Weather Guard 127-52-02LF Saddle Box With Integrated Lighting Review

In my opinion, Weather Guard makes the finest truck tool boxes on the market. From the high quality locks to the superb gas springs, I haven’t found a better box. Weather Guard has recently upped the ante with the new LED light kit that can be purchased with a new box or as a retrofit kit to light your current Weather Guard box.

To paraphrase my experience, this box kicks ass.

Specifications

• Style: Saddle Box
• Approx. Product Height: 18.5in
• Approx. Product Length: 71.5in
• Approx. Product Width: 20.25in
• Approx. Product Weight (lb): 87
• Approx. Cu. Ft. Per Unit: 11.3
• Material: Aluminum
• Color: Textured Matte Black
• Powder Coat Finish: Yes
• Key Alike: On Request
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Features

Lighting

Obviously, the main difference between this box and any other Weather Guard box is the lights. With over 600 lumens, these easily light up the entire box. As any contractor (or anyone that has ever had to dig around their tool box with a flashlight in their mouth) knows, this is a long overdue and welcome feature. The lights turn on automatically when the lid is opened and conversely, turn off when it is closed. Lastly, they are IP66 rated to withstand normal (read: tough as hell) job site conditions.

Security

The locks on the 127-52-02LF Saddle Box are very well designed as well. Weather Guard says they are automotive style rotary latches, which basically means that they work well and are tough. When you unlock the box, a push “button” pops out and push it, opening the box a full 90°. When you want to lock it, you simply turn the key to lock and depress the “button” and it stays depressed, making it harder for potential thieves to tamper with.

Weather Seal

As with all Weather Guard boxes, close attention is paid to keeping the contents free of dust and moisture. A quality weather seal extends completely around the lid.

Sliding Tool Tray

Weather Guard has included a metal sliding tool tray to help with organization as well. While I decided not to use this, it is a nice addition that many will find helpful.

Level Brackets

Brackets are included that will hold a 4’ level. Again, I didn’t install these, but a lot of users will be glad they are included.

Load Handling Attachment Points

Convenient attachment points are located on the front of the box. While I wouldn’t consider these actual tie-down points, they are very useful for keeping unwanted items like paint buckets from moving around during transit.

Installation

Light Kit

Weather Guard claims you can install this in 30 minutes, and I personally believe that is pretty accurate. It really is a straight-forward process even for the electrically-challenged DIY’ers. For my application (Ford F-350), I used the fuse panel adapter kit. While I won’t go into every detail as every truck will be a little different, I will give a quick run-down of the process. Weather Guard includes instructions with the box to help with the process.

To begin, you simply locate a constant hot fuse. If you are unsure of how to do this, simply find the “Horn” fuse in your owner manual and use that.

Route the included wiring kit through a rubber grommet in your truck (the one I used was on the floor under the carpet), and into your fuse panel.

You then run the wiring along side your frame rails securing it occasionally with the included wire ties. When you get to the bed, feed the wire through the knockout grommet located on the back of your truck bed.

Once through, fish the wire through the grommet on the box and plug in. You can coil and tie the wire inside of the gas spring housing for a more professional installation.

Once you have the box wired, you plug in the adapter (which has a spot for the original fuse if you used an occupied location) into the desired fuse spot. Voila, you have light.

Truck Box

Weather Guard boxes have an extremely easy installation process. Included are Four (4) mounting brackets and hardware. These brackets attach under you bed rails so there are no holes to drill and are easy to remove if necessary. First, lay the rubber strips where the saddle box will make contact with you bed rails. This will provide a buffer for noise and any potential corrosion issues. You then feed the hardware through the mounting holes and tighten them to the brackets.

Using The Weather Guard 127-52-02LF Saddle Box

I have been using the Weather Guard 127-52-02LF Saddle Box With Integrated Lighting for several months now. I really wanted to put this through its paces as it is a fairly steep investment. To paraphrase my experience, this box kicks ass. The locks are extremely smooth and easy to operate. The gas springs are excellent and the lid opens and closes very smooth. Installation was a breeze and the extra thought put into things like housing around the springs, the tool tray and the handy attachment points is evident in overall user experience. The fit and finish is great as well and I wouldn’t hesitate installing it on the nicest of trucks. All of this is BEFORE you even talk about the lights, which are awesome. While this might seem trivial to some people, I have personally been blown away how handy they have been

Improvements

Well, this box is damn near perfect. While I could try to find a gripe or two, I mostly think it would be nitpicking. The biggest issue I could find would be the price. While it is fairly steep, you will be putting much more valuable items IN the box, so protecting them shouldn’t be sacrificed.

