The award-winning 2022 hand tools category introduced several really innovative takes on otherwise familiar products. As we all know, hand tools—while not as “flashy” as power tools” form the backbone of a majority of the trades. From electrical and HVAC to plumbing and woodworking, reliable hand tools get the job done. Innovation just makes them all the better.
This year, the 2022 award-winning hand tools took the Pro Tool Innovation Awards to a new level. With increased features, better ergonomics, and more functionality, these tools really address some significant pain points.
WINNER – Bolt Cutters
Milwaukee Tool Fiberglass Bolt Cutters w/ PIVOTMOVE Rotating Arms 48-22-4218
What they said:
Our Fiberglass Bolt Cutters with PIVOTMOVE Rotating Handles are engineered to give you the best access and are available in 18″ and 24″ sizes. The adaptable rotating handles allow you to make more cuts around obstacles common in utility environments. The fiberglass bolt cutters are 1000V UL classified to provide you with added security. The forged steel bolt cutter blades are custom heat-treated for maximum durability. Bolt Lock secures the pivot bolts to prevent loosening. The 18″ bolt cutters have slim ergonomic handles allowing for comfortable use in multiple orientations. The MILWAUKEE Fiberglass Bolt Cutters with PIVOTMOVE Rotating Handles have lanyard holes integrated through the handles for easy tethering.
What we say:
When standard bolt cutters won’t fit into the area you need to access, your options are limited. Milwaukee’s new Fiberglass Bolt Cutters with PivotMove Rotating Arms change the game in your favor. By pressing a button on the joints, you can rotate the handles to give the head access without losing your ability to actually cut the bolt. When that area also happens to be an electrical hazard, the fiberglass handles offer 1000V-rated protection.
Price: $149.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Chalk Lines
OX TOOLS OX PRO KEVLAR CHALK REEL OX-P505830
What they said:
The OX Pro Kevlar Chalk Reel is the first chalk reel to ever feature a genuine Kevlar line. In a partnership, we developed with DuPont to create a line with ultimate durability. The line on it lasts 8x longer than our previous model and 4x longer than the leading competitors (confirmed by 3rd party testing). Additionally, the line has the least amount of stretch out of all the lines on the market, ensuring the line stays taught. We offer 2 models, one with a thicker line, another with a thinner one.
What we say:
There have been plenty of tweaks to the trusty chalk line over the years, but not much improvement has come to the line itself. Ox Tools solves a couple of problems by making their latest line stronger and with less stretch. The magic is in the material: Kevlar. Genuine DuPont Kevlar in the line means you don’t have to pull as hard to get the line taught and it’s going to resist abrasion better than other chalk lines.
Price: $26.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Locking Clamps
Malco Products SBC 11” Locking C-Clamp with Swivel Pads LP11SP
What they said:
Eagle Grip Locking C-Clamps are part of the first full line of locking tools manufactured at Malco’s plant in DeWitt, Nebraska, the original birthplace of the locking pliers. We’ve designed these tools to exceed the highest industry standard for quality, and in our testing, Eagle Grip Locking C-Clamps outperformed the competition on every measure. Midwest values and dedication to craftsmanship are baked into every tool and are what sets Eagle Grip apart from the competition. Forged from premium American steel (AISI 9260), Malco uses a premium heat treat process on the jaw to increase strength, hardness, toughness, and resistance to shock. Brazed joints are made to withstand the heavy force generated by twisting or pulling. Eagle Grip is designed and built to meet the rigorous demands of professional users and is backed by Malco’s 72-year heritage of innovation, quality, and dependability. Here’s more:
•Eagle Grip C-Clamps consistently maintain a tighter joint condition to reduce side-to-side movement, twist and the overall “sloppy” feel present in similar products.
•Each Eagle Grip tool goes through rigorous testing to ensure that they are the toughest on the market. Through in-house tests, Eagle Grip C-Clamps outperformed the competition on every measure, including tighter clamping strength (As tested using ASME standard locking load testing methodology), permanent set adjustment, and more.
•This locking C-Clamp features wide jaws for enhanced versatility when working with almost any shape or application.
•Prevent damage in a common tool failure area with a patented Power Ring (Pat. No. D901,999) which provides increased thread strength and overall durability.
•Brazed to withstand forces generated by twisting and pulling, even under extreme use conditions.
