This year’s award-winning automotive tools and metalworking tools really topped anything we’ve seen to-date. New ratchets, tool sets, storage solutions, and other products really paved the way for innovation. No matter if you work in the automotive or metal fabrication industry, you should find something here that grabs your attention.
If you work with vehicles, metal, or any related field, the tools given a 2022 Pro Tool Innovation Award in the automotive and metalworking category should present possibilities, potential, and improved workflow opportunities for anyone in the trades. Check out the leading innovators in the 2022 Automotive and Metalworking Tools Awards category.
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 inches, 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 – Metal/Chop Saws
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 14-Inch Abrasive Chop Saw 2990-21HD
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, making it one of the most convenient chops on the market. If a cordless chop saw is on your wish list, put the Milwaukee 2990 on our shortlist.
Price: $399.00 bare, $679.00 kit
For more information, click here.
Winner – Grease Gun
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Grease Gun CMCGG001B
What they said:
The Craftsman V20 Cordless Grease Gun provides 10,000 max PSI to power through clogged grease fittings in speed one. Switch to speed two for increased flow rate, achieving 9oz MAX/min. Additional features include a variable speed trigger for added control and a 40-inch hose to access hard-to-reach grease fittings.
What we say:
Craftsman’s cordless grease gun does several things to set it apart from its closest competition. Aside from hitting the 10,000 PSI we expect, its 9.0 oz/min flow rate is higher, meaning you can fill faster. The variable speed trigger offers more control when you need it and its 40-inch hose gives you more reach. Wrap it up in a package that has a comfortably ergonomic handle design and it’s a winner.
Price: $149.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Abrasive/Grinding Grinder Wheel
DEWALT Elite Series Grinding Wheels DWA8908F
What they said:
The Grinding Elite Series brings advanced design to metalworking with up to 50% Longer Life VS Norton*. Pressure Pact TM design allows fewer wheels in extreme applications. High-tech grains are packed tightly under intense heat and pressure, removing air to get more cutting edges in less space. Aggressively grind a wide range of metals with a self-sharpening, crystalline grain structure. Built with three sheets of fiberglass to maximize wheel strength and reduce breakage. High-density grain concentration grinds fast and smooth with low vibration and minimal jumping.
*Based on DEWALT DWA8908F vs. Norton® 66253370794 grinding 1/2″ A36 Steel Plate. Norton is a registered trademark of Saint-Gobain Abrasives, Inc., which has not endorsed or approved this comparison.
What we say:
DeWalt has been spending a lot of R&D time focused on accessories and the Elite Series Grinding Wheel is just one result of their efforts. Focusing on the grain itself and developing ways to bind them that reduce the amount of air between grains while improving the overall strength, you end up with a grinder wheel that lasts longer.
Price: $7.87
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cutting Grinder Wheel
DEWALT ELITE SERIES Steel Cutting Wheel DWA8951F
What they said:
Swiftly cut through rebar, heavy wall pipe, and sheet metal with the DEWALT ELITE SERIES Steel Cutting Wheel. The wheel was designed to cut more metal over time, meaning you will use fewer wheels in high-intensity applications. Make fast cuts in a range of metals with the wheel’s sharp, crystalline, densely packed grain structure, which features grains that were heat-treated and pressurized for more cutting edges in less space.
What we say:
Anytime you’re cutting with an abrasive grinder wheel, you want fast performance. You also want a long-lasting wheel so you can spend less time changing wheels and spend less money on your consumables. DeWalt’s Elite Series Steel Cutting Wheel accomplishes both with a design that started by reimagining grain creation and using a bonding process that packs them more tightly. You get the job done quickly with fewer wheels and everybody’s happy.
Price: $4.54
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Grinders
Bosch Power Tools 18V X-LOCK 4-1/2 In. Angle Grinder with Slide Switch GWX18V-8N
What they said:
The Bosch GWX18V is an ergonomic X-LOCK angle grinder which prioritizes portability, performance, and user comfort. The grinder’s brushless motor provides an equivalent 8.0 amps of power and greater efficiency to maximize runtime and productivity.
