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WINNER – Angle Finders

Johnson Level Dual-Screen Digital Angle Gauge

What they said:

The Dual-Screen Digital Angle Gauge features an auto-rotating dual-screen display designed to maximize visibility and convenience in any working position. With two screens providing expanded viewing angles, the top readout allows for real-time measurements even when the tool is positioned above your head, below your feet, or while bending pipe.

Powered by a USB-C rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the gauge delivers up to 30 hours of runtime, ensuring reliable, long-lasting performance on the job. The universal USB-C charging port adds further convenience by accepting any USB-C–equipped cord, making recharging simple and accessible.

What we say:

Having used many magnetic digital angle finders, this is the first we’ve seen with dual displays that can stand up in full sun. The reverse LED display lets you read from the front and top, and it auto-rotates, making it much simpler to use on pipe bends or even table saws. An innovative tool is one that lets you work the way you’re used to, and Johnson does exactly that. Aside from the display, Johnson Level’s Dual-Screen Digital Angle Gauge features rare-earth magnets and an internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Once charged, you get up to 30 hours of runtime, and the included USB-C cable plugs right into any compatible power adapter or source to keep you going indefinitely.

Price: $49.95

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Cutting

KNIPEX Tools Slim Knips

What they said:

The KNIPEX Slim Knips offers compact storage, a unique design, and precise cutting. For cutting soft materials such as cable ties with a controlled micro-cutting edge offset for the most precise cutting of even the thinnest wires. Opening spring for comfortable, repetitive use. Flexible handling – can be used in the hand or between the thumb and finger for better visibility and accessibility. Precisely shaped tips, lockable cutting edges for transport, and slim asymmetrically shaped handles for easy guiding into confined spaces.

What we say:

When you need to make precise, controlled cuts in tight spaces, a small tool is a necessity. The narrow handle and micro-offset cutting edge of the Knipex Slim Knips lets you get in close and make clean cuts on cable ties and very thin wire. The design not only lets you make difficult cuts, but it also lets you see where you’re cutting. We also liked that the handle locks in place to make it easier and safer to toss in your tool bag.

Price: $35

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Hammers

Martinez Tool Company MTC2260 16″ Titanium Framing Hammer

What they said:

The Martinez MTC2260 titanium framing features the MTC Titanium System, the first in its class with a two-piece design – separating the claw and steel head. Unlike traditional one-piece hammers, a damaged claw can be replaced independently, eliminating the need to discard the entire tool. The hammer includes a Keylock steel head that locks the face in place, preventing rotation even if the bolt loosens. Available with straight or traditional curved grips to match user preference and comfort. Combines innovative design with long-term usability, reducing downtime and replacement costs.

What we say:

Martinez Tool has been making titanium hammers for quite some time, and we’ve seen models with replaceable heads. The MTC2260 16″ Titanium Framing Hammer takes that even further, using a two-piece titanium system that separates the claw from the steel head. This lets you replace the claw independently from the head, so you never need to discard the whole tool if it’s damaged. The Keylock steel head is also designed to keep the face from rotating even if the bolt loosens.

Price: $295

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Pocket Knives

STANLEY STHT10524 Compact Folding Pocket Knife

What they said:

When you’re out there getting things done, you need a Folding Pocket Knife that’s built without compromise. From a no-fuss reversible belt clip to a one-handed push and flip opening, every feature is engineered for hardworking hands and solo operators. No matter the job, your tools need to keep up. This Folding Pocket Knife delivers strength, versatility, and reliability without the extra fluff, so you can be ready for anything.

What we say:

Stanley designed the STHT10524 Compact Folding Pocket Knife with a push-and-flip opening so that it deploys quickly. A reversible belt clip supports left- or right-handed use, and this lightweight tool is perfect for slipping into your pocket, tool belt, or toolbox. Aimed at users who need value-based reliability, the sub-$15 price point makes this an easy choice.

Price: $12.97

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Specialty Knives

OLFA PK-2 Disposable Bag Cutter

What they said:

OLFA North America is pleased to introduce the Disposable Bag Cutter | PK-2, a compact cutting tool designed to help employees safely and efficiently open bags, pouches, and packaged materials in industrial, food service, and distribution environments. Ideal for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, food processing operations, school cafeterias, restaurant kitchens, packaging lines, and shipping departments.