•The smooth polished trigger allows for easy release.
•A larger, more comfortable hardened adjustment knob features an exclusive coating for increased lubricity and accepts a 5/16” hex key for added versatility while adjusting clamping pressure.
• Heat-treated jaws for increased strength.
•Features a long-life spring for frequent everyday use.
•Swivel pads reduce surface damage by distributing clamping force Eagle Grip is designed to deliver legendary quality, toughness and strength.
What we say:
For Malco Products, their Made in the USA designation is more than just a symbol of pride for their locking C-clamps. Its higher-quality materials and more refined metallurgical processes create a better tool. They hold tighter, are stronger, and last longer than other brands’ clamps in the same class. Get your hands on a pair to see for yourself.
Price: $54.86
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Gauges
MICROJIG FITFINDER 1/2 Gauge FN12
What they said:
MICROJIG has a history of creating innovative tools that change the way people think about woodworking. That tradition continued when MICROJIG introduced the all-new FITFINDER 1/2 Gauge. The FITFINDER automatically and effortlessly finds the center of workpieces by using simple geometry, without the need for math or measuring.
MICROJIG ingeniously turned to 2,000-year-old math—the Pythagorean Theorem—to solve modern woodworking problems.
The product works with a pair of legs that move together. When woodworkers set the P2 leg on top of the material, the P3 leg automatically moves to indicate the exact center of the stock up to three inches thick.
Before, finding the exact center and depth of workpieces required measurements that many times had to be exact to fractions of an inch, with no room for error. As a woodworker, making all the required measurements and cuts was time-consuming and frustrating, only to find out the measurements were slightly off, meaning more material and starting again. The FITFINDER takes the guesswork out of measuring with its innovative design.
Anyone who works with wood understands the power of such a tool. The FITFINDER can be used for everything from setting fences and transferring cutting depths to positioning band saw fences for resawing, dialing in router bits for edge banding, or centering pieces on the lathe for spindle work. It is essential for perfectly fitting overlap joints, half-lap joints or rail and stile joints.
With its innovative design, the FITFINDER increases productivity by reducing the need for repeated measurements and mathematical calculations down a process that takes seconds.
An added benefit? Cost savings. Because the FITFINDER takes the guesswork out of measuring, there is a not only savings in material that must be scrapped due to incorrect measurements and cuts, but woodworkers also save money and space in the shop by not having to purchase and store a wide variety of measuring tools that are less accurate.
The FITFINDER is not only an awesome tool for woodworkers and DIYers everywhere, but it is also a true MICROJIG innovation. This product takes something simple—basic geometry developed in ancient times—and turns it into a smart tool that makes working in the shop easier, better, and more intuitive. It’s exactly what MICROJIG aims to do with its products, and it is deserving of the Pro Tool Innovation Award.
What we say:
When you need to find the exact center of your material, near misses cost money and time. MicroJig is making the process much easier with their FitFinder 1/2 Guage Jig. Simply slide the jig’s moving section up, let it rest on top of your workpiece and the front automatically sets the precise 1/2 depth. Lock it in and transfer it to your blade height, mark it on your workpiece, or however best helps you out. It doesn’t need batteries and it takes just seconds to operate.
Price: $35
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- General Tools ANGLE-IZER Locking Contour Gauge with Extra Long Pins 834X
- General Tools ANGLE-IZER Digital T-Bevel with Bubble Level 928
WINNER – Hammers
Boss Hammer Co. LLC Pro Series 14 oz BH14TIS
What they said:
The BOSS Pro Series Titanium Hammer was built to be the best performing hammer in its class. Available in 14 oz and 16 oz head weight options, the powerful Pro Series Titanium Hammer drives like a 28oz steel hammer and conquers construction, concrete, framing, and anything else you throw it at. This lightweight titanium hammer is fitted with an over-molded no-slip rubber grip, BOSS Signature Squaring system laser engraved into the handle, magnetic nail starter, and dual-side nail pullers that extract any nail with ease. The BOSS Pro Series Titanium Hammer swings light, strikes hard, and feels better than any hammer you have ever swung. If you are looking for the best quality titanium hammer, go with the Boss Pro Series, you will not be disappointed. Includes warranty. Proudly Made in the USA.
