The right blade, bit, or saw can increase efficiency, save money, or make a job take a lot less time. It can take an average tool and give you the ability to produce outstanding results. On the other hand, putting the wrong accessory in a tool can cost you in both time and materials. From bits and blades to guides and extenders, here are your winners for the PTIA 2020 Accessories Awards!
Winner – Circular Saw Blades
Spyder Tarantula DEMO Blade for Circular Saws
What they said:
This 7 ¼-inch, 24-tooth demolition blade is a workhorse designed to take abuse and keep cutting, even if it strikes hidden nails and other embedded materials. It is over-engineered to last 10 times longer than standard blades when cutting through nail-embedded wood.
Several premium features contribute to the long life and durability of the Spyder DEMO Blade. They include:
Demo Drive Tooth Bevel – This specialized tooth configuration is optimized to grind through hidden nails, screws, staples, flashing, and other metal materials that may be embedded in lumber.
NiCo Carbide Teeth – The carbide teeth on Spyder’s circular saw blades are made from a proprietary blend of nickel and cobalt, creating a more durable and long-lived alloy than those found on other carbide blades.
Interfused Anti-Friction Coating – A permanently bonded, black anti-friction coating reduces heat and buildup, extending the life of the blade and improving the quality of the cut.
Polymer-Filled Stabilization Vents – These vents reduce noise, vibration, and user fatigue.
What we say:
Carbide-tipped circular saw blades have been around for a while, but Spyder is showing us what the advantages of specific nickel and cobalt levels in the steel blend can do for those teeth. Competing in the premium blade space, Spyder Tarantula demo blades stand out thanks to their longer life and cutting performance.
Price: $14.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Metal/Chop Saw Blades
DEWALT DWAFV8901 9in FlexVolt Diamond Cutting Wheel Metal
What they said:
The 9in FlexVolt Diamond Cutting Wheel Metal has an advanced diamond technology that delivers long life in metal cutting applications. High quality steel core designed to provide straight cuts and consistent cutting depth throughout the life of the blade. Effectively cuts a wide variety of materials including Steel, Ductile Pipe, Rebar, Stainless Steel, Non-Ferrous Metals, Fiberglass, Rubber, and PVC. It is an optimized design for FLEXVOLT 9IN Cutoff Saw (DCS690), for long runtime and productivity on the jobsite.
What we say:
DeWalt’s FlexVolt 9-inch diamond cutting wheel dials in what you need for cordless power cutting—solid performance and runtime. It’s a true multi-material blade that’s ready to work on the toughest materials you need your FlexVolt 9-inch cut-off saw to tackle.
Price: $94
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cleaning Accessories
RotoScrub Multi-Purpose Scrub Brush
What they said:
RotoScrub’s Multi-Purpose Scrub Brush offers 5X the scrubbing power of manual labor. Its durable and flexible bristles have unmatched versatility, capable of cleaning any hard surface from glass to asphalt. RotoScrub is fun to use, especially on extremely dirty projects. Dirt, grit, and grime are blasted away by the non-scratch nylon material.
What we say:
We’ve seen people lifehack their way into using drills for cleaning products and RotoScrub has made a purpose-built solution to make it easy. Simply chuck up the shaft in your favorite drill and go to town. There are plenty of ways to use the scrub brush. One of our favorites is cleaning the shower and bathroom tile and we like a 12V drill for a lightweight drive source.
Price: $9.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cutting & Routing
Rockler 55010 Router Bit Center/Depth Gauge
What they said:
When setting up your router table or freehand router, there are two primary adjustments to make: the fence distance and the bit height. Our Center/Depth Gauge makes setting both easy and accurate. Just set the hairline indicator for the distance you need from the fence to the center of the bit, hook it onto the bit shank, then slide the fence over until it touches the gauge. To use it as a height gauge, simply set it at your bit height, lay the foot flat on the table, and raise the bit until it touches the arm. Half-round notches let you register the gauge to the center of 1/4” and 1/2” shank router bits. Alternatively, you can use the ”depth” portion to measure to the edge of the cutter, rather than the middle of the shank.
