The updated Kobalt Portable Table Saw KT10152 changes only a few things from the budget-friendly KT1015 job site table saw we reviewed a few years ago. Kobalt removed the outfeed support but increased the left rip capacity by 3-inches. They also adjusted the sliding rip fence so it now locks into place with a single latch for fast setting.

Check out our best portable jobsite table saws article for even more great recommendations

Pros

• Affordable price
• Powerful 15-amp motor
• Included stand and low weight make it easily maneuverable
• Sliding fence system is more than you’d expect from a budget table saw
• Cuts 2x, HardiePlank, and even Durock with ease

Cons

• Saw’s weight, footprint, and smaller table surface make it difficult to accurately cut sheet goods
• Curved legs extend well beyond the end of the table creating a trip hazard

What’s the Difference Between the Kobalt KT10152 and KT1015?

Except for its color scheme, you’d be hard-pressed to quickly pinpoint the differences between this Kobalt Portable Table Saw (model KT10152) and its predecessor, the KT1015 we compared in our jobsite table saw head-to-head. However, if you moved both around, you’d find the new model to be much more nimble. At just 65 pounds, it drops 13 pounds from the KT1015. That’s a big advantage for portability but also a disadvantage for certain applications. We’ll talk about in a moment.

The right rip capacity is the same at 30 inches but the left is up to 17 inches from 14. Perhaps the most helpful change, though, is a redesign of the sliding fence from a double latch to a single latch. Kobalt Tools also added yellow pins on the slide that register the fence square.

A common gripe about the KT1015 was its tough-to-square fence. It had two independent locks, but you could just as easily lock it out of square. A good fence will properly align itself from the front. Our crew found the fence easy to square and—more importantly—it stayed square. The sliding mechanism actually feels like it belongs on a more expensive saw—it’s very smooth!

The Kobalt portable table saw’s carbide-tipped blade and 15-amp motor easily cut through everything we had. We ripped plenty of 2x material and even cement board. No problems there. And the impressive stock blade is still in good shape after all our work.

Some Difficulty Cutting Sheet Goods

It’ll be no surprise that cutting sheet goods on the Kobalt KT10152 portable table saw (or any jobsite saw) isn’t ideal. Smaller saws tend to lend themselves to being top-heavy. The lower weight on this table saw actually works as a disadvantage in this case. Sheet goods make it a bit too wobbly unless you’ve got some capable help or outfeed support.

The fold-and-roll stand, which we discuss below, is wider than the saw perpendicular to the blade but not parallel to it. As you push sheet goods through the blade, the stand doesn’t supply enough stability where you need it the most.

Some Pros will opt to use track saws for this application, however, the budget-friendly KT10152 comes in at nearly half the price.

Kobalt KT10152 Table Saw Stand

The lightweight Kobalt portable table saw works hand-in-hand with the included fold-and-roll stand to make it very maneuverable. We did, however, notice a bit of an issue once we set up the saw. Given what we just said about the width of the legs, it might seem contradictory to gripe about the curved leg sticking too far out. But because it curves upward and further out into the workspace, it becomes quite a trip hazard and shin buster (we’re speaking from experience!).

It’s not a deal-breaker but you should be wary of it when locating the saw in your workspace.

Price

We’ve seen recent deals on the Kobalt portable table saw that really make it a bargain. The regular price for the KT10152 sits at $329. Here’s a look at some budget-friendly competitors:

• Skil 3410-02 10-in. table saw (has as fixed stand): $204.33
• Ryobi RTS23: $269
• DeWalt DW745S compact job site table saw (fixed stand): $302.32
• Kobalt KT10152: $329
• Skil SPT70WT-01 10-in. portable worm drive table saw: $343.37

The Bottom Line

Kobalt has made some nice improvements to this table saw. You get a big weight reduction for more portability. The fence clamping system now exhibits a much more confident mechanism. Plus, you get a bit more rip capacity.

The saw also has plenty of power and it’s hard to beat the maneuverability. The narrow base and light weight make it a little wobbly with larger stock or sheet goods. We like the fold-and-roll stand overall, but watch that the curved leg doesn’t obstruct a pathway. For the price and performance, this budget-friendly saw should appeal to both DIYers and entry-level Pros.

Kobalt Portable Table Saw Specifications

• Model: KT10152
• Motor: 15-amps
• Speed (no load): 5000 RPM
• Micro-adjust rip fence
• Bevel capacity: 45º
• Cut depth (45º / 90º): 2.5 in. / 3.5 in.
• Dust chute: 2.5 in.
• Blade Size (Inches): 10
• Rip capacity (Left/Right): 17 in. / 30 in.
• Table (WxL): 19.6 x 26.1 in.
• Height (to table): 34 in.
• Locking miter gauge
• Quick-folding stand with 8-in. wheels
• On-board storage for rip fence, miter gauge, blade guard, push stick, power cord, and extra blades
• Weight: 65 lbs.
• Warranty: 3-year limited
• Price: $329

The post KOBALT KT10152 PORTABLE TABLE SAW REVIEW appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer is the former, reliable-as-the-day-is-long Hitachi NV90AG(S) with a redesigned head guard. It’s technically a new tool but we’ve actually been using the Hitachi-branded model for years. We’ve been framing up a storm on a recent house remodel: new floor joists, walls, sheathing—you name it. It gave us the perfect opportunity to review the rebranded Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) coil framing nailer.

Pros

• Reliable Hitachi NV90AG(S) pedigree
• A lean 7.7 pounds
• Holds up to 300 nails in side-load, tilt-bottom magazine for fewer reloads
• Redesigned head guard for faster tool maintenance disassembly
• Fast recoil
• More compact than a stick nailer so it fits in tighter spaces
• Comfortable rubber grip

Cons

• In our experience, the NV90AG(S) firing pin hasn’t held up too long with case-hardened nails

Performance

Frame of Mind

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? That’s the tack taken with the new Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer. All indications are that it was a good strategy because this is still an excellent framer. We tried to poke holes in it as we worked on a complete remodel and we couldn’t really do it.

First, the aluminum body is super light. The tool weighs just 7.7 pounds before you load the magazine. That’s light enough to use accurately with your non-dominant hand if you’re in an awkward framing position. That happens more often than you might think.

Our crew has always generally preferred coil nailers to stick nailers (you’ll see we have a couple of older generations of this very nailer in the photos). The Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer demonstrates all the reasons why. First, it holds a lot more nails—up to 300 in its side-load, tilt-bottom magazine. Fewer reloads save time. Second, the design is more compact, letting the tool fit into tighter spaces.

According to Coil

The good stuff doesn’t end there. The NV90AG(S) has a fast recoil so you can keep a quick pace. That’s especially helpful in bump fire mode (easily toggled on and off with a switch). We never could outrun it while we had it in bump-fire. Speaking of outrunning the nailer, it lacks a dry-fire lockout feature. That means when it runs out, the air mechanism will continue firing “blanks”. Seasoned framers will recognize the change in pitch, but we do like this feature and expect it on newer nailers.

We like the ridged and bumpy rubber grip. It’s comfortable and solid. I know, it sounds like an obligatory the grip is comfortable comment. But really, several of us noticed that it was a really good grip.