Final Thoughts

Most contractors have many thousands invested in tools, and I believe, skimping on the storage of them is a mistake. Certainly there are more affordable options for truck boxes, but I feel you’d be hard pressed to find anything better than the Weather Guard 127-52-02LF Saddle Box With Integrated Lighting. The host of features and quality of build makes it definitely worth a look if you are in the market for a box.

Where To Buy

Weather Guard Truck Toolbox Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hilti Releases AG 4S-A22 4-1/2” 22V Angle Grinder

Everybody that is around tools for a living know that cordless power tools are quickly replacing their corded cousins on job sites everywhere. Hilti recently announced a new 22V cordless angle grinder that is aimed at replacing their corded options.

Specs

Disc Diameter: 5” Max

Voltage: 22V

Spindle Thread: 5/8”

Variable Speed Range: 3500-8500 RPM

Trigger Type: Lockable On/Off

Warranty – Hilti 20-2-1 Warranty

Features

Power

The AG 4S-A22 4-1/2” 22V Angle Grinder is powered by Hilti’s 22V battery and can accept grinding and cutting discs up to 5” in diameter. With a brushless motor and upgraded electronics, Hilti promises cord-like power, without the hassle. A variable speed dial allows the user to adjust the RPM’s to fit the application allowing the grinder to be used on a myriad of metals and building materials.

Safety

Angle grinders are notoriously dangerous, so Hilti has addressed some of these concerns with the AG 4S-A22. Equipped with a blade/disc brake and Hilti’s Active Torque Control technology, users can work both efficiently and safely. The blade brake is also particularly handy for unintentionally marring surfaces.

Ergonomics

Hilti has designed this tool for the user that works with angle grinders for long periods of time. They have updated their grip with a slimmer design and included a lockable on/off switch for comfort when grinding for longer periods of time.

Who Is This Grinder For

Hilti has long been known for their commitment to quality tools and customer service. This tool was aimed at the professional tradesman or woman looking to replace a corded grinder for the convenience and portability of a cordless platform.

The Hilti Hilti AG 4S-A22 4.5″ Cordless Angle Grinder can be had for around $189.

Hilti Launches New 4-1/2” Cordless Angle Grinder is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee Tool Expands PACKOUT Tool Storage Offerings

Unless you’ve been living in a cave for the last three years (which is unlikely if you’re reading this), you’ve probably heard about the Milwaukee PACKOUT tool storage system. I think you all know that this is  the toughest tool storage system on the market, and Milwaukee is doing their best to also make it the most versatile. At their recent New Product Symposium, they introduced a few more options in this system which are slated to be released this year.

PACKOUT Dolly

One of the first releases will be the PACKOUT Dolly. As with most PACKOUT storage options (soft-sided bags and coolers are not), the Dolly is constructed of an impact resistant polymer to allow heavy loads and withstand the beating they take in job site environment. In conjunction with the heavy-duty casters, the PACKOUT Dolly is capable of withstanding loads up to 250 pounds.

Milwaukee has outfitted the Dolly with their QUICKSTOP Loading Lever which allows the user to quickly hold it in place for loading and unloading.

I could see the Dolly being particularly useful for contractors working in environments where moving tools from room to room is commonplace.

The PACKOUT Dolly is the earliest available option which is to be released July of 2019.

PACKOUT Mounting Plate

Many current PACKOUT users have been clamoring for a mounting system. To satisfy the demand, Milwaukee has unveiled the PACKOUT Mounting Plate. This plate allows the user to securely mount and stabilize their PACKOUT boxes. With metal reinforced mounting and tie-down points, the PACKOUT Mounting Plate can hold boxes up to 50 pounds when mounted on a wall and 100 pounds on the floor.