What we say:
Boss started with the concept of a titanium hammer and built more function into it. Just 14 ounces at the head, it drives like a 28-ounce framing hammer. It has nail pullers and a magnetic nail starter as we like to see on premium hammers. It also includes a squaring system laser-etched into the head, helping you mark a miter angle against the flat side of the handle—something you don’t get from other brands.
Price: $225
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Pocket Knives
Crescent Tools 3-1/4″ Drop Point Composite Handle Pocket Knife CPK325C
What they said:
Crescent Tools cutting-edge, new line of Pocket Knives features a deep pocket belt clip position, keeping them out of sight when stored or carried.
These pocket knives also feature a ball bearing assist design for smooth, single-handed deployment. Additionally, each knife is equipped with an ergonomic, easy-to-hold handle for maximum grip and precision cutting.
What we say:
Just because you aren’t paying $200 for your pocket knife doesn’t mean you should miss out on a quality design. Crescent starts with 5Cr15MoV steel and shapes it into a highly-functional drop point blade. From there, it folds into a very comfortable handle design where a ball bearing and finger flipper quickly and easily deploy the blade. Best of all may just be its sub-$15 price tag.
Price: $14.98
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Safety Knives
OLFA USA INC Quick-Change Concealed Blade Safety Knife SK-16
What they said:
Cutting tough materials has never been easier thanks to the OLFA SK-16 Quick-Change Concealed Blade Safety Knife. The touch-safe blade requires no activation – simply pull it through materials to start cutting. The exposed blade is safely concealed within an open cutting channel for easy use. The wider channel opening minimizes resistance and allows for a large range of cutting materials. The blade guard tips guide the cut while protecting the goods under the cutting surface.
This versatile cutter comes preloaded with a premium stainless-steel replaceable blade head for optimum efficiency. In head-to-head testing, the OLFA blade cut over 7x more single-wall corrugate than the leading competitor. With its quick-change blade release system, blade changes are simple and efficient.
The OLFA Quick-Change Concealed Blade Safety Knife is designed for lasting comfort. The durable fiberglass-reinforced handle withstands drops and tough work environments. The curved ergonomic handle reduces wrist fatigue for prolonged use. A metal tape splitter completes the handle. Use this to reduce blade wear for longer blade life.
Designed for all trades, the Quick-Change Concealed Blade Safety Knife handles a variety of materials from corrugate to cable ties, plastic strapping bands, pallet wrap, carpet, rubber sheeting, flooring protection, and more.
The concealed blade makes it the safest choice on the job for many tasks. It’s both safe and easy to use.
What we say:
Whether it’s workplace policy or personal choice, the exposed blade of a utility knife isn’t always the best choice. OLFA’s ingenious safety knife design comes to the rescue for a wide range of cutting tasks. With openings on both sides, you can cut open boxes easily while protective tips keep whatever’s underneath safe. Those tips also reduce the gap to the blade enough that your fingers won’t reach it accidentally. When it’s time to change blades, just hit the quick release button and pop the new one in place.
Price: $16.00
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Utility Knives
ToughBuilt Industries Inc. Reload Utility Knife TB-H4S2-03
What they said:
The ToughBuilt Reload Utility Knife is an ingenious reinvention of the standard fixed-handle utility knife. This rapid-change hand tool is crafted from pro-grade materials with a patented magazine-fed reloading blade mechanism that accepts any standard utility blade and carries a class-leading 15-blade total payload.
Freshly loaded magazines can be charged into the knife with a snap. Once a worn edge is removed with a press of the blade-release button, another is driven into use from the action-ready 5-blade chamber by an auto-reloading thumb slider. With an additional ten-blade stock in the lower reservoir on each magazine and two mags included with the knife, Pros can equip multiple edge options. The Reload Utility Knife magazines will accept any standard utility blade, from aftermarket specialty blades to sacrificial blades to our rugged ToughBuilt hook-nose blades and incredibly sharp carbon-steel razor blades, both of which come included with the tool.
Operating precisely like a standard semi-automatic sidearm, the magazines on the Reload Utility Knife are released with a push lever on the side of the ergonomic grip. They are spring-loaded to drop away clear or into an open hand. The knife is crafted with demanding worksites that often involve rough materials and repeated cuts in mind; Professionals, especially those like roofers and waterproofers, flooring and insulation installers, decal artists, warehouse stockers, tube, and plumbing specialists, and printing dye manufacturers, will find that with this knife, they are finally free of the cumbersome process of stopping to take apart internal screws, fumble with tension rods, or deconstruct the knife handle to make a change.
