Editorial Review

Hang new kitchen cabinets, tile the bathroom wall, install a border in the baby's room, add shelving to your home office--the Black & Decker BullsEye laser line generator and stud finder is the tool for the job. In fact, the BullsEye is two tools in one. The built-in stud finder works at depths up to 3/4 inches and provides both an LED and alarm indicator to signal when you've reached the edge of a stud. Once you locate the studs in the wall you're working with, you can then hang the BullsEye at the appropriate height using either the included drywall pushpin (for drywall surfaces) or the keyhole insert with a standard screw or nail (for all other surfaces). Activate the self-leveling laser lines, and the built-in pendulum levels the unit automatically. Depending on the light conditions in your work area, the laser lights should be visible up to 10 feet in either direction. No more chalk lines or straight edges. Just a clean, accurate guide for where to place your fasteners. The included target cones are effective up to 50 feet in either direction of the unit, providing an overall work surface of up to 100 feet in length. The BullsEye works best indoors and is intended for the home enthusiast. Professionals will likely want something a bit more versatile (the BullsEye works only on a true horizontal axis, so it can't determine plumb or set a straight line at any other angle).--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Target cones enhance visibility of light at long distances
• Laser line automatically levels
• Stud finder detects studs through walls up to 3/4-inch thick
• Rubber overmold provides comfort and grip when handheld
• Hanging pin fastens unit to wall for hands-free convenience

Reviews (25)

How did we live without this?
This tool is WONDERFUL.It's the best stud-finder we've ever used.It actually is accurate!I just used the laser level to hang borders in three rooms, and the job went a whole lot faster and smoother than I anticipated.Worth the investment!

Handy, but not super accurate
This is a really good product idea, but unfortunately mine didn't live up to expectations. My laser level is about an inch out of level over 10 feet. That's probably within building specs, but I figured a product packing a laserbeam would be a lot more accurate.

I have some walls that are 20 feet long. I'd hoped to put this level on the wall and hang a bunch of pictures along a level line, but I can see the few inches of error when I look for it, and that'd drive me nuts.

I only use it for jobs that my spirit level can't span, but that are still under about 10 feet. Anything bigger and I get the chalk line out.

Great Tool
I love this tool. We built a new house and I used it for hanging curtain rods, verticla blinds, pictures and shelves. Our wall decorations look organized and very stylish. I like the fact that you can mark on the adjacent wall.

We have these shelves for my kids room that are beautiful but are a total nightmare to hang. It took me 3 tries at our previous house to hang them because there is no room for variance. I hung them in 1 try using this tool.

I have read other reviews where people complain about the holes left when hanging the device and it's nonsense. It really is a pin sized hole.

This is the best tool I have purchsed in 10 years because it saves me so much time when doing projects. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Measuring & Layout Tools    4. Line Lasers    5. Scanners    6. (Stud Finders)    7. (Studfinders)    8. (Stud Sensors)    9. (Stud Sensers)   

Editorial Review

The Double Action DustBuster cordless vac offers all the extras of previous DustBusters, but with more oomph per feature. The exclusive Double Action DustBuster filter now lasts three times longer, the 13.6-ounce bowl holds 70 percent more dirt and debris, and the unit comes with a crevice tool for reaching into narrow spaces and an upholstery brush for gathering dirt and hair. The extra tools are stored conveniently onboard, making it a whole lot more difficult to lose them in the closet. Like DustBusters of the past, this one charges in a wall-mounted base for grab-and-go convenience. Your dirt won't stand a fighting chance. --Rivers Janssen ... Read more

Features

• Onboard crevice tool and firm brush
• Mountable recharging base
• Extra-large, easy-empty bowl
• Long-lasting filter
• Exclusive filter lasts three times longer than previous filters
• 13.6-ounce bowl holds 70 percent more dirt and debris
• Charges in wall-mounted base for convenience
• Crevice tool and upholstery brush included
• Tools stored onboard for convenient use

Reviews (19)

stinks
batteries.this is a great product killed by now having internal batteries.versapak version was great, but this "next generation" model just doesn't hack it.you can take my word on it.

Junk, not made to last!
My Dustbuster lasted a whole two years, but the last year it would only work for 3-4 minutes before the charge ran out.I found myself running like a maniac to quickly clean up a mess before the battery ran down.It also has low suction, so heavier things like sand don't get sucked up completely.This is one of several Black & Decker appliances I have been dissappointed with in the last few years.From the product lifespan, to the lack of customer service - they aren't the same company my parents loved.My mother had one of the earliest dustbusters which lasted 10 years, and charged like a champ.Oh well.

Instead, I recommend the Euro-Pro shark.I have had one for a while now, and love it.It has a very long cord, it's lightweight, and it has enough suction to pick up small children and pets!It cost a little more than the Black & Decker Dustbuster, and outperforms it completely.And if you can't rely on your hand vaccuum, then the price is irrelevant.

It's *NOT* The Batteries...
I too owned this particular model, and by pure chance, so did my neighbour.Mine stopped working after 6 months, in which I followed the directions and kept the unit clean.My neighbour's stopped working after 8 months.Instead of throwing them away, (there were no service centres nearby, and B&D's shipping charges were insane) I took my tester out to see where the trouble might lie.Much to my surprise, there was no power reaching the charging base of the Dustbuster, so I immediately focused my attention on the charging unit.I separated the wires from the charging base and put the tester to work. Sure enough, there was no power coming out of the charger! The verdict?It wasn't the BATTERIES after all, it was a defective charger.(just like the other reviewer said).

I did some more research on this, and found that there were several Dustbusters made (maybe hundreds?) that seem to have had faulty chargers.Why B&D never issued a national recall remains a mystery, but it makes perfect sense that maybe they didn't know about this issue?If they did, then they looked the other way, hoping that the problem wasn't too widespread. I remember the salesman at Sears saying that quite a few of these models came back for the exact same reason. (Dustbusters in Canada have a 2yr warranty) I think there was a quality control issue at their plant in China, and interestingly enough, the newer Dustbusters have a different charger on them.We shall see if this problem has been resolved, as I've just purchased another one (model CHV9600-see my review) and will take note of how long that one lasts me.My first Dustbuster purchased in 1990 lasted 8 years, and all models after that have given me trouble! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vacuums    2. Black & Decker    3. (Black and Decker)    4. Vacuum Cleaners    5. Handheld Vacuums    6. Floor Care    7. Hand Vacs    8. (Vaccums)    9. (Vacumes)    10. (Vacums)    11. Cordless Tools    12. (Volt)    13. (V)   

Editorial Review

We can't think of anything we'd want to add to this little hummer. It's incredible what B&D has