I think this would be perfect for anyone who wants to keep their boxes from moving around in the back of a truck or to mount some boxes that are easy to access on the wall of your trailer or van.

These are slated to be released in August 2019.

PACKOUT Crate

How many of you still use milk crates on the job site? I, for one, use them all the time. I like to use them to carry random hand tools in that don’t necessarily need a dedicated tool box. Milwaukee has addressed this scenario with their new PACKOUT Crate.

With integrated weep holes, 50 pound capacity and the ability to be hung from the aforementioned PACKOUT Mounting Plate, these crates are sure to be a fan-favorite for current PACKOUT users and anyway looking for an easy-to-stack and durable alternative to milk crates.

Keep an eye out for these in November 2019.

PACKOUT Accessory Kits

While accessory kits that are housed in PACKOUT kits aren’t necessarily new, Milwaukee IS working on expanding the options available.  Milwaukee will be offering a 10 piece HOLE DOZER hole saw kit, a 9 piece BIG HAWG with carbide teeth kit and a 101 piece impact driver bit set, all of which will be housed in a PACKOUT box. These are set to be released throughout the year.

M18 PACKOUT Radio + Charger

Last but certainly not least, is Milwaukee’s M18 PACKOUT Radio + Charger. With 10 total speakers (2 subwoofers), Milwaukee boasts this radio will have the loudest volume and deepest bass on the market. The M18 PACKOUT Radio + Charger will be AC/DC capable and will also charge your M18 batteries when plugged in. Full PACKOUT capabilities will allow for easy transport to and from the job site.

Available in November 2019, the M18 PACKOUT Radio + Charger will set you back about $300.

Milwaukee Bolsters PACKOUT Lineup is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless Rear Handle 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2830-21HD

Milwaukee Tool just announced the release of it’s first rear-handle circular saw. Although several competitors have beat them to market on their versions, Milwaukee claims to have several advantages over the competition. This also fills out a hole in their general carpentry lineup.

Specifications

• Speed: 5,800

• Arbor Size: Diamond

• Bevel Capacity: 53 degree

• Capacity: 2-1/2” at 90° and 1-7/8” at 45°

• Weight: 13.5 lbs (10 lbs bare tool)

• 5-year warranty

Features

Milwaukee’s rear-handle circular saw expands their FUEL lineup which includes proprietary POWERSTATE brushless motor, REDLITHIUMTM battery pack, and REDLINK PLUS intelligence which have been re-engineered to handle the demands necessary of a framing saw.

The Milwaukee rear-handle circular saw is constructed of cast magnesium to maintain durability while also reducing the weight as much as possible on a heavy-duty saw. They also have included a rafter hook that will be usable on different thicknesses and an LED light to help light up the area (I am particularly excited about this feature).

When outfitted with their 12.0 Ah High Demand battery pack, Milwaukee claims to be able to make over 570 cuts through 2×4 material (I have a pretty good feeling that we are going to put these claims to the test as soon as we can get our hands on one).

Similar to their competitors, this IS NOT a worm-drive saw. This is a direct-drive saw that is styled like the traditional worm-drives. The gears will not need to be oiled which helps keep maintenance to a minimum.

Where To Get One

This saw is set for release in July of this year (2019), and will sold as a kit (2830-21HD) which includes the saw, a general purpose framing blade, 12.0Ah battery, M12/M18 multi-voltage charger and a contractor bag. A bare tool option will also be available. Below is a link to the kit pre-sale.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Rear Handle Circular Saw – Video Preview

Milwaukee Announces M18 FUEL Rear Handle Circular Saw is a post from Tool Box Buzz

How to Build Adjustable Modular Construction Trailer Shelving

I recently made the decision to reorganize my construction tool trailer. I wrote earlier about some of my “must-haves” for this project, including adjustable modular shelves to accommodate my Milwaukee PACKOUT storage boxes.

As with any project, it is always a good idea to start with a plan. While I am not a huge stickler for exacting plans on a project like this, I do like to have a “game plan” to start with. I like to use SketchUp for this as I can easily adjust and change certain parts to accommodate real-life situations. Although this is my preferred method, there are many other programs or just a hand drawn sketch will suffice.

