2024 saw a lot of innovation in woodworking tools as shown by the Pro Tool Innovation Awards. Battery-powered technology continues to replace more and more corded tools where that makes sense in the workshop and on-site carpentry. Other product innovations, however, simply improved upon designs and products once thought tried and true.
We saw innovation in track saws, routers, miter saws, and more. Battery-powered tools continue their encroachment on an industry that, just a decade ago, was dominated by corded products. Once relegated to handheld tools, battery-powered benchtop tools are becoming increasingly popular.
Check out our 2024 Woodworking and Carpentry Awards winners and finalists below!
Winner – Chisels
Apex Tool Group Crescent CWCH10 1″ Wood Chisel
What they said:
Crescent chisels are designed to deliver the best in durability, safety, and ease of use. The superior design of our Tradesman Wood Chisels starts with their full metal core and 17% larger strike caps. The full metal core, from the strike cap to the tip of the chisel, allows for ultimate durability on the job. Other features include the corrosion-resistant drop forged steel blade, two-shot handle design for comfort, and the two parallel flat hand design to reduce tool roll-off and allow for ease of tool pickup.
What we say:
A chisel is a chisel, right? Not exactly. We like the Crescent 1″ wood chisel as it uses a full metal core that goes through the entire handle. They also feature precision ground, drop-forged carbon steel blades that hold an edge well and can be sharpened easily when needed. Parallel flats on the handle give you a comfortable and secure grip and keep the tool from rolling around when you set it on the workbench. Lastly, Crescent gives you a nice thick strike cap, providing a handy tapping point if needed.
Price: $12
For more information, click here.
Winner – Clamps
Rockler Woodworking and Hardware Quick-Release Multi-Clamps
What they said:
You’ve never seen a bar clamp quite as versatile as the Rockler Quick-Release Multi-Clamp! With three types of interchangeable heads—F-style for use like a traditional clamp, T-shaped for sliding into T-tracks, and round post for use in any 3/8” hole (like our Universal Fence Clamps)—you get versatility like no other. Just press the quick-release button to swap out heads. Plus, the Acme screw also features a quick-release button to make adjustments lightning-fast. Use the Multi-Clamps for all kinds of applications: clamping up small assemblies, securing Clamp-It Assembly Squares, as hold-down clamps on your T-track table, and for securing sacrificial fences and material stops on your power tools.
What we say:
Rockler Quick-Release Multi-Clamps offer three interchangeable heads: F-style, T-shaped (for use with T-tracks), and round post head (which fits into 3/8″ holes on tool fences). Quick-release buttons on both the bar and screw make it easy to change up. These clamps look ideal for clamping small assemblies, securing workpieces, or holding down fences. If you want a “one-stop-shop” clamp for your workshop projects, this is the ticket.
Price: $40
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Jig Saws
Bosch Power Tools GST18V-60BCN 18V Brushless Connected Barrel-Grip Jig Saw
What they said:
This Bosch GST18V-60BCN 18V Barrel-Grip Jig Saw is built precisely for woodworking and optimized for curve cuts and thicker materials. It features a brushless motor that delivers corded performance, with up to 3,800 strokes per minute. This barrel-grip jig saw provides an easy-to-reach, pulse-activated, double-sided switch to accommodate working with either the left or right hand and features an adjustable blade guide/channel, which minimizes blade deflection while performing straight or curve cuts.
The 18V cordless jig saw has four pendulum stages, to shift from fast cutting to cleaner cuts. Connecting to the jig saw to the Bosch Toolbox App allows users to pre-select speeds, turn the light on and off, and provide information on drop control events, which shuts the tool off for increased user protection when it’s accidentally dropped. It also features an adaptive speed-control setting, which will dial down the strokes per minute to control the entry point of the blade and the workpiece. Once the saw blade touches the workpiece, the jig saw will resume the selected speed, to provide the best control and precision.
