Power tools make our lives easier, but the fact of the matter is that power tools can’t do everything. Hand tools can be made much smaller and have a nearly infinite number of possible designs since there’s no motor to work around. From the incredibly tough to the incredibly intelligent, here are your winners for the PTIA 2018 Hand Tools Awards category.
Winner – Bolt Cutters
Milwaukee 14″ and 24″ Adaptable Bolt Cutters w/POWERMOVE Extendable Arms
When it comes to bolt cutters, the durability of the jaws and bolts are everything to the user. Today’s solutions have blades that commonly wear or pit, impairing cut performance, and their pivot bolts have a tendency to loosen and fall out resulting in premature tool failure. To address these needs, we designed new bolt cutters with forged steel blades that are custom heat-treated for maximum durability and feature a bolt lock that keeps the fasteners tight so the user can stay productive.
What we say:
Milwaukee targets several common issues with bolt cutters on their newest design. It’s all about leverage, though, and our team really appreciated the adjustable handle lengths. Keep the Adaptable Bolt Cutter in its most compact form on those easier tasks and take advantage of the PowerMove handles to give you more leverage on thicker or harder material.
Price: $49.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Chalk Lines
Milwaukee Bold & Fine Line Chalk Reels 48-22-3982
Most current chalk reels lack the durability that’s expected on the job site. Milwaukee saw countless broken chalk reels on job sites—most with broken gears and ripped lines. Users repeatedly replace them, leading to an immense amount of downtime and cost. Chalk reels are so widely used on the job site that they shouldn’t be looked at as a disposable tool. Through a never-before-seen gear system and proprietary clutch, Milwaukee set out to completely change user-expectation for chalk reels, giving them the long-lasting durability needed to tackle all of their projects.
What we say:
Aside from a reinforced housing, the big deal surrounding Milwaukee Chalk Reels is the planetary gear system. This design distributes the force across multiple gear surfaces. Less stress on the gears means longer life for the tool. Finally, Milwaukee developed and integrated a StripGuard Clutch to protect the gears from stripping in the event of a snag. It also helps if you reel it in too fast and don’t quite stop when the hook catches. The end result is a long-lasting chalk line that no longer needs to be considered a quick consumable tool. And for those of you who were irritated by the original hook, Milwaukee has updated it to be more accurate when you’re anchoring to a nail.
Price: $11.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Clamps
Husky Trigger Clamps
This 4-piece, 6-inch medium-duty trigger clamp set offers increased clamping pressure. The new expandable feature allows for 2 clamps to be combined into 1 single clamp. The feature allows the user to add an additional 6 inches of clamping length to their bar clamps when combined. These bar clamps also feature a quick release mechanism for easy changes to the expandable or reversible position. They have 100 lbs. clamping force and the reinforced nylon body makes them durable.
What we say:
Husky took a basic 100-pound set of clamps and priced them at a reasonable $29.97. From there, they took things a little beyond the basics, giving you the ability to combine two clamps and double the clamping width. So, those four 6-inch clamps can also double as a pair of 12-inch clamps—that’s pretty handy!
Price: $29.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Conduit Bender
Milwaukee 1/2” & 3/4” Aluminum Conduit Benders
What they said:
Milwaukee Conduit Benders feature high contrast markings for the best visibility allowing users to easily and accurately make bends. A reinforced hook and pedal provide added durability while a secure double-bolted handle won’t loosen. These Conduit Benders feature the most bending references and a wear-resistant reference chart for easier use. Milwaukee conduit benders will be available in ½” EMT, ¾” EMT, and 1” EMT Heavy Duty Iron models and ½” EMT and ¾” EMT Lightweight Aluminum models.
What we say:
If you’ve ever seen the results of an electrical installation by a Pro who takes a lot of pride in his work, it can be as beautiful as any piece of art hanging in a museum. Creating a precise series of conduit bends takes talent and a quality tool. Milwaukee’s new Aluminum Conduit Benders help on the quality side by reinforcing their hook and pedal while double-bolting the handle to ensure it doesn’t loosen up on you. You’ll go to the job knowing that the tool is ready every time.