What we say:
When your woodworking calls for precision (and that’s most of the time), Rockler’s Router Bit Center/Depth Gauge makes getting the perfect width easy. Aligning to the center of the bit, there’s no guesswork as to how far you need to compensate from your measurement. For veterans, it’s a timesaver and for newbies, it sends a lot less material to the scrap pile.
Price: $19.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jigsaw Blades
Hart HACJ01 10 pc. Jigsaw Blade Set
What they said:
The 10pc. Jigsaw Blade Set features an assortment of wood, metal, and PVC cutting jigsaw blades. These blades have a universal shank for compatibility with ALL brands of jigsaws. This set is a staple for any DIYer to have on hand because of its versatility. The assortment comes with 6, 10, and 14 TPI high carbon steel blades and 10, 18, and 24 TPI bi-metal cutting blades. Lower TPI blades are best for making fast and aggressive cuts on wood. Higher TPI blades are best for making smooth and clean cuts on metal. Each blade also has teeth that were specifically tailored to the intended use of the blade itself. This set also comes with a case for easy storage and organization for the user.
What we say:
Hart’s 10-piece jigsaw blade set is a great way for DIYers and even new pros to learn the art of jigsawing and discover their own personal style. For around $10, it’s a high-value, low-cost way to get started. It also covers a multitude of applications—from wood-cutting to metal.
Price: $10.24
For more information, click here.
Winner – Multi-Tool Blades
Imperial Blades IBSLT362 Carbide Extreme Storm Titanium Metal Blade
What they said:
Imperial Blades’ Starlock 1-3/8″ Carbide Extreme Storm Titanium Metal Blade is an extreme metal-cutting oscillating blade composed of heavy-duty bi-metal (BiM) combined with Storm Titanium coating for the longest life and best performance. This is the first carbide Starlock offering from Imperial Blades and it utilizes the carbide embedded teeth to tackle the toughest applications and lasts up to 30X more cuts than standard Imperial bi-metal blades. Recommended applications include: Thick Metal, Bolts, Screws, Copper Pipe, Wood & Nails, and more. Popular projects include deck maintenance, framing, hard material flooring, automotive or plumbing applications, and porous stonework. Compatible with Starlock multi-tools: Bosch and Fein. Also fits non-Starlock multi-tools: Milwaukee, Ridgid, Makita, Rockwell, and more!
What we say:
Carbide takes things up several notches when it comes to cutting tough materials. Imperial Blades recognizes the need to provide that kind of cutting performance for oscillating multi-tools that make some of the most awkward cuts other tools can’t. Not content to just add carbide teeth, Imperial Blades also include a titanium coating that helps dissipate heat and improves the overall life of each blade.
Price: $19.95
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Reciprocating Saw Blades
Spyder Products Black Series Bi-Metal Reciprocating Saw Blade Kit
What they said:
The new bi-metal reciprocating saw blades — which Spyder calls the Black Series to distinguish them from the company’s double-sided reciprocating saw blades that are yellow in color — is made from a shatter- and heat-resistant alloy blend. These high-speed steel blades are made from 8% cobalt for added durability and heat resistance.
The blades are available in several tooth pitches and lengths for cutting wood, nail-embedded wood, sheet metal, metal, and many other materials. The 14-piece kit includes:
- Four 6-inch, 18-TPI blades for thin metal
- Three 6-inch, 6-TPI blades for wood and wood with nails
- Two 6-inch, 10-14 TPI blades for demo and metal
- Two 8-inch, 14-TPI blades for metal
- One 8-inch, 10-14 TPI blades for demo and metal
- Two 9-inch, 6-TPI blades for wood and wood with nails
- A durable, convenient storage tube that holes all 14 blades
Spyder’s new Black Series bi-metal reciprocating saw blades are made in the U.S.A. with no global materials.
What we say:
Carbide is certainly what’s creating a lot of buzz in the blade industry, but don’t count out bi-metal just yet. It’s a more affordable solution on a per-blade cost. Knowing this, Spyder continues innovating in the category. Cobalt moves to the center of the conversation again. This time, as an 8% addition to the Black Series’ high-speed steel blend used in the Black Series blade and its teeth. The cobalt adds durability and heat resistance. This is incredibly important when cutting metal. With this innovative accessory, you get a longer-life blade that doesn’t break the bank.
