I recently had an opportunity to test out the Stout X-Band Saw and Cutting Station. Let me start out by say that the X-Band Saw is like no other saw on the market. How so? Well, you have the ability to use the saw as both a portable hand held band saw, and a small band saw station when using the available Cutting Station accessory.

When you first pull the X-Band out of its case you realize how small it is. Hopefully the photo of the X-Band in hand can give you an idea of its size. It was designed to be comfortable during one handed operation, and probably 90% or more of my testing was done using the saw with only one hand. Sorry left handers, this saw, like most tools was designed for right handed people in mind. When used in the right hand, the offset of the blade from the handle makes the tool pretty well balanced, with a good line of sight to your material.

Makita has added a new 3/8" crown stapler to its 18 volt LXT Lithium-Ion line. The new BST221 was designed for a wide rage of tasks, including furniture, upholstery, roofing, wrap, etc. The BST221 can drive 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 3/4", and 7/8" length staples (3/8" crown); and will also utilize Arrow® T50 type staples. Makita also says the stapler has enough power to drive staples flush into hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry. It weighs in at 5.1 pounds at just 9-7/8" long, and is available as a Kit (BST221) with 2 batteries, charger, safety glasses, belt clip, and a contractor bag for MSRP $469, and as Tool Only (BST221Z) MSRP $289. Of course the actual street price should be less.

This new stapler brings Makita's 18 volt LXT line to 35 tools, and they say more are on the way. So what tools could be next? My guess would be some cordless nail guns that would compete with the DeWalt line. What cordless tools do you want Makita to make?

Makita Tools
Makita LXT Tools - Amazon

Press Release - MARCH 25, 2009 La Mirada, CA - Makita U.S.A., Inc., manufacturer of high quality industrial power tools and accessories, is proud to announce the release of its new 10" Contractor Table Saw, model 2705. The new table saw is also available with a portable table saw stand (model 2705X1). The new saw combines a range of convenience and ease-of-use features with large capacity

"The new tool-less blade guard system is easy to adjust and remove," said Joe Soto, product manager - pneumatics and residential construction. "But in addition to the convenient features, the 2705 combines accuracy and a large cutting capacity with plenty of power to rip 4x material in a single pass. This versatile table saw is ideal for use at the jobsite or in the shop."

I dont know if this is a good thing or a bad thing but I have signed up for twitter. For some reason I have not been one to get all crazy about social websites, but I guess it is time to get on the bandwagon just like everyone else. Be sure to check me out if you are on twitter, and sign up if you are not. The address is not hard to remember https://twitter.com/ToolRank