The Disposable Bag Cutter features a recessed stainless-steel blade designed to help reduce direct contact with the cutting edge while delivering clean, controlled cuts. Its lightweight design includes textured grip points for improved control, a bright yellow handle for high visibility, and an ambidextrous design suitable for both right- and left-handed users. When the blade reaches the end of its service life, the entire cutter can be replaced, eliminating the need for blade changes.

What we say:

Sometimes the simplest things are best. The OLFA PK-2 Disposable Bag Cutter is an inexpensive, compact, single-use cutting tool built for quickly opening sealed goods. It works by limiting direct blade contact, making it the safest tool you’ll ever use to slice open sealed bags. It features a recessed stainless-steel blade and a bright yellow high-visibility handle. This tool should work well for warehouses, commercial and residential kitchens, packing lines, and more. It even includes a hole at the top of the tool for storage or tethering.

Price: $5.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Utility Knives

WORKPRO Folding Utility Knife, 2-in-1 Multitool Knife

What they said:

The WORKPRO 2-in-1 Folding Utility Knife with Ratcheting Screwdriver improves two of the most frequently used jobsite and everyday-carry tools by combining cutting and fastening functions into one compact, pocketable design. Tradespeople, installers, maintenance users, and DIYers often switch repeatedly between a utility knife and a screwdriver during packaging, assembly, repair, and installation work. This product reduces that tool-switching by integrating a folding razor knife with a built-in 1/4-inch ratcheting screwdriver.

The key innovation is the practical combination of two high-frequency functions in a format that is still compact enough for everyday carry. The ratcheting screwdriver allows users to tighten or loosen screws more efficiently than a fixed driver, especially in repetitive tasks or tight areas. The included 10-piece bit set and extension bit holder expand its versatility across common screw types, while the integrated N45 magnet helps hold bits securely in place during use.

On the cutting side, the folding utility knife uses a quick blade-change system, allowing users to replace dull blades quickly and maintain a sharp cutting edge with less downtime. The included SK5 replacement blades support demanding everyday cutting tasks such as cardboard, packaging, paper, leather, PVC, and jobsite materials. The axis lock mechanism allows the blade to be safely retracted and folded, improving storage safety compared with open or fixed utility knives.

The product also improves portability and convenience. Instead of carrying a separate box cutter, screwdriver, bit set, and blade pack for small tasks, users can keep one compact tool in a pocket, tool pouch, drawer, glove box, or work bag. This makes it especially useful for installers, warehouse workers, homeowners, facility maintenance teams, and DIY users who need to cut and fasten during the same job.

What we say:

It’s a utility knife. It’s a small driver. Nope, it’s both! The WORKPRO Folding Utility Knife combines a folding utility knife with a 1/4-inch ratcheting screwdriver to create a single DIY-friendly tool that fits in your pocket or tool bag. It may seem overdesigned until you consider the tools typically used for furniture or product assembly. The included 10-bit set and extension holder ensure you’re never without the correct bit for most applications. On the knife side, you get a quick blade-change system and enough replacement blades to ensure plenty of use before you need to replenish them.

Price: $19.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Landscaping

Warwood Tool Wildland Hoe

What they said:

The Warwood Wildland Hoe improves on a proven wildland firefighting and land management tool category by combining field-serviceable design, forged American steel construction, and professional-grade edge retention in one rugged tool. Unlike many imported or stamped alternatives, the Wildland Hoe is built from forged 1060 steel, giving it the toughness, spring, and impact resistance needed for demanding work in firelines, trail maintenance, land clearing, habitat management, and property cleanup. Its three sharpened working edges allow users to cut, scrape, grub, clear duff, break soil, and move material efficiently without constantly changing tools.

One of the most important innovations is the handle attachment system. Instead of relying on rivets, the Wildland Hoe uses a locking bolt design that allows the tool to be broken down, tightened, or repaired in the field with a simple hex wrench. For wildland firefighters, land managers, trail crews, and homeowners working away from a shop, that field-serviceability matters. A damaged handle does not have to mean a dead tool. Crews can replace or service the handle and get back to work quickly. The tool also features a 60-inch American ash handle, giving users reach, leverage, and a traditional feel that professionals expect from a serious striking and digging tool. The welded neck is exceptionally clean and strong, creating a secure transition between the forged head and the handle system while maintaining the durability needed for repeated heavy use.

The Wildland Hoe’s heat-treated blades are designed to hold an edge longer than typical import tools, reducing downtime for sharpening and improving productivity over a long day in the field. The Warwood Blue powder-coated finish adds corrosion resistance and durability while connecting the tool to Warwood’s long history of making blue-painted tools for American railroads dating back more than 170 years.

