For those that aren’t familiar with the Current Tool brand they are a relatively new manufacturer (little over 15 years) focused on tools for professional electricians. Several reasons we’ve found many pros like the brand; first almost everything they make is built in USA Greenville, SC. Second they are very responsive with customer service and rarely ever back orders. Third even though they make the product in the USA they are very competitively priced vs Greenlee or Gardner Bender. Fourth many of their parts/components such as shoes, punch, dies, etc are interchangeable with other brands. Finally the quality has been very good.
Recently Current Tool launched their new Omni Bender 747 ($6299) and while this production isn’t going to win them any Oscars (please at least turn the camera horizontal) the video does do a nice job of showing the benefits and features.
This new bender has some stiff competition as Greenlee has also recently launched a couple of their own new bending units in the 855DX (programmable) / 854DX. The Omni bender would go right up against the Greenlee 854DX ($7999) which offers a single shoe configuration as well as an electronic controlled remote pendant which adjusts in half degree increments. Certainly this level of control would be nice but the price tag may be a little more than some are willing to invest. Their video production budget, clearly a little higher.
Good news for trade professionals is competition means more new products like these, lower prices and better support service. Both are good options but a little different offering and price point. If you have not considered Current Tools before, even though they are the relative new kid on the block, they are a domestically made comparable option to the known brands such as Greenlee. If you have any questions on any electrical / mechanical tools for the professional trades give the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 a call and they will be happy to help you find the right tool for the job.
More Info on the Current 747 Omni™ Bender
Only two shoes needed to bend 1/2″ to 2″ Rigid, EMT and IMC conduit.
Optional shoe set bends 1/2″ to 2″ 40 mil PVC coated Rigid conduit.
Proven electrical control system.
Adjustable bend angle limit switch for accurate repeat bends.
Tilts for horizontal bending in a tabletop position.
Quick squeeze adjustment for EMT and IMC conduit support rollers.
Fork pockets for easy lifting.
Lockable storage box for accessories.
Made in the USA
Power Source 120 vac; 20 amp GFCI protected receptacle required
Dimensions: height 45-1⁄4″, width 32-1⁄2″, length 44″
Weight: 615 lbs (with shoes)
SPECIFICATIONS:
1/2″ thru 2″ Rigid conduit
1/2″ thru 2″ EMT conduit
1/2″ thru 2″ IMC conduit
1/2″ thru 2″ Rigid aluminum conduit
1/2″ thru 2″ schedule 40 steel pipe
1/2″ thru 2″ 40 mil PVC coated Rigid conduit — (with optional shoes and roller supports