Additionally, the jig saw features a tool-free T-shank blade-change system, keeping accessory changes simple and efficient. The jig saw also features a blower that can be switched on and off to keep a work area clean and is compatible with guide rail and circle adapters. With its extended upfront soft-grip areas and a small barrel-grip circumference for greater tool control, the dust blower and LED light ensure cut lines stay visible. The tool’s large die-cast aluminum footplate with no-mar plastic overshoe also prevents damage to the workpiece.
What we say:
Bosch claims the GST18V-60BCN 18V Barrel-Grip Jig Saw delivers corded performance. With up to 3,800 strokes per minute, we don’t doubt it. The saw includes a pulse-activated double-sided switch for ambidextrous use and an adjustable blade guide to help reduce deflection. Lastly, an adaptive speed control ramps down the blade as you begin a plunge cut and then speeds back up once you’re in the workpiece. Bosch also included the expected features like orbital modes, a cutline blower, a tool-free blade change system, and an LED worklight. You can also connect the tool to the Bosch Toolbox App to see drop control events (where the tool is automatically shut off due to a fall), make adjustments to the LED light behavior, and more.
Price: $209
For more information, click here.
Winner – Miter Saws, Accessories
Red House Tools EZ-Wings Pro EZP-36
What they said:
The EZ-Wings PRO miter saw system comes with everything you need to convert your saw into a precision powerhouse. Its ingenious design allows for quick installation with precision adjustment, providing a sturdy and versatile platform that is a seamless extension of your existing miter saw platform. For use on either a bench top setup or a jobsite saw stand, the EZ-Wings system works with any make or model of miter saw, and is endlessly expandable with our EZ-Wings Extensions.
The built-in T-Track channels allow for the use of dozens of accessories like stop-blocks, hold-down clamps, measuring devices, or molding jigs, and with the addition of our Back Fence system, your miter saw can be transformed into a precision carpentry workstation in a matter of minutes. Precision parts made from high-quality machined aluminum.
What we say:
The EZ-Wings PRO miter saw system upgrades your miter saw into a workstation. Red House Tools designed it to take your saw and increase its precision and c capabilities for both bench-top and jobsite use. We love that the universal design works with any miter saw brand, and you can customize and expand the system with EZ-Wings extensions for additional material support. They even built T-Track channels into the wings to let you use third-party clamps and accessories. With the right mix of products, you can turn your miter saw into a production workhouse.
Price: $409.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Miter Saws
Hilti SM 60-22 Miter Saw
What they said:
A fully cordless miter cutting solution that increases cutting efficiency and portability without compromising power or precision, the highly anticipated Nuron-powered SM 60-22 Cordless miter saw is a must-have upgrade to any tool crib. Featuring a compact design for more productivity in tight spaces as well as safer and simpler handling with upfront controls and forward pivoting, the SM 60-22 offers easier angle adjustments ideal for woodworking.
Offering up to 450 cuts per charge with the powerful Nuron B 22‑255 Battery, operators can experience enhanced efficiency and work interrupted for longer periods. With multiple speed settings, users can boost productivity through adjusting cutting speed and quality based on project needs. And with the full Hilti system that pairs the SM 60-22 with the miter saw table, fine finish blade and Universal framing blade, operators can achieve up to 53% more work per charge than leading brands—tackling jobs with peak power and performance.
What we say:
The Nuron-powered SM 60-22 Cordless Miter Saw offers a powerful, yet portable solution for the jobsite or workshop. With a compact design, it excels in tight spaces due to its forward dual-rail design. You also get safer handling with upfront controls for both mitering and beveling. 6 different speed settings let you vary the speed to better accommodate various materials (including using a metal-cutting blade). We love the use of a shadow cut line that stays accurate regardless of the kerf of the blade. A simple non-wheeled stand lets you get up and running quickly and has an adjustable leg for perfect leveling on uneven surfaces. The back fence and side plates move easily and feature tool-free locking and adjustment. This is simply an overall excellent saw.
