Flir C5 Combines Pro Features with Cloud Connectivity

The FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera promises sharper diagnostic data and maintenance time/cost savings. It features a 19,200-pixel imager, Multi-Spectral Dynamic imaging (MSX), and a 5-megapixel visual camera. It lets you easily make notations, upload images to the FLIR Ignite Cloud on WiFi, and quickly create reports. We’ve covered several thermal imagers, from the FLIR One Pro LT to the FLIR TG275. The C5 improves upon the C2 thermal imaging camera and even breaks new ground.

Pros

• Indispensable tool for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing maintenance and inspection
• Touchscreen with 5-megapixel camera makes using and interpreting C5 data very simple
• Shortens inspection times immensely
• Change image contrast to suit your needs
• Reveals potential problems early for better preventative maintenance
• LED Flashlight aids inspection
• Makes notes about images and uploads directly to FLIR Ignite Cloud
• 1 GB free storage on FLIR Ignite Cloud
• Quick and simple sharing and reporting
• Tough rubber case with IP54 rating

• Slight lag in processing speed makes C5 feel a bit sluggish
• Not compatible with Flir Tools App, so images must be downloaded from Flir Ignite Cloud

Use the Flir C5 to Find and Troubleshoot Problems

Over time, buildings don’t tend to improve on their own—quite the opposite! Without visibility of thermal anomalies, maintenance comprises about 90 percent of my time and preventing, unfortunately, the remaining 10 percent. That ratio is costly in time and money. But the FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera is adept at instantly revealing thermal anomalies—and it’s been helping me turn that ratio around at the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes’ campuses.

The FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera is a rugged cell phone-sized powerhouse with an impressive 160 x 120 (19,200 pixels) imager resolution. The FLIR C5 also gives you a 3.5-inch integrated touchscreen that makes it easy to inspect, document repairs, and share your findings with customers.

Building a Heat Map

Once powered on, it measures the temperature range of everything in its purview, identifying what it considers heat signature anomalies. Having reviewed the FLIR C2 thermal imager, the C5 quadruples the resolution at around the same debut price point. It also adds a host of expanded features.

When the FLIR C5 reveals potential thermal issues that you’d like to document, simply capture a photo with the imager. It can even take two complementary photos simultaneously: the thermal image along with a high-quality standard photo. This makes it easy to identify the context of the thermal image. Perhaps most helpful is the ability to include notes attached to the photos you take.

You can make quick manual thermal adjustments using the 1-Touch Level/Span. The C5 also includes FLIR MSX technology (Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging), which uses scene details from the built-in visual camera and overlays them onto the full thermal image.

Scanning for Problems

With just a quick scan of a few rooms, I quickly identified things invisible to the naked eye: an old fuse creating a hot spot, a fan motor generating too much heat, and efficiency loss in several buildings. I snapped some photos and made notes for further investigation. Needless to say, catching small problems is much better than fixing big ones!

I knew I didn’t have to worry about a ceiling water stain because it was old (no thermal difference with the rest of the ceiling). The stain was on a high ceiling and I avoided dragging out a big ladder to inspect it.

If only I’d had the FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera a couple of months earlier when I spent an inordinate amount of time locating a water leak behind a wall!

Cloudy Memory

The C5 offers 1.5GB of memory. Even after taking dozens of thermal images, I had plenty of space left. That amount of storage should work well for everyone except Ansel Adams.

When connected to WiFi or a mobile hotspot, you can sync images to the FLIR Ignite Cloud. FLIR provides another 1GB of free storage for you online. You can then download from the cloud to any desktop or laptop for closer inspection, report preparation, or general record-keeping.

The FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera isn’t compatible with the FLIR Tools App. I wish there was an app-based way to easily access the FLIR Ignite Cloud through a phone app for those times when I don’t have the C5 with me, I’m not around my computer, or I’ve removed the image from the C5 and stored it only in the Cloud.

The Compact and Lightweight C5 Thermal Imager

At 5.4 x 3.3 x 0.94 inches and weighing in at under half a pound, the FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera fits easily into a pocket or bag. It even features an LED flashlight, making it handy to have around even if the job doesn’t specifically call for thermal imaging.

