Stanley 33-72525' Fat Max Tape Measure
by Stanley
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $16.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Rubber nonslip grip
• 1-1/4-inch easy-to-read blade
• 11-foot tape standout
• Mylar-coated blade
• Rugged, durable casing

Reviews (24)

Who designed this?
I've been stymied trying to find the width of the Fat Max's body to calculate the total length. I measured it with another tape (irony) at 3 1/4" but wondered why there wasn't an indication on the housing. Finally, with my arm's-length near eyesight I found a molded legend that's almost covered by the belt clip. Pisspoor product design, but it's a Stanley tradition. Even with reading glasses its hard to read the reflective chrome plated numerals on earlier Stanley tapes I've owned. I wrote a big "+3 1/4" on the case with a Sharpie and vow to avoid Stanley products in the future.

Excellent one man tool
This is my second Fat max tape.Although they aredurable, at this price they are the most expensive construction 25' tape I've seen.I started out using the Craftsmen tapes because of the lifetime warranty.Doing siding, often by myself, I found the 11' standout to be extremely helpful.So now I have another one.It really does stand out 11' feet.That isn't just helpful when I'm up on a ladder trying to measure my next cut but it is also helpful when I'm on the ground and running the tape out to the end of a board.My craftsmen tape won't hold up past 5'.The end protector.It really helps.My first tape cracked at the 5" mark but I was able to use it another three weeks because the Mylar never gave way.It wasn't until most of the 5 was gone that I finally gave it up.

Now the bad.First price.I will only use this tape when the weather is dry.If I keep it dry and relatively clean it will last a lot longer.That just means on wet days I can't use it.Which during the winter time is often.Second, size.This doesn't fit in most standard tape holders.Although I was able to stretch my leather one out, now my back up tape just falls out.Oh well.

I consider this a great tool.I will continue to buy them even at this price.I guess I just need to make a little effort to take better care of them.

could be improved
I bought this tape awhile back, I have been a Stanley tape using for years, I find that the hook on the end does not grip properly, I think that it is because the wide blade has a deeper arch in it and the hook needs to be a little longer. It pops off alot which is a real hassle. Although I have this one in my tool box, I pretty much use my 3/4" blade Stanley most of the time. ... Read more

Asin: B00002PV66
Sales Rank: 150
Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools    2. Tape Measures   

Stanley 51-943 Antivibe 20-Ounce Curved Claw Hammer
by Stanley
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $30.00 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Rubber grip molded directly onto shaft
• Double forged steel head and handle for superior swing and greater durability
• Patented tuning fork design reduces harmful vibrations three times more than the leading one-piece forged steel hammer
• Unique grip design for both framers and nail hammers
• Patented ergonomic handles designed for multiple grip positions

Reviews (1)

Sweet swinger!
This is one of those tools that just puts a smile on your face when you hold it in your hand. For years, I've used an old wooden-handled hammer my dad used to fix fence with on the ranch. As soon as I got this nice Stanley in my hand, I knew I'd made a good choice. I was in the middle of a remodeling project when it arrived and immediately put it to work. What a difference! I didn't know what I was missing. Nice weight, balance, and grip. No vibration. A good choice. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QVQK
Sales Rank: 6744
Subjects:  1. Hand Tools    2. Hammers    3. Claw Hammers   

Ironclad HUG-04-LHeavy Utility Gloves, Large
by Ironclad
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $32.90 -- our price: $24.69
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Ironclad has given hands a new lease with their high-tech approach to glove design. Ironclad gloves are made to protect workers' hands better than other work gloves, without feeling clumsy the way so many work gloves can. The first thing we noticed about these gloves is that they're tailored to fit the natural curve hands have in a resting position, rather than being cut straight, so when the hand isn't working, it can actually relax without the glove pulling the fingers in an uncomfortable direction. The palm of this general-utility glove is made of Amara, a synthetic material that mimics the resilience, grip, and comfort of suede while remaining machine-washable and resistant to water damage. High-wear areas are reinforced with tough DuraClad fabric, making these the toughest-grip gloves we've ever worn. The fingertips are also reinforced, yet we had no problem with dexterous tasks like picking up coins. We also like the cut of the cuff on these gloves. It comes in tight to the wrist to prevent dirt or other materials from pouring in. Why so many other gloves have gaping cuff designs is a mystery. While the gloves themselves won't be damaged by water, they won't keep your hands dry for long if you're working in really wet conditions. But that can be said of most work gloves, and everything considered, Ironclad gloves are some of the toughest, most comfortable, and easiest-to-work-in gloves we've tried. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Size Large
• For abrasive applications
• DuraClad reinforced palm and fingertips
• Machine washable/ air dry