Price: $29.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Grinder Cutting Wheels
Hart HACG02 4-1/2″ Metal Cutting Wheel
What they said:
Hart’s 4-1/2” metal cutting wheel is ideal for aggressive cuts on hard and soft metals. This wheel is also compatible with any 4-1/2” angle grinder with a 7/8” arbor. With a thickness of 0.045” and a MAX RPM of 13,500, this top-selling cutting accessory will help you complete your job with ease.
What we say:
Get the cutting performance you need without the premium price with Hart’s 4-1/2-inch metal cutting wheel. This Type 1 wheel is a great fit to pair with your Hart 20V cordless angle grinder or any 7/8-inch arbor grinder you might have.
Price: $1.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Metal Drill Bits
DEWALT Titanium Hex Shank Drill Bit (DD5116 & DD5128)
What they said:
DEWALT Titanium Hex Shank Drill bits were developed to withstand the use with the modern high torque impact drivers. The taper core design prevents breakage while the Titanium coating contributes to extended life. It has an exclusive Pilot Point tip design on diameters higher than 3/16” that reduces bit walk during hole start and increases drilling speed.
What we say:
As more pros and DIYers adopt impact drivers as primary tools, they’re exposing some of the issues with using standard hex shank drill bits. DeWalt attacks two of the key issues. With a tapered core, it resists breaking that comes with the violence of constant impacts. When drilling using impact drivers, bits also tend to walk more. DeWalt’s Pilot Point bit tip helps you keep the bit on target by counteracting that extra wobble.
Price: $$3.98 to $39.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Driver Bit Holders/Extenders
DEWALT Premium Magnetic Bit Tip Holders DWA3HLDFT / DWA6HLDFT / DWA12HLDFT
What they said:
DEWALT IMPACT READY Locking Bit Holders provide users exactly what they need when fastening or drilling with hex-shank accessories. The locking mechanism securely keeps the accessory in place during use and the quick-change features make it easy to change accessories on the job. Robust magnetism provides optimal fastener retention for screwdriving applications and the durable, uniquely designed locking mechanism allows users to not only drive with screwdriving bits but accept all hex-shank accessories. The slim 11mm profile allows users to complete more applications than bulkier, competitive designs like countersinking screws in brackets or when installing fasteners in close quarters.
What we say:
Magnetic bit holders are great, but even those with stronger magnets can leave bits behind. The DeWalt Premium Magnetic Bit Tip Holder uses an innovative locking mechanism that others don’t have. To make it work, just slip a bit in and slide the lock upward to secure it. In a spot that you’re not worried about high bit security? Just leave it in the unlocked position and the magnet holds all by itself.
Price: $8.98 to $14.98
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Specialty Driver Bits
DEWALT DWADEND-2 Double-Ended Cleanable Nut Drivers
What they said:
DEWALT Impact Ready Double Ended / Detachable Nut Drivers offer exceptional performance and versatility for extreme torque applications. The industrial-strength magnet offers maximum fastener retention, and the advanced hardening process means they can withstand the power of an impact driver. The detachable sockets allow for easy cleaning of metal shavings from the magnet. The sockets feature 2 sizes in 1 for users to easily change sizes for a variety of applications. Sockets are available in 1/4″ and 5/16″, as well as 3/8″ and 7/16″.
What we say:
Ever try cleaning metal chips out of a magnetic accessory? It’s a pain! With nut drivers being more shallow by nature, the build-up has a greater effect on the bit’s ability to stay engaged with the nut or bolt. DeWalt makes a beautifully simple solution by creating detachable sockets. This gives you direct access to the magnet, letting you clean it out.
Price: $14.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Drill/Driver Attachments
Rockler Companies 63057 Portable Drill Guide with Vise
What they said:
Get the precision of a drill press with the portability of a hand drill. Self-Centering Vise is perfect for pen blanks! Unlike similar guides, ours drills at any angle from 0° to 60° using the easy-to-read protractor scale. The depth stop lets you drill to the same depth again and again, nice for repetitive tasks like shelf pins. Mounting holes on the base accept shop-made jigs, while the V-notches let you center holes in dowels and other round stock.
What we say:
Rockler’s Portable Drill Guide is a big step up from other drill guides we’ve seen. We love the robust build quality. When you’re trying to be precise in your drilling, you need a stable platform. Many guides are just too flimsy. Rockler’s more substantial build quality helps take care of that. Our judges also like the smooth bearing operation in the chuck, the extended 60° angle capacity, and that the self-centering drill vise is included with the kit.
Price: $219.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Abrasives
Hart HACW04 6 PC. Wire Wheel Brush Set
What they said:
The 6pc Wire Wheel Brush Set provides up to 40% faster material removal than other wire wheel brushes on the market. This assortment provides users with a variety of brushes that they would need to get multiple jobs done. Each wire wheel brush has a ¼” shank for quick and easy changes in a drill or impact driver. This set is great for use on all different types of projects.
What we say:
Wire wheels are a must-have accessory for a variety of material removal. Hart puts a versatile set in your hands for less than $8. It’s not just a cheap set made as an afterthought, though. 1/4-inch hex shanks fit into both impact drivers and 1/4-inch hex drill drivers. They remove material faster than some of those bargain-bin options.
Price: $7.63
For more information, click here.
Winner – Concrete/Masonry Hole Saws
LENOX Multi-Material Carbide Tipped Hole Saws
What they said:
LENOX Multi-Material Carbide Tipped Hole Saws allow for fast, rough-in drilling in clean wood, nail embedded wood, concrete block, fiber cement, and brick. The versatile design of the product features carbide teeth that are optimized to cut through a variety of materials including Nail Embedded Wood, Concrete Block, Fiber Cement, and Brick. For wood rough-in applications the saw is UP TO 6X FASTER* vs. bi-metal hole saws and RIPS THROUGH NAILS** because of the added durability of the carbide cutting edge that helps to prevent tooth loss when hitting nails or drilling through abrasive materials. A tall body easily drills through 2” dimensional lumber with up to 3/4″ sheathing attached in one pass while deep body slots allow for easy plug removal.
*vs. LENOX Bi-metal hole saw cutting 2″ thick pressure-treated wood
**Based on 2-9/16” hole saw cutting nail embedded wood
What we say:
When you need to drill a hole in concrete or masonry, you typically grab a core drill. We’ve even seen grinders modified to act as a core drill. But what if you could just use a hole saw? Lenox had the vision and carbide provided the way. Their Multi-Material Carbide Tipped Hole Saws can tackle wood, nail embedded wood, and yes, even concrete and masonry. The beefy teeth make that solid brick melt away and give you the access you need.
Price: $5.00 to $292.00 (kit)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Metal Hole Saws
DEWALT Bi-Metal Hole Saws
What they said:
DEWALT Bi-Metal Hole Saws offer innovative patented tooth forms that optimize chip removal for efficient drilling and Up to 50% Longer Life*. A large, continuous slot provides leverage for easy plug ejection and removal while a High-Speed Steel cutting edge effectively drills through wood, metal, and plastic. Lastly, a deep hole saw design allows for cutting 2” dimensional lumber in one pass.
*vs prior generation DEWALT Bi-Metal Hole Saws cutting black pipe
What we say:
With carbide taking up most of the spotlight, there’s still room to celebrate the value and efficiencies of bi-metal hole saws. DeWalt’s bi-metal hole saws have a double tooth design and a longer high-speed steel height that result in better durability and life. They also have a sharper tooth geometry that helps them dig in and remove material more quickly.
Price: $$11.53 to $223.28 (Kit)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wood Hole Saws
Milwaukee Tool Big Hawg w/Carbide Teeth
What they said:
Since BIG HAWG was first introduced in 2008, they have been the highest-performing hole cutting solutions on the market due to their speed and longevity in rough-in wood applications. Now we’re setting the bar for hole saw performance even higher by combining our unique tooth design with our own carbide technology. By optimizing the widely popular BIG HAWG hole cutters with advanced carbide technology, we’re able to make the best rough in-hole saws even better – giving them unparalleled versatility and life in wood, wood with nails and abrasive materials.
What we say:
When we first saw Milwaukee’s Big Hawg Hole Saws, they looked like most any other carbide-tipped hole saw made for wood cutting. Closer examination reveals much larger carbide teeth. These not only stand up to nails but also roofing and masonry. They even optimized the pilot bit for drilling through multiple materials. The design may look like a wood hole saw, but the BIG HAWG makes holes where others can’t.
Price: $30.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Step Bits
Milwaukee Tool Shockwave Impact Duty Step Bits
What they said:
Milwaukee’s SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty Step Bits are engineered to deliver the most durable and fastest cutting step bits in the market. Made in the USA, these bits have best-in-class performance in impact drivers and the versatility to be used in drills. The ¼” hex shank and optimized SHOCKZONE provide the industry’s most durable shank, helping to eliminate premature shank failure. The Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating delivers 5x longer life, while the Rapid Strike tip and dual spiral flute produce 2x faster holes.
What we say:
Milwaukee’s step bits get some durability help from a titanium-nitride coating. Claiming to be the fastest-cutting step bits available, Milwaukee also gives them a 1/4-inch hex shank. This lets you slap the step bit in your impact driver, and our resident electrician prefers it that way. Even better? These step bits are Made in the USA.
Price: $85
For more information, click here.
Winner – Impact-Rated Driver Bits
Makita Impact XPS
What they said:
Meet the new category leader: Makita Impact XPS is a premier line of bits and fastening accessories designed for maximum performance. Impact XPS includes insert bits, bit holders, power bits, extensions, magnetic nutsetters, sockets, and socket adapters. These premium Impact XPS Insert and Power Bits last up to 90x longer than standard bits. Expertly engineered with exact fitment and a unique steel blend, Impact XPS bits are the ideal bit collection. (69)
What we say:
Makita makes their Impact XPS bits from a carbon alloy steel blend. It allows some flex while still delivering the fastening force of your impact driver. The impacting force gets distributed through the Pulse Torsion Rings in the thinner center. On the fastener contact end, the tip maintains strength to withstand shearing. It also has a machined cut to fit fasteners perfectly. The result is a line of accessories that last up to 90 times longer than standard bits.
Price: Kits starting at $19.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Driver Bits
Crescent Tools AUGSET-30 30-Piece u-GUARD alphaCASE Set
What they said:
The Crescent APEX u-GUARD series of non-marring covered tools gives protection and control for the most demanding jobsites. These patented tools allow the user to hold the drive tool directly while it spins freely inside the cover, increasing fastening control and significantly reducing contact from the rotating tool. It protects surrounding surfaces from scratching while the cover’s thin wall maintains accessibility in tight spaces.
“It’s rare to have a tool that’s truly unique in the market, but there’s nothing else out there like it right now,” said Michael Preus, Global Director of Marketing for Crescent APEX. “The u-GUARD product line takes what we’ve learned as an innovative leader in assembly and production tools through our APEX brand and applies it in a whole new way for the industrial construction market.”
The patented technology behind u-GUARD non-marring covered tools has been proven for more than 10 years in automotive assembly plants where it is required by many of the major automotive brands such as GM, BMW, Mercedes, and Ford. This is the first time that this protection is available to the construction and automotive repair industries.
What we say:
When you’re wrapping up finish work like door hardware or putting those last bolts in place on a show Harley, any little rub against material mars an otherwise perfect finish. Maybe your guys get away with it and you never know. Your discerning clients are going to call you back, however. It costs more than just time, and the replacement parts also come off of your profit margin.
That where Crescent Apex u-Guard accessories come into play. They start with a quality bit and wrap a thermo-plastic urethane cover around the outside. It’s not just a no-mar coating, however. The cover lets your bit spin freely within. When it comes into contact with other material, it provides a soft, rubberized cushion that prevents damage while the bit continues working.
Price: $29.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Concrete/Masonry Bits
DEWALT SDS Plus Rebar Cutters
What they said:
DEWALT SDS Plus Rebar Cutters feature carbide tip tooth geometry that is optimized to easily drill through rebar. The easy to use and versatile bit, which is available in 3/8” up to 1” diameters, has a durable head design that allows users to drill in rotary or hammer modes.
What we say:
Rebar can be the death of your expensive SDS-Plus rotary hammer bits and even cause painful bind-ups. Rather than trying to muscle through, switch over to DeWalt’s SDS-Plus rebar cutters. You can use them in both rotary and hammer modes and the carbide tooth geometry eats up rebar for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Price: $46.46 to $97.04
For more information, click here.
Winner – General Adhesives
DAP Tank Bond Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy
What they said:
DAP Tank Bond is a complete line of hard-working adhesives ideal for an extensive list of professional and DIY applications. The Tank Bond family of products from DAP includes Tank Bond Thread Stopper, Tank Bond Liquid Grip, Tank Bond Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy, Tank Bond Clear Epoxy, and Tank Bond Threadlockers. Combined these adhesive products are strong enough to tackle repairs ranging from tools, home products, and outdoor maintenance to boats, bicycles, automotive, motorcycles, and even musical instruments.
•Tank Bond Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy – Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy delivers military-grade adhesive technology, offering superior bond strength and impact resistance. Formulated to be four times tougher than typical epoxies, it’s the ideal solution for repairing items that undergo heavy force or vibrations, such as lawnmowers, bikes, exercise equipment, and power tools – and can even be used on minor automotive repairs such as fixing cracked bumpers.
What we say:
The entire DAP Tank Bond line is solid, but it the Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy got the most attention from our judges. It’s a great field-ready solution you can keep in your truck that requires no surface prep. We’re particularly encouraged by its ability to hold on tools and equipment that experience more vibration.
Price: $6.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tape
Shurtape 242703 T-Rex Brute Force Tape
What they said:
T-Rex Brute Force high-performance duct tape is a bold next step in tape technology. Built with Forge-Link Technology, an extreme tensile strength cloth that is too tough to tear by hand, T-Rex Brute Force can hold 700+ pounds of weight. That’s enough hold power to pull a car! A major upgrade from general duct tape, T-Rex Brute Force high tack, double-thick adhesive sticks to rougher and dirtier surfaces and withstands severe pressure, it also features a durable waterproof backing, so you can secure, fasten or hold all sorts of materials for any project, on any jobsite. Used for a wide range of home improvement, construction, and outdoor projects or activities, Brute Force is the duct tape you can depend on to hold true and get the job done.
Duct Tape is a fix…. Brute Force is an engineering solution!
What we say:
Yeah, so we actually wrapped T-Rex Brute Force around Pro Tool Reviews Managing Editor and his F-150 and watched him pull it down the road. This is some crazy-strong tape! It’s so strong, you can’t tear it—you have to cut it with a blade. Duct tape is still great for ductwork, but when you want pure strength, that’s when you turn to T-Rex Brute Force tape.
Price: $14.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Table Saw Accessories
Rockler Precision Miter Gauge and Miter Gauge Fence
What they said:
Overall, the Rockler Precision Miter Gauge is designed to be easy to use. Key differences include:
- Larger scale markings that are easy to read
- Machined positive stops for the most commonly used angles
- Easy to grip knobs for attaching sub-fence
- Larger, more ergonomic handle for a secure grip
- A hole to hang the bar on a pegboard when not in use
The Rockler Miter Gauge Fence extends up to 24” long to give you plenty of reference surface for perfect miters and 90° cuts. A sacrificial fence face is included to give you zero-clearance backup support for cutting dados and other joinery cuts. For perfect repeatability, a flip-down stop is also provided. Precision extruded aluminum is used for the body of the fence, ensuring accuracy without unnecessary weight. Rear-facing T-slot for easy, tool-free mounting to the Rockler Precision Miter Gauge
What we say:
Rockler nailed a couple of go-to table saw accessories that together, take your woodworking to the next level. The Precision Miter Gauge combines great visibility with spring-loaded positive stops. It also gives you the ability to easily lock down at uncommon angles and is built better than most stock miter gauges. Finally, you can use it on most router tables and band saws. Adding the Miter Gauge Fence gives you an adjustable aluminum construction with an MDF sacrificial face and flip down stop for repeat cuts. The combination of the two makes a genuinely useful and affordable upgrade to your table saw.
Price: $99.99 and $49.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Anchors
Hilti North America (HDA-T) “Smart” Anchors with Tracefast Technology
What they said:
Documenting every anchor, screw, and bolt installed by hand can be time consuming and inefficient. Hilti’s exclusive Tracefast technology provides specifiers and contractors with an easy-to-use, more productive solution. A data matrix code (DMC) makes every fastener uniquely identifiable and traceable. Simply use the Hilti Connect App, scan the code with your smartphone, and view installed fastener details. Tracefast leverages IoT and provides a new level of control and digital access to relevant setting instructions, training, and inspection documents and certifications.
- Combines the advantages of a post-installed mechanical anchor, i.e. flexibility and immediate loading, with the performance of a cast-in-place headed stud
- Close spacing and small edge distance thanks to low expansion forces
- Self-undercutting facilitates fast and reliable installation without the need for a separate undercutting tool or additional operations
- The resulting keying effect provides a secure hold even in cracked concrete under dynamic loading
- Manufactured under an NQA-1 nuclear quality assurance program with comprehensive approvals
What we say:
Jobs that require documentation for every anchor, screw, and bolt require lots of paperwork. Think nuclear power plants, bridges, and other civil engineering applications where precision and safety are paramount. Hilti realized they could streamline the process by leveraging the IoT (Internet of Things) to provide users with some solutions. This includes fastener documentation and tracking, digital access to relevant setting instructions, training & inspection documents, and even certifications. Hilti’s Tracefast technology platform provides you with an app-based solution to many of these challenges. Each fastener comes with a data matrix code (DMC), making every fastener uniquely identifiable and traceable.
Price: $297
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wood Screws
BECK Group Decking SCRAIL
What they said:
The Decking SCRAIL was specially developed for fast installation of high-end decks. It has a blunt point to minimize the splitting of wood. For various requirements on corrosion protection, the Decking SCRAIL is available in stainless steel
or FasCoat. For maximum holding power, the Decking SCRAIL always comes with our patented Diamond Coating. Enjoy cordless decking in combination with the FASCO F70G Cordless Strip Nailer.
- Fine Thread SCRAIL with a blunt “splitless” diamond point
- Diamond Coating for maximum holding power
- Optimized to work flawlessly in various wood species, e.g. soft wood like spruce and SYP
- Material: SS304/A2 stainless steel, SS316/A4 stainless steel & FasCoat
The expansion elements in the DIAMOND COATING diminish the friction between the fastener & the wood material. As a result of this reduced friction the fastener destroys fewer wood fibers, allowing more contact surface which results in increased withdrawal values.
What we say:
Beck’s Decking Scrail got our judges’ attention as a whole solution rather than one particular innovation. It all starts with eliminating the frustrations of split deck boards thanks to its blunt tip. Designed to be fired from a Scrail nailer rather than a traditional screw gun, the diamond coating helps maintain the hold in conjunction with each fastener’s threads. With two options for corrosion resistance, you end up with a deck fastening system that’s much faster than screw guns and impact drivers.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
Winner – Straps and Ties
TitanStraps TSI-0130-FB / 30″ TitanStrap Industrial tie-down
What they said:
TitanStraps are incredibly fast, easy-to-use, and highly adjustable. They can be tightened and released with one hand, are UV resistant, safer than bungees, and excel in cold temperatures. The polyurethane material has just the right amount of stretch, to keep your load secure, even if it shifts. TitanStraps have hundreds of uses and dominate at securing smaller items to lumber racks, bundling cords/hoses/wire, for organization in the workshop, and anytime you need to lash something down.
What we say:
TitanStraps are the new go-to replacement for bungee cords. They come in a wide range of sizes and a couple of widths to cover lighter and heavier-duty strapping. We love that they let you really tighten down a lot more than bungees cords. Connecting them also makes achieving larger lengths possible. They’re super-easy to use and are great to keep in your vehicle, on your boat, in your RV, or in the garage for those just in case moments.
Price: $11.99 (varies based on the length and duty rating)
For more information, click here.