It also features an IP54 enclosure to protect it from dust and water. Lastly, FLIR designed it to withstand drops from up to 6.6 ft.

Constructive Feedback

For all its impressive and incredibly helpful uses, I think the $699 FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera should have a faster processing speed. There’s an ever-so-slight lag in the action and this iPhone user just wants it to be a little snappier!

I also noticed that if you leave it off for a couple of days, it takes a while to recalibrate. The first couple of times this happens, it’s long enough for you to worry that something’s wrong with the C5. Eventually, you realize you simply have to wait for it to boot up.

The Bottom Line

The FLIR C5 Thermal Camera is truly a must-have piece of preventative maintenance equipment for finding small issues before they become big problems and moving quickly from diagnosis to repair. I’m spoiled by my iPhone’s speed so I wish the C5 processing was a bit faster, but the maintenance time and money it saves me outweighs that small gripe by far.

Pricing

You can pick up the Flir C5 Compact Thermal Camera for around $675 online. It includes Flir’s 2-10 Limited Warranty, which basically gives you two separate warranty periods for the components and the camera sensors.

For a full explanation of the Flir warranty program, click here.

Flir Compact Thermal Camera Specs

• Model: Flir C5
• Accuracy: At ambient temp. 15 to 35°C (59 to 95°F) and object temp. above 0°C (32°F), 0 to 100°C (32 to 212°F): ±3°C (±5.5°F), 100 to 400°C (212 to 752°F): ±3%
• Object Temperature Range: -20 to 400°C (-4 to 752°F)
• Operating Temperature Range: -10 to 50°C (14 to 122°F)
• IR Sensor: 160 x 120 (19,200 pixels)
• Touchscreen: Capacitive touch
• Screen Rotation: Yes
• Image Upload: Directly upload images to Flir Ignite cloud library and services
• Drop Test: 2 m (6.6 ft)
• IP Rating: IP54
• Camera Size: 138 x 84 x 24 mm (5.4 x 3.3 x 0.94 in)
• File Format: Standard JPEG, 14-bit measurement data included
• Image Storage: >5000 images
• Warranty: 2-10 Limited Warranty
• Price: ~$675

For more information about the Flir C5 Compact Thermal Camera, including a full spec sheet, click here.

The post FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Camera Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Klein Tools has offered cross-line laser levels for several years, but the Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level with Red Plumb Spot is the company’s first with a green diode. Green lasers are nearly four times brighter than their red counterpart. Unfortunately, this also made them, until now at least, much more expensive. Klein’s done a remarkable job of including all the bells and whistles in a green laser level for under $200. We used it on a variety of layout projects and managed to hit most of the key features of this tool in the process!

Pros

• Green laser is much easier to see than red—even in ambient light
• Pendulum self-levels 4° and locks (manually) when not in use
• Red plumb spot significantly expands laser’s usefulness
• Several mounting options: tripod (1/4- and 5/8-inch), magnetic mount, keyhole, and clamp-on adapter
• Runs on 3AA batteries
• IP54 Rating
• Excellent accuracy: 3/32-inch at 33 feet
• Great price for green diode

• No significant downsides

Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level Overview

The Laser Level runs on 3AA batteries which is to be expected at its really-great-for-a-green-diode price of $199. You might even prefer that as you don’t have to wait for batteries to charge. Just keep some extra AAs handy. The Klein 93LCLG includes a low-battery indicator, amking it easy to see when you need to pop in three new AAs.

I love the Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level’s easy controls. You only have three buttons: horizontal, vertical, and plumb spot. All laser functions work independently or in tandem.

The lasers’ brightness will make users of red diodes green with envy. Green lasers make it easier to work in spaces with more ambient light. They also help you work in (shadier) outdoor applications.

Within 4°, the pendulum self-levels so you won’t be stuck making those low-tech fine bubble adjustments. That’s not to cast aspersions on the low-tech way – but the Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level just makes it so easy. Be sure to lock the pendulum when your work is done – this will keep it calibrated.

