Welcome back Tool Fans. Tonight! The new Milwaukee Ratchets take on the old, Scott Recaps 2 years with XGT. My favorite Knife Brand has something new, and we have a new Platinum Tool Deal! PLUS we’ve got new tools announcements from Milwaukee, FLEX, DeWALT, Bosch, and Makita. All that and more, coming up next, on the Tool Show.
Welcome back guys, we’ve got an enormous pile of new tool announcements to dig into, so let’s get started with DeWALT, who announced a pair of new drills for their Atomic Compact Series.
NEW from the DeWALT Atomic Compact Series
That is the DeWALT DCD794 Atomic 20V MAX Brushless ½ inch Drill/Driver, and that is the DCD799 Atomic 20V MAX Brushless ½ inch Hammer Drill. The 794 boasts 404 UWO, which is DeWALTs magic power rating, and spins up to 1,650 rpm, while the 799 produces probably staggering 552 What-zits, the same 1,650 rpm, and over 28,000 bpm. But they can’t be Atomic without being small and powerful. The 794 is only 5.88 inches long, while the 799 measures in at only 6.49 inches. We found the 794 available for pre-order for $159, but the 799 is already on sale at HomeDepot for $189 with a battery, bag and charger.
DeWALT also announced the new DCF845 20V MAX XR ¼ inch 3-speed impact driver that boasts 30% more torque than an old 885. That’s 1,825 inch pounds to be precise, and 3,400 no load rpm. It also has a variable speed trigger, and led work light. The new 845 is currently available for preorder for $149, bare tool.
And last of all from DeWALT, the new DCH911 60V MAX 27lb Cordless SDS MAX Chipping Hammer and the DCH966 38lb 1 ⅛ HEX Breaker Hammer, both of which Rob got to try at World of Concrete. The Chipping Hammer has 27 joules of impact energy, best for horizontal and downward chipping. It’s ideal for wall breaching, channel creation as well as bushing and scarifying. The Breaker on the other hand, claims a substantial 40 Joules of impact energy, aimed at powered digging, channel creation, and slab demolition. Both hammers are designed with wireless tool control and a built in SHOCKS active vibration control system. The hammers will be available in July, 2023.
NEW from BOSCH
Moving on to BOSCH, who is planning to roll out a ton of new tools in the coming months.
That is the Bosch GSR18V-400B22 18V Brushless Drill Driver. It’s a compact drill with a head length of only 6.3 inches, making it easy to control and perfect for tight spaces. It delivers up to 400 inch pounds of torque while weighing in at less that 2lbs.
They also announced the Bosch PROFACTOR 18V 1-5/8″ SDS-max Rotary Hammer, or GBH18V-40CK if you’re a robot. They say it delivers corded hammer performance at 6.7 Ft.-Lbs. of impact energy but only weighs 15.4 Lbs.
Last from Bosch was the new GSS-18V-40 18V Brushless 1/4-Sheet Orbital Finishing Sander, which delivers a high rate of stock removal, claiming corded-like power. It comes in a very compact design, and a balanced grip, keeping the hand close to the workpiece for maximum control. They also have a 12V Version planned, the 12V MAX (GSS12V-40N)
NEW from FLEX
FLEX is still revealing tools from their 3rd wave, and this time included a surprise about that limited-time lifetime warranty.
First we have the new FLEX FX1681-Z, 2 gear ½” Right Angle Drill, which flexes 2,400 inch pounds of torque, at 1,650 rpm, through a magnesium gearbox. It features a Turbo mode for increased power and speed, an ergonomic top handle and rafter hook, and anti kickback technology to keep you safe.
But if space is more of a concern over power, they also announced the new FLEX FX1671-Z 24V Compact Right angle Drill. It may be more compact, but still delivers 1,650 inch pounds of torque at 1,650 rpm. It also has a Magnesium Gear Box, ergonomic top handle and rafter hook.
And finally, the FLEX FX3411-Z Random Orbital Sander with class leading speed, and long run times for heavy-duty applications. Its turbo mode unleashes a class leading 13,000 OPM for fast material removal. It will run for a substantial 30 minutes on speed 3, includes a dust and water resistant switch, and its low profile design gives you easy maneuverability and control, while the pad brake provides 5x more endurance.
All three tools will be available this coming July
Flex also announced their popular lifetime warranty has been extended through 2023, giving you one more chance to start your FLEX collection with the best possible warranty.
