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WINNER – Cordless Augers

RYOBI 18V ONE+ 35′ Drain Auger

What they said:

Take control of your plumbing with the RYOBI 18V ONE+ 35′ Drain Auger saving you time, money, and the hassle of expensive repairs. This puts the power back in your hands for a quick, easy, and efficient solution. Designed to easily clear heavy duty clogs in up to 3″ pipes. It accepts both 1/4″ and 5/16″ cables, making it versatile for various household and professional applications. The 1/4″ cable (A122AD3 sold separately) is perfect for clearing clogs in showers, bathtubs, and sinks, while the 5/16″ cable is ideal for tougher tasks like toilets, floor drains, and main stacks.

The enclosed drum ensures a mess-free experience, and its ergonomic, portable design allows for comfortable use. Equipped with an on-board LED work light, you can work in dimly lit areas with ease. For added convenience, the cable lock feature allow for manual removal of stubborn clogs, and the durable, reinforced cable prevents kinks. This drain auger offers enhanced cable control with both manual and auto cable feed/retract settings for easy operation. Compatible with the RYOBI LINK system for convenient and organized storage. Best of all, it is part of the RYOBI ONE+ System of over 300 Cordless Products that all work on the same battery platform. This 18V 35′ Drain Auger is backed by the RYOBI 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty. Battery and charger sold separately.

What we say:

We’ve all encountered plumbing issues, so having a tool like the Ryobi 18V 35′ Drain Auger gives you an affordable, cordless solution for clearing stubborn household blockages. We like that you get a full 35 feet of cable, so you can get all the way to the main wasteline. The tool also accepts both 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch cables, so you can use it on sinks and tubs as well as floor drains and main stacks. It features an enclosed drum, so you don’t have the mess associated with many other augers. Lastly, our judges liked the integrated cable lock, LINK storage compatibility, and auto feed/retract controls.

Price: $179

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WINNER – Cable Puller

Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL™ 1K Wire Puller 2924-20

What they said:

The MILWAUKEE® M18 FUEL™ 1K Wire Puller delivers the easiest, most productive wire pulling for light feeder and homerun applications. Designed to sustain up to 2x more pulling power, it enables electricians to complete tougher runs without sacrificing performance. Compared to manual pulling, the 1K Wire Puller reduces muscle effort by up to 80%, helping minimize fatigue and support productivity throughout the workday. An integrated auto-line tensioning feature streamlines pulling line management while reducing the need for a second operator, improving overall jobsite efficiency.

With the addition of a Telescoping Wire Puller Support and 2′ Mast Extension, the puller provides enhanced versatility across a variety of setups. Powered by a POWERSTATE™ Brushless motor and M18™ REDLITHIUM™ batteries (sold separately), it delivers the strength and run time required to complete the job. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures consistent performance and system protection under demanding conditions.

What we say:

At the recent Milwaukee Pipeline media event, the M18 FUEL 1K Wire Puller stole the show. We’ve seen cable pullers before, but not one that is this compact, this powerful, and powered off a single M18 battery pack. It’s ideal for light feeder and homerun work where a single operator needs a tool that can provide controlled pulling power. This is a tool that’s going to allow people to work in a way that literally reduces or eliminates several pain points. We love the auto-line tensioning, the telescoping wire puller support, and the 2-foot mast extension. We suspect this tool is going to make a lot of MEP professionals very happy.

Price: $2,000 (kit)

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WINNER – Cable/Wire Strippers

Ripley Tools US21-7300 Triplex VariStrip™ Stripper

What they said:

The US21-7300 self-adjusting 600V service wire stripper is a revolution in triplex cable prep. The first die-less stripper to tackle any service entrance wire from 1/0 AWG to 350 kcmil AWG, the US21-7300 replaces a traditional 4-way and at least 7 bushings, if not 14+ after accounting for differences among cable manufacturers. Sized to address the most common 600V triplex bundles in one tool (1/0 AWG – 350 kcmil AWG). Automatically positions the conductor relative to the blade for clean strips across the full range

Drill-driven for speed and ergonomics or hand-turned operation in tight spaces. Adjustable stripback lengths from 0.75” to 3”. Features a field-replaceable tool-steel blade. The US21-7300 saves time and money, but the real savings are in eliminating the frustration of finding out on site that your bushing doesn’t fit the cable.

What we say:

Triplex cable stripping and prep takes time, so anything that can speed up that process is very welcome. The Ripley Tools US21-7300 Triplex VariStrip™ puts everything into a single self-adjusting tool that you power using any cordless drill. It handles common 600V triplex service wire from 1/0 AWG to 350 kcmil, automatically aligning the conductor for clean stripping from 0.75 to 3 inches. In tight spaces, you can even use it by hand, and it features a field-replaceable blade.