What we say:
ToughBuilt took the pain of reloading utility knife blades and made it fast, easy, and fun. Going with the concept of magazine reloading from the firearms industry, a release lever drops your empty blade magazine out so you can pop a new one in. To change blades, push the release button with the old blade extended, pull it straight out, and then cycle the slider to load and extend a new blade. Each magazine holds 5 blades ready to load and an additional 10 blades in reserve.
Price: $23.00
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Levels
SOLA Magnetic Spirit Levels w/ Lateral Installation BIG REDM
What they said:
SOLA has developed a completely new installation method, specifically for magnetic spirit levels, where the magnets are inserted into the profile from the side. This brings considerable advantages for the user in terms of precision, adhesive force, cleanliness, and safety.
In standard magnetic spirit levels, the magnets are installed directly into the measuring surface. However, the lateral magnet installation concept developed by SOLA has the clear advantage of leaving the measuring surface entirely smooth. Impractical recesses on the spirit level’s measuring surface are a thing of the past – the recesses tend to collect dirt and metal chips, which are difficult to remove. The smooth measuring surface is easy to clean, allows for precise work and reduces the risk of scratches on sensitive painted surfaces. This also reduces the risk of injury caused by metal chips which adhere to the magnets.
The laterally installed, extra-strong neodymium magnets are ‘rare-earth’ magnets and ensure the highest adhesive force – whether they are positioned horizontally or vertically. The magnetic spirit levels guarantee a strong hold, without slipping, even on pipes and painted or curved steelwork components. They are ideal for any type of work which benefits from hands-free operation, such as aligning and adjusting metal posts or beams, and aligning wall and ceiling profiles during drywall installation.
The laterally installed magnets are particularly useful for situations where the spirit level is exposed to heat generation or vibrations. This installation method makes it impossible for the magnets to loosen or be pulled out, and they always stay securely installed.
All magnetic SOLA aluminum profile spirit levels will be switched over to lateral magnet installation. This includes the very popular, red-coated models BIG REDM and the magnetic variant of the digital spirit level BIG RED digital.
What we say:
Sola made a big improvement to magnetic levels by reimagining the magnets’ installation. Going in laterally instead of installing through the bottom, the base has an uninterrupted surface. It’s easier to clean off metal shavings that stick to the magnets and doesn’t produce build-up around the magnet seams the way other levels can. At the end of the day, you can work more accurately with less risk of damaging finished workpieces.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Marking
OX TOOLS Pro Tuff Carbon Marking Pencil OX-P503210
What they said:
The OX TUFF CARBON Marking Pencil is a mechanical carpenters pencil with loads of thoughtful design elements. The TUFF CARBON is able to write on just about anything, wet or dry. It can be used on wood, wet wood, oily surfaces, metal, tile, concrete, bricks, glass, drywall, and more! It’s designed with a thin steel tube for reaching hard spaces. The case and pencil itself are square, this is to stop the pencil from rolling away from the user. The built-in sharpener on the case is located in the easiest position for sharpening. Compared to competitors who put them on the bottom, our sharpener allows you to leave the case clipped to your bag and still sharpen. The belt clip on the case is built with aggressive teeth to ensure it says in place. We also offer different colored leads and leads specifically for tile.
What we say:
Jobsite material marking is a challenge thanks to the messy environments we have to work in. Ox Tools is making it easier and more reliable with their Pro Tuff Carbon Marking Pencil. Capable of writing on a variety of wet, dry, and dusty surfaces, it has several helpful features to set it apart. A steel tube extends your ability to mark surfaces from further away without breaking the carbon lead. It won’t roll away on you, the built-in sharpener is accessible while clipped, and it comes with 4 colors to help you deal with different material colors.
Price: $20.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Tape Measures
Crescent Lufkin Shockforce Nite Eye G2 25-ft Tape Measure L1225B-02
What they said:
Crescent Lufkin is once again revolutionizing the tool market with the bolder, more durable Shockforce G2 Measuring Tape. This innovative tape features a wider, thicker blade with eye-catching, easy-to-read markings on both sides.