The Hook Brings You Back

We’ve used the Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer’s Hitachi predecessors with case-hardened nails from time-to-time for furring. In this application, we found the firing pins wear out pretty quickly. We didn’t get to use it in this manner enough to judge this nailer’s pin—but just keep it in mind. On the upside, easy tool access allows for easier maintenance. That means installing a replacement or stronger firing pin won’t be a problem.

All told, the NV90AG(S) is about as good as it gets—but we’d love a rafter hook, man! We’ve even gone so far as to fashion our own on previous Hitachi NV90AG(S) coil framers.

Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) Coil Framing Nailer Price

Here are few 3-1/2-inch coil framers for price comparison.

• Metabo HPT NV90AG(S): $239.00
• Stanley Bostitch N89C-1: $259.99
• Everwin FCN90: $295
• Senco SCN65: $443.26
• Makita AN902: $504.75

The Bottom Line

With reliable performance, a comfortable feel, and a price better than nearly all of its best competitors, the Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer still sets the standard on our job sites. It remains to be seen if the firing pin can handle case-hardened nails for furring strips. We’d also love to see a rafter hook and dry-fire lockout feature. Even so, the new and improved Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) coil framer is our starter on each job.

Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer Specifications

• Model: NV90AG(S)
• Fastener type: Wire Coil
• Magazine angle (+/- 1º): 16 degree
• Fastener length: 1-3/4–3-1/2 in.
• Fastener diameter: .099 – .131 in.
• Magazine capacity (.131): 200-300 nails
• Side magazine loading
• Operating pressure 70-120 PSI
• Air consumption @ 100 PSI .09 scfm
• Tool-less depth adjustment
• Actuation Selective
• Jam Clearing Open Nose
• Rubber Grip
• Dimensions: 13-1/4 x 5-15/16 x 13-1/16 in.
• Weight 7.7 lbs
• Warranty 5-year
• Price: $239.00

Shop Amazon

The post Metabo HPT 3-1/2 Inch Coil Nailer Review – NV90AG(S) appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge pin nailer is an exceptionally well-designed pinner that easily installs finer workpieces while eliminating the need to fill nail holes. It’s also great for attaching small trim pieces and reducing the amount of touchup required before painting. I’ve put the finishing touches on several projects with it and found it easy to work with, lightweight, and reliable. I also liked how it could even handle longer nails when needed—though I typically top out at 1-3/8 inches.

Pros

• Accepts pin nails up to 2-inches
• Dual trigger system
• Tool-free depth adjustment and jam release
• Oil-free—no stains
• Low nail dry fire lockout
• No marring or indentation

Cons

• No significant downsides

DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge Pin Nailer Performance

There’s not a Pro carpenter out there who doesn’t have an 18-gauge nailer for finish work. Not as many carry a 23-gauge nailer. If the 18-gauge tool suffices for such a wide range of work, why have another tool? The larger nails come with trade-offs. Larger nail holes need to be filled/covered and that thicker fastener has a greater chance of damaging delicate pieces. The powerful DeWalt 23-gauge pin nailer makes a strong case for itself by saving time, avoiding that potential damage, and including a nice feature set.

It does this because the very thin, headless pin nails are barely perceptible once driven. If you dial in the depth of drive and leave the pinhead flush with the work, you don’t have to fill or cover the result. The no-mar tip and smooth drive leave no indentations behind (more on that in the next section). We installed nosing and thin trim on several jobs—and the wood was always left unscathed. As a bonus, the DeWalt DWFP2350K accepts 2-inch pin nails—longer than the 1-3/8-inch max length of most of its competition.

DeWalt DWFP2350K Dual Trigger Design

The dual trigger design is a safety measure that primarily protects your workpieces. All nailers down to 18GA use nose safeties that prevent the gun from firing unless the nose is depressed. Because a 23-gauge pinner is meant for finer work, there’s no such nose safety on the DeWalt (or any pinner that I know of.) Pushing the nose of a pneumatic nailer into a delicate workpiece often leaves marks. Pinners forego this to allow for more precise and careful work.

In the old days, pinners didn’t have such safety mechanisms. I once knew a carpenter who had chest pains and, at the hospital, found that he’d pin nailed himself earlier that day! Fortunately, he recovered.

DeWalt DWFP2350K Light on Weight

As the DeWalt DWFP2350K is a pneumatic gun for small-gauge fasteners, it stays light and maneuverable. A few reviewers have wished for a battery-operated version, but I really think pneumatic is the way to go for such precise work. Bulky, cordless pin nailers like the Ryobi P318 and the Makita XTP02 simply weigh twice as much or more. For those who’d still balk at dragging out an air compressor, I suggest a compromise. The DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer’s air demand is minimal, so you can use a small, battery-powered air compressor.

Even though there’s a low-nail lockout, a small window in the magazine gives you a gauge for remaining nails. I felt that the lockout mechanism really helped prevent jams. Most pin nailers I’ve used jam frequently—particularly when nails get low in the magazine. If the DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer does jam, it may just be the world’s only 23GA pinner with a tool-free jam mechanism. I actually fired many strips of nails and didn’t experience any. That’s one feature I was happy and impressed I didn’t have to use!

DeWalt DWFP2350K Price

The DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer will set you back $149. As I mentioned, it accepts a longer nail than almost all of its competition (2-inch nails versus 1-3/8-inch standard). Here’s a quick look at the field:

• Porter Cable PIN138 1-3/8-inch: $94.99
• Ridgid R138HPA 1-3/8-inch: $134.95
• Makita AF353 1-3/8-inch: $97.95
• Hitachi NP35A 1-3/8-inch: $126.47
• DeWalt DWFP2350K 2-inch: $149
• Bostitch BTFP2350K 2-inch: $121.80

The Bottom Line

With a large nail range, tool-free jam clearance, dual-trigger safety, and lots of finessable power, the DeWalt DWFP2350K pin nailer makes a compelling case for itself. If you thought you could get along with an 18GA nailer, you might reconsider when you see how much time it saves and workpiece marring it avoids. After this review, it’s hard to imagine finish carpentry without it!

DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer Specifications

• Model Number: DWFP2350K
• Fastener Length: 5/8- to 2-inch
• Fastener Type / Gauge: 23 GA Pin Nails
• Magazine Capacity: 135
• Height: 8.75 inches
• Length: 9.2 inches
• Weight:  2.5 pounds
• Trigger Type: Dual
• Price: $149

The post DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge Pin Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

It’s been a while since I last shared my thoughts with you, but I’ve sure been busy! I was out of town for several months building restaurants in the mid-Atlantic states and I’m thankful to have plenty of work closer to home. The Ryobi drywall screw gun that I have today might have come in handy in my travels. If there’s a chance a tool can make those repetitive installation tasks a little quicker, I’m all ears.

Let’s take this drywall screw gun for some test drives.

Pros

• Excellent value
• Nearly complete Pro feature set at a DIY/Prosumer price
• Standard Pro design
• Brushless motor
• Excellent performance over an impact driver for drywall applications

Cons

• Some Pros will be turned away by the lack of a collated magazine

Feature Set

Most of the features are pretty standard for what Pros expect. The big deal for Ryobi, as always, is giving you those features at a price other models can’t match.