Further, its X-LOCK mount offers a wheel change up to five times faster than conventional interfaces – all with an audible snap for user experience. The 4-1/2-inch 18V grinder has restart protection, preventing accidental start-ups in battery switches. Additionally, the grinder includes soft-start technology and overload protection, reducing startup torque and helping ease into cuts and the risk of the motor overloading or overheating, respectively. It features an adjustable tool-free guard and an updated gearhead mounting collar compatible with all Bosch metal and concrete cutting guards. Created with user comfort and experience top of mind, the Bosch GWX18V is revolutionizing work with angle grinders.
What we say:
If you haven’t used an X-Lock angle grinder yet, what are you waiting for? The innovative interface design eliminates the need for spanner wrenches with a snap-on and hands-free removal connection that’s super-secure. Plus, the X-Lock wheels are compatible with standard angle grinder arbors.
Bosch takes its X-Lock interface and adds it to a quality cordless grinder with a lot of bells and whistles to go with its 8-amp corded power equivalence. Its brushless motor improves the life and runtime while restart protection keeps the motor from turning on when you insert a new battery without flipping the switch off. A controlled soft start eliminates the jerky starting motion some grinders have and Bosch’s internal electronics monitor the system to protect it from overload and overheating events.
Price: $139
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Mechanics Tool Sets Hand Tools
Craftsman 262PC Three Drawer Mechanic Tool Set CMMT45307
What they said:
The 262 PC. VERSASTACK 3-DRAWER MECHANICS TOOL SET is fully compatible and can be stacked on or under other VERSASTACK components. The CRAFTSMAN VERSASTACK system is a flexible platform that allows for many different combinations of storage solutions based on the user’s needs. Featuring an easy-use drawer lock dial, drawers lock in place when not in use to prevent contents from falling out. We’ve also incorporated a drawer stop system that allows drawers to be easily removed. Drawers open with one hand and can nest on top of the box for easy access and temporary storage. Made to tackle any task, this set is filled with an assortment of 262 mechanics tools. The perfect assortment for a semi-pro, automotive enthusiast, & do-it-yourselfer, this set includes (3) ratchets, (118) sockets, (24) wrenches, (44) hex keys, (66) specialty bits, and (7) accessories.
What we say:
Craftsman hand tools have been part of American garages and shops for decades. After all, everyone has a Craftsman story, right? Packing a comprehensive mechanics tool set into a single case isn’t new. However, Craftsman makes sure the drawers lock in place while remaining removable and their case is compatible with the VERSASTACK storage system, making it that much easier to get the right tools to the job no matter where you have to go.
Price: $269.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Impact Wrenches
DEWALT 20V MAX Atomic Compact Impact Wrench DCF921
What they said:
The ATOMIC 20V MAX* Cordless Compact Impact Wrenches were designed easily to handle various fastening projects. Get up to 300 ft-lbs of max fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of max breakaway torque with this compact power tool that offers easy maneuverability without sacrificing power. At under 2.5lbs and 5″ inches in length it is small enough and light enough to use on a variety of fastening tasks. Choose between 4 speed settings including Precision Wrench control which helps to prevent overtightening in forward and run-off in reverse. The all-new Timber Screw mode improves tool performance and speed of application when fastening larger screws into lumber such as lags. Dark work areas are no problem with this Cordless Impact Wrench, which comes with an LED work light and adjustable brightness for visibility in dimly lit spaces.
Independent reviews say it best: “This has now become my go to impact wrench to the point where I haven’t even had to touch my mid torque and hi torque options ever since I got this. The versatility and the overall maneuverability that such a minimal form factor blesses you with is a game changer for me, but then when you factor in the insane amount of power that this has and there’s not much that this thing can’t handle with ease. It’s every bit as capable and powerful as the best stubby air impacts on the market…. All without the need for cords or compressed air.
Dewalt are the new standard bearers when it comes to this particular segment of the market and have set the bar rather high, all at a fair price. Highly, highly recommended.”
What we say:
A quick look at the DeWalt Atomic DCF921 impact wrench and your first thought might be “that’s adorable”. But packed inside this incredibly compact design is a brushless motor that’s capable of producing 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque! If that’s not enough, DeWalt’s Precision Screw Mode is there and contractors get their own mode with a brand-new Timber Screw setting specifically designed for using large, long fasteners.