Cutting The Shelf Parts

For this project, I decided to use AC plywood. For my needs, this was a good balance between quality materials while keeping the costs under control. It is just a work trailer after all.

I decided to make each upright and each shelf the exact same dimension. This was done to speed up production time and allow for easy adjustability in the future.

I broke down my sheet goods with my plunge cut (track) saw. You can use a table saw or a circular saw with a straight edge to accomplish this as well. I began by cutting all of the uprights first as this allowed the drops to be used for the individual shelves.

I then cut all of the shelves. This went pretty fast since they are all the exact same size.

Shelf Pins

After I cut all of my parts, I began the tedious job of drilling all the shelf pin holes using the Kreg shelf pin jig. The reason for the shelf pin holes is just to index the individual shelves. I can arrange the shelves and mock up where I want the tools to be located.

Pocket Holes

When I had everything where I wanted. I fastened the shelves to the uprights using pocket hole screws. This also ties each of the uprights together making one solid unit.

For the uprights, I drilled pocket holes in the bottom and the top to attach them to the floor and to attach the top piece. I drilled 8 pocket holes in each shelf to hold the weight of the tools. While this might have been a little overkill, I wanted to make sure it would be strong enough since I wouldn’t be using glue anywhere.

I also used some of the cut-offs to install on the back of the shelves to keep the tools from sliding off the back. Again, these were installed using pocket screws.

Chamfer

I also put a small chamfer on the edges with my compact router. This serves two purposes. First, it eases the sharp edges helping to prevent cuts and secondly it helps keep the edges of the plywood from being damaged when taking the boxes in and out.

Installation

Once all of my parts were finished, it was time to begin installation. I began by laying out where I wanted my first upright to go. I attached it to the floor using pocket screws. For the next upright, I used one of the shelves as a spacer and used pocket holes to hold it in place. I repeated this process for all of the uprights.

To hold the uprights in position, I temporarily installed a shelf between each upright by using the upper most shelf pin holes and using clamps to hold everything together. This was just to keep the spacing even.

I then installed the top piece. For my design, this was the only piece that was a different size. I did this so I could put ladders on top and have some extra storage behind the shelves for longer tools. This also allowed for the shelves and uprights to all be the same without notching around the wheel wells.

For the top piece, I notched around some of the structure of the trailer using a jig saw. To attach the shelves to the structure of the trailer, I simply fastened some “L” brackets to the structure and to top of the shelving unit.

After all of the uprights were held in place, I could remove the shelves that were temporarily installed. This allowed enough room to install the remaining pocket screws into the top.

I used the shelf pin holes as guides and began arranging the shelves to accommodate my needs. I installed the shelves with the back being one pin hole lower so the shelf sat at a slight angle. This was to keep any of the boxes from sliding out during transport. When everything was where I wanted it, I attached everything to the uprights using pocket screws.

As with most organizational projects, the finished product is fairly fluid. I tweak and adjust different aspects as I notice areas of improvements. Having modular shelves allows these changes to be made on the fly to accommodate my needs.

How to Build Construction Trailer Shelving is a post from Tool Box Buzz

SKILSAW® Introduces 16 Inch Worm Drive Sawsquatch Carpentry Chainsaw SPT55-11

SKILSAW has announced the release of their 16 Inch Worm Drive Sawsquatch Carpentry Chainsaw. This innovative new saw helps professionals increase productivity on the jobsite by combining a large depth of cut in a lightweight package.

Specs

• Amperage: 15
• RPM: 6300
• Bar Length: 16”
• Blade Type: 56-Tooth Full House Chain; 90F056
• Max Bevel: 60°
• Depth of Cut at 90°: 14-1/2”
• Depth of Cut at 45°: 8-3/4”
• Depth of Cut at 60°: 5-1/2”
• Weight: 19 lbs.
• Dimensions: Width 25-1/2”, Depth 35”, Height 20”
• Cord Length: 8’
• Guarantee: SKILSAW Stay TrueTM Guarantee

Features

• 14-1/2” Depth of Cut
• Electric Motor Break
• Self-lubricating, full-house chain with tool-less tensioning
• 15 AMP Dual-Field Motor
• All Magnesium Construction
• SKILSAW Worm Drive Technology

Who Is This Saw For

The Sawsquatch Carpentry Chainsaw is geared for the professional who frequently deals with large materials as well as those who need to quickly gang cut materials such as I-Joists. Due to the vertical alignment of the blade, this is also a great saw for anyone doing notches in large timbers or stair treads as this virtually eliminates the need for “finishing “ the cuts with a jigsaw or handsaw.