NEW from Milwaukee
Milwaukee had a few unusual launches this week, starting with a set of double end flare nut wrenches.
Available in both Standard and Metric, the new Milwaukee Double End Flare Nut wrenches offer easy identification with ink-filled size labels for quick distinction between standards. The slim profile open ends mean better access to hard to reach line nuts and hex bolt heads. The i-beam handle design offers better comfort, even when applying high torque. And just like all of Milwaukee’s Mechanics Hand Tools, these come with a lifetime warranty.
They’re available individually, or in a 5 pc standard or 6 pc metric kit.
Next up Milwaukee’s new REDLITHIUM USB Flashlight, boasting 2,000 lumen in a slide focus setup making it ideal for inspection work. Quickly adjust from flood to spot, and deliver either 100, 800, 1,300 or 2,000 lumens, up to 656 feet away. A full charge will grant you 24, 8, or 4 hours respectively. No mention on how long it can run on the full 2000 lumen boost mode. The IP66 rating can withstand a 13 ft drop, and the USB type C connector will keep you from immediately tossing it out with your old micro-usb versions. Thanks Milwaukee!
And finally, They launched this tiny M12 Brushless 2” planer, which looks awesome. This is something finish carpenters and remodelers have been waiting for. It’s super compact and lightweight at only 3.1lbs, and the 2” wide shoe is perfect for scribing and planing doors. It runs a 2 blade cutter head at 14,500 rpm, and 21 depth settings ranging from 0 to 5/64ths for precise accuracy. The dual sided shavings port lets you direct shavings to either side of the tool, or you can simply use a vac with the universal hose adapter. The Milwaukee 2524 M12 Brushless 2” planer will be available in March for $199.
NEW from Makita
Makita is making a serious push into their 40V Max XGT lineup this year, starting with a set of chainsaws, just in time for Valentine’s Day!
These three new chainsaws once again aim to replace your gas version, this time comparably to a 42cc version. There are two 18in bar versions, the GCU04 with locking bar nuts, and the GCU6 with tool-less chain adjustment, and a 16in model, the GCU05. Each saw is equipped with an efficient brushless motor for long runtimes. The GCU04 can make up to 40 cuts in 12” diameter cedar on a single charge of their XGT 4ah battery. And of course, they all offer lower noise, less maintenance, zero emissions, and not a single pull start in sight.
Next up, the Makita 40V max XGT AVT Rotary Hammer with Dust Extractor. It aims to deliver up to 135 ⅜” holes on a single 4ah battery, and it’s equipped with Makita’s anti-vibration Technology for lower vibrations without compromising performance. It comes with an OSHA Table 1 compliant on-board HEPA Dust Extractor, offering the mobility you need for working on a scissor lift.
We’re also excited to see more 80V max tools, utilizing two XGT 40V batteries, starting with the new GEC01 14” Power Cutter. This monster of a saw competes directly with 75cc gas models, offering a spectacular 5” cutting depth. There are many more new XGT and LXT tools coming that we’ll be covering in the following weeks.
NEW from HILTI
Hilti surprised the industry last year with the launch of their all new Nuron line of cordless power tools. And a year later, they’ve given us a sneak peek at their upcoming product road map, and it’s far bigger than we imagined.
While 2023 should bring 30 new Nuron tools, it looks like that number will continue to go up year over year, for the near future. For now, we got our first look at the new DSH 700-22, a 12 inch Rear-Handle cutoff saw for concrete metal and masonry. We’re talking brick, limestone, asphalt, steel, and more. They say that when equipped with 2 sets of B 22-225 batteries, it can cut up to 30% more than a full tank of gas. It has a huge 4 ¾” cutting depth, but only weighs in at 19.4lbs, or 29.3 with batteries and blade. And of course it comes with all the benefits of battery power, meaning fume-free, quieter, lower vibration cutting, and a fast acting blade brake to bring the power to a stop when you’re done.
Hilti also announced an all new Anchor system this week called Kwik-X. Its’ comprised of the Kwik-Hus Capsule and the Kwik Hus-EZ Screw anchor, making this the only dual action system on the market. This means the high performance of adhesive anchors, but with the installation speed and simplicity of screw anchors. They say its up to 4x faster, thanks to the elimination of additional steps like hole cleaning, and epoxy injection and curing. You simply drill the hole, drop the capsule, drive the screw and you’re done.
There are many more new Hilti tools and innovation right around the corner, so check back next week for more.