It also features a Blade Barrier Coating that extends the blade life by 3x. Additionally, the Shockforce G2 can stand a 120-foot drop test thanks to its bolstered case design. Performance and productivity are always in reach thanks to the Shockforce G2’s new and improved belt clip design. The Shockforce G2 is available in 3 game-changing models: Standard, Auto-Lock, and Magnetic. For professional tool users looking to go the distance, the
Crescent Lufkin Shockforce G2 more than measures up.
What we say:
We were impressed with Crescent Lufkin’s original Shockforce Nite Eye tape measure and the Gen-2 is even better. It features a reverse-contrast blade with a black background and bright yellow/green markings and a durable blade coating. The hook grabs from nearly any angle and the case is now tough enough to survive drops tests from greater heights than its competition.
Price: $27.98
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Multi-tool
HART 19-in-1 Multi Tool HHTMT01
What they said:
A painter’s multi-tool can be one of the most time-saving tools in your tool bag. The HART 19-in-1 Multi-Tool is a great example. It’s chock full of useful tools, such as a nail puller, chisel/scraper, bottle opener, wire stripper, 4 slotted screwdrivers, cutting edge, concave scraper, 2 nut drivers, 5-gallon bucket opener, hex drive bit holder, paint can opener, roller cleaner, double-ended drive bit—and even a mini roller cleaner. What else do you need? The blade is made from a golden stainless steel that’s both rust-resistant and easier to clean. Since prepping a room for painting can take hours, you’ll also appreciate the comfortable micro-textured handle. With this essential tool, you’ll be prepared to tackle any paint preparation job that comes your way. This tool has the most features in its class in the market at an Every Day Low Price!
What we say:
HART has a lot going for it on its painter’s multi-tool. 19 goings-on to be exact. All the tools you need for your paint prep are thoughtfully arranged around a comfortable handle. If you know HART, you know it’s going to be a great value, and at less than $10, they knock this one out of the park.
Price: $9.88
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Nut Drivers
Klein Tools 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket with Handle 32900
What they said:
The 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket Driver brings efficiency and versatility to everyday work. It features six interchangeable hex sizes plus a bit holding feature all stored on the driver shaft in any order or orientation. This blade can quickly and easily change between a screwdriver handle (included) and an impact driver, meaning work can get done faster. The multi-function 1/4’’ socket has both shallow and deep configurations for added versatility. Powerful rare-earth magnets securely hold the bits and hex head fasteners in place, and the sockets are color coded for easy identification. Detachable sockets allow for easy removal of metal shaving from the magnet. This patent-pending design is great for tight spaces, low clearance, and long-reach applications.
What we say:
There are plenty of multi-tools on the market and Klein has a history of figuring out clever ways to save room in your tool bag. That trend continues with their 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket. This time, they found a way to keep 6 different socket sizes on one tool along with a bit holder, and everything stores securely onboard. Plus, the flippable design of the sockets gives them a pass-through that makes them easier to clean build-up from. Better yet, the screwdriver shaft features a 1/4-inch hex design that works perfectly with your impact driver.
Price: $29.97
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Pliers
IRWIN VISE-GRIP PowerSlot High-Leverage Pliers IWHT84000
What they said:
The new IRWIN VISE-GRIP PowerSlot High-Leverage Pliers feature a curved slot design that significantly reduces the cutting effort needed to make cuts. This curved PowerSlot design maximizes the mechanical advantage when it is needed the most, providing 50% reduced cutting effort* with the lineman’s plier and 30% reduced cutting effort** with the diagonal plier. Compound action pliers typically have a trade-off between cutting effort and jaw capacity, but this technology minimizes the trade-off, making cuts even easier. The PowerSlot Pliers have additional elevated features for strength and durability. They are made of 60CrV steel for maximum strength, and the cutting edges are laser hardened for durability. A unique ED Coating (Electrophoretic Deposition) provides superior corrosion resistance versus traditional anti-rust finishes. Finally, these pliers have 3-shot bi-material grips for comfort and control, and the Lineman’s includes a fish tape puller for added functionality.
*average reduction in cutting effort when cutting 12/2 thermoplastic-sheathed cable vs IRWIN® 2078209
**average reduction in cutting effort when cutting 12/2 thermoplastic-sheathed cable vs IRWIN® 2078308
What we say:
Irwin’s PowerSlot design isn’t new, but if you’ve used any of their cutting pliers that include it, you know the mechanical advantage they offer. Now it gets even better. By shifting the PowerSlot to a curved shape, your hands reap the benefits of far less effort with higher leverage while closing the gap on the trade-off of jaw capacity.
