Hilti PT-C Thermal Imaging Camera

Hilti PT-C THERMAL CAMERA

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Hilti
Model number: PT-C
Power source: 12 Volt

The applications of thermal imaging are vast and diverse. In the industrial sector, thermal imaging cameras are used to reveal hidden insights, and provide preventive maintenance. By detecting overheating in machinery or electrical circuits, these cameras can help prevent costly equipment failures and enhance safety.

Features

• High resolution
• Wide temperature range – thermal imaging from -20 °C up to 600 °C
• Drop resistant up to 1.5m
• IP rating IP54
• Transfer data via USB-C including voice notes, infrared picture, and optical picture to help you quickly document your work.

Specifications

• Temperature – range -4 °F – 1112 °F
• Measuring accuracy
from -20 °C to -10 °C (-4 °F to 14 °F): +/- 4° C, from -10 °C to 100 °C (14 °F to 212 °F): +/- 2° C, from 100 °C to 600 °C (212 °F to 1112 °F):  +/- 2 %
• Temperature resolution 0.1 °C
• Operating temperature range 14 – 122 °F
• Resolution, infrared sensor 256 x 192 pixels
• Field of view (FOV) 40° x 30°
• Battery lifetime 10 h
• Max. internal image memory 600
• IP protection class IP 54 (IEC 529)

Lack of insulation at intersection of partition wall and exterior wall

View where insulation deficiency is

Uses For the Hilti PT-C Thermal Camera

Detecting Heat Loss and Insulation Issues

Thermal imaging pinpoints areas of heat loss, poor insulation, and water leaks swiftly and accurately. This capability is invaluable for energy audits, building inspections, and ensuring structural integrity. It’s also useful in locating previously installed heat / AC piping and radiant heat lines or checking for leakage.

Circuit breakers

Dishwasher circuit – unit running

Electrical Wiring Maintenance

Identifying overheating in electrical systems is critical for preventing equipment failures and ensuring workplace safety. Thermal cameras help detect hot spots in electrical panels and wiring, enabling proactive maintenance.

Checking 3-Phase Equipment

By visualizing temperature imbalances in three-phase electrical equipment, thermal imaging facilitates early detection of potential malfunctions, enhancing equipment reliability and longevity.

Furnace manifold

Furnace zones running

Mechanical Installations

Thermal imaging aids in the preventive maintenance of mechanical systems by detecting heat generated by friction and stress. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and extends the lifespan of machinery.

Gas Detection

Infrared imaging serves as a valuable tool for detecting gas leaks in construction sites, enhancing safety protocols, and preventing potential hazards.

Basement window, heat loss

Basement window, brick foundation

Identifying Structural Defects

Thermal imaging helps detect defects in concrete structures, bridge decks, and paved surfaces, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance.

Pest Detection

Thermal cameras assist in locating pests within walls and structures, by locating nesting hot spot. This facilitates targeted pest control measures without the need for invasive inspections.

Controls

Operating the PT-C thermal Camera

We found that Hilti kept the PT-C controls intuitive. The manual provided was not helpful, but Hilti does have a video online that we watched to learn how to use the camera.

The Hilti PT-C Thermal Imaging Camera Controls include:

• Trigger – captures photo.
• Four navigation (arrow) buttons
• A centered menu buttons.
• A camera icon used to “save image.”
• Power button – lower right
• Gallery button – upper left.
• Image lock/saves photocopies in different view settings. Upper right.
• Date Port – included USB-A computer to a USB-C camera port.

Evaluating The Hilti PT-C Thermal Camera

When reviewing the Hilti PT-C thermal camera in the field, we considered several factors that we felt determine the camera’s suitability for specific applications and ensure optimal performance for diverse construction scenarios.

1. Resolution

• The Hilti infrared sensor provides 256 x 192 pixels and can hold up to 600 internal infrared or overlay images.
• The higher resolution the clearer, more detailed thermal image. A thermal imaging camera with a high resolution can detect small temperature differences, making it ideal for tasks that require a high level of accuracy.

2. Sensitivity

• The Hilti PT-C has a sensitivity of a t wide temperature range -20 °C up to 600 °C. covering a broad spectrum of construction applications.

3. Field of View (FOV)

• The Hilti PT-C has a 40° x 30° FOV. A wider FOV is beneficial for scanning large areas quickly, while a narrow FOV is better suited for focusing on small, specific areas.

4. Functionality

• There are several features that he Hilti PT-C has that make it useful to construction professionals such as; seamless data transfer via USB-C, including voice notes, infrared images, and optical pictures for comprehensive documentation.

5. Run-time and durability

• The Hilti PT-C has a run-time of 10-hours, a drop rating of 1.5 meters, and an IP rating of IP 54 (IEC 529).
• An IP54-rating carries a level of water and dust resistance, it still leaves the device susceptible to damage if faced with jets of water, or temporary or continuous immersion in water.

Locating heat loss and air leaks that contribute to ice dams

Using the PT-C Thermal Imaging Camera

We used the Hilti PT-C thermal camera to locate electric radiant heat coils under a tile floor. The coils showed clear and when used with an overlay photo we could easily identify locations in the room later.

We also used it on the interior and exterior of a residential house to determine heat loss at the houses rim joist and around doors and windows. Inside we checked external walls for indications of rodent and carpenter ant nests.

The camera easily located the hot vs cold spots allowing us to make insulation and energy efficiency decisions. Lastly, we had our electrician use the camera to check for hot spots in several electrical panels we had on a recent job site.