This saw is currently available for PreOrder and will cost around $650. This will include the saw, chain, auxiliary handle and a stand.

SKILSAW® Worm Drive Sawsquatch Carpentry Chainsaw

Buy Now

$650

SKILSAW 16 Inch Worm Drive Carpentry Chainsaw is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Create Systems For Increased For Productivity

Let’s get right to the point. In the construction industry, it is imperative to have systems in place to increase productivity and ultimately, profitability. From bookkeeping to personnel time management, systems will ease frustrations of day-to-day operations and provide customers with the best possible product and experience.

One of the goals for my company this year was to increase the productivity of my daily operations to allow more time spent growing the business and with my family.  To accomplish this, I incorporated some systems to ensure that each day ran as smoothly as possible. I began this process by evaluating the issues that hamper our daily productivity.

Time Commitments Elsewhere

When I leave a job site, the productivity of my employees goes down by about 25%. This isn’t due to my physical absence but rather the reduction in employee productivity. While many may say I need new employees, business owners understand this is a common scenario.  Employees stay more focused when a supervisor is around. In order to improve this situation the goal was to reduce my time away from the jobsite.

One of my duties as a business owner is meeting with potential new and current clients. This includes bidding new jobs, walk-throughs with current customers and checking on subcontractors at various sites.  While I do TRY to accommodate every customer, there must be an agreement on mutual meeting times that are most convenient to my operation. If the time that works for the potential client simply isn’t a good time for me, I politely tell them that we need to reschedule.  I always try to dedicate a few hours a week to meet with new prospective clients.  This allows me to be proactive in time management and not be at the whim of everyone’s schedule.

When managing subcontractors, I check on each job as early as possible in the morning to ensure there are no issues that need to be addressed. Dedicating this time allows me to get in the right frame of mind for the work day.

Material Runs

Material runs are another task that pulls me away from job sites. Nothing kills momentum on a project quicker than having to pull off when you realize you won’t have the materials needed to finish.

As far as building material goes, I HIGHLY recommend getting an account and finding a good salesman at a local lumber supplier. I can’t count the times my salesman has personally brought me a few boards or some flashing tape so I can stay focused on the job at hand. Having to run to the local big box store simply does not make sense.

As far as consumables, (fasteners, glue, shims, etc), the fix for this was simple. I needed a way to track inventory in my tool trailer and make sure that I had everything necessary to finish the job.

I opted for a storage system that allowed easy access to check inventory and a white board that everyone writes down when items need to be restocked. This allows quick access at the end of the day to the inventory on hand and allows time to purchase what is necessary before work begins.

Tool Trailer Trips

As every contractor knows, it sucks when you don’t have the tool you need handy. This is the sole reason we wear tool bags. Keeping the tools we use most often on us at all times is imperative and it happened to be the first lesson I learned when starting in the trades. If anyone was caught not wearing their tool bags at any point within the day, we had to buy the whole crew coffee and donuts the next day.

This same principle should be applied to all tools. Throughout any given day, I would send someone to grab a tool that was already out or have to quit in the middle of a project to go find the right tool. More often than not, it was buried underneath other tools or put in the wrong spot. There had to be a better way.

Enter portable, modular storage boxes. These have been a great improvement for our productivity. Being able to quickly grab every tool we might need for that job without having to make multiple trips has seriously improved our productivity and my overall agreeableness.

A fringe benefit of the boxes is the time savings of getting out and rolling up the tools every day. This system has saved me at least 30 minutes each day by not making a ton of trips to put away individual tools. Over the course of a year, this alone has paid for all the boxes.