NEW from Klein
Klein continues to roll out new products we don’t need but somehow do.
This time it’s the new Bucket Work Center Rail System. They easily attach to utility buckets with quick-release and adjustable clamps. The design allows both vertical and horizontal customization for your modules. Each rail has a 50 lb load rating, and comes in 3 sizes to accommodate 1 man, 1.5 man or 2 man buckets. Klein released a wide variety of compatible modules including a Hart Tool Storage Module, one for Auger Bits, a Tool Apron, Sockets, Utility bars, hooks and many more. Everything you need to effectively organize The Lineman’s Office. The rails range from around $200 to $450, with the modules running as little as $20.
NEW from Diablo
Diablo has some new cutty cutty for you this week, including Diamond Segmented Turbo Cutoff Discs for Masonry applications. The Diamond segment SPEED-Edge slot design aims to reduces vibration, providing high cutting speeds that deliver up to 30% faster cuts than standard segmented diamond discs. 60% taller segments containing superior quality diamonds along with an ultra-durable bond to the disc body contribute to a 4x longer life. They’re available in a range of diameters, starting from 4”, all the way up to 14”. They’re also available in a standard ⅞”, ⅝”, or 20mm arbor, or in ⅞” X-Lock, my personal favorite. Prices range from $24, all the way up to $159. They’re all available now.
NEW from RIDGID
RIDGID just announced a pair of new Extended Reach Ratchets in both ¼” and ⅜” anvils. That extended reach means 2x more access to harder to reach areas. The ¼” version reaches 325 RPM and boasts 45 foot pounds of torque. It has a two finger, variable speed trigger, led light, and it’s backed up by RIDGIDs lifetime service agreement.
The ⅜” version has the same longer reach, 250 RPM and 55 foot pounds of torque. Both ratchets benefit from using a RIDGID MAX Output battery, and they are available now for $199 each.
NEW from HART
HART announced a series of new gardening tools, just in time for spring. Starting off with 4 new hand pruners, including a ⅝” Anvil Hand Pruner, a 1” Pro Bypass Hand Pruner, a tiny Micro Tip Hand Pruner for precise trimming and shaping, and a ⅝” Bypass Hand Pruner as well. Each one features a titanium coated blade, ergonomic over mold handles, and range from $15.88 to $29.94 for the Pros.
They now offer two Shears, including the Extendable Compound Hedge Shears, and the HART Rotating Handle Grass Shears. They also feature a titanium coated blade for long lasting durability, however, that’s where the similarities end. The compound hedge shears feature 2x cutting power through it’s compound action, and an extendable handle for extra reach. It comes in at only $34.88. The Rotating HAndle Grass Shears are specially designed for touching up your grass. It features a rotating handle that allow quick trimming or edging. It can be picked up for only $21.98
They also announced a new 10” folding Pruning Saw for $34.98, and a 12’ Extendable pole saw with a 1” capacity, for only $44.94.
And finally they revealed a series of new rakes, shovels, forks and even a tamper too. All of which can be found in the gardening section at your local Walmart.
NEW from RYOBI
Ryobi had a few tool announcements as well, starting with a pair of 18V Whisper Series fans. That’s the Ryobi PCL813B 18V ONE+ Hybrid Whisper Series 14” AIR Cannon, which features 2,300 CFM, 3 speed settings, a 225 degree pivoting head, carry handle, and the ability to switch between battery or plug. It’ll be available this month for $149. They also announced this Ryobi 18V ONE+ Whisper Series 7.5” Bucket Top Misting Fan with 670 CFM, two speeds, and with a standard garden hose connected, it can mist up to 1.3 gallons of water per hour. All for only $69.
Tool Show | Production Crew Giveaway
If you missed it, on Monday we held our first monthly power tool giveaway, and it was a ton of fun. We gave away 8 prizes to people in our chat, and our grand prize winner, Sandy, got to choose one of our 4 tool shelves, and she pulled the BOSCH shelf, with over $2,700 tools and prizes from Bosch, Keen, GooseGrip and of course Spyder! Thanks to everyone who joined us, and grats to Sandy!
Heated Gear
We have been using heated jackets and gloves for several years now. Naturally, we wear gear that’s powered by the same batteries that power our favorite tools. That means Milwaukee, HART, DeWALT, and a few others. Now we get offers on a regular basis to try more heated gear, but nothing really caught our eye, so we politely declined.
