The Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Packs A Serious Punch In A Compact Frame

The Hilti Nuron cordless impact driver is part of the latest generation of tools coming down the pipe from Hilti and it’s boasting eye-opening performance improvements. We’re putting it to the test and diving deeper to see how it compares to Hilti’s other cordless impact drivers.

Pros

• Strongest impact driver we’ve tested
• Significant improvement in performance compared to the SID 4-A22
• More compact than the previous model
• Excellent ergonomics
• LED light ring surrounding the collet
• Nuron technology

Cons

• Slower driving light and medium-size fasteners than some competitors
• On the heavy side when you’re not using the most compact battery

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Performance

Diving into the details on this impact driver reveals some truly impressive specs. It’s Hilti’s most powerful 1/4-inch impact driver and the most powerful we’ve seen on paper. The brushless motor produces up to 2,655 in-lbs of torque. The previous leader was Flex at 2500 in-lbs.

For speed, it’s a bit slower than some of the top dogs, topping out at 3600 RPM. With some models hitting 4000 RPM or more in high speed, we expect this to run a little slower with light to medium-size fasteners.

That’s not an unusual move with impact tools, though. If you consider impact wrenches, as they grow in overall power from compact through mid-torque all the way to high-torque, the top speed tends to drop.

That’s what we saw in our 8-inch GRK rugged structural screws test. Driving into stacked OSB, Hilti’s Nuron impact driver averaged 10.4 seconds. That’s significantly slower than the 5.8 seconds of Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel which currently holds the record.

Before we close the door on this part of the conversation, there are a couple of important takeaways. First, it’s a big jump from the SID 4-A22 on Hilti’s previous line. That one had just 2700 RPM and a max torque of 1717 in-lbs.

The other side is the impressive torque level. Particularly in wood fastening when adapters and bits hold up better, you can drive lag screws and other large fasteners… all the way up to M16 bolts according to Hilti’s ratings.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Design Notes

Ergonomics

The textured and contoured grip is very comfortable and gives you a ton of control during long periods of use, or when working overhead. With the recommended B 22-85 battery in place, the SID 6-22 has a good balance and isn’t too top or bottom-heavy.

While it’s still a beefy tool (2.2 pounds bare, 3.9 pounds with a 4.0Ah battery), it’s more compact than the SID 4-A22. Measuring 5.4 inches from front to back, it’s about 1/2 an inch shorter.

LED Worklight

One thing we love about this impact driver is the LED light ring surrounding the collet. It helps to fully illuminate the work area and has a diffuser on it which softens the light and cuts glare on your material.

Additional Features

• Protective rubber bumpers
• One-handed bit insertion

Hilti Cordless Impact Driver Quick Comparison

Nuron Technology Benefits

With Nuron’s updated battery design, we expect longer runtime, especially when you need to keep the tool under a heavier load for longer periods of time. It’s a combination of cell selection, cooling technology, and lower resistance of the pack design that makes it happen. All of that works together to power this impact driver more efficiently than before.

On the inventory management side of things, the batteries’ ability to automatically store and transmit data about the tool and battery can be a big help. Even if You’re using multiple tools with one battery, it stores the data and transmits it via the charger when you put it on.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Price

This Hilti Nuron retails for $169 as a bare tool. From there, you can customize your kit with the exact batteries and chargers you want. Hilti backs the tool with its signature 20-year warranty, 2 years of free service, and 1-day turnaround on service.

If you’re looking to outfit an entire tool crib, be sure to check out Hilti’s fleet pricing program. It includes free service, maintenance, and loaner tools to help mitigate downtime. On this program, the price for the SID 6-22 comes to $5.50 per month.

Compatible Batteries

• 2.5Ah (B 22-55): $84 each (most compact option)
• 4.0 Ah (B 22-85): $114 each (best for balancing size and weight with performance and runtime)
• 8.0 Ah (B 22-170): $174 each (best for long runtime and extra performance but heavy)
• 12.0 Ah (B 22-255): $204 each (compatible but not recommended due to size and weight)

The Bottom Line

The Hilti SID 6-22 impact driver is another example of how Nuron technology is resulting in significantly higher performance. It leaves its predecessor in the dust with far greater speed and torque. While it still has some room to grow in speed, its impressive power makes it far more capable of driving large fasteners than its competition.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Hilti SID 6-22
• Power Source: Hilti Nuron 22V battery
• Chuck Type: 1/4 in. hex collet
• Max Torque: 2655 in-lbs
• No-Load Speed: 1800/2700/3600 RPMs
• Impact Rate: 4250 IPM
• Weight: 2.2 lbs (bare), 3.9 lbs (with recommended B 22-85 battery)
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 5.4 x 2.7 x 8.1 in.
• Warranty: 20-year
• Price: $169 (bare tool), $5.50/mo. (fleet pricing)

The post Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Review SID 6-22 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Skil 12V Brushless Drill Drops Size While Maintaining Performance

The big draw for 12V power tools is undoubtedly their compact size and lightweight design. Well, the folks over at Skil decided they could do better with its 12V drill offerings. We’re taking a close-up look at the Skil PWRCore 12V 2-Speed Brushless Drill and Hammer Drill to see what’s changed from the previous generation.