Daily Grind

The last major “time sucker” of our days was crew members physically wearing down each day. I noticed that all the guys would get sluggish an hour or two before lunch time and around 2:30 pm. I decided to break the day into parts. We take two 15-minute breaks at 9:45 am and 2:30 pm. This allows me to discuss any potential issues they are having on a job and gives us more times to “shoot for”. For instance, “Try to get that bedroom base trim finished up before lunch.” or “Let’s get the roof sheathed before afternoon break.” With more manageable goals and a little competition to finish before a given time, our productivity has been soaring.

Final Note

While every company is structured differently, having systems in place will undoubtedly improve your productivity and bottom line. So, take note of your deficiencies and try to incorporate ways that address these issues. The systems employed in my company have made this our most profitable year ever, and I guarantee they will work for your company as well.

Making Your Construction Company More Productive is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hitachi CS51EAP 50.1CC 20-Inch Rear Handle Chainsaw with PureFire Engine

Hitachi CS51EAP 50cc Chainsaw

4/5

Manufacturer: Hitachi
Model number: CS51EAP
Power source: Gas PureFire Engine
Motor size: 50cc

Specs

• Engine Displacement – 50.1 cc
• Max Power – 3.5 HP
• Bar Mounting Studs – 2
• Bar & Chain Length – 20” (.325” pitch)
• Power Head Weight – 11.5 lbs
• Fuel Tank Capacity – 17.9 oz
• Oil Tank Capacity – 9.1 oz
• Power Source – 50:1 Mixed Gas
• Warranty- 7-Yr Consumer, 2-Yr Commercial, 1-Yr Rental

Features

Anti Vibration System

The Hitachi CS51EAP comes with a steel spring type anti vibration system. This system works really well absorbing the majority of vibration during use resulting in less fatigue and a more pleasurable experience in general.

Side Access Chain Tensioner

A side access chain tensioner allows easy chain tightening without removing the chain cover. Extremely useful when wearing gloves, this makes quick and cleaner work adjusting the chain.

Adjustable Oiler

An automatic bar/chain oiler is included that allows the user to adjust the flow of oil to keep the bar and chain cool.

Toolless Caps

Both the bar/chain oil and fuel caps are toolless. While they do offer a slot for a screwdriver or “scrench”, it is nice to not need one. The air filter cap is also toolless offering quick change ability in the field.

Primer Bulb and Auto-Return Choke

While several other companies are getting rid of their primer bulbs for ease of use, I am still a fan. I often run my saws completely out of gas to avoid interrupting my workflow. Without the primer bulbs, hot restarts are just not as easy as they should be. The auto-return choke helps with usability with automatically releasing the choke when the trigger is pulled. This helps with flooding issues and just makes it easier for the user.

Decompression Valve

A surprising feature on this saw is the decompression valve. While this feature is common on more powerful saws, it is not widely seen on a saw this size and definitely not at this price point. Basically, larger chainsaws can build up a lot of compression while running. When restarting, they maintain that compression and can be an a bear to turn over. This has broken countless ropes on older models. While it isn’t overly necessary on a saw of this size, I found myself using the feature more often than not and can only imagine it will decrease repairs.

Ergonomics

The saw feels pretty good in hand and is well balanced. It was slightly heavier than I originally imagined, but I never felt that it was uncomfortable for me to use.

The anti-vibration system on this saw lends itself to a little bit of a “cheap” feel due to the movement between the handle and bar. This being said, the anti-vibe does work well and I haven’t had any issues with the connection between the two.

I also found the handle to be a little on the small side for me. This is just personal preference, but I do not have the largest hands in the world. I like a more substantial grip on my saws.

Performance

After using this saw for months now, I can honestly say that I am very impressed with how it runs. It has good power for its’ size and features an Oregon bar and chain. With this saw, and other OPE I currently own, the PureFire engine is remarkable and starting up. Within 2-3 pulls, the engine is fired up and running smoothly. Every time. Hot starts have alway been one pull. There is nothing more frustrating than getting into the woods to do some work only to have to work on the saw to get it to run. This engine is as easy as it gets.