Price: $869
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Routers
DeWalt DCW620B 20V MAX XR® 2-1/4 PEAK HP Plunge Router
What they said:
Experience the power to tackle tough applications without the constraints of a cord with the World’s First 20V MAX Cordless 2-1/4 Peak HP Dedicated Plunge Router. The router’s 2-1/4 peak HP brushless motor effortlessly handles bits up to 2-1/2 in. in diameter, while the variable speed dial ensures constant speed under load for consistent cutting performance. This router can complete up to 256 linear feet of 5/8 in. roundovers in pine on a single charge.
Featuring integrated dust collection with Airlock™ compatibility to help maintain a clean workspace, this cordless router captures up to 97% of dust. While the Perform & Protect™ Anti-Rotation™ System senses the rotational motion of the tool and shuts it down if the motion is excessive. From flawless edgework to aggressive plunge cuts, The 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router (battery and charger sold separately) seamlessly combines power, control, versatility, and portability to deliver unparalleled DEWALT performance.
What we say:
DeWalt’s 20V 2-1/4 HP plunge router is their most powerful cordless option and has the power to support larger bits. A single 5Ah PowerStack battery can round over 256 linear feet of pine using a 5/8-inch bit. Integrated dust collection captures up to 97% of dust, meaning you can keep your worksite clean and better use the integrated dual-LED light. An Anti-Rotation System provides a great safety feature by shutting down the tool if gets loose and encounters excessive rotational motion. This is a router that will appeal to professionals looking to cut the cord and free themselves to work more efficiently.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.
Winner – Belt Sanders
DeWalt DCW220B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Belt Sander
What they said:
Designed with the professional in mind DEWALT’s First 20V MAX XR® 3X21 in. Cordless Belt Sander (Tool Only) is ideal for carpentry, remodeling, and general contracting. The variable speed trigger with lock-on 25 speed selection dial allows for control for various applications. The quick release belt change allows sandpaper to be changed easily. With the over-mold auxiliary handle it gives you two- handed operation and grip for scribing applications.
The dust collection features include a tool-free Dust Port Swivel adapter, that is compatible with DEWALT’s Airlock™ System or a standard 35mm dust extractor (both sold separately) to minimize dust during sanding. Wireless Tool Control™ System allows for ease of use when paired with compatible DEWALT vacuum or dust extractor (both sold separately). With a Brushless Motor, this cordless belt sander can achieve long runtime and efficiency. Lastly, the 3X21 in. platen allows for large surface area sanding.
What we say:
The DeWalt 20V XR 3×21 in. cordless belt sander covers more area—with over 15% more surface coverage than a 3×18 in. sander. It’s compatible with DeWalt Airlock accessories or 35mm systems—so you can quickly connect to compatible dust extraction systems like the DWV015. A variable speed trigger with a lock-on dial gives you precise control, and a quick-release mechanism allows for easy belt changes. We like the over-molded forward handle, which gives you a solid two-handed grip.
Price: $299
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Sanders
Milwaukee Tool 2837-20 M18 FUEL™ 5” Random Orbital Sander
What they said:
Designed for the professional carpenter, remodeler, and general contractor, our M18 FUEL™ 5” Random Orbital Sander generates the Power for Heavy Stock Removal to sand the toughest materials on site while delivering the Lowest Cordless Vibration at 12K OPM and Up To 95% Dust Collection. The ergonomic form factor, compact size, and low vibration offer increased user comfort during operation. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor and REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence deliver corded power for faster removal at 12,000 OPM for enhanced productivity on the jobsite.