Want more drills? Check out our top cordless drill recommendations!

Skil 12V Brushless Drill Performance

As far as performance is concerned, Skil really didn’t make any changes from the previous models. These drills employ brushless motors that produce up to 450 RPM in low gear and 1,700 RPM in high gear. The torque tops out at 350 in-lbs.

If you go with the hammer drill (which we recommend), you get the additional 6750 BPM in low and 25500 BPM in high gear to help with concrete and masonry drilling.

So what does that mean in terms of real-world performance?

With this kind of performance, you have the power to tackle most of your everyday household drilling and driving tasks. We found that it was confident while driving screws and drilling with a full range of twist bit sizes.

For the sake of science (and to satisfy our own curiosity), we tested several types of bits and found that a 1-inch spade bit or auger bit is about as big as this drill is comfortable with. We successfully drilled with a 1 1/2-inch self-feed bit, but it’s making the drill work hard at that point. If you find yourself needing a bit more power, consider one of Skil’s full-sized models for the best performance.

Skil 12V Brushless Drill Design Notes

Ergonomics

The most significant change for these drills is definitely the size reduction. The drill is 6.06 inches from end to end and the hammer drill measures 6.54 inches. That’s almost an entire inch shorter compared to their predecessors!

Bare, the drill weighs 1.9 pounds while the hammer drill clocks in at 2.1 pounds. There’s a slight drop in weight from the previous models.

Along with being compact, they feel very comfortable in the hand. The grip is slightly angled forward which makes for a more favorable working angle when using this drill.

Additional Features

• LED light
• Reversible belt hook
• Ratcheting 1/2-inch chuck
• 17 clutch settings
• Tether ready
• Bit holder on the back of the foot
• Compatible with all Skil PWRCore 12 batteries

Skil 12V Brushless Hammer Drill Quick Comparison

Skil 12V Brushless Drill Price

These Skil 12V drills are hitting the shelves with an exceptionally attractive price tag. The drill driver kit retails for $69.99 and the hammer drill kit is only $99.00! Both come with a 12V 2.0Ah battery, an upgraded PWRJump charger, and a 5-year warranty. Plus, the batteries feature a USB-A port on the back so they can double as a portable power supply for your devices.

The Bottom Line

As we mentioned earlier, the big deal with these drills is their significant drop in size without losing anything on the performance side. Not to mention, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a deal much better than this. I mean, a compact brushless drill kit under $100 and a killer warranty to back it up? Yes, please!

Overall, these drills are a fantastic option for homeowners and DIYers that you’ll enjoy much more than what some of the other DIY brands offer. The hammer drill, in particular, is also a good option for Pros that want a high-value compact supplement to their premium workhorse drills for light-duty work.

Specifications

• Model: Skil DL6290A-00 (drill), HD6290A-00 (hammer drill)
• Power Source: Skil PWRCore 12V battery
• No-Load Speed: 0-450/1,700
• Blow Rate (Hammer Drill Only): 0-6,750/25,500 BPM
• Chuck: 1/2-inch
• Max Torque: 350 in-lbs.
• Length: 6.06 inches (drill), 6.54 inches (hammer drill)
• Weight: 1.90 lbs. (drill), 2.01 lbs. (hammer drill)
• Warranty: 5-year
• Price: $69.99 (drill), $99.00 (hammer drill)

The post Skil 12V Brushless Drill and Hammer Drill Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Puts Power And Control In The Palm Of Your Hand

Any auto mechanic will tell you that an impact wrench is a must-have—and you’re likely going to need more than one. Ryobi is improving its game with an 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench and we’re taking a closer look to see what benefits it offers.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Performance

Fastening Power

Many fastening jobs don’t require a ton of power to tighten or remove nuts and bolts, especially in the automotive industry. Too much force while tightening can damage your material, strip threads, or even snap the head off altogether.

Stepping down to the compact class from the larger P262 and PBLIW01 models, the Ryobi PSBIW25 is capable of producing up to 275 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It can also reach speeds up to 2,800 RPM and has a max impact rate of 3,800 IPM.

I got the opportunity to put this model to work when I changed out the brakes on my Honda Ridgeline. This compact impact wrench had no problem loosening the lug nuts or breaking those stubborn caliper bolts. That’s not a surprise with the power level this model is at. What’s nice is how easily I was able to work in tighter spaces (more on that in a minute).

Thinking more broadly, Ryobi touches a higher power level than most compact impact wrenches. It can handle most of your passenger vehicle needs along with large construction fasteners. Stubborn lugnuts and neglected fasteners may still need a true mid-torque or even a high-torque option, though.