Improvements

While this saw has many great points, there are a couple of small issues I think Hitachi could address. As I mentioned earlier, I think the handle is too thin. I also wish there could be a compromise with their anti-vibration system and the play between the bar and the handle. I couldn’t shake this feeling that it was just a bit cheaply made. Again, the system worked well, I just didn’t like the feel.

One of my main complaints was the chain lock on cover. Several times I found myself accidentally engaging the lock while it was off which was difficult to disengage and impossible to reinstall without doing so.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I think Hitachi has made a really nice saw for avid homeowner and farm use. With a price tag right around $300, the features on this saw are those seen on a saw costing much more. All of this is backed with one of the best warranties in the industry. The power is adequate and the engine is fantastic. While you may give up a little on power and build quality to professional saws, you will be hard to match the performance to value of this one.

If you are a homeowner looking for something a little bigger, or a professional looking for a feature-rich backup that won’t bankrupt you, I suggest you give this saw a shot.

Hitachi 50cc Chainsaw Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DeWalt DCE400B 20V Max 1” PEX Expander

Let’s get this out of the way. Milwaukee has dominated the mechanical trade tools market for years. They have been the first-to-market and have offered a large variety of tools geared towards plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors while most of the other major players in tool manufacturing have focused on other trades. Several months ago, the yellow brand decided to ante-up and enter this market offering the Dewalt 20V Max PEX Expander.

Specifications

• Capacity: 3.8” – 1” PEX Type-A Tubing
• Power Source: 20V MAX Battery
• Tool Weight: 3.92 LBS.
• Tool Length: 6.75 IN.
• Speed: 60 SPM
• Warranty: 3 years

LED Light

The DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander offers an LED light located on the base of the tool near the battery. The light is bright and illuminates the work area well. It also stays on well after the operation is done. This is great when working in dark areas, which is pretty common in the plumbing world. The location of the work light is well thought out, and I rarely got shadows while in use.

Automatic Rotating Head

An automatic rotating head offers even expansion of the joint mitigating the risk of leaks. This is very nice as with the old hand pump options, you were supposed to do this manually. As you can imagine, this task was difficult, particularly in tight areas.

Full-Length Trigger Actuation

The trigger runs the full-length of the body of the tool and is actuated anywhere along the trigger. This allows the user to operate the tool easily between joists and other tight areas.

Belt and Hang Hook

There is a large hang hook located near the head of the tool. It is robust and easily hangs on a belt, tool bag or a tote. A belt hook is also included. Both of these are reversible for both lefty’s and righty’s. I particularly found the hang hook useful. It is large and easily accessible. While I think the belt hook is a nice feature, the fact that the DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander wont fit in the kit box with them mounted on opposite sides makes it much less useful for me. I mostly left it off for this reason.

Ergonomics

I am a fan of the rubber overmold and handles on DeWalt products. While this is a personal opinion, they just seem to have the most comfortable tools on the market. The 20V Max PEX Expander is no different. It is very comfortable and well-balanced. It just has the feeling of a well-built tool.

Performance

The DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander could not be easier to use. I have been using it on the job site for a few months now and have had absolutely no issues. It has had no problem expanding 1” PEX and one 5.0AH battery will be enough to rough-in most houses. As far as speed, the DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander is fast. In fact it is the fastest PEX expander currently on the market. While this isn’t necessarily the most important feature of the tool, it is something to keep in mind as several seconds on each joint can add up over the course of a job.

The expander worked quickly, smoothly and trouble-free during my testing.

Improvements

It is very hard to get a perfect grade from us at Tool Box Buzz. While the DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander is very close, it isn’t quite there. The fact that you can’t put the tool in the kit box with the belt hook located opposite the hang hook basically rendered it useless for me. I prefer the hang hook and would only use the belt hook if it were located on the other side.

Overall Impression

DeWalt has themselves a truly impressive tool here. It works exactly as it should and helps to improve productivity and quality on site. Exactly what a tool is supposed to do. While many in mechanical trades swear by Milwaukee (and rightfully so), DeWalt has thrown down the proverbial gauntlet. Milwaukee, take notice. This is a damn nice tool.

