Tool Blog

Something we learn as a carpenter, or maybe more so as a woodworker, is that we can never have too many clamps. Building up a collection of clamps is usually something that is done over many years, which helps spread out the costs. But if you need clamps now and don't have a bunch of money, there is another option—make your own.

DeWalt has always received high reviews for their cordless gas-free trim nailers, and now it seems they are ready to utilize their technology in a more powerful cordless framing nailer. The DeWalt DCN692 will be their first dual-speed gas-free 20V Max Cordless Framing Nailer.

Amazon has a new lower sale price on the Porter-Cable 7312 Offset Base Laminate Trimmer. It was previously for sale at about $150 but has now been lowered to $125.77. As with all Amazon products its price could change at any time but usually it will stay the same for a couple of days.

We all know how handy cordless circular saws can be, but we also know that they are usually lacking when it comes to overall power and battery run-time. Makita, continuing to expand their new 2x 18-volt (36V) system, showcased their new 2x Cordless 7-1/4" Circular Saw (XSH01Z) that I am sure addresses some of the cordless circular saw shortcomings that we have all come to know and dislike.

A while back Makita sent out a sample pack of their new Impact Gold Bits, Sockets, and Nut Drivers, all of which are rated to handle the high torque that today's impact drivers can deliver. They also sent out some fasteners, some fastening materials and some suggestions on how to put their new impact ready bits to the test. Of course I ignored their scenarios and put the Makita Impact Gold Bits to the test while on the job.

If you do a quick search on the internet you will see that the DeWalt DW788 Scroll Saw is going for anywhere from $440 up to $499. So when I saw that Amazon had recently lowered their price to $399.20, I knew I had to share this deal with you.

Not too long ago Skil came out with a new Magnesium Worm Drive Saw, and people on the internet quickly noticed that it looked less like previous Skil saw designs and more like the worm drive saws by Bosch. Well that news wasn't that surprising considering both brands are part of the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation. Now Bosch has announced that they too have come out with a new Magnesium Worm Drive Saw (CSW41), and except for the colors and some branding it looks just like the Skil MAG77LT. So did Bosch copy Skil who copied Bosch, or did...

I just spotted a new deal on Amazon where if you purchase a Bosch Heated Jacket, they will include a 12V Battery and Charger Free of charge. As far as I know Bosch doesn't sell their heated jackets as a kit that includes a battery and charger, so this is a great way for non-Bosch owners to get in on the warmth.

Milwaukee Tool is expanding their M18 Lithium-ion system even further with the introduction of their new M18 Cordless Compact Blower. Delivering 100 CFM and 160 RPM with a variable speed trigger and three speeds, Milwaukee says the 0884-20 is the most powerful compact cordless blower in its class. Though that shouldn't be too difficult because the class is pretty small.

I am going to try something new and try to post more deals on smaller items that may not necessarily be tools, but might be tool accessories or jobsite related items. Hot deals on power tools are great, but it is also nice to score on some smaller items. For our first go we have a Plano 5231 Double Cover Stow N Go Organizer that is regularly priced at $15+ for the low price of $9.99.