4-Mode Speed Selection

Control of the performance centers around a 4-mode speed selection that dials in the brushless motor. The controls sit on the foot of the tool. Just press the button to cycle between its three standard modes and an auto mode.

The auto mode is incredibly helpful. In forward, it runs at 2,200 RPM, similar to mode 2, up until the first few impacts before automatically shutting off. Once it sets lightly, you can use your torque wrench to set the proper torque without worrying about over-torquing.

When in reverse, the auto mode will automatically stop rotation once the nut or bolt breaks loose. This is really nice because it allows you to hand-thread it the rest of the way instead of having it roll away.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Design Notes

Ergonomics

The grip on this compact impact wrench is definitely on the larger side compared to many of the tools that pass through our shop. That’s normal for Ryobi, though. It has the feel of a full-sized tool and feels very secure in my hand. They even incorporated a small finger choil on the front of the rubber overmold for a little extra bit of comfort while using this tool.

From end to end this impact wrench measures 5.75 inches and it stands 9.75 inches tall with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery. As far as weight is concerned, it hit the scale at 2.4 pounds as a bare tool and 4.0 pounds even with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery. If you wanted to lighten things up a little, consider using one of Ryobi’s 2.0Ah High Performance batteries—this configuration only weighs 3.4 pounds.

Remember the higher power level we talked about? This is where the trade-off occurs. Compact impact wrenches are typically a bit smaller and lighter than Ryobi’s when you’re looking at premium professional brands. What we have is an impact wrench that sits in between premium compact and mid-torque classes.

But what about other Prosumer specialists in the 1/2-inch class with similar power? Compared to the high-value Skil PWRCore 20 IW5739, Ryobi offers a 3/8-inch shorter length. It’s more than 1 1/4 inches shorter than Craftsman’s CMCF921. It’s also lighter than both.

LED Light

One thing I really like about this tool is that Ryobi moved away from the typical foot-mounted light and instead uses a tri-beam design around the anvil. This style provides much better visibility in low-light situations. The only real disadvantage to this setup is larger sockets can obstruct the light and cast a shadow on your work surface. Other than that small issue, we’re happy with this design.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Price

This compact impact wrench retails for $139.00 as a bare tool and at the time we’re writing this there are no kit options available. Ryobi warranties this impact wrench for 3 years so be sure to register your tools for fast and easy customer service!

The Bottom Line

We’re used to Ryobi bridging the gap between DIY and Pro models. By moving ahead of its Prosumer competition in both power and size, the PSBIW25 bridges the gap between Prosumer and Pro models and stands alone as the top Prosumer compact impact wrench currently available.

Check out more Ryobi impact wrenches by clicking here.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Ryobi PSBIW25
• Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
• No-load Speed: 0-850/2,100/2,800/2,200 RPM
• Max Torque: 275 ft-lbs
• Impact Rate: 3,800 IPM
• Anvil Size: 1/2 in.
• Anvil Type: Friction ring
• Weight: 2.4 lbs (bare), 3.4 lbs (with 2.0Ah High-Performance battery), 4.0 lbs (with 4.0Ah High-Performance battery)
• Head Length: 5.75 in.
• Warranty: 3-year
• Price: $139 (bare)

The post Ryobi HP Compact Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Greenworks 24V Cordless Speed Saw Makes Quick Work Of More Than Drywall

Anyone who has ever tried their hand at drywall work will tell you that it’s no easy task, especially when it comes time to cut out switches and outlets. It’s messy, and using a jab saw is a pain. Luckily, the Greenworks 24V Cordless Speed Saw is here to help move things along a little quicker and might just be more versatile than you realize.

Greenworks Cordless Speed Saw Cut-Out Tool Performance

The single-speed brushless motor spins the bit up to 27,000 RPM allowing it to smoothly glide through material with ease. The on/off slide switch is in a convenient spot to easily access without having to reposition your hand.

Despite the speed, rotary saws like these tend to leave a messy edge, so get a little practice on some scrap material if this is a new type of tool for you.

You might think that rotary cut-out tools are for drywall and that’s partially correct. They’re also useful for dense foam, plaster, and plywood, making them more versatile than some folks realize.

However, we definitely recommend using both PPE in the way of glasses and a mask because these tools can make one heck of a mess no matter what you’re cutting in. If you have a vacuum, check out Milwaukee’s Air-Tip Dust Collector accessory as a way to contain the dust more easily.

Greenworks Cordless Speed Saw Cut-Out Tool Design Notes

Ergonomics

As rotary tools go, the Greenworks speed saw has a competitive weight and profile that are both comfortable for longer cuts and easy on the hands. From tip to tail it measures 9.25 inches with the depth guide fully extended and the main handle is only two inches in diameter. Along with being compact, it weighs in at just 2.75 pounds with a 2.0Ah battery.

The barrel grip design feels similar to a compact router and allows for various hand positions. This gives you excellent control when making precise cuts.