Price: $29.98
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Locking Pliers
Malco Products SBC 10” Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter LP10WC
What they said:
Eagle Grip Locking Pliers are part of the first full line of locking tools manufactured at Malco’s plant in DeWitt, Nebraska, the original birthplace of the locking pliers. We’ve designed these tools to exceed the highest industry standard for quality, and in our testing, Eagle Grip Locking Pliers outperformed the competition on every measure. In fact, Eagle Grip Curved Jaw Locking Pliers are the strongest locking pliers ever made (Verified by 3rd party testing of the LP10WC (curved jaw locking pliers with wire cutter) VS. leading traditional locking pliers.) We devote time to the little details that allow us to produce the best tool possible, like using a better grade of steel (AISI 9260) and a premium heat treat process on the jaws to increase strength, hardness, toughness, and resistance to shock. Eagle Grip pliers are made with teeth that keep their definition and resist rounding so you have maximum grip strength for the life of the tool. Ideal for professionals who work with auto, welding, agriculture, or sheet metal. Here’s more:
•Power Ring (Pat. No. D901,999) provides increased thread strength, providing increased clamping force.
•Precision ground wire cutter with specialized heat treatment for added durability.
•Pinned and brazed upper jaw ensure a superior bond between the upper jaw and the plier body; even under extreme use conditions.
•Bright nickel finish for classic look and feel.
•The smooth polished trigger allows for easy release.
•Oversized adjustment screw with wide knob provides a comfortable gripping surface, while our proprietary coating makes adjustments easier on your hands.
For additional clamping force, use a 5/16 in. (8 mm) hex key while the tool is locked in place.
What we say:
The development team behind Malco Products is obsessed, and that’s a good thing for folks who use their tools. Made in the USA, their curved locking jaw pliers use high-quality materials and a dialed-in heat-treatment process to produce the strongest locking pliers you can get your hands on. In addition to the clamping strength in the jaws, the overall tool is stronger, ensuring you enjoy the benefits of these well-designed pliers for a lifetime.
Price: $44.29
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Pry Bars
IRWIN 2-in-1 Steel Flat Pry Bar IWHT55150/IWHT55210
What they said:
The IRWIN 2-in-1 Spring Steel Flat Bar features an Extra Large Strikable Surface which provides more access when working in tight spaces. The Extra Large Strikable Surface also acts as a safe Knuckle Clearing Handle when removing siding and many other applications. The extended area also allows for the bar to be able to pry stacked 2×4 blocks. Its Forged spring steel construction adds extra strength and durability. The bar features multiple nail pullers for increased versatility.
What we say:
We love that Irwin’s 2-in-1 Steel Flat Pry Bar includes an extra-large striking surface that doubles to provide some knuckle protection. The combination means you can swing more freely when you’re driving between materials you’re working to separate. As a tool destined to deal with more abuse than most, it’s making a tough job that much easier.
Price: $IWHT55150- $11.98 IWHT55210 – $20.98
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Saws
HART Multi Blade Utility Saw HHCTSM1
What they said:
HART is adding another item to its diverse lineup of Hand Saws. The new Multi-Blade Utility Saw, like many other HART products, includes a quick and easy tool-free blade change. This 3-blade set conveniently cuts all types of materials including: Metal (24 TPI bi-metal hack-saw blade), Drywall/Soft Wood (8 TPI jab-saw blade), as well as Wood & Plastic/PVC (14 TPI Recip Blade). This product is industry-leading as most multi-blade saws do not accept all three types of blades, and while most hacksaw blades included are carbon steel, HART provides the upgrade of bi-metal.
What we say:
HART delivers another great value with their Multi-Blade Utility Saw. Featuring 8TPI, 14 TPI, and 24 TPI blades, you have what you need to cut through most materials you’ll come across on your DIY projects and home repairs. Does the blade connection look familiar? That’s the same design that installs on a reciprocating saw, opening up even more options for compatible blades.