Reviews (35)

Don't Lose Your "FEEL"
These gloves fit tight to the skin while increasing your grip and providing some protection.The key here is to wear the right glove for the job.If I am handling something sharp, I'll wear something heavier than these.Perhaps the only flaw is in the labeling that these are Heavy Utility.

I've been using these as a general work glove for a year now and love the fact that I still have some "feel" with these.I plan on picking up the framer style for situations that require more finger dexterity.

Can't go without them!!!
My gloves (Ironclad IC-0300GRBYU-S) that I have had and used regularly since 2000, have grown legs and walked off!!!I can't believe it.After almost 5 years of use, they leave me!!!

So I am buying another pair just like them.I have used the gloves a lot and they stand up to to anything.Highly recommended.

Fits like a glove!
I was the first to try these gloves out now everyone in our crew uses them and now so does the loading dock/mail room. We don't do any really heavey construction so for us they work out well. Even the terry cloth on the top side of the thumb comes in handy to wipe the sweat from the brow. My first 2 pairs fit fine and were great. My 3rd pair had some glue on the inside holding down the thread which rubbed against my palm and was quite bothersome but it wore and before long I didn't even notice it. I have used these for minor construction to working on equipment with small screws. Even if your hands get soaking wet the gloves still fit well where a full leather glove has a tendacy to stretch and want to fall off. I am ordering 10 more pairs right now! ... Read more

Asin: B00004XOHB
Subjects:  1. Safety Equipment    2. Gloves    3. Work Wear    4. Clothing   

Porter-Cable CFFN250S 2-1/2" 16 Gauge Finish Nailer/Compressor Combo Pack
by Porter-Cable
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $590.00
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Editorial Review

Though Porter-Cable's compressor/nailer combo includes everything you need to get started--finish nailer, compressor, 25-foot/300 psi air hose (with ferrules on both ends), fittings, Teflon joint tape, finish nails, oil, wrenches, safety glasses, and manual--it's by no means a starter kit. These are excellent, top-quality tools: first-time buyers can't go wrong, and longtime professionals will like the value. The 16-gauge finish nailer packs plenty of power (oak trim? no problem--better yet, no predrilling, hammering, and setting) and shoots a wide range of nails from 3/4 to 2-1/2 inches that handle everything from crown molding installation to building fine furniture. The nailer also has all the performance features we like: easy top loading, an onboard depth adjustment that lets you adjust the countersink without fiddling with the compressor, an easy-release side hatch on the nosepiece for clearing jams, and an adjustable exhaust port that lets you direct the backfire where you want it.

The 2-horsepower compressor, with its 6-gallon tank, has plenty of reserve capacity so it doesn't cycle as often as other compressors. Plus, its oil-free design means less maintenance. The lightweight compressor, though a little noisy (but only a little), is easily transported (there's a nice hand slot on top). With a maximum draw of only 10 amps, this compressor is also much less likely to trip a breaker than other, higher-amp compressors, which saves you from having to tramp back and forth to the breaker box. What else? There's also a carrying case for the nailer: no-nonsense and plastic, but certainly protective. Hands down, though, the real kicker here is the savings--compared to what you'd spend buying everything in this package item by item, it's pretty hard to resist. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• 1 year limited warranty
• Professional nailer shoots 3/4" to 2-1/2" 16 gauge finish nails
• Nailer features cushion grip, depth of drive, piston catch, quick-release nosepiece, and directional exhaust
• Oil-free compressor produces 3.7 scfm at 40 psi and 2.7 scfm at 90 psi
• Complete kit with quick-connects, 25' 300 psi air hose, thread sealing tape, nailer case, and wrenches

Reviews (5)

A nice tidy package!
I'm glad I didn't buy the Porter-Cable 18 gage brad nailer kit from Home Depot.

Instead, I spent the additional $$$ at The Building Box in Mississauga, Ontario for this well-rounded kit to install our primed MDF 4-1/2" crown moulding project this Spring.This kit cost me $$$ plus 15% taxes.I guess to keep the price low, Porter-Cable outfitted this kit with their 135 psi pancake compressor, rather than their 150 psi compressor which is sold with their 18 gage brad nailer kit.

The positives of the kit are;

1)The 17 piece accessory kit with the pistol grip blower,
2)The gun has a balanced and quality feel,
3)Easy to load gun,
4)Easy to clear jammed nails,
5)Shorter and more streamlined design of gun,
6)Enough power to countersink a 2-1/2" nail into red oak,
7)Portable and reasonably light-weight compressor,
8)Very good sight line of nailing surface,
9)Value purchase.

The negatives of this kit are;

1)Noisy compressor,
2)Gun does not warn user when it runs out of nails,
3)Should have provided 2-1/2" nails, rather than the 2" nails,
4)Compressor's auto on/off lever can dislodge from the switch assembly when the lever is pushed/pulled at the wrong angle,
5)Must order the free black coloured trigger separately,
6)The gun will at the odd time spall the MDF moulding surface at the nail's point of entry (which means more caulking).

The little Engine that could.
Here's the deal ...

Do you want a small, safe, easy to use, out of the box compressor / finisher kit.Do you plan on spending the [money] it would cost to piece meal this deal together?Drop the [money] and pick one of these up.

Setup - 5 stars
Ease of use - 5 stars
Noise - 3 Stars
Standard Equipment - 5 stars
Nailing in 20 minutes from opening the box - 5 stars

In a nutshell, if your a homowner with a gift for home improvement, you'll use this unit.Fill up your car tires, the kids bikes, blow out the garage, and of course nailing stuff to the wall...

I'm puting in a harwood floor this weekend and It'll go in like cake.Tested it out on some 1/4 round ... no splitting.goes straight through a 2x4 no problem.Noisy?Stick the compressor outside and use the 25 foot cord to maneuver around.It's the icing on the cake.Right up there with the table saw and the 12 inch Dewalt miter saw ...

Save your shopping time for fishing lures and just get this.

Great Value
Purchased [online]. The compressor is light enough to move easily, but stays in place unless the floor has some kind of gloss finish.The nailer is light-wieght, easy to hold overhead, the exhaust duct is easy to direct and the nail depth is simple and stays in place.The DeWalt guns are nicer (more substantial feeling and heavier guage nails), but a DeWalt 15g costs as much as the whole PC kit.Trigger trip point fluctuates a little, and it's pretty easy to double nail a spot if you pull too slowly.But other than that it's a wonderful tool and a great value. ... Read more

Asin: B00006L9PN

Porter-Cable 9984CS19.2-Volt GTF Cordless Drill/Driver/Circular Saw Combo Kit
by Porter-Cable
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware (01 November, 2002)
list price: $717.68 -- our price: $359.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Imagine the feel of 470 inch-pounds of torque in your hand. That's what this awesome drill/driver delivers in the lock-up position, powered by a 19.2-volt battery. Because of the two-speed gearbox, you've got drill speed ranges of 0 to 500 rpm and 0 to 1,500 rpm. Its 1/2-inch chuck is keyless, and the 20-position clutch takes care of drilling into all kinds of material. Porter-Cable's drills are among the best on the market; you'll never regret a P-C purchase. But here's one more reason to go with this model if you're in the market for a cordless drill/driver: the interchangeable Grip-to-Fit handle inserts. Having grappled with tool handles that were too big to control, we think this system is a great idea. There are manly sized grips included, of course, but for the woman woodworker or cabinetmaker, welcome to a delight--small grips! The Saw Boss 6-inch circular saw is powered by the same workhorse 19.2-volt battery--you'll need a break long before your battery will. And at 2,600 rpm, the premium 6-inch thin-kerf, carbide-tipped blade will have you making 100 crosscuts on two-by-fours on a single charge, so you may even be done before you need that break. This package also gets you two batteries, a charger, a bit, side handles for hammer drill use, and a case. You just can't go wrong. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 1-year warranty/30 day performance certificate
• 19.2 Volt, 2.4 Amp-hour batteries provide outstanding run time
• Saw cuts 2A lumber in one pass
• 22 position adjustable clutch
• Grip-to-Fit Adjustable Soft Grip System with three removable grip inserts

Reviews (8)

I agree with other bad reviews
I bought the 19.2 saw/drill combo and it was a total waste of money. The tools themselves are well built and sturdy but the batteries are complete garbage.I used the 2 batteries for maybe a total of 20 hours and one battery is already defective and you get about 5 cuts out of the saw before the battery dies!I can't even use this saw.When you use the drill the battery holds up better but who cares, I am a fencing contractor and thought it would be great to have a cordless saw to cut fence boards without dragging a cord and heavy saw out on the site, with this kit I still have to, if I do a small repair it might be useful if I don't need to cut more than 5 boards. Until they replace this 19.2 battery DO NOT waste your money.

Don't waste your money...
I bought the driver and saw kit and the hammer drill kit. In the first year I replaced the drill/drivers three times...while under warranty. The saw worked well and the flashlight was the best part of this kit. Now it is a couple years old and the batteries are dead and at $90 each I am not replacing them. They were not used that much either...as the tools were broken half the time! I bought Hitachi this time with a five year warranty. I wasted $600 on the Porter Cable junk. Some sharp lawyer ought to file a class action lawsuit on this tool.

A GIANT STUMBLES!!!
Bob Duren, NW Florida
First I am a die hard Porter Cable fan, they are the best hands down.I own about everything they make. I salute them for having an innovative approach to new battery technology but this "tower cell technology" or 19.2 volt network line is junk.They discharge too quickly and one of the two batteries included with this combo set is basically dying according to the charger diagnostics.I bought a new 19.2 battery and it also quickly discharging.I have requested two new batteries from porter-cable and will see if they stand behind their product as usual.I am a sub contractor and must mention they see serious use.All my other porter-cable tools are outstanding and I have NOT had to replace one over the years of use.This battery -19.2volt is a lemon.The saw and drill are excellent though.Wait until they correct the battery problem before buying this excellent combo.Meanwhile buy from another manufacturer.Caveat de emptor ... Read more

Asin: B00006S7CS
Subjects:  1. Porter-Cable    2. (Portercable)    3. Cordless Tools    4. Combo Packs    5. (Volt)    6. (V)   

Bucket Boss Brand 55033 Builder's Rig
by Bucket Boss
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $53.95 -- our price: $24.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Built by the company that perfected the bucket tool organizer, the Builder's Rig from Bucket Boss is a well-crafted and well-designed tool belt sporting deep reversed-taper pockets. The well-padded belt features a quick-release buckle and a solid spine that won't stretch under loads like some belts. The smaller pockets have plenty of room for wrenches, pliers, utility knife, angle square, hand plane, pens, and pencils. There's also a tape measure pouch and a sturdy hammer loop. You could certainly spend a lot more for a tool belt--and considering you wear the thing day in and day out, it might even seem worth it--but, thanks to Bucket Boss, you don't have to. This is a solid, all-purpose tool belt at a reasonable price. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Constructed of durable Anso-tex nylon
• Reversed taper pockets
• Padded belt fits 28- to 52-inch waists
• Pleated pockets hold nails securely
• Removable pouches

Reviews (9)

Very nice, better after time
This product is nice because of its adaptability.You only need to lug around what you need and not a bunch of empty flapping pockets.It is also nice to be able to vary the position of the pouches and hammer.The belt is nice and comfortable, with good but not exessive padding and the material is practically indestructable and wearproof.It doesnt get easily soaked with water or sweat either, which is nice.Of course, when brand new the belt is a bit stiff, but it wears in quickly and hangs very comfortably.

Comfortable, flexable tool belt.
For years, I'd been using a standard stitched leather tool belt, which was adequate to get jobs done, but left me in need of either more of less storage at times for different types of tools.With the pockets stitched in place, there was no flexability to move them around to a more comfortable position.

Enter the Bucket Boss tool belt, and it's a whole new story.The first thing I noticed about this belt is how comfortable the belt is.There's a lot of padding, which makes it easier to wear for hours and hours.However, the best feature is that the pockets, hammer loop, etc, are NOT stitched in place, and can be moved, removed, or repositioned at your discretion.Need only one pocket for a light job?Take the rest off!Don't like the hammer loop on the left?Move it to the right!And for an encore, I strongly advocate the Bucket Boss drill pocket and pneumatic nail sleeve.These can also be added to the tool belt, easily providing the most versatile, flexable solution for any professional or DIY home owner.