Various Mounting Options

I rarely encounter a project that doesn’t include something that needs to be level, plumb, or square. Maybe mowing. Otherwise, there are cabinets, counter tops, trim, and all other manner of things that must be true. The Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level gives you some excellent mounting options. These greatly assist for all kinds of projects and they free up your hands so you can get to work more quickly.

Swiveling Magnetic Bracket

The Laser Level’s swiveling bracket, integrated on the unit, is the first mounting option. It has strong rare earth magnets so find the nearest magnetic surface and you’re off and running. Our campus offices feature metal door frames. We used that to our advantage as we hung photos in our large conference room.

That swiveling bracket has a keyhole for mounting on a nail or screw, but you have to be pretty precise with the placement. It’s a better better bet to use the keyhole on the mounting clamp. The clamp is designed for leveling drop ceilings, but it also has a metal strip. By using its keyhole, you can stick the Laser Level’s rate earth magnets anywhere along the clamp’s metal strip, giving you a lot more leeway.

Give It a Tripod

The third mounting option uses a tripod and either the 1/4- or 5/8-inch threads. A tripod is useful when the magnet, clamp, or keyhole options aren’t ideal but it really allows the red plumb spot function to shine.

Suppose you have to hang a light fixture, fan, or projector from the ceiling (as I’ve done countless times). Measuring along the ceiling is awkward or impossible—and using a plumb bob is a bit arduous. But the Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level instantly transfers a spot on the floor to the ceiling and holds in there. Locating fixtures just got a whole lot easier!

I consider myself quite fortunate that my wife also works at FBCH. It just so happened that she needed some artwork placed on her office wall (her artistry by the way, if I can brag on her for a moment!). It was the perfect job for the Klein. And it earned me some husband points!

Price

The Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level comes in at a very reasonable $199.

It’s not unusual to see some of the competition much more expensive than that, although green diodes have come down quite a bit…

The Bottom Line

Klein Tools’ first crack at a green cross-line laser level with red plumb spot does pretty well. It includes plenty of mounting options and a high degree of accuracy. We loved the easy-to-use functions and the fact that Klein included a nice, strong case. Finally, it delivers all that for under $200.

With a 3/32″ accuracy at 33 feet, this makes for a pretty accurate laser. In fact, we like to see 1/8-inch accuracy at a minimum—this exceeds that. While the plumb lasers aren’t green—they really don’t need to be. In the end, Klein made some excellent design decisions on this tool. Pro tradesmen of all kinds should be able to find a way for this laser level to improve their efficiency almost every day.

Klein Tools Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level Specifications

• Model: Klein 93LCLG
• Power: 3 x AA
• Laser: 515-530 nm (cross-lines), 630-680 nm (plum spots)
• Laser safety: ≤1mW each beam, Class 2 laser product
• Beams: Horizontal, vertical, plumb up, plumb down
• Plumb laser
• Outdoor range: 65 ft.
• Max distance: 70 ft.
• Accuracy: ±3/32” per 33′ (±2 mm per 10 m) vertical and horizontal beams, ±1/8” per 33′ (±3 mm per 10 m) plumb spot
• Drop protection: 3.3 ft. (2m)
• IP rating: IP54
• Transit locking mechanism
• Low battery indicator
• Standard: EN61326-1, EN60825-1, 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11
• Dimensions (LxHxW): 5.3 x 5.0 x 2.6 in.
• Weight: 1.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 years
• Price: $199.99

The post Klein Tools 93LCLG Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser with Plumb Spot appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw (model 2982-20) is the meanest, most beastly cordless tool of its kind. But it’s also smoother, quieter, cleaner, and cooler-cutting than just about any alternative. Sure, it’s not appropriate for every application but it’s so good that you’ll wish it was. It’s been the right tool for several tasks around FBCH’s multiple campuses – here’s how I used it.

