New hand tools

New models extend user reach and power

Four-in-one high-tension
hacksaw cuts anywhere
Cooper Hand Tools’ new Nicholson Pro Series 4-in-1 high tension hacksaw has blades and a frame that can be configured in four distinct ways: general use, flush cuts, work in tight spaces, and inside jab cuts.

The standard configuration as a 90 degree hacksaw features high-tension technology that allows the user to tension the blade to as much as 30,000 psi.

The hacksaw offers increased durability with a heavy-duty reciprocal saw blade which is much stronger than hacksaw blades typically used in convertible tools.

The unit has magnetic storage for an extra hacksaw or reciprocal saw blade. It also features cushioned rubber grips for better control, comfort and reduced slippage. Item 145

Hammer handle
curves for natural 
hand-arm alignment
Vaughan & Bushnell has added a curved fiberglass handle to its Blue Max California Framing hammer line. This 21 oz. fiberglass handle provides a more natural alignment of the wrist and forearm which minimizes fatigue and long-term risk of arm injury. The shock-absorbing hollow-core handle helps reduce sting.

The hammer, like others in the Blue Max line, has the Head-Start magnetic nail-holding notch for increased reach and one-handed nail starting. The striking surface has an extra-large milled striking face and a high-impact overstrike guard for increased handle protection. Item 147

Tool-free utility
knife blade changes
The Dolphin knife system from Bon Tool Co. has a fast, tool-free blade change system that allows the user to change it from a basic utility knife to a drywall saw or laminate scorer.

The large, user-friendly die-cast handle has a storage compartment for blades and comes with a high-impact polypropylene holster with a leather belt strap for safe, convenient storage even if the blade is exposed.

The tool is designed for cutting floor coverings, roofing materials, drywall, carpeting and other heavy materials. Item 148

Take measurements via laser
Stanley recently introduced the FatMax TruLaser TLM 100 distance measurer that uses laser technology to make accurate measurements up to 100' away with an accuracy of +/-1/4".

The TLM 100 uses laser technology that is much more accurate than laser-guided sonic devices. While this technology has been available for a few years at a cost of hundreds of dollars, the TLM 100 is now available for under $100.

The unit can also calculate area, has a memory to store measurements and has a built-in calculator. The unit has a single point and push ON/measurement button. Item 149

Tool box in the
palm of your hand
The Twist-a-Nut 7-in-1 screwdriver/nutdriver from Ideal Industries is a time-saving tool that contains the most popular screwdriver bits used by professionals. Plus, a universal connector wrench formed into the bottom of the handle accepts twist-on connectors.

The Ideal deburrer and tap tools also fit into the bottom of the handle, increasing the tool’s versatility.

The Twist-a-Nut has 3/16" and 1/4" slotted heads, a #1 and #2 Phillips head, a 1/4" and 5/16" nutdriver and the patented connector wrench.

The Twist-a-Nut is Ideal Industries’ first screwdriver to feature a two-part dual durometer grip. Soft, black Santoprene material is overmolded on the outer surface for greater comfort and improved torque; a harder, high-visibility yellow Santoprene material is used for the ends and inner surface to assure toughness. Item 150

Rotary angle/
pitch meter
Tajima introduces the Slant AL200 that can be used to measure, verify or replicate any angle or pitch. Simply place the tool on the surface to be measured and rotate the scale until the bubble centers, then read the angle. The strong magnetic base makes it ideal for steel construction.

The easy-to-read angle meter is calibrated to two-degree increments. It also comes with handy conversion charts and reference graphics to assure proper measurement. Item 151

Quick-adjusting locking pliers
Irwin’s new Vise-Grip GrooveLock pliers will adjust quickly with the push of a button. Plus, its all-purpose jaw fits a variety of workpieces and fasteners of almost any shape.

The pliers have a Press-N-Slide button that quickly and easily adjusts to the job at hand. The all-purpose jaws are designed with twice as many grooves so users can ratchet the unit to a precise fit and to maintain a natural and comfortable hand position. The tool is available in 8", 10" and 12" sizes. Item 152

Smaller size for 
all the right angles
The Starrett Pro Site miter saw protractor allows you to achieve perfect miters without the math and waste. The durable, 1/4" aluminum with Teflon O-ring offers smooth and precise operation. The miter cut red scale and arrow show the exact setting for making perfect miter joints; the single cut black scale and arrow show the exact setting for perfectly fitting a single workpiece to any angle. 

The new 7" model is small enough to get into tight spaces, such as fitting base molding into a corner with a door casing close by. Item 153

Published in the September 2005 issue of Contractor Tools and Supplies magazine.

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