Price: $39.99 – $89.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cutting Pliers
Southwire SCP9TPCB Side Cutting Pliers
Contractors are not always gentle with tools and require products with high durability. Most smaller multi-tools can’t withstand the daily beatings. The new Southwire full-size, high-leverage, side cutting plier with all premium features is built for durability. The plier includes a hot rivet for smooth opening action, induction hardened cutting blades, reaming head, and bolt shears. You also get a spanner/bolt grip, cross-hatched teeth, 12 AWG solid wire stripper, fish tape puller, crimper, and new tether-ready comfort grips. Guaranteed to last, this plier is backed by a lifetime warranty.
What we say:
Southwire’s new side cutting pliers take the classic form of linemen’s pliers and adds a host of additional functions. Its eight primary functions are supplemented by Southwire’s new tether-ready comfort grip, ensuring that when you’re working at height, you can easily eliminate the safety risk of dropping tools.
Price: $36.88
For more information, click here.
Winner – Hammers
DeWalt DWHT51381 Framing Hammer
What they said:
Choose the DeWalt DWHT51381 hammer for your next framing job and you will not be disappointed. The technology included in this hammer allows for 35% less “sting”* for reduced arm fatigue during continuous use. Its balanced design also allows for a lower center of gravity creating optimal balance. Its 1-piece steel design was built tough to withstand those harsh environments often found during framing. This hammer also features a side nail puller, making it easy to remove nails.
*Versus 1 pc steel general purpose hammer. Based on vibration analysis “STING” is what users feel.
What we say:
One-piece steel framing hammers offer an outstanding combination of durability and cost-effectiveness. However, they are not the most comfortable hammers to use since steel is so good at transferring vibration. We love that the new DeWalt framing hammer optimized the design to reduce how much of that strike force gets back to your arm.
Price: $31.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Fixed Blade Knives
Milwaukee 48-22-1924 Lineman’s Hawkbill Knife w/STICKWORK 3in1 Ring
The new Lineman’s Hawkbill Knife with STICKWORK 3in1 Ring has a stainless steel blade that is optimized to stay sharper longer. This new addition to Milwaukee knives is ideal for stripping cable. Equipped with the new STICKWORK 3in1 Ring, the knife is also compatible with both shotgun and universal style hot sticks while easily hanging for storage. The oversized ergonomic handle is designed for comfortable use with gloves, and a molded sheath makes it easy to carry and store.
What we say:
Milwaukee has had a lot of success with their knife line, and it looks like they have another winner in their new Lineman’s Hawkbill Knife. The Milwaukee StickWork design sets this apart. It functions as an appendage to let linemen attach the knife to shotgun and universal hot sticks.
Price: $27.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Pocket Knives
Southwire HBKND2 Folding Knife
What they said:
Made with premium D2 steel, Southwire EDGEFORCE Hawkbill knives hold an edge over the competition. The toughness and wear resistance of D2 steel ensures that the cutting edge can withstand prolonged daily use without dulling. Full metal bodies with comfort grip handles provide a secure, comfortable hold. This knife also includes a secure liner lock, reversible belt clips, and a lanyard hole. Southwire knives are backed by a lifetime no hassle warranty.
What we say:
D2 steel provides additional edge retention for knife blades—a nice upgrade over basic and even midgrade steel blends. Southwire’s new hawkbill folding knife takes advantage of the steel, but that’s not the big deal in and of itself. What’s impressive is the price point—you can get your hands on it for less than $25.
Price: $22.48
For more information, click here.
Winner – Utility Knives
Husky Auto-loading retractable utility knife
The Husky Auto-Loading Retractable Utility Knife features a durable aluminum cast frame with cushion grip handle. This knife Includes 3 utility knife blades with convenient blade storage in the handle. The auto-loading blade design provides a quick and easy way to load new blades that are stored in the handle, without the use of any tools.
What we say:
Husky’s Auto-Loading Retractable Utility Knife is a must-have tool for anyone who uses utility knives frequently. A “bolt-action” style mechanism allows you to quickly and easily load a new blade from the handle when it’s time to change out the old one. And, since it’s less than $8, replacing it won’t put a major dent in your wallet when your co-worker decides to make off with yours.
