The Best “Carpenter” Sawhorse 2024

I feel like I’ve been on a quest my entire career as a carpenter to find the unicorn of sawhorses. By that I mean a pair of sawhorses that stores well, are durable, open easily, support a lot of weight, and don’t break after 2 months or immediately after dropping them on a cold day. I know I’m asking for a lot, but someone, somewhere must make that unicorn sawhorse.

Up to this point my FAV sawhorse was the DeWalt “Work Stand” aluminum sawhorses and also the not-so-cheap, plastic, “Stanley-Style” folding sawhorses.

The DeWalt has everything I need in a sawhorse, except it’s a little heavy and is super bulky to store. The Stanley plastic sawhorses are light and slim, store great, but don’t last more than a month or a single drop in cold weather.

Thus, I embarked on a systematic journey, rigorously testing various sawhorse models across my job sites over the course of six months. This pursuit proved more challenging than anticipated. With each trial, I hoped to unearth that rare gem, the unicorn sawhorse, that would surpass all expectations and become the cornerstone of my carpentry endeavors.

In the end, I tested eight different sawhorses, all different styles to determine which one best suited my needs and performed effectively on the job site. The sawhorses included were:

1. Bora Workhorse XT
2. Central Machinery Sawhorse
3. Dewalt Heavy Duty Work Stand
4. Dewalt Adjustable Legs Sawhorse
5. Dewalt Metal Folding Sawhorse
6. Fulton StableMate Sawhorse
7. Kreg Track Horse
8. Stanley Folding Sawhorse

I evaluated these sawhorses based on six criteria to determine the best option, considering:

1. Weight
2. Storability
3. Durability
4. Set up and break down (Ergonomics and functionality)
5. Additional features
6. Cost

Note: All the sawhorses in this test had to have a capacity of at least 1000 pounds or more, as anything less wouldn’t meet the standards of a job site quality sawhorse. Moreover, a higher weight capacity typically indicates better structural integrity and durability.

BORA Workhorse XT

The BORA Workhorse XT stood out with its pre-drilled end brackets and a top beam that facilitate the creation of a sacrificial top and the attachment of 2×4 materials, enabling the assembly of a sturdy workstation.

Specifications

• Material:     Steel
• Height:        Adjustable 30 inches to 34 inches.
• Length:       38
• Depth:         4.5
• Weight:       15 lb.
• Capacity:     1,350 lbs. each [2,700 pair]
• Cost:           $ 160.00 [pair]

Observations After Using

Build quality of the BORA Wokhorse XT sawhorse was clearly engineered for durability and reliability. Key features include a weight capacity of 1,350 lbs. per sawhorse, totaling 2,700 lbs. per pair, ensuring ample support for storing stock.

The Bora’s height can be adjusted from 30 to 34 inches in 1-inch increments using an intuitive lever and slide and lock technology, catering to differing user heights or needs. Because the 2×4 slots stick out on the ends of these saw horses you will either love or hate them. I loved them – and we found them study and strong.

Additionally the top is set up for attaching a sacrificial board, and when combined with the side supports you can make a quick and easy support table,

There was a lot to like about the Bora sawhorses, they’re light, super strong, compact and well built. There were two things I did not like about them; you are required to fold one side of the legs first or they will not fold and store properly. The second issue I had is that they do not latch together and for storage.

Central Machinery 30 in. Steel Folding Sawhorses

The Central Machinery 30-inch Steel Folding Sawhorses, sold in a 2-pack, offer robust support for and impressive 2,000 lb. weight capacity.

Specifications

• Material:     Steel
• Height:        30 in.
• Length:       32 in.
• Depth:         5-1/2 in.
• Weight:       16.4 each
• Capacity:     2,000 lbs.
• Cost:           $40.00 pair

Observations After Using

This saw horse features a folding design. Their MDF tops are well-suited for saw cuts, providing a stable work surface. Additionally, the inclusion of a metal crossbar ensures the legs remain securely locked during use, enhancing strength and stability. However, assembly is cumbersome, likened to an “IKEA-like setup,” which is time-consuming and less than enjoyable.

To improve the top of these sawhorses, I utilized a router to round over the sharp edges on the MDF tops, adding a finishing touch to their design.

Upon using the Central Machinery sawhorses, I promptly recognized their difficulty in storing efficiently. Additionally, I observed that the plastic feet on the bottom of the legs tended to detach easily. To address these issues, I took the initiative to wrap the feet in electrical tape, providing a quick and effective solution for enhanced stability and storage convenience.

While these sawhorses deliver reliable performance, at an affordable price point, they don’t meet my needs, and I think they are best suited for DIY enthusiasts.

DEWALT Heavy Duty Work Stand DWX725

As I mentioned in my opening paragraph, up to this point these are the best saw horses that I’ve used, but they take up too much space! The DEWALT Heavy-Duty Work Stand, is built from corrosion-resistant aluminum, offers a reliable solution for storing stock, supporting a standing planks or a sturdy work table

Specifications

• Material:     Aluminum
• Height:         32″H
• Length:       ‎36″L
• Depth:         ‎11″W
• Weight:       15.4 lb.
• Capacity:     1,000 lbs. each [2,000 lbs. pair]
• Cost:            $200 pair

Observations After Using

With a maximum weight capacity of 1,000 lbs. each, this stand accommodates various materials effortlessly. Its lightweight design, weighing only 15.4 lbs., ensures easy transport. Additionally, the stand’s legs lock securely into place, providing dependable stability as you work. The legs feet are large, non-,marring and securely fastened to the legs.

It’s transport latch ensured that both units stay together during transport or storage. When carried separately they have the best carry handle of all the saw horses. When latched together, there is no handle.

My favorite feature on these sawhorses are the leg lock levers which allow easy set up and storage. My least favorite featured is the bulkiness and overall weight of the pair carrying them,  and they take up too much space to store. They also do not like how they adjust in height.

It also accepts optional DW7231 miter saw mounting brackets allowing use as a tool stand. Overall, the DEWALT Heavy-Duty Work Stand combines durability, portability, and safety features to support a wide range of tasks for pros. If you have a lot of of storage space, a box truck or trailer, you cant beat these saw horses.

DEWALT Adjustable Legs Sawhorse

The DEWALT Adjustable Legs Sawhorse combines durability, versatility, and ease of use to provide reliable support for various tasks.

Specifications

• Material:     Steel, Aluminum, Plastic Polymer
• Height:        32.7 in
• Length:       27.2.
• Depth:         2.2 in.
• Weight:       14.17
• Capacity:     2,500 lbs.
• Cost:           $ 70 pair

Observations After Using

Crafted from a high-quality combination of steel, aluminum, and plastic polymer, it boasts a remarkable load capacity of up to 2,500 lbs. per pair. I liken this sawhorse to the Stanley sawhorse, only on steroids!

It has a yellow slide lever that allows easy adjustment of legs separately, catering to uneven surfaces with clear, large numbers indicating height settings.  The legs have rubber feet, and the working bar has a V groove ruler for working with lumber or pipes.

Taller users will appreciate the back-saving adjustable height legs.  While these saw horses are somewhat heavy, their durability and load capacity make them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Unlike cheaper alternatives, they remain stable under pressure and do not fold up or collapse unexpectedly.

I liked the adjusting height, folding mechanism and lightweight design of these saw horses. Despite its ruggedness and lightweight design, we experienced issues with the top brackets designed to hold 2x4s, which broke early on after being deployed to our cold job site. This was a huge bummer because I had such high hopes for this set.

Overall, the DEWALT Adjustable Legs Sawhorse is recommended for those seeking a robust and reliable work support solution for pro users. At the end of all the testing Dan, our lead carpenter chose these  horses for his van. Dan’s favorite sawhorse was the Kreg Workhorse, but his reasoning for choosing the DEWALT was they fold flat and were the easiest to store in his van.

“When you think about it these sawhorses live in the van more then they are set up, I want them to store neatly “~ Dan Shaw

DEWALT Metal Folding Sawhorse

The DEWALT Metal Folding Sawhorse features a robust metal structure designed to hold up to 2000 lbs. as a pair.

Specifications

• Material:     Metal, plastic
• Height:        10.686 in
• Length:       32 in.
• Depth:         4.68 in.
• Weight:       11.8
• Capacity:     2,000 lbs.
• Cost:           $ 80 pair

I liked the two top metal bars which facilitate secure clamping, easily accommodating trigger clamps. Its quick and compact folding capability ensures portability and easy storage, while features such as anti-slip pads on the top and legs enhance stability during use.

Observations After Using

These sawhorses offer exceptional versatility, including a 2×4-inch notches for creating a work station and a large V-groove ideal for handling pipes.  There is no option for mounting a sacrificial board without modifying and drilling the metal bars. At the end of this testing there was a saw kerf in the top rail from someone cutting too deep.

In the center of each sawhorse is a yellow flip handle that facilitates effortless carrying, while yellow side latches enable the convenient securing and transportation of two sawhorses together. While using we noted that the plastic locks popped off once and was reattached, it does seem likely to break over time.