Price: $12.97
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Multi-Bit Screwdrivers
Klein Tools 27-in-1 Multi-Bit Precision Screwdriver with Tamperproof Bits 32327
What they said:
The 27-in-1 Multi-Bit Precision Screwdriver offers 26 precision tips conveniently stored right in the handle of the driver, plus an integrated 3.5mm nut driver. The stainless-steel barrel contains powerful Rare-Earth magnets for securing bits and fasteners. Housing these industrial-strength, double-sided bits in the handle eliminates the need for a bulky bit block or case. Additionally, a spin cap provides optimum and precise control, and a cushion-grip handle allows for maximum comfort.
What we say:
We wouldn’t fault you for thinking Klein is going a little overboard by putting 27 different tools into their Precision Multi-Bit Screwdriver. On the other hand, if you’re in IT, it’s about time. With a double-layer of bits storing inside the handle, 26 precision bits are there including tamperproof bits that many electronics screwdrivers omit. Taking up a very small amount of space in your tool bag, it’s the multi-bit screwdriver everyone who works on electronics needs.
Price: $19.97
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Precision Screwdrivers
RYOBI 6 PC PRECISION SCREWDRIVER SET RHSDP01
What they said:
The RYOBI 6-Piece Precision Screwdriver Set is an ideal solution for precise applications such as working with electronics, models, or watches. The rotating cap provides additional control during screw tightening or loosening applications, and the tip identifier allows for quick and easy screwdriver identification. Additional features include a comfort grip handle for ease of use and an anti-roll design that keeps screwdrivers where you place them. Keep all six screwdrivers organized with the included storage case with latching handle for easy portability.
What we say:
When you’re working with the tiny screws associated with electronics, eyewear, and more, you’re working on a whole different scale. Ryobi includes three Phillips and three slotted screwdrivers to assist you in those endeavors. Each driver has a comfort grip, rotating cap, and tip identifier along with a non-rolling physical design. The whole set packs up in a case that fits easily into a tool bag or drawer.
Price: $6.97
For more information, click here.
WINNER – T-Handle Screwdrivers
CRAFTSMAN Universal L-to-T Hex Key Set CMHT26028
What they said:
The Craftsman Universal L-to-T Handle utilizes a new patented design that quickly and easily converts any size of Hex SAE, Metric, or Torx L Key to a T-handle when added grip or torque is required. Simply lift the lid, drop the hex key into the opening of the handle, and turn the torque dial until the L-key is secured in place.
Each key in the set is constructed of strong steel with black oxide coating for added durability and corrosion resistance, with a ball-end to engage and turn fasteners at various angles.
What we say:
Ask most of our team what the best way to improve the hex wrench is and most of us would tell you to avoid them at all costs. However, they’re dead useful and Craftsman has a way to make the lowly hex wrench far easier and more comfortable to use. Their L-to-T handle allows a hex wrench to slip in and become a T-handle hex driver. Don’t worry about varying widths: the torque dial on the outside helps seat each size correctly. Plus, Craftsman includes ball-end wrench so you can engage fasteners from an angle when you can’t get directly over the top of them.
Price: $20.98
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Sharpening
MPOWER Tools SBS-Triple Diamond Stone-Sharpening Station
What they said:
Introducing the World’s most comprehensive bench stone sharpening package… The SBS is “The BIG BOSS”
A Life Time of Sharpening: MPOWER’s revolutionary New Side By Side (SBS) means this Diamond Stone will really last forever!
Instead of having to throw away an expensive tool because a small part of it is worn.
MP’s unique manufacturing process allows a damaged diamond surface to be inexpensively and easily replaced by the owner.
10 YEAR – Bench Stone Guarantee
The Side by Side (SBS) has been in development for over 4 years solid and is the most complete sharpening package available anywhere on the planet.
The process of properly sharpening a tool be it a ¼” bevel edge chisel or a plane iron involves a number of essential elements, all of which are cunningly stored in the SBS canvas carry/storage case.
What we say:
If you obsess over getting the perfect cutting edge on your tools, it’s quite the process. MPOWER’s SBS-Triple Diamond Stone-Sharpening Station can take some of the frustration out while providing outstanding results. Standing for “Side-by-Side”, the SBS starts with three levels of diamond stone grits that you simply move from one to the other as you go. There’s no need to flip a stone around when it’s time to change grits. Once you’re done with that, move to the leather strops that fit on top of the stones and apply the three grades of polishing wax to wrap up an incredibly sharp finish.
Price: $250
For more information, click here.