Tool News
August 2009
Dowelmax at Lee Valley Tools
Dowelemax is now available at Lee Valley Tools, check out the catalogue listing here.
Bernzomatic BZ8250HT
BernzOmatic® introduces the new Trigger Start Hose Torch. This torch redefines mobility and comfort for torch users.
The Trigger Start Hose Torch is one of the most advanced torches in the market today and is BernzOmatic’s most comfortable and portable torch. Its industry-leading five-foot hose and fuel cylinder holster make it much easier to maneuver and work in hard-to-reach places. The lightweight, ergonomic design provides ultra comfort and fit, adding to the control and maneuverability of the torch.
This professional grade torch’s high intensity swirl flame provides a hotter, more efficient flame to get the job done faster. Like all BernzOmatic torches, it is constructed for durability, with a solid brass regulator that’s pressure-regulated to burn in any direction, and a stainless steel burn tube that’s built to last. The instant-on/off trigger igniter enables simple, one-handed operation; and the adjustable flame control knob allows the user to easily size the flame for specific applications and uses. It also includes a lock button to keep the torch lit for finger-free use.
The fuel cylinder holster that’s included with this torch attaches easily and securely with a comfortable belt clip. It has a carrying handle for added portability, and a burn tube holder to store the burn tube when the torch is not in use.
All Trigger Start Hose Torches include a complimentary fuel cylinder holster for added mobility. It’s available in a torch-only package, or as an integrated solution that includes BernzOmatic’s latest premium fuel, the Fat Boy™ Max Power Propylene fuel cylinder.
The Trigger Start Hose Torch retails for about $89.99, including fuel. It is available at home centres, retail hardware stores, and industrial tool distributors.
Hitachi Power Tools Introduces a 12V Peak Cordless Lithium Ion Tool Series
Hitachi Power Tools introduces a new series of micro-size power tools to the cordless landscape. The launch of the 12Volt Peak series includes a micro Lithium-Ion Driver Drill, the DS10DFL, a micro Lithium Ion Impact Driver, the WH10DFL and a combination of both tools in a 2-piece combo kit, the KC10DFL. The main advantage to the 12V Peak series is their convenient micro stature that allows them fit into places where conventional counterparts will not,along with impressive performance and power seemingly unexpected in such a small package. These Lithium Ion tools are covered by Hitachi’s 10-Year Lithium Ion Tool warranty and 2-Year Lithium Ion battery warranty for even more value and peace of mind.
Both the DS10DFL and WH10DFL come with Hitachi’s environmentally-friendly 1.5 Ah HXP Lithium Ion batteries that deliver a steady stream of power throughout every charge, unlike traditional batteries that undergo a power fade from the moment the trigger is pulled. Hitachi’s patented battery charger features unique circuitry that prevents overheating or power loss, ultimately extending the life of the Lithium Ion battery and saving the user from costly replacements.
Responsive variable speed triggers featured on both tools provide complete control during use. LED lights positioned under the chucks effectively illuminate the work surfaces while in use. Additionally, by partially depressing the trigger, the LED light activates before the driver is set in motion for convenience during set up. Due to Hitachi’s handle and battery configuration, both 12V Peak tools are designed to stand freely on their base. Many competitive models must be inconveniently laid down on their sides when not in use.
The DS10DFL 12V Peak Lithium Ion Micro Driver Drill is impressively lightweight at 2.2 lbs and compact at less than 8" in length. With 195 in/lbs of turning torque and featuring a 3/8" keyless chuck, it is the ideal drill for precision drilling and driving applications including general fastening and hardware installations, HVAC and electrical operations, computer and electronic equipment repair, furniture assembly and fine finish work. It features a best-in-class 21+1 stage clutch (21 torque settings and 1 drill setting) for accuracy and control. This micro driver drill comes complete with two 12V Peak 1.5Ah Lithium Ion batteries, a quick charger and a Phillips Driver Bit - all packaged in a durable carrying case.
The WH10DFL 12V Peak Lithium Ion Micro Impact Driver is impressively lightweight at 2.2 lbs and compact at less than 6" in length. With 840 in/lbs of turning torque (more than any cordless driver drill) and featuring a quick change 1⁄4" hex chuck that allows for simple bit replacements, it is the ideal impact driver for when the job gets tough, such as driving self-tapping masonry anchors into concrete, brick or block, or heavy fastening application with lag bolts. As the resistance of the load increases, the impact action is engaged to greatly increase torque to power through the most challenging tasks.
This micro impact driver comes complete with two 12V Peak 1.5Ah Lithium Ion batteries, a quick charger and a Phillips driver bit- all packaged in a durable carrying case.
The KC10DFL 12V Peak 2-Piece Micro Combo Kit combines the DS10DFL 12V Peak Lithium Ion Micro Driver Drill and the WH10DFL 12V Peak Lithium Ion Micro Impact Driver described above for a complete 12V Peak cordless solution conveniently packaged together.
The micro combo kit comes complete with two 12V Peak 1.5Ah Lithium Ion batteries, a quick charger and a Phillips driver bit- all packaged in a durable carrying bag.
This series is powered by Hitachi’s environmentally friendly 1.5Ah 12V Peak Lithium Ion batteries. Hitachi now refers to the Micro Series line as 12V Peak following a new industry trend referring to lithium ion battery voltage ratings by the initial no-load peak voltage when fully charged, not the nominal voltage under a typical load. Hitachi’s “Peak” voltage is 12-12.4V for the Micro series line. The nominal voltage is 10.8V. Hitachi’s 12V Peak Micro Lithium Ion batteries are 100% compatible with all past and future Hitachi Micro Series tools.
Milwaukee® Introduces New Shockwave Impact Duty™ Accessories
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation introduces over 80 new products in its new line of Shockwave™ Impact Duty accessories. Delivering high performance and functionality, the full range solution was designed to stand up to elevated and extreme torque applications. The line includes high performance drill bits, nut drivers, sockets, bit holders and adapters.
"Impact tools are one of the fastest growing tool segments in the market today, but many accessory lines cannot hold up under the high torque of impact applications,” says Mike Kirby, Sr. Product Manager-Accessories of Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. "The new Shockwave™ Impact Duty Accessories offer a wider range of solutions for every user, and are engineered to absorb the stress of higher torque applications."
Made from a custom engineered steel and heat treated for high shock resistance, the Shockwave™ Impact Duty driver bits feature an innovatively designed Shock Zone™ geometry to absorb impact. In addition, a compressed forged tip delivers an ideal fit and eliminates breakage. The combination of proprietary material, heat treatment, and geometry deliver up to 10X longer life than the competition.
The product offering also includes user friendly features such as color coding on the nut drivers for easy size identifications and a thin wall construction on the professional grade sockets for easy access in tight areas. Broadly targeting cordless users, the Shockwave™ Impact Duty accessory line is not only ideal for heavy duty impact applications, but is a full system solution for all the user’s drilling and fastening needs.