I really liked using this set, in fact, its still in my work van being used. I like its lighter weight, carrying handle and overall compact size for storage.

Fulton StableMate Folding Professional Grade Sawhorse

The Fulton StableMate Folding Professional Grade Sawhorse is a testament to quality craftsmanship, proudly manufactured in Fulton, IL, just two hours west of Chicago along the banks of the Mississippi River. Crafted from robust 16-gauge steel, these American-made sawhorses are way  heavier than the competition, but their durability is unmatched, providing peace of mind for daily use.

Specifications

• Material:     USA Grade Galvanized Steel and welded tubing steel
• Height:        30 in.
• Length:       42 in.
• Depth:         5-1/2 in.
• Weight:       39 lb.
• Capacity:     3,000 lbs.
• Cost:           $ 200 pair

Observations After Using

We were impressed with the galvanized construction, eliminating concerns about leaving them outdoors and exposed to the weather.  Lets face it many sawhorses spend their entire life outdoors. We only set these sawhorses up once and they sit stationary with a pile of material on them. I forgot to get a photo of them, these are stock photos from the company website.

PHOTO: Leg Hinge

The StableMate’s folding legs are solid and have a beautify designed hinge mechanism. The legs lock open and fold and lock closed for convenient and compact storage. The only negative I found with them was that you have to fold one side of the legs first or they won’t fold tightly.

The non-skid rubber feet are solidly made and secured in place. With heavy-duty construction at its core, the Fulton StableMate offers reliable heavy material support.

My impression of these sawhorses is that they are built to last 100 years. Their construction feels robust, almost like diesel-powered.

The fact that they are made in the US, which is a big plus for me. However, they’re also quite heavy, which isn’t what I’m looking for in my daily tool setup. That being said, I’ve found the perfect application for them: they now serve as my material delivery sawhorses, since they can easily hold a pallet of plywood on them.

Bottom line – I was impressed with the build quality, durably, and 3,000 lb. weight capacity. Kudos to you Fulton!

KREG Track Horse

This sawhorse was a crew favorite.  Crafted from steel, aluminum, and plastic polymer, it offers durability and stability for various tasks.

Specifications

• Material:     Steel, Aluminum, Plastic Polymer
• Height:        30 in.
• Length:       42 in.
• Depth:         5-1/2 in.
• Weight:       24 lb.
• Capacity:     2,200 lbs. (997 kg) per pair; 1,100 lbs. (498 kg) individually
• Cost:           $ 360 pair

Observations After Using

The Kreg Track Horse is feature-rich and can be used as a work table and clamping system, not just a saw horse. The Track Horse boasts an impressive weight capacity of 2,200 lbs. per pair ensuring reliable support for heavy materials if needed.

One of its standout features is the dual-mode clamping system, which enables secure holding of work pieces using either the long track on top, or keyhole brackets on the ends, for vise-style clamping. Each Track horse comes with one Kreg Bench Clamp.

One feature I wasn’t particularly enamored with is the side support bracket clips designed to hold 2x4s. While I’m a fan of the 2×4 support, Kreg designed these clips to easily remove to allow access on the side for the Bench clamp. My issue is that there is no good place to store these clips, and I absolutely see them getting lost. I would prefer to have some sort of onboard storage option for them.

The Kregs top track design accommodates sacrificial surfaces, allowing for cutting without damage. Its adjustable legs offer six working heights, ranging from ground-level use with folded legs, to various elevated positions. A large lever unlocks the legs to unfold, or fold for easy storage and transport.

Because these sawhorses are robustly made, they’re large. They also do not latch together or have a carry handle.

Overall, we really like the Kreg Track Horse. It combines versatility, durability, and innovative features to provide a superior work support solution for professionals. However, its higher price point of $179.00 may be considered a drawback for some.

Stanley Folding Work Bench Sawhorse

The Stanley Folding Sawhorses and many other similar, folding sawhorses I have used are the OGs on the job site. They all boast a polypropylene construction and I have always been amazed that they have a capacity of 2,700 pounds as a pair.

Their design includes a V-grooves for secure material placement and clamping, along with top rubber pads to prevent slippage. I’ve been using  sawhorses like these for years because they are so light and easy to transport. I also like that they fold and store easily – but they don’t hold up to the rigors of the job site.

Specifications

• Material:     Polypropylene
• Height:        32.09
• Length:       27.28
• Depth:         4.13
• Weight:       12.6 lb.
• Capacity:     1,350 lbs. each [2,700 pair]
• Cost:           $ 44.00 pair

Folding sawhorses like these come equipped with a tool tray for storing power and hand tools, as well as a side cord hanger feature. We constantly see this tool trays break.  In fact they break too easily, which then causes the sawhorses to collapse under heavier weight. Additionally, the plastic material becomes brittle in cold weather, making it susceptible to damage if dropped.

Best Overall: BORA Workhorse XT

The BORA Workhorse XT stands out as the best overall sawhorse due to its robust construction, adjustable height, and impressive weight capacity of 1350 lbs. per sawhorse, totaling 2700 lbs. per pair.

Engineered with pre-drilled end brackets and a top beam, it offers exceptional versatility for creating a sturdy workstation. Additionally, its intuitive slide and lock technology allow for easy height adjustment from 30 to 34 inches in 1-inch increments, catering to user needs. We felt the BORA Workhorse XT delivered professional-grade expectations for performance and durability, making it the best overall sawhorse for Pros.

Best Bang for the Buck: Central Machinery 30 in. Steel Folding Sawhorses

The Central Machinery 30-inch Steel Folding Sawhorses offer excellent value for money with their sturdy steel construction, 2000 lb. weight capacity, and affordable price of $40.00 for a 2-pack. While assembly may be cumbersome, their folding design and MDF tops make them practical for various workshop tasks. Despite their lightweight design of 16.4 lbs. each, they provide reliable support and stability, making them a cost-effective choice for those on a DIY budget.

As a Pro user the best bang for the buck would be the BORA Work Horse.

Best Light-Duty: Dewalt Metal Folding Sawhorse

The DEWALT Metal Folding Sawhorse excels as the best light-duty option, featuring a durable metal structure with a capacity load of 2,000 lbs. Designed for versatility, it includes a 2×4-inch recess and V-grooves for handling various materials. Its compact folding capability and lightweight design of 11.8 lbs. make it portable and easy to store. Despite potential issues with the plastic locks over time, its affordability at $79.94 and functionality make it ideal for light-duty PRO tasks.

Best Heavy-Duty: Fulton StableMate Folding Professional Grade Sawhorse

The Fulton StableMate Folding Professional Grade Sawhorse takes the top spot as the best heavy-duty sawhorse, boasting a weight capacity of 3000 lbs. Crafted from robust USA Grade Galvanized Steel, it offers unmatched durability and stability for demanding job site conditions. While heavier at 39 lbs., its reliability, non-skid rubber feet, and built-in leg locks ensure safe and secure operation, making it the preferred choice for heavy-duty tasks.

Both the BORA Work Horse and the DEWALT Work Stand are sturdy and support a lot of weight as well. The Fulton holds the most weight of the pack!

Best Workstation: Kreg Track Horse

The Kreg Track Horse was a team favorite and stood out as the best workstation, providing a versatile and sturdy work support system for various applications. With a weight capacity of 2,200 lbs. per pair or 1,100 lbs. individually, the Kreg Track Horse offers users plenty of support and stability. Its dual-mode clamping system, sacrificial surface compatibility, and adjustable legs cater to diverse project needs. Although priced at $179.00 each, its innovative features and durability make it an excellent investment for professionals requiring a reliable sawhorse, or workstation.

Most Portable: DEWALT Adjustable Legs Sawhorse

The DEWALT Adjustable Legs Sawhorse earns the title of the most portable sawhorse, combining durability and versatility in a lightweight design. Weighing 14.17 lbs. and featuring adjustable legs for uneven surfaces, it offers ease of transport and setup. Despite potential issues with the top brackets, its back-saving adjustable height legs and compact folding design make it suitable for on-the-go professionals and DIY enthusiasts seeking portability without sacrificing performance.

Which One Did I Pick?

This evaluation has provided me with valuable insights into the variety of options available for sawhorses. Previously, I had been accustomed to purchasing cheap plastic Stanley sawhorses due to their lightweight and portability. However, I now understand that this initial cost-saving approach led to frequent replacements, costing me approximately $140 annually. Recognizing the value of investing in a better-built sawhorse upfront, I anticipate fewer replacements and less frustration in the long run.

In the end, I opted for the DEWALT metal folding sawhorse and my Lead carpenter opted for the Kreg Track Horse but later reverted to the DEWALT Adjustable Leg folding sawhorse because it stored better in his van, It’s important to note that these are our everyday grab-and-go units for our vans. We both agreed that the Fulton StableMate and DEWALT Work Stand will be our long term material platform. We also agreed that if we were setting up a long term clamping station, router table or assembly table we’d reach for the Kreg workhorse and use them.

Conclusion

When selecting a sawhorse, it’s essential to consider factors such as portability and storage convenience. For those requiring mobility and versatility, sawhorses with folding legs are ideal.

