These award-winning automotive tools and metalworking tools bring new efficiencies and capabilities to mechanics and fabricators. Whether you work on passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, or your “home” is in a machine shop, these tools provide new possibilities even as they promise greater potential and conveniences for professional trade users. Here are your winners for the PTIA 2021 Automotive and Metalworking Tools Awards category.
Winner – Mechanics Sets
DEWALT ToughSystem 2.0 Tray Mechanics Tool Sets DWMT45400
What they said:
These Mechanics Tool Sets include a wide selection of ratchets, sockets & accessories to help complete a variety of tasks. The set is perfectly engineered to fit within the TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 Shallow Tool Trays with molded inserts and compatible lids for optimal storage and transportation. These sets are compatible with all T.S 2.0 Boxes. Top stacking ability to maximize storage space. Connect, Carry and stack T.S 2.0 Trays using handles. Compatible with DWST08165, DWST08300, DWST08400, DWST08450.
These sets include a durable 72-tooth ratchet with a 5-degree arc swing for maneuverability in restricted areas. Sockets & Socket Accessories with DirectTorque Technology and anti-slip Knurling. All finished with a full-polish chrome, providing corrosion resistance and gives these tools a classic look. These sets provide any user with the most personalized, optimal and durable way to store your mechanics tool sets.
What we say:
Not all mechanics always have the advantage of a perfectly organized tool chest. Perfect for the mobile mechanic, DeWalt’s ToughSystem 2.0 Mechanics Tool Sets are specifically designed to work within the ToughSystem 2.0 environment. These Pro-level ratchets, sockets, and accessories come on an organizer tray that fits perfectly in ToughSystem 2.0’s shallow trays. If you want to carry them in other size ToughSystem 2.0 boxes, go right ahead. Plus, they’re just as happy living in your tool chest at the shop when you’re not on the go.
Price: $79-$159
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Ratchets
GEARWRENCH 3 PC. 1/4″ & 3/8″ Drive 90-Tooth Dual Material Teardrop Ratchet Set 81203T
What they said:
90-tooth gear delivers a 4° swing arc to turn a fastener in tight confines
Teardrop, low-profile head, and flush-mounted on/off switch allow better access in tight spaces.
- Dual material comfort grip handle
- Enclosed head design for extreme resistance to dirt infiltration
- Precision engineered high strength pawl for increased durability
- Highly visible on/off markings on the head
- Bright, full polish chrome finish easily wipes clean and resists corrosion
- Meets or exceeds ASME specifications
What we say:
Gearwrench kicks off their tight-access ratchet with a 90-tooth design that needs only 4° of arc swing compared to a standard 72-tooth’s 5°. From there, it’s all about access with a teardrop head shape and flush forward/reverse switch that reaches into tight spots better. They wrap it up with a fully enclosed head that laughs at dirty work environments and a dual material handle that offers a much more comfortable grip.
Price: $119.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Ratchets
SKIL PWR CORE 12 Brushless 12V 3/8 IN. Ratchet Wrench Kit RW5763A-10
What they said:
Get industry-leading performance with a brushless cordless ratchet wrench powered by SKIL PWRCORE 12 lithium technology. This 12V brushless ratchet brings power to the tightest of spaces with its low-profile head design and overpowering torque, allowing you to work in an engine bay without any issues. Whether you are in the garage or assembling furniture, look no further as this ratchet wrench will conquer nuts, bolts, or fasteners thrown its way. This brushless cordless ratchet comes equipped with a variable speed trigger that delivers 0-220 RPMs while choosing 55ft-lbs. of max torque or 150ft-lbs of max manual torque. The built-in LED light allows for swift use in tight, dimly lit environments, such as under the hood or beneath the car. Backed by the SKIL PWRCORE 12 lithium-ion battery technology, this wrench runs up to 25% longer and delivers 2X the battery life, while the PWRJUMP charger charges the battery 25% in just 5-minutes.
Features
- LONGER RUN TIME & BATTERY LIFE — Industry leading PWRCORE 12 lithium-ion battery technology wraps each cell with cooling material to keep the battery powering on for 25% longer run time and 2X battery life.
- 5-MINUTE CHARGING – PWRJUMP charges the battery in just 5 minutes, or 100% battery in 30 minutes (based on 2.0Ah battery).
