We look to innovative blades, bits, and other accessories to help us cut, drive, and/or fasten more quickly. The right accessory can net you more profit and jobsite productivity. In fact, the right accessory or fastener can even improve the final product and yield cleaner cuts, holes, and surfaces.
The opposite also holds true—which is why highlighting new and innovative accessories means so much to us. The Pro Tool Innovation Awards seeks out the year’s most innovative accessories and fasteners and highlights them for the industry to see. From bits and blades to guides and extenders, the following are the PTIA 2024 Accessories Awards winners!
WINNER – Circ Saw Blades
CMT USA, Inc. Xtreme Framing 7-1/4″ 24T Zero Gravity Saw Blade
What they said:
The CMT Xtreme Framing 7-1/4” x 24-tooth, “Zero Gravity” features a low mass plate design— CMT’s Patented design to improve battery life when used on cordless saws by reducing the initial power draw needed to reach the maximum RPM during start-up. In addition, the ample slots in the plate keep the blade cooler and ventilate the machine, corded or cordless, better than any other design, leading to increased blade life. Secured Tooth Geometry guarantees the blade better handles impact with hard and thick materials. Designed to ensure the longest tool life under the most demanding conditions, tips are brazed deep inside the blade plate, enabling it to withstand brutal working conditions and increase impact resistance.
Operator safety is taken into consideration by the extended anti-kickback design of the plate’s shoulder. This greatly reduces the chance of injury, due to kickback of the saw, during the cutting process. In productivity tests, the Zero Gravity blade delivered 5X more cuts than competitors on wood with embedded nails.
What we say:
As soon as you see the CMT Zero Gravity Xtreme Framing saw blade, you immediately see something different than a traditional construction circular saw accessory. The secured tooth geometry physically prevents the easy breaking of carbide teeth by keeping nails from dropping in between the blade teeth as it cuts. The low-mass blade also features lots of venting to keep the blade cool when cutting and help evacuate chips. Lastly, the PTFE coating does a great job resisting buildup when cutting through roofing materials and other surfaces that can slow down a blade over time.
Price: $10
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Multi-Tool Blades
DEWALT DWA4283 3-Sided General Purpose Oscillating Blade
What they said:
Take on challenging remodeling work with the DEWALT® General Purpose 3-Sided Oscillating Blade (DWA4283) that’s engineered to deliver fast performance. Designed to make plunge and rip cuts in drywall and cut through wood with nails, this durable bi-metal blade features a proprietary 3-sided design. With a cutting width of 2 1/8 in. (54 mm), this blade is ideal for installing single-gang electrical boxes. This 3-Sided Oscillating Blade offers tool-free blade changes for convenience and speed on tough jobsites.
What we say:
Having done a ton of drywall cutting and plunge cuts with multi-tool blades, the DeWalt DWA4283 3-Sided General Purpose Oscillating Blade offers something truly new. Now, after plunging into the material, you can effectively move horizontally as needed to widen or expand your cut as needed to get that perfect box, slot, or shape needed for any application. Electricians, installers, and remodelers should find this a truly useful accessory to keep in their tool bag.
Price: $25
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Table Saw Blades
CMT 8″ x 12+12T LOCKED DADO PRO
What they said:
CMT is proud to introduce a brand new Locked Dado Pro set unlike any other! This is the very first Dado ever deemed UNI EN847 compliant. This means that while the Dado is rotating, the assembled elements will never come into contact with each other! This is possible thanks to unique blade body design and ‘never before seen’ special “lock spacers”.
CMT’s Exclusive PVC lock spacers prevent the contact between cutting edges. If a manufacturer’s saw blade brake is activated, the lock spacers ensure carbide tips do not come in contact with each other. This greatly increases operator safety and shields them from the possibility of carbide shrapnel.
The CMT design enables the dado to be installed as one complete unit, rather than installing each component (shims, spacers, blades) individually. This greatly reduces downtime and increases productivity when adjusting the width of your groove. Again, CMT stands alone as the only manufacturer with a product of this convenience and efficiency. The blade is made in Italy.