The sander features a random orbital sanding motion with a 3/32” orbit diameter to deliver a clean, consistent stain-grade surface finish, combined with a variable 5-mode speed button from 12K – 6K for increased control across a wide variety of materials. Equipped with VACLINK™ Bluetooth technology, the sander delivers up to 95% efficiency and instant dust control when paired with our M18 FUEL™ PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor. Our battery-powered 5” Random Orbital Sander is backed by our industry-leading 5-year limited power tool warranty.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 5” Random Orbital Sander has an ergonomic design that we love. It truly feels more like a pneumatic palm sander than a cordless tool. Milwaukee also added VacLink dust collection technology, which collects up to 95% of dust when paired with a compatible extractor. It also uses a unique 5-mode button for speed control. This is a great tool with the power to remove lots of material as needed when prepping for finishes.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Table Saws, Accessories
SawStop Revolution Miter Gauge
What they said:
Get unmatched precision and accuracy with the turn of a dial with SawStop’s Revolution Miter Gauge. Featuring patented technology, the Revolution Miter Gauge offers intuitive, tool-free adjustments and provides finely tuned precision that is exact, reliable, and repeatable.
Setting angles is quick and easy using the intuitive geared dial system, set in increments of 1°, 1/2°, 1/4°, or 1/10° with tactile feedback so you can feel your desired angle click into place, making angle adjustments reliably accurate, quick, and easy.
A blessing for any woodworker valuing peak accuracy—like woodworkers, segmented woodturners, finish or trim carpenters, or furniture makers—the Revolution Miter Gauge provides precision in seconds.
The extruded aluminum telescoping fence provides a solid reference surface for workpieces, with a maximum crosscut of 37-1/2” using the included flip stop. The reversible fence works with the miter gauge in either the left or right miter slots with equal accuracy and ease of use.
What we say:
SawStop’s Revolution Miter Gauge changes the way you will think about table saw miter gauges. It features a patented geared dial system that lets you set precise angles in increments as small as 1/10°. As it adjusts, it provides tactile feedback so you know you have the angle correct and have locked in the adjustment. The fence is made from extruded aluminum and telescopes to give you a maximum crosscut of 37-1/2”. This is a great add-on for anyone looking to get the most out of their table saw.
Price: $449
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Table Saws
FLEX FX7221-Z 10″ Table Saw
What they said:
Power through rough construction and carpentry jobs with the FLEX 24V 10” Table Saw. This cordless table saw delivers industry-leading cut capacity as the first cordless 10-inch table saw to cut 4×4 lumber in one pass. CUTSENSE™ technology automatically stops the blade after each cut to extend runtime and productivity. Its rack & pinion fence system allows quick alignment and accurate cuts. A rechargeable LED fence worklight lights up your workpiece and is removable for added lighting versatility around the jobsite.
What we say:
The Flex 24V 10” table saw has a couple of claims to fame. First is the fact that it cuts through 4×4 lumber in a single pass. If that’s not impressive enough, it maximizes battery life through the use of CutSense technology, which automatically stops the blade after each cut. It features our favorite type of fence—a rack & pinion design that allows for quick and confident settings. Lastly, a rechargeable LED fence work light illuminates the table, and you can even remove it for use elsewhere on the jobsite. Want “infinite” runtime? Grab a 24V power adapter instead of the 24V battery, and you’re good to run the saw off 120V AC power.
Price: $549
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jobsite/Portable Table Saws
Bosch Power Tools GTS15-10/10 In. Jobsite Table Saw with Gravity-Rise Wheeled Stand
What they said:
The Bosch GTS15-10 10 In. Jobsite Table Saw with Gravity-Rise Wheeled Stand delivers both a large professional rip capacity and outstanding portability to get the job done.
The powerful 15-Amp motor saw delivers outstanding productivity to tackle a 32-1/8 In. rip cut capacity, a 4×4 single cut capacity all while handling intense cross-cutting jobs through hard woods. The saw also features a convenience brake that stops the blade in three seconds, helping to increase productivity during a task.
