger, belt clip and anti-tilt make this new Makita one to consider when looking for a new fastening tool. The extension handle 194500-1 ($84 Ohio Power Tool) would be the one accessory to consider which makes the tool even more versatile for many fastening applications.
From time to time I like to look at the top professional tools brands and see what they are up to. Typically I’ll go to their various social media outlets to get the updates and I had a though, why not have one place and make it easy to find them all or better yet pit them against each other in a virtual Battle Royal.
Why is social media important for a power tool company? Obviously it’s important for any company to be involved in the communication about their own products. Please make it as easy as possible for us to get info on your company, events, promos, new tools and accessories. Probably one of the best examples of a power tool company using social media (although not part of the showdown) would be the Ridgid Forum, here you get real professionals, company reps and lots of others asking talking about new products, applications, issues, events, etc. Why can’t all of them just have awesome forums where we can talk tools.
Milwaukee Tools – FaceBook – YouTube – Twitter
For years it seemed like Milwaukee Tools was perhaps a little behind the times, they were first out with V28 tools with success but also had some misses. Over the past two years however I have been very impressed with what I have seen from the Red camp. With lots of very innovative new products and some real excitement all the way down the line these guys have good focus on professional customers and do a good job of getting info out in many different channels.
Makita Tools – FaceBook – YouTube – Twitter
Makita Tools I think has understood the idea of being involved directly with customers for some time. Not only do they do a good job online but they tie it all in very nicely with their direct promotions/sponsorships in motor sports, MLS Soccer, the 53’ Experience Makita semi-truck, contests, sweepstakes and of course Miss Makita 2010 & Senorita Makita 2010. If there were a high school for power tools, Makita would probably be the coolest kid in class.
DeWalt Tools – FaceBook – YouTube – Pro Blogs
The Yellow brand is by far the most popular of any tool brand and has been for years. They are focused on FaceBook and YouTube with plenty of good videos available on both. The Pro Blogs are a nice feature of their site. They also tie their online outreach in with DeWalt Racing & NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth which helps get more user/fans involved.
Bosch Tools – (Social What Now)
It is kind of surprising Bosch doesn’t do more with social media. I feel like they do a great job getting info out to magazines and other traditional media. They have innovative new products and build product specific sites like www.boschdaredevil.com so obviously not afraid of being online. They are also good about getting info to other bloggers for new products. The lack of social media has got to be by design and perhaps they just don’t like to toot their own horns but it sure would make it easier for the rest of us to stay up on their products, promos, events, etc.
Who wins… got to give credit to the DeWalt for this one, mainly for their Facebook Page which has a ton of user interaction (and better weapons, photo for the DeWalt M16 from the Facebook page). I’m going to call second place a tie between Makita & Milwaukee, which is kind of a coop-out but I really have trouble picking here. Both are doing some good things in different areas but how do I pick between innovative new products and Miss Makita. Bosch takes a back seat for this round. Social media obviously has zero impact on tool quality but if you use it I guess you expect everyone else to as well.
The New 10” Miter Saw from Makita LS1016L is now available and I was lucky enough to get a chance to demo this unit. I had seen different marketing and press information on this unit and to be honest I had pretty high expectations when I finally got my hands on it.
Freakin Laser Beams
The unit I had was the LS1016L, which I am assuming the L is for Laser. Makita did some nice things here where they put a micro adjust on the handle, so you can control if you want the laser on the cut edge or left or right. They also put an on/off switch so you can simply turn it off, brilliant. Let’s spend no more time debating lasers usefulness and simply turn it off if you don’t want to use it.
Sliding Rail System
By having 2 pairs of independent rails, this 4 rail slide system is incredibly compact and does not require a huge work area behind the saw. I tested this unit out on an outdoor workbench behind the shop which would be way to shallow for any other sliding miter saws. This also makes the saw much more compact for travel and easier to carry around. Total weight out of the box is only 52lbs, so that also helped make it easier to lug around. Also either set of rails can also be locked if you don’t need all that travel. Each rail features 6 linier ball bearing and while I’m not sure what other saws have I can tell you the sliding motion on the Makita is exceptional smooth and very sturdy.
Working the Angles
The one touch miter locking system is very clever and easy to use. There are the standard set positions but it is also incredibly easy to lock the saw into any other measurement simply by letting up on the trigger once you have it in position. It does a real nice job of holding the angle, even before you tighten it down. The scale has also been moved to the front, where it should be. The bevel angle is also very easy to adjust using the large rear handle which is very accessible from either side of the saw. The 4-3/4” dual sliding fence features a top and bottom adjustment on either side to really get the perfect support when making beveled cuts.
Making the Cut
This is a of course a 10” saw but is has some features that make it work as good as or even better than a 12” in some cases. The clearance height allows for 4-3/4” vertical clearance or 6-5/8” nested, for crown moldings. The powerful 15 amp motor is angled and out of the way for a clear line of sight on the work surface. The slide action allows for the LS1016L to cut a full 12” wide cross cut at 90 degrees. The electronic speed control maintains the 3,200 RPM speed under load and the Soft Start feature made it very smooth to operate.