What we say:
Dado blades have encountered some difficulty of late with respect to safety recommendations and meeting international standards. As the first blade to meet UNI EN847 compliance, CMT Orange Tool has developed a safer, more accessible option for woodworkers looking to simplify the job of making rabbets and similar cuts in wood using a table saw. We love the single-piece installation without the need for separate spacers. One blade lets you cut flat grooves anywhere from 15/64″ to 13/16″. CMT manufactures this saw blade in Italy, so we can reasonably expect the same level of quality from it as we do from their other circular saw blades.
Price: $134.93
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Metal Drill Bits
Drill America nACo (Nano-Composite) Blue Coated Annular Cutters (ANC Line)
What they said:
Drill America GSC Series – Gold Stepped Point Cobalt Drill Bits – start easier, drill faster, increase lifespan, and reduce heat compared to standard drill bits. GSC bits combine Step Drill and Drill Bit technology into one and can be used to enlarge existing holes or create new, smoother holes in a wide range of materials such as acrylics, steel, metal, brass, and the toughest of hard metals. Manufactured to Aerospace Standard 907 GSC drills are made from M35 Cobalt and have a 135° split point tip for self-centering and reducing thrust with a 3-Flat Shank to provide extra secure hold in your chuck.
What we say:
One of the most difficult issues with metal drilling—at least when using a handheld drill, is keeping to your starting point. The split point on the Drill America nACo (Nano-Composite) Blue Coated Annular Cutters significantly reduces that problem. More than that, the integrated step-bit tips let you take existing holes and enlarge them without binding up the drill, as you might encounter when performing that task with standard bits. These M35 Cobalt steel bits should retain their edge for a long time and work in a variety of materials—from acrylic and brass to hard steels and stainless.
Price: $501 (29-pc set)
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drill Guides
Visa Tools LLC Hole Troll
What they said:
The Hole Troll solves significant profitability and productivity issues for builders and construction professionals by enabling them to quickly center and use hole saws over existing holes or in scenarios when a pilot bit is missing, broken, or undesired. This solution can save valuable downtime spent on workarounds and tool repairs, materials waste and damage, and injuries and related costs.
The Hole Troll is different from existing tools for enlarging pre-existing holes or enabling pilotless hole saws: 1. It is a recyclable consumable; 2. It can work on a variety of surfaces; 3. It can work with many hole saw types and sizes; 4. It enables quick, visual centering of a hole; 4. It can work without or with a bit; 5. It is portable; 6. It has a low per-unit cost; and 7. It is made in the USA by Americans.
Common workarounds for enlarging existing holes exist, including bridging/splinting the hole, cutting, drilling, and gluing a core inside the hole, fabricating a guide plate, and routering the hole. More unconventional methods for enlarging holes include using reciprocating saws, rotary cutters, torches, or manual stabilization of the hole saw. These can all be time-consuming, may require additional tools or materials, or potentiate risks.
Solutions for missing pilot bits are limited to fabricated guide plates; otherwise, a trip to the store for replacement bits or a new hole saw assembly is necessary if the arbor is not serviceable.
What we say:
The Hole Troll is a brilliant product to keep in your toolbox that can help you enlarge existing holes with far less frustration. Center the guide over the hole, fasten it in place (nails, screws, hot glue, and other options all work), line up your hole saw with the groove you need to cut, and pull the trigger. There’s no need for a pilot bit—the Hole Troll keeps you in line and stable. With a 6-pack costing just under $20, there’s no reason not to have the Trolls working on your side for once.
Price: $19.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drilling
Eagle Tool ETX Flex Cable Bit
What they said:
“Skip the Slip” with Eagle Tool’s NEW line of cable bits. These bits are uniquely designed with a notch in the shank to prevent them from slipping out of an extension and being lost inside the wall.
Standard cable bits have a 3-flat shank, which can easily slip out of an extension inside the wall when trying to retrieve an expensive, stubborn bit. Eagle Tool listens to our customers and pays close attention to their reviews. This innovation comes directly from our customers’ input.
Used with our Quick Switch Hex adapter, this notch will prevent the annoying slip in the chuck. Made in the USA, these bits are as tough as they get.
What we say:
Eagle Tool has been around for a long time, making cable bits that perform well when you need to get extended reach. This line of Flex Cable Bits adds three distinct categories, including wood auger bits, installer bits, and dirt auger bits, that provide a handy solution for a variety of pulling tasks. The system really does keep you from losing expensive bits in walls and underground, so it’s as close to a no-brainer as you can get if you do this type of work often.
Price: $35–$70
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drills/Drivers Attachments
DEWALT DWALRAFT FLEXTORQ Lighted Modular Right Angle Attachment
What they said:
Illuminate workspaces and take on challenging jobs with the FLEXTORQ® Lighted Modular Right Angle Attachment. Engineered with forged gears for durability, this dual-function DEWALT® accessory delivers 10X longer life* for tough applications. Featuring an ultra-bright LED and 1.5 in. head height, this Modular Right Angle attachment offers maneuverability and additional visibility in confined areas. The USB rechargeable battery provides up to 3 hours of life on a single charge
What we say:
Ever since the first DeWalt FLEXTORQ attachment, we’ve kept an eye on what might be next. The newest attachment adds a battery-powered LED light for illumination and reduces the clearance down to just 1.5 inches. Combine that with a 1-inch bit, and you have a truly compact right-angle attachment for any drill that gets into spaces your original drill or impact driver could only dream of!
Price: $39.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drills/Drivers, Kits
GripEdge Tools 132-PC R.P.T. Multi-Bit set – MBS132
What they said:
The 132-PC R.P.T. multi-bit set from GripEdge Tools includes 126 bits, of which 96 feature Rounding Prevention Technology to provide users with extensive functionality for various uses. The tip of each R.P.T bit is precision machined with our unique, patented & Bi-directional geometry to deliver up to 50% more torque on new fasteners, and up to 400% more on damaged fasteners when compared to traditional tools. Additionally, in situations where fastener replacement isn’t possible, these compromised fasteners can be temporarily reused. Each bit is made from S2 grade steel, enhancing strength and longevity.
A T-Handle bit driver and a 60-Tooth ratcheting screwdriver provide technicians with versatile driving solutions for different scenarios. The components are neatly organized in an EVA foam insert and housed within a robust molded case. This foam insert is designed to be removable, allowing for convenient placement within a tool cart or toolbox for storage.
The set comprises 16 unique drive types.
What we say:
GripEdge makes a compelling bit driver accessory kit with the 132-pc R.P.T. Multi-Bit Set. It not only includes a hand driver and T-handle but also covers the gamut from standard Phillips, slotted, and square drives to tamper-proof hex, star, and star plus bits—plus a whole lot more.
Price: $249.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Impact-Rated Driver Bits
DEWALT TOUGH GRIP™ Screwdriving Bits
What they said:
Take on demanding tasks with TOUGH GRIP™ Screwdriving Bits. With select sizes redesigned to be up to 40X tougher for reduced bit breakage, these bits can complete challenging jobs with ease. Featuring optimized geometry, the bits for driving T20-T40 fasteners provide a tight fit ideal for a wide range of applications. To assist with organization and storage, the TOUGH GRIP™ Combo Bit Sets come packed in the connectable TOUGH CASE®+ System for custom bit storage solutions (additional cases sold separately).
What we say:
DeWalt has made consistently strong bits—having tested many of them over the years in various scenarios and applications. Their TOUGH GRIP™ Screwdriving Bits come in a variety of styles, and we’ve found them to maintain a solid grip on fasteners while resisting breakage in hard torque applications. They also come in a variety of packs, including some TOUGH CASE®+ packs.
Price: $4.48
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Specialty Driver Bits
Malco Tools 7-in-1 C-RHEX® Flip Bit
What they said:
The Malco 7-in-1 C-RHEX® Flip Bit Series combines superior materials with great performance. Featuring easy-to-clean reversible and stackable sockets with an ultra-powerful magnet for secure fastening, its durable design and versatile driver head options ensure it excels on every jobsite.
Malco designed this tool with precision and durability in mind, with features that ensure hassle-free maintenance, compact size, and long-lasting performance. Because trade professionals are commonly looking for the right drivers to complete a job, the 7-in-1 Flip Bit allows pros to spend more time working and less time searching for the right size hex, addressing service needs with storage solutions and versatility for a wide variety of applications.
Trade pros in building construction, roofing, HVAC, and more can choose from three different driver head options (#2 Phillips, #2 Robertson, and T25 Star). Each model comes with six color-coded C-RHEX reversible and stackable hex driver sizes (¼” & 5/16”, 11/32” & 3/8”, 7/16” & 1/2”) that stay tight on the shaft during work and while moving around the job site.
What we say:
Any time you can combine and eliminate tools in your tool bag or rig, it’s a win. The Malco Tools 7-in-1 C-RHEX® Flip Bit gives you three options: Phillips, Square, and T25. Each includes a suite of nut drivers from 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch, letting you replace a total of 7 tools when using a standard driver or a CONNEXT® handle. The system is also cleanable, and we love how the bits and sockets easily stack on the magnetic shaft. Lastly, Malco made these impact-rated.
Price: $24.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Dust Collection
Milwaukee PACKOUT™ Compact Debris Separator
What they said:
Our PACKOUT™ Compact Debris Separator is an accessory that requires use with a wet/dry vacuum. When paired together, the Debris Separator provides less filter clogs, consistent suction, and total mobility. This Dust Separator is compatible with all common wet/dry vacuum brands with 1-1/4”, 1-7/8”, and 2-1/2” hose diameters and can hold up to 2.5 gallons of debris. By capturing and separating 99% of common jobsite debris before it reaches the vacuum, there is less downtime spent cleaning and changing filters and more time working.
With a compact size, PACKOUT™ compatibility, and organized onboard storage, the Debris Separator delivers more mobility on, off, and around the jobsite. When using it with our medium-capacity wet/dry vacuums, the integrated mounting clips offer secure attachment to the vacuum. The optional Caster Accessory Kit includes (4) wheels that easily connect to the bottom of the Debris Separator, offering further maneuverability throughout the jobsite. The included 6’ Expandable Hose, Multi-Fit Adapter, and transparent debris door provide an easy-to-use clean-up experience from start to finish.
What we say:
Milwaukee PACKOUT™ continues to expand its presence, and its vacuum already has a place in our shop for quick cleanups. However, when dealing with heavy sawdust, that vacuum can fill up quickly. Adding the Compact Debris Separator is a brilliant and convenient add-on that features the same convenient portability while extending the use of your PACKOUT™ vacuum. At around $100, it’s a great add-on for anyone already on the platform.
Price: $100
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Extractors
GripEdge Tools 14-PC G-F.O.R.S. Extractor Set
What they said:
The GripEdge 14-PC G-F.O.R.S. Extractor kit is designed to replace conventional extraction tools and minimize the challenges faced by technicians. The distinct, patented, non-tapering, and Bi-directional design ensures full engagement with the fastener’s sidewall, avoiding the expansion that causes thread binding. It’s engineered to grip rounded bolts, nuts, studs, socket cap screws, button head screws, threaded piping, lug bolts, and grease fittings, among others. In situations where an appropriate substitute isn’t at hand, damaged fasteners can be temporarily re-used.
The Foreign Object Removal Sleeve (G-F.O.R.S.) ensures the safe and effortless disposal of materials from the tip of the extractor, protecting the user from harm and extending the durability of the tool. Every G-FORS Extractor is constructed from S2 steel to enhance both strength and longevity while also being treated for improved resistance to corrosion. The sizing specifications on all G-FORS Extractors are laser-etched to enhance visibility, and they are exclusively designed for manual use (not rated for impact). Additionally, left-handed drill bits come with the set, simplifying the extraction procedure.
The components are neatly organized in an EVA foam insert and housed within a robust molded case. This foam insert is designed to be removable, allowing for convenient placement within a tool cart or toolbox for storage. The set includes #1–#7 G-F.O.R.S. Extractors, left-handed drill bits, and a robust molded case with an EVA foam insert.
What we say:
We’ve used our share of bolt extractors, but the new GripEdge Tools G-F.O.R.S. Extractor Set offers some new features we hadn’t seen before. For starters, it uses a straight, not tapered design, so the full extractor contacts the inside of the bolt you’re trying to remove. Second, it has an integrated Foresign Object Removal Sleeve that lets you eject the bolt from the extractor without the need for a vise. Overall, this should be a staple product for any automotive technicians or mechanics.
Price: $264.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Hole Saws
Lenox SNAP-BACK® Arbor With Step Bit Pilot Drill
What they said:
The NEW LENOX® SNAP-BACK® Quick Change Hole Saw Arbors make holes in metal with less hole saw grabbing and up to 50% fewer pilot breaks vs previous generation LENOX® Pilot Drill drilling low carbon steel. A patent-pending Step Bit Pilot Drill design reduces the need for predrilling, feeding the saw into the material without slamming. The quick change arbor features a tool-free pilot drill change; no Allen key is required. The anti-jam collar drives the hole saw without jamming or disengaging.
What we say:
Drilling with a hole saw involves two difficulties: bit walking and changing the blades. In one fell swoop, Lenox eliminated both issues and added tool-free pilot bit changes to boot. The step bit eases the hole saw into the material, giving you a cleaner and smoother start.
Price: $24.98
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Router Bits
CMT SUPER-DUTY Flush Trim Bit ¾” x 2”
What they said:
CMT is proud to introduce the new XTreme flush trim bits, which guarantee the best possible finish and extra-long life thanks to our one-of-a-kind spiral technology. Four cutting edges in high-quality carbide are crafted using special brazing techniques and a unique positive and negative design, thus eliminating splintering on the upper and lower sides of the material you’re working with.
Ideal for projects involving precious wood, melamine, and delicate engineered veneers. Two upcut and downcut precision cutting edges deliver ultimate finishing cuts in double-sided material in one pass. Made in Italy with superior high-strength steel sourced from Switzerland, which provides exceptional resistance to fatigue and abrasion.
What we say:
We recognized the CMT SUPER-DUTY Flush Trim Bit for its precision and durability, which is driven by CMT’s innovative spiral technology. With 4 carbide cutting edges, it delivers flawless results without splintering, even on delicate materials. Manufactured in Italy using Swiss high-strength steel and Ceratizit carbide tips, this bit offers exceptional wear resistance. Its design and materials suggest both efficient performance and a long lifespan, making it a valuable tool for demanding woodworking projects.
Price: $61
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Stands, Tables, & Bases
RYOBI STM202 Speed Bench Mobile Workstation
What they said:
The RYOBI SPEED BENCH Mobile Workstation is a 2-in-1 product uniquely designed to transform from cart to workbench and back. Effortlessly set up with one fluid motion, allowing you to work and store anywhere. In workbench orientation, utilize the large 42″ x 22″ durable wood surface with a 400 lb. weight capacity. This work surface allows for 4-sided edge clamping and the ability to mount miter saws and other tools. The work surface also features convenient SAE/Metric measurement and protractor lines to conveniently reference while working. The included LINK Accessory Rails can be mounted in multiple locations, taking advantage of the included LINK Double Organizer Bin and other LINK-compatible products and accessories.
When your project is complete, convert to cart orientation for compact storage. In cart orientation, the sturdy steel frame and heavy-duty 19” skid plate allow you to transport up to 300 lbs. of products and materials. Equipped with 10″ all-terrain wheels for effortless transport on any work site. Easily store under a truck bed tonneau cover with the tool-free detachable skid plate. The SPEED BENCH Mobile Workstation includes (2) LINK Accessory Rails, (1) LINK Double Organizer Bin, Hardware Pack and Operator’s Manual.
What we say:
The RYOBI SPEED BENCH Mobile Workstation has a truly versatile design that lets it seamlessly transition from cart to workbench in seconds. This 2-in-1 product offers a durable 42″ x 22″ work surface with a 400 lb. capacity, supporting both edge clamping and tool mounting. The workstation’s other innovative features include built-in measurement guides and LINK Accessory Rails. Its sturdy construction and 10″ all-terrain wheels ensure easy transport and compact storage, making it a handy tool for both DIYers and professionals.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Construction Adhesives
DAP HD Max Construction Adhesive
What they said:
DAP HD Max Construction Adhesive is a premium hybrid formula with polyurethane strength that provides superior durability and powerful adhesion even in extreme temperatures. Built for the toughest applications, DAP’s HD Max is the first hybrid construction adhesive on the market available in a 28-Fluid Ounce cartridge, making it an excellent value hybrid formula for pros looking to accomplish larger jobs.
HD Max bonds virtually everything – from non-porous substrates like aluminum, PVC, and mirror to porous, textured materials like brick, concrete and drywall – with exceptional adhesion and superior durability in both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether working in scorching heat or freezing cold, HD Max rises to the challenge with its ability to bond in extreme temperatures, as it can be gunned out and bond anywhere from 0 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Its low odor formula also makes it ideal for interior use. HD Max not only redefines construction adhesive value, but also elevates user experience with its ability to adhere to wet surfaces while being easy to gun and control. In addition, HD Max goes above and beyond by delivering a solid and waterproof bond that’s reliable and flexible.
What we say:
DAP HD Max Construction Adhesive offers exceptional performance and versatility in demanding conditions. This premium hybrid formula combines polyurethane strength with advanced adhesion capabilities, making it suitable for both porous and non-porous materials. The 28-fluid-ounce cartridge offers excellent value for larger projects, while its ability to bond in extreme temperatures, from 0 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, ensures reliability in any environment. HD Max continues to set the standard for durability, ease of use, and overall adhesive performance.
Price: $10
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Deck Rail
RailFX FlexFX Fittings
What they said:
RailFX® has updated its FlexFX Fittings to make the installation of cable railing faster, easier, and more cost-effective by reducing the number of different types of fittings needed for a project. The FlexFX Fittings’ unique design allows the same fitting to be used for level and incline applications at any angle, meeting the needs of virtually any deck layout. This simplifies the ordering and installation processes, significantly reducing the complexity traditionally associated with cable railing systems.
The updated FlexFX Fitting design simplifies the cable railing planning and installation process, helping contractors work more efficiently and save time on every project. With just one fitting, it’s so much easier.
In addition to their versatile application, FlexFX Fittings include RailFX’s exclusive Push-Lock® technology. This feature allows for effortless cable insertion and securely locks the cable in place without the need for additional tools or complex procedures.
The fittings can also be used with the available universal drilling template, making alignment and drilling straightforward and efficient instead of needing to drill through posts.
What we say:
RailFX® FlexFX Fittings take an innovative approach to simplifying cable railing installation. By reducing the number of fittings required and allowing a single fitting to be used for both level and incline applications, these fittings streamline the planning and installation process, making it more efficient for contractors. The integration of Push-Lock® technology further enhances ease of use, offering secure cable installation without the need for additional tools, saving both time and effort on every project.
Price: $30–$58 ea
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Hidden Fastening System
FastenMaster Collated Cortex Hidden Fastening System
What they said:
The Cortex Hidden Fastening System is the fastest, easiest way to hide the heads of your deck screws across the entire deck, first and last board, perimeter, and stairs. Cortex plugs are made from the same material as market-leading deck boards, creating a 100% perfect match every time. Cortex plugs come on a collated strip with pre-aligned grains, so there’s no need to fumble around with loose plugs. TORX® ttap® provides superior bit engagement for a stable, wobble-free installation experience.
What we say:
The Cortex Hidden Fastening System offers an efficient and seamless approach to deck installation. By using deck plugs made from the same material as leading deck boards, it ensures a perfect match, making fastener heads virtually invisible. The collated strips with pre-aligned grains simplify the installation process, while the TORX® ttap® feature enhances bit engagement, providing a stable and reliable installation. This system significantly improves the appearance and durability of decking projects.
Price: $32–$165 (based on package count)
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Nails
BECK America LIGNOLOC® 3″ Wooden Nails with Head
What they said:
LIGNOLOC® is the first ever pneumatically driven wooden nail for future-oriented use in industrial production and ecological timber construction (among many other applications). The revolutionary LIGNOLOC® wooden nails are made from indigenous beech wood. Their mechanical properties allow the nails to be driven into solid structural timber* and wooden materials with the FASCO® LIGNOLOC® pneumatic nailer, without predrilling, to form an inseparable bond with the timber. LIGNOLOC® is the most sustainable professional fastening system on the market, reducing CO₂ emissions by 66% compared to conventional systems and supporting the circular economy.
As an addition to our current LIGNOLOC® wooden nail family, the new 3″ LIGNOLOC® with head was developed specifically for façade construction. It has a blunt anti-splitting point and is suitable for the most common softwood façades as well as a variety of other applications, both indoors and outdoors, such as privacy screens, garden sheds, gazebos, room dividers, etc. Made longer to use in even more applications.
What we say:
What if your nails blended seamlessly with your wood surface? As the first pneumatically driven wooden nail, LIGNOLOC® offers a strong, inseparable bond without the need for predrilling, thanks to its unique wood-welding effect. The newly developed 3″ LIGNOLOC® with head expands its versatility, making it ideal for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. It’s both an innovative and sustainable approach to fastening timber construction, as Beck America makes it using renewable German beech wood. They claim the nails reduce CO₂ emissions by 66% compared to traditional systems.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Metal Screws
BECK SCRAIL® Steelthread Structural
What they said:
SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD is a new development for mezzanine floors and floor cassettes in light gauge steel modular construction. Usually, only self-drilling screws are used for such applications. The SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD STRUCTURAL has excellent holding power and works in steel profiles up to 12 ga.
The SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD STRUCTURAL is driven like a collated nail through OSB, plywood, or solid wood into sheet metal with a pneumatic tool. Three longitudinal grooves in the thread ensure controlled material displacement in the sheet metal profile as the fastener is driven in. The special fine thread anchors the SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD STRUCTURAL firmly to the sheet metal profile, thus providing enormous holding power. The protrusions in the entry hole also ensure that the SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD STRUCTURAL can be adjusted and unscrewed.
BECK SCRAIL® can be used for almost all screw applications and are driven like a normal nail with a conventional pneumatic nailer) at lightning speed. Due to its thread, the SCRAIL® achieves approximately 80%, and more, of the holding force of a screw. An additional advantage over magazine-loaded nails results from the adjustability. SCRAIL® nail screw fasteners can be returned and unscrewed after insertion.
What we say:
Designed for mezzanine floors and floor cassettes, the SCRAIL® Steelthread Structural screws continue their innovative approach to fastening in light gauge steel modular construction. This fastener offers superior holding power in up to 12 gauge steel profiles. Driven like a nail while providing the adjustability of a screw, it drives twice as fast as a collated screw. This saves both time and labor costs. The fine thread and unique groove design also ensure a secure, controlled fit, making it an excellent choice for demanding structural applications.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Structural Screws
SPAX PowerLags
What they said:
SPAX® POWERLAGS® offer the largest selection of code-recognized structural wood-to-wood fasteners in the industry and drive faster and easier than conventional lags and other structural screws. Every PowerLag is crafted in the USA for superior reliability, strength, and performance. Plus, each screw features SPAX patented serrated thread technology, reducing installation time and labor costs by up to 40%. So, whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend DIY’er, your wood-to-wood connections require no pre-drilling, no extra tools, and just one impact driver. If you have a beefy wood project on the docket, whether it be interior or exterior, you’re going to need lag bolts, and you’re going to want SPAX® PowerLags®. Decks, fencing, pergolas, arbors, garden beds, or playsets, SPAX® provides quality, stability, and beauty to any project! For the TSTAR-HCR exterior lags, this includes new longer lengths, including 5/16” x 5”, 6”, 8”, 10”, and 12”.
SPAX POWERLAGS® deliver optimal strength for multi-ply beams and deck ledger assemblies and save time by eliminating pre-drilling in wood with POWERLAGS patented thread serration technology. The serrations minimize the risk of splitting wood, enhancing the structural integrity of the build. The low-profile, large-diameter T-STAR Washer Head design provides outstanding clamping force and improved aesthetics, ensuring secure connections. With imperial thread sizing and a large diameter head, they deliver the highest withdrawal and pull-through values in the industry. That means you get the strongest multi-ply beams and deck ledger to band joist attachments rated to hold a load on both the head and point side of the fastener.
PowerLags also speed up the construction process, allowing builders to complete projects faster and with less effort. Featuring superior withdrawal and pull-through values, excellent corrosion resistance, and easy on-site identification, SPAX PowerLags are the ideal replacement for conventional lag screws in multi-ply and deck ledger assemblies. SPAX’s proprietary HCR® double barrier coating provides exceptional corrosion resistance and is approved for use in treated lumber and ground contact pressure-treated lumber for exterior, freshwater general construction applications. Made from cold-rolled carbon steel wire and heat treated for strength and durability, SPAX PowerLags are built to withstand demanding construction environments.
What we say:
SPAX® POWERLAGS® offer a very wide selection of code-recognized options, driving faster and more efficiently than traditional lags. Crafted in the USA, each PowerLag features SPAX’s patented serrated thread technology, reducing the need for pre-drilling. The low-profile, large-diameter T-STAR Washer Head also enhances clamping force, ensuring secure, long-lasting connections, making them ideal for deck construction and similar projects.
Price: Varies by quantity and style
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WINNER – Wood Screws
Grip-Rite DeckForce™ Exterior Screws
What they said:
New Grip-Rite® DeckForce™ premium exterior screws offer superior performance and longevity thanks to an innovative PrimeGuard® Nano Coating that’s engineered for strength, durability, corrosion resistance — and peace of mind. Featuring groundbreaking new technology, Grip-Rite® DeckForce™ screws are enveloped with PrimeGuard® Nano Coating technology, which is formulated to provide a seamless seal and smooth finish, making screws ultra corrosion resistant. The coating carries a lifetime guarantee, giving pros and homeowners confidence in the integrity and security of their projects.
The Grip-Rite® DeckForce™ line includes two different models specifically engineered for wood or composite decking. The wood screws are designed for building wooden decks and fences, with a T-17 auto-pilot tip, dual-action auger threads, a diamond-file shank, and a patent-pending wedge-lock head. They can be used in both treated and non-treated lumber. The composite screws are suited for composite and PVC decking, with aggressive saw teeth, a T-17 saw tip, and hi-lo threads with an undercut head – to speed installation and achieve the ideal finish. The wood and composite screws feature T-25 and T-20 star drive heads, respectively, for a secure grip when installing. Both sets of screws are available in multiple colors, allowing installers to color-match to the deck material and provide a clean, uninterrupted look.
What we say:
Grip-Rite® DeckForce™ premium exterior screws feature PrimeGuard® Nano Coating. These screws offer superior corrosion resistance with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring long-term performance in any decking project. The DeckForce™ line includes specialized models for both wood and composite decking, each engineered for optimal installation ease and a secure, lasting hold. With color-matching options and innovative design features, these screws provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for professional and DIY projects alike.
Price: Varies by quantity and style
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WINNER – Specialty
FastenMaster ICON ScrewJoist
What they said:
The FastenMaster ICON ScrewJoist is a revolutionary hybrid deck joist system engineered to combine the strength and durability of steel with the lightness and workability of wood. The new ICON System enables contractors to build exterior deck substructures faster, stronger, and safer than with traditional pressure-treated joists.
Patented ICON ScrewJoists offer a wide range of benefits when compared to traditional pressure-treated lumber, including being significantly lighter for easier and safer handling on site and quicker to install without the need for metal hangers or connectors. In addition, the straighter and more dimensionally stable ICON ScrewJoists provide a consistently level deck surface without crowns or low spots. The open web design allows contractors to slide 2 x 8 lumber blocking into place without having to cut and install multiple blocks.
What we say:
The FastenMaster ICON ScrewJoist is unlike anything we’ve seen before. It’s a structural component that combines the strength of steel with the workability of wood. This hybrid system enables faster, safer, and more efficient deck builds by eliminating the need for metal hangers and connectors. ICON ScrewJoists are lighter and more dimensionally stable than traditional lumber, providing an easy way to produce a level deck surface. The open web design lets you easily slide through full-length blocking, further simplifying installation and making it a valuable advancement for contractors.
Price: Varies
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WINNER – Waterproofing
FastenMaster Deck Frame Coating
What they said:
FastenMaster Deck Frame Coating is a water-based sealant that helps to extend the life of decks by creating a lasting moisture barrier.
The new coating is designed to be rolled or painted onto the top of deck joists, ledger boards, stair stringers, posts, beams, and other framing components and serves to deter wood rot and decay. After application, it’s workable in 20 minutes, so it won’t slow down decking PROs during installation. Once dry, the coating creates a durable seal around deck fasteners. In addition, it is highly effective for use in corners and other hard-to-reach places where joist tapes have difficulty providing full coverage.
What we say:
FastenMaster Deck Frame Coating provides a practical (and welcome) solution for prolonging the life of deck structures. This water-based sealant easily protects deck framing components from moisture, wood rot, and decay. It can be applied via brush or roller to joists, ledger boards, and other areas. It dries in 20 minutes or less, so you don’t have to delay your workflow or project. The coating creates a durable seal around fasteners and enhances the overall durability of deck installations—particularly in those hard-to-reach areas.
Price: $108 (gallon)
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