Price: $7.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Levels
Kapro Tools 946M-Smarty Magnetic Cast Handy Level w/Optivision
This high-end Pocket level features Kapro’s revolutionary Optivision Red technology which creates a strong color definition around the bubble. It increases vial visibility by up to 8 times, compared to regular block vial, even in low light or bright conditions. The break-proof solid acrylic vial features gradient lines for 1% and 2% slope which are marked inside the vial so they can’t rub off or fade. The vial also measures with an extraordinary accuracy of < 0.0005 in/in (0.5mm/m). The 946 SMARTY is certified by VPA-the rigorous German testing institute and carries a lifetime warranty
The level’s body is made of heavy duty cast aluminum and rubber overmolding on the sides to help you better grip it and offer protection against drops. The 946 comes with extra strong rare-earth magnets for a secure hold on metal surfaces and piping and may be easily and conveniently carried with its dedicated magnetic belt clip housing.
What we say:
If you haven’t seen a level with Kapro’s Optivision vial design, you need to check one out. The clear liquid and vial seem counter-intuitive, but becomes one of the most visible vials thanks to the red housing that give the bubble an edge that’s easy to see in any light condition.
Price: $22
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- Milwaukee MLXP712 REDSTICK Expandable Levels
Winner – Laser Distance Measures
NWI Azimuth Laser Measurer, Level, and Angle Finder
The NWI Azimuth can do the job of multiple tools. It’s a digital level, line laser, cross laser, Laser Distance Measurer (LDM), and an angle finder. It also has a navigation feature that will take you to where you need to go, and it’s all presented on an easy to read 12-inch screen.
Azimuth can measure the angles you need your miter joints to be, then project it onto the board itself to be cut. It can then take you to the specific point where the boards need to be placed, whether it’s for crown molding or placing cabinets. By projecting a perfectly level line laser you place it exactly where you need it to go. To do jobs like these you could spend around $600. Azimuth can do it all for $249.
The two LDMs built into Azimuth allow for measurements up to 165 feet and are accurate to 1.5mm. With the 2 lasers recording both height and length measurements at the same time, the product will give you the total area of the surface you are working on for quick material estimation without you having to do any math. These lasers can also be used in guide mode. When paired with the design app, Azimuth can give “turn by turn” directions using arrows and a bullseye to the exact points where changes such as a hole or a nail need to be marked.
What we say:
The Azimuth’s laser distance measure functions are at least a generation ahead of most measures currently on the market. Using 2 lasers to get height and length at once could save you time on your estimates. If you’re willing to tackle the learning curve, the design app with step-by-step instructions might take your work to another level. On its own, that’s enough to get our judging team’s attention, but they also add in a cross line laser, angle measurement, and angle projection functions.
Price: $249
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tape Measures
Milwaukee STUD Tape Measures
Milwaukee tape measures set the standard beginning in 2013 by delivering extraordinary durability and the longest life in the industry. This year Milwaukee took durability to the next level by addressing the most common and unsolved user issue: tape tear. Tape measure blades tear on the job site for various reasons including fast retraction, whipping, and job site contaminants. STUD was designed from the ground up to solve the issue of tape tear through the first ever technology that protects the blade from ripping and wearing. With this new technology, they also increased the abrasion resistance by 10X over what they currently offer.
What we say:
Milwaukee tape measures already have a reputation for being among the toughest available, so what’s left to work on? Their project team turned their collective attention to the blade—not the measurement wear, but the durability of the blade itself. With their EXO360 design, stepping on the blade, rolling over it, whipping it, or other job site abuses will have to work a lot harder to tear this blade.
Price: $19.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Multi-tools
Klein 44216 Electrician’s Hybrid Plier Multi-Tool
Tradespeople are constantly facing diverse challenges when traveling to and from the job site. To make sure professionals have everything they need, Klein Tools developed the perfect everyday carry tool, the Electrician’s Hybrid Plier Multi-Tool. This all-in-one tool incorporates seven of the most-used functions, allowing tradespeople to save time switching between tools and increasing efficiency while on the job.
Without even opening the tool, tradespeople can easily access the 3-inch (76 mm) full-sized, drop point knife, which has a liner lock to keep the knife blade secure for added safety on the job. They can also use both the slotted and Phillips screwdrivers that tuck neatly in the durable aluminum handle. Tradespeople can also find a metal splinter remover stored in the handle.
Once the Electrician’s Hybrid Plier Multi-Tool is opened, the seven-in-one tool has a wide, knurled hybrid plier head to easily grab and twist wires with ease. The plier also includes heavy-duty wire cutting blades for reliable, consistent wire cuts and three stripping holes for use on both 12-16 AWG stranded wire and 10-14 AWG solid wire.
What we say:
Multi-tools are great to carry for the DIYer and some Pros, but so few are purpose-built to cover the needs of a specific trade. Klein decided enough was enough and created a model for electricians. By combining 7 of the most common functions an electrician needs from day to day, they give you everything you need—and nothing you don’t. That’s a multi-tool electricians can get behind.
Price: $56
For more information, click here.
Winner – Multi-Bit Drivers
Southwire SD2N1AL Adjustable Length Screwdriver
What they said:
The adjustable length mechanism of the Southwire SD2N1AL allows for adjustment from 4 to 8 inches. It eliminates the need to carry multiple length drivers with the same bit type. The 2-in-1 includes #2 Philips & 1/4″ Slotted tips. Southwire screwdrivers are backed by a lifetime no hassle warranty.
What we say:
#2 Phillips and slotted screws are the most common, and it’s why nearly every screwdriver set includes a couple of each. Save space in your tool bag with Southwire’s new Adjustable Length Screwdriver. With a #2 Phillips on one end and a 1/4″ slotted on the other, you can adjust the length from 4″ – 8″, effectively combining several screwdrivers into one.
Price: $18
For more information, click here.
Winner – Nut Drivers
Klein 32807 MAG 7-in-1 Nut Driver
Tradespeople are constantly hauling multiple tools and other items to job sites, which can be inconvenient as they must consistently switch between different tools. In order to minimize this interruption and increase efficiency between tasks, Klein Tools is continually looking to create tools that have the ability to handle multiple jobs. The 7-in-1 Nut Driver is one of these tools.
This heavy-duty, innovative multi-nut driver delivers more power for the tough jobs tradespeople face every day. The multi-bit driver includes 1/4″, 5/16″, 11/32″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″ and 9/16″ sizes for convenience while on the job as well as color-coded bands for easy identification.
Strong, rare earth magnets and a spring coil securely hold nuts and bolts in place. The cushion-grip handle provides greater torque and all-day comfort, and the hollow shaft helps drive nuts deep onto bolts or threaded rod.
What we say:
Klein takes your 7-piece nut driver set and packs it into just one tool—with some added bonuses. Rare earth magnets in 5 of the sizes hold nuts and bolts while a spring coil tackles the task on the other two. What also sets the Klein 7-in-1 Nut Driver apart are the hollow shafts on 5 of the sizes, allowing you to use the same tool instead of reaching for a deep socket on longer bolts.
Price: $44.50
For more information, click here.
Winner – Pliers
Irwin VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking Pliers with Reduced Hand Span
What they said:
IRWIN VISE-GRIP introduces the next generation of Fast Release Locking Pliers. Featuring patented, first-to-market innovation, this new design reduces hand span by 20% in the open position (compared to the previous generation). This helps provide more control and less strain during repeated use. The reduced hand span feature can be found on all 10″ VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking Pliers and 11″ VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking C-Clamps. Furthermore, bi-material comfort grips have been removed from the top handle, enabling the product to be used in metal-working and welding applications.
Stamped-in grooves have also been added to the lower lever, providing additional gripping surface for the end user’s hand. This latest generation of Fast Release Locking pliers is the only plier in the market offering this reduced hand span, continuing IRWIN VISE-GRIP’s legacy for high performance, quality, and innovation.
What we say:
One of the complaints about locking pliers involves the snapback you have to endure when releasing them. Irwin’s Fast Release system alleviates the issue with a one-handed, triggerless release. Not only does it help prevent injury to your hand, it’s twice as easy to handle and release, reducing hand fatigue over a long day.
Price: $13.98-$24.98
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Ratchets
Milwaukee Ratchet & Socket Sets
Milwaukee Tool has once again delivered innovation to a core category of tools aimed at the professional trades with the introduction of new Ratchet & Socket Sets engineered for better access in tight spaces and maximum strength. Each of the new sets features a slim profile 90-tooth 4º ratchet and wrench-compatible sockets uniquely designed with four parallel flats to deter rolling.
The new ratchets also have a slim profile and flush directional lever which allows them to conveniently access the most hard-to-reach applications. All Ratchet & Socket Sets are constructed with an all-chrome finish making them easier to clean and giving them a sleeker look. Because socket sizes can often be hard to see, labels are engraved on two of the flats to enable easier identification and readability from multiple angles. All are available in both SAE and metric. For added convenience, each kit comes in a carrying case for ultimate portability. All sets also include accessories such as 3” and 6” extensions so users have everything they need to get the job done.
What we say:
Milwaukee upgrades the standard ratchet by moving from a 72-tooth to a 90-tooth count design. That gives you a shorter arc swing, but it’s access that sets these apart. Milwaukee’s use a slim handle and keeping the directional level flush with the ratchet head give just a little more access into tight spaces – and when it comes to engine work, that makes a difference.
Price: $69.99-$179.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Saws
Klein 31737 Folding Jab Saw
Knowing that jab saws continuously tear and rip tool bags, Klein Tools designed an innovative Folding Jab Saw so tradespeople can protect themselves and their equipment. This Folding Jab Saw has a durable, carbon steel blade that is as sturdy as a fixed blade saw. It also features triple ground teeth that can cut on both push and pull strokes for faster cutting through drywall, wallboard, plywood, plastic, and other construction materials. As an added convenience, the Folding Jab Saw includes a lockback mechanism to secure the blade while fully open but also at 125-degrees for work in those hard-to-reach places.
The tool is also designed with a tradesperson’s comfort in mind, offering a non-slip grip handle and a cushioned handle-end for easier palming of the saw. Tradespeople can also use the lanyard hole for tethering. The Folding Jab Saw folds smartly into the comfort-grip handle to ensure safety and help prevent damage to your other tools or the tool bag itself.
What we say:
Klein tackles several obstacles with their new Folding Jab Saw. They give it two locking positions – 180° for standard cutting and 125° for when you need to reach awkward areas or don’t have enough room for the full length. It has aggressive cutting teeth and an excellent piercing tip that makes it perfect for cutting through drywall, plywood, and other materials. By making it a folding saw, those excellent cutting characteristics can work on your installation and not on putting a hole in your tool bag.
Price: $17.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Specialty Hand Tools
Bostitch BTFAFOOTG2: Rolling Base Flooring Attachment
The BTFAFOOTG2-Rolling Base Flooring Attachment lets you move quickly through flooring installations without lifting the tool between fastenings. It features tool-free depth adjustment for easy transition between flooring thicknesses, from 1/2″ -3/4″. This attachment works with all Bostitch mallet-actuated flooring tools, including the MIIIFN, MIIIFS, BTFP12569, and BTFP12570. The tool is built for everyday use with long-life components for durability and reliability. The non-marring wheels roll smoothly across all types of flooring materials and finishes.
What we say:
Bostitch makes a smart addition your Bostitch mallet-actuated flooring nailers with their Rolling Base Attachment. The concept is easy. You slip it on your flooring nailer and slide it across the floor rather than picking it up after every shot and repositioning it. Bostitch gives you a design that won’t mar the flooring surface and keeps your installation rolling along!
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Squares
Empire Laser-Etched Framing Square
The Empire e1190 True Blue Laser Etched Framing Square features ARC-SCRIBE, a new-to-world innovation that is the ideal solution for marking arcs for windows, doors and hallway arches. The e1190 also features permanent laser etched markings that give superior readability in any light condition. The square also includes graduation marks at 1/8”, 1/10”, 1/12”, and 1/16” as well as convenient conversion tables. Finally, the e1190 is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
What we say:
A simple but brilliant addition to Empire’s Laser-Etched Framing Square is their new Arc-Scribe feature. By securing the pivot point at the 0″ mark near the corner, you can use the holes to scribe perfect 14″, 15″, 16″, 17″ or 18″ radii for a full circle or any portion of an arch that you’re designing.
Price: $14.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Stud Finders
DeWalt DW0100 Stud Finder
Eliminate the guesswork with this new Stud Finder that has a detection depth of 3/4 in. for wood and metal. While traditional stud sensors locate the edge of the stud, this one locates the center for a more efficient read, even when held at an angle. The sensor is constantly calibrating to save time during use. Once the stud is located, an audible alert and directional LED arrows clearly notify the user. Plus, you can easily mark the center of the stud with the center marking channel.
What we say:
For just $17.99, DeWalt’s DW0100 Stud Finder gives you the ability to locate the center of a stud rather than just the edge. Its auto-calibration is always running and the fact that it works just as well at an angle sets it apart from its peers. It’s inexpensive enough for DIYers with all the functions a Pro needs before turning to a wall scanner.
Price: $17.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wrenches
Diamondback Safety Tools Flange Wrench
The flange wrench by Diamondback Safety Tools makes tightening threaded flanges a breeze. The newly designed wrench works nearly 2.5 times faster than current methods used in the field. Tightening flanges typically takes four items: two bolts, a piece of pipe, and a level. With the Diamondback Safety Tools flange wrench, the hassle of carrying multiple tools, changing tools, and loosening or retightening is taken care of.
For safety, this flange wrench also has two pins secured in the solid steel frame of the wrench with a spring plunger. This allows the wrench to adjust for different size flanges and then lock the bolts into place—allowing two-holing without the hassle of bringing more tools to the job than needed. This solid design fits all flanges from 1”-4” with dual sized pins (both 1/2” for smaller flanges and 5/8” for larger flanges).
What we say:
Diamondback Safety Tools targets safety and increases efficiency with their Flange Wrench. It’s an adjustable model to fit 1″ – 4″ flanges and it locks the bolts in place so there’s no chance of slipping. They also put a level on board if you’re using the two hole method to line the flanges up. If you’re still using the bolt and pipe method, Diamondback offers a huge upgrade worth your consideration.
Price: $249.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Adjustable Wrenches
Proferred 8″ Ratcheting Adjustable Wrench T09002
The Proferred 8″ ratcheting wrench combines ratcheting and adjustability. The efficient ratcheting function offers greater efficiency compared to conventional wrenches. Also, the anti-slip design uses a comfort grip with TPR material to ensure a strong grip. An added benefit is that the handle grip prevents slippage.
What we say:
We’ve been impressed with the quality of Proferred’s hand tools so far, and they have another winner for 2018. Their 8″ Ratcheting Adjustable Wrench pretty much says it all in the name. With a ratcheting mechanism, it eliminates the need to pull your wrench off the bolt and re-align it before making the next part of your turn. It’s going to boost your productivity significantly.
Price: $17.84
For more information, click here.
Winner – Pipe Wrenches
Milwaukee Cheater Adaptable Pipe Wrench 48-22-7314
There’s no category of tool that’s more core to the plumber’s arsenal than the pipe wrench. It might come as a surprise that this product space has largely been untouched when it comes to thoughtful innovation. This lack of innovation in the market has resulted in pipe wrenches that fail to satisfy an array of user needs—from lack of versatility and grip, to insufficient leverage and uncomfortable handles. Through many discussions with users and listening to their needs, Milwaukee wanted to provide a solution that was dramatically disruptive to this space. The result is a fully-redesigned pipe wrench that’s more efficient than ever before.
What we say:
Milwaukee calls it The Cheater, an official name to a common nickname given to giving pipe wrenches more leverage. We really don’t see how being smarter is cheating. What’s the solution when your pipe wrench is too long? Grab one with a shorter handle. But then the jaws are too narrow…and the whole job goes downhill from there. The Milwaukee Cheater takes the capacity of an 18” pipe wrench and gives a shorter handle option for tight spaces and a longer handle option for extra leverage. The result is one pipe wrench to handle what used to take three tools to cover.
Price: $99.99
For more information, click here.