Price: $283.99

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WINNER – Non-Contact Voltage Detectors

Milwaukee Tool BOLT™ Personal Voltage Detector

What they said:

Milwaukee Tool expands their jobsite safety solutions with the new BOLT™ Personal Voltage Detector, delivering the most consistent alerts, easiest operation, and secure integration within the BOLT™ System. Designed to increase awareness when working around live electrical sources, this solution provides clear alerts without the risk of user error from sensitivity adjustments.

The BOLT™ Personal Voltage Detector features a wide detection field and clearer voltage alerts to help users quickly identify the presence of voltage. This solution’s single‑mode operation eliminates sensitivity‑setting mistakes, ensuring reliable performance every time it’s used. Designed for seamless integration, the Personal Voltage Detector mounts securely to the BOLT™ Front Mount and remains compatible with all MILWAUKEE® BOLT™ Safety Helmets and Hard Hats, allowing users to secure multiple accessories simultaneously. Powered by a USB‑C rechargeable internal battery, the BOLT™ Personal Voltage Detector delivers up to 32 hours of runtime, helping tradespeople stay protected throughout long workdays without frequent recharging.

What we say:

Our judges loved the safety feature in the Milwaukee BOLT Personal Voltage Detector. It gives you reliable non-contact voltage awareness in a helmet-mounted design. You get both tone and light alerts, a wide detection field, and up to 32 hours of runtime with the internal USB-C rechargeable battery. It works with all Milwaukee BOLT helmets and hard hats, plus it features IP67 water resistance, so you don’t have to worry about removing it when it rains.

Price: $329

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WINNER – Cordless PEX Expansion

RIDGID® RPE 100 PEX Expander

What they said:

The RIDGID® RPE 100 PEX Expander addresses one of the most common inefficiencies in plumbing installation with manual PEX expanders. Its industry-first AutoReturn technology automatically returns the expansion head to the closed position after each expansion. This innovation eliminates the need for manual resets, helps ensure expanders are never left open between connections, and saves time on every cycle.

Powered by a high-efficiency brushless motor, the RPE 100 delivers faster expansion cycles to help plumbers complete more connections in less time without sacrificing consistency. An auto rotating head ensures even, uniform expansion across PEX fittings, reducing the risk of under expansion, minimizing rework and improving overall connection reliability on the jobsite. This compact, lightweight tool offers an ergonomic paddle trigger for precise control in tight spaces and includes dual press activation to reduce accidental startups. It features a belt hook for easy portability, integrated LEDs for visibility and performance, a built-in work light for use in low-light areas, and LED indicators that automate lubrication reminders and alert users to overheating, helping to prolong tool life and ensure reliable operation.

What we say:

We like the Ridgid RPE 100 PEX Expander kit for including everything needed to tackle 1/2-, 3/4-, and 1-inch PEX-A tubing. This is also Ridgid’s first PEX expander to use AutoReturn, which resets the head after each cycle. The auto-rotating head promotes uniform expansion and reduces the need to rework tubing. The PTIA judges particularly liked the compact body and paddle-style trigger that lets you activate the tool at the top or bottom, depending on your grip.

Price: $599

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Cordless Press Tools

Milwaukee Tool M12™ FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool Kit w/ONE-KEY™

What they said:

Milwaukee Tool enhances their press system with the introduction of the next‑generation M12™ FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool w/ ONE‑KEY™, delivering confidence in every cycle for plumbers, mechanical contractors, and HVAC technicians. This press tool is engineered to complete fast, reliable connections across copper, PEX, black iron, stainless steel, and ACR from 1/4″ to 1-½”, varying by material. When combined with Milwaukee’s lineup of press rings and jaws, professionals unlock unmatched access and efficiency.

The M12™ FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool w/ ONE‑KEY™ is the smallest, most intelligent press tool in its class, maintaining the best access and unlocking tool management. Built for better access, the one-handed in‑line design allows professionals to work easily in tight spaces or confined environments. This in-line design, paired with Milwaukee’s pivoting rings, delivers professional users the best access for navigating tight spaces and around pipes.

Built for professional demands, the M12™ FORCE LOGIC™ Press Tool w/ ONE‑KEY™ ensures a full press every cycle with Auto‑Cycle technology and features a visual indicator light that confirms completion or signals when calibration is needed. This solution is ONE‑KEY™ enabled for tracking, managing, and reporting. Integrated performance monitoring provides assurance in reliable connections so users can generate time‑stamped data logs for faster, more efficient documentation and reporting. ONE-KEY™ offers the industry’s largest tracking network and tool lockout to help protect users’ investments.