Depth Adjustments

Adjusting the tool-free depth guide is easy. Just loosen the plastic nut to adjust the guard and tighten it back down when you’re ready to work. Greenworks designed this guard with just over an inch of travel so you can dial in an exact cutting depth.

Bits and Accessories

The bare tool comes standard with a 1/8-inch wood bit and a 1/8-inch drywall bit along with a 1/4-inch collet insert. This allows you to use two different size bits depending on your application.

Additional Features

• Tether ready
• Multi-position belt hook

Greenworks Cordless Speed Saw Cut-Out Tool Price

The Greenworks 24V Cordless Speed Saw retails for $49.99 as a bare tool or $99.99 as a 2.0 battery/charger kit from Amazon. Either way, it’s not a bad deal when you consider the time you’re likely to save on some of your upcoming projects. It’s also backed by a 3-year limited tool warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Greenworks 24V Cordless Speed Saw packs excellent performance under the hood and it has a price tag that’s hard to pass up. All in all, this is a great option for DIYers that like to tackle intermediate to advanced home improvement/remodeling projects as well as handymen and building maintenance crews who want a high-value option for occasional tasks.

Greenworks Cordless Speed Saw Cut-Out Tool Specifications

• Model: Greenworks SW24B00
• Power Source: Greenworks 24V battery
• No-Load Speed: 27,000 RPM
• Bits Accepted: 1/8 in. and 1/4 in.
• Weight: 1.75 lbs. (bare), 2.75 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Length: 9.25 in.
• Warranty: 3-year limited
• Price: $49.99 (bare), $99.99 (kit)

The post Greenworks 24V Cordless Speed Saw Cut-Out Tool Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Improves Performance While Reducing Size

If you’re in the market for a compact impact wrench, oftentimes you’ll have to sacrifice performance for size…but what if it didn’t have to be that way? As we’re continuing our dive into the updated Skil PWRCore 20C lineup, we turn our attention to the Skil Compact Impact Wrench.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Performance

Under The Hood

On paper, you can expect up to 170 ft-lbs of fastening torque, 220 ft-lbs of break-away torque, and 3,950 IPM for driving tough nuts and bolts. Additionally, the brushless motor peaks out at 2,850 RPM—450 RPM faster than PWECore 20 1/2-inch model.

Drive Modes

Skil’s 20V compact impact wrench features three main speed modes as well as a reverse control mode. This allows you to dial in the speed to match whatever material or fasteners you’re working with. Here’s a quick look at the speed you can expect in each mode:

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Quick Comparison

The big deal with Skil’s next-generation compact lineup is that Skil is making smaller tools that are outperforming their previous versions, like the Skil IW5739. There is a considerable jump in speed, torque, and impact rate when looking at this compact model.

Using Reverse Control Mode

In reverse control mode, the tool loosens a bolt or nut at high-speed first. Once the nut or bolt
is completely loose, the tool will stop automatically to prevent it from threading off.

The mode is available only when the tool is set in reverse rotation. If you switch the tool to forward rotation while in reverse control mode, the impact force and speed are the same as the high-speed mode 3.

Applications

With 170 ft-lbs of forward torque and 220 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, there’s a wide range of light to medium-duty tasks you can accomplish. It should be plenty to remove properly-fastened lug nuts on passenger vehicles, handle the fasteners in tight spots around your brake calipers, and deal with the many of the hex-head construction fasteners you come across.

You still need a mid-torque impact wrench for stubborn or larger fasteners, but you might be surprised just how much of your work this compact model can do for you.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Notes

Ergonomics

The Skil compact impact wrench weighs in at 2.0 pounds even as a bare tool and 3.1 pounds with the kitted 2.0Ah battery. Keeping with the compact theme, it also measures 4.8 inches from end to end which makes it ideal for accessing those hard-to-reach nuts and bolts.

Ergonomically, this impact wrench feels really good in the hand. The contoured grip features some aggressive grooves and texturing that helped me maintain a firm hold on the tool even in the sweltering central Florida heat.

LED Light

Much like most modern tools, this impact wrench features an LED light for low-light conditions. This tool includes a diffused halo-style light that surrounds the anvil and it’s a more effective way of lighting than foot-mounted lights.

In addition to the trigger activation, there’s also an option to turn it on for 10 minutes and to turn it back off if you don’t need the light for the full time.

Additional Features

• Tether ready
• Reversible belt hook

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Price

This cordless impact wrench kit retails for $129.99 and includes a single PWRCore 20V 2.0Ah battery and a PWRJump charger. Skil accompanies this kit with a 5-year tool warranty and a 2-year battery warranty when you register.

The Bottom Line

Overall, we really like the performance and design improvements of the Skil 20V Compact Impact Wrench. The boost in speed, torque, and control cement this tool’s reputation as a true workhorse for serious DIYers. It’s also a great option for Pros on a budget who need the benefits of a compact impact wrench from time to time.