Pros

• Impressively powerful – as powerful as a corded saw
• High output XC battery runs cool even under heavy use
• Effective chip collection keeps work area cleaner
• Cold cuts to get on with your work faster
• Overload light
• Tool body line of blade cover easily guides cut
• Fast-acting blade brake

Cons

• Caveat, not a con: it’s heavy at a skosh over 12 pounds

Milwaukee 8″ Metal Cutting Saw First Impressions

I’ve cut metal with just about every tool except one like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw. Grinder: loud, hot, flying debris. Torch: open flame, hot. Snips, nibblers, etc: slow and limited. Recip saw: loud, hot, debris. Handheld bandsaw: a great tool but limited, too.

Of course, all of these tools have strengths depending on the application. And the Milwaukee can’t handle every job. However, when it’s appropriate for the task at hand, it is like no other tool. It’s remarkably powerful (as I demonstrate later), leaves a cool cut, is fairly quiet relative to other tools, and collects the vast majority of debris.

My first opportunity to use the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8-inch metal cutting circular saw was a water fountain installation. The fountain’s plug prevented its stainless steel body from sitting flush against the wall. I found the Milwaukee was well-suited to the task as I made plunge cuts by depressing the guard lever. It sliced the stainless like it wasn’t even there—a theme I’ll return to in this review!

Milwaukee 2982-20 Cuts Like a Circular Saw

It’s no surprise the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw has the same feel of a circular saw since it has a similar form factor. This tool is just bigger and heavier—a bit over 12 pounds—but it needs that heft to accomplish its work. If you’ve been eating your Wheaties, you can get it done with one hand, but plan to use two.

The blade cover’s tool body, which houses the excellent chip collection system, is designed with a raised line that corresponds precisely with the blade. That line makes it easy to follow your cut line. Milwaukee doesn’t highlight this helpful feature, but it appears intentional. There’s also an effective blade brake which brings the saw to a halt very quickly and an overload light that indicates when to ease up on the pressure.

Among the other tasks the Milwaukee cordless metal cutting saw helped me accomplish on multiple FBCH campuses: remove a galvanized pipe sticking out of the ground and cutting metal door thresholds to spec. Again—the saw cuts like the material isn’t even there!

Cutting Steel U-Beams

I decided to put the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw to the ultimate test—cutting hardened steel U-beam I had in the shop. I knew if it can cut that, it could cut anything I have. Without breaking a sweat, the saw cut through the U-beam with impressive speed and ease.

The cool cut really capped off a stellar performance. The cut wasn’t the only thing that stayed cool—the High Output XC8.0 battery didn’t warm up in the slightest. And there’s hardly any debris left behind on the material or the ground so clean up is minimal. Just remember to empty the collection compartment often!

With the kitted 8.0 Ah battery, the M18 cordless metal circular saw cuts through 120 ft of corrugated decking on a single charge. Plus, should you run through the battery over the course of the day, the kitted rapid charger gets you back to a full charge in around an hour.

Side By Side Comparisons

As a point of comparison, we looked at the corded Milwaukee 6370 8″ Metal Cutting Saw which we reviewed several years ago. It has a 15A motor and 2-9/16 in. depth of cut. The blade speed tops out around 3700 RPM. The new 8-inch saw—by our recollection—demonstrated similar performance to this corded model. Milwaukee states a 30% speed increase over corded. While improvements to the blade help, the power of the brushless motor to maintain cutting speed under load certainly contributed as well.

The Skilsaw Outlaw Metal Cutting Saw also makes for a good comparison. This 8-inch 15A saw uses a worm drive system with a blade speed of 3900 RPM. Seeing this type of cutting tool in a cordless form factor should grab the attention of metal fabricators everywhere.

We do love that Milwaukee kept the same excellent plunge lever that you can reach with your thumb. We wish all plunge saws worked this easily.

Milwaukee 2982-20 Cordless Metal Cutting Saw Pricing

The Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 Fuel 8″ metal cutting circular saw is really in a league of its own given its size and performance. The bare tool is $399 (2982-20) and you can pick up the kit with XC8.0 Ah battery and charger for $549 (2982-21).