Price: $199.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Mag Drills
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Magnetic Drill Press DCD1623GX2
What they said:
This 20V MAX Brushless 2 in. Magnetic Drill Press Kit features FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE technology that makes the drill up to 32% more powerful when using a DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCB609 battery** as well as results in cutting speeds up to 50% faster vs. competitor.
Built to help prevent tool failure due to lost power, it securely attaches to 1/4 in. and thicker metal by using a permanent magnet base that requires no electrical charge. This high-performance magnetic drill press packs the capacity to drill up to 40 holes per charge*
The Quick-Change Chuck system allows for tool-free change between 3/4″ Weldon Shank and 5/8″ keyed chuck (Included). To keep the user in control, the E-Clutch is designed to turn off when it detects rotation, part of the PERFORM & PROTECT family. The drill has 5 variable speeds for each of the 2 mechanical gears for a total of 10 speed settings to allow for a wide RPM range for a variety of applications.
Includes (2) DCB609G FLEXVOLT Oil Resistant 9.0AH batteries and Charger.
What we say:
DeWalt’s cordless mag drill has been a long time coming and the design team nailed it. Capable of using any DeWalt 20V Max battery, you get a significant power boost when you use a FlexVolt battery while outperforming the competition. They also got the safety aspect right with a magnet system that doesn’t rely on the battery’s power to engage with steel.
10 speed settings give you plenty of control and an electronic clutch monitors for bind-ups. Understanding the needs of professionals who will be using this mag drill, DeWalt packs it with two of their oil-resistant 9.0Ah FlexVolt batteries so you get the most benefit from your purchase.
Price: $2,399.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Metal Saws
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 8-Inch Metal Cutting Circular Saw 2982-21
What they said:
Harnessing the power, performance, and run-time delivered by M18 FUEL technology, Milwaukee Tool has developed the industry’s first cordless 8-Inch Metal Cutting Circular Saw. Generating 15amp corded power on a cordless platform, this new solution is thoughtfully designed to perform in the toughest applications, such as 1-inch plate steel, angle iron, corrugated decking, and 2-inch black pipe, without slowing users down.
“Since its inception a little over 10 years ago, M18 technology has continued to push the boundaries of 18V capability, allowing us to develop cordless tools in a predominately corded space. The introduction of the first cordless 8-Inch Metal Cutting Circular Saw is a significant achievement for the M18 System and a huge step forward for productivity in metal cutting” said Kevin Gee, Group Product Manager for Milwaukee Tool. “Through our advanced M18 FUEL cordless technology, we’re able to deliver an 8-Inch Metal Cutting Circular Saw that not only surpasses the speed of corded but does so with a larger cutting capacity than any cordless metal cutting circular saw.”
With Milwaukee’s M18 REDLITHIUM Battery technology, the tool eliminates the hassle of cords and delivers the power to cut up to 120’ in corrugated decking per charge. In conjunction with REDLINK PLUS Intelligence and a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, the M18 REDLITHIUM Battery provides users with all-day runtime – ensuring maximum performance and protection from overload, overheating, and over-discharge. Like the corded model, the new metal cutting saw provides users with a cold-cutting solution for thicker metals. An Overload Indicator Light illuminates when users push the saw too hard and a durable blade shield with integrated chip collection deflects and collects metal chips and sparks.
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: $429.00 bare, $549.00 kit
For more information, click here.
Winner – Nibblers
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL 16-Gauge Variable Speed Nibbler 2476-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to drive innovation within metal cutting with the introduction of their M12 FUEL 16-Gauge Variable Speed Nibbler. With the same cutting capacity as its 18-volt competitors, the 12-volt nibbler delivers fast, clean cuts in 16-gauge mild steel and has the power to cut 22-gauge spiral duct seams, in a compact, lightweight design. Delivering fast, clean cuts in 16-gauge mild steel, the nibbler allows contractors to cut up to seven feet per minute*.
The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor provides the power to cut in heavy applications such as 22-gauge spiral duct seams. The lightweight design gives a balanced and comfortable metal cutting experience and offers users greater access and mobility during the application. For maximum control and productivity, the nibbler features a variable speed dial, an LED work light, and a tool-free, 360-degree die holder rotation.
A chip collection bag comes with the nibbler and can be attached to the die holder to collect the metal punches for quick jobsite cleanup. A die holder extension is available separately, allowing users to easily go over deeper corrugated valleys without the back of the tool restricting the cut.
