Field Tools and Equipment

This is the time of the year for giving and getting gifts. Of course, it's also a good time of year to assess your firm's assets and inventory and see what needs to be replaced, restocked or supplemented. Either way, that means checking out the latest hand tools, power tools, toolboxes, ladders, truck and van accessories, vacuums, boots, personal protective equipment, fasteners and batteries.

Advanced technology, safety and environmental concerns play a large role in the innovations being introduced in these product categories. Lighter-weight tools have ergonomic grips designed to prevent wear and tear on the body. Other tools have attached dust collectors to minimize pollution in clients' homes and in your lungs.

At the same time, manufacturers are adding power, increasing durability, and making tools more adjustable to improve functionality and your field employees' performance. New security features keep those precious tools from walking off the job.

So get out those markers, circle your favorite(s), and leave the magazine laying out on the table or desk. If there's more than one of you reading it, you might want to put your name next to your favorite.

Vaughn has added a curved fiberglass hammer to its line of Blue Max California framers. The curved design and shock-absorbing hollow core handle of this 21-ounce hammer allows a more natural alignment of the wrist and forearm to minimize fatigue and long-term risk of arm injury. All Blue Max hammers feature the Head-Start magnetic nail-holder, an extra large, milled striking face and a high-impact overstrike guard for increased handle protection. The Blue Max series offers 11 framing hammers that range in length from 16 to 18 inches with head weights of 19 to 23 ounces.
www.vaughanmfg.com

The 800-Watt, two-stage turbine Earlex Spray Station 5000 is the newest in the line of HVLP (High Volume/Low Pressure) spraying systems. Lighter and quieter than buzz guns, the spray station applies a professional finish with less overspray and no visible brush marks. The adjustable gun nozzle allows for three spray patterns: round, horizontal and vertical. It comes with a 9.5-foot hose, a 5.6-foot main cable, two masks and weighs 12.3 pounds.
888/783-2612
www.earlex.com

Klein has introduced a line of insulated hand tools that protect users against shock from energized sources up to 1,000 volts. The handles are constructed of a flame-retardant, impact-resistant outer coating and a thick, high-dielectric inner coating bonded to the forged steel handle. Handles also feature Klein Cushion-Grip material for greater torque.
800/553-4647
www.kleintools.com

ProVent's weather-proof code box stores plans and displays building permits on the job site. Available in two versions: one for posting permits and address numbers and the other a lockable version that stores plans in addition to posting permits. The combination lock eliminates keys and provides easy access for inspectors, architects, engineers and subcontractors.
866/782-8862
www.pro-vent.com

Job Site Armor is Milwaukee's new line of heavy-duty safety equipment, including safety eyewear, work gloves, hearing protection and respiratory protection. Job Site Armor features lightweight materials, a high level of adjustability and over-molded contact points that meet or exceed standard industrial safety guidelines.
800/SAWDUST
www.milwaukeetool.com

Bosch BlueCore batteries provide up to 50 percent more cordless battery life, according to the manufacturer. The single and dual-bay chargers will charge the batteries within 30 minutes. BlueCore batteries are compatible with all Bosch cordless power tools. These NiCad batteries come in 9.6, 12, 14.4, 18 and 24 volts. The charger also charges older generation batteries.
877/BOSCH-99
www.boschtools.com

DeWalt's heavy-duty 12" double-bevel compound miter saw features a 15-amp, 3,600 rpm motor that provides extended power and durability. Includes adjustable miter detent plate with 11 positive stops. Sliding fences support crown molding up to 6 5/8" nested and base molding up to 6½" vertically. Will bevel left and right 0–48 degrees with positive stops at 0, 33.9, 45 and 48 degrees by flipping the saw instead of the material.
800/433-9258
www.dewalt.com

Pam Fastening Technology's Copperhead line of wood screws are recommended for ACQ, CBA-A and CA-B treated lumber. Designed for use with Pam's P13 autofeed screwdriver system and available in collated strips of 50 screws. Copperhead screws use an anti-corrosion coating that withstands 1,500 hours of salt spray testing. Available in 2", 2½" and 3" sizes.
704/394-3141
www.pamfast.com

The new self-leveling multi-beam line generator projects four self-leveling cross lines plus one down-beam for precision measurements. Features 360-degree adjustment and a low-voltage indicator. Can be used with a laser detector, indoors or out. Includes a hardshell carrying case and locking mechanism to protect the inner pendulum during transport.
262/242-1161
www.johnsonlevel.com

Ridgid's heavy duty ½" VSR right angle drill has a high-performance 8-amp extended life motor designed to operate in dusty, abusive job site conditions. Features auto-stop brushes that halt the drill's operation when the brushes are worn, before they can damage the motor. It has three speed options — 300, 600 and 1,200 rpm — and an automatic safety clutch that disengages the bit from the gear train to reduce risk of kickback.
800/4-RIDGID
www.ridgid.com

The RotoZip FS2 Flex Shaft attachment expands the diverse Spiral Saw system by converting the tool into a lightweight precision sanding, grinding, polishing, carving and detailing tool. FS2 quickly attaches to any new RotoZip spiral saw and works with a wide range of Dremel accessories as a solution for accessing hard-to-reach or tight work areas. A simple shaft lock button makes any 1/16" to 1/8" diameter accessory change quickly and easily.
877/ROTOZIP
www.rotozip.com