The Bottom Line

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw is one mean machine: tons of power for the toughest materials, an advanced battery, excellent chip collection, and cool cuts. It large and a bit heavy, but that’s what the work calls for. It’s a remarkably great tool I find easy to recommend. It should quickly pay for itself in time saved during both cutting and cleanup.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw Specifications

• Models: 2982-20 (Bare), 2982-21 (Kit)
• Brushless motor
• RedLink Plus electronics
• Cut capacity: 2-9/16 in.
• Onboard chip collection
• Overload indicator light
• Dual-action trigger
• Electric blade brake
• Adjustable depth
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 15.5 x 10.6 x 10.1 in.
• Weight: 12.1 lbs.
• Warranty: 5-year limited
• Prices: 2982-20 (bare): $399 | 2982-21 (kit): $549

The post Milwaukee M18 Fuel 8″ Cordless Metal Cutting Saw Review | 2982-20 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester is a diagnostic and safety tool that’s indispensable to service electricians, home inspectors, and maintenance Pros. What makes it unique? It not only detects wiring faults, but it also simulates arc and ground fault conditions with patent-pending technology. Get charged up to learn all about it below.

Pros

• Detects wiring faults
• Simulates AFCI and GFCI faults
• Uses patent-pending technology to detect simultaneous open neutral and open ground fault
• Actively shows both energized and de-energized conditions
• Tough construction
• Auto-shutoff after two minutes

Cons

• Case is available but sold separately

How Do You Test for Arc Fault and GFCI Ground Faults?

After I’ve reviewed a tool for a couple of weeks, it’s fun to jump online and read what other people have said about it. Have other users generally had an experience like mine? How did they use it? What do they think could be improved? In the case of Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester, I discovered that many users didn’t realize the tool’s unique ability to simulate ground and arc faults. It seemed like most used it as a sophisticated outlet tester without knowing its full capability.

This capability is a bigger deal than Klein makes about it on the RT310 product page. A quick bit of Internet research reveals that in the US alone, arc faults result in 40,000 fires and more than 350 deaths annually. The problem poses so much of a risk that AFCI breakers became a standard part of the NEC in 1999. Those rules expanded further in 2008 and 2014.

Usually, no one likes an interrupter, but that doesn’t apply to arc faults! The Klein AFCI/GFCI outlet tester provides a quick and easy way to add a layer of safety and service to your work.

What is an Arc Fault Circuit Breaker? Latest NEC Updates Explained

Checking for Energized Circuits

I really like how the RT 310 is designed to give you active information about a circuit. Two different indicator lights are used to show you the circuit’s energy status. One illuminates for energized and one for not energized. The unit doesn’t make me take for granted that it’s working properly if the energized light isn’t illuminated. This could be a dangerous assumption. The RT310 also includes a battery indicator light.

How Does the Klein RT310 Simulate a GFCI or Arc Fault?

So how does the RT310 accomplish its simulations? Good question! It uses patent-pending technology that’s beyond the scope of this review. But you simply plug the standard 120V, 3-pin plug into an outlet on the AFCI circuit (which are increasingly common, especially since a 2014 NEC update). Pressing the Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester’s AFCI button simulates an arc, tripping the breaker.

If the AFCI breaker trips as its designed to do, the energized light switches off and the not energized light switches on. Likewise, the Correct Wiring light darkens and the Open Hot light illuminates. You’ll also notice the RT310 gets warm during the simulation. This has to do with the internal wiring needed to simulate the arc fault—very different from a simple GFCI ground fault test. An indicator light alerts you if the unit needs to cool off before the next simulation.

You simulate a GFCI fault in the same manner by pressing its corresponding button.

Additional Indicators

The fault simulations alone should make you consider buying the Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI outlet tester. But it also detects dual-open wiring faults with simultaneous open neutral and open ground wires, hot/neutral reversed wiring, and hot/ground reversed wiring.

Go Ahead…Drop It

It’s built with a heavy-duty cord and tough housing that can withstand a 6.6-foot drop. I also really like the 2-minute auto-off that conserves the three AAA batteries that power it. You can use your Klein pocket screwdriver to access the batteries via a small Phillips screw.

If I have one tiny gripe, it’s that Klein offers a case for the RT310—but it’s sold separately. This seems a little silly, although I know Klein probably considered that it could offer the unit at a lower price and most guys would just keep it in a protective pouch/bag they already have.

How Much Does the Klein RT310 Cost?

The Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester comes in at $47.60. There’s really no comparison for a tool that has unique features. But consider that a normal outlet tester will run about $10. For the RT310’s extra ~$30, you can exponentially increase the safety and service you provide to your customers. It seems like an easy decision.

The Bottom Line

The Klein Tools AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester is a valuable diagnostic tool that reveals common wiring faults and even simulates the most dangerous kind – ground and arc – so you can prevent them. It’s hard to overstate the importance of such capability. With a reasonable price, picking up the RT310 seems like an easy decision for Service Electricians, Home Inspectors, and Maintenance Pros.

Klein AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester Specifications

• Item Number: RT310
• Material: PC/ABS Housing with Electronic Components
• Drop Protection: 6.6 feet
• Voltage: 120V AC in 3-Wire Grounded Electrical Outlet
• Batteries: 3 x AAA (Included)
• Standard: CATIII 135V
• Length: 7.4 inches
• Height: 1.3 inches
• Width: 2.3 inches
• Weight: 8.5 ounces
• Price: $47.60

Shop Amazon

The post Klein AFCI/GFCI Outlet Tester and Fault Simulator Model RT310 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The rechargeable Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint is chock-full of functionality. Give yourself some time to learn your way around it, and it will reward you with usefulness exceeding that of a traditional bubble level. Here’s how it works.

Pros

• Heavy-duty construction with IP65 rating and a 3-year accuracy guarantee
• Pre-programmed common slopes and memory for custom slopes in Pin Mode
• Rechargeable 5V RedLithium battery
• Optional leveling tones guide you to the desired measurement
• Measures in percentage, degrees, inches per foot, and millimeters per meter
• Excellent carrying case

Cons

• Traditional bubbles would be helpful for quick measurements and wouldn’t require waiting for boot-up
• A small display on the back of level would be helpful
• Volume control would be great

Performance

Level With Me

Before I began this Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level review I thought, if nothing else, Milwaukee sure nailed the look of this tool. It’s beautiful—really a work of heavy-duty art. And you look like a boss when you bring it to the job!

That’s great, of course, but I had to find out if the level made a compelling practical case for itself. The USB-rechargeable 5V RedLithium battery had enough juice out of the box to get right to work. The level’s circular main display boots up just like a computer (because it is one!), taking about 6-7 seconds (more on that in a moment.)

Then, you easily navigate through the level’s functions and options with the triple dot menu button and scroll through submenus with the up and down arrows. It’s here you select settings and measurements in angles, percentages, inches per foot, and so on. The display’s color graphics are particularly impressive. There’s a high-contrast mode that makes the display easy to see even in bright sunlight but be advised: polarized eyewear will counteract this to some extent.

Ask For Directions

The menu navigation is intuitive but you’ll do yourself a favor to keep the quick start guide at hand for the first couple of days. The basic functions are easy to find but you’ll limit all the Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint can do for you by fumbling around on the job without the instructions.

There are countless applications for this level. You’ll see me measuring the slope of a fence on one side of a building so I can mirror the slope for the fence that will go on the opposite side. Using the Pin Mode, I measure the angle and pin it so I can transfer it to another place. This angle registration and transfer are immensely helpful. You can store two custom angles in Pin Mode.

Now let’s say you’re tasked with constructing something that uses common angles. Navigate to the three pre-programmed angles of 22.5°, 30°, or 45° and get to work. There’s also a wonderful inches-per-foot measurement that helps me make critical slopes for ADA compliance. It’s also handy for general flooring and concrete pads. An option for millimeters-per-meter is also available but will get less use unless we receive building plans in metric terms.

The Sound and the Tolerance

The Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level offers high-tech assistance for level and plumb, too. Animations on the main display and (optional) audible cues guide you to very precise measurements.

Within 3° of the target angle, animations move around the display clockwise or counterclockwise depending on which direction the level must move to achieve it. This also works for the pre-programmed and custom angles.