Moreover, the material of the sawhorse significantly impacts its weight and thus its portability. While ABS or plastic sawhorses offer lightweight options, steel folding sawhorses are sturdier but heavier. Heavy-duty models with high-capacity clamps may be more cumbersome to move, so it’s essential to balance weight with durability based on individual needs.

Additionally, considering additional features can enhance functionality and efficiency. Sawhorses with built-in shelves, cord hooks, or clamps provide added convenience for various projects, offering a versatile tailored worktable.

In essence, the decision to invest in a quality sawhorse should be guided by considerations of mobility, durability, and additional features, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for whatever you put it through.

Sawhorse Head-2-Head comparison

Best Sawhorse Head-To-Head is a post from Tool Box Buzz

2023 Holiday Tool Gift Guide

This year’s TBB’s 2023 Holiday Gift Guide will help you pick out the perfect gift(s) for that hard-to-buy-for tradesperson in your life. Especially if you’re shopping for someone who just wants tools but already seems to have too many. Or that special person talks about tools and hardware even when they know you don’t have a clue what they are talking about. Yeah… we’re here to help!  Whether you need that last small gift or are looking to start off with a big bang, we have you covered. We go through the heartache, pain, and suffering of testing out some of the industry’s uniquest (yep, that’s a real word), most practical, and just plain coolest tools and job site gadgets to create a full-spectrum holiday gift guide.

To help you out, regardless of your budget, we broke down the tools by price categories which are:

• $30 and under:  The Simple gift
• $30-75:  The Perfect gift
• $75-200:  The Surefire gift
• Over $200:  Santa’s REALLY nice list!

And all of the tools in our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide are ones that are in our job site kits or our Pros’ workshops. So hang some lights and then get ready to hang out with us for a bit.

$30 and under Gifts | The Simple gift

• DEWALT Elite Ceramic-Coated Abrasives

If you are trying to think of something small to finish off your list or throw in a stocking these DEWALT abrasive discs are awesome. They come in a variety of sizes to fit a wide range of angle grinders. The ceramic abrasive quality is second to none. It may not seem exciting but having discs on hand that don’t burn out in a hurry is awesome when you’re in the middle of metal fabrication of any kind. It’s a fun way to let someone try a new brand or style of something they may already buy on a regular basis.

Purchase at DEWALT for $8-20

• Kobalt 24 & 48 in. Levels

We’re sure you builder has calibrated eyeballs (just like us) and doesn’t always need a level. But when they do… have them reach for one of these Kobalt levels. The 24″ level is great for most common indoor tasks like hanging pictures or shelves. And the 48″ level is great for more intense tasks like leveling framing or as a straight edge for plywood or drywall sheets. The bubbles on these Kobalt levels are easy to see, they are durable, and best of all the price is reasonable.

Purchase at Lowes for $18-25

• Milwaukee Tape Measure 2-Pack Set

We will probably never have a holiday gift guide without a tape measure. This year it’s the Milwaukee tape measures that caught our eye. They are the most essential tool at hand and one that typically wears out from such frequent use. These tape measures are easy to read, have a solidly designed locking lever, and are rugged as hell. They have great extension rigidity until they hit their fold point. They are sure to last until you decide to replace them next holiday season (and beyond). You cant go wrong with a Milwaukee tape measure.

Purchase at Home Depot for $20

• Gerber Zilch Knife

If you’ve relied on any of our previous holiday gift guides you’ll know that we love a good pocket knife. Chances are your tool lover may as well. Look for further than the Gerber Zilch. This is a sharp-as-hell out of the box, straightforward folding knife. There are multiple color schemes to choose from (we loved the tactical coyote brown and black knife). Its lightweight and sports a great belt clip. The locking mechanism is a standard inside handle locking tab design and it works great.

Purchase at Gerber for $25

• Elgin Firebolt Flashlight

The Elgin Firebolt is a well-rounded flashlight in every way. First, it features a tough yet lightweight metal case. And the case is hex shaped to prevent it from rolling off work surfaces. It also has a magnetic integrated into the side so you can stick it on a close metal surface to work hands free. Second, its satisfyingly bright (~100 lumens) for a single LED light. And third, the battery life (2x AAA batteries) is surprisingly efficient. And the IP66 rating means it’s actually quite weatherproof. Shoot, get a couple to leave in the shop or in some vehicles and you’ll be reaping the rewards of a solid holiday purchase for a long time to come.

Purchase at Elgin USA for $25

• Ryobi USB Rechargeable Inflator

Having an inflator in your vehicle can be a literal lifesaver. The Ryobi USB-battery digital readout inflator works wonderfully. It’s the most compact battery powered inflator we’ve used and includes an integrated inflator needle if you need to fill up a ball. The USB battery is recharged using a Type C USB cord which is pretty universal these days. Getting the tire pressure low warning on a cold winter morning is no fun but skipping a quick trip to the gas station or firing up your air compressor saves time and frustration.

Purchase at Home Depot for $30

• Milwaukee Hex Key Set

There are few things more annoying than having a missing hex key when you are in the middle of a task involving small bolts or fasteners. This Milwaukee hex key set eliminates that hassle by conveniently mounting common hex key sizes on a flip out style handle. The handle, unlike some cheaper versions, is sturdy and won’t crack under the torque applied from breaking free stuck fasteners. They are compact and easy to store too with hardened metal that won’t strip easily. These make a great small gift or stocking stuffer for sure!

Purchase at Home Depot for $30

$30-75 Gifts | The Perfect gift

• Craftsman Versastack Tool Box

A good storage option is always appropriate. And the Craftsman Versastack Deep Tool Box is a great option in the storage department. It checks all the boxes we look for — weather protected (IP54 rated), stackable, reconfigurable, durable, and cost effective. The last thing we want is to spend more on the toolbox than the tools inside them. But the Versastack is not a compromise as much as its a innovative solution. It allows you to fit a variety of tools and parts in mutliple compartments to make getting them safely to and from a jobsite hassle free.

Purchase at Lowes for $38

• KREG Rip Cut System

For those of us that may not have a panel saw set up in the garage or want to go through the hassle of laying out and fitting up a track saw… check out the KREG Ripcut System. This system incorporates a universal base to house your circular saw and a sturdy, adjustable guide bar to quickly and easily Rip panels to desired widths. It takes up hardly any space and is surprisingly accurate for rough carpentry jobs. And in this price category it probably doesn’t break the bank either.

Purchase at Home Depot for $40

• Microjig Dovetail Ratchet Clamp

One of our shop Pros recently needed some quick-adjusting clamps with a dovetail-compatible foot for a table saw rail and CNC table hold-downs. He tested out these Microjig Dovetail Ratchet Clamps and loved them. The foot securely slides along a T-Track or dovetail groove. The foot firmly ratchets into place and includes a spring mechanism to allow it to maintain its setting despite gravity’s best efforts. The angle of the foot is designed to work with a 14-degree dovetail as well so this clamp allows for completely custom jig and clamp designs that can be reconfigured with ease.

Purchase at Microjig for $42

• KREG Drawer Front Mounting System

We couldn’t decide which KREG tool we loved more (see above) so we decided to include the KREG drawer front mounting system as well. This custom jig set makes quick, accurate, and repeatable work of mounting drawer fronts on custom drawers. So not only does this work great for new build projects on the horizon but can also help with renovating current installs with easy drawers’ front swaps to upgrade your current abode. It’s another space efficient, low cost, unique tool that your tool lover might not realize they’ve always wanted.

Purchase at Kreg for $50

• Gearwrench 3-Ton Jackstand Set

Does your tool hound like to get under a hood and turn a wrench? If so, or if they aspire to, then check out the new Gearwrench 3 ton jack stands. They have a double pin locking feature for an added safety feature to make sure the vehicle you’re working on stays where it should – above you! They are rugged and offer an industry standard wide base and ratcheting adjustment design. Plus the yellow powder coat finish looks great… especially if your gift getter has other gold toned tools in the shop!

Purchase at ACME Tools for $50

• Garret Wade Caliper & Compass set

Fine craftsmanship and finish carpentry require precision. So whether your making sure the thickness of your substrates and materials is exactly the same or ensuring that multiple work points have the same center radius offset, these Garret Wade precision tools are perfect. They are crafted from solid back steel with brass fittings. So they not only are designed well but look outstanding. They come in a convenient storage box that will ensure they stay in place to be handed down to the next generation of woodworker in your family line.

Purchase at Garret Wade for $50

• Ryobi USB Rechargeable Soldering Pen

You know what we don’t love? Contorting our bodies into confined spaces while doing plumbing or electrical work and THEN having to manipulate a hot soldering iron and cord with Flux and wire. So we love a cordless option here to make maneuvering to secure (or resecure) a tight to reach pipe or wire connection. The Ryobi USB soldering iron incorporates a Type-C USB rechargeable, 2 Ah battery into a compact design to create a functional yet lightweight and comparatively inexpensive option to benefit any homeowner DIYer. It’s definitely worth considering!