- POWER ON THE GO – Plug in to the battery’s USB port whenever, wherever with PWR ASSIST Mobile
- COMPACT SIZE – The digital brushless motor provides compact, lightweight power.
- POWERFUL TORQUE – SKIL PWRCORE 12 brushless ratchet wrench offers max torque of up to 55ft-lbs to easily remove or install nuts, bolts, and other fasteners.
- VARIABLE SPEED TRIGGER – Purpose-built variable speed trigger provides precise speed from 0-220 RPM, delivering optimal control under the hood
What we say:
Skil packs a lot of performance under the hood of their PWRCore 12 brushless ratchet. With 220 RPM and 55 ft-lbs of available torque, it has the speed and power to keep up with the premium brands. But what’s really impressive is that the kit is just $129, and that includes an upgraded PWRJump charger to get you back in the game quickly when your battery needs a recharge.
Price: $129.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Nut Drivers
Crescent Tools Bolt Biter Bolt Extraction and Driver Set CAVBXR-5
What they said:
The new Crescent Bolt Biter Impact Nut Extractor and Driver have an innovative design that grips any nut or bolt no matter how damaged. The revolutionary bi-directional gripping design quickly and easily removes and tightens, eliminating the frustration when working with rusted or ruined hex head fasteners.
What we say:
Crescent has taken their innovative Bolt Biter extractor design and applied it to nut drivers. Their ¼” hex shanks can work in an impact driver or drill without the need for an adapter. The beauty of these extractors is not only in the effectiveness of removing a damaged bolt but also in their ability to work in the fastening direction when you don’t have a replacement on hand for that damaged fastener.
Price: $22.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Sockets
Mac RBRT Socket Extractors
What they said:
The RBRT Socket Extractor Sets are designed to remove damaged, destroyed or rusted fasteners (removes 100% rounded). The Socket Extractors are made from high-grade, impact-rated steel. They are designed to be used with a ratchet or wrench depending on the accessibility. The unique, bi-directional design allows for both removal and re-insertion of fasteners. The sets include a foreign object removal (F.O.R.) pusher for easy removal of extracted fastener from within the socket cavity.
What we say:
If you’re a mechanic or on the MRO spectrum, you have to have a quality set of socket extractors. Mac Tools takes their design to a new level with a set that can even remove 100% rounded bolts. Here’s the thing—these are designed to be hammered onto those extremely rounded bolts to get the bit you need to get them off or put them back on if you don’t have a replacement. That’s great, but now they’re stuck, right? That’s where the Foreign Object Removal pushers come in. Just slip them in through the drive opening and use them to pop those bolts right back out!
Price: $251.99-$616.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Wrenches
Wurth USA ZEBRA POWERDRIV (12-Point) Dual Ratchet Combination Wrench Assortment 71425950
What they said:
Innovative wrench with ratchet function on the box and open ends.
Contents:
- 6 pieces, with plastic holder
- 1 ratchet combination wrench with double-ended ratchet function in each of the following sizes: 8; 10; 12; 13; 17; 19mm
What we say:
Wurth made their Zebra ratcheting wrenches even more versatile and convenient with a ratcheting open end. Some of these are novel, but Wurth’s actually work. A mechanism inside the open end allows the wrench to slip over the points of the bolt and re-engage once you pull in the opposite direction. Just like a ratcheting closed-end, all you have to do to switch from forward to reverse is flip the wrench over.
Price: $113.14
For more information, click here.
Winner – Torque Wrenches
Milwaukee Tool 3/8″ & 1/2″ M12 FUEL Ratcheting Torque Wrench w/ONE-KEY
What they said:
The M12 FUEL Torque Wrench w/ ONE-KEY delivers faster installation time and precise torque measurements for torque-critical fasteners. An industry first, this solution allows the user to rundown and torque the fastener with one tool, eliminating the need to have two tools and increasing productivity by up to 50%. At +/- 5% torque accuracy, this tool will give users the confidence to know that their fasteners are torqued to the specific torque value they desire. ONE-KEY reporting allows the user to save individual torque events and create a report to show all of the fasteners target torque and actual torque applied.
What we say:
Milwaukee takes the frustration of setting fasteners that require torque wrench confirmation. The built-in M12 Fuel ratchet tightens down bolts short of the amount of torque you need. From there, you’re making a partial turn until you get confirmation from the wrench that you’ve reached the amount of torque you specified. It’s a big time-saver that gives you repeatable results and offers reporting from ONE-KEY for final confirmation.
