Have you ever found yourself wanting more information while reading the packaging on a tool? Having the most information sure makes your choosing the right tool a lot easier, but there is only so much one can fit onto the packaging. The smaller the package, the less information we get.

Johnson Level is changing all if this with the addition of QR codes on their product packaging. QR codes are similar in function to barcodes and contain small bits of information. These codes can be scanned with most of the newer smart phones by simply installing a free QR reader application. When a QR code is scanned from the packaging of a Johnson product, the QR reader will read the code and direct you to the Johnson Level website, or to a specific webpage where more information can be found. The codes will be primarily used on Levels with special features and more technical products such as laser levels. In addition, Johnson will be using these codes in their magazine ads.

If you have a smart phone with a QR reader app and you come across a Johnson Level QR code, let me know what your experience is.

Johnson Level

VERNON HILLS, IL (October 2010) – Duo-Fast® Floor Fastening Systems (www.duo-fast.com), a leader in carpet and flooring installation tools for more than 40 years, is introducing Jet-Tac™ Tack Strip Epoxy, a quick-set epoxy that is ideal for tack strip installation on concrete or wood.

"We've done our homework and listened to what carpet installers are looking for in fastening tack strip to concrete," said Rita Bockrath, Marketing Manager for Duo-Fast Floor Fastening Systems. "Jet-Tac™ has a number of features never before seen in this industry that are sure to save carpet installers time and money."

Jet-Tac™ is the first two-part epoxy that comes in a uniquely designed 10 oz. (250 ml) cartridge with nozzle that can be used in a standard caulk gun.* The specially designed nozzle allows the two-part epoxy to be fully mixed by the time it reaches the end of the nozzle; thus, no mixing by hand, and no special tools are needed.

Unlike hot-melt glues, Jet-Tac™ sets up in 5 to 7 minutes, allowing enough time for the installer to apply the adhesive and position in place full strips for additional savings.

It also features a superior holding power formulation and a cure time of just two hours. Carpet installers will appreciate this because it allows power stretching on the tack strip after just two hours; they no longer have to come back much later in the day or the next day to complete the installation.

Due to its superior holding power formulation, installers can apply Jet-Tac™ in dabs rather than a continuous bead, meaning they need to use less than competitive adhesives to obtain superior results. In addition to using less Jet-Tac™ adhesive per installation, the cartridge can be opened and resealed without the epoxy setting up inside the cartridge. Users can leave the nozzle on the cartridge and replace it when ready to use again, or reseal the cartridge with the included nut and cap. Jet-Tac™ Nozzle Kits, with three replaceable nozzles per pack, are also available (part no. 650650).

Jet-Tac™ is very stable; it can withstand temperature ranges from -40 F to 160 F without changing composition. Once it is fully cured and set, water will not affect the adhesion strength of Jet-Tac™.

Jet-Tac™ is ideal for tack strip installation on concrete, but works well in many other applications, including cove moulding, carpet shims, transitions, ceramic, and metal bonding to concrete or wood.

Duo-Fast Jet-Tac™ Tack Strip Epoxy (part no. 650651) will be available in early 2011 at flooring products distributors throughout the U.S. For more information, go to www.duo-fast.com or call, toll free, 888-DUOFAST.

*Jet-Tac can be used with any standard caulk gun. However, Duo-Fast recommends using a caulk gun that features a four-fingered trigger.

Makita has been an industry leader when it comes to cordless lithium-ion tools, and were the first to come out with the tools we categorize as "Compact". These Compact tools run off of 18 volts of power, but use a smaller battery, and the tools themselves are smaller in size. Makita has announced that they have come out with a new 18-Volt Compact Drill/Driver that is even smaller in size then previous models, by 7/16", and weighs in at only 3.3 lbs.

Small and light is good, but according to the specs, the tool is still strong where it counts. The new model LXFD01CW is powered by a Makita-built 2-piece 4-pole motor that uses bigger and stronger front end ball bearings, and a heavy gauge wire for the windings. The new drill uses an all new planetary gear system and a redesigned all metal 2-speed transmission that delivers 480 in.lbs of maximum torque and 290 in.lbs of torque using the PTI testing standards. This is 30 more in.lbs then the previous BDF452HW.

Some other notable mentions are the always standard built-in LED task light, and an improved ergonomic design with soft rubberized grip. I should also mention that even though the drill is on the small end, it still features the larger 1/2-inch chuck, something that Makita could have easily dumped to cut down on cost.

The LXFD01CW will come in a kit that includes: two 18-volt compact lithium-ion batteries, 15-minute rapid charger, tool belt clip, and case.

Makita
[:cicn:] LXFD01CW - Amazon

I would have never expected to see accessories for something as simple as the Rockler Bench Cookies, but you can't go wrong when trying to make a product even more useful. The new Cones for Bench Cookie offer painters a way to utilize the non-slip abilities of the Bench Cookie, and apply this to there finishing process.

The cones will work with all Bench Cookie models and simply fit snugly over the body of the cookie. What the cone does is further lift your project off of your bench, which allows for greater access to the surfaces. Because the cones come to a small point, they offer minimal surface contact; this in turn, allows users to finish both sides of a project without having to wait for the finish to completely dry. The cones completely cover the tops of the cookies and also cover a bit of the sides, so they will be mostly protected from accidental drips of paint.

A pack of four costs $4.99. If you plan on doing any finishing with your Bench Cookies, you might as well pick some of these up.

[:cicn:] Cones For Bench Cookie - Rockler