Purchase at Home Depot for $70

$75-200 Gifts | The Surefire gift

• Bosch Colt 1-HP Palm Router

Palm or trim routers are very useful tools to ensure smooth laminates or layer-ed glue-up tasks. As far as routers go, they are lightweight and portable. The Bosch Colt 1-HP palm router is impressively powerful and smooth and stands out in this compact router class. It is great for small shops where power and outlets are plentiful. It is also an excellent choice for any CNC router tools and investments which is a task we tested heavily while trying out the Bosch Colt. The variable speed dial is responsive and stays in place despite constant vibrations which is an important feature. The collet was easy to access, and the quick release collar was well designed and easy to adjust. All in all, this is a great trim router option with all the core features we look for in a corded option.

Purchase at Lowes for $79

• Elgin Rampage Headphones

We’ve had Elgin USA hearing protection on our shops for years and are as impressed with them today as we were when we first put them on. And we appreciate a variety of designs to match a variety of tasks. So, while we love Elgin’s REBEL earbuds for welding and grinding, the RAMPAGE headphones are awesome for tasks like cutting and nailing. They fit snugly over your ears without becoming uncomfortable after hours of use. They offer a respectable 25 dB noise rating (OSHA compliant!) and connect to a phone via Bluetooth. Best of all though the button design was designed in an easy-to-operate-even-with-work gloves way. Use it to adjust volume or make calls with the integrated mic. These is truly a well thought out piece of hearing protection.

Purchase at Elgin USA for $85

• Go Rhino HS-30 Hitch Step

Not all of those getting gifts are young and spry. So if your gift target might be a little slower or more careful reaching into the bed of their truck these days, check out the Rhino hitch step. It’s a straightforward design that fits into a standard 2 in. female hitch receiver. Between the heavy-duty steel, powder coat finish, and non-slip surface treatment, this is a rugged and practical gift that will earn its keep time and time again. Even better? The angled-corners design of the HS-30 means that if you forget it’s mounted at walk into it (not that we ever do that) you are less likely to hobble away with a serious injury.

Purchase at Real Truck for $86

• Bosch BLAZE 165 ft. Green Laser Measuring Tool

When you need to frequently take long distance measurements this is the tool for you. But this Bosch BLAZE (GLM165-25G) does way more than just straight liine measurements. Integrated features include: Fixed/Continuous measurement, area, volume, indirect height, and wall area calculating among others. The green laser is extremely bright and easy to see even in full daylight at distance. And if you’re skeptical on its precision don’t be; this laser measurement tool is accurate to +/- 1/16 in.  Bosch included a haptic vibrate feature so even if you’re on a loud jobsite, you can still feel confirmation of button presses even if you can’t hear the audible beeps. Lastly, the BLAZE is a rugged design ready for the elements with an IP65 weather-protected rating and reinforced housing. This is a great investment for PROs and folks doing onsite estimates and measurement with regularity.

Purchase at Home Depot for $97

• Gerber FAST Tanto Knife

Does a knife enthusiast ever have enough knifes? Nope, no way. So if you’re looking for a good knife option with some unique features you should consider Gerber’s FAST Tanto knife. Gerber has an assisted opening design, called FAST, that makes this knife as fun to open as it is to use. It’s got a great textured grip that helps keep it firmly in your grip. And the black Tanto-style blade is different than your average round edged blade and really stands out. And at $99 its a mid-range option that feels more high end than that!

Purchase at Gerber for $99

• Kobalt Utility Cart

There is nothing more frustrating than setting down a tool mid task only to turn around and have it disappear. We blame it on shop Gremlins… Having a utility cart that easily rolls from task to task is a life saver for keeping the Gremlins at bay. This Kobalt cart makes it easy to sort and store your tools and accessories as you go. It saves you time and frustration. And can even prevent you from losing or accidently breaking pieces and having to re-buy them. It’s a great option that may not be the first thing they think of or ask for.

Purchase at Lowes for $119

• Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats

We admittedly put our work trucks through their paces. So, one of the first things we make sure they have is some heavy-duty rubber floor mats. These Husky floor mats fit like a glove and are built to stand up to the rigors of a work crew. But that doesn’t mean that they are only for work trucks. They look so good that they are an instant upgrade to any vehicle – cars, vans included. The only vehicle we wouldn’t put them on is a motorcycle. They are a breeze to pull out and hose or power wash off as well. And the sectioned design means that spills of mud won’t spill off the edges of the mat. Grab a set for an easy win.

Purchase at Real Truck for $60-199 ($125 as shown)

• Gearwrench Rolling Mechanics Seat

Sometimes it’s nice to get off your feet in the workshop. And when you can do that in a seat designed to make shop or mechanic work easier than all the better. This Gearwrench rolling mechanics seat features an adjustable height air shock and full 360-degree swivel to allow you to adjust to any angle or position required by the task at hand. Its powder-coated steel finish and rubberized, solvent-resistant seat are built to last. And maybe best of all? The base hoses 5 magnetic pie-shaped storage trays to conveniently hold your small parts as you work. Don’t wait to load one up so your holiday recipient can take a load off.

Purchase at Home Depot for $135

• Craftsman OVERDRIVE 121-piece Mechanics Tool Set

Another staple we like to include for gift guides is a well thought out hand tool set. And Craftsman’s OVERDRIVE mechanics set is a great option. It has all the common wrenches and sockets your tool lover will need to tackle any nut and bolt-based task they can dream up. It has a wide range of both metric and SAE sizes conveniently packaged in a hardshell clam case to keep them secure and accounted for. The gunmetal grey style finish looks great too. Plus, these sockets and wrenched meet or exceed all AMSE certified tolerances so they are plug and play for any commercial uses as well. You can’t go wrong here with this mechanics set from Craftsman, especially with an extra $50 off for the holidays.

Purchase at Lowes for $149

• Garret Wade 333 drill/driver Bit Set

Can we ever have enough drill and driver bits? No… we cannot. And this Garret Wade 333-piece drill and driver accessory set is a huge step in ensuring you always have the drill and driver bits you need on hand. The case makes for secure and organized storage which can be a huge timesaver vs. hunting for a loose accessory. Drill bit styles include: long and short masonry, long and short spade, TiN twist, black oxide twist, and brad point bits. Driver bits include: 100 hex shank drivers of every description, a drill sizer, multiple nail sets, drill stop collars, a countersink, and a dozen fractional socket drivers. Yeah, it’s a complete set for sure!

Purchase at Garret Wade for $160 (on sale)

• Danner Bull Run Chelsea Boots 6 in.

When you’re on your feet for hours at a time, usually on hard, rocky, or uneven surfaces, a good pair of work boots makes a world of difference. Enter the Danner Bull Run Chelsea boots. They look great and feel just as good. The Ortholite sole and steel shank keep your foot well supported and protected, as does Electrical Hazard protected sole (ASTM F2892-18 rated). In addition, the traction is oil and slip resistant while the lace-free slip on design means that wood or metal shavings and slag won’t get trapped in the tongue or laces. These boots are a great value considering they’re under $200. And if the person receiving them is inclined to get them re-soled vs replace them down the road then that’s even an option as well. There’s a reason Danner has a great reputation and these boots definitely live up to it!

Purchase at Danner Boots for $173

• Ryobi 18V Cordless Drill & Driver +2 Combo Kit

There was no way we could put together a gift guide without featuring a cordless too combo. We were still surprised to be able to put the tool combo in this price category though. Here’s the kicker though; this 2-tool Drill Driver combo comes with 2 free additional tools to choose from. Besides that, this Drill Driver combo kit is worth the cost on its own. It makes easy work of 1/4 in. hex shank bits and round bits up to 1/2 in. diameter while providing ample power for any DIY task you throw at it. Ryobi’s ONE+ 18V lineup has countless compatible tools so this is a great starting point for anyone looking to get into a cordless DIY lineup!

Purchase at Home Depot for $199

• Helly Hansen Insulated Oxford Work Jacket

Having to work outside on a cold jobsite in the winter can be miserable. So, we are always open to outdoor workwear to keep up warm and comfortable so we can focus on our work and not the weather. The Helly Hansen Insulated Oxford Jacket is a heavy-duty option that is warm and comfortable. We were impressed that it didn’t impede our overall mobility as much as other winter workwear we’ve tried out. Plus, It looks awesome so you can wear it out on weekends, and it will still impress. Helly Hansen is a go to brand for us because they deliver great looking, tough clothes that are built with the details in mind. And the insulated Oxford Jacket exemplifies these traits.

Purchase at Helly Hansen Workwear for $199

• Gearwrench 3 & 3.5 Low-Profile Ton Jacks

So, if you’re considering 3-ton jack stands why not up the ante with a heavy-duty jack from Gearwrench to go with it? Whether you opt for a standard 3 ton or 3.5-ton low profile jack, they’ll be thrilled. These are automotive tech geared, professional-level floor jacks. They offer exceptional speed and ease of lifting in a rugged piece of equipment. The protected handle is a nice feature to prevent accidental automotive paint scratching while the dual pistons create a smooth and easier lifting action. They even have an integrated small parts storage spot to throw small parts so they don’t get lost. Lastly, these jacks are certified to the ASME PASE lifting standard to keep any commercial uses industry safety compliant.

Purchase at ACME Tools for $190-220

$200+ Gifts | Santa’s REALLY Nice List!

• Milwaukee M18 Cordless Finish Nailer, 18GA

Here’s a simple fact… waiting for air compressors and dancing around air hoses is not ideal. So when we tested out the Milwaukee 18V finish nailer a while back, it didn’t take long for us to fall in love. This nailer is as smooth and reliable as any pneumatic one we’ve used without the hassle. and with approx. 1500 nails on a single 2Ah battery, the battery life won’t hold you back. It offers versatility and performance in a compact design that upholds Milwaukee’s standards of excellence. it is a great addition to the M18 lineup and would make a great gift for the handyperson on your shopping list. It also made it a great inclusion in our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide.

Purchase at Home Depot for $249

• Dovoh 3-plane 360-degree H3 laser level

We were very impressed with Dovoh’s new 3-plane, 360-degree laser. It has all the features we hoped for — super bright (110mw), green laser lines with fantastic optics (up to 197 ft!), rugged construction with a secure case and good rechargeable battery life up to 18 hrs (plus it comes with a spare battery).  The Dovoh 3-plane laser gives you the ability to easily switch between auto level mode or angle lock mode for non-level line projections. And it’s among the best as far as level accuracy goes (±1/13 in. at 33ft). It comes ready to mount on a standard tripod 1/4 in. x 20 threat mount. The magnetic base with the fine adjustment design allows you to easily get the exact alignment you need. And if you’re hesitant about going with a new brand, know that Dovoh backs their products with a 2-Year Quality Warranty + 5-Year Accuracy Warranty!

Purchase at Dovoh for $279 (10% off w/ code SASOFF10)

• DEWALT 20V Cordless Belt Sander

Most woodworkers have a variety of sanders, and a few of them are likely to be cordless. But a belt sander is often thought of as a corded tool and may not be one of them. The DEWALT 20V cordless belt sander (Bare tool) may just change this assumption. It proves power on par with mane 110V corded belt sanders. Better yet it features a swiveling shop vac port that provides good flexibility and a dust decreased (never free) environment. They lock-on button is easy to use, and the variable-speed trigger and dial settings allow for a wide range of speed settings. Loading new sandpaper is easy with the quick release lever too. and the 3×21 in. roll size is comparatively large for a cordless belt sander. This is on Santa’s really good list for a reason; it’s a really good sander!

Purchase at Lowes for $299 (Tool Only)

• Lund Duraloader Arched Aluminum Folding Truck Ramps

We load/unload a lot of tools and equipment into our work trucks. So anything that makes that job easier and lowers our risk of breaking them or hurting ourselves while doing it is a great thing. The Lund Duraloader Arched Folding Ramps are priceless when it comes to loading your truck. And if your gift receiver regularly loads an ATV, dirt bike, lawn mower, or other power equipment with wheels into a truck and doesn’t have a good set of ramps then just commit to these ramps now. They are long (10 ft.) and arched to provide a shallow entry angle and prevent bottoming out while loading. They only weigh 17 lbs yet can support 750 lbs per ramp. And they fold in half for easy truck bed storage. They are made of durable aluminum and have a great grip design to prevent slips and falls even in slick conditions.

Purchase at Real Truck for $299 (per ramp)

• Kobalt 7 in. 20V Cordless Wet Tile Saw

We were thrilled to test this tool out since the versatility offered by a cordless tile saw is phenomenal. cutting tile is not something that many folks think cordless for but after testing out the Kobalt 24V tile saw, you may want to reconsider. The water basin design does a good job of catching spray to recirculate while the full sliding top is smooth and allows for repeatable and accurate cuts to a variety of sized tiles. This tool is a godsend when working in a renovation with no power. It limits trips to and from the saw to remeasure tile fit since you can easily bring the saw right to your tiling location. And you don’t have to fight for generator outlets or drags cords to get there. Awesome!

Purchase at Lowes for $380

HAPPY HOLIDAYS… | 2023 Holiday Gift Guide!

We know shopping for tool lovers is definitely a labor of love. It makes you ask “What do you get someone who seems to already have everything?” Just trust TBB’s 2023 Holiday Gift Guide to give you some great suggestions whether you are looking for the perfect small gift or that one unbelievable, big gift. Happy Holidays from the Tool Box Buzz Team!

2023 Holiday Gift Guide is a post from Tool Box Buzz

 TBB’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

TBB’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide will help you pick out the perfect gift(s) for that hard-to-buy-for tradesperson in your life. Especially if you’re shopping for someone who just wants tools but already seems to have too many. Or that special person talks about tools and hardware even when they know you don’t have a clue what they are talking about. Yeah… we’re here to help!  Whether you need that last small gift or are looking to start off with a big bang, we have you covered. We go through the heartache, pain, and suffering of testing out some of the industry’s uniquest (yep, that’s a real word), most practical, and just plain coolest tools and job site gadgets to create a full-spectrum holiday gift guide.

To help you out, regardless of your budget, we broke down the tools by price categories which are:

• $50 and under:  The simple and/or “add on” gift
• $50-100:  The standard gift category
• $100-200:  The solid winner gift
• Over $200:  Santa’s REALLY nice list!

And all of the tools in our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide are ones that are in our job site kits or our Pros’ workshops. So hang some lights and then get ready to hang out with us for a bit.

$50 and under Gifts | The simple and/or “add on” gift

• Craftsman Magnetic Cup Holder

If your Tool lover spends [too much] time in their workshop, and especially if they have a beverage or two while there, then this  is the perfect gift. Just sneak out there and look at any steel-topped surface like a table saw or jointer. See any rust rings? Well this inexpensive gift will eliminate those and give your person a place to put their drink after they work up a sweat and need to take a break. It’s magnetic and can also be mounted with screws, which we love.

Purchase at Lowes for $15

• Microjig GRR-RIP  Push Block & Fit Finder

It’s always fun to get a new tool but it’s equally important to use them safely. If you want your Tool Lover to keep all their fingers intact then you should check out the Microjig GRR-RIP Push Block. It has “smart hooks” that fold up on a flat surface or stay down to catch the back edge of a piece of wood being pushed through the table saw or jointer. It has a long surface area and great grip to make it super easy to keep a solid hold on your workpiece as you push it through the blade. The Fit Finder is an ingenious tool for finding the half thickness measure of a piece of wood or metal material. You slide the “P2” piece to the height of the material and the “P3” piece automatically adjusts to the halfway mark. It’s awesome for making easy lap joints on a table saw or even finding the center of a pipe or round lathe blank.

Purchase the GRR-RIP Push Block for $35

Purchase the Fit Finder for $34

• Spyder Shop Stool

Standing for long periods of time doesn’t always feel great. Especially on a concrete or hard packed floor. In work boots. So give your builder a sweet stool to take a break on. The Spyder stool is just the right height for a standard workbench, shop countertop, or draftsman’s table. The flared-out legs make it very stable and the boot bars give you a nice place to rest your feet while sitting.

Purchase at Lowes for $49

• Kreg 1/4 in Shank Router Flush-Trim Bit

We’ve used flush trim router bits A LOT in or work shops over the years. But when Kreg let us test out their new flush trim bits that feature top AND bottom mounted guide bearings we were immediately excited. These allow you to trim 1 1/8 in. thick material. The 1/4 in. shank paired great with the Ridgid Trim router featured below but Kreg also makes these in a 1/2 in. shank version. Like any decent router bit they sport a carbide edge and work great for template cutting. If your tool lover uses a handheld or table-mounted router then these are a must have.

Purchase at ACME Tools for $15

• Spyder Mach Blue Drill Bits

Drill bits are always a great gift because they sometimes break or get lost or just plain get dull. These Spyder bits look as good as they perform. The Blue finish also makes it easy to tell them apart from older bits that aren’t part of the set. The hex shank means they work with standard impact drivers as well as drill bits. The clear front case also makes it easy to keep track of missing drill bits before you store them away. They’ll love them!

Purchase at Lowes for $40

• DEWALT Oscillating Multi-Tool Blade Set

We use our Oscillating Multi Tool (OMT) all the time, whether cutting trim or leveling off protruding nail heads. But these tasks take their toll and the blades, no matter how good, get dull or chip off teeth. This is a great set from a great manufacturer. It has a good variety of blade shapes for a range of common materials. The case is handy and keeps the blades securely in place. And at $35 it’s a great value for what you’re getting from DEWALT!

Purchase at Home Depot for $35

• Crescent 4-Piece Chisel Set

Chisels may not be the first hand tool to come to mind but we use our consistently. Whether cleaning up a mortice and tenon joint or creating a just-right hinge recess, chisels are incredibly handy hand tools. This 4 Piece chisel set from Crescent holds their edge well and gives you the 4 basic sizes you need to tackle most any job. They are all steel construction with a large striking surface on the backside of the handle. The handle is really comfortable and grippy (you know what we mean) as well, so it won’t slip when you need to give it a good hammer strike.

Purchase at ACME Tools for $33

• Apex 11-Piece Pass Through Wrench Set

You might be thinking, my tool person already has wrenches. Too many wrenches for me to keep track of. But do they have a through wrench? A through wrench is built for ratcheting down nuts on long bolts or threaded rod. This Apex through wrench is even better because the through socket port is on the backend of an adjustable wrench. You get 2 tools in one here which makes it great to throw in your bag or truck and use on a number of jobs or tasks. Plus, the black-edition finish just looks sexy.

Purchase at Home Depot for $34

• Ryobi Li-USB Carver Kit

Sometimes you need a big saw or blade to make a big cut. But what about the smaller, detail cuts? Enter the Ryobi Carver kit. This rechargeable cordless charger kit comes with 3 blade designs: Straight, V-Gouge, and U-Gouge. It’s the prefect option for relief carving or restoration projects. Its lightweight and comfortable and delivers surprising power and utility for its size. And at $50 it’s not going to break the bank. This is a definite winner from Ryobi and something your tool lover might not have yet.

Purchase at Home Depot for $50

• Gerber Knives | Lockdown Slim Pry & Shark Belly Plain

We love knives. They may be one of the simplest and oldest hand tools around. These Gerber knives are awesome. The Lockdown Slim Pry (left) features 7 essential tools from a standard knife to a bottle opener, to a mini pry bar. It’s housed in a low-profile design that is both modern and easy to slide into your pocket. The Shark Belly (right) is an everyday carry, single blade pocketknife with a modern sheepsfoot blade and textured Sharkskin Grip. It has a scratch-resistant pocket clip and holds an edge quite impressively. Both knives come with Gerber’s awesome limited lifetime warranty as well.

Purchase at Gerber for $45/$47

$50-100 Gifts | The standard gift category

• Bora Tools 40 in. Parallel Clamp

We are big fans of Bora Tools Parallel clamps. They are often the go-to shop clamps. These 40 in. Bora parallel clamps are rugged and with the parallel face design offer even clamping pressure (up to 1100 lbs!) over the length of both clamping feet. They are designed to last with high quality steel and composite materials and come with removable work surface contact pads.  The orange color is easy to spot and they are built to last. The price point is on par compared to other manufacturers. So check them out at the links below.

Purchase at Bora for $56 (single)

Purchase at Home Depot for $100 (2-pack)

• Microjig Blade & Bit Cleaning System

We are big fans of keeping our equipment in the best shape possible to extend tool life and overall performance. The Microjig Blade cleaning system is an easy way to meet this goal. It allows you to use all-purpose cleaner (we used Mr. Clean) and a gentle abrasive pad to easily (and safely!) clean circular saw blades up to 12 in. as well as both 1/4 and 1/2 in. router bits. This is especially helpful if you’ve been working with soft woods that may have sap or pitch in the lumber and can heat up and stick to the blade when cutting. The included magnetic blade handle is also great for changing out blades on your table or miter saw. And at $99 its a small investment that has some serious long-term advantages!

Purchase the Blade & Bit Clean System for $99

• Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener

We’ve featured a lot of tools and knives in our articles. Now we want to give you an option to sharpen them once you dull them out. This Work sharp knife and tool sharpener is our handheld offering to meet that need. it can easily sharpen every knife and tool you own. It uses flexible belts set at just the right angle to quickly restore the edge on your blades. The work Sharp knife and tool sharpener also has sharpening guides, and a two-speed motor and is very comfortable and user friendly. It even comes with a decent carry bag.

Purchase at Worksharp tools for $99

• Elgin Rumble (and Rebel) Earbuds

You know we prioritize safety at Tool Box Buzz. Power tools pose a long-term risk to hearing. So grab a pair of Elgin OSHA-compliant, NRR 27 decibel rated Rumble ear buds. We love them because they combine great hearing protection with clear audio quality. The earbud design with silicone ear tips and over ear hooks also means they stay securely in place even when running vibrating tools or wielding hand tools. Ear buds also offer the added advantage of working great with eye protection or headgear, such as grinding shields or welding helmets. The battery life is great on these Elgin earbuds, and they are IP67 rated meaning they are dust and sweat proof, essential jobsite characteristics. Elgin also sent us a pair of the Rebel Earbuds (which have no neck wire) and with an even more impressive NRR rating of 25 decibels, they are also great. Plus, the impact-resistant case even has a built in LED flashlight. At $129 they are a better fit in the next price category though.

Purchase at Elgin USA for $99

• Stanley Socket Set, Black Edition

If you need a full-spectrum socket set, as opposed to a small truck-friendly one (like the Apex set above), then check out this Stanley socket set. It has a sturdy molded case and everything you need at a great price to include both 1/4 in and 3/8 in shallow and deep sockets. And the black chrome finish with laser engraved markings is super easy to read which is great compared to all-stainless finish. This Stanley 69-piece socket set has everything you need and exceeds ANSI industry standards.

Purchase at Home Depot for $68

• Gear Wrench 10-Piece Bolt Biter Extractor Set

Broken fasteners are an unavoidable headache for any experienced builder or tool hound. The Gear Wrench Bolt Biter 10-piece set is the perfect solution to this problem. Made of high-quality steel and featuring a fluted edge design, they are made to last. It’s also super convenient to have the right-sized drill bits in the same storage case. They are also bi-directional meaning they can also tighten, not just loosen. This is great for those times it’s easier to drive the busted fastener the rest of the way through the material its embedded in. These are a necessity for anyone in the construction industry.

Purchase at Home Depot for $70

• Ryobi 18V 6-Port Supercharger

We love cordless tools and have featured countless reviews on Ryobi battery-powered tools over the years. If your tool lover uses Ryobi 18V power tools, then buy this. Why? Because instead of having to plug in one battery at a time, this charger allows you to plug in 6 batteries into a single charger. It charges them one at a time, in series, so when you head out to your shop later on, you’ll have 6 charged Ryobi 18V batteries waiting for you. And because it’s the intelliport SUPERCHARGED version, its cuts down on charging time compared to standard Ryobi 18V charging times. It works on Lithium or older Ni-Cd batteries and has an integrated USB charger to simultaneously charge a USB device while powering up batteries.

Purchase at Home Depot for $89

$100-200 Gifts | The Solid Winner Gift

• Diablo 8″ Stacked Dado Blade Set

This Diablo 8 in. stacked Dado blade set checks all the boxes we look for in a blade system. The blades have a low-friction coating, Carbide tipped blade teeth (that are resharpenable), shims for precision adjustments, and a carrying case. The set is designed to fit standard 5/8 in. arbors and features negative hook angles to produce splinter free edges and flat bottom grooves as advertised. This set is even ideal for underpowered saws because it requires less power to feed. And at $115, these blades are an investment that will allow you to custom build cabinets and shelving using precision dado and rabbet cuts for years to come. There’s a reason Diablo blades are common in all our TBB shops and this set will show you why!

Purchase at Home Depot for $115

• Little Giant 22-Ft Multi-Position Ladder

We are huge fans of a tool that has multiple uses. This Little Giant 22 ft. multi position ladder exemplifies this characteristic. It works as an A-frame, extension, 90-degree, or tressel-and-plank ladder. It has spring-assisted rapid locks to make position changes simple and secure. The wide flared legs make for a very stable base and help it meet or exceed all OSHA and ANSI industry standards. It’s crafted from aluminum and weighs in at a mere 38 lbs, yet holds up to 300 lbs. And best of all it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. At a sale price of $179 this is a great value for a great ladder!

Purchase at Lowes for $179

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Angle Grinder

As the saying goes, don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. So don’t ask why Milwaukee is offering this kit for $199 (it’s usually over $500) and just buy it. Milwaukee FUEL products are among the most popular and prolific on any Professional jobsite. This Milwaukee 18V FUEL grinder is no exception. It features our preferred paddle switch design, multi-position mountable handle, and tool-free guard and blade adjustments. In addition, this M18 Grinder has REDLINK Plus, which is an electronic feature that allows the tool to talk to the battery to deliver the most power. This grinder is a beast and on par with any 11-Amp corded grinder we’ve used. It also comes with 2x 5.0 Ah RED Lithium batteries and a charger. This makes for one sweet gift! Find additional details at the TBB review article here.

Purchase at Home Depot for $199

• DEWALT 5-Inch 20V Orbital Sander

There’s nothing better than the final sanding on a beautiful hand-crafted creation. And this DEWALT 20V, 5-inch orbital sander kit is the perfect choice to get it done. It comes with a comfortable and powerful sander, 2Ah battery, charger, and sweet canvas storage bag. It has all the features you need including a variable speed switch that allows you to set the sander to anywhere from 8,000 and 12,000-OPMs. You can also hook a 1 7/8 in. dust extractor to it or use it with the included one-hand-removable dust bag. It’s lightweight and well balanced and at $129, its $100 cheaper than usual. We also have a TBB review article for that too!

Purchase at Lowes for $129

• Milwaukee M18 1/4 Sheet Sander

Keeping with our theme of finish sanding, the Milwaukee M18, 1/4 sheet sander is a great finish option for those tool lovers that already own (or want to own) Milwaukee tools. It’s a high-performing, variable-speed sander that oscillated anywhere from 11000-1300 OPMs. Additionally, it’s 2-stem clamp system for holding down the paper works perfectly. And the universal hose adapter and removable dust bag both did a great job collecting the dust we made. This sander also features Milwaukee’s REDLINK Plus (like the angle grinder above), to enable tool to battery communication and deliver optimized power. As far as cordless quarter-sheet sanders go, you can’t do any better than this Milwaukee one!

Purchase at Home Depot for $149

• Kreg PRO720 Pocket Hole Jig

Kreg has made a name for itself in the pocket hole jog game. And the PRO720 exemplifies why. This multi-featured jig uses Automaxx clamping action to single-handedly clamp onto materials 1/2-1 1/2 in thick. The Gripmaxx surface holds material securely in place so the pocket holes are exactly where you want them to be every time. The chip ejection port (with optional shop vac attachment) helped keep the clamping area relatively free of dust and shavings while the on-board accessory storage was incredible handy in keeping the easy to lose bits, collet, and wrench securely in place. The blend of impact-resistant polymer and steel framing make this a durable, high-quality jig that your tool lover is sure to enjoy.

Purchase at ACME Tools for $109

• Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hybrid Propane Heater

It’s easier to work in a comfortable space, so why not get your workshop dweller a heater to keep their space warm? The Ryobi 18V hybrid propane heater is a great choice. It offers the option to run off a standard Ryobi 18V Lithium battery or plug directly into a 110V wall outlet. A standard 20 lb propane tank will last you around 12 hrs if you run it at the lowest heat setting. Although it blasts anywhere from 30000-60000 BTUs. And have no fear, even the lowest setting puts off some impressive heat! It features an internal fan to help circulate the hot air and enabling it to effectively heat up to 2500 sq/ft. The electronic ignition is easy to use and its a very light unit making it quite easy to carry around.

Purchase at Home Depot for $149

• Gerber Knives | US-Assist S30V & Dual Force Multitool

OK, OK. I know we already included some knives in a prior section. But some knife lovers have refined tastes. And some tool lovers are always after the newest and best multi-tool. Gerber has you covered in both cases. The US-Assist S30V (right) is a spring-assisted, bearing based single blade knife. It looks sleek and functions flawlessly. It’s boasts S30 high-grade steel, perfectly placed thumb studs, and a phenomenal cross lock system to keep the blade locked, whether open or closed. The Dual Force (left) is a multi-tool highlighted by its impressive slip-jaw pliers. In standard multi-tool fashion, it also boasts 11 other tools mostly housed within its butterfly opening design. It comes with a rugged nylon sheath. And as before, both tools also come with Gerber’s awesome limited lifetime warranty!

Purchase at Gerber for $151/$110

• Ridgid 4 & 6Ah + “Free” Tool (Trim Router) Set

When we saw this Black Friday Only deal we couldn’t pass it up. Usually, a Ridgid 4Ah and 6Ah lithium battery set alone is $169. So add in a “free” 18V tool to pair with them and this literally feels like a steal. We opted to test out the 1/4 in. trim router and weren’t disappointed. Ridgid is an excellent entry-level Professional line and the trim router worked great on pine, cherry, oak, and poplar boards. It has a micro-adjustment dial, integrated LED light, 1 7/8 in. dust port, and soft start feature. Both batteries, the charger, and the router fit in the nice nylon carry bag as well. This is usually a $469 package so plan your black Friday shopping around it!

Purchase at Home Depot for $169

$200+ Gifts | Santa’s REALLY Nice List!

• Gearwrench Men’s Heated Canvas Jacket

We already covered the value of staying warm while working. But what if you aren’t working in a workshop? Then look no further. The Gearwrench Men’s heater canvas jacket is awesome! The Cavas material is both super comfortable and machine washable. The battery securely zips into the interior pocket. We loved its chape as the battery felt way less bulky than competitor offerings. The 3 carbon fiber heat zones worked great and kept us toasty in the crisp New England fall weather. The included 5Ah battery lasted 8 hrs between low and medium heat. And It’s also water resistant so even when we were working outside and got caught in a light rain, we weren’t soaked to the bone. Yep, this jacket is great and so is this TBB review on it!

Purchase at Gearwrench for $220

• Napier Outdoors Sportz Truck Tent

Does your gift target have a truck? Like the outdoors? Then grab this Napier Truck tent and let them combine them both. This tent mounts directly onto the bed of a standard pickup truck and provides an elevated campsite wherever you can drive. It features a sewed bottom for weather protection, front and rear windows (so you can get through the back window into your cab) and both a rainfly and awning. The Napier truck tent stores conveniently into a small bag so you can keep it in your truck for impromptu camping trips. It also boasts over 5′ 6″ of headroom so it doesn’t feel as compact as we thought it might. It’s not cheap at $299, but it’s a gift that is sure to make memories as you make your special person happy.

Purchase at Real Truck for $299

• Work Sharp WS3000 Tool Sharpener

We couldn’t help but include a second Work Sharp sharpened on our list. One that we’ve reviewed in detail on TBB. This one is a more elaborate, bench-mounted option. This Air-cooled, dry sharpening system eliminates the mess of a wet system and delivers higher material removal rates without affecting the steel temper. It can handle blades up to 2 in wide. Switching between bevel angles is simple and fast since it’s as simple as adjusting the port (vs. a detachable jig). It uses a tempered glass grinding wheel which is calibration free. There’s also no need to change between fixtures, grade wheels, or use multiple machines get a razor-sharp edge. If your worker uses straight blades like knives or chisels with any frequency, then this is a fantastic tool!

Purchase at Worksharp for $280

• Dometic Patrol 55 QT. Ice Chest

Long days in the hot sun will make a person thirsty, so why not think about a full featured cooler to keep your beverages of choice ice cold? The Dometic Patrol cooler is THAT cooler. It has a single-piece rotomolded design and extra thick PU insulation. The tough polymer materials are meant to withstand any rough & tumble environment. The large leak-proof drain makes cleaning your cooler easier and the Deep-freeze lid seal is absolutely airtight. The rope handles are heavy duty and sure to last. Lastly, the multi-use welded wire dock that can be used to hold a cup holder or a bottle opener. This is an investment as this cooler is the last one you’ll have to buy. And it looks pretty great too in whatever color you choose!

Purchase at Real Truck for $279

• Skilsaw 10 in. Portable Wormdrive Pro Jobsite Table Saw

We saved the biggest gift for last but for good reason. It’s worth spending some hard-earned cash on if you are looking for that one big gift. The Skilsaw SPT99-11 is a phenomenal portable table saw. We’ve used it on a variety of jobsites, and it has always performed exceptionally. It is a 15Amp, 10 in. fully featured portable saw and comes with Skilsaw’s amazing folding stand. The 16 in. wheels truly make this jobsite portable (and easy to load in the back of a work truck too). We have always loved Skilsaw’s worm drive design which is featured on this saw. This saw has a 30 1/2 in. rip cut and 3 1/4 in. depth of cut capacity and on-board storage for the rip fence, miter gauge, push stick, and blade guard/anti-kickback paws assembly. The rack-and-pinion fence design is incredibly smooth and solid. It also has a left-tilting blade that cants over to a 45-degree angle. The 2 in., downward-angled dust port fits most standard shop vacs and does a solid job taking care of the sawdust created. And the sliding outfeed support rack is a well thought out integrated feature. See more details on this saw in our TBB article. This is a great value and sure to make any tool lover’s Holiday the best ever!

Purchase at Lowes for $649

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

We know shopping for tool lovers is definitely a labor of love. It makes you ask “What do you get someone who seems to already have everything?” Just trust TBB’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide to give you some great suggestions whether you are looking for the perfect small gift or that one unbelievable, big gift. Happy Holidays from the Tool Box Buzz Team!

 TBB’s 2022 Holiday Gift Guide is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320

Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320

5/5

Manufacturer: Kreg Pocket Hole Jig
Model number: 320
Price: 39.00

What is a Pocket Hole?

The Kreg jig creates what’s called a pocket screw hole. It is an angled hole that is counter sunk, hiding the screw and creating a strong mechanical joint. On finished woodwork it’s KEY to hid your fasteners.

How it Works

The Pocket-Hole Jig 320, is two jigs in one. The two [or more] jigs snap together and use an included spacer to create seperate the screw placements.

The Pocket-Hole Jig 320 uses a simple, easy-to-understand setup process that gives you the versatility to fasten materials between ½” and 1½” thick.

Included in the Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320:

• 2 drill guides
• 1 removable spacer
• Material-thickness stops
• 1 square drive driver bit
• Drill bit and stop collar
• 1 universal clamp pad adapter
• 40 screws
• Storage case

Cool Kreg Jig Features

The drill bit has etched markings for drilling depths at ½”, ¾” and 1-½”. The drill bit and driver bases are hex fit, so it can fit into a quick release, like on my impact driver. There are also depth gauge stops on the Kreg jig itself, keeping it at the proper length from the edge of the board.