Thoughts on the Hilti PT-C Thermal Camera

In conclusion, we feel that the Hilti PT-C Thermal Camera empowers construction professionals with cutting-edge thermal imaging technology, enhancing precision, efficiency, and safety across construction projects. The camera sells for $2,059.00

Hilti’s PT-C thermal camera allows professionals the ability to perform inspections, and make an informed decisions on hidden conditions and then use that information to diagnose or plan for repairs and maintenance.

Hilti PT-C Thermal Camera Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit Review

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit

5/5

Manufacturer: ZipDoor
Price: 98.00
Power source: Dust Barrier System
Weight: 2.4 lbs

This new magnetic door version is designed to seal directly to the door trim or wall or on a plastic dust wall. Zipwall recommends using their double-sided tape which has a gentle adhesive on one side to protect door trim and wall paint, and a stronger adhesive to adhere to the magnetic panel in place.

How To Install the ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit

• Apply double sided tape to the door frame.
• Peel away the paper backing to expose the other side of the tape.
• Position the magnetic panel squarely over the doorway and align it so the bottom firmly touch’s the floor.
• Press panel into the tap., start at the top and then work down the sides.
• If you’re applying the magnetic door to a plastic dust barrier wall, first using a marker, layout and mark the doorway perimeter and then install duct tape around the doorway frame. Follow the exact same directions as we just mentioned. Then cut a slit in the plastic by opening the door. Then cut out the plastic just inside the duct tape,

Reusable Box | What’s In The Kit

What’s neat is that everything you need comes packed in a tough, reusable box. Inside, you’ll find one self-closing magnetic door panel, three rolls of 1″ × 24′ ZipWall double-sided tape (enough for four setups), and a plastic sheeting cutter. The door panel itself is made from high-tech fire-proof fabric.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit | Features

• Easy set up with the double-sided tape
• Reusable
• Covers doorways up to 46″ × 86.”
• Self-closing magnets, ensures your door stays shut.
• Stores in its own box and lives in my van.

Closing Thoughts

Learning how to control remodeling dust and keeping out of the non-remodeled portion of your client’s home is often more important than the quality of your work

The ZipWall system is the ideal dust control barrier and the self-closing feature on the magnets is a hands-free feature and a time saver when your carrying stuff. It cost $98 and if your careful it will last years.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit Video Review

At the end of the day this magnetic door provides remodeler, contractors, DIYers a flexible option that accommodates variously sized door openings and multiple applications. Its professional look to your clients, effective at controlling dust and pays dividends on your initial investment.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit is a post from Tool Box Buzz

RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum PCL732

RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum

3/5

Manufacturer: Ryobi
Model number: PCL732
Price: $60.00
Power source: 18 Volt
Weight: 4.25 lbs

When I review a cordless or corded vacuum, I’m looking to check off four boxes:

1. Does it have good suction? (CFM/Airflow, and water lift)
2. Does it have a comprehensive array of attachments?
3. Does it have a sturdy build quality?
4. Is it portable?

RYOBI Bucket Top Vacuum  | Overview

This new Ryobi cordless vacuum excels in handling both wet and dry cleanup tasks. It comes with a crevice nozzle but lacks a wider vacuuming head.

A notable feature is the convenient storage solution for all components, including the hose, on-board crevice tool, battery, and charger, fitting neatly inside the bucket. Noticeably missing was a 4″ or 6” floor sweep nozzle and a squeegee nozzle for water pick up.

While equipped with a blower port like many shop vacuums, its practical utility is questionable for most vacuum users.

The vacuum boasts a maximum airflow of 45 CFM. However, it’s important to note that the term “max” in marketing materials often suggests variable performance and may not be sustained throughout the battery charge. It’s rated to have 32 inches of water lift (IOW), a measure of static suction pressure at no net flow, indicating how many inches the vacuum will vertically lift 1 inch of water.

Weighing 4.25 lbs. and featuring a 4-foot by 1-1/4” diameter hose, this vacuum also includes a filter bag for dry vacuuming. The battery inserts on top of the unit alongside a rocker-style power switch. It has a decibel rating of 72.4 dB(A).

RYOBI Vacuum Specifications

• 4′ x 1-1/4″ hose
• Wet/dry capability
• Maximum airflow of 45 CFM
• 32 inches of water lift (IOW)
• Sound level as low as 72.4 dB(A)
• Weight: 4.25 lbs.
• Blower port
• Compatible with most 5-gallon buckets

Ryobi Vacuum | Run-time and Efficiency Testing

The vacuum was tested in a shop environment, primarily with sawdust and clean water. I will note that on two occasions I plugged the hose into the blower port and either blew dust or water all over the place. Ryobi should label the intake port better.

When paired with the 4.0 Ah battery, the vacuum can operate continuously for approximately 12 minutes.

I decided to test it’s water suction capability using clean water from a separate bucket and placing the hose directly into the water. Suction was great and I was able to suck up 3.62 gallons [bucket capacity] in 12 seconds [average time]

I repeatedly transferred the water back and forth until the vacuum lost suction, which occurred after 30 cycles. Impressively, it managed to remove a total of 108.60 gallons of water on a single 4.0 Ah battery charge. I was unable to test the vacuum with a wider squeegee sweeping nozzle.

For the sawdust and particulate pick up I used the crevice nozzle. The suction was decent, not great, and about what I expected from a $60 vacuum. I was unable to test the vac with a wider sweeping nozzle.

Ryobi Vacuum  | Suggested Improvements

While I love the innovative bucket top design, Ryobi could enhance it’s appeal to professionals and serious enthusiasts by improving durability, motor strength, airflow system.

I’d like to see some accessories offered such as a 4” sweeping and squeegee nozzle, and an efficiency filter capable of capturing particles down to 1 micron at 99% efficiency.

Lastly, offering a model that offers AC/DC functionality, with a 20-foot power cord would be amazing, especially when cleanup needs exceed the battery run-time.

I recognize that all the items I just described come with an associated increase in cost. While some may be hesitant to pay this premium, there are many who recognize and appreciate the value they bring.

Who knows, maybe HD will allow them to make a premium model?

Price

One of the most appealing aspects of this vacuum is its affordability, priced at $60 as a bare tool (PCL732B) and $119 for the kit, which includes the vacuum, a 4Ah battery, and a charger.

Conclusion

The bucket top design is a commendable idea, at the end of the day consumers looking for a cordless wet/dry vacuum still want.

• Good suction (CFM/Airflow, and water lift)
• A comprehensive array of attachments
• Sturdy build quality
• Portability

Ryobi comes real close to achieving this, but falls a little short. Despite its shortcomings, this vacuum sells for $60, and represents a commendable option for consumers seeking low cost, convenience and functionality.

With slight improvements in the areas I described, Ryobi holds the promise to emerge as the preferred choice for those seeking a versatile bucket top vacuum solution. Let’s hope Home Depot provides the platform for Ryobi to elevate to a premium vacuum and establish itself as a “new standard” in wet/dry vacuuming.

#HomeDepotPartner

#MyHomeDepot

RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum | Video Review

RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Top Cordless 1″ SDS Plus Rotary Hammer | Head-To-Head

In our head-to-head comparison, we focused on 1″ SDS-Plus rotary hammers with drop motors, catering to the largest group of SDS-Plus users. These drills are widely utilized by mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and building trades for tasks such as installing 3″ drop anchors, wedge anchors, screw anchors and chipping concrete.

Why Drop Motors?

The 1-inch SDS-Plus drop motor hammers are among the most popular drills on the market due to their compact size and versatility. They offer versatility and efficiency for various applications, making them a preferred choice for many users across different industries. Despite the rise in popularity of drop motor designs, some users still prefer the traditional D-handle style for specific applications such working in concrete forms or for ceiling and floor work.

SDS stands for Slotted Drive System or Slotted Drive Shaft, it was invented by Bosch in 1975. SDS and SDS-Plus are interchangeable, SDS-Plus is a newer standard featuring 4 splines for a more secure chuck fitment.

Our Objective

For us at Tool Box Buzz, our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions when selecting the best SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill.

By providing comprehensive reviews and insights into the performance, features, and usability of each rotary hammer, we hope to assist you in finding the perfect tool for your projects. Whether you prioritize compactness, power, versatility, or ergonomics, we’re here to help you make the right choice.

Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Lineup

Eleven manufacturers have submitted 15 contenders for the 1-inch SDS-Plus category, all designed for use on their 18-volt to 60-volt cordless platforms. Not every manufacturer labels their SDS-Plus drills as precisely 1 inch, so the range of testing spans from ⅞ inch to 1-⅛ inch.

BOSCH 18v Bulldog

Model – GBH18v-24C
Voltage – 18v
Size – 1”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-4,350
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.80
Weight – 8.7 Lbs
Price – $270.00

DEWALT XR

Model – DCH273
Voltage – 20V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,100
BPMs – 0-4,600
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.55
Weight – 7.1 Lbs
Price – $329.00

DEWALT Flexvolt

Model – DCH416
Voltage – 60V
Size – 1-¼”
RPMs – 540
BPMs – 0-4,200
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 4.5
Weight – 12.25 Lbs
Price – $499.00

FLEX

Model – FX15511A-Z
Voltage – 24V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-4,350
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 9.45 Lbs
Price – $299.00

HILTI Nuron

Model – TE 6-22 DRS
Voltage – 22V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1050
BPMs – 0-5100
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 8.1 Lbs
Price – $434.00

KOBALT

Model – KRH 124B-03
Voltage – 24V
Size – ⅞”
RPMs – 1,400
BPMs – 0-4,500
Weight – 6.15 Lbs
Price – $99.00

MAKITA 18v LXT

Model – XRH01Z

Voltage – 18VSize – 1”
RPMs – 950
BPMs – 0-4,700
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.7
Weight – 7.55 Lbs
Price – $379.00

MAKITA 36v LXT

Model – XRH05Z
Voltage – 36V (18v X 2)
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,250
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.2
Weight – 10.3 Lbs
Price – $519.00

MAKITA 40v XGT

Model – GRH01Z
Voltage – 40V
Size – 1-1/8”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-5000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.8
Weight – 9.44 Lbs
Price – $589.00

Metabo

Model – KH18LTXBL28Q

Voltage – 18v
Size – 1-⅛”
RPMs – 1,000
BPMs – 0-4,470
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 3.0
Weight – 9.8 Lbs
Price – $361

METABO HPT 18v

Model – DH1826DALQ4
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,050
BPMs – 0-3,950
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 8.05 Lbs
Price – $209.00

METABO HPT 36v

Model – DH3628DAQ4
Voltage – 36V
Size – 1-⅛”
RPMs – 950
BPMs – 0-4,300
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.3
Weight – 9.4 Lbs
Price – $279.00

MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL

Model – 2912-20
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,330
BPMs – 0-4,800
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.0
Weight – 9.25 Lbs
Price – $349.00

RIDGID

Model – R86712B
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,400
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.5
Weight – 8.05 Lbs
Price – $269.00

RYOBI

Model – P223
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,380
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.5
Weight – 7.45 Lbs
Price – $189.00

Head-To-Head Testing Criteria

Our team meticulously evaluated these cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammers, across five categories and ranked them.

1. Performance Test – Speed at drilling various size holes in concrete.
2. Efficiency Test – Run-time test of recommended battery normalized for Watt-Hour capacity.
3. Size and Weight – Size matters and weight can get cumbersome. We measured the dimensions and weight of each concrete drill as tested with batteries. [not factored in overall ranking]
4. On-Board Dust Collection – we tested and ranked features.
5. User Experience- Combination of features, ergonomics and subjective user evaluations.
   Additionally we included price, and best value charts for your consideration.

Silica Dust

The Tool Box Buzz Team recognizes the significant dangers that exposure to silica dust can pose to workers. While we always strive to use any and all personal protective equipment, there are times when we may omit certain PPE during testing. We want to remind anyone that uses concrete cutting and drilling tools to use proper protective equipment to prevent silica dust exposure.

Performance Evaluation | Drilling Test

This test evaluated the speed in which the tools could drill 3-inch deep holes into concrete with 4 different bit sizes. The drilling substrate used was 3,500 psi concrete blocks, 12” x 24” x 4.5″ deep. These concrete blocks had cured for 6-months.

Performance Test Procedure

Drill Sizes Evaluated: ¼”, ⅜”, ½”, and 1″ SDS-Plus rotary drill bits.

1. Five holes drilled to a depth of 3” using a depth rod and blue tape for accuracy.
2. Each hole was timed, and an average recorded.
3. All drills equipped with new Milwaukee SDS-Plus rotary drill bits.
4. Operators instructed to maintain consistent pressure and let the drill do the work.
5. Dust extractors were not utilized.
6. Technique emphasized to ensure fair comparison.

Performance Test Winner – Milwaukee

Milwaukee dominated three out of the four speed tests, earning an impressive overall score of 5. DEWALT’S 60V FlexVolt secured second place with an overall score of 15, excelling particularly with the 1-inch bit test. Hilti and Ridgid claimed third place with an overall score of 18. Metabo followed with a score of 21. The Metabo was not a remarkable tool, but was a consistent “power-house performer.”

Individual Test Results | Top 3

¼” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.19 seconds
• DEWALT 60V: 4.63 seconds
• Hilti: 5.49 seconds

⅜” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.93 seconds
• Ridgid: 5.24 seconds
• DEWALT 20: 5.88 seconds

½” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.36 seconds
• Ridgid: 5.43 seconds
• Hilti: 5.57 seconds

1” Rotary Bit Results

• DEWALT 60V: 14.52 seconds
• Milwaukee: 21.63 seconds
• Metabo: 24.04 seconds

Note on DEWALT FlexVolt 60V Rotary Hammer

The DEWALT Flexvolt was an extremely powerful and heavy tool allowing it to shine in the 1-inch drill bit test and subsequent chipping evaluation.

Efficiency Evaluation | Normalized Run-time

Although run-time becomes less critical with sufficient battery capacity, we acknowledge it’s importance in specific scenarios such as with commercial users, installing numerous drop anchors in a day. With so many tools, battery voltages and sizes, we normalized run-time and investigated the efficiency of the tools energy available. Obviously some battery packs contain much more potential energy so it’s important to try and compare them based on the “size of the fuel tank”.

Efficiency Testing Procedure

1. Vacuums removed for this test.
2. All tools equipped with fresh batteries.
3. 1/2″ Milwaukee drill bits drilled to 3″ depth.
4. Operators instructed to maintain consistent pressure and let the drill do the work.
5. The total number of drilled holes were counted and scored.

Holes Drilled Per Watt-Hour – Winner Makita 18V

The Makita 18V drill claimed the top spot, surprising us all with it’s performance. This drill managed to complete 66.5 holes with a single 4 Ah battery with a 0.92 holes drilled per watt-hour.

Interestingly, the Makita 36-volt model, despite having twice the available watt-hours, only completed 82 holes, representing just a 23% increase in hole count which equated to only drilling 0.57 holes per watt-hour. This unique comparison between the two Makita drills highlights a design prioritization of efficiency vs power.

The Metabo 18 volt came in second place with 0.85 holes per watt-hour. Third place went to the DEWALT 20 volt with 0.82 holes per watt-hour.

Size and Weight – Not Used In Final Rankings

In the realm of SDS-Plus rotary hammers, size matters to some users. We measured the dimensions and weight of each drill, as tested (with Batteries / handle), and ranked them accordingly.

We felt the two most important factors for these drills were the weight and head length. Having a lightweight tool coupled with a compact size can be an important factor for some users. While we didn’t include this ranking in the final scoring we did account for the size and weight in our user experience rankings below. It’s interesting to see that most of the smaller / lighter tools didn’t perform as well as the heavier tools in the speed testing. Likely this is due to the size of the gear boxes, motors and housings.

In this category, the Kobalt drill boasted the shortest and lightest stature among all drills tested, clinching the top spot. Following closely in second place was the DEWALT 20V, which also showcased a compact form factor and lightweight design. The Ryobi drill secured third place in this ranking.

On-Board Dust Extractor Evaluation

On-board dust extractors are designed to be used as a system. Eight of these tools were sent with compatible on-board dust extractors to evaluate.

Dust Extractor Procedure

We tested the on-board dust extractors, ranking eight criteria:

1. Capacity – We drilled ½” x 3” holes until we saw dust “ant-hills” form around the hole. At that point we consider the capacity of the dust extractor full.
2. Visual inspection of capacity.
3. Filter cleaning – Self cleaning or manual function
4. Filter replacement – ease of removal.
5. Depth of hole with attachment.
6. Depth guide – ease of adjustment.
7. Replaceable head.
8. Weight.

On-Board Dust Extractor – Winner Hilti

The Hilti came in first place in the on-board dust extractor category. It was feature rich with its replaceable head, depth guide, and filter cleaning options. Despite clinching the top position, the team collectively noted that the dust canister could be improved by being translucent for better visibility, and the filter could be easier to detach from the canister.

In terms of “capacity” performance, the Hilti canister maintained dust extraction efficiency for 14 holes. Milwaukee drilled 10.5 holes, and Makita 40V managed 15 holes.  Surprisingly, the Metabo HPT drilled 21.5 holes, and the DEWALT 20V drilled 22 holes, but didn’t excel  in other feature comparisons.

User Experience – [Tie] Winner Hilti and Makita 40V

User experience (UX) encompasses the overall satisfaction and ease of use that a tool provides to its users. In this category, our team of Pro users provided subjective rankings for the user experience while handling these rotary hammers. This ranking was based on various factors experienced, including grip, balance, vibration, line of sight, ease of use, fatigue factor, and overall comfort.

The team identified four drills as top performers during testing. The Hilti and Makita were tied for first place, closely followed by a tie between the DEWALT 20V and Milwaukee 18V. All four of these tools exhibited commendable performance in our testing and were noted for their user experience.

Rotational Force | Bind Test – Not Ranked

When a drill binds, it has the potential to violently spin the tool around potentially injuring the user.
To assess the performance in binding situations, we conducted a subjective test by drilling a 1-inch diameter, 8-inch, deep hole in concrete and side load force.

3 Types of Safety Shut-Offs in Rotary Hammers

1. Accelerometer – An electronic component integrated into the tool that detects sudden rotation and initiates an automatic shutdown.
2. Mechanical – Utilizes a straightforward mechanical clutch mechanism whereby the tool continues to run, but the bit stops spinning when the clutch is engaged.
3. Electronic Overload – An electronic overload function is activated either before the mechanical clutch or during specific binding scenarios. This electronic overload serves to safeguard the electronics, motor, and battery, while also acting as a safety feature in certain situations.

Rotational Force Findings

During our testing, all of these tools effectively shut off when the tool was bound up and the user had a firm grip on both the tool and the auxiliary handle.

Standout tools featured all three safety mechanisms, predominantly found in higher-end models such as those from Bosch, Hilti, Makita (40-volt) and Milwaukee. These tools successfully incorporated all three mechanisms that we were able to activate during field testing.

Chipping Test – Winner DEWALT 60V

Our chipping testing methodology was primarily subjective in nature. We employed our drill testing blocks to conduct the chipping tests.

TBB Crew users utilized the rotary hammers to break up the test blocks, after which they provided feedback via a form detailing their chipping experience.

The consensus from our testing suggests that there’s a “secret sauce” combination of impact energy and beats per minute (BPM) that yields optimal chipping power. This mix of factors seems to be instrumental in achieving productive chipping results.

The DEWALT 60V was the largest and heaviest tool in the group and with 4.5 FT-LBS of energy, it’s no surprise that it excelled at chipping, taking first place

The DEWALT Flexvolt was a “jack hammer disguised as a drill  ~ TBB Crew Wes Bartosik

The Makita 40V came in second. It has tons of power and minimal vibrations felt, due to its well throughout decoupling. The Milwaukee 18V came in third place. It delivers an incredible amount of energy on impact and was very controllable while cutting scribe lines.

SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Price – Not Included In Final Scoring

Most manufacturers offer these rotary hammers in kit form, bundling the tool with a battery optimized for performance while maintaining a manageable weight. Achieving the best user experience hinges on finding the right balance between weight, balance, and power to accomplish tasks efficiently.

For your reference, we have listed bare tool pricing below, although this wasn’t factored into our final scoring. As an illustration of the cost range, the Kobalt is available as a bare tool for $99.00, while the Makita 40-volt model is priced at $589.00. Please refer to the attached chart for further details.

Best Cordless 1-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Winner Milwaukee 18V

While impact energy undoubtedly influences a tool’s performance, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s not the sole determinant of effectiveness. Other factors, such as RPM and BPM, also play significant roles in achieving the desired outcome for the user. Harmonizing impact energy, RPM, and BPM is essential to optimize the tool’s overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Decisions should be based on considerations related to ergonomics, safety, and mechanical performance. Balancing these aspects ensures that the tool not only performs well but also prioritizes the safety and user experience of the user.

It’s noteworthy that when ranking our categories, we assigned double weight to performance scores, considering it the most valuable category.

Milwaukee claimed the top spot in performance, secured second place in dust extraction, and ranked third in both user experience (UX) and chipping. Its overall performance stood out as the clear winner.

Second Place honors go to the Makita 40V.  This Makita excelled in UX, chipping and dust extraction. The Makita 40V was a favorite among the crew, tying with Hilti for the top spot in UX.

Hilti rounded out the podium in 3rd place.  The Hili was also heavily sought after by the crew and ranking first in the UX category, boasting the best dust extraction, and coming in eighth in performance testing and fourth in chipping.

Tied for fourth place was Metabo and DEWALT 60V. Metabo stood out with it’s second place in efficiency and scored well in both user experience and chipping. The DEWALT 60V was impressive in the chipping tests and performance.

Best Value 1″  SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Winner Ridgid

This category winner often strikes a chord with users as it showcases an SDS-Plus drill that performs admirably while being more budget-friendly. In many respects, it’s a category of significant importance, sometimes overshadowing the top-ranked contender, crowned king of our 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Head-to-Head Test.

The Ridgid 18V, priced at $269 as a bare tool, claimed victory in this category. Despite landing in seventh place overall, it delivered commendable performance, securing a solid fifth place rank in our performance testing. We often refer to Ridgid as the “hidden gem” of the tool industry.

Best 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Closing Comments

1″ SDS-Plus rotary hammers are essential tools for contractors seeking efficient, versatile, and reliable solutions for drilling and hammering tasks in concrete and masonry materials.

We often receive inquiries about our final rankings and understand that there are numerous ways to compare tools.

Our primary goal during testing is to attain repeatable and consistent results. We make sure to share all the data from our tests so that users can re-rank the tools according to their preferences. If there’s a specific aspect you don’t find relevant, feel free to remove it from the matrix above and re-evaluate the rankings accordingly.

We hope you find this Head-To-Head comparison useful when considering the purchase of a 1″ cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammer. Please take a moment to explore our other Head-to-Head tests at ToolBoxBuzz.com.

Thanks, “the TBBCrew.”

Best 1-inch SDS-PLUS Rotary Hammer Video Review

Best Cordless 1 Inch SDS Plus Rotary Hammer – 2024 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

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

~ This article was written by apprentice carpenter Luke Thacker – at Concord Carpenter LLC

Diamondback “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System

Manufacturer: Diamondback
Model number: “The Seven” Deluxe Vest
Price: 579.00

As an apprentice, my mentors are always pushing efficiency. Efficiency is key in our line of work, and finding tools that not only make the job easier but also reduce strain on our bodies is paramount. So I am always looking for the best, most efficient ways to make my job easier, allowing me to produce a better product, while putting less stress on my body.

I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to test out Diamondback’s “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System. This system combines the 701 vest, two pouches called the MULE and the SxS (side by side), a hammer holster, and a flat bar holster.

Key Features of “the Seven” Tool Vest Include:

• Lightweight nylon mesh
• Integrated Tightening-Adjustable Belt
• Shock-absorbing elastic back
• 6 Front Attachment Points
• 6 Rib/Hip Tightening Adjustment Straps
• Hook & Loop Adjustable Shoulder Straps
• Storage Loop
• Lumbar/Shoulder Support Pads

First Impressions

Initially, I didn’t expect much more from the vest than additional pockets—which, of course, are always helpful. However, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s not often you hear a contractor in their prime complaining about back and hip issues. Yet, with traditional waist belts, I could feel the strain on my body after a long day’s work. Bruises on the hips and lower back pain were all too familiar. But after just one day wearing “The Seven” vest, the weight distribution alone made a noticeable difference, relieving the usual discomfort.

Other Benefits of “The Seven” Vest:

• More pockets
• Hammer and catspaw/flat bar holsters
• Speed square slot
• Plenty of places to hook tools

These features set “The Seven” vest apart from traditional tool belts. No longer do I have to cram multiple tools into one pouch due to lack of space. With “The Seven” vest, there’s ample room for all my tools and then some. The addition of holsters for the hammer and catspaw/flat bars was a game-changer. No more hammer smacking against my legs or tools constantly falling out of my bag. The speed square slot also eliminates the hassle of juggling it with other tools. And with numerous spots to hang tools, the vest offers unmatched convenience on the job

Setting up “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System

Setup and Sizing Setting up my tools in “The Seven” vest was a breeze, taking only 15 minutes. The vest’s sizing, with options for M/L and XL, accommodates a wide range of body types.

The sizing of the 701 vest:

The vest is the carry system for the tool bags and accessories, sizing is important as you want this vest to be able to zip over summer and winter clothing.

• The M/L Vest fits waist, torso, and chest sizes 32-44.
• XL fits waist, torso, and chest sizes 42-52.

Despite initial concerns about the waist size (I’m a 30”), the fit with work clothing was perfect. Plus, the vest’s comfortable design ensures no itching or discomfort, even during long hours on the job.

Areas for Improvement

My boss, [Rob]  always asks the question, “how can we improve this process? How can we be better?” In reality, “The Seven” vest leaves little room for improvement, though there are a couple of minor details worth noting:

• Pouches on the front of the vest can sometimes drop bits, sharpies, pencils, and more.
• Adjustable straps may loosen more often than desired.

With the straps, I find myself occasionally re-tightening them to keep them snug, this is really not a deal breaker, but it is a maintenance issue to keep the vest tight to my body. Both Rob [my boss] and Dan [lead carpenter] on our team have also noticed this issue on these vests. Maybe Diamondback can add in something to restrict slippage.

Pricing and Availability

The retail price for “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System is $579 on Diamondback’s website. While it’s a significant investment, the durability and functionality of this system make it well worth the cost for any serious contractor.

When spread over a year, this investment averages out to just $11 per week. If you’re eyeing this tool vest with envy but find the price daunting, consider making small adjustments to your daily expenses. For instance, bringing lunch from home or opting for a travel mug instead of buying coffee can free up funds to afford the vest. Take control of your future; stop letting envy hold you back.

Final Thoughts

It’s only been a few weeks since I started using “The Seven” vest, but I can’t see myself going back to traditional tool belts. Diamondback has truly outdone themselves with this product. The quality and materials ensure a superior product, unmatched by any other brand. As a contractor, having an advanced tool belt like this not only improves performance but also positively impacts my body, promising greater longevity in the trade.

Thank you for reading my first-ever review! I’m excited to continue supporting the advancement of the trades and the #KeepCraftAlive movement.

~Luke Thacker, Apprentice Carpenter on Concord Carpenter Team

Diamondback “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Bosch Unveils 30 Cutting-Edge Cordless Tools Tailored for Construction Pros at World of Concrete 2024

We had the pleasure of attending the 2024 World of Concrete trade show, where Bosch stole the spotlight with its impressive lineup of 30 new cordless tools meticulously designed to meet the demanding requirements of our industry.

While many of these tools are specifically optimized for concrete applications, Bosch’s collection offers versatility for a wide range of tasks.

Bosch 18V 1⁄2” Brushless Connected-Ready Drill/Driver (GSR18V-800C)

Noteworthy tools like the 18V Brushless Drill/Driver and Hammer Drill/Driver build upon Bosch’s already solid impact line and boast impressive features such as high torque and kickback control.

• Brushless motor with 565 in.-lbs. max torque
• Kickback control for reduced rotational torque risk.
• Integrated LED work light for enhanced visibility

Bosch 18V 1⁄2” Brushless Connected-Ready Hammer Drill/Driver (GSB-800C)

• Brushless motor delivering 565 in.-lbs. max torque.
• Kickback Control for minimized torque reaction.
• Rapid Mode Selector for quick mode shifts

Bosch Floor Removal Cart (GHT130)

The Bosch Floor Removal Cart displayed robustness and efficiency in supporting jackhammer operations when demoing tile and mortar.

• Robust cart design supporting jackhammer weight.
• Ergonomic angle adjustment for optimal positioning
• Star knob mounting system for efficient hammer installation and removal.

Bosch 12V Max Connected Thermal Camera (GTC600C)

• High image definition storing up to 500 thermal images.
• Wide measuring ranges from -4°F to 1112°F
• Intuitive user interface with smart voice notes functionality

Bosch 12V Max Connected 5 Ft. Handheld Inspection Camera (GIC4-23C)

The 12V Max Connected Thermal Camera and Handheld Inspection Cameras offered advanced imaging capabilities with user-friendly interfaces, emphasizing both precision and practicality on the job.

• Enhanced 4 in. display capturing color images.
• Intuitive design for a user-friendly experience
• Jobsite protection with rubber housing and IP67/IP54 ratings

Bosch 12V Max 11 Ft. Handheld Inspection Camera (GIC5-27C)

• High resolution 5 in. display for color images and video capability
• Jobsite protection with rubber housing and IP67/IP54 ratings

Bosch 5” Grinder Tuck Pointing Guide

The Grinder Tuck Pointing Guide proved to be a standout, impressively collecting mortar dust, and minimizing user-induced errors.

• Impressive mortar dust collection capabilities
• Minimal dust observed, mostly attributed to user error.

Bosch 10” Table Saw and Stand

The 10” Table Saw and Stand received a resounding “wow” from me, for its gravity rise design, simplicity, and game-changing ability to cut 4×4 in a single pass. Its super easy to deploy and store.

• Gravity rises stand.
• Simple, intuitive, and easy to deploy.
• A game-changer for cutting 4×4 in a single pass.

Bosch 18 Volt Concrete Nailer

The 18 Volt Concrete Nailer emerged as a time-saving marvel, significantly reducing the workload for tasks like installing metal studs or EMT conduit clamps. This tool shaves off an hour from your daily workload.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bosch’s unveiling of 30 cutting-edge cordless tools at the World of Concrete 2024 demonstrated a commitment to innovation and functionality tailored for construction professionals.

In essence, Bosch’s showcase at the World of Concrete 2024 not only met but exceeded the expectations of construction professionals, offering a comprehensive array of tools that combine cutting-edge technology with practical functionality, ultimately enhancing efficiency and productivity on the job site.

Bosch New Tools 2024 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee PACKOUT Conversion | Adhesive and Battery Warming Box

Introducing the “Antarctica-Proof PACKOUT Warmer,” a revolutionary collaboration with Milwaukee Tool Corp. This cutting-edge warming box is specifically designed to defy freezing temperatures, ensuring optimal functionality for both batteries and cordless tools in the harshest job site conditions.

The PACKOUT Warmer maintains a consistently warm environment, safeguarding your batteries and allowing cordless tools to operate at full capacity, even in extreme cold. Say goodbye to productivity loss due to frigid temperatures – our warming box keeps your tools performing as if they were in a cozy workshop, regardless of the icy surroundings.

And before you get too excited, here’s a little reality check: While this concept might warm your heart, Milwaukee Tool Corp. did NOT actually collaborate on this project. In fact, they probably wouldn’t endorse or approve of this modification. But hey, we can dream of a tool paradise in Antarctica, right?

Why Make A Warming Box

Originating from the need to prevent the freezing of batteries, caulking, and glue during New England winters, this warming box is strategically installed in my van and regularly plugged in overnight.

This article will focus on my warming box, which features a silicone oil pan heating pad within a modified PACKOUT box wrapped with 1” rigid insulation.  I chose to use my colossal track saw PACKOUT box because, let’s face it, that track saw box was WAY too big for just the track saw, so why not make it into something more functional.

A warming box is basically an insulated box with a heat source to keep items warm. A few years back, while working on a large window job, I used a cheap Styrofoam cooler and a light bulb to keep our caulking flowing. It worked great but was not the best permanent solution.

Cold Temperatures and Batteries

A battery’s job is to store and release energy. Cold temperatures increase the internal resistance of a battery, lowering its capacity. When stored in cold temperatures, batteries can’t release as much energy or retain a charge, necessitating frequent winter charging.

Considering that lithium-ion deep cycle batteries have a lifespan limited to 3,000 to 5,000 cycles, you may want to keep your batteries warm, and protect your investment.

Optimal Battery Storage

Manufacturers recommend storing batteries in a cool, dry environment (50°F to 77°F) to prevent deep discharges and recommend avoiding charging in extremely cold conditions, as this can lead to lithium plating on the battery anode, which is detrimental to the battery’s health.

My Milwaukee lithium-ion battery packs are engineered for sub-freezing temperatures, but when the battery pack is too cold, it needs to warm up before normal use. Milwaukee recommends putting the battery on a tool and using the tool in a light application. It may “buzz” for a short time until it warms up. When the buzzing stops, use the tool normally.

Building the PACKOUT Warming Box

My warming box is powered by a 4” x 5” silicone oil pan heating pad and is seamlessly integrated into the van’s power strip, consistently plugged in nightly from 4 pm to 7 am.

The heating pad comes with a 68” power cord length and operates at a temperature range: 140~158°F. After installing 1” ridged insulation on all sides of the PACKOUT box and the lid top, I used the self-adhering feature on the heating pad to mount it onto a ceramic tile, which was foil-taped to the bottom of the PACKOUT box. The tile was used to separate the heating pad from the insulation.

I used two L-shaped mending plates as a stand-off mechanism to create space between the heating element and box contents.

A hole was drilled in the bottom side of the box for the power cord, and I sealed the hole with foil tape. I then fabricated a vertical plywood mounting plate with Stealth mount battery clips to hold my batteries. In between the battery clips, I store glue and caulking tubes.

Testing the Box Temperatures

After deploying the Packout warming box in my van overnight I tested it with an infrared temp-gun. Outside temperature was 37 degrees and the inside of the warming box was a consistent 60. When I shot the infrared dot to the bottom of the box, I got a 71-degrees at the metal plate.

I tested the box 5 more times over the next several weeks and received consistent results. The contents of the box stayed at 60 degrees.

Final Thoughts

For years, I would bring my caulking in and out or leave it on my dashboard heater and leave the truck running. In conclusion, I needed a permanent, reliable solution for cold weather challenges. While acknowledging various job site hacks, this PACKOUT warming box provides me with a consistent, reliable approach to combat the adverse effects of freezing temperatures.

I hope this helps you out as well!

Milwaukee PACKOUT Warming Box is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Guardian  C7 Cable Climbing System

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“We designed the System and C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve with the end user as our primary focus. We wanted workers to not only maintain a safe climbing experience but also do so with ease. When used together, the Cable Climbing Sleeve and System makes climbing easier and quicker for a better all-around experience.”

The C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System are qualified to ANSI Z359.16 and OSHA 1910.26 & 1926.1053 when used together and are available in the U.S. and any region following OSHA/ANSI regulatory standards. The Cable Climbing System is available in galvanized steel utilizing a 3/8”, 1×7 strand, galvanized steel solid core cable.

To learn more about the C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System, click here.

Guardian C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System is a post from Tool Box Buzz

KEEN Utility Arvada Work Sneaker

Keen Utility Arvada Work Sneaker

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Keen Utility
Model number: 1027656
Price: 120.00
Weight: 19.08oz / 541g

Keen uses a proprietary mid-sole compression-resisting technology the call KEEN.ReGEN. Keen typically uses this technology on their more athletic style footwear [i.e., Red Hook, Pittsburgh Energy, Arvada] and they claim it returns up to 50% energy with every step.

Wearing the Arvada

While I can’t attest to returning 50% energy, I can tell you that the Arvada has a sneaker-like mesh upper that is breathable and don’t make my feet sweat. Additionally, the sneaker is so comfortable that I forget that it has a carbon-fiber safety toes, and they are lighter than my low-rise leather work shoe with a steel toe.

Another feature I like on the Arvada is the rubber outsole. Keen uses am EH-rated oil-and-slip-resistant rubber outsole.
The Arvada is the first pair of Keen Utility work shoes that I’ve worn that did not seem to need to be “broken in.” They were comfortable day1 and have amazing arch support. For me arch support is important and after a 10-hour day standing, kneeling, and climbing step ladders my arches did not ache at the end of the day.

After wearing the Arvada to work for three weeks, Im impressed and would categorize the Arvada as a light duty construction show. If I were framing or outside in bad elements I’d choose a heavier duty work boot. Having a super comfortable workshoe for interior job site work, and light duty exterior work has been a game changer for me.

Features

• Left and right asymmetrical, non-metallic carbon-fiber toes offer unobtrusive fit and are 15% lighter than steel.
• Reflective webbing for additional safety and visibility
• Nylon shank for midfoot support
• Electrical hazard (EH) or Electric Shock Resistant (ESR) footwear provides a secondary source of protection in case accidentally encountering live electrical circuits.
• Abrasion-resistant synthetic upper
• Mesh liner provides breathability to help keep feet cool in warm environments.
• Removable metatomical PU footbed
• KEEN.ReGEN: A lightweight, compression-resisting midsole providing 50% more energy return than standard EVA foam.
• Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole

Safety Information

• Meets ASTM F3445-21 and F2413-18 M I/75 C/75 EH standards.
• Meets ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip testing standards.
• Meets ASTM SATRA TM31 material abrasion testing standards.
• Outsole and midsole meet ASTM D471-06 903# oil and isooctane chemical resistance standards.

Price and Where T0 Buy

The Keen Utility Arvada work sneaker comes in four color schemes, and sells online here, Keen Utility Arvada, for approximately $120.

KEEN Utility Arvada Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz