Bosch added three new digital laser measures to their line up that are sure to impress. The GLR225, coming out this month, looks to be the next step up from the previous DLR130K & DLR165K. It features a 230 foot range and an accuracy of 1/16”. It also adds the Pythagorean theorem function that was available in the DLR165K, but was missing from the DLR130K. In total, the GLR225 offers 7 different measurement modes – length, area, volume, minimum/maximum, continuous, indirect length and multi-surface area measurements. The new min/max mode allows users to sweep the laser across a surface, and the laser will display the minimum and the maximum distance form your location.

The next two DLRs, model GLR500 and GLR825 offer a measuring range of 500 feet and 825 feet respectively, and have an impressive accuracy of 1 millimeter (about 1/25”). Because measuring at such great distances can be difficult, Bosch has added a 1.6x magnification viewfinder to both models. These lasers have even more measuring modes then the GLR225, 11 in total – length, area, volume, minimum/maximum, continuous, indirect length, double indirect, combined indirect, stake out, trapezoid, multi-surface area and timed measurement. Other features such as built-in memory, and an illuminated display have also been added. Models GLR500 and GLR825 should be available this July.

[:cicn:] Amazon

I talked about the Sortimo L-Boxx a bit a few months back, and also about the Bosch version being introduced in Europe. At the recent Bosch event, the media got the first news that these Boxxes are indeed on their way to the USA. To be honest, I never thought the Bosch version of the L-Boxx would make it across the pond, as the Systainer never did. So why the L-boxx and not the Systainer? Maybe Bosch just didn't want to use the same box as Festool.

The Bosch L-Boxx is not just a typical Sortimo L-Boxx colored blue with a fancy red Bosch logo. There is actually a simple change/addition that makes the Bosch version more suitable for workers. You will notice that the two smaller sizes of the Bosch L-Boxx have a handle in the front, that allow users to carry the case vertically. This is something the Sortimo L-Boxx currently does not offer. Also, as you have seen before, the cases can latch together and are stack-able.

Bosch will kick off the L-Boxx line with the introduction of three tool kits. The PS31 12-volt Drill + L-Boxx will be available starting this September as Model PS31-2AL, Price $159. The PS50 12-volt Multi-X + L-Boxx will also be out this September as Model PS50-2BL, Price $199. Third is a Bosch jig saw as Model 1590EVSKL coming this October, Price $199. Hopefully Bosch will start using these cases for all future tools.

You don't carry a bulky electric reciprocating saw around in your toolbox on the off chance you have to cut a single piece of copper pipe or make a small hole in some drywall; it is not very practical. For those light duty tasks you can get by with something much smaller. I like to turn to my trusty hand saw that accepts recip. blades – that is, if I can find a blade.

This is where the Milwaukee Folding Jab Saw flies in to save the day. You don't have to remove the blade after each use, you can simply fold it down and toss the saw into your toolbox. You can't lose the blade if it is still attached to the saw. The Folding Jab Saw can hold all standard recip. blades, so a replacement blade is as far as the local hardware store. The Jab Saw will include 3 blades; no word on price or availability.

Wow! I just had the privilege of trying out Bosch’s new 12” Duel-Bevel Miter saw; and I came away impressed. This saw, like the previous model, has all the up-front controls, which can really save time and strain on the back (no reaching behind to set the bevel); but when you look at the GCM12SD you’d think that something is missing – that it’s not a ‘slider’ – it’s too small. Exactly! This saw doesn’t have sliders or rails; this saw GLIDES.

Bosch’s Axial Glide System completely does away with the sliding rail system, yet provides 14” of horizontal cutting; and best of all takes up the space of a ‘chop saw’. For me, this means when on the job site, setting up production in a corridor or hallway, I’d have an extra foot of work space and no moving parts banging into the wall; and I can make my cuts without always waiting for a worker to pass behind. Referring to the photos I took (below), you’ll see: Rigid, Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt, Hitachi, and Festool – all on a workbench with Bosch; there you can really notice the space savings over the sliding rail system.

In real work conditions I’ve tried all these major brands of sliding miter saws (including Bosch’s older model) and found that they all are prone to have sticking problems. The bushings gum up with sawdust and I find myself having to force the saw forward. The Axial Glide System solves this problem with its articulating arms, which glide the saw through the cutting stroke. In fact, the saw travels so effortlessly that they’ve added a resistance adjustment (just in case you find the saw too smooth).

Cutting through a 14” piece of maple, I could feel how stable and precise the saw traveled through the entire stroke. And this system is tough; I watched as Jason, a proud Bosch product manager, splintered a couple of 2X4’s over the glide system without damage of misalignment.

This Value Conscience Pro can hardly wait to set this saw up on the big job and see the reaction of the guys as they ‘glide’ through the crown, base and casing.

[:cicn:] GCM12SD - Amazon -- GCM12SD - CopTool