The level has been around for hundreds of years, and its design has not changed much; until now. C.H. Hanson has taken a little bit of aviation technology and incorporated it into their new level design by replacing the standard vial with a 2-toned black and white self leveling ball.

"It might be an understatement to say there have been very few changes in the level category over the years," said Walt Sedlacek, C.H. Hanson vice president marketing and product development. "But now with the introduction of the Precision Ball Level, there is a tool that is innovating the category by showcasing multiple new features never seen before on a level."

The ball, which is floating in some type of liquid, will always remain level with the horizon. This new level design allows it to do a few things other levels can not. Using the markings around the ball, you can easily measure angles and pitches. This would come in handy anytime you need to set something at a specific angle. You can also use this feature to check and match existing angles and degrees. The thing I like the most, is the high visibility the ball design offers.

For more information and a video visit C.H. Hanson

Lights on a level might seem like a gimmicky idea to some, but if you have ever done any leveling in a room with poor lighting (like just about every jobsite I have been on), you know what a pain it can be to read the vials on your level. The problem is then amplified if you are leveling against a dark wall. To solve this problem, I have used the light from my cell phone to shine on the vials in some situations where extra light was needed.

Stanley FatMax has introduced a new line of lighted levels that feature built in lights for both vertical and horizontal vials, as well as lights along the length of the level. Not to be outdone by anyone, the levels also have built in rare earth magnets that make the leveling of metal door frames, and etc. a breeze. The FatMax Lighted Levels are available in 3 sizes: 16-inch, 24-inch, and 48-inch and run on 3 AA batteries.

I haven't been able to find prices or a place you can buy these except for the 16-inch at QVC, which also has a video of it in action.

Stanley Levels

The Work Sharp sharpening system has been a good option for anyone looking for a powered sharpening system on a budget. We usually don't think of $100 as a budget price, but when the competition is selling for $350 - $600, $100 is a great price.

One of the things the Work Sharp system was missing that the competition has, is the ability to sharpen knives. This is a problem no more with the addition the the Sharpening attachment for the WS2000. For around $35 the knife attachment uses abrasive belts up to 3600 grit to get your knives nice and sharp. They even say it will sharpen serrated knives. I hope we can see a knife attachment soon for the WS3000; we don't want to see anyone left out.

Work Sharp website
Work Sharp - Amazon

Are you still using a hammer to drive your nails? Well stop. Pneumatic nailers are easier and faster to use, and with advancements in technology, they are becoming more and more affordable for even the lightest users. Plus, your purple thumb will thank you.

Campbell Hausfeld is a huge name when it comes to air tools. They make just about everything air tool related and they have just announced 3 new air nailers. "After extensive consumer research, we set out to totally redesign the tools so they make it just as easy to get professional results for the first-time user as they do for the professional. These new nailers have numerous innovative features that do just that." said Chuck Shoemaker, director of new product development for Campbell Hausfeld.

• Framing Nailer (Model CHN70899) 34 degree clipped head nailer uses 2" to 3-1/2" nails from .113 - .131 in. diameter.
  
• Finish Nailer (Model CHN70699) 15-gauge 35 degree angled nailer uses 1" to 2-1/2" nails.
  
• Brad Nailer (Model CHN70299) 18-gauge straight nailer uses 5/8" to 2" nails.

The three new nails guns have a number of features usually only found in professional nail guns. Features such as anti-dry fire, which prevents the gun from firing when it is out of nails. A quick clear latch makes it easy to clear a nail jam if it occurs. Some of the brand new nail gun features include a laser dot that will help the user place the nail right where they want it. When installing millwork, it is always best to attach your trim to wooden studs, the 15 gauge nailer has a built in stud finder that eliminates the need for an extra stud finder.

For more information on the Campbell Hausfeld nailers visit www.chnailers.com.