DeWalt 20V Max PEX Expander Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

SkilSaw SPT70V-11 16-5/16″ Magnesium Super Sawsquatch Worm Drive Saw

SkilSaw SPT70V-11 16-5/16" Magnesium Super Sawsquatch Worm Drive Saw

5/5

Manufacturer: SkilSaw
Model number: SPT70V-11
Power source: 120v
Motor size: 15 amp
Weight: 30 lbs.

Specs

• Arbor Size: 1″ Round
• Blade Size: 16-5/16″
• Cord Length: 10′
• Height: 17.5″
• Housing Material: Magnesium
• Max. Cut Depth at 45°: 4-5/16″
• Max. Cut Depth at 90°: 6-1/4″
• Amperage: 15
• Max. RPM: 2,500
• Bevel: 45
• Bevel Stops: 0°, 45°
• Blade Location: Left
• Weight: 27 lbs

Cutting Capacity

Let’s get down to it. The only reason to own this saw is to cut big boards. The Skilsaw Super Sawsquatch worm drive saw does just that. With a max depth of 6-1/4” at 90° and 4-5/16” at 45°, you can rest easy knowing this saw cuts almost any conventional lumber in one pass.

Magnesium Footplate and Housing

A massive saw needs to offer usability, enter magnesium parts. A magnesium footplate and housing offers the durability that SkilSaw users have come to expect in a (somewhat) lightweight package. Magnesium is a durable and relatively lightweight material that saws have used for several years to reduce weight while maintaining the “toughness” that job sites require. What this means to you is a VERY capable saw at a mere manageable 27lbs.

15amp Duel-Field Motor

A 15 amp duel-field motor spins the massive 16-5/16” blade. Designed to keep the motor cooler, this motor also offers ample power for the toughest cuts out there. It almost goes without saying, but this is the biggest motor Skilsaw has ever designed.

Electric Brake

An onboard electric brake slows the blade when the trigger is released. This has been a common feature on newer tools, and one that I am glad they have introduced. This is huge as far as safety is concerned for the user as well as protecting boards and electric cords.

Adjustable Dust Port

One of my favorite features on the SkilSaw Super Sawsquatch worm drive saw is the adjustable dust port. As you can imagine, cutting large boards creates large amounts of sawdust. You can angle this to create a more clear line of site, or better yet, hook it up to dust collection. EVERY saw should have this feature, and I am glad SkilSaw has worked to solve this problem.

Ergonomics

As you can imagine, this is one big ass saw. There aren’t many “dainty” features. It is big, powerful and pretty unapologetic about it. That being said, the magnesium housing makes it about 5 pounds lighter than the competition. The repositionable handle allows the user to find a spot more comfortable for them, and the adjustable dust port is a VERY welcome feature. As a self-proclaimed SkilSaw worm drive expert, I have found the saw particularly comfortable.

Using the Skilsaw 16-5/16” Super Sawsquatch Worm Drive Saw

I have been using the SkilSaw Super Sawsquatch worm drive saw for months now. I cut a lot of 6×6’s for porch posts and while building decks. As with every large circular saw, the blade takes a bit to get up to speed. Once it does, no dimensional lumber stands a chance. The saw is as well balanced as can be expected and offers an unparalleled line of sight (at least for right-handed users). The adjustment handles are easy to use and the depth of cut and bevel degrees are easy to read, even when dusty. I personally preferred the reposition able handle in the same location as it came from the factory, but an employee preferred the handle in the other location. To have the option is great. The upper handle position is great when cutting 90 degrees but when beveling, the lower position is ideal.

Improvements

I honestly can’t find any faults in this saw and to do so, would be just to find something. This is a rare case where a tool does just what it is designed to do.

Final Impressions

While this is most certainly a specialty tool, it does it to perfection. 5-star ratings are hard to come by here at Tool Box Buzz, but this saw is deserving. It is smooth, powerful and offers a host of features that are unique to this tool alone. The SkilSaw Super Sawsquatch worm drive saw is, quite simply, the best large diameter circular saw on the market. While I may be biased as a self-proclaimed left-blade-oriented circular saw user, but this saw is truly a joy to use. There is FINALLY competition in this market, and you and I are both the beneficiaries. You can pick one up online for around $550.

SkilSaw Super Sawsquatch 16-5/16” Worm Drive Saw Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz