Last year, we thought we had seen it all, but 2024 brought even more award-winning automotive tools and metalworking tools. Innovation extended into ratchets, mechanics tools, metal storage, and more to help the automotive and metalworking trades gain even greater efficiencies. No matter if you work in the automotive or metal fabrication industry, you should find something here that grabs your attention.
For those working with metal or on vehicles, the 2024 Pro Tool Innovation Awards present possibilities, potential, and improved workflow opportunities for anyone in these trades. These are the leading innovators, and the 2024 Automotive and Metalworking Tools Awards category should give you several tools and accessories to put on your company’s next supply list.
Winner – Automotive Inspection
Milwaukee M12™ Auto Shop Borescope w/ Wi-Fi® File Sharing
What they said:
Optimized for the automotive shop, the MILWAUKEE® M12™ Auto Shop Borescope w/ Wi-Fi® File Sharing delivers simplified inspections and faster repair approval. Quickly share and document findings from the 5.5” HD touchscreen display. Add context to your photos and videos through on-board drawing, audio, text, and video trimming features. Connect to the shop’s Wi-Fi to quickly share and document findings via email for faster repair approval.
5mm Access provides best access in tight spaces, including glow plug holes and fuel injector ports. Front and side view cameras with adjustable LED brightness provide increased application viewing. High-definition photo and video with 4X zoom allows the technician to diagnose hairline cracks with confidence, increasing productivity in the bay. Equipped with HEAT SENSE™ Temperature Alert technology, if the vehicle being inspected is too hot to use the camera without potential damage, the borescope notifies the user and shuts down, helping to extend the life of the tool’s cable. Field-replaceable camera cable (48-59-3150) for reduced downtime. Powered by the M12™ battery system, this borescope is fully compatible with all M12™ solutions in the shop.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M12 Auto Shop Borescope w/Wi-Fi File Sharing helps improve automotive inspections with advanced features like a 5.5” HD touchscreen and onboard editing tools. It simplifies documentation and accelerates repair approvals by enabling quick file sharing via Wi-Fi. With its 5mm head diameter, adjustable LED brightness, and dual-view cameras, this borescope improves diagnostic accuracy and flexibility. HEAT SENSE™ technology shuts down the camera when it encounters a “too hot” engine, and a field-replaceable cable also helps ensure durability and reduces downtime in the shop.
Price: $1,499
For more information, click here.
Winner – Band Saws, Cordless
Hilti SB 6-22 Deep Cut Band Saw
What they said:
For deeper cuts and enhanced durability, construction professionals can look to the SB 6-22 Deep cut band saw. Its 5-inch mouth, interchangeable blades, shock-absorbing metal housing, and adjustable cutting speeds make it an ideal band saw for heavier applications such as cutting EMT, conduit, threaded rod, and steel pipe. The SB 6-22’s lightweight body (8 pounds), paired with its ability to perform cutting that’s virtually noise, debris, and spark-free, allows users to cut in almost any condition, including sensitive or occupied environments. And for enhanced safety, contractors can choose between a dual or single-trigger design based on their personal comfort and control preferences.
What we say:
The Hilti SB 6-22 Deep Cut Band Saw features a large 5-inch cutting capacity and adjustable speeds. It efficiently cuts through EMT, conduit, threaded rod, and steel pipe. Its lightweight 8-pound design and shock-absorbing metal housing provide durability and ease of use, while the 5-speed brushless motor lets you optimize for multiple applications and sensitive environments. Hilti even gives you the option of dual or single-trigger designs to help you meet safety standards or optimize convenience.
Price: $419
For more information, click here.
Winner – Bandfile
Craftsman CMCW211B V20 1/2in. x 18in. Powerfile
What they said:
At only 2.3 lbs., this V20 Powerfile is ideal for quick sanding jobs in tight spaces. Featuring a compact frame and powerful performance, it has a 1/4 in. – 3/4 in. belt sanding capability and provides up to 0- 3,950 FPM. Help maximize control through a variety of applications with the variable speed/trigger dial and multiple contact arms for additional versatility. Help contain dust and debris with the dust port adaptor as you work.
Match speed to the job at hand with the variable speed trigger and dial. Switch between applications with ease using the tool-free belt adjustment feature. Utilize the multiple contact arms and work with a variety of surfaces for both preparation and material removal. Engage the lock-on switch to allow for consistent sanding speed in tight spaces without adjusting finger pressure. Help maintain a clean workspace with the dust port adaptor designed to help capture debris when used with a compatible vacuum (sold separately). Accepts vacuum hoses up to 32mm in diameter. Part of the V20 cordless power tool and outdoor equipment system giving you the Power to Do It All™ – Build. Repair. Restore. Maintain. Stay organized and easily store this VERSATRACK™ compatible tool when the job is done.
What we say:
We loved the compact size and low price of the V20 Powerfile. For sanding in tight-spaces, this 2.3-pound tool offers 1/4-inch to 3/4-inch belt sanding with up to 3,950 FPM. The variable speed trigger and dial, along with multiple contact arms, provide precise control and adaptability across various tasks. The tool-free belt adjustment and dust port adaptor enhance usability and cleanliness, making it an excellent choice for detailed sanding work.
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Blades, Band Saw
LENOX LUMBERWOLF WOOD B Automated Pallet Dismantling Blade
What they said:
LENOX® LUMBERWOLF WOOD B Automated pallet dismantling blades deliver industry-leading blade life at high cutting rates for pallet dismantling operations where automated robots are utilized. High productivity & a low total cost of operation are achieved by utilizing a proven tooth geometry combined with a unique setting strategy that eliminates the need to “dress” blades with grinding stones, saving time and money for end-users. This design strategy, combined with durable high-speed edge wire and high alloy backing, helps prevent tooth damage and blade breakage. Consistent performance is achieved by utilizing advanced processing methods.
What we say:
When it comes to dismantling pallets, the Lenox Lumberwolf Wood B Automated Pallet Dismantling Blades provide exceptional durability and efficiency. Designed for automated pallet dismantling operations, these blades offer extended life and high cutting rates, reducing downtime and costs. The innovative tooth geometry and setting strategy eliminates the need for blade dressing, saving time and enhancing productivity. Lastly, the durable high-speed edge wire and high alloy backing prevent tooth damage and breakage, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.
Price: Varies
For more information, click here.
Winner – Detail Lighting
Milwaukee 2129-20 M18™ Magnetic Extendable Boom Light
What they said:
Our Milwaukee M18™ Magnetic Extendable Boom Light, and its two articulating arms, provides the LONGEST REACH in tight spaces. Three swivel points with 900 degrees of vertical rotation and 890 degrees of horizontal rotation, paired with a strong magnetic base, allow for FAST & SECURE ADJUSTMENTS. The magnetic base includes a release mechanism for easy removal from ferrous surfaces.
The M18™ Magnetic Extendable Boom Light also comes with a Protective Storage Boot that reduces the magnet strength for safe toolbox storage. The light delivers 2,500 lumens of TRUEVIEW™ High Definition Output for up to 12 hours on low or 4.5 hours on high, providing all-day run-time on one M18™ XC5.0 Battery. The M18™ Magnetic Extendable Boom Light has an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, is impact-rated, and is corrosion-resistant to most chemicals found in the auto shop. This light is also guaranteed by a 5-year tool warranty and a Limited Lifetime LED Warranty.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M18 Magnetic Extendable Boom Light provides outstanding reach thanks to a pair of articulating arms and even more swivel points. It reminds us of a really cool cordless dentist’s light…without all the drilling! With a maximum output of 2,500 lumens of TRUEVIEW™ High Definition Output and up to 7 hours of run-time ON HIGH using an 8Ah battery, it offers all-day runtime. The strong magnetic base includes an easy-release mechanism and an IP54 rating and impact-resistant design makes it durable for dirty automotive shop environments. Mount it over or under. It doesn’t really matter as long as you can grab it and point it where you want it.
Price: $279
For more information, click here.
Winner – Grinder Wheel, Abrasive/Grinding
FLEX FA302001 SightMax™ Flap Disc
What they said:
Clearly see the surface you are grinding, stripping, or shaping with the FLEX 4-1/2” SIGHTMAX™ 40 Grit Flap Disc. This 40-grit flap disc improves the working experience by removing the guesswork with its innovative segmented design that delivers a transparent line of sight to the work surface while grinding for reduced over-abrasion and maximum efficiency. Along with its segmented design, a special coating reduces heat buildup on the disc compared to traditional flap discs for increased performance and longer life.
SIGHTMAX™ flap discs utilize a high-quality zirconium abrasive grain for quick stock removal, and their iron- and sulfur-free construction reduces oxidizable particles left behind on finished surfaces to help prevent rust from forming. A coating slows moisture exposure for extended disc life. The conical 10-degree flap arrangement improves grinding ergonomics for improved tool handling.
What we say:
The first time you use the FLEX SightMax flap disc, you can see your work while you grind away welds or otherwise remove rust or material from metal. It’s a little bit like magic. The segmented structure provides a clear line of sight to the work surface. More, the zirconium abrasive grain removes material quickly and the special coating minimizes heat buildup and moisture exposure, extending the disc’s life. Its iron-free and sulfur-free construction helps prevent rust, making it a reliable choice for high-quality finishes.
Price: $11.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Grinder Wheel, Cutting
FLEX FA301001 Razor Slice™ Cut Disc
What they said:
Slice through metal effortlessly whether you’re cutting bolts, threaded rod, automotive door panels, stainless steel, or sheet metal with the FLEX 4-1/2” RAZOR SLICE™ Cut-Off Disc. An ultra-thin .024-inch kerf allows the disc to cut through metal dramatically faster while generating fewer sparks, burrs, and heat.
The disc’s thin edge and Type 27 design deliver maximum precision when lining up your cut. Its iron- and sulfur-free construction reduces oxidizable particles left behind on finished surfaces to help prevent rust. Designed for metal-cutting applications, this RAZOR SLICE™ cut-off wheel slices through stainless steel, carbon steel, and cast iron. Its aluminum oxide grain powers through material quickly without generating excessive heat. Optimized for use with cordless angle grinders, these ultra-thin cut-off discs generate less drag to maximize runtime.
What we say:
For metal-cutting applications, the Flex 4-1/2” Razor Slice cut-off disc impressed with its ultra-thin .024-inch kerf. The disc makes quick work of stainless steel, carbon steel—even cast iron while minimizing sparks, burrs, and heat. The Type 27 design gives it additional maneuverability and ensures accurate cuts. Optimized for cordless angle grinders, it also reduces drag, which can extend runtime on these power-hungry tools.
Price: $19.95
For more information, click here.
Winner – Grinders
Metabo WEPBA 20-150 Quick DS BL
What they said:
The WEPBA 20-150 Quick DS BL. 6” 2000W angle grinder is for all day, continuous power as a corded tool, increased performance due to the brushless motor and re-engineered electronics system, and a patented cooling system to reduce wear and tear on the tools internals. It has 15 amps and a no-load speed of 9,600. The WEPBA 20-150 Quick DS BL provides the performance of a 7” large angle grinder in a 6” small angle grinder footprint. There is also a 5” version of this tool, the WEPBA 20-125 (600643420) same power and features, just in a smaller package.
Tool safety features include Tacho-Constamatic electronics for maintaining speed under load, soft start for smooth start-up, restart protection for unintentional restart after power supply interruption, and overload protection, which protects the motor from overheating. The grinder also includes drop secure, an attachment point for a lanyard; this can be used when working at height to help prevent injury or property damage from a falling tool. Its MVT VibraTech side handle and the tool’s auto-balance technology minimize the risk of hand-arm vibrations and increase accessory and tool life.
The WEPBA 20-150 also includes a fast disc change with the press of a button and next-generation brushless motor that lasts 3x longer than standard brushed motors. With this grinder, the end-user is getting the most powerful, most efficient, highest-safety small angle grinder in its class!
What we say:
The Metabo WEPBA 20-150 Quick DS BL 6” angle grinder uses a powerful 2000W brushless motor and a re-engineered electronics package to produce 11,000 RPM and 3 Nm or 26.6 in-lbs of torque. Most impressively, the grinder’s compact 6” design offers the power of a 7” tool, and its safety features—including Tacho-Constamatic electronics, soft start, restart protection, and overload protection—enhance user safety. The MVT VibraTech handle and auto-balance technology further reduce vibration to both your hand and arm. Additionally, the quick disc change and drop secure lanyard attachment point make this grinder both versatile and safe for nearly any application or environment.
Price: $315
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Grinders
DEWALT DCG418SHDB 60V Side Handle Detect Grinder
What they said:
The DeWalt 60V MAX 4 1/2” – 6” Side Handle Detect Grinder is designed to ensure the operator uses two hands on the tool when performing applications. The new Side Handle Design allows users to feather the triggers, allowing for a smoother finish and ensuring two points of contact with the tool. Extreme performance with 2400 MWO of power so that the tool can keep up with you. Two-touch guard to easily maneuver positioning to best complete application.
An integrated E-clutch slows the motor under high torque applications to protect both the tool and the user. A Kickback brake automatically stops the tool with the brake upon detection of a kickback for added user protection. An integrated Side-Handle Detect system requires 2-handed use to operate the tool, alleviating some safety concerns due to improper use. Built in trigger timers prevent “cheating” the system. The No-Volt feature forces the entire trigger sequence to be re-engaged following a power loss. This avoids unexpected starts upon re-connection of the power source.
What we say:
The DeWalt DCG418SHD adds a nice safety feature to its existing DCG418 60V MAX 4 1/2”–6” grinder. Dubbed the “Side Handle Detect Grinder,” it requires two-handed operation in order to reduce the risk of improper use. Built-in trigger timers even force you to reset your grip and keep you from just taping or zip-tying one of the triggers to bypass the system. Like the DCG418, this model includes an E-Clutch and Kickback Brake for added safety. Lastly, the two-touch guard allows for easy positioning, so you can easily switch between different cut types and positions.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.
Winner – Impact Wrenches
Ingersoll Rand 2236QTiMAX 1/2″ Impact Wrench
What they said:
The Ingersoll Rand® 2236QTiMAX 1/2″ Impact Wrench features the patented DXS® Drive Xchange System™ that uses a proprietary spline-type interface and fast-swap, interchangeable drives, so you can perform multiple jobs with one tool – decreasing downtime and saving space in your toolkit. Tight-fitting DXS® attachments deliver up to 15% more motor torque to fasteners*, making the tool more effective. With 1,500 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and a lightweight, compact design, the 2236QTiMAX offers best-in-class performance that eliminates the need for adapters and extensions. A compact design provides greater access to tight spaces while an impact-resistant body withstands the rigors of tough job sites.
What we say:
How about an impact wrench that can near-instantly switch between extended and short anvils and even sizes? That’s the Ingersoll Rand 2236QTiMAX 1/2″ Impact Wrench. It features the patented DXS Drive Xchange System that lets you use interchangeable drives, reducing downtime and the need for multiple tools. With 1,500 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it’s also quite powerful. For all that power, the lightweight, compact design provides easy access to tight spaces, while the impact-resistant body ensures durability in demanding environments.
Price: $379
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Impact Wrenches
Milwaukee 2562-21 M12™ 3/8” Stubby Impact Wrench
What they said:
Our new 3/8” Stubby Impact Wrench delivers the Most Power, Is Lighter Weight & More Compact while delivering 50% Faster Application speeds. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor Delivers 0-3,000 RPM with up to 550 ft-lbs of Nut Busting Torque, allowing the removal of the most corroded and stubborn applications. Our solution delivers on performance and size, at only 2.2 lbs bare tool. Users will experience less fatigue throughout their work week while fitting into tight spaces and allowing access where larger impacts can’t fit without using additional accessories or disassembling components to reach the desired fastener.
Equipped with Tri LED work lights to illuminate your work area without the frustration of shadows. 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL™ for greater precision and customization to your desired power output, including AUTO SHUT-OFF™ that applies no more than 15 ft-lbs of torque for hand-tight applications that prevent overtightening when in forward. In reverse, bolt removal mode will slow down the RPM once the bolt is free to prevent bolts from flying around your work area. Changing the modes is a single-handed operation. By shifting the forward-reverse shuttle into neutral and double-tapping the trigger, you will be able to change modes effortlessly. Kitted with our M12™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ XC5.0 Battery Pack that delivers 25% more power, runs 25% cooler, and is chemical resistant to protect against exposure to common oils, greases, and solvents.
What we say:
It’s hard to express how impressive it is to more than double the power of an already-compact impact wrench without changing its size or weight. That’s what Milwaukee did with the 2562-21 M12 3/8” Stubby impact wrench. Sporting the power of a mid-torque impact wrench (550 ft-lbs), this 12V tool weighs just 2.2 lbs. Features like the 4-Mode Drive Control are the cherry on top, giving you precise control—whether fastening or removing nuts and bolts. Lastly, an integrated Tri LED work light gives you shadow-free illumination. And, yes, you can get it with a 1/2″ anvil (2563-21) or even add a protective boot for more protection.
Price: $279
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Lathes
Pro-Cut International X1 HD On-Truck Lathe
What they said:
Pro-Cut has long been the worldwide leader in on-car rotor matching with many OEMs mandating or recommending that dealers invest in and use the Pro-Cut equipment for warranty brake work. In 2024, the company expanded into the heavy-duty truck market with its release of the X1 HD On-Truck Lathe. The X1 can resurface rotors on over-the-road trucks, tractor-trailers, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles that have previously been forced to replace rotors, a time-consuming, complicated, and expensive undertaking. Machining rotors on these heavy-duty vehicles is truly revolutionary and saves time, money, and resources. The Pro-Cut X1 HD On-Truck Lathe is changing the way fleets look at brake service.
What we say:
We thought the X15 was impressive, but the Pro-Cut X1 HD On-Truck Lathe expands the company’s on-car rotor matching with a model specifically designed for over-the-road trucks. That includes tractor-trailers, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles. This lathe enables the resurfacing of rotors directly on the vehicle, eliminating the need for time-consuming and costly rotor replacements. By streamlining the brake service process, the X1 HD should save fleets valuable time and resources, offering a more efficient approach to maintaining heavy-duty vehicles.
Price: Varies by options
For more information, click here.
Winner – Mechanics Tool Sets
Gearwrench MEGAMOD Master Mechanics Tool Set
What they said:
GEARWRENCH launched five new MEGAMOD Master Mechanics Tool Sets: MEGAMOD1268, MEGAMOD1024, MEGAMOD873, MEGAMODPRO and MEGAMODMRO. These sets range from 614 to 1,268-piece tool sets with multiple storage boxes and tools nested in modular foam trays that fit in the drawers of the toolboxes and shop equipment products. With these tool sets, GEARWRENCH is solving the problem most technicians face when it comes to owning the ultimate tool set, including the best mix of high-performance tools in a top-quality storage box. These sets offer technicians modularity of their toolboxes with the tools pre-nestled in foam storage trays that can be placed in a variety of different locations in the toolboxes, making sure the right tool is at their fingertips and letting them organize tools their way.
These sets also allow technicians to own tools at an affordable price and not go into years of debt, offering a value of more than $10,000 in savings compared to competitors. The individual five new MEGAMOD sets offer tools from more than 15 different product categories, including award-winning GEARWRENCH products such as the Bolt Biter Extraction products, 90T Ratchets, sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and a 120XP torque wrench. The three largest sets include tools fitted into premium silver top foam modular trays, and the two smallest set tools are in the standard black modular foam trays.
What we say:
Gearwrench MegaMod Master Mechanics Tool Sets offer a truly modular way to fully-customize both your tool organization and storage. They offer five sets ranging from 614 to 1,268 pieces—everything coming perfectly organized in modular foam trays. Compared to buying or leasing your tools from a “truck”, mechanics stand to save thousands of dollars. Each set includes tools from more than 15 categories, such as Bolt Biter Extraction products, 90T Ratchets, and a 120XP torque wrench. If you hate the idea of financing your tools over several years, Gearwrench offers an opportunity to get a set of excellent tools on your own terms.
Price: $4,000–$14,800
For more information, click here.
Winner – Ratchets
Gearwrench 4-pc 120XP Flex head Teardrop Ratchet Set
What they said:
Modern cars use smaller and more compact components in the production process, presenting a new challenge for automotive technicians trying to access already hard-to-reach fasteners. As the mechanics of cars evolve, tools need to evolve as well, and GEARWRENCH is elevating access under the hood with the reinvented 120XP Ratchets. The next generation of the 120XP flex head ratchets provide unparalleled access through a precision-engineered head design that is up to 22% more compact than existing ratchets while enhancing the strength of the 120XP at the same time.
In addition to the more compact head, the 120XP ratchets have a longer handle design for improved reach, leverage, and comfort. Two double-stacked pawls engage 60-tooth gears to give 120 positions that deliver a 3° swing arc to turn fasteners in tighter confines. With a lifetime warranty, the 120XP ratchets meet and exceed ASME & ANSI Proof Torque strength specifications. GEARWRENCH’s 120XP Ratchets are offered in ¼”, 3/8” and ½” drives, with extra long handle ratchets and ratchets fitted with standard and flex heads. Sets are also available for the 120XP locking flex head ratchets and standard head ratchets with different handle lengths per drive size.
What we say:
The newest Gearwrench 120XP 4-pc 120XP flex head teardrop ratchet set features a head design that is up to 22% more compact, providing unmatched access in tight spaces, while also enhancing strength. The longer handle design improves reach and leverage, offering greater comfort and control. With 120 positions and a 3° swing arc, these ratchets allow for precise work in confined areas. Meeting ASME & ANSI standards and backed by a lifetime warranty, the 120XP ratchets should make an excellent addition to any mechanic or technician’s toolkit.
Price: $144.50
For more information, click here.
Winner – Sockets
Gearwrench Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts
What they said:
GEARWRENCH has expanded the Bolt Biter family product line, adding the latest product in fastener extraction: the Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts. Designed with professionals in mind, users have long needed a tool to access rounded and rusted bolts in tight, confined spaces and can now do so with up to 70% more access using the Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts. The GEARWRENCH Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts are designed with innovative features to grip rounded-out, frozen, and damaged fasteners. The revolutionary Bolt Biter design is bi-directional, seats quickly and safely on fasteners, and removes easily from fasteners after use. Offering the slimmest solution to removing damaged fasteners in tight and confined spaces, the Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts not only remove stuck fasteners using traditional wrenches technicians already have on hand but also enable the reuse of specialty fasteners, saving users time to complete a job.
The tapered entry is designed to grip and remove damaged, rounded, rusted, and corroded fasteners, while the wrench inserts also include minus sizes that combine to allow the insert to seat easily on any bolt no matter how rusted or damaged it is from its original size. The wrench inserts feature a magnet on the hex base to hold the insert in place on the wrench, allowing the insert to stay in place while removing or reusing fasteners.
The Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts are just the latest innovation to the revolutionary GEARWRENCH extraction line, designed to work with both SAE and Metric fasteners. The high-visibility markings on the insert not only show SAE and Metric sizes, but also the size wrench corresponding to each insert. These sets come in two five-piece counts (SAE and Metric), as well as a 16-piece SAE/Metric set and 30-piece SAE/Metric set.
What we say:
Gearwrench Bolt Biter Wrench Inserts provide the same excellent solution for removing stuck bolts—but do it better in tight, confined spaces. These inserts are engineered to grip and remove rounded and damaged fasteners using the existing wrenches technicians already have. The bi-directional design lets you quickly seat the wrench and remove a bolt or nut quickly, and the tapered entry gives you a secure grip on even the most rounded-over bolts. Gearwrench made the inserts compatible with both SAE and Metric fasteners, and they used high-visibility markings for easy identification.
Price: $104.99–$149.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Impact-Rated Sockets
GripEdge Tools R.P.T. Impact Bit Sockets
What they said:
GripEdge Impact Bit Sockets are engineered with Rounding Prevention Technology (R.P.T.) to grip where conventional tools might slip. The distinctive, patented Bi-directional design is precision machined onto every socket, offering up to 50% additional torque on unused fasteners, and delivering a remarkable increase of up to 400% on worn fasteners when compared to standard tools. Additionally, damaged fasteners can be temporarily re-inserted when an appropriate substitute is not at hand.
Each socket is forged from IMPACT grade Chrome-Moly steel to ensure robustness and endurance. They’re finished with a Manganese phosphate coating to enhance their resistance to corrosion and rust. Additionally, each socket features enlarged, laser-etched size markings for improved readability.
What we say:
GripEdge Impact Bit Sockets feature Rounding Prevention Technology (R.P.T.), which delivers up to 50% more torque on unused fasteners and up to 400% more on worn ones, compared to standard tools. This patented bi-directional design ensures a secure grip where conventional tools might slip, letting damaged fasteners be temporarily reinserted when necessary. Forged from impact-grade chrome-moly steel and coated with manganese phosphate, these sockets should hold up well against corrosion. We also like that each set includes oversized laser-etched size markings, making them easy to identify.
Price: $119.99 – $159.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Welder
YesWelder Firstess DP200 Welder
What they said:
Easy Start with Smart Assistance: Designed specifically for beginners. The intelligent parameter recommendation system ensures users can get started immediately and easily embark on their welding journey.
Versatile Assistant, Economic Choice: Suitable for a variety of common welding tasks, from home repairs to small-scale engineering projects, this welder offers professional quality at an affordable price, making it a cost-effective choice for everyday welding tasks.
What we say:
The YesWelder FIRSTESS MP200 5-in-1 welder & cutter caters to both beginners and professionals. This compact yet powerful tool combines stick, Dual Pulse and Pulse MIG, and TIG welding in a single machine. It just might be the most versatile and economical welder for those looking to tackle a wide range of projects. The DP200 also sports a 7″ LCD display to help you dial in your settings. Finally, the unit weighs just 25 pounds, giving you a truly portable design that runs off either 110V or 220V.
Price: $699
For more information, click here.
Winner – Wrenches
Gearwrench 90T Double Flex Ratcheting Wrench
What they said:
GEARWRENCH has expanded the 90T family product line, adding new innovative ratcheting wrenches with 90T Double Flex GearBox Ratcheting Wrench. Designed with professionals in mind, the 90-tooth gear on ratcheting wrenches requires just four degrees of swing arc to turn fasteners in the tightest of spaces. Each new wrench also features unique qualities to address end user pain points preventing technicians from getting the job done. The 90T Double Flex GearBox Ratcheting Wrenches are perfect for the tight situations technicians face every day.
Their 90-tooth 12-point ratcheting box end turns six and 12-point fasteners with just a four-degree swing arc for improved access, while dual-direction off-corner loading reduces fastener rounding. Also included is an extra-long beam engineered to reach the deepest of fasteners with optimal leverage and strength while offering superior ergonomics and comfort. Manufactured for superior strength and tension, the redesigned flex head can access fasteners around tight corners and flexes through 180 degrees.The 90T Double Flex GearBox Ratcheting Wrenches feature 10 individual sizes, in both SAE and Metric. In addition, there is a six-piece Metric Set and a four-piece SAE set available for purchase on gearwrench.com.
What we say:
Gearwrench 90T Double Flex GearBox Ratcheting Wrenches feature a 90-tooth gear requiring just a four-degree swing arc. These wrenches excel in tight spaces where traditional tools fall short. The 12-point ratcheting box ends improve access while reducing fastener rounding, and the extra-long beam provides excellent leverage when needed. Geawrench also redesigned the flex head to allow 180 degrees of rotation. These wrenches are available in both SAE and Metric sets and as individual tools, so you can get just the sizes you need.
Price: $220.09 (6-pc set)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Torque Wrenches
RAD Torque Systems B-RAD Xtreme (B-RAD X)
What they said:
The B-RAD Xtreme (B-RAD X) is the world’s most powerful cordless torque wrench, offering an unparalleled 11,000 ft. lbs/ 15,000 Nm of torque. Its remarkable torque density, compact design, and speed make it more powerful and ergonomic than any competitor in its class. While many others cap at 5,000 ft. lbs, the B-RAD X starts there and is faster in single-speed gearbox configurations than any other competitor.
As a leader in cordless electric torque tools, it outperforms with its accuracy (4% of target), delivering large operational range down to 10% of scale or better, across the entire product line. The B-RAD X increases productivity with speed, accuracy and its compact design, accommodating more industrial applications than the competition.
What we say:
The B-RAD Xtreme (B-RAD X) bills itself as the world’s most powerful cordless torque wrench—and we have no reason to doubt it!. The tool delivers an impressive 11,000 ft-lbs (15,000 Nm) of torque from a compact, ergonomic design. Resembling a cordless drill, the B-RAD X offers both speed and precision with an accuracy of 4% of the target torque. Its broad operational range and rapid performance in single-speed gearbox configurations make it ideal for a wide array of demanding industrial tasks.
Price: Varies depending upon configuration
For more information, click here.