Audible cues are especially helpful for hanging cabinets or shimming countertops when you don’t have a helper. If you can’t see the level’s display, you can listen as the level beeps at a slow pace within 10° of your target and a faster pace within 5°. But there’s a caveat with the sound as it relates to the tolerance you select: if the tolerance is too tight, you’ll likely get too annoyed with the sound to keep it on. You can navigate to the sound preference in the menu or simply double-tap the power button to turn it on and off—a nice touch! In any event, the millisecond that the target measurement is achieved, the level beeps. That’s important because Gene Lane found the (otherwise) excellent Johnson Digital Level to have the slightest delay that made it easy to go past the target.

I just wish there was a volume control—the sound can be hard to hear on a noisy job site! And I would love if the level featured a rule so I don’t have to bust out a tape measure.

View from the Top

The Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level’s top view window displays the measurement as well as a digital bubble. It’s great to have the ability to see the measurement from above. It would be even more helpful to have a third display on the backside of the level. After all, a traditional level lets you read it from both sides. There would be no contorting yourself in a tight spot if you couldn’t see the main display or top view.  This could be also remedied if this level had traditional plumb and level vials (like the digital Johnson level mentioned above).

That might sound unreasonable, but I like this level so much I want it to be my one-to-rule-them-all level. To truly do that, I want to have every possible vantage point. Or what if I forget to charge it? When I mentioned the 6-7 second boot-up time, I also had traditional vials in mind. If I want to take a quick measurement, it’s not convenient to wait.

The level goes to sleep after three minutes of inactivity but can be awoken with movement or the press of any button. But after ten minutes, it shuts off and has to be re-booted. Additionally, if it’s tilted or not upright, it will shut off, requiring a reboot.

Price

Digital levels are a relatively new tool category. Here’s a look at a sample of the 48-inch field:

• Empire e105.48: $129
• Johnson 5700-4800D: $232.81
• Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint MLDIG48: $259
• Stabila 36548: $290.00

The Bottom Line

The Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint helps you get jobs done more quickly, easily, and precisely – and it has a bad-to-the-bone look while doing it. The beautiful main display’s animation and audible cues guide you to your desired measurements in percentages, angles, inches-per-foot, or millimeters-per-meter. Use the top view window’s readout and digital bubble when the main display is obscured. Select among three pre-programmed angles or use Pin Mode to save up to two custom angles to register and transfer. But to truly be my all-in-one level, I’d love to see the addition of traditional level and plumb vials and a rule. Even so, there’s little doubt the precision and efficiency of your work will benefit from this Redstick!

Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint Specifications

• Item Number: MLDIG48
• Width: 1.4 inches
• Height: 2.75 inches
• 3-Year Accuracy Guarantee
• Price: $279

The post Milwaukee RedStick Digital Level with PinPoint Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Makita 18V Compact Band Saw is an indispensable tool for cutting a variety of all-thread and metal conduit, pipe, and channel, up to 2-1/2 inches in diameter. It makes overhead work easy and works more safely and smoothly than a recip saw in many instances. Here are more details about how I used the Makita XBP03 band saw and how it performed.

Pros

• Makes super smooth, straight cuts
• Easy, lightweight one-handed operation
• Wide tool hook hangs from a ladder rung or tool belt
• Lock-off for safety
• Quick blade installation, tensioning and tracking
• Adjustable material stopper plate for more control

Cons

• No significant downsides

Makita 18V Compact Band Saw Performance

Like Buttah

Our organization, Florida Baptist Children’s Home (FBCH) exists on generous donations. Many of them are in-kind donations like furniture, exercise equipment, file cabinets, playground equipment—you name it. Unfortunately, many times these items aren’t in working order. In those cases, we’ll store them until there’s enough to make a run to the dump or, hopefully, to the recycling facility where we can recoup some money for the organization.

I recently tested out the Makita XBP03 band saw while cutting up scrap metal for the recycling facility. The saw runs through material like butter. Before, we used to be able to say “it didn’t feel at all like a cordless tool”. Nowadays, cordless tools are so powerful, my concerns have drifted more to how it feels and how long it can run on the battery.

The Makita XBP03T runs small and is light enough to operate with one hand—its chief advantage. A one-handed recip saw really makes this kind of work go much more quickly. Two-handed operation of the tool also felt comfortable for larger cuts.