Price: $749.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Riveting Tools
Arrow Fastener Headless Swivel Head Riveter RT300S
What they said:
The new RT300S headless swivel head rivet tool is an industry-first headless riveter that automatically adjusts to different rivet sizes helping the user save time and effort switching between threaded head sizes. This rivet tool also features a compact design and one-handed throw for easier squeezing. Lastly, this tool features a swivel head for various angles and access into tough to reach spots.
What we say:
What sets the Arrow RT300S apart from other rivet tools is its ability to automatically adjust to different rivet sizes. There’s no need to switch heads at all. Between that and a swiveling head to work in tight corners along with one-hand operation, Arrow steps up to a whole new level of riveting convenience.
Price: $29.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Band Saws
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw 2529-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to deliver disruptive innovation by introducing the M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw to their band saw lineup. The lightest compact band saw on the market, users can easily maneuver this saw into the tightest spaces and use it one-handed. As the fastest cutting band saw in its class, this saw cuts faster than the 18V and 20V competitors within the 2-1/2” cut capacity class.
A POWERSTATE Brushless Motor enables the M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw to deliver the fastest cutting speed in Unistrut with a cut capacity of 2-½” X 2-½”. To minimize fatigue, the band saw is optimized for overhead use and weighs only six pounds, making it the lightest compact band saw on the market. For one-handed use, the band saw features integrated blade covers and a larger cut capacity than the M12™ Sub-Compact Band Saw.
The band saw is also compatible with a unique Milwaukee Pipe Reamer Attachment, the only compact band saw attachment in the industry, that provides users with the ability to easily cut and ream with one tool, has tool-free installation, and reams ½”, ¾” and 1” conduit. For ease of use, the reamer attachment attaches directly to the back pulley of the M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw.
This new M12 FUEL Compact Band Saw will also ship with Milwaukee’s newest band saw blades – the Extreme Metal Compact Band Saw Blades. Optimized for thin metal with 12/14TPI or for thick metal with 8/10TPI, these new 30-9/16” blades maximize the users’ band saw blade performance, allowing users to cut more with fewer blade changes. Milwaukee’s new lineup of Extreme Metal Band Saw Blades will launch early next year.
What we say:
Milwaukee combined several concepts that make their M12 Fuel Compact Band Saw a better overall package than others. It starts with the capacity. By taking it up to 2-1/2”, it opens up more possibilities without letting the tool’s size and weight get away from its compact nature. Milwaukee also offers a reaming attachment and pairs the tool with its premium band saw blade to make it an incredibly attractive option.
Price: $229.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Band Saw Blades
LENOX GEN-TECH Band Saw Blades
What they said:
GEN-TECH is a set-style carbide blade that is priced aggressively in the market place enabling it to lower the total cost per cut for end-users compared to bi-metal or higher priced carbide options. It does this by utilizing advanced processing methods and a high-performing carbide tip. The set-style design allows it to work on a wide range of saws that previously were unable to utilize carbide effectively.
What we say:
Lenox is targeting a transition from bi-metal band saw blades to carbide ones that are easier on your bottom line with Gen-Tech. Two big keys to making that happen stood out to our voters. First, there’s Honex—an advanced carbide grade that gets a special honing procedure that makes the blade already broken in to help limit tooth chipping and extend the life. The other piece of the puzzle is Wave Tech on the back edge of the blade that helps improve tooth penetration without the need for additional pressure from the saw.
Price: $19.00-$27.50 per foot list price
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Chop Saws
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 14” Abrasive Chop Saw 2990-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool unveils the next generation of chop saws with the industry’s first full-size chop saw – the M18 FUEL 14” Abrasive Chop Saw. Designed for the toughest metalworking applications, the new chop saw delivers 15A corded power within a cordless, portable solution.
True of all M18 FUEL solutions, the new M18 FUEL Chop Saw combines three exclusive innovations – the POWERSTATE brushless motor, REDLITHIUM battery pack, and REDLINK PLUS intelligence.
The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor provides 4,000 RPM for consistent power and cut speed on the jobsite. REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures maximum performance and protection from overload, overheating, and over-discharge. When equipped a REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD 12.0 Battery, the chop saw can deliver up to 200 cuts per charge in 3-5/8” 20-gauge steel stud. For safety, a RAPID STOP Blade Brake stops the bade within 3seconds of trigger release.
To save time, the chop saw offers tool-free blade changes and tool-free fence adjustments to make blade changes and fence movements a seamless process. The chop saw is complete with an overload indicator light that lights up when too much pressure is applied to guide users back into the optimal cutting speed. Milwaukee is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The new chop saw is fully compatible with the entire M18 line, now offering more than 200 power tool solutions.
What we say:
The Milwaukee cordless chop saw is designed with the performance to be a corded replacement yet still runs on a single 18V battery. That’s impressive. Aside from the single-battery cordless convenience, the design team highlighted the feature set with tool-free wheel changes. If a cordless chop saw is on your wish list, put the Milwaukee 2990 on our shortlist.
Price: $399.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Metal Circular Saws
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw 2982-20
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL 8” Metal Cutting Circular Saw generates 15A corded power, faster cuts than 15A corded metal circular saws, and delivers up to 120’ of cutting corrugated decking per charge. We’ve designed our M18 FUEL 8” Metal Cutting Circular Saw to perform in the toughest applications, combining our legendary performance and durability with the portability of the M18 platform. Our POWERSTATE Brushless Motor provides 4,000 RPM and faster cutting performance than its corded competitors. REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures maximum performance and protection from overload, overheating, and over-discharge. When paired with our M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC8.0 battery (not included), you get 50% more power while running 50% cooler than our M18 REDLITHIUM XC Batteries. This metal circular saw has a cut capacity of 2-9/16” for tackling demanding applications at a larger capacity than any previous cordless metal cutting circular saws.
What we say:
While this isn’t Milwaukee’s first metal-cutting circular saw, it’s their first one to tackle replacing an 8-inch corded model and they nailed it. The Milwaukee 2982 has a ton of power thanks to its upgraded brushless motor and High-Output battery. From there, it’s simply a great design. Chip collection is solid and there’s a window to keep your eye open for when it’s time to empty it. As a cold-cutting saw, the carbide blade leaves a cut that’s cool to the touch, smooth, and nearly burr-free.
Price: $399.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Grinders
DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless 4-1/2-In.-5-In. Cordless Grinder with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE Technology DCG416B
What they said:
The 20V MAX Brushless 4-1/2-In.-5-In.Cordless Grinder with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE Technology (DCG416B) has up to 54% more power when paired with a FLEXVOLT® 6.0Ah battery (DCB606). It achieves over 1400 UWO and features a KICKBACK BRAKE and E-CLUTCH System for user protection.
What we say:
The beauty of DeWalt’s FlexVolt Advantage angle grinder is that it’s like having two tools in one. You get effective grinding using any of DeWalt’s 20V Max batteries but then it kicks the performance up to a whole other level when you use a FlexVolt pack. Add in kickback control and electronic clutch and it’s a highly versatile advanced cordless grinder.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Winner – Die Grinder
DEWALT DWE4997NVS 2 in. Brushless Variable Speed Paddle Switch Die Grinder
What they said:
The 2 in. Brushless Paddle Switch Die Grinder (with no lock-on) features a brushless motor for long motor life and no need to change brushes. The 13 Amp motor delivers up to 1700 UWO. The variable speed paddle switch and dial help provide the user control over 7500 to 25000 RPM. This die grinder includes two PERFORM & PROTECT integrated control features: LANYARD READY and Kickback Brake.
What we say:
It may seem odd to pack a brushless motor into a corded tool, but there are some very real benefits that come with DeWalt’s choice to do just that on the DWE4997NVS die grinder. For starters, you don’t have to worry about switching carbon brushes over time. There’s also a kickback brake on this model. If the sensors detect a pinch or stall, it shuts down the motor super-fast to help avoid injury or damage. It’s more than just convenience and safety, though. The 13-amp brushless motor is capable of running 7500 – 25000 RPM to make quick work of your next fabrication or repair job.
Price: $299.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Die Grinders
RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Right Angle Die Grinder PSBDG01B
What they said:
RYOBI introduces the industry’s first 18V Right Angle Die Grinder. The 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless ¼” Right Angle Die Grinder is designed to live up to professional expectations, delivering a powerful solution in the most compact and lightweight design. Ideal for tight workspaces, the compact size allows for this die grinder to be used in areas where air hoses may mar the work surface or get in the way. Powered by a brushless motor, producing up to 22,000 RPM, this die grinder has 2 times the amount of power compared to pneumatic. It also features a 4-Mode Speed control and responsive variable-speed trigger for maximum control in any work environment. To make accessory changes quick and easy, use the onboard spindle lock and single wrench.