• QuietDrive locks variable speed trigger on and uses forward pressure to turn on and engage the motor
• Adjustable and removable nose cone offers depth control and access for bit changes
• Improved Magtray magnetic holder for bits and screws
• Fastener-free belt clip mounts to either side of the tool – it’s nice not to worry about that screw!
• LED work light in front of the Magtray

Missing Features

• Collated magazine

Performance

Setting the Table

I’ve been the super of an Outback Steakhouse remodeling job for the last few months. Although I’m a hands-on sort of guy, it’s been nice to do a little less of the heavy lifting, even if we have to work through the night so customers can still eat during the day. I drove a few screws with the Ryobi drywall screw gun, but I gave it to a couple of my subs who did the vast majority of the drywall.

This is one of those great situations where a guy starts off skeptical and reluctant to use a tool. My subs balked at the Ryobi at first, but I urged them to give it a shot. Wouldn’t you know – it didn’t take long until they actually loved the Ryobi P225.

Making the Change

They thought they’d get along just fine driving screws into the metal studs with their impact drivers. But the impacts proved to fall short in performance. How? At 4700 RPM and perfect torque, the cordless Ryobi drywall screw gun sinks those screws incredibly fast without a hiccup. It didn’t take long for them to put their impacts away for the rest of the job.

The team really likes the QuietDrive that engages by pressing a button in front of the Magtray and flipping the lock on switch below the trigger. This mode shuts the motor off until you apply pressure to the tip, at which point the motor kicks on, drives the screw, and shuts off again until you repeat. It eliminates unnecessary noise which has been nice, especially since we’re used to sleeping instead of working during this time!

Pressure-sensitive driving is a feature you normally find on Pro models, but not DIY. As a tool that can straddle the line between DIY and Pro, it’s a feature that makes pulling the trigger on your purchase that much easier.

Like any drywall screw gun, you’ll notice that the tool can be held in the traditional pistol grip fashion or in a barrel grip along the tool head. Using the barrel grip in combination with QuietDrive, my team was able to work with exceptional speed.

Price & Value

This Ryobi drywall screw gun will set you back $99. If you’re not already on the One+ battery platform, you’ll need to add at least $69 for a battery and charger starter kit. It’s a solid value based on what it gives you if the lack of a collated magazine isn’t a deal-breaker for you. Here’s how some of the competition holds up:

DeWalt DCF620

• 2.7 pounds bare
• 4400 RPM
• $139.00 bare
• $219.00 kitted with two 2.0 Ah batteries
• Collated magazine attachment option sold separately

Milwaukee 2866-20

• 2.5 pounds bare
• 4500 RPM
• $149 bare
• $229 kitted with two 2.0 Ah batteries
• Collated magazine attachment sold separately

Makita XSF04Z

• 4.1 pounds (with battery)
• 2500 RPM
• $172 bare
• $210 kitted with two 2.0 Ah batteries

Ridgid R86630K

• Tool weight not listed
• 4700 RPM
• $199 kitted with two 2.0 Ah batteries and collated magazine

The Bottom Line

When a tool convinces skeptical Pros, you know you’ve got a winner – especially when the tool presents the best value around! The major downside is the lack of an available collated magazine. If that’s not a deal-breaker for you, the Ryobi P225 has the performance and features to move from the DIY ranks to Pro use.

Ryobi Drywall Screw Gun Specifications

• Item Number: P225 (Bare Tool)
• No Load Speed: 0 – 4,700 RPM
• Tool Weight: 2.25 pounds
• Screws per charge: Up to 3,000 using P108 battery
• Warranty: 3 Years
• Price: $99 (Bare Tool)

The post Ryobi Drywall Screw Gun: The Cordless, Brushless, Quiet P225 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The marketplace determined a while back that professional job site table saws should feature 10-inch blades powered by 15-amp motors with convenient, folding stands with wheels for transport and storage. There are exceptions to the rule but, by-and-large, that’s what you’ll find. Yet Pro table saws are different in rip capacity, fence design, build quality, RPMs, and several other features. The newest Hitachi table saw is the Japanese company’s solution to job site cutting needs. It appears to be a contender for all-around table saw excellence, but can it really live up to the hype?

Those of us familiar with the major manufacturers’ table saw offerings will be quick to say, “Hey! That Hitachi saw looks like a carbon copy of the Dewalt DWE7499…what gives?” It’s true – there are some major similarities, but let’s see if they really are the same saw.

Top Features

Motor

As I mentioned, the C10RJ Hitachi table saw is powered by a direct drive universal 15-amp motor with soft start function and an electric brake. It pumps out 4,500 RPM compared to the 4,800 from DeWalt; 3,650 from Bosch’s 4100-09; 4,400 from Ridgid’s R4513; and 5,000 from Kobalt’s KT1015. An overload sensor protects the motor from damage. An oversized power switch featuring an emergency off safety cover protects everything else.

Blade, Table, & Beveling

The mid-range RPMs coupled with the 40-tooth carbide tipped blade suggests that Hitachi meant this saw to do more than just rip rough lumber but instead gave it the chops to do harder wood and cleaner finishes. In fact, woodworkers will appreciate the 8 x 13/16-inch dado capacity.

The table also has the ability to support pieces much larger than a lot of its peers. A 28-3/4-inch x 22-inch working table top extends to a very wide 35-inch rip capacity (to the right) with the help of a rack-and-pinion system and rotating fence that echoes DeWalt’s. What’s more – there’s an outfeed extension of 28-3/4 x 2-inches. Dewalt’s saw allows a 32-1/2-inch rip capacity, Bosch and Ridgid a 25-inch capacity, and Kobalt a 30-inch. A riving knife and anti-kickback pawls keep the user safe while cutting.

Although the miter gauge is often a cheap afterthought on most saws, the Hitachi 10-inch Job site table saw’s T-slot miter gauge has convenient detents 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60° on both sides. The bevel range is 0° to 45° for cut depth ranging from 3-1/8-inch (at 90° ) to 2-1/4-inch (at 45°) and the scale and height adjustments knobs are in the traditional locations.

Fold/Roll Stand and More

Perhaps the standout (or more appropriately, stand-up feature) of this Hitachi table saw is the fold/roll stand. It forms the bones of the saw, allows for accessory storage, houses the folded legs, allows the saw to transform into an upright cart to roll on its 8-inch all-terrain rubber wheels,  and stabilizes the upright saw for storage.\

There’s only one dust port on the Hitachi like most job site table saws. DeWalt stands out with one above its removable blade guard. Finally, the saw is covered by Hitachi’s 2-year limited warranty. Now let’s cut some stuff up!

Performance

My 10-year old table saw bit the dust shortly before the opportunity arose to review the new Hitachi table saw. So not only was I eager to see what the last decade of technological advancement could do, I simply needed a new workhorse to get jobs done. I opened the box and found there’s quite a bit of assembly required – I guess there’s no surprise there. Be prepared to assemble the stand, the riving knife, the outfeed support, the rack-and-pinion fence, along with the smaller things like the blade guard. Then the fun can start as you unfold the stand and get down to business.

Make A Stand

The stand has a wide stance which gives you a sense of stability. Many table saws are designed with the legs too close together such that there’s a danger the saw could tip, especially when you’re cutting a long board or sheet. And you don’t always have the luxury of being on a hard surface – many our jobs start from scratch so you’re working outside in the shifty Florida sand, so the more stable the saw can be, the better. When you’re ready to move to the next job or at least pack up your tools – which I do each day – folding the legs down, tipping the saw up, and rolling to the truck, and even lifting the 96-pound saw can be accomplished by one guy.

Table It For Now

A big working table top and the even bigger 35-inch rip capacity is a big deal. It’s obvious that the more of the surface of a sheet good that’s supported during the cut, the more precise and safe the operation. The much-loved rack-and-pinion fence extends 2.5-inches further on this model than DeWalt’s and seems to stay quite square. The fence rotates around to form an edge level with the table top to facilitate the big rips. The outfeed extension helps to distribute and stabilize the weight of the material. Of course, more surfaces in contact with each other means more resistance, which is again why the stability of the legs is so important.

Making The Cut

I started cutting dimensional lumber on a remodel job and found the initial cuts to be straight and accurate. The ruler on the edge of the table allows you to make quick measurements and the plastic marker – once dialed in – ensures you can get very accurate when you’re doing finish work where you can’t have gaps or shadows. The Hitachi table saw certainly has the power and precision to do the work you need it to do, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a blade heel problem other reviewers have uncovered. The adjustment to make the blade parallel with the miter slots and fence isn’t mentioned in the manual and requires you to remove a pair of bolts under the table to make the adjustment.

That seems like a lot to go through, however, the manual provides instruction on how to adjust the fence, riving knife, and bevel to the blade’s current position if it’s slightly out. I’d start with those much easier to access adjustments to get your blade square first. I’d only go underneath to make the adjustment in a worst case scenario if the others don’t work.

Pro Tip

Make sure you’re supplying the right amount of amps to the saw – just because the motor runs on 15 amps doesn’t mean the cord is supplying it. If you’re starving it for amps, it’s going to bog down or burn up.

The Next Bevel

Assuming the blade, miter gauge, and fence are all in the same plane, all of your cuts – including bevels – will be accurate. The bevel/height adjustment wheel works like any other table saw you’ve seen, so there’s nothing novel there. The bevel lock lever is a plastic-to-metal connection that can slide right off and may potentially wear down. It’s not terribly uncommon for this class and an area I’d like to see some improvement across the board.

Tap The Brakes

The blade brake is an excellent safety feature. It’s also convenient. Waiting on the blade to stop before moving the material is annoying. A spinning blade can cause kickback, damage to your work, and injury. It’s good practice to act around blades as if they don’t have brakes. But in any event, the brake saves us time and potential damage. Also excellent is the onboard storage for the push stick, blade wrenches, and cord wrap, but the miter gauge is a little wobbly. It actually fell out a couple of times in transport, so just be sure it’s secure.

The Bottom Line

The stable and powerful Hitachi table saw is packed with features that any Pro should love, including the largest rip capacity in its class. It’s built for soup-to-nuts work from dimensional lumber to sheet materials. The cutting, folding, and transporting features work remarkably well.

It’s not without its weaknesses, however. It’s difficult to heel for all but the most patient and experienced guys, the miter gauge can’t be stowed securely, and the bevel lock lever is quite flimsy. While the blade heeling is definitely the standout among those areas for improvement, other adjustments are integrated into the saw’s fence, riving knife, and bevel to avoid having to go the difficult route.

At $688.22, the new Hitachi table saw comes in a bit below DeWalt’s $580 machine, which the Hitachi could be mistaken for at a glance if it wasn’t for the colors. Still, there are material differences that might convince a Pro to choose one over the other. But for the price, the feature set is quite attractive and it will undoubtedly prove to be more than enough saw for many users.

Hitachi Table Saw C10RJ Features

• Direct drive universal 4,500 RPM 15 Amp motor
• Soft start function reduces noise and recoil at start-up
• Electric brake
• 10-inch 40-Tooth carbide tipped blade included
• Bevel range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees for cuts ranging from 3-1/8-inch (at 0 degrees) to 2-1/4-inch (at 45 degrees)
• 28-3/4-inch x 22-inch working table top with out feed support of 28-3/4-inch x 2-inch
• Telescoping table extension supports 35-inches of ripping capacity to the right and 22-inches to the left
• Front bevel scale and height adjustment knobs
• Equipped with a 3/4-inch T-slot miter gauge that features a large scale with adjustable positive stops at 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 degrees to the left and right to help guide material accurately for a truer cut
• On-tool accessory storage
• 8 x 13/16-inch Dado capacity
• Stable and durable fold & roll stand
• Large 8-inch rubber, all-terrain treaded wheels
• Overload protection
• Riving knife
• Oversized power switch with emergency off safety cover
• Rear-positioned 2-1/2 inch dust port
• 2-year limited warranty

Hitachi Table Saw C10RJ Specifications

• Model Number: Hitachi C10RJ
• Blade Size: 10-inch
• Motor: 15 Amp 120V – 60Hz
• No-Load Speed: 4,500 RPM
• Blade Type Included: 40T Carbide Tipped
• Table Material: Aluminum
• Working Table Size: 28-3/4 x 22-inch
• Outfeed Support Size: 28-3/4  x 2-inch
• Max Rip Capacity Right: 35-inch
• Max Rip Capacity Left: 22-inch
• Cut Depth @ 0 Degrees: 3-1/8-inch
• Max Cut Depth @ 45 Degrees: 2-1/4-inch
• Max Width of Dado: 8 x 13/16-inch
• Soft Start: Yes
• Electric Brake: Yes
• Dust Port Size: 2-1/2-inch
• Fold & Roll Stand: Included
• Tool Weight (Assembled): 96 lbs
• Warranty: 2-Year
• Price: $688.22

Shop Amazon

The post Hitachi Table Saw C10RJ Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Go with the Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive or stick with a sidewinder?

It’s been hard to miss the lively discussion here and elsewhere about sidewinders versus worm drive circular saws. Traditionally, sidewinders with their blade-right orientation have been more popular in the Eastern U.S. and worm drives with their blade-left orientation have been more widely used in the West. But it’s more than which side the blade is on. There’s torque and weight to talk about as well as some maintenance.

But which design is best? Well, that depends on who you talk to. Most contractors probably have at least one of each for different applications. I don’t suppose we’ll settle anything with this review of the Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive and frankly, there’s really nothing to settle. It’s a matter of familiarity, preference, and task. But there are tasks that we reach for a worm drive first on.

First Impressions

Those familiar only with sidewinders (also known as a direct drive) will probably notice the weight of the Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive first. It’s heavy, but not only is that a characteristic of all worm drives, it’s actually not a bad thing, believe it or not.

