Husqvarna 562XP Chainsaw - First Look

New Innovations from Bosch Tools

DeWALT Impact Clutch Accessory Holder

Drills

Our Favorites From DeWALT's New Product Launch

Last week, I had the pleasure of traveling to Baltimore for DeWALT's new product launch. I had a basic familiarity of the brand, but it was fascinating to dive more into the company's history, methodology and what they're doing to produce functional, innovative tools that help people work better and faster. Plus, I got to indulge my inner DIY freak in the company's testing area (mitre saw, anyone?)

DeWALT_20VCordlessCompactDrill.JPG

We saw lots of great new products during the two-day event, so I thought I'd pick out a few of my favorites. I'd say the biggest news from DeWALT is the launch of their new 20 volt MAX cordless line, which will be available later this summer. The new line was created from several trends, including a continued growth in the 10.8 and 12 volt categories, as well as the ongoing evolution of lithium ion technology.

DeWALT has made a sizable commitment to investing in the company's cordless line and, over the last three years, has doubled their engineering resources for cordless development.

Benefits of the 20 volt MAX line include unprecedented performance, ergonomic design and innovative features, according to a DeWALT presentation.

Katy drills Dewalt 20v Drill

My personal favorite? The 20 volt MAX lithium ion compact drill/driver, which has been completely redesigned from the ground up. Features include an ergonomic handle, LED work light, compact size, high-speed transmission and a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck. I love the compact size, but also think the line's impact driver is a must-have for your collection.

Read more Read more image

Tools Katy Ryan | Comments () |

Craftsman NEXTEC 12V Right Angle Impact Driver Review

craftsman-impact-driver-right-angle-closeup.jpg

The latest tool in the Craftsman NEXTEC line is the Right Angle Impact Driver. This is a fairly new category of cordless power tools and the Craftsman model is a definite stand out compared to some of the other multi-tool options.

Hits: Svelte handle, power
Misses: LED light only on when tool is powered, forward-reverse toggle loose
Uses: Right angle design allows you to get into tight spaces that standard drills won't

Power to burn
Right angle impact drivers are tools that we never thought we needed but now can't live without. They are great for working on automobiles because you can squeeze them into tight spaces and the low-profile handle is thin but feels durable.

This will definitely save your wrist and you can switch from driving screws to using as a ratchet very easily. It works with 1/4" quick connect and has a 1/2" adapter.

This impact driver is simple to use and changing bits is extremely easy. The battery indicator light is super bright and located at the back of the handle. The long trigger is also easy to use and at 12-volts the unit delivers 700 in./lbs of torque at 2100 rpm.

craftsman-right-angle-impact-driver.jpg

Read more Read more image

Tools Charles & Hudson | Comments () |

Support Our Advertisers

Want to be seen on Charles & Hudson? Advertise with us.

-->

Cordless Drill/Driver Buying Guide

ridgid-cordless-drill-driver.jpg

Cordless drills/drivers should be included in any list of required do-it-yourself tools. The applications and uses are endless and they are extremely simple to use. If you're going with the convenience of cordless you can use the tool to drill holes and easily change bits to drive screws with the added bonus of not having to look for outlets near your workspace.

We've written this handy buyers guide for choosing a drill/driver that works best for you. We'll start with drill/driver features and then move into applications and cost.

Grip
Drill/drivers are setup as a pistol grip with the trigger activating the tool. These grips can vary in size, surface material and comfort. It's important to get a good feel for the tool before purchasing it. Grab the drill and move your wrist around and even hold the tool above your head. Note how heavy it is and if it feels awkward to move in any direction.

The grip should also be secure and the surface should be of a non-slip material. DIY work leads to sweaty palms and you don't want your drill slipping from your hand.

Also feel for the drill/driver directional button which should be near your thumb and easily depressed with one finger in each direction.

Clutch
The clutch is the adjustable dial located at the end of your drill just before the area where your drill bit attaches which is the chuck. The clutch serves as a backstop that disengages when too much resistance is felt and gives you control so you don't strip a screw or overdrive it once your screw is tight. The motor will also last longer with a properly adjusted clutch.

You may see clutch settings from 10-28. Usually the higher setting the better as it allows you to really fine tune the settings for drilling tiny screws to larger and heavier screws. Most clutches will also have a drill setting that will lock the bit into place and drive the motor at full power.

Read more Read more image

Tools Charles & Hudson | Comments () |

Top 5 New Tools for Your Wish List

top_tools.jpg

Envy. Awe. Uncontrollable desire. Warning - you may experience all of these things when you get a load of these tools. New to the market or just improvements to tried and true favorites, these tools are true must-haves.

OK, get a grip on yourself and try not to drool.

Read more Read more image

Tools Diana Dart | Comments () |

 

Categories



Watch our videos on YouTube Our photos on Flickr Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook

 

 

Copyright © 2012 Charles & Hudson LLC All Rights Reserved | Contact | Privacy Policy