What we say:

It was the sheer one-handed portability of the Milwaukee Tool M12 FORCE LOGIC Press Tool Kit w/ One-Key that won our judges over. With just a 3.8-pound package, you get an inline press tool with 5,400 pounds of force. It should be the go-to tool for plumbers, mechanical contractors, and HVAC technicians looking for a solution that is up to the task of reaching into tight spaces. One-Key only makes it better, with tool tracking, management, and time-stamped reporting. You also get Auto-Cycle and a visual indicator so you can be sure your presses are complete and verified every time. The tool is also universal, supporting crimps across copper, PEX, black iron, stainless steel, and ACR piping.

Price: $1,949

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WINNER – Punch Tool

SPYDER 605000 6-Die Hole Knockout Punch Set

What they said:

The Spyder® 10-Piece Hole Knockout Punch Die Set provides professionals with a versatile solution for creating precise conduit and panel openings across multiple applications. Manufactured from rugged alloy steel, each die is engineered for long-lasting durability and consistent cutting performance. This comprehensive set includes multiple popular knockout punch sizes, making it ideal for electrical and HVAC installation projects. Designed to create clean, accurate holes in mild steel and stainless steel materials, the set helps improve productivity while delivering professional results. Whether working in commercial, industrial, or residential environments, this kit offers the reliability professionals demand.

Up to 25% Faster Than Bi-Metal Hole Saws: Delivers fast, clean conduit knockouts with less installation time. Designed for use with impact drivers to speed conduit knockout applications. Cuts Stainless & Mild Steel: Cuts up to 18-ga stainless steel and 16-ga mild steel electrical panels and enclosures. Complete 10-Piece Electrician’s Kit includes 1/2 in. through 2 in. conduit punches, impact bearing driver, impact-rated adapter, set nuts, and blow-molded storage case.

What we say:

The Spyder 6-Die Hole Knockout Punch Set gives you the most common conduit sizes needed for electricians and HVAC technicians who need a quick way to make clean openings in panels and enclosures. The kit works with any impact driver, and it’s rated for up to 18-gauge stainless steel and 16-gauge mild steel. This is a very comprehensive set for anyone looking for speed, repeatability, and durability when punching holes in panels.

Price: $489.99

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WINNER – Specialty

LevTech, LLC Plumber’s Xtreme™ Torpedo Level with AD1 Sprinkler Adapter

What they said:

The LevTech Plumber’s Xtreme™ Torpedo Level is engineered specifically for plumbers, pipefitters, mechanical contractors, and fire sprinkler professionals. Featuring five precision vials, including a gradient (pitch) vial, the Plumber’s Xtreme provides the versatility needed for leveling, pitch verification, and pipe alignment in one professional-grade tool. When paired with the optional AD1 Sprinkler Adapter, the Plumber’s Xtreme quickly becomes a precision alignment system for fire sprinkler installation, helping professionals improve accuracy while reducing setup time.

Five precision vials including 0°, 22.5°, 30°, 45°, and 90°. Integrated gradient (pitch) vial for verifying proper drainage and pipe slope. Bullseye vial for x/y axis accuracy for precision alignment. Four powerful Rare Earth Xtreme™ magnets for superior holding power. CNC-machined billet 6061 T6 aluminum construction. Replaceable vials with Lifetime Guarantee. Compatible with the optional AD1 Sprinkler Adapter for accurate sprinkler and overhead pipe alignment for ¾” and 1” pipe alignment

What we say:

LevTech’s Plumber’s Xtreme™ Torpedo Level didn’t stand out to us until we factored in the AD1 Sprinkler Adapter which adds stable overhead sprinkler alignment for 3/4-inch and 1-inch pipe. It then became a purpose-built plumbing and fire-sprinkler alignment tool. Then, the more we looked, the more we saw. It combines five vial positions, an integrated gradient vial for slope, and a bullseye vial for x/y alignment—all in a compact 8.5-inch aluminum body. You can anchor it to metal or pipe via four rare-earth magnets. The vials are also replaceable, and you get two spares just in case. If you install sprinkler systems or any overhead plumbing drops, you should seriously consider this tool.

Price: $74.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Cordless Specialty

RIDGID® FlexShaft® KM-1004 Milling Machine

What they said:

The RIDGID® FlexShaft® KM-1004 Milling Machine introduces a new level of innovation to the pipe maintenance and rehabilitation industry by combining two traditionally separate functions—high-speed drain cleaning and precision pipe milling—into a single platform. Built for 1¼″ to 4″ pipes and compatible with ¼″ and 5/16″ FlexShaft cables, the KM-1004 removes scale, corrosion, grease, roots, and other obstructions with ease. A digital cable counter and variable speed control help operators track distance and adjust performance to pipe conditions, improving precision and outcomes during critical restoration work. A built-in temperature sensor also helps protect the sheath during extended use.