The longer, narrower worm drive has a motor position behind the blade instead of beside it like a sidewinder. Ridgid includes a powerful 15-amp motor, on par with the high end of circular saw power and what Pros look for. Another distinction of worm drives is lower RPMs but much higher torque even though both styles pack a 15-amp motor at this level.

The saw features 0° to 56° bevel capability with positive stop detents at common angles, a cast aluminum base, a handy rafter hook, an onboard allen wrench for blade changes (note the reverse thread!) and Ridgid’s Hex Grip overmold on the handle.

You’ll see an oil sight since this type of saw requires lubrication – a maintenance item unnecessary on the saw’s sidewinding brethren. And since powerful motors do lots of work and get hot, Ridgid’s ThruCool technology is designed to allow air to flow through the center of the motor and out the sides to stay cool.

Stay ThruCool This Summer

Many tradesmen will say the distinct advantage of a worm drive saw is the combination of superior torque for rip cuts and the blade-left cut line visibility for right-handed users (which most people are). But as I mentioned, there are some fine blade-left sidewinders in production, so does that diminish the need for worm drives?

Not really. Keep in mind that you might opt one saw over another depending on the application. For instance, the Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive is so muscular that I think it heard it laugh after I cut a bunch of 2x4s while we were framing out some new construction. But it’s really an overkill of torque for that task, and the need for a cord and the saw’s weight don’t make it the best choice for basic framing. It’s hard to beat our cordless sidewinder for that work.

In contrast, when we have long rip or cross cuts, or thicker or harder lumber, the Ridgid blasts through with ease where our typical saw will struggle. It gives you a great sense of power and control with its smooth cutting action. Some of that is undoubtedly due to the weight. While you might think it’s a disadvantage, the weight helps you keep a fine line. Plunge cuts are likewise a breeze. And you right-handers get a clear view of the cut line.

The Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive seems particularly well-suited for deck-building with its long cuts in pressure treated lumber. Lay out the deck and pop the line – the saw won’t break a sweat, even if the lumber is wet. And if you need to adjust the depth or make a bevel cut, the adjustments are very simple and smooth. Even if you don’t normally use a worm drive, a tool like this can make your job a lot easier when used for the right purposes!

About that Weight

So generally how much heavier and more powerful is the Ridgid than a typical corded sidewinder?

Ridgid tips the scales at a little over 15 pounds whereas its sidewinder counterparts will come in between 8 and 9 pounds. Battery-powered circular saws fall somewhere in 10-pound range thanks to battery weight. But even within the worm drive category, some saws can push under 13 pounds with magnesium construction.

Pro Tip

A worm drive’s weight can be an advantage since it helps keep the powerful saw down on your material so you can focus your effort on moving the saw forward on a straight path.

The Bottom Line

The Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive is a powerful beast of a circular saw. It can certainly be your primary saw since it’s much more powerful than any sidewinder and can handle anything you throw at it. Even though it doesn’t have the advantage of weight-saving magnesium, it does feature a ThruCool motor design to potentially extend the life of the tool.

Does it work?

There’s certainly the performance we expect to find in a worm drive, but it will take more time to see if the motor holds up. Regardless, Ridgid backs it up with their Lifetime Service Agreement, so they’re taking the risk – as long as you register it.

The choice between a sidewinder and a worm drive is really a simple one. Both saws have their advantages. You can certainly use them interchangeably the vast majority of the time but just grab (at least) one of each and the problem is solved. Your work life will be much better for it. At a reasonable $169, Ridgid’s ThruCool is coming with me to every job now – even framing jobs – just in case!

Related Content

• Sidewinder Vs Worm Drive

• Blade-Left Vs Blade-Right

• Cordless Circular Saw Shootout

• Making Accurate Circular Saw Cuts

Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive Circular Saw Features

• 15 Amp motor delivers full power in a lighter, more compact size
• Visible oil sight to quickly check oil for easy maintenance
• 0° to 56° bevel detent system positive stops at common cut angles for quick adjustments
• Sky hook integrated rafter hook for easy storage
• Cast aluminum base engineered for improved durability on the jobsite
• Protected cord relief durable cover extends cord life

Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive Circular Saw Specifications

• Model Number: R32104
• Depth: 20.94 inches
• Height: 8.50 inches
• Width: 8.31 inches
• Blade Diameter: 7-1/4 inches
• Max cut depth @ 90 degrees: 2.375 inches
• Amperage: 15 amps
• Bevel Capacity: 56-degrees
• Blade Location: Left
• Cord Length: 6 feet keyed
• Max cut depth at 45 degrees: 1.75 inches
• Max speed: RPM 5,000
• Weight: 15.37 pounds
• Price: TBD

The post Ridgid ThruCool Worm Drive Circular Saw Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Most people will never appreciate the skill it takes to finish drywall unless they give it a shot and find out it’s a little more difficult than it looks. Not only do the walls need to be seamless, but you need to make the holes for outlets and switches accurate and in an exact location. We might do a drywall taping and mudding tutorial at some point, but today let’s focus on a tool that’s designed to make holes in drywall a breeze – the Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool. You’ll recognize the business end of it as a rotary tool that spins a thin bit, but what you rarely see is a cordless version.

That’s right – Hilti brings this tool onto its 22V platform which is also compatible with its 18V platform. As an old-school guy who’s spent plenty of time with a jab saw in hand, I’ve been slow to make the switch from the manual method.

But watching a few videos of this tool in action – and not being tethered to a cord – is enough to make me want to give it a shot. Let’s see if I can keep my hope of tossing my jab saw or if I should just, well, cut it out.

Confused About Hilti 18V and Hilti 22V? This Will Clear it Up!

First Impressions

Hilti’s signature red and black color scheme makes for handsome tools, and the Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool is no exception. It’s a little bit larger than most rotary tools, but rather than giving the impression of bulkiness, it gives one of power. It’s just 4.2 pounds and comfortable in the hand. Part of that comfort is due to the long paddle trigger which has an interesting dead man’s switch for safety. If the tool’s operator isn’t holding the switch down, the motor immediately brakes and the bit stops turning.

But that certainly isn’t the end of the tool’s promising bells and whistles. Two bright LED work lights illuminate the cutting area – my jab saw doesn’t have those! The exhaust is designed to blow dust away from the user, which is particularly important because the respirable particles created by cutting drywall are hazardous to your health. I’d still suggest using appropriate PPE. But that dust isn’t just harmful to the body; it’s also very tough on a tool’s motor. Hilti is so confident in the design that it offers the longest warranty of any cut-out tool available, as it falls under the company’s 20-2-1 warranty.

Cutting It Out

An interior finish Pro uses the same method for drywall cuts whether he’s using a saw or cut-out tool. Measuring roughly where the center of the switch, outlet, or fixture box is before the wall is up, he puts up the drywall, and measures again to find that center. He makes a cut at that center point toward the inside edge of the box. Hitting the inside edge, he moves the blade or bit slightly to find the outside edge of the box and continues the cut around the perimeter until a hole is complete.

No matter how good you are, saws leave a messy edge and outlet covers don’t leave much margin for error. Just a little carelessness leaves you with some drywall repair to do around the hole. It’s not the end of the world, but wouldn’t it be much easier to just make a clean cut that’s slightly larger than the outlet box?