What we say:
Combining the ergonomics of a pistol grip and the speed of a die grinder, Ryobi’s right-angle die grinder challenges traditional design thinking. It’s more than just a new form factor, though, and Ryobi’s 18V One+ HP technology gives this compact tool surprising power, even compared to pneumatic options.
Price: $149.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Abrasive Grinder Wheel
HART 2pc 80 Grit Flap Discs HACA03
What they said:
The HART 2pc 80 Grit Flap Disc contains two 80 grit flap discs compatible with any 4 ½” angle grinder with a 7/8” arbor. These flap discs provide aggressive material removal on both wood and metal and a smooth finish with the 80 grit design. Users get two discs in the set to provide the optimal value and opportunity for use on multiple projects. These are perfect for projects requiring more material removal than sandpaper, but that would still need a smooth clean finish.
What we say:
Flap disks are great at removing more material than a sander while still leaving a clean finish and Hart doesn’t think you should have to pay an arm and a leg for them. Their 2-pack is under $5—less than you pay for just one from other brands.
Price: $4.94
For more information, click here.
Winner – Grinder Cutting Wheel
DEWALT High Performance 4-1/2 x .045 x 7/8 T1 Cutting Wheel DW8062
What they said:
Replace wheels less often with Temper Point grains that are tougher and razor-sharp for up to 50% Longer Life*. Better adhesion between the coated grains and resin creates a longer-lasting cutting edge that wears slowly. Efficiently cut a wide range of metals including carbon steel, stainless and nickel-based alloys. Make fast cuts with a thin wheel design and high-grain concentration. It is Durable By Design, built with two sheets of fiberglass for wheel strength to help to reduce wheel breakage.
*vs Previous design DEWALT HP Wheels cutting 1/4″ carbon steel plate
What we say:
DeWalt improves on their High-Performance cutting wheels by re-engineering the grains to be sharper and last longer, giving you fast cuts with more cuts between wheel changes. Even better, these are very reasonably priced, making a strong case to be your primary cutting wheels.
Price: $2.39
For more information, click here.
Winner – Impact Wrenches
Ingersoll Rand 2146QiMax ¾” Impact Wrench
What they said:
The new Ingersoll Rand 2146QiMax Impact Wrench is the only tool on the market with a pressure gauge that shows the compressed air power coursing through the tool, eliminating the need to use a secondary pressure gauge. The new innovative pressure gauge shows the optimized airflow and pressure as you use it, so you know when the tool is operating below or above the recommended 90 PSI air pressure. Operating within those parameters, your tool will last longer and perform more reliably. The pressure gauge has three colors – green, yellow and red – to represent the quantity of compressed air exerted from the impact wrench. When the gauge is in the green section, the tool performs at its peak – the recommend 90 PSI air pressure. When the gauge is in the red section, it is operating above 90 PSI, and when the gauge is in the yellow section, it is below the recommended 90 PSI. Being able to visually see the amount of PSI that the tool is exerting will expand the tool’s lifetime.
The 2146QiMax Impact Wrench delivers 2,000 ft-lbs of Nut Busting Torque. The tool increases productivity with its versatility and can handle a wide range of applications in truck and bus service, repair and body shops, industrial, construction, and agricultural equipment maintenance. The 2146QiMax Impact offers full power within its lightweight build, featuring a new patented one-hand forward/reverse and feather-touch trigger that provides maximum control. Enhanced balance and ergonomics coupled with Quiet Technology make this tool perfect for all-day maneuverability and comfort, sparing your ears without sacrificing a single ounce of power.
What we say:
An upgrade to the 2145QiMax, the 2146QiMax is stronger and offers up to 2000 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. What really sets it apart is the onboard pressure gauge. Pneumatic tools don’t just operate best at their recommended pressure, they get the longest life as well. With a red indicator letting you know when you’re above 90 PSI and a yellow one indicating you’re below it, you can keep the tool operating where it needs to without a separate gauge.
Price: TBA
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Impact Wrenches
Ingersoll Rand 1-inch Cordless Impact Wrench W9691
What they said:
The 1-inch Cordless Impact Wrench is the first cordless tool on the market to reach this level of torque. With 3,000 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque, the Ingersoll Rand 1-inch Cordless Impact Wrench provides the power technicians need to handle bolts that are hard to break, rusted, or tough to loosen, all in one cordless design.
The tool comes with two anvil options, an extended 6-inch anvil and a short standard anvil for optimal versatility. The 6-inch anvil is ideal for vehicle repair applications as it helps operators access hard-to-reach places.
A power control shut-off system automatically shuts off the tool when it has reached the set torque amount, which prevents over-tightening and stripping of the bolt. The tool utilizes the IQv Power Control System and can easily switch between four modes: Full reverse, MAX, MID, or Snug modes in no time.
The tool is powered by two 5.0 Amp Hours batteries to last a full workday and can perform up to 250 bolt removals and installations on a single battery charge. There are various kit options available, including the W9691-K4E with a dual bay charger and four batteries.
What we say:
We’ve seen some serious development in the cordless impact wrench category and Ingersoll-Rand just left everyone else in the dust with their W9691. With up to 3000 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, your torch is going to have to stay on the sidelines more often. It has some intelligence built-in as well, using settings for Snug, Mid, and Max fastening torque. Muscle and brains? Ingersoll-Rand delivers!
Price: $1,736.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless 12V Impact Wrenches
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL 1/2″ Right Angle Impact Wrenches
What they said:
By harnessing the portable productivity, performance, and run-time of M12 FUEL technology, Milwaukee Tool is proud to introduce the industry’s most powerful right angle impact wrenches – the M12 FUEL Right Angle Impact Wrenches. As the first brushless Right Angle Impact Wrenches on the market, the new impact tools provide users with more torque output than any other cordless or pneumatic solution.
Available in 3/8” and ½” sizes, the new M12 FUEL Right Angle Impact Wrenches are the most powerful right-angle impact wrenches on the market. Equipped with a long body profile, the impact wrenches provide more access and ultimate control in hard-to-reach applications. The low-profile head of only 2.8 inches in length easily fits into tight spaces and allows users to be more productive, decreasing the need for socket extensions commonly used with pistol-grip impact tools.
The M12 FUEL Right Angle Impacts’ POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers up to 220 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, removing stubborn bolts and fasteners. When paired with Milwaukee’s REDLINK Intelligence and REDLITHIUM CP2.0 Battery Pack, the Right Angle Impacts have the power and speed to tackle various applications without dips in performance.
Designed with a four-mode DRIVE CONTROL feature, users have unmatched control and the versatility to switch between modes to match the power and speed necessary for the application at hand. All four modes allow for maximum precision control, with the 4th featuring an Auto-Shut Off Mode to prevent over-fastening of bolts, and bolt removal mode for more control after bolt breakaway.
What we say:
Power is the name of the game in this year’s cordless impact driver categories and Milwaukee is giving you more for your right-angle impact wrench. With 220 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 4 drive modes (including a fastening auto-stop), you can get those bolts without losing control. The tool is compact as well, using a brushless motor powered by an M12 battery that keeps the overall size down and giving you access to those tighter areas.
Price: $199.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Tire Buffer
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL Low Speed Tire Buffer 2409-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to deliver disruptive innovation for tire and automotive technicians by introducing the world’s first cordless low-speed tire buffer – the M12 FUEL Low-Speed Tire Buffer. A huge breakthrough for cordless power tool technology, the M12 FUEL Low-Speed Tire Buffer is a full pneumatic replacement, delivering the power and control needed for passenger, light truck, and commercial flat repairs with run-time to outlast a day’s work.
As with all M12 FUEL products, the tire buffer features three Milwaukee-exclusive innovations — the POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM Battery Pack, and REDLINK PLUS Intelligence Hardware and Software.
The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers the power to complete demanding buffing and drilling applications across passenger, light truck, and commercial tires, while the REDLINK PLUS Intelligence enables full-circle communication between the tool and battery, allowing for unmatched levels of performance, protection, and productivity. This advanced electronic package provides the world’s first tire buffer with 2-Mode Drive Control and is the only tool that adheres to both USTMA standards of 1,200 RPM for drilling and less than 5,000 RPM for buffing, to avoid costly mistakes and ensure consistent flat repairs. When paired with the M12 REDLITHIUM XC4.0Ah battery, the tire buffer delivers enough run-time to complete up to 30 flat repairs on a single charge.
To further increase productivity, flared contour buffing wheels are available in a 2.5” size for passenger to commercial tires and a 2” size for passenger and light truck buffing. For more consistent and faster buffing, the contour design hugs the shape of the tire and the flared design is more compact to increase access.
What we say:
Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel Low-Speed Tire Buffer is an impressive 2-in-1 tool that fits the very specific needs of flat repairs. Its two-speed settings let you easily switch from drilling to buffing with the performance to handle commercial tires in addition to standard passenger vehicle tires. Best of all, it’s a full replacement for pneumatic, making it much more convenient in the shop and a huge benefit for mobile techs.
Price: $179.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Polishers
RYOBI 18V ONE+ Dual Action Polisher PBF100
What they said:
Ryobi’s 18V One+ Dual Action Polisher provides up to 7,500 Orbits Per Minute (OPM) for a professional finish while offering cordless convenience. The PBF100B is the lightest dual action polisher in its class weighing in at just 3.75 lbs. Combine that with a removable auxiliary handle and a lock-on switch, this polisher maintains comfortability and optimum performance during extended use. The powerful and efficient motor allows users to polish a full-sized vehicle on one battery charge (using a P194 9.0Ah battery). The built-in non-marring bumpers also help protect your work surface.
What we say:
Ryobi put its cordless dual action polisher on a weight loss plan, and it came out lean. Weighing just 3.75 pounds, it lays claim as the lightest cordless model in its class. Ranging from 3000 to 7500 OPM, you still have plenty of control over the application speed and the tool body is ergonomically easy to manage.
Price: $199.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – OBD2 Scanners
Mac Tools Next-Generation ET9200 Series Scan Tools
What they said:
The NEW ET9200 Series automotive scan tools bring everything you need to diagnose, research, and repair vehicles right to your fingertips-designed for technicians, by technicians. These tools have been optimized with a high-strength, lightweight design, extended battery life, and enhanced processor powered by an upgraded android operating system to get the job done faster. The quick-connect VCI provides a completely wireless experience utilizing the new hot button navigation for quicker access to critical functions, like the Quick Scan feature. The Google Play Store was added to enable access to favorite apps and accessories like the Bluetooth Battery Tester, Video Scope, and Chassis Ear. Whether you are looking to get started in diagnostics with the ET9200PRO, need more power with the ET9200ADV, or want to upgrade to the ultimate unit with the ET9200ELITE, Mac has a tool that is perfect for you.
What we say:
OBD2 scanners are nothing new, but we’re in a better place technologically that sets the stage for some big improvements. Mac Tools next-gen ET9200 series is a great example of the possibilities. Setting up on three distinct levels to meet your needs, its combination of upgraded processor and operating system delivers faster performance. Battery life is higher and it’s in a lightweight form factor with secure side grips and rugged housing. Add in wireless communication to the vehicle, hot button navigation, a steering wheel holder, and more, and you have a high-powered scanning tool to help you get your diagnostic jobs done faster and easier.
Price: $2800-$6000
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Task Lighting
DEWALT DCL045B 12V/20V MAX Hood Light
What they said:
The DCL045 is the World’s 1st dual-voltage cordless Hood Light and provides best-in-class Brightness with a 1700 Lumen max output. The DCL045 is also the World’s 1st Hood Light with Independent Left/Right Arm Control which provides increased versatility for additional task lighting applications. With a best-in-class runtime of 5 hours on High & 11 hours on Low (using a DCB204), the DCL045 is made for all-day illumination. The Extending arms allow the DCL045 to stretch between 51″-74″ for use on most passenger vehicles while the 360-degree, rotating, anti-marring hooks protect the vehicle’s finish. The compact, folding design, makes stowing & transport of the DCL045 as convenient as possible.
What we say:
DeWalt wins the Task Lighting category with their DCL045B cordless hood light that does everything we expect from this class of light and adds a couple of big bonuses. It’s a multi-voltage light that can use either DeWalt 12V Max or 20V Max batteries for power. What’s really eye-opening is that this light has pivot points in the middle and hooks that rotate 360°. While it’s well-suited to stretch across a hood like other hood/underhood designs, these features open up more uses for the light that those other models won’t work for.
Price: $179.00
For more information, click here.