What truly sets the KM-1004 apart is that it is the first and only hybrid-powered machine in its category, offering both 18V battery and corded operation in one system. This industry-first capability allows users to switch power sources based on jobsite conditions, helping crews maintain productivity and avoid downtime without sacrificing performance. Beyond its mechanical innovations, the KM-1004 brings a new level of connectivity to the drain cleaning market through RIDGID Link™ integration. Users can track tool location, receive maintenance reminders, generate job reports, and remotely enable tool lockout capabilities to help protect equipment and improve fleet management.

What we say:

The RIDGID FlexShaft KM-1004 won over our judges with two “hybrid” features. First, it combines drain cleaning and pipe milling in one compact platform, and second, it operates off either an 18V battery or corded power. Built for 1¼-inch to 4-inch pipes and compatible with ¼-inch and 5/16-inch FlexShaft cables, it lets plumbing professionals quickly deal with issues like grease, roots, and restoration prep across both residential and commercial work. Ridgid also includes Link™ integration for maintenance, reporting, and tool tracking.

Price: $5,279

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WINNER – VDV

IDEAL Electrical VDV Edge™ 62-856

What they said:

Coming soon in January of 2027. Where most traditional VDV testers typically have single-function location ID remotes, the VDV Edge™ comes with four multifunction remote IDs that deliver both fault identification and cable ID at every drop. It tests voice, data, and video cabling, which results in an intuitive wire map that reads pin by pin, flagging shorts, opens, miswires, reversals, and split pairs at a glance, with clear PASS indicators for correctly wired T568A/B data, telephone, and coax cables.

The backlit reverse LCD—white text on a black background—is built for the reality of where work is actually happening on the jobsite. Features include instant cable-length measurement up to 5,000 feet, which lets the installer plan pulls and pinpoint a break without a second tool, while onboard PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ detection lets crews work safely on mixed active and inactive networks and avoid damaging connected devices. Auto power-off and low-draw stretch battery life during long days in the field. The result is one pocketable, durable tool that consolidates mapping, length measurement, PoE detection, multi-cable tracing, and fault location.

What we say:

The IDEAL Electrical VDV Edge consolidates several essential tools into one compact tester. It maps voice, data, and video cabling pin by pin, flags common wiring faults, and even measures cable length up to 5,000 feet. It can also detect PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ on live networks. Not one, but four multifunction remote IDs let users identify and trace runs at the drop, reducing back-and-forth on crowded jobsites. We also liked the backlit white-on-black LCD, which makes the display easy to read in almost any location.

Price: $99.97

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Cordless Wire Crimpers

Greenlee® EX1240SLX 12-Ton Crimper

What they said:

The Greenlee® EK1240SLX 12-Ton Crimper is a redesigned tool for utility and industrial professionals, offering 10% less weight and 35% longer runtime than its predecessor. It delivers 24,000 lbs. of crimping force, handles copper and aluminum connectors up to 750 Kcmil, and comes with a 7-year warranty. The EK1240SLX incorporates a newly engineered C-head design that optimizes weight distribution to provide superior balance and minimize strain on arms and shoulders, while a grooved guide provides ram alignment, helping deliver consistent, repeatable crimps without second-guessing.

Integrated Automatic Retraction Stop (ARS) retracts the ram just enough to get ready for the next cycle, saving time and energy. Together, these design features contribute to reduced operator fatigue, smoother handling and improved comfort over long days in the field, especially important for crews performing repetitive crimping tasks. Greenlee’s proven Intelli-CRIMP™ technology continues to monitor crimp force and provides both a visual and audible alert to the operator if a crimp is out of specification – which is critical for tools used in remote or hard-to-reach applications.

What we say:

Greenlee revamped their cordless 12-ton crimping tool with the EX1240SLX and shaved a full 10% of the weight by redesigning the head. At the same time, they upped the runtime by 35%. It delivers 24,000 lbs. of crimping force and works across copper and aluminum connectors up to 750 kcmil. Greenlee gives you both visual and audible out-of-spec alerts, so you can be sure you have successful crimps, leaving nothing to chance. We also couldn’t ignore Greenlee’s 7-year warranty, which should instill users with a lot of faith in the company’s confidence in the longevity of their tools.

Price: $6,200

For more information, click here.