Well, there’s really no comparison to the saw: the Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool cuts through drywall like butter. It’s impressively powerful, it’s very easy to make the initial plunge into the sheet, move toward the inside edge, and then hug the outside edge. It leaves a wonderfully clean cut. And as advertised, the exhaust blows the dust away from the tool and from me, making the job easier and safer.

Pro Tip:

The cut-out tool is much like a router, so move it counter-clockwise on outside edges for the most control and least mess!

This tool is beastly – in a good way! Hilti claims it’s so strong, it can cut tougher materials than just single sheet drywall including double layer 5/8-inch and even cement board. I didn’t have the opportunity to do that type of cutting during the course of the review, but given how it sliced through the cuts I did make, there’s not one doubt that it can live up to those claims.

The work lights are great for obvious reasons – working in poor lighting conditions – but they also help quite a bit if pencil marks on the drywall are just a little faint. It keeps you more accurate and helps you avoid mistakes. The dead man’s switch works perfectly, too. Couple it with the exhaust that blows that respirable silica dust away from your face, and you’ve got one of the most powerful, safest cut-out tools you can buy. At least until someone creates a dust shroud that connects to a HEPA dust extractor.

The Bottom Line

The Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool is cordless, brushless, and remarkably powerful. It might look a little bigger than other cut-out tools you’ve used or seen, but don’t let that dissuade you. It still feels light at 4.2 pounds and it’s got the chops to cut through doubled-up drywall sheets and even cement board. Safety features like a dead man’s switch that brakes the bit instantly, an exhaust that blows respirable dust away from the user, and two bright LED work lights make this an excellent tool for interior finish Pros.

Price is always a consideration and Hilti can hit your wallet pretty hard at times. If you’re already on the 18V or 22V battery platform (they’re interchangeable), the bare tool will run you $219. It’s $379 for the kit with a charger and a pair of 3.0 amp hour batteries to keep you running. That’s a pretty big premium over other Pro cordless options from Milwaukee, Makita, and DeWalt. But of course, you get a brushless motor along with Hilti’s excellent reputation for build quality backed up by their 20-2-1 warranty service.

Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool Features

• Brushless motor provides superior lifetime and cutting performance similar to that of a corded tool
• Compatible with all Hilti 18V and 22V batteries
• Optimal airflow management guides dust away from the user’s face and the motor
• Two bright LEDs at the front for good visibility of the cutting area, even in dark corners
• One-handed paddle switch and fast-acting brake for additional safety and speed of operation
• Easy, controlled cuts around outlet boxes, can lights, etc.
• Cuts in dense materials such as abuse-resistant board, cement board
• Cuts in double-layer 5/8″ gypsum boards
• Fast cutting of long openings in drywall for doors and windows

Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool Specifications

• Model Number: SCO 6-A22 (Bare), SCO 6-A (Kit)
• Electric Brake
• Dimensions: (LxWxH)12.8 x 3.5 x 4.6 Inches
• Weight According to EPTA-Procedure 01/2003: 4.2 Pounds
• Price: $468.75 (Bare), $829.98 (Kit)

The post Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Hitachi is producing some impressive tools these days. You may have read our reviews on their newer rotary hammer, impact driver, and several others. I’ve had the good fortune to a review few of them myself. Concurrent to the test of the Hitachi 2‑1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer, I also tested its big brother, the Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer. It’s no surprise there are some design similarities, but will the big gun be as much of a hit as the small one?

I’m ready to find out.

First Impressions

The Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer is a handsome gun. It’s surprisingly light at 7.7 pounds. Of course, that size is necessary to generate the force at 70-120 PSI to drive the 1-3/4- to 3-1/2-inch, 0.099- to 0.131-inch diameter framing nails.

The side-loading magazine tilts out slightly for easy loading just like the Hitachi Siding Nailer and accommodates 200-300 wire collated nails. Unlike the siding nailer, however, the magazine isn’t transparent so it’s not possible to see how many nails are left on the coil.

It has the same selective actuation switch I like so much on the NV65AH2 that allows the user to change between sequential (single) and continuous (bump fire) actuation. Another echo of the siding nailer is the depth of drive dial. In the old days, I’d just adjust the pressure on my compressor if nails were sinking too deep or standing too proud, but that’s not very convenient if I’m up on a roof or ladder! So this is a helpful feature that’s become an industry standard.

Finally, the overmold grip seems comfortable at first blush. It includes some textured bumps for added control. Of course, the real test is having a magazine full of 300 heavy framing nails!

What’s In A Frame

As I mentioned, a framing nailer must be larger than its siding or roofing brethren to generate the force it takes to drive the longer, thicker nails used in building the wooden bones of a building. That’s why framing nailers typically go with a stick magazine design. The plastic collated strip is lighter than a coil full of nails. The weight trade-off for the typical stick framing nailer is that work must stop more frequently for reloading.

But because the Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer is so light, it can incorporate the coil design to give the user the best of both worlds. It has the power to drive large framing nails with the nail capacity of a siding or roofing nailer. Still, a fully loaded magazine certainly won’t be a featherweight by any means, so have an extra protein shake in the morning and enjoy the uninterrupted workflow.

Loading

Loading and adjusting the magazine for nail length is a breeze. The side-loading magazine has a tilting feature that makes putting a new coil in very convenient. It’s much easier than the clumsy design of older nailers. The caveat here is the same with the siding nailer: the magazine just feels flimsy compared to the rigid stick magazines. I haven’t had one break, but it just doesn’t inspire confidence. Time will tell if it holds up.

Early Performance

I usually use the bump fire actuation, which has been flawless over these first few weeks. I didn’t have any jams or misfires. As I mentioned, the depth of drive dial on the gun is a time and effort saving feature – no more adapting the regulator dials for depth. Perhaps best of all, the gun is well-balanced which makes even the full magazine seem lighter. The overmolded handle is comfortable to hold and the trigger pull is easy.

Moving from a stick to coil framing nailer means you’ll have to give up your dry fire lockout. Comparable models from Bostitch, DeWalt, and others don’t include them, either, so it’s not a standard feature. Just realize it’s not there.

Being Nosey

I especially like the claw style nose that bites into the wood, making toenailing easy. The nose design is open underneath, which Hitachi tells us will make clearing jams easier. I’ll let you know once I finally have my first one. As it is, it at least appears to make it easier to access the jam.

Room for Improvement

For improvements, I’d like to see a swivel air inlet to accommodate hose movement. I’m grateful that Hitachi provides an inlet connector since some manufacturers don’t, but I do love my swivel connectors. On the more significant side, I’d add a rafter/belt hook. It would make working at height much easier while climbing.

There’s also the issue of knowing how many nails I have left. Adding a window to the magazine like we see in the siding nailer would handle that well. Finally, I’d prefer an adjustable exhaust port for those awkward positions when it’s directed right at me.

The Bottom Line

Coming in at 7.7 pounds and boasting up to 300 nails takes framing to another level. Of course, a fully loaded magazine is going to be heavier than the traditional stick designs, but you won’t stop to reload as often.