Added Touches
Some additional features that make the Makita saw easy to operate are the little extras like the vertical clamp. This clamp can easily be moved around to several fixed locations on the saw and you do not need to secure it to the saw in anyway. As you tighten the clamp to the material it automatically tightens itself to the saw. I could lift the whole saw by the clamp but the second you loosen the material, the clamp is again free to move to another location on the saw. Also I thought it was pretty cool that they made the work surface 4.5”, the exact height of 3 stacked 2”x4”. So for about $2 you can make yourself an extended work supports in a pinch.
Conclusion
Overall the Makita DXT 10" Miter Saw LS1016L lived up to my high hopes. I was really impressed by the quality of production with the heavy base and just an all around solidly built tool. This has got to be one of the best 10” miter saws on the market today and could hold its own against many 12” saws. Priced at $589 on OhioPowerTool.com, which is very reasonable for a professional quality miter saw like this.
Makita is the official Power Tool of Major League Soccer and from July 1 – September 30th, 2009 you can ENTER TO WIN a VIP trip for 2 to see your favorite MLS team play an away game. The prize includes hotel accommodations, VIP field experience and VIP seating. The runner up “first place” prize is a Makita LXT Lithium 4 tool combo kit and a framed MLS jersey of your choice. The contest doesn’t cost anything to enter and should only take a few seconds to fill out and pick your favorite MLS team.
Personally I am becoming a bigger fan of MLS soccer and not just because the Columbus Crew won the 2008 MLS Cup. The games are really fun to go to and I think the sport in general is picking up fans across the board. If you aren’t a MLS fan, I am guessing you are at least a fan of power tools so it’s still worth the time to register. Good Luck.
Until the end of April if you purchase any of these selected tools show below you get your very own Casey Trailer, Miss Makita 2009! April fools… You actually get the MSR gear she is wearing or your choice of LXT cordless tools.
View the PDF Mail-in Rebate for complete list of tools in offer. For more information you can also visit www.makita.com.
The chart above shows website traffic to each company’s main website. It doesn’t take into consideration tool sales, units sold, product specific websites (ie boschedge.com, boschdaredevil.com, etc) or any other outside factors. The graph simply measures web traffic reported from a 3rd party source. In my mind this is a good measure of what is popular and the overall trend of how a company is doing. Overall I think it is pleasantly surprising that the lines weren’t all strait down. Watch the news or read the paper and all you hear is about how the sky is falling, the economy is in the tank and we are all going back to the dark ages but the year over year numbers are up for 3 out of 4 of the largest power tool companies. Again these are just web traffic numbers and not sales or profit numbers, but that’s still pretty positive I think.
The obvious thing that jumps out is what’s going on with Dewalt? Historically it’s been arguably the most popular tool brand, with tons of very loyal customers however recently the talk in forums has been a little more on the sour side. Black & Decker now owns Dewalt as well as Porter Cable and the overall perception I have read from loyal users is that the quality has definitely come down. The die hard Porter Cable guys are possibly the most unhappy (unfortunately they don’t have their own website; it’s a shared site with Delta and other products so we can’t look at it in the chart). Years ago Porter Cable was considered one of the highest quality professional tool brands on the market, now they are comparable to Ryobi, better for a DIY occasional user.
The second thing that jumped out to me is that Bosch Tools is up 95% in web traffic from last year. That is awesome! There have been some exciting new products including a completely new 18V cordless line, new 12V Max tool and a wide array of new accessories but overall I don’t think this is what is driving the gains. The brand remains very strong, continues to make a high quality product, great innovations in their new products, good marketing and very few layoffs while other companies in general have seen cuts across the board.
Milwaukee Tools also had some serious gains of 26% in web traffic from the previous 12 months. They had probably the biggest product launches with the new M18 lithium ion line and M12 lithium tool line. Both lines I would consider very successful launches.
Makita Tools also had modest gains but without a new complete line of tools to launches I think they did a good job in keeping traffic up with the new products they did have as well as strong promotions and relationships with MLS, Suzuki, Rockstar and sponsored events.
Overall I think these numbers are pretty positive and sure lots of people are just window shopping but I think it’s a good look at the overall popularity of the brands and the trends. There are plenty of other tool brands to compare or you might want to see your site’s traffic compared to your competitors, I would strongly encourage anyone to do some comparisons of your own at www.compete.com.
The sweepstake does not require any purchase just fill out the very short form and you are in. If you are worried about get emails from them simply check the box “NO” about emails and they won’t send you anything. The grand prize is 2 motorcycles (RM-Z 450 & RM-Z 250) and 2 Quads (QuadSport Z400 & KingQuad 750AXi) total package is worth $27,000. Not sure why they didn’t spread the love around and do 4 separate prizes but the winner and 3 of his buddies are going to be very happy. Contest ends June 30th and rules say 1 entry per person, per email. Take the next 40 seconds of your life and fill it out, when you win and want to thank me just send one of your new toys, quad or bike I'm not picky.
Check it out: Makita Feel Innovation Sweepstakes
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