Best Guide to Tools

By Dakota Caudilla

Ever heard the saying ‘women want babies, men want power tools!’ – it’s true. Most men would trade their remote controls just to have the coolest and most technologically advanced power tools there are in the market. in fact, I know of one man who would instantly trade his car in just to have the Bosch 1” SDS-plus BullDog Xtreme Rotary Hammer. BullDog Xtreme seems to have stolen the limelight from many other equally cool power tools from other power tool manufacturers. Even brands under the same power tool manufacturer dimmed in light of the launching of BullDog Xtreme.

Not to mention, some men happen to think that the Dewalt DW723 Miter Saw and the power tool stand are the best creation of man ever since beer was invented! A power tool like the Dewalt DW723 needs a sturdy stand that is versatile, stable and complete.

If you’re looking for a power tool like a drill that will fit into little nooks and crannies, let us tell you that the Panasonic 15.6 Volt drill/driver has been receiving rave reviews from the consumers. The batteries for this power tool can last a remarkably long time. The motor for this power tool is so versatile that it packs up to 390 inch-pounds of torque. It’s hard to find another power tool to match that, frankly speaking.

Speaking of drilling, for power tools addicts, you’ve just got to get the Paslode 900420X IM350-CT Impulse Cordless Framing Nailer. The Contractor’s Performance Pack comes with extra batteries, tools for charging the nailer in your car, 2 fuel cells, lube oil, degreaser cleaner and safety goggles too. This power tool pack is truly going to make your experience a very convenient one. Setting the power tool up is a no brainer and on top of that, this powerful power tool is extremely light – weighing in at only 6.9 lbs. This power tool has an indicator light so that you’ll know when the battery is running low. The cycle rate rate is about 2 to 3 nails per second. Top performance power tool! With the Constructor’s Performance Pack, you don’t have to worry about running out of power because you can charge the power tool’s battery up and when one battery runs out, you can just stick the extra battery into the power tool and just keep on going.

For power tool lovers, you’ll also love the Makita 6347DQDE 18-Volt Cordless Driver-Drill kit. This power tool kit comes is a 2-speed driller that is as versatile as it comes. This power tool comes with 2-batteries (no extra charge), Phillips/slotted bit, charger and an Pack-and-Carry case. This power tool comes with 2 18-Volt Ni-MH batteries, therefore, you can expect a longer run time with this power tool. This power tool also comes with Industrial ½” keyless chuck with easy replacement of brushes.

Have fun with your power tools!

By Andrew Strachan

The power tools of today are not the same as the ones that were carefully placed on the pegboard near your grandfather’s workbench- they are actually quite far from it. Modern technology has made amazing advances in the simplest of features, including automatic shut-off, enhanced guarding and more resilient materials just to name a few. But one trait has come to be worth its weight in gold within the power tool industry, and that’s the owner’s manual.

Today’s manuals not only have better graphics showing its users what each part of the device should look like (and what to do when it doesn’t), many individual manufacturers will have explicit directions and instructions for the safety and maintenance of each individual power tool. Of course, no instructions are completely fool proof, especially if the content of such manuals isn’t completely understood by the user. This is why many manufacturers have implemented training seminars and classes for both companies and individuals on the proper procedures for optimum performance and safety. Local home improvement stores often hold such classes and seminars on a regular basis.

However, a bit of common sense and know-how never hurt anyone, so there are a few safety guidelines which should be followed by all users of power tools. For example, wearing the proper clothing is essential, and you should never wear loose clothing that could easily get caught in a power tool. Safety gear is crucial- hard hat, safety goggles and gloves, along with the proper footwear. Using the right tool, whether it be size or something else, for the job at hand, including the right type of extension cord (indoor, outdoor, proper length) if applicable. The work area should be clean, uncluttered and well lit. Keep all electric tools away from water and flammables. Do not use power tools with frayed or damaged cords. Damaged parts anywhere in a power tool, including saw blades and drill bits, can cause damage to the tool itself or the individual performing the task. Unplug all electric power tools when finished with or before changing to another tool.

As far as the maintenance aspect of such power tools, common sense is again of the highest importance. For example, making sure that the proper guards are placed on saw blades when not in use is both a safety and maintenance issue. Saw blades need to be sharp to deliver the best performance possible, but can also be incredibly dangerous, so taking the proper preventive measures will yield the best results in all aspects, not just project outcome.

For more information on power tool basics, the U.S. government has many publications that can be of high value to consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers product recall information, and OSHA has a few such publishings regarding both general industry and personal use of power tools.