In the past few years we have seen great advancements in the area of ultra compact cordless tools. Now, Dewalt is trying their hand, and pushing the market in the direction of compact routers with features you would only expect in a full size router.

So what sets the new DeWalt routers apart from compact (trim) routers of the past? Well, just about everything. Dewalt has taken all the features you would want in a router, sized them down, and put them in a more compact body. The 1-1/4 peak HP motor offers more power then the other trim routers on the market today, allowing users to do more load intensive tasks. It is not up to full-sized router par, but we wouldn't expect it to be. A variable speed control also puts it in a class with the big boys, as most routers in its class only offer a single speed. A variable speed control lets you customize your speed to fit the type of bit you are using and the type of material you are cutting.

Other features that should make your routing experience even better include: dual LED lights that provide illumination for your work surface, an extended 1/4-inch router collet that provides greater holding strength and less vibration. My favorite feature has to be the 12-point spindle lock, that eliminates the need for using two wrenches for changing or adjusting bits.

You can pick up the new DeWalt compact router in the form of a 4 lb fixed base unit, or a 6 lb plunge & fixed base unit. The fixed base unit (DWP611) is expected to retail for approximately $139.00, and the fixed/plunge base combination kit (DW611PK) is expected to retail for approximately $199.00. Look for these in stores starting October 2010

DeWalt - [:cicn:] DeWalt Tools - Amazon

We all love music, and a great soundtrack can really set the mood of the day, so it is not surprising to learn that Porter-Cable has decided to come out with cordless radio of their own. Not that everybody uses them, but cordless radios are now pretty much a standard in any cordless line. The new PC18JR radio runs off of both 18-volt NiCd and Lithium-ion PC batteries for when you want to go free range. When you need your batteries for actual work, the radio saves the day with a 120-volt power cord. The PC18JR even has two 120-volt AC outlets, so you don't have to worry about taking up one of your precious outlets. Sorry, the radio will not charger your batteries.

The radio keeps you digitally tuned in with 10 FM and 10 AM presets for your Favs, and good old Seek as a stand by. The backlit display keeps all your station information illuminated and a built-in clock will help prevent you from accidentally working overtime. For those of you that accept advancements in technology, a 3.5mm aux port will allow you to hook up your mp3 player or sat radio. The PC18JR wouldn't be any good if it couldn't withstand typical jobsite abuse. Thus is the reason behind a full roll cage and the use of premium weather resistant speakers.

IDEAL Acquires Premier Tool Manufacturer SK Hand Tools

-- IDEAL expands its commitment to "Made In America" mission by keeping manufacturing of iconic tool brand in the United States --

08.23.2010 – SYCAMORE, IL -- IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase certain assets of SK Hand Tools Corporation, one of America's leading manufacturers of tools for the professional mechanic.

Doug Spitler, Vice President and General Manager of IDEAL's Retail and Industrial Divisions, has been named to run the new company which will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDEAL: "Acquiring SK Hand Tools will expand our focus on American-made quality, service and value. Loyal customers can count on the SK brand being re-energized under IDEAL ownership as the premier 'Made in USA' line of professional tools."

This latest move follows IDEAL's acquisition of American tool makers Western Forge and Pratt Read earlier this year, and further demonstrates the company's ongoing dedication to manufacturing in the United States. Although IDEAL is still formalizing plans, the company is committed to manufacturing SK tools in the United States, either by integrating production into its existing plants or building a new, state-of-the-art facility. IDEAL will publish its comprehensive manufacturing plans for SK within 30 days after the sale closes.

Founded in 1921, Chicago-based SK Hand Tools is considered an icon by generations of mechanics. Its broad line of quality-made tools, including sockets, ratchets, hammers, and wrenches, have evolved over time to make them among the most precise and reliable on the market. IDEAL intends to sell SK Hand Tools' portfolio of nearly 4000 tools under the SK® brand throughout the automotive and industrial channels of distribution.

The asset sale is expected to be finalized on August 25, 2010 with IDEAL assuming no liabilities. SK had filed for bankruptcy protection on June 29, 2010.

Porter-Cable has just announced the products that will hopefully be just the first of many in their 12-volt line. The new 12-volt lithium-ion tools include a drill/driver, impact driver, and a compact reciprocating saw. As a direct result of the economy, Porter-Cable's goal with these tools is to offer quality at a low price that everyone can afford. While their big brother DeWalt went with a special battery in their 12V tools, Porter-Cable opted to stick with the in-handle design to cut down on costs.