What we say:
We wondered when a cordless nibbler would be coming from Milwaukee and as usual, the design team exceeded our expectations. Most impressively, they managed to get 18V capacity by using a 12V battery and brushless motor to cut up to 16-gauge metal. With that smaller battery comes a more compact, lighter design, making it more maneuverable in your hands—exactly what you want from a nibbler.
Price: $229.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Polishers
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 21mm Random Orbital Polisher Kit 2685-22HD
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool brings innovation to the professional detailing industry by providing two best-in-class polishers capable of completing both polishing and heavy-correction applications. As the first true corded replacement, the M18 FUEL 15mm and 21mm Random Orbital Polishers deliver more power and control than other cordless polishers on the market, while maintaining the superior ergonomics that users expect.
The professional detailer spends an average of six to eight hours a day with a polisher in their hands. The M18 FUEL 15mm and 21mm Random Orbital Polishers were designed with ideal balance and grip ergonomics to deliver all-day comfort and more control. The polishers produce low levels of vibration and noise, allowing users to hold the tool comfortably for longer periods of time, decreasing user fatigue and increasing daily productivity.
The M18 FUEL 15mm and 21mm Random Orbital Polishers deliver the power professionals require to complete polishing and heavy-correction applications. REDLINK PLUS Intelligence provides motor feedback to the polishers that allows them to maintain speed and power under load, all while delivering strong backing plate rotation that is resistant to stalling on curved surfaces. The backing plates stay cool in application which allows for all-day, heavy-duty use with minimal risk of surface or paint damage. To further reduce the risk of surface damage, the tools were designed with best-in-class clearance of more than 2” from the battery to the work surface.
Both polishers were designed with a variable speed trigger featuring an 8-position speed dial and trigger lock-on button, providing users with ultimate control and smooth transitions during use. The M18 FUEL 15mm Random Orbital Polisher delivers between 2,650-5,100 RPM and the M18 FUEL 21mm Random Orbital Polisher ranges between 2,400-4,500 RPM to deliver the power needed to correct heavy defects.
Harnessing the power of M18 FUEL technology, the polishers deliver best-in-class performance without the hassle of cord management. When paired with an M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 battery, users can expect up to 53 minutes of standard polishing time, and up to 20 minutes of runtime when completing heavy-correction applications. This battery pairing provides optimized tool balance, giving users all-day comfort and more control with a superior combination of power, runtime, and weight.
What we say:
Going cordless with your smaller polishers may be fine, but moving into the heavy-duty polisher sector is another story. In particular, the tool has to be able to work for long periods, often under a heavy load. Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 21mm polisher gets that, pairing a long-running brushless motor with carefully designed ergonomics. While its heavy-correction focus can’t turn your Silverado into a Ram, it can at least help keep the outside looking great!
Price: $559.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Ratchets
Craftsman V-Series 3/8″ Drive Comfort Grip Long Flex Head Ratchet CMMT86326V
What they said:
3.75˚ arc swing for access in tight spaces, 180˚ Articulating Head for difficult-to-reach fasteners, Bi-Material handle for comfort and grip, Precision Engineered Gears for durability and strength, and Enclosed Head Design for dirt infiltration prevention. The V-Series 3/8″ Drive Comfort Grip Long Flex Head Ratchet delivers unprecedented performance to the Craftsman brand. Engineered for professionals, this 3/8″ Drive Comfort Grip Long Flex Head Ratchet is constructed with a Precision Engineered Gear that provides maximum tool life and durability. Its 96-tooth design produces a short 3.75˚ arc swing that enables users to access the tightest of spaces without sacrificing strength.
What we say:
When you see “V-Series” on a Craftsman product, that’s an indication you’re looking at a tool designed around professional needs. In this case, Craftman’s V-Series Comfort Grip Long Flex Head Ratchet (whew, that’s a mouthful!) takes care of multiple issues with one tool. It has a longer reach, perfect for working around truck and heavy equipment engines. It also has a flex head to help you engage fasteners securely and 96-tooth gearing to reduce the swing arc that’s more noticeable on a long handle wrench. Topped off with a comfort grip on the end, its sub-$70 price tag makes adding it to your collection easier than other brands.
