Swanson, best known for their ubiquitous Speed Square design, is launching a new line of professional hand tools under the Savage brand name. Here’s a quick preview of some of the new tools you can expect to see in 2012.
Savage Illuminated Levels
These new lighted levels will be available in 24″ and 48″ lengths. Each features 3 LED-lit vials, a continuous uninterrupted rail, “SuperShock” endcaps, and a durable extruded box aluminum frame.
Savage Box-Beam & I-Beam Levels
There will also be an expanded line of non-illuminated box-beam and I-beam levels with magnetic and non-magnetic bases. We counted 23 different models, from 18″ to 96″ in length.
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Savage Torpedo Levels
For jobs that don’t require a full-size level, Savage offers 5 torpedo level designs, including a digital level, lighted level, and 3 conventional aluminum levels in 6″, 9″, and 11″ lengths.
Swanson Savage Squares
Okay, so this grouping is a no-brainer. Swanson applied some of their square know-how and developed these new Savage essentials. The new T-bevel that boasts a unique locking mechanism that allows the bevel to be used both ways. From the looks of it, we assume the knob at the bottom of the handle replaces the traditional side-handle lock. Swanson also developed a new combination square that is claimed to be 2X stronger, a try square, builders square, and wallboard square.
Savage Straight Edges
These new straight edges feature a non-slip backing and aluminum construction, with sizes ranging from 24″ to 96″.
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Savage Folding Jab Saw & Utility Knife
The new combination tool is half jab saw, half lock-back utility knife. The jab saw part works with standard reciprocating saw blades and locks in place straight or at an angle.
There’s no word on pricing or availability yet, but we expect for these tools to be widely available.
fred
When I read “designed and engineered in th USA” – I guess that this means that Swanson will have some Asian factory make these. While I’m not a “country of origin freak” I don’t see anything here that will garner my toolbuying dollar
Stuart
That was my thought as well when I saw “designed and engineered in the USA”. I’ll reserve judgement until the tools are released in a couple months and more details emerge.
Still, it’s good to know that the tools were developed in-house.
slipjointed
I do like the idea that it’s not just some rebadge of a product already in manufacture at some overseas factory, but it still doesn’t quite bridge the gap to full blown USA.
chad
these are made in a china factory, a 3rd party factory not even owned by Swanson that makes a lot of tools for cheap brands like Kobalt from Lowes and Husky from home depot
Don Tewell
Question. I received a Savage by Swanson 9″ square. It. has a retractable pin on the handle and I cannot figure out what it is used for. Please help.
Stuart
Is it this one? The description says that it’s a “retractable kickstand.”