Skil Compact Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Skil IW6739B-00
• Power Source: Skil PWRCore 20V battery
• Anvil Size: 3/8 in.
• Anvil Type: Friction Ring
• Fastening Torque: 170 ft-lbs.
• Break-Away Torque: 220 ft-lbs.
• No-Load Speed: 0-1,500/2,250/2,850 RPM
• Impact Rate: 2,100/3,400/3,950 IPM
• Weight: 2.0 lbs. (bare), 3.1 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5-year
• Price: $129.99

The post Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Masterforce Upgrades Brushless Circular Saw with Boost Package

The Masterforce Boost 20V cordless circular saw doesn’t look much different than its brushless predecessor. It’s what’s inside that counts, though. We decided to take a deeper dive and see what’s noteworthy about this updated model.

Pros

• Brushless motor with Boost upgrade
• Smooth guard action
• Base glides well over material
• All-metal blade cover, blade guard, bevel clamp, and depth clamp
• Excellent performance for the price

Cons

• No major drawbacks

Masterforce Boost Cordless Circular Saw Performance

The Masterforce Boost cordless circular saw uses its brushless motor to drive a 7-1/4″ blade. With a no-load speed of 4800 RPM, this saw cuts smoothly and the blade leaves a nice finish for a stock blade. The guard action is nice and smooth as well.

For more aggressive, quick cuts, you can feel the motor start to drop RPMs under a heavier load. It feels a lot like the Pro-level cordless circular saws from just a couple of years ago. It’s perfectly capable of making the cut—even compound miter cuts aren’t a problem. It’s just not going to have the hot-knife-through-butter feel that today’s premium-level saws do. However, it doesn’t have the same high-dollar price tag, either.

The max cutting capacity at 90º is 2 7/16 inches while at 45º, you can cut up to 1 13/16 inches.

The bevel maxes out at 56º and a flip-out plastic piece gives you a stop at 45º. That handles the majority of common cuts out there, so we don’t have any complaints on the capacity front.

Boost Upgrade

The Boost upgrade for this saw is primarily an inside job. Instead of just using a brushless motor to improve the performance, runtime, and life of the tool, Boost completes the package with updated electronics and a smarter battery system.

When the tool detects a Boost battery, it’s able to call on more power and give it a bump in performance. Compared to the previous brushless model, you’ll notice similar performance with a standard battery and more confidence in the cut with a Boost pack.

Masterforce Boost Cordless Circular Saw Design Notes

The Build

Masterforce sticks with metal components for the base, blade cover, and blade guard. Often, high-value saws go for plastic blade guards, and we like that Masterforce avoids that temptation.

On their brushed FlexPower model, the lever locks for the bevel and depth were plastic as opposed to metal. Those levers were a little more flexible than I prefer, so we’re happy to see this updated version has all-metal levers.

Ergonomics

There’s nothing crazy about the general design of this blade-right sidewinder and ergonomically speaking, it’s a very sound design. The two handles are in line with each other and the secondary handle has enough girth to get a secure grip if your hands are larger or you’re wearing gloves. A simple push with your thumb releases the push-in trigger safety.

As a bare tool, the Masterforce Boost cordless brushless circular saw weighs 7.8 pounds and 8.8 with a 2.5Ah Boost battery pack. We didn’t have a 5.0Ah Boost battery for testing but expect the weight to come up another 1/2-pound or so with the higher capacity.

Overall, Masterforce managed to reduce the weight a little bit compared to the FlexPower model, and it’s still on par with Pro saws that go with the same kind of metal construction.

Blade Changes

Blade changes are pretty standard—just push down the blade lock and use the onboard hex wrench to loosen the arbor bolt. Masterforce adds a modern twist with its flat motor housing. It lets you set the saw on the motor housing so you can change it more conveniently.

Additional Features

• Electric brake
• LED light has a pre-light and afterglow
• Stout rafter hook

Masterforce Boost Cordless Circular Saw Price

The regular price on this saw is $156.95 as a bare tool and, at the moment, there aren’t any kit options available. However, if you’re on the Menards mail-in rebate train, we’ve seen it as low as $139.69.

There’s a 6 1/2-inch version available that also has the Boost upgrade. It runs $119.99 as a bare tool if you’re looking for something lighter and more compact.

Menard’s often runs rebates and sales, so it’s very possible to snag a deal for even less!

The Bottom Line

The Masterforce Boost circular saw quietly sits in a favorable position without much competition as a brushless 7 1/4-inch model in the sub-$200 price range. While it’s not designed to compete with high-dollar premium saws, it has a solid design and feature set to go with performance that’s perfectly capable of handling all of your circular saw cuts.

Check out the entire Masterforce lineup by clicking here.

Masterforce Boost Cordless Circular Saw Specifications

• Model: Masterforce 241-0350
• Power Source: Masterforce Boost 20V
• Maximum Speed: 4,800 RPM
• Blade size: 7-1/4
• Bevel Capacity: 56°
• Maximum Cut Depth at 90°: 2-7/16″
• Maximum Cut Depth at 45°: 1-13/16″
• Arbor Size: 5/8″
• Warranty: 3 years
• Price: $156.95

The post Masterforce Boost 20V Cordless Circular Saw Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi’s 18V Compact Brushless Rotary Hammer Offers Lightweight Drilling Performance

Drilling into concrete can be an arduous task if you don’t have the right tool. Hammer drills are great but sometimes you need more impact energy to work efficiently. Ryobi aims to make the process less daunting with the launch of its 18V One+ HP Brushless Compact 5/8-inch Rotary Hammer.

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless Rotary Hammer Performance

According to the specs, this rotary hammer’s brushless motor delivers up to 1,250 RPM with 6,200 BPM and 1.5 ft-lbs. of impact energy (2.03 Joules). It hits its peak performance with bits right around 3/8 inches, making it a great option for small-diameter jobs. It’s rated to a maximum of 5/8-inch bits if you need to go a bit bigger.

If you do find yourself needing a little more muscle, consider the Ryobi P223 Brushless Rotary Hammer which offers a boost in both capacity and power.

One of the nice things about this compact rotary hammer is its relatively low vibration level compared to a full-size model. This is due, in part, to the built-in vibration-dampening zone in the handle that helps you avoid the dreaded jelly arms and excessive hand fatigue.

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless Rotary Hammer Design Notes

Ergonomics

While it’s not officially the smallest on the market, the Ryobi PSBRH01 is still incredibly compact. It stands 8 inches tall and measures 12 inches from tip to tail. Not to mention, it weighs just 4.25 pounds with a 2.0Ah High-Performance battery.

Considering these stats, you can work overhead and in tight spaces more comfortably.

It’s a great option for HVAC techs, electricians, and folks who regularly work with smaller concrete fasteners.

One big improvement I see on this model over the previous compact rotary hammer is the grip and overmold design. They significantly improved the contour and shape of the handle to give you a superior grip on the tool. Additionally, Ryobi extended the overmold to the front of the motor housing for better grip during horizontal two-handed operation.

Ryobi designed this model for one-hand use and doesn’t provide a side handle with this model. You can overlap your hands or place a second hand in front of the motor housing for additional support if you need it. However, we prefer the ergonomics of a side handle.

Mode Selection

The mode selection on this rotary hammer is pretty straightforward because there are only two options to choose from. Its 2-position dial alternates between hammer drill mode and rotary drilling mode. Ryobi decided to omit a dedicated chipping mode on this model. That’s not really surprising, or disappointing, because compact rotary hammers don’t have the power to be effective chipping tools in most cases.

Additional Features

• LED light
• Reversible belt hook
• Compatible with all Ryobi 18V One+ batteries (High Performance batteries recommended)
• Uses SDS-Plus rotary hammer bits

Ryobi 18V Compact Rotary Hammer Quick Comparison

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless Rotary Hammer Price

At Home Depot, the tool retails for $149 bare or $159 with one 2.0Ah battery and charger. It includes a 3-year limited warranty from Ryobi. $10 to add the battery and charger is a steal, so go that route as long the pricing remains.

The Bottom Line

Ryobi’s 18V compact rotary hammer is a godsend for value-minded Pros or serious DIYers who need a lightweight drill for setting Tapcons or other smaller concrete fasteners. Use it as a supplement to your larger rotary hammer when you’re working overhead or simply want to use a lighter, more compact tool.

Check out Ryobi’s full line of 18V One+ tools by clicking here!

Ryobi 18V Compact Rotary Hammer Specifications

• Model: Ryobi PSBRH01
• Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
• Motor Type: Brushless
• Impact Energy: 1.5 ft-lbs. (2.03 J)
• Impact Rate: 6,200 BPM
• No-Load Speed: 1250 RPM
• Max Bit Rating: 5/8-inch
• Chuck Type: SDS-Plus
• Weight: 3.30 lbs (bare), 4.25 lbs (with 2.0Ah High-Performance battery)
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 12 x 3.25 x 8 in.
• Warranty: 3-year
• Price: $149 (bare), $159 (kit)

The post Ryobi 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless Rotary Hammer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

No Project Is Out Of Reach With The Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun

For quick fixes and small projects around the house, a glue gun is one tool you want to have around. We’re taking a closer look at the Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun to help you decide if it’s worth cutting the cord on such a handy tool.

Using The Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun

Glue guns have so many uses around the house and workshop. Greenworks’ cordless model takes it one step further and gives you the flexibility to move freely without worrying about pesky wires.

Getting started is easy. Start by holding the power butting until the LED light on top of the glue gun glows red. This heat indicator will turn green after about 90 seconds to let you know it has reached its working temperature. That’s pretty fast, even compared to corded models!

There are no surprises when it comes to loading your glue sticks. Simply feed any 1/2-inch glue sticks through the back and use the trigger to advance them through until it reaches the heating chamber.