Price: $69.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Ratchets
Ridgid 18V 3/8″ Brushless Cordless Ratchet R866011
What they said:
This Brushless Ratchet features a powerful brushless motor that delivers superior fastening and removal speed with up to 250 RPM and 55 ft-lbs. of torque. Built with maximum productivity in mind, RIDGID’s Brushless Ratchet is designed with an ergonomic two-finger variable speed trigger for all-day use. The slim head profile and recessed forward and reverse switch allow this unit to fit into tight spaces. The brushless motor technology delivers maximum performance and longer runtime. This tool is backed by the industry’s best Lifetime Service Agreement, simply register within 90 days of purchase for FREE Parts, Free Service, For LIFE.
What we say:
With 250 RPM and 55 in-lbs of torque, Ridgid’s 18V Brushless 3/8″ Ratchet is a big productivity booster. Its ability to help you loosen bolts or nuts and quickly run them off is much faster than using hand wrenches, plus the brushless motor makes more efficient use of the battery and extends the life of the tool. Better yet, Ridgid’s physical design offers a more comfortable grip than most other cordless ratchets, making this a tool you want to reach for frequently.
Price: $208.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Riveting Tools
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL ¼” Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY 2661-20
What they said:
Milwaukee continues to bring cordless innovation to the transportation maintenance market with solutions that increase user productivity, and safety, and provide pneumatic-like performance. The M18 FUEL ¼” Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY delivers the fastest cordless lockbolt installations with unmatched performance, eliminating the need for compressors and hoses.
The M18 FUEL ¼” Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY is the fastest cordless lockbolt tool in the industry, delivering up to 50% faster installation than other solutions. With faster installation speeds, users are able to increase their productivity and complete more applications back-to-back. When equipped with an M18 REDLITHIUM 5.0 battery, users can install up to 1,200 1/4” aluminum Huck Magna-Grip lockbolts on a single charge.
The M18 FUEL ¼” Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY delivers unmatched performance and is a full replacement for current pneumatic solutions, eliminating compressors and hoses when installing lockbolts. This increases portability and maneuverability for the user and removes the risk of tripping hazards. Designed to withstand harsh shop or assembly plant environments, the tool features an all-metal gearcase, impact strength plastics, and a rubber overmold while the optimized ergonomic design provides maximum comfort for all-day use.
To eliminate the need to switch tools between fasteners, the lockbolt tool can be paired with the appropriate adapter to install Magna-Grip, C6L, C120L, Bobtail, and Hucktainer lockbolts. In addition, the M18 FUEL 1/4” Lockbolt to Blind Rivet Tool Conversion Kit enables the lockbolt tool to be converted into a blind rivet installation tool. By utilizing the kit, the tool will be capable of installing 3/16”, 7/32”, 1/4”, and 9/32” aluminum, steel, and stainless-steel blind rivets. These features allow the M18 FUEL ¼” Lockbolt Tool w/ ONE-KEY to provide users with the ability to install the widest range of riveting fasteners on the market with one solution.
As an added benefit, ONE-KEY provides the ability to track, manage, and secure the lockbolt tool.
What we say:
Tackle lockbolts and rivets with just one tool thanks to the design of Milwaukee’s 2661. Ready to work with a variety of lockbolt brands out of the box, a conversion kit adds the riveting capability, making it an even more versatile tool. Aside from that, it’s fast, and a 5.0Ah battery will keep you working all day and then some. Milwaukee built the inner workings to be able to withstand the demands of production assembly and added One-Key to help your business better track and manage the tool.
Price: $1,399.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Shears
Crescent Tools 10″ Titanium Coated Offset Left Hand Tradesman Shears CW10TL
What they said:
The Crescent Wiss Tradesman Shears feature the first-class forward-
thinking design today’s pros rely on to get the job done right. These
revolutionary shears are 10x sharper than standard shears, thanks to their
razor-sharp serrated edge, full-metal core construction, and long-lasting
titanium coating to extend the lifetime of the blade. Simply put, these are the
most efficient and ergonomic blades on the market today due to their index
finger Control Channel which allows for improved handling and enhanced
power. These shears are perfect for landscaping, flooring, roofing, siding, and
more.
What we say:
If you haven’t tried Crescent’s Titanium Coated Offset Tradesman Shears, you’re missing out. Strong and with the leverage and design to make a comfortable cut in a wide range of materials you’d never try with standard scissors, they are a pleasure to use. Unlike some brands, Crescent thought of our left-handed friends as well with different models for right and left-handed use.