The included material thickness gauge is easy to set up and the clamp adapter and anti-slip base that clips onto a clamp and indexes into the jig. This base holds the jig precisely in position while you drill. Clamping has always been a bit of a pain in the field, and this adapter makes it much easier.

Overall Thoughts

If you have ever thought about trying out pocket screws, this is the kit to get. You will still need a clamp or two. This kit makes pocket holes in the field easier!

Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Kreg® Precision Router Lift

February 1, 2018

Kreg® is proud to introduce a great new way to take complete control of your table-mounted router: the Precision Router Lift.

Take complete control of your table-mounted router to make accurate, repeatable, and reliable bit setup adjustments—plus above-the-table bit changes—using the Kreg® Precision Router Lift (Item# PRS5000). It provides the high-quality results you need to confidently shape raw wood into refined project parts.

The Precision Router Lift helps you elevate your routing capabilities by providing precise control when making router setup changes or changing bits. The Precision Router Lift holds your router motor—and accepts 20+ popular models—in a high-performance carriage that you raise and lower from above the table. That means no more reaching under the table to make adjustments or change bits, plus vastly improved control over all adjustments, large or small.

The Precision Router Lift replaces the standard insert plate in a router table (the 3⁄8″ x 91⁄4″ x 113⁄4″ hard-anodized plate fits all Kreg router tables plus many popular brands). Every full revolution of the lift’s included adjustment crank moves the bit 1⁄16″, though much-finer adjustments are possible. A built-in micro-adjust scale can be zeroed out at any point to establish your baseline bit setup, so you can make exact bit height changes, and readjust to the exact same setting confidently every time for repeat cuts.

Kreg® Announces New Precision Router Lift is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Kreg Released New Cabinet Jigs

Kreg has release new cabinet hardware installation solutions that give DIYers easy to use jigs and professionals repeatable speed with accuracy.  These jigs provide adjustable mounting guides, durability, and accuracy with pro results. The three new cabinet hardware jigs will allow you to install knobs, pulls, concealed cabinet door hinges and drawer slides with ease.

Kreg’s New Cabinet Hardware Jig

Kreg’s new Cabinet Hardware Jig (Item# KHI-PULL) will make it easy to install new knobs and pulls.  The new jig will work on new custom built cabinets or upgrading your old cabinets.  This new jig is has features like adjustable hardened steel drill guides, moveable edge guide and built in measuring scales.  With these features you can repeat your settings to confirm every piece of hardware is spot on.

KHI-Pull Key Features:

• Durable – Ploycarbonate/ABS
• Drill guides – 2- 3/16” (5mm) guides, adjustable with locking nuts
• Drill guide material – Hardened steel
• Drill guide spacing – 2 ½” (64mm), 3” (76mm), 3 1/2” (89mm), 4” (101mm), 4 ½” ( 115mm), 5” (127mm), 64mm, 96mm, 128mm
• Edge guide to hole center spacing 1” – 5” (25mm – 127 mm)
• Measuring scales – Imperial & metric

In the box for KHI-PULL:

• 1 Jig base
• 1 Edge guide
• 2 Drill guides with knurled nuts
• 2 Non-slip pads
• 2 T- knobs & bolts
• 1 Owner’s manual with complete instructions

*Not include but required is a 3/16”  (5mm) drill bit.

Availability & Cost:

• Available on September 1, 2016
• US MRSP is $24.99
• CA MRSP is $32.99

Kreg’ s New Concealed Hinge Jig

Kreg has a new jig to make it easy to install 35mm concealed cabinet hinges.  Once the Concealed Hinge Jig  (item# KHI- HINGE) is set this jig will assist the DIYER or professional woodworker with speed & accurate drilling.  The Concealed Hinge Jig does come with high quality carbide tipped drill bit.  This jig will give you drill press accuracy without the press.

KHI – HINGE Features:

• Durable – Glass-filled nylon
• Hinge compatibility – 35mm Cup style concealed hinges
• Hinge offset – 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm
• Drill bit – four cutter carbide tipped with stop collar
• Hinge offset from door end – 2” (50mm) to unlimited

In the box for KHI – HINGE:

• 1 – Jig base with index cams
• 1 – Drill guide
• 1 – 35mm carbide tipped drill bit
• 1- Stop collar with hex wrench
• 1 – Owner’s manual with complete instructions

*Not included but required is a 1/16” (1.5mm) drill bit for hinge mounting screws.

Availability & Cost:

• Available on September 1, 2016
• US MSRP is $29.99
• CA MRSP is $39.99

Kreg’s New 35mm Concealed Hinge Bit

Kreg has just release their all new 35mm Concealed Hinge Bit (Item# KHI-BIT).  With this new bit you will be able to bore that perfect hole for concealed hinges.  Now this bit will be a direct replacement if you already have the Kreg Concealed Hinge Jig (Item# KHI- Hinge). The new high quality bit will be sold separately to allow you to cut clean holes while using your own technique.  Kreg’s new fasts cutting bit has four carbide cutters, two main cutters that bore a flat –bottomed hole and a pair of spur cutters that confirm clean hole edges free from tear out. Besides boring that perfect hole, the bit shank is sized to fit in the drill guide on the Concealed Hinge Jig.  If you like to use a collar stop, the shank has a shoulder that will position the collar stop perfectly (collar stop is included in the Concealed Hinge Jig, not available with bit only).  This is a high quality bit and works flawlessly with the Concealed Hinge Jig.  The new 35mm bit will work for you in your drill press and or any drill to give you that precision 35mm hole without the tear outs.

In the box for KHI – BIT:

• 1 – 35mm Concealed Hinge Bit In

Availability & Cost:

• Available on September 1, 2016
• US MSRP is $16.99
• CA MRSP is $21.99

Kreg’s New Drawer Slide Jig

Kreg’s once again has giving us simplicity with the new KHI- SLIDE jig. This jig will provide you easy to use, speed, accurate and an affordable solution. The slide jig can assist the DIYer with their kitchen upgrade or give the pro consistent & accuracy.  Here is the reason why this jig will greatly assist you while installing drawer brackets, The jig will hold the slides in place giving you your hands free for mounting.

 KHI – Slide Features:

• Durable – polycarbonate/ABS
• Cabinet compatibility – face- frame & frameless
• Slide length compatibility – 12” (30.5cm) & longer
• Slide type compatibility – ball bearing, epoxy coated, under mount
• Positioning sliders – 2 per bracket
• Multiple clamping positions
• Minimum cabinet depth – 14” (35.5cm)

In the box for KHI – SLIDE:

• 2 Brackets
• 4 Upper/Lower sliders-installed
• 1 Owner’s manual with complete instructions

Availability & Cost:

• Available on September 1, 2016
• US MSRP is $24.99
• CA MRSP is $32.99

Kreg’s New Hardware Installation Solutions is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Professional Pocket-Holes at Affordable Price

I’ve been using Kreg jigs for years because they work so well and allow me to build very strong furniture / joinery in a fraction of the time more traditional joints take. The announcement recently that Kreg Tool is introducing a professional grade pocket-hole machine at an affordable price is exciting for anyone that spends time in the wood shop. Learn more below from their recent press release.

The all new Foreman from Kreg Tool Company makes high-speed pocket-hole production available to everyone by offering the features of a professional-grade pocket-hole machine at a consumer-friendly price.

Kreg Tool Company, a leading manufacturer of tools and accessories for woodworkers and do-it-yourselfers, is proud to announce the launch of the Foreman Professional-Grade Pocket-Hole Machine (Item# DB210). This innovative new machine offers the features of Kreg professional-quality machines at a consumer-friendly price, which allows users to create perfect pocket holes twice as fast as using a standard pocket-hole jig—with half the effort.

The all-new Foreman offers features previously available only on Kreg industrial pocket-hole machines, such as a built-in 110-volt electric motor, single-handle control, and an adjustable fence system. At a price of only $399.99 (U.S.), though, the Foreman sells for less than half the price of its predecessor, making it easy to afford for a wide range of users including woodworkers, cabinet shops, contractors, and dedicated do-it-yourselfers.

This dramatic increase in speed and reduction in effort is possible thanks to the Foreman’s simple three-step operation:

The Foreman also offers unprecedented versatility. It works with materials from 1/2″- to 11/2″-thick, and it’s the first Kreg pocket-hole machine that can create all three types of Kreg pocket holes: Standard, Micro-Pocket, and HD (Heavy Duty). The Foreman comes with the Standard bit. The Micro and HD are available separately. Thanks to a quick-change chuck on the drill motor, swapping bits is easy.

Working with large boards and panels is easy with the Foreman, too, thanks to its large 14″ x 231/2″ cast-aluminum table. The table, along with a sturdy molded base, also keeps the weight of the Foreman down to about 20 pounds. That makes it perfect for use in the shop, around the house, and on the job site. Built-in storage keeps bits and accessories close at hand.
Combine all of these great features, and you have the all-new Kreg Foreman—the versatile, affordable solution for high-speed pocket-hole construction.

The Kreg Foreman will be available starting August 1, 2014 for $399.99 (U.S.).

Kreg Foreman Professional-Grade Pocket-Hole Machine Preview is a post from Tool Box Buzz