Kudos to the large pocket for the tape measure.It will fit even the largest of tapes.Likewise, the main pockets are cavernous, which permits storage of practically anything you need.The metal hammer loop is infinitely better than a leather loop (what I'm used to).

Bucket Boss has a big-time winner on their hands with this item.5 stars all the way!

Builders rig is awkward
I am a carpenter, and have been for sixteen years. I have tried many different bag setups over the years, from front pouches, which I find convienient but very hot on my legs and dificult to walk with while wearing, to my favorite, two seperate bags sitting on the outside of my hips. The Builders rig bags are way too short, so they sit up at an awkward hight and the tool pouches on the inside of the big pouches get jambed up with fasteners. The entire set up is very awkward. Not what you want to deal with at work. ... Read more

Asin: B00002243E
Subjects:  1. Tool Storage    2. Tool Belts    3. (Toolbelts)    4. Work Wear    5. Tools   

Dremel 3956-02 Variable Speed MultiPro Super Kit With 77-Piece Accessory Kit
by Dremel
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $145.06 -- our price: $74.95
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

While there are a number of rotary tools on the market made by a host of different manufacturers, the Dremel Moto Tool is the one they all strive to copy. Dremel's MultiPro variable-speed model is great for a huge range of projects, from home improvement tasks to hobbies and crafting. It has a continuously adjustable speed range from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, which allows the user to effectively work with materials as soft as balsa wood and as hard as ceramics. The flexible shaft that comes with this model is great for working in tight spots many rotary tools can't touch. The kit also comes with an assortment of accessories and a handy carrying case. Others may copy it, but Dremel has been making rotary tools so long they've come close to perfecting the idea. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Variable speed, from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm
• Quick-change collet
• Flexible shaft attachment, 77 bits, and two clamps
• 5-year warranty

Reviews (23)

I love my dremel
After more than 10 years of heavy use (maybe abuse) my Dremel 395
finally died last night.I can't get a new one fast enough, but I thought I might take the chance get a newer model.Alot could have changed in ten years, but after reading the reviews of the newer 395D and 400 models it sounds they would never stand up to the way I use my Dremel.So I think I'll be getting another trusty 395.

Great Tool & Value
Wanted one of these since was a kid.Finally (at 40) bought one and cant figure how I used to do projects without one.Anyone considering the kit without the flex shaft should reconsider.The flex shaft makes this the most versatile tool I own.

VERY VERSITILE....
I recieved this tool as a christmas gift in 2003. I make decorative boxes of all types and thought it would be handy for sanding tight radius, especially inside the box cavity. It does this duty extremely well, I am able to effectively remove all saw marks in those real tight area's and achieve a nicer finished product. What did surprise me was how many other task's I can use this little powerhouse for. I find myself using it for carving contours on the outside of the boxes a lot, with the variable speed you can maintain control easily, following the grain pattern, no matter how wild it may be. Then using one of the fine pointed stones, I can undercut the contour and polish it out, leaving a real head scratcher of a detail not usually found in decorative boxes. I use it to end cut drawer handles that are too small to chop with a saw, and to trim "keys" on mitered corners. Every time I am trying to think of a way to accomplish some wild (dumb?) way to accomplish something with wood I end up reaching for the dremel. With the flexi shaft, vari speed and "pencil" end it is so easy to control, that you can let your imagination get the best of you and still accomplish the finish you are looking for. Every one know's the common capabilities of this little tool, cutting, carving, sanding, grinding, etc, etc, but there are more.
I have had and used this tool for a year now and have had zero problems with it. I too wish I could find some finer sanding tubes, up to 220 would be nice, but I have made some using a worn out tube, 220 paper and super glue. Not a glamorous looking device but it works. When using the stones to polish wood they do clog up, just touch them to a rubber sanding wheel cleaner and they clean right up. I made blocks to hold all the differant attachments, and the case sits in one of the bins under my worktable. I am very happy with this tool and would recommend it to anyone for light, tight work. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JSPB
Subjects:  1. Dremel    2. (Dremmel)    3. Rotary Tools