Price: $13.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Sockets
FLEX 10-Piece Thin Wall Deep Well 6-point 1/2″ Drive Impact Nut Socket Set FAM10401-10
What they said:
The FLEX Impact Thin Wall Deep Well Socket Set equips you with maximum strength and durability for high-torque impact driving. The Radius Corners 6-Point Design reduces stripping and breakage while the deep well 3-inch Thin Wall Body helps you dominate tight spaces. Make changes on the fly with the Intuitive Drive Head Indicator and Dual Ball Holes that quickly identify the drive head and easy release with ring groove. The set comes packed in a FLEX STACK PACK storage case for customizable organization and easy accessibility in any case in the STACK PACK lineup.
What we say:
You can make impact sockets as thick as you want until they’re virtually unbreakable, but that doesn’t mean they fit everywhere. FLEX tackles the problem of access with a metallurgy that allows for a thin wall impact socket design yet can withstand high-torque applications. Clear size markings and dual detent hols make them more convenient to use. Even better, the case is part of the Stack Pack system, clipping together with other Stack Pack accessory cases and in two of the Stack Pack tool boxes.
Price: $74.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tire Buffer
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL Low Speed Tire Buffer 2409
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 bare, $269.00 kit
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wrenches
Craftsman V-Series 7-Piece XXL MM/SAE Ratcheting Single Flex Head Double Box End Wrench CMMT87410V
What they said:
5˚ arc swing for access in tight spaces, 180˚ Articulating Head for difficult to reach fasteners, and Long Panel Design for leverage. The V-Series 7-Piece XXL Metric Ratcheting Single Flex Head Double Box End Wrench delivers unprecedented performance to the Craftsman brand. Engineered for professionals, this ratcheting wrench set features a 72 tooth design on one box end, which provides users with a quick and durable ratcheting solution. The extra long handle features a light weight I-beam design that allows for greater control while maintaining optimal strength. Finally, the other end features a 6-point extended box end design, which provides greater access and engagement of fasteners in recessed positions. The vertical wrench rack is design to fit into most metal storage drawers to provide users with an organized method of storing their wrenches.
What we say:
Craftsman goes for a more specialized design than some of the off-the-shelf ratcheting wrenches you can buy. The 72-tooth ratcheting end includes a 180° flex head, helping you engage fasteners at odd angles. Rather than going with a basic open end on the other side, it’s also a box end with a little something special. The end is extended to reach in a engage recessed fasteners that standard box ends can’t touch.
Price: $169.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Torque Wrenches
Milwaukee Tool 3/8 & 1/2 M12 FUEL Ratcheting Torque Wrench w/ONE-KEY 2465-22
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool is proud to unveil the industry’s first motorized torque wrenches, delivering increased productivity, precise torque accuracy, and advanced reporting functionality. The M12 FUEL 3/8” and 1/2” Digital Torque Wrenches w/ ONE-KEY deliver 50% faster installation times, replacing hand tools or the traditional two-tool installation processes and providing more accuracy to reduce the over-torqueing of fasteners. In addition, these tools enhance the overall torque reporting experience by generating torque data and customizable reports for inspectors and owners through One-Key.
These tools combine a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor and a digital torque wrench into one tool to deliver up to 50% faster installation times, with precise torque accuracy of up to ±2% CW, ±3% CCW of full scale for torque critical fasteners.
The Process
•Step 1: Set the torque target by application
•Step 2: Pull the trigger to max RPM
oTool will automatically stop prior to target torque to prevent over-torqueing
•Step 3: Finish by hand to reach target torque
oThe tool will notify the user is the proper torque was applied through sound, vibration, LED lights, and an on-screen notification.
•Step 4 (Optional): Press “Save” to record the final torque event
Up to 28,500 torque events can be saved on the tool, and unlimited events can be stored within the One-Key™ app. These One-Key™ reports can be easily customized and organized for the job at hand. In addition, One-Key™ allows users to wirelessly connect to the tool through their smartphone to customize the tool settings, track its location, manage it in their equipment inventory, and lock-out the tool for added security.
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: $699.00 bare, $749.00 kit
For more information, click here.