What we say:

When a company improves upon an industry tool, it deserves recognition. The Warwood Wildland Hoe first improves quality by combining forged 1060 American steel with a 60-inch ash handle. A tool built for firelines, trail work, brush clearing, and land maintenance also needs to be field-repairable, so Warwood made it so that crews can tighten, repair, or replace the locking-bolt handle in the field with just a hex wrench. Lastly, this is an American-made tool. Add it all up, and you have an excellent grouping of product innovation and improvement.

Price: $70

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Levels

SOLA XPL Extendable Plate Level

What they said:

For years, framing professionals have tolerated major trade-offs with extendable plate levels: frame flex at full extension, jamming or loose brake mechanisms, and bulky profiles that are difficult to transport. The SOLA XPL transforms this market segment by delivering precision at scale through four core innovations: Zero-Flex Engineering & Triple-Reinforced Rigidity, Patented SOLA FOCUS Vial Technology, Eye-Level Ergonomics & Smooth Mechanical Drive, and Single-Tool Span Coverage & Practical Portability.

Retracted at 63 inches, the XPL fits flat inside the standard 5.5-ft short pickup truck bed without angling or sticking out. Designed for real-world jobsite conditions, the XPL underwent rigorous testing—including extensive extraction cycles, tip-over impact tests, and climate chamber simulations from -4°F to 140°F. It also includes integrated stand-offs to bridge sway bracing, impact-modified ABS feet, and an easily disassembled open profile for quick cleaning.

What we say:

The SOLA XPL Extendable Plate Level combines long-span coverage with jobsite portability and usability. You can extend this level from 63 to a full 144 inches. That means you can store it in your 5.5-foot truck bed and still level and 12-foot wall. We also like the reinforced aluminum profile so you all but eliminate flex—even at its full extension. The Sola FOCUS vial system continues to be one of our favorites and delivers easy visibility through the use of bubble magnification and high contrast, and the level keeps a plumb vial at eye level even as the level is extended to its full reach. Sola even includes a transport bag.

Price: $449

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Tape Measures & Rulers

MBS Standoffs Self-Centred With Monopod

What they said:

Current measurement tools for installing signage in commercial, apartment, condo, hospitals, hotels, and similar buildings are limited to basic hand tools with singular functions. Self-Centered, on the other hand, features:

• A bubble level
• Top and bottom channels allowing for accessories to be attached
• Simultaneously extending geared rails which will center automatically within a given span, like a door jam
• 2 rulers; the Front Ruler measures from either end inwards and the Rear Ruler sets the sign width for center-finding.
• Adjustable sliding end-stops which can also accept mounting jigs
• A mono pod that maintains a consistent install height when moving between multiple locations.

This tool will reduce the labor hours and skill level required to install many types of products, allowing companies to be more efficient on the job site, which means they can be more competitive in pricing and thus more profitable.

What we say:

Having just finished centering handles on a large kitchen and a separate oversized laundry room, finding centers is a laborious and time-consuming task. Now consider doing it for a high-rise or large multi-story office complex! When our judges saw the MBS Standoffs Self-Centred with Monopod, we understood the innovation immediately. It turns a basic leveling tool into a purpose-built installation aid for all manner of signage work. Using self-centering geared rails, separate front and rear rulers, an integrated level, and adjustable end-stops, MRO techs or facility managers will be able to rip through setting sign width and alignment quickly. The included monopod ensures you also maintain equal height across all installations. This is a truly innovative tool that will only improve with further iterations.

Price: $232.94

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Pliers

WORKPRO Mini Pliers Wrench, 4-Inch Smooth Jaw Plier

What they said:

Measuring only 4 inches long, the mini pliers wrench combines a compact profile with impressive functionality. Its slim design easily accesses tight or hard-to-reach spaces, making it ideal for precision tasks, everyday repairs, and EDC use. Crafted from heat-treated steel with a sturdy phosphate finish, 4-inch wrench pliers offer excellent strength, wear resistance, and corrosion protection for long-lasting performance in home, automotive, and workshop applications.