That was until a couple months ago when a Canadian company reached out, and showed us their full line of heated gear, and we were hooked. Our biggest complaint was always the big tool batteries being so cumbersome, and in most cases, they dig into our kidneys because of the location of the battery. So the first thing that stood out, were these little Lithium Ion battery packs. They’re small, light, and you wear them in various locations around this heated vest.
So that’s the other major difference, this isn’t a heated jacket that can get damaged on the jobsite and worn out, but a vest designed to be worn under your jacket. And it works incredibly well. In our testing we never felt the batteries once, and the heat was great. Best of all, was the integration of heated gloves and inserts for our boots. You just put the battery in another vest pocket, and then run wires down your sleeves and pant legs to your hands and feet.
Now getting all of this setup is not fast, but if you’re going out in really cold weather, you’re already spending extra time putting on layers. And the extra effort was worth it. We used the gear on long walks through the snow covered woods, a few snowman building sessions, but most significant were our bike trips. Normally we stop riding motorcycles around 50 degrees. We don’t have fairing on our bikes and only Rob has heated grips. But with the vest, heated gloves, and the boot inserts, it was shocking how warm we kept, even with sub 30 degree wind blasting through us.
The heating was almost too good at times. I never did set my boots to more than low, even on very cold rides. It was plenty warm enough. And the gloves were amazing. We’ve used other heated gloves before, but they only heat the back of your hands. The Power in Motion gloves use a woven carbon fiber system that wraps the heat around your individual fingers, and I can’t tell you how much better that is.
Runtime is great. We were usually very comfortable running all three on low, and at that level the batteries last over 9 hours. Plenty for a long day of riding, or a full day of work. Pricing reflects the quality of the gear. The vest is $155, and the shoe inserts and gloves are a little over $200 per set. But you can get a full kit for as little a $535. That’s not cheap, but remember this kit turns ALL of your favorite work coats into heated gear, and that’s easily what we like best. If you’re looking for heated gear this is definitely a great setup. We’ll leave a link in the description where you can learn more, and we’ll give you a code that can save you 10%!
Torque Test Channel | Extended Reach High Speed Ratchets
There were a ton of great tool videos we found this week, starting with TTC. They got a hold of the all new Milwaukee 2569 Extended Reach High Speed Ratchet to see how it holds up against the 2566, and they even toss in an Amazon Kimo Extended Reach ratchet, which just so happens to be the best seller at the moment. The results of the testing, once again, reveals tools not operating to the claims of the manufacturer. If you’re tired of wrenching with your arms like a commoner, be sure to check out Torque Test Channel.
KnifeCenter | Benchmade at the Shot Show
KnifeCenter headed to the Shot Show in Vegas, and Sat down with the talented folks at Benchmade to see what new knives we’ll find in their 2023 lineup. Did they find new knives? Yes. Are the beautiful? Of course. Are they reasonably priced? We’ll, if you read the comments, no. No they are not. Benchmade is easily Sarah and My favorite knife brand, and we both carry one everyday. But after the second round of price hikes, it’s getting harder and harder to love. I’m still going to buy another one this year, but if you have a great alternative you’d like to sell me on, do so in the comments.
Philly Fixed | Kobalts Next-Gen Impacts
Our buddy Jim at Philly Fixed got a hold of Kobalt’s all new Next-Gen impacts, including an XTR Jobsite version, and wanted to know if Next-Gen should be your next purchase. You can watch the full review at Philly Fixed.
Various | Milwaukee M18 Track Saw Reviews
A few weeks ago, Milwaukee finally started deliveries of their highly anticipated M18 Tracksaw, and there have been at least a dozen review videos shared on YouTube. And we’ve watched them all. You’re welcome. There were a few that really did a great job of highlighting both the good and less than good, and we think you should check them out. That includes Matt over at 731 woodworks, Spencer over at insider carpentry, and finally Drew over at Wittworks. Now I’ll warn you, the titles and thumbs suggest that they’re unhappy, or pissed, but it’s just clickbait for videos that are good enough not to need it. So we’ll link to all three below.
Scott Brown Carpentry | 2 Year Makita XGT Review
Our last stop is with Scott Brown, who decided to recap the last two years of using the Makita XGT system on the jobsite, and as you’d expect, it’s packed full of interesting and useful insights that any Makita fan, or potential convert, should see.
I want to thank FLEX And SPYDER for continuing to support our show and our community of tool fans. We couldn’t do it without you. And if you can, do something kind for someone else this week. We will see you next week.