One thing we really like about this glue gun is the drip-free nozzle. Greenworks’ self-standing design keeps it upright as opposed to corded models that rely on a kickstand that angles the body downward. It’s still a best practice to put down a paper towel to protect sensitive surfaces but so far we have not experienced any unwanted drips.

Greenworks tells us that you can expect about 90 minutes of continuous trigger time with a 2.0Ah battery. For added safety, the glue gun will auto-shutdown after 3-minutes of standby. If you’ve ever had that terrifying “did I unplug the iron?” moment, this is music to your ears!

Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun Design Notes

Compared to the glue guns I’ve used in the past, this is the first one I can describe as comfortable. The grip features a soft rubber overmold and contours nicely to my hand, much Greenworks’ other handheld cordless tools.

Glue guns use pressure from the trigger to manually push the glue stick forward. This model utilizes a 3-finger trigger that spreads the effort out. This is especially really helpful if your hand strength isn’t what it used to be.

Editor’s Note: Hey, I resemble that remark!

Kenny Koehler

While this glue gun only weighs 1.8 pounds with a 2.0Ah battery, it is more bottom-heavy that other glue guns that don’t have to support a battery. However, that’s a tradeoff we’re willing to make for the sake of cordless convenience.

Additional Features

• LED light
• Tether ready

Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun Price

This cordless glue gun is available from Amazon and retails for $69.99 as a kit. It includes one 2.0Ah battery, a compact charger, 10 glue sticks, as well as a 3-year limited warranty on the tool and battery.

The Bottom Line

Glue guns are incredibly valuable in a variety of different applications but you’re often limited by the length of the power cord. The Greenworks 24V cordless glue gun is perfect for serious DIYers and crafting enthusiasts and lets you work wherever, whenever. Plus, the battery is compatible with a wide range of other tools.

Click here to check out what else the Greenworks 24V lineup has to offer!

Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun Specifications

• Model: Greenworks HGG901
• Power Source: Greenworks 24V Battery
• Heating Time: 1.5 minutes
• Runtime: 90 minutes
• Flow Rate: 0.18 oz per minute
• Weight: 0.8 lbs. (bare), 1.8 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Height: 8.5 in.
• Length: 7.25 in.
• Warranty: 3-year limited tool and battery
• Price: $69.99 (kit)

The post Greenworks 24V Cordless Glue Gun Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Delivers Higher Performance In A Smaller Package

If you take a look at the best names in the business, many offer a compact impact driver with lower weight and smaller size to fit in tighter spaces. The trade-off is performance, and you need to jump up to the more expensive flagship models to get the best. Is that always the case? We got our hands on the Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver to see what the product team came up with.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Performance

Speed and Power

The Skil ID6739B features three standard drive modes and a Control Mode, which is an upgrade from the previous model’s 2-mode system. In high, the brushless motor tops out at 3100 RPM—400 RPM higher than the previous PWRCore 20 brushless model. The impact rate is higher as well, jumping from 3400 IPM all the way to 3950 IPM.

The only thing that stays the same is the torque. At 1800 in-lbs, it didn’t really need to increase, though. That’s enough power to drive the majority of fasteners you come across. Considering it’s also enough to break those socket adapters you might be tempted to use, the speed increase was a more important improvement.

It’s still not as fast as some of the top-tier Pro models, but it drives with confidence in an array of deck screws, structural screws, and small-diameter lag screws. Here’s a quick look at some recommendations for each mode:

Using Control Mode

In control mode, the tool runs at low speed at first to help engage the fastener into your material. Once the screw is well engaged, the tool increases the speed automatically to finish the work efficiently. The control mode only functions when the tool is set in forward rotation. If you switch to reverse rotation while in control mode, the impact rate and speed are the same as in Mode 2.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Design Notes

Ergonomics

This compact impact driver weighs in at 2.1 pounds bare and 3.1 pounds with the kitted 2.0Ah battery, which is what we expect from this category. Additionally, it measures 4.9 inches from tip to tail which makes it ideal for working in tight spaces such as a cabinet or crawlspace.

These are both significant improvements as well. The weight is down by nearly 1/2 a pound and the length is 8/10ths of an inch shorter. Holding them side-by-side, it’s an obvious difference.

Ergonomically, this impact driver feels pretty good in the hand. The compact battery doesn’t throw the tool off balance at all and the handle has a nice form-fitting curve to it. Skil also added some larger texturing and grooves to channel away sweat to maintain a secure hold while it’s in use.

LED Light

Much like most modern tools, this impact driver features an LED light for low-light conditions. This tool is equipped with a diffused halo-style light that surrounds the collet and it’s a more effective way of lighting than foot-mounted lights. In addition to the trigger activation, there’s also an option to turn it on for 10 minutes and to turn it back off if you don’t need the light for the full time.