From a performance standpoint, the Hitachi NV90AG(S) has performed flawlessly in my first few weeks of testing. Ergonomically, the nailer is balanced well around the idea of having a heavy magazine load and offers a secure grip.

A few features are missing that I’d like to see on the next generation including a rafter hook, adjustable exhaust, and magazine window. And yes, if you’re going to provide an inlet connector, please include a swivel model. While these stand out to me as areas for improvement, neither individually nor as a group are they a deal breaker in my opinion. The performance, ergonomics, and capacity outweigh them.

The Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer comes in at $279 with a 5-year warranty. That’s not the cheapest framing nailer you’ll buy, but it’s not bad for the coil framing class. Given Hitachi’s reputation in the nailer category and the performance I’ve experienced, I can recommend this one for other Pros.

Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer Features

• New head guard design allows for quicker disassembly during tool maintenance
• Lightweight at 7.7 lbs and well-balanced for ease of maneuverability and less user fatigue
• Selective actuation switch allows for quick transitions between sequential and contact nailing with the simple flip of a switch
• Accepts 1-3/4″ up to 3-1/2″ wire collated coil framing nails
• Tool-less depth adjustment dial allows the user to countersink or flush drive nails into a variety of materials without having to adjust the pressure at the compressor
• Convenient side load, tilt bottom magazine allows for quick and easy fastener replenishment
• Open nose design provides easy access to clear nail jams
• Rubber grip provides comfort and ensures a secure hold

Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer Specifications

• Model Number: Hitachi NV90AG(S)
• Collation Type: wire coil
• Magazine Angle: 16 degree +/- 1 degree
• Fastener Length Range: 1-3/4 to 3-1/2-inches
• Fastener Diameter Range: 0.099-0.131
• Magazine Capacity: 200-300
• Operating pressure: 70-120 PSI
• Air consumption @ 100 PSI: 0.09 SCFM
• Depth Adjustment: tool-free
• Actuation: selective
• Jam Clearing: open nose
• Dry Fire Lockout: no
• Adjustable Exhaust Port: no
• Rubber Overmold: yes
• LxWxH: 13-1/4 x 5-15/16 x 13-1/16-inch
• Weight: 7.7 pounds
• Warranty: 5 year
• Price: $495.95

The post Hitachi 3-1/2-Inch Coil Framing Nailer Review NV90AG(S) appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

I must have hit the Metabo HPT lottery. I’ve not only been able to do several (formerly Hitachi) tool reviews recently, but they’ve all been high-performers. Earlier, I put the Metabo HPT 8-gallon wheelbarrow compressor through its paces and found it to be excellent. Now I have what I hope is an equally excellent companion piece: the Hitachi 10-gallon Reserve Air Tank. With an 8-gallon compressor supplying two couplers that my crew couldn’t outrun, why in the world would I need a reserve tank? Great question. Let’s get to work.

Check out our Best Air Compressors article for our top picks across a variety of applications and uses.

The Case for a Reserve Tank

There are many reasons to choose a reserve tank. Suppose you don’t have access to power, or the electricians need to cut the power for a while. With a reserve air tank, your work doesn’t have to stop. If you need to have several guys framing and another one finishing, the regulator can adjust for the tool requiring lower pressure. If you’ve got an electric compressor, you can use its cord to plug into a power source and use the air hose as your extension cord. Finally, a reserve tank effectively turns smaller compressors (that you can easily outrun) into larger compressors by giving them a 10-gallon head start. You’ll be able to work more efficiently—and with a nicer atmosphere.

First Impressions

The 175 PSI ASME-certified tank has 1/4-inch coupling sockets. Designed to provide consistent, sufficient air pressure, these sockets support up to five pneumatic tools operating 200 feet or more from the compressor. Four of the couplers are 3/8-inch NPT and regulated by the compressor while one 1/4-inch NPT coupler has its own regulator. The 40-pound tank can be taken a lot of places (like a roof!) that the 158-pound compressor cannot. That also means that the compressor’s loud motor can be moved away from the job site for a more pleasant environment—provided you like your coworkers!

The horizontal barrel features a handle that creates a roll-cage design. It protects both the tank and regulator pressure gauges. It also has an input shut-off ball valve, a safety release valve, and a 1/4-inch industrial plug. The tank sits sturdily on two steel legs. All the components look well-built, and the gauges are easy to read. It all adds up to a promising tool that I hoped wasn’t full of hot air!

A Ten Gallon Hat Only Holds Three Quarts

I decided the real test of the Metabo HPT 10-gallon Reserve Air Tank would be to couple it with our old pancake compressor. That seemed a better fit over the Metabo HPT 8-gallon wheelbarrow compressor. We couldn’t outrun the Hitachi compressor with our typical two-guns-at-a-time workflow, but we often outran our pancake compressor. This experiment would really test the mettle of the reserve tank. We let the pancake fill up the reserve tank and got to work. Our experiment, however, was interrupted. Unbeknownst to me, my brother unplugged the compressor to plug in the planer and forgot to plug the compressor back in.

We fired him immediately…just kidding. We used two finish guns for over an hour—just on the pressure from the reserve tank—before we realized what happened. It turned out to be a better experiment than I had planned! It revealed a benefit of the reserve tank that might not be immediately apparent. It’s not uncommon to be working concurrently with electricians who need to cut power to get their work done. Having the reserve tank means that our work doesn’t need to stop when the power does.

The Case for a Reserve Tank

Afterward, we returned to the original test and found that the reserve tank effectively turns a small compressor into a larger compressor by giving it a 10-gallon head start. Using the reserve tank makes it a lot less likely you’ll outrun a small compressor with finish nailers. Of course, you’ll still push the limits of the small compressor and reserve tank with a couple of framing nailers.

The five couplers are really handy. We don’t often have that many pneumatic tools working at once, but we like having the option. The ability to regulate one lower-pressure tool independently of the other four is also a great feature. Perhaps you want to run a finish gun while the other tools drive larger nails. Or, maybe one guy needs to run a sprayer while the others frame. Again, having the option is great.

Pro Tip: Use the bottom drain to remove moisture from the tank every day to prevent rust and extend the life of the tool.

The reserve tank allows you to locate a loud compressor away from the workspace. This makes it easier to communicate, and it generally creates a more pleasant work environment. In fact, the Metabo HPT 10-gallon reserve air tank gives you as much as a 200-foot lead while maintaining consistent pressure to the attached pneumatic tools. Similarly, you can plug an electric compressor into a power pole using its own cord and effectively use your air hose as an extension. What a big benefit!