The Rack and Pinion Rip Fence is engineered for workers’ ease-of-use and allows for seamless micro and macro adjustments with a hand knob, without having to tap and knock the fence into place. The lighter GTA50W Gravity-Rise Wheeled Stand has 8 In. treaded rubber-composite tires and foot release pedal for easy set-up and transport. It is jobsite-ready with heavy-duty construction and the Smart Guard System that features a three-position adjustable riving knife, anti-kickback pawls and non-obstructed-view barrier guard assembly.
Also, with its on-tool storage to hold accessories and CLAMPZONE™ areas to allow the tabletop to be used as a light duty, secondary work surface, this table saw offers workers an easy and convenient cutting solution for any jobsite.
What we say:
The Bosch GTS15-10 continues the legacy of really well-made table saws. Now, however, Bosch has finally adopted the rack-and-pinion fence system to its 10″ flagship jobsite model while also adding a ClampZone area which lets you turn the table into a helpful work surface. Given the new fence, on-tool storage should be much improved. The 15-amp motor lets you handle 32-1/8” rip cuts and slice a 4×4 in a single pass. Bosch continues to pair this saw with their excellent Gravity-Rise stand. This saw seems perfect for carpenters and contractors who need a reliable, versatile cutting tool on any jobsite.
Price: $599
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Track Saws
Hilti SC 6WP-22 Cordless plunge saw
What they said:
For precise cutting in wood, fiber board, drywall and solid surfaces, the new SC 6WP-22 Plunge saw is up to the task. The SC 6WP-22 is built with a powerful brushless motor, long-lasting Nuron battery, and compact, lightweight design. Boasting a top speed of 6000 RPM, the SC 6WP-22 is able to make faster cuts while optimizing performance and battery life. This saw also allows for ultimate control with bevel and 1mm depth adjustments for straight cuts into wood up to 53mm depth with guiderail.
Enhanced safety features also allow for a virtually dust-free experience. Its dust and wood chip capture system help reduce harmful dust inhalation and necessary clean-up so you can cut safely, precisely, and efficiently. This versatile saw is a convenient alternative to a table saw for straight cuts with a guiderail, long bevel cuts, and sizing sheet goods on-site.
What we say:
The Hilti SC 6WP-22 Plunge Saw has a variable speed dial and delivers up to 6000 RPM for fast, efficient cuts. You can set the cutting depth in increments of 1mm using the handy gauge—which accounts for use with and without a guide rail. The 6.5″ saw has a maximum depth of cut of 2.24″ (just over 2″ with a guide rail). It features excellent dust collection via the included blade cover and port. You also get onboard tool storage for blade changes, and when making bevel cuts, there’s an innovative moving blade cut indicator. Hilti has a variety of blades for cutting everything from wood to fiber cement.
Price: $579
For more information, click here.
Winner – Vacuums, Dust Collectors
Rockler Woodworking and Hardware Dust Right 4” Wall-Mount Cyclone Dust Separator
What they said:
One of the best upgrades you can make to a single-stage dust collection setup is to convert it into a 2-stage dust collector. Our Wall-Mounted Dust Separator does just that, making your existing collector run lean and mean, maximizing efficiency, and minimizing the need to empty the main bag. The cyclone separator filters out the biggest, bag-filling chips before they ever hit the main collection bag, which takes care of the more problematic fine dust.
You’ll still have to empty these bigger chips from the separator bag, but the chore of dealing with the fine dust in the main bag will be dramatically reduced. Thankfully, removing the separator bag and emptying it couldn’t be easier—simply grip the handles and twist to detach.
What we say:
The Rockler 4″ wall-mounted dust separator is an ideal upgrade for single-stage dust collectors, converting them into a more efficient two-stage system. It filters out large debris before it reaches the main bag, reducing the frequency of emptying fine dust. We love the wall-mount design, which saves floor space, and the ergonomic bag detachment makes emptying easy. With a 20-gallon bag, 4” ports, and easy assembly, this separator enhances dust collection efficiency while keeping your workspace cleaner and more organized.
Price: $250
For more information, click here.