Craftsman released its new 12V NEXTEC series of compact power tools before the winter holidays, and performance reviews are starting to roll in. One of the more innovative tools of the Nextec series is Craftsman’s new Hammerhead Auto Hammer. The Auto Hammer’s compact size makes it well suited for areas too tight to swing a traditional hammer, as […]
Kobalt 26pc Palm Ratchet Set
While browsing for something over at Lowes.com, I noticed Kobalt’s 26 piece palm ratchet set. From the looks of it, this set is intended to be highly portable, and includes a small selection of sockets and insert bits. Best of all, the set is priced at $15. We are quite eager to give Kobalt’s palm ratchet a try, but […]
Stanley Quickslide Utility Knife
I’ve been using Stanley’s Quickslide utility knife for about two years now, and it’s still my favorite go-to knife. The Quickslide is a great knife because: i) the blade extends and retracts quickly and easily, ii) blade changes are also quick and easy, and iii) it is super-compact and can be carried comfortably in a pocket or clipped securely […]
Gearwrench Magnetic Extension Review
If you find that you often need to use tape, putty, or shims to hold fasteners inside of sockets, then you will definitely want to consider Gearwrench’s new magnetic drive accessories. Gearwrench’s new magnetic lineup includes 6″ extensions, universal-joint adapters, and drive-size adapters, all available in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive. In this review, we put Gearwrench’s 6″ magnetic extensions to the test – read on for a detailed […]
Update – Obvious Soft-Handled Vise-Grip Country-of-Origin Info
The other day, ToolGuyd described one way of checking the country-of-origin of a pair of soft-handled Vise-Grips. Well, it has come to light (thanks Elroy) that there is a MUCH simpler method that requires simply checking looking at the adjustment screw.
Montezuma Portable Toolbox
Montezuma’s portable toolboxes are compartmentalized in such a way that every tool and accessory is visible and within immediate reach. These extremely well designed toolboxes are well suited for both portable and static tool storage and organization. In addition to great functionality, these toolboxes also have a superb look and feel to them!
Hidden Soft Handled Vise-Grips’ Country-of-Origin Info
If you recall from the previous ToolGuyd entry, I mentioned that I was a bit hesitant to try out Irwin’s soft-gripped Vise-Grips. You see, I like knowing where a tool is made, but that’s pretty hard to do when half the tool is covered up. Well, it seems like soft-gripped Vise-Grips are slow sellers because I […]
“Irwin” Soft Handled Vise-Grips
The reputation of Vise-Grips precedes Irwin’s ownership by quite a few decades. Since Irwin’s acquisition of the Vise-Grip label, there have been many changes – some good, some bad. One of the improvements was the addition of soft-handled grip options – such a seemingly minor feature makes these pliers much more comfortable to use.
Craftsman “Digital” Micrometers
These hybrid micrometers are somewhat of a cross between standard vernier micrometers and those with electronic readouts, and offer quick measurements at a relatively low price. Although the “digital” claim is quite literally true, in today’s age, “digital” implies an electronic readout. While we’re not comfortable still seeing these described as “digital” micrometers, such a description is still common practice […]
Stanley Powerlock Tape Measure Review
It can be quite tough to find a good tape measure these days – unless you have access to a Stanley Powerlock, that is. Powerlocks have a classic no-frills look and feel which make them easily recognized amongst hobbyists and pros alike. Although tape measures are extremely ubiquitous, they’re not all built the same. In fact, there are […]
Megapro Driver Review
Megapro’s wide range of multi-bit screwdrivers, bits, and accessories, are sure to meet most of your portable driving needs. Currently, there are 7 drivers with different bit assortments based on bit type or common usage – hex, tamperproof, and automotive to name a few. Each screwdriver comes with 7 double-sided bits and a 1/4″ hex driver, but you can also […]