Metabo HPT 10-gallon Reserve Air Tank Features

• Safety Relief Valve
• Industrial Tank Pressure Gauge and Regulated Pressure Gauge
• Industrial Ball (Shut-Off) Valve on Input
• Four 1/4-inch Quick Connect Couplers with 3/8-inch NPT
• 1/4-inch Quick Connect Coupler (located on Regulator) with 1/4-inch NPT
• 1/4-inch Industrial Plug
• Roll cage design
• Steel tubular handle
• Steel legs
• Industrial ball (shut-off) valve

The Bottom Line

Knowing what I know now, I would have purchased a Metabo HPT 10-gallon reserve air tank a long time ago. It doesn’t hurt that Metabo HPT’s quality and attention to detail make this tank another win in a lengthening line of wins. It’s a 175 PSI ASME-certified tank with five 1/4-inch coupling sockets. Four have 3/8-inch NPT regulated by the compressor and one is a 1/4-inch NPT with its own regulator on the reserve tank. It’s designed to run up to five pneumatic tools 200 feet or more from the compressor. Its components and design are solid. We love the roll cage-shaped handle which protects the regulator. Easy-to-read gauges and steel legs round out what makes this a solid choice. At 40 pounds, it can also go where larger compressors cannot.

There’s not much to talk about with a tank, and Metabo HPT joins other companies that produce well-designed products in this category. The more you use a reserve air tank, the more likely you’ll wonder how you made out without one. Keep that noisy compressor at the edge of the job site instead of in the middle of it.

I can easily recommend the Metabo HPT 10-gallon reserve air tank to you. At $139, you get lots of benefits at a great value—and that’s not a lot of hot air.

Metabo HPT 10-Gal Air Compressor Tank Specifications

• Model number: Metabo HPT UA3810AB
• Max PSI: 175
• Weight: 40 pounds
• Warranty: 1 year
• Price: $169

The post Metabo HPT 10-Gallon Reserve Air Tank Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Since reviewing the Hitachi’s 8-gallon gas-powered wheelbarrow air compressor, I felt a heavy desire to hook it up to and review the new Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer immediately afterward. Testing all these great tools is a tough job, but someone has to do it! This nailer is among a fleet of new tools Hitachi recently introduced, many of which have been favorably reviewed, so I had high expectations. I also had a house to build, so it was imperative to have a reliable nailer.

First Impressions

This 70-120 PSI gun is compact and light at 4.8 pounds (empty) and I could tell right away that it would be a welcome change from the bigger, heavier framing nailer that I often use for siding. Its side-loading magazine accepts up to three hundred 1-1/2 to 2-1/2-inch collated nails from 0.9 to 0.099-inch diameter and features a plastic shield to protected the user from the spent collation wire that sometimes flies off during the drive.

Other features that stood out immediately were sequential (single action) or contact (bump fire) switch, the tool-free depth of drive adjustment which has become standard, an adjustable exhaust deflector, and a comfortable rubber grip overmold. It was all quite promising except for the 3/8-inch air inlet: it wasn’t a swivel connection, which would have been a nice touch.

All Coiled Up

Coil Siding Nailer Vs Coil Roofing Nailer

You may wonder if there’s really any difference between a coil roofing nailer and a coil siding nailer since they appear so similar. It’s easy to find internet discussion forums discussing their potential interchangeability. A roofing nailer accepts nails for fastening some types of siding and house wraps where a short, smooth shank and a bigger head is appropriate, but the opposite isn’t true – the Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer won’t run roofing nails. Then again, a roofing nailer certainly can’t accommodate nails as long as the Hitachi NV65AH2. The bottom line is that a siding nailer’s coil affords you the high nail capacity of a roofing nailer with the ability to accommodate longer nails.

Loading

The Hitachi NV65AH2 magazine is transparent plastic – a nice touch because you can easily get a sense for how many nails remain on the coil. When the magazine is open, the coil holder “leans” out slightly to accept the coil of nails – it’s all very easy and it works well. The problem is that the whole assembly feels flimsy. It didn’t break but neither did it inspire confidence. I must say that I’ve had other Hitachi guns with a similar part and they didn’t fail, either. Still, it seems almost too delicate for the job site. Time will tell.

Performance

The Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer performed admirably as the house we were building came together. I didn’t have misfires. Its weight and size made it much more maneuverable than its framing counterpart would have been. It’s easy to choose this nailer over a framer for all but the longest nails. If the task at hand calls for the 1-1/2 to 2-1/2-inch nails, I heartily recommend reaching for the Hitachi NV65AH2 over a framer.

But it’s not only the size and weight that make this gun attractive. A simple switch makes is easy to change the actuation from sequential (single fire) to contact (bump fire) nailing. The rubber overmold grip is comfortable, the exhaust deflector keeps the bursts of air out of your face, and the depth of drive adjustment is easy to use. Pros often find themselves adjusting the pressure on the compressor to adjust depth on older guns, but there’s no need when you can do it on the tool itself.

Pro Tip:

Bump fire actuation requires an extra measure of caution – as long as the trigger is pulled, a nail will shoot when the nose is depressed. Be sure to know what actuation mode you’ve selected. 

Room for Improvement

As I mentioned in my first impressions, the 3/8-inch air inlet doesn’t swivel. Including a ball swivel connector is something I’d like to see become standard. From a retail standpoint, it’s an extra $5 over a fixed connector. On the other hand, some nail guns still ship with no connector.

Another omission – there’s no hook for tool belt or ladder. It does assuage my disappointment slightly that the gun includes safety glasses a no-mar nose cap, but honestly, I’d rather have the swivel inlet and hook! You can see from the pictures that the tool body isn’t protected by no-mar pads, which is especially curious given that there’s no belt hook. You have to lay it down rather than hanging it from a ladder or belt, but then there’s nothing to cushion it.

The Bottom Line

The Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer proved itself to be an excellent tool based on its size, weight, and reliable performance. It includes many features that improve safety and ease of use such as the plastic shield, the actuation switch, the exhaust deflector, and the depth of drive adjustment.

It fills a need in the nailer space because coil roofing nailers can’t accommodate nails as long as the Hitachi NV65AH2 can, but it’s also smaller and lighter than the framing nailers that many Pros use for siding. Its coil magazine means that it has nail capacity that far outstrips a framing nailer and that results in more time working and less time spent reloading.

I’d like to see a swivel connector and belt hook along with no-mar overmold on the tool body added to future models. At $349, the Hitachi is already a great gun that I heartily recommend. However, the addition of those features would help bring a more fully-featured product to match the premium price and outstanding performance.

Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer Features

• Selective actuation switch allows for either sequential or contact nailing
• Side-load, tilt-bottom magazine
• Tool-less depth of drive adjustment
• Drives wire and plastic sheet collated nails
• Adjustable air deflector
• No-mar nose cap attachment
• Plastic shield that deflects wire collation
• Rubber grip overmold

Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer Specifications

• Model: Hitachi NV65AH2
• Price: $349
• Dimensions: 11-27/64-inch long x 5-3/64-inch wide  x 11-3/16-inch high
• Weight: 4.8 pounds
• Collation: Coil, Wire/Plastic Sheet
• Magazine angle: 16-Degrees (wire), 15-Degrees (plastic)
• Fastener capacity length: 1-1/2- to 2-1/2-inch
• Fastener diameter range: 0.9 to 0.099
• Magazine capacity: 200-300
• Magazine loading: Side
• Air inlet: 3/8-inch
• Operating pressure 70-120 PSI
• Actuation: Contact or Sequential
• Depth of drive: Tool-free
• Warranty: 5 years

The post Hitachi 2-1/2-Inch Coil Siding Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.