Additional Features

• One-hand collet
• Onboard bit storage
• Reversible belt hook
• Tether ready
• Battery doubles as a USB-A power supply
• Compatible with all Skil PWRCore 20 batteries

Skil 20V Brushless Impact Driver Quick Comparison

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Price

This compact impact driver kit retails for $99.99 and includes a single PWRCore 20V 2.0Ah battery and a single-port charger. Skil gives it a 5-year limited tool warranty and a 2-year limited battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Skil 20V Compact Brushless Impact Driver improves its performance while dropping in size and weight. Combined with a sub-$100 price tag, it’s one of the best values currently available. Add in more control than its predecessor and you have an outstanding impact driver for your weekend projects and home repairs that might also tempt value-minded Pros into pulling the trigger.

Click here to check out Skil’s entire line of power tools!

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Skil ID6739B-10
• Power Source: Skil PWRCore 20V battery
• No-Load Speed: 0-1,800/2,500/3,100 RPM
• Impact Rate: 2,450/3,400,2,950 IPM
• Max Torque: 1,800 in-lbs.
• Torque Settings: 3
• Collet: 1/4 in.
• Weight: 2 lbs. (bare), 3.1 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5-year limited
• Price: $99.99

The post Skil PWRCore 20V Compact Impact Driver Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Clear Snow More Comfortably With EGO’s 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Snow Blower

Way back in 2017, we had the opportunity to review the initial dual-battery EGO 21-inch snow blower. It was good, rating an overall 9.0 on our 10-point scale. However, EGO has continued to develop its battery and motor technology along with how it can apply it to snow blowers.

Editor’s Note: We received an early sample, so the sticker package isn’t on our model. Oh, and we didn’t have any snow in the forecast—just a hurricane. The second one to come through this year, actually. Just pretend that nice green grass and 80° F weather is really snow at 20° F.

EGO 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Snow Blower Performance

Controls and Capacity

The control center and start-up procedure for this snow blower are pretty similar to that of EGO’s cordless mowers. To get started, press and hold the large power button and then pull down on the presence bar to activate the heavy-duty rubber auger.

The auger doubles as the drive to make it a self-propelled machine. Using the lever at the handle’s center, you control the auger’s RPMs, in turn controlling the throw distance and forward speed.

The EGO SNT2125 features a 21-inch wide intake and can comfortably tackle snow up to 13 inches deep in a single pass. EGO tells us that it is capable of throwing that snow as far as 45 feet—not bad for a single-stage system! That’s 10 feet further than the SNT2103 was.

It’s also a Peak Power system. While the machine can operate with just one battery, using two allows it to extend the runtime and use a more efficient power draw. Both ports are active and the electronics take care of switching packs so you don’t have to think about it.

Adjustable Throw

With a simple lever on the right side of the handle, you can direct the throw 200° from the left to right and anywhere in between. This lets you stay at the helm and redirect the snow discharge on the fly with one hand, ultimately saving you time as you switch directions.

You can also adjust the chute’s throw pitch to deal with different conditions (or avoid making your neighbor mad). Like most snow blowers, this adjustment happens at the chute itself rather than at the control deck on the handle.

EGO 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Snow Blower Notes

Creature Comforts

EGO also added a few helpful creature comforts to this snow blower. A pair of bright LED headlights cast about a 5-foot wide beam that can easily illuminate a dark sidewalk or driveway if you’re working in low- or no-light conditions. Turn them on or off with a simple button press on the control deck.

Additionally, there are integrated hand warmers on either side of the grip to keep your hands and fingers nice and toasty while you work. Press the button on the control deck to turn them on.

You can turn both the LED lights and the hand warmers on without engaging the auger.

Additional Features

• Scraper bar behind the auger
• Folding handle for easy storage

EGO 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Snow Blower Price

Look for this EGO 21-Inch snow blower in stores this season. Expect to pay $999 for a kit that includes two 7.5Ah batteries and a charger or $599 for the bare tool if you’re already on the EGO 56V platform. It comes with a 5-year limited tool warranty as well as a 3-year battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

If you’re dreading the process of firing up your gas snow blower after it’s been sitting all summer and fall, the EGO 56V 21-inch electric snow blower is a great candidate to kick those pains to the curb. It’s dramatically quieter and lighter than a traditional gas model, plus, you have instant power at the touch of a button. If you live in an area with noise ordinances or just don’t want to wake your sleeping neighbors, this is the one for you.

Click here to check out EGO’s full lineup.

EGO 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Snow Blower Specifications

• Model: EGO SNT2125AP
• Power Source: Two EGO 56V batteries
• Snow Throw: Up to 45 ft.
• Stage: Single-Stage
• Max Snow Clearing Depth: 10 in.
• Auger Diameter: 8.5 in.
• Intake Height: 13 in.
• Clearing Width: 21 in.
• Paddle Material: Heavy-duty rubber
• Chute Rotation: 200°
• Drive Type: Push with auger assistance
• Weight: 79 lbs.
• Warranty: 5-year limited
• Price: $599 (bare), $999 (kit)

The post EGO 21-Inch Auger-Propelled Single-Stage Snow Blower appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.