The parallel jaw design applies even pressure across the entire gripping surface, providing a secure hold without damaging finished materials. The adjustable jaw opening accommodates a wide range of sizes for added versatility. Engineered with a high-leverage transmission system, smooth jaw plier delivers powerful gripping force with minimal effort. It offers enhanced control for gripping, holding, tightening, and adjusting a variety of fasteners and components. Combining the functionality of pliers and a wrench in one portable tool, this lightweight companion is perfect for bicycle maintenance, plumbing work, automotive repairs, DIY projects, and everyday carry needs.

What we say:

Small pliers don’t need to be weak. The WorkPro Mini Pliers Wrench is a 4-inch smooth jaw plier made from heat-treated steel and with a phosphate finish. The parallel smooth jaws and adjustable opening should provide a secure, non-marring grip on most fasteners and components. Even though these are small pliers, WorkPro integrated a high-leverage mechanism to let you grip harder with less effort. The small 4-inch profile should make this a useful tool for getting into those tight spaces.

Price: $19.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Screwdrivers

CRAFTSMAN CMHT65125 6pc Screwdriver Set

What they said:

CRAFTSMAN’s OVERDRIVE screwdrivers are built for tough tasks. Each screwdriver tip has a tip treatment that offers up to 40% BETTER GRIP. Each screwdriver is also designed to protect against 2X AS MANY SOLVENTS to survive harsh conditions. Featuring a premium alloy bar and a gun-metal finish, these screwdrivers offer durability and corrosion resistance. This set also includes a wide range of sizes with a quick-find Tip ID to keep things moving.

What we say:

The primary innovation behind the Craftsman CMHT65125 6-piece screwdriver set is its Overdrive screwdriver tip treatment that offers up to a 40% better grip and 2X the ability to protect against solvents. They feature a premium alloy bar and a gunmetal finish to improve both durability and corrosion resistance. This set includes three Phillips and three slotted drivers, each with quick-find tip IDs to make it easy to grab the correct driver.

Price: $29.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – T-Handle Screwdrivers

CRAFTSMAN CMHT26032 OVERDRIVE 9pc SAE T-Handle Set

What they said:

CRAFTSMAN is expanding their OVERDRIVE assortment with new T-Handles. Each includes an SAE and MM assortment in both categories. They feature Tight Torque Technology™ to help remove stuck and stubborn fasteners rounded up to 70%. Designed with a gun-metal finish, every OVERDRIVE driver additionally resists corrosion. They are designed for hard-to-reach areas with long, rounded bars to minimize frustration. The T-Handle sets also include a storage stand to keep them organized.

What we say:

Craftsman improved their T-handle sets with Overdrive technology. The CMHT26032 9-piece SAE T-Handle Set pairs Tight Torque Technology with a design rated to remove rounded fasteners up to 70% while helping limit further damage. Long, rounded bars also improve reach in confined spaces like those found under most hoods. The gun-metal finish isn’t just for show—it adds some corrosion resistance for use in the shop. Craftsman includes a handy storage stand to keep all nine SAE drivers organized, labeled, and ready.

Price: $39.98

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Shears

Milwaukee Tool 1” Angled Pruner​ 48-22-9378

What they said:

Designed to deliver the easiest cutting with more durable performance, the 1″ Angled Pruner provides effortless cuts on branches and stems up to 1″. An ultra‑sharp blade with a low‑friction coating supports smooth cutting, while a reinforced blade attachment helps extend the tool’s life. A 2‑position adjustable lock plate allows half‑capacity locking for quicker cuts on smaller branches. The angled head improves access and comfort when working overhead or close to the ground, and slip‑resistant dipped grips provide control in harsh conditions.

What we say:

To us, the key innovation on the Milwaukee 1” Angled Pruner is the two-position lock. Having used their M12 shears, anything that can speed up the opening and closing of jaws saves you time and energy. Our judges simply didn’t expect to find that feature on a hand tool and were pleasantly surprised when it showed up. We also liked the angled head for improving reach and the reinforced blade attachment point.

Price: $54.98

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Squares

Hultafors 253120 Adjustable Miter Square Quattro 270

What they said:

The Hultafors Quattro 270 Adjustable Miter Square improves accuracy, versatility, and efficiency by combining multiple functions into one compact design. Its key innovation is the patented 270° rotating blade, which allows users to quickly set and lock common angles such as 45°, 90°, and 135°, while also providing access to additional angles and the reverse side of the tool. This flexibility eliminates many limitations of traditional fixed squares and reduces the need for multiple measuring tools. Pre-marked angles like 22.5° and 67.5° further enhance its adaptability across different applications.