But there’s more: the band saw’s smooth and fast cuts and leave few metal shavings behind. That’s superior to even thin-kerf reciprocating saw blades. Also, reciprocating saws can bind if the shoe isn’t pushed up against the cutting surface properly. The teeth on those blades also remove more material than the Makita cordless compact band saw.

Band Saw Pipe Dreams

My team and I maintain the campus’ buildings and cottages where FBCH’s children and families live. There’s no shortage of plumbing and conduit work. In most cases, the Makita 18V compact band saw is the right tool for the job. It slices through PVC without breaking a sweat and also makes quick work of both copper and galvanized steel.

These applications show where the Makita’s one-handed, overhead operation really shines. It takes very little strength at all to position the band saw for the cut. Once it rests on the material, I found it easy to control the tool and the cut.

Although the Makita bandsaw completed everything I’d asked of it during the review, I didn’t think I’d pushed its limits at all (that’s a good thing.) As a result, I decided to put it to the test with whatever scrap material I had laying around the shop. Wood? No problem, of course. 3/8- and 1/2-inch threaded rod? Sliced right through. Perhaps the most impressive cut was through an old lawnmower blade. We got the same fast, smooth cut as every other one.

Cuts Like A Knife

There are two caveats about the Makita 18V Compact Band Saw that you must weigh. First is the small cutting capacity. It’s the tradeoff that comes with any compact band saw with the capability for one-handed operation. It’s possible to throttle around material that’s a bit larger but, for most purposes, you have a 2-1/2-inch constraint. This didn’t hold my work back, but it might prevent some of your tasks.

Second is the price of replacement blades. You’ll shell out $49 for a 5-pack of Makita’s 18TPI version. Other brands provide slightly less expensive options. You get a lot of work done on a blade, and I’d encourage you to experiment with what brands last for your particular needs. Also note that you can find 8/11, 14/18, 18, and higher teeth counts to match your work.

Blade installation is simple. Remove the back panel, loosen the tension rod, put the saw blade in, tighten the tension rod, and replace the back panel. It takes only a couple moments and you can get right back to work. An exterior blade adjustment makes tracking easy as well.

For finishing touches, the Makita 18V Compact Band Saw boasts an excellent hook that hangs on a ladder’s rung. There’s a material stopper plate for support and accuracy, a work light, and a lock-off for safety.

Makita Cordless Bandsaw Price Comparison

The Makita 18V Compact Band Saw will set you back $249. Here’s a look at the field:

• Bosch BSH180 – $149.00 bare – 2-1/2 inch cut capacity, around 8.75 pounds with battery
• DeWalt DCS370B – $574.20 bare – 2-1/2 inch cut capacity, around 9 pounds with battery
• Milwaukee 2629 – $259.95 bare –  3-1/4 cut capacity, 10.25 pounds with battery
• Makita 18V Compact Band Saw – $234.39 bare – 2-1/2-inch cut capacity, 9 pounds with battery ($343.18 for kit)
• Metabo HPT CB18DBLP4 – $259.99 bare – 3-1/4-inch cut capacity, 8.8 pounds with battery

Makita XBP03T Band Saw Bottom Line

This Makita XBP03T band saw gives you fast, smooth, safe cuts. It’s light enough for one-handed operation, making overhead work easy. Blade installation/replacement is quick and the feature set makes your work efficient. The tradeoff to the compactness is the 2-1/2-inch cutting capacity, but I’d bet that’s enough for the majority of cuts you’ll need to make. Makita did everything right with this band saw and I’m more productive for it.

Makita 18V Compact Band Saw Specifications

• Model numbers: XBP03Z (bare tool); XBP03T (kit)
• Cutting capacity (round workpiece): 2-1/2 in.
• Cutting capacity (rectangular workpiece) : 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 in.
• Speed (no load): 630 fpm
• Blade length: 32-7/8 in.
• Overall length: 18-3/4 in.
• Weight (w/battery): 9 lbs.
• Built-in light
• Price (XBP03Z bare tool): $234.99
• Price (XBP03T kit): $343.18

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