The tool also improves productivity through integrated layout features. A built-in centerline enables fast, accurate marking on both sides of studs, while scribing notches allow users to draw parallel lines without extra tools. Another standout feature is its dual-corner design. It offers a sharp outer corner for precise marking, as well as a rounded corner for working in uneven or tight spaces. Made with a CNC-milled aluminum stock and a stainless steel blade, it provides long-lasting performance and high accuracy, with an angle tolerance of ±0.06°. The foldable design also makes it easy to carry and store.

What we say:

You may think the miter square has gone through all the potential innovations it can handle. You’d be wrong. The Hultafors’ Quattro 270 adds angle setting, marking, and layout features into one compact tool you’ll likely use every day. Judges loved the 270-degree rotating blade with common lock points at 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, and 270°. The stainless-steel blade and anodized aluminum handle give this tool longevity, and a built-in centerline and 5 mm scribing notches speed things up when marking studs and sheet goods.

Price: $54.99

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Vises

Wilton Tools WL1-112 3-in Clamp-On Apprentice Bench Vise

What they said:

The Wilton 3″ Clamp-On Apprentice Vise brings genuine workholding strength to a fully portable, tool-free mounting format. While most vises in this category sacrifice clamping performance for portability, the WL1-112 delivers up to 1,800 lbs. of clamping force while still attaching to virtually any work surface up to 3 inches thick in seconds, without tools or hardware installation. This is made possible by a quick-release mounting clamp engineered for fast, secure attachment and equally fast removal, paired with a body built from 65,000 PSI ductile iron that is roughly twice as strong as the standard gray iron found in comparable vises of this size.

The WL1-112 removes one of the most persistent bottlenecks in mobile and light-duty fabrication work: the time and hardware required to set up a stable clamping point on an unfamiliar work surface. The 45-degree swivel base with dual lockdowns allows the vise to be angled and locked precisely for detail work, while built-in pipe jaws handle round stock without a separate tool. A reversible sliding jaw combined with removable accessory dowel pins extends the vise’s practical clamping range to oversized or irregularly shaped parts, giving users far more versatility than the footprint would suggest. A dovetail slide system keeps clamping pressure uniform across the jaws, and an integrated anvil surface supports light hammering and shaping without needing to relocate the workpiece.

What we say:

When you look at the Wilton WL1-112, you see a product that brings lots of innovative options and features to make a truly versatile in-field clamping and holding solution. A clamp-on mount gives you up to 1,800 lbs. of clamping force, and it can attach to work surfaces up to 3 inches thick without the need for tools or permanent hardware. You also get a 45-degree swivel base with dual lockdowns, pipe jaws for round stock, a reversible sliding jaw, and an integrated anvil surface for light shaping. All this is backed by Wilton’s Lifetime Warranty.

Price: $49.98

For more information, click here.

WINNER – Adjustable Wrenches

WORKPRO 2-Piece 12-in-1 Universal Adjustable Wrench Set

What they said:

The multi-position dual-head architecture collapses 24 traditional individual wrenches into just a 2-piece set. One wrench flawlessly covers 12 common metric sizes (8mm–19mm), while the other covers 12 SAE sizes (5/16″–3/4″). Replacing the slow, tedious manual adjustment of traditional wrenches, this tool features an innovative push-and-rotate system. Users simply press the color-coded button (Blue for Metric, Red for SAE), spin the plate to the desired size, and release to lock.

Paired with laser-clear, easy-to-read markings, it completely removes the guesswork, allowing mechanics to adapt to different fasteners in seconds and speed up their workflow. Engineered for extreme durability, the wrench bodies are forged from premium Chrome-Molybdenum (Cr-Mo) steel for heavy-duty torque strength, while the rotating plates utilize 65Mn steel for enhanced wear resistance. Fully heat-treated with a black electrophoretic coating, it offers industrial-grade protection against rust and corrosion.

What we say:

For a DIY solution, the WorkPro 2-Piece 12-in-1 Universal Adjustable Wrench Set gives you an innovative solution that potentially replaces the need to keep a full set of SAE and metric wrenches in your home garage. Two compact, dual-head wrenches replace 24 separate tools. We like the easy “push-and-rotate” selector, the color-coded metric and SAE designations, and the clear size markings. The tool bodies use heat-treated Cr-Mo steel while the rotating plates are made from high-carbon and medium-manganese spring steel, coated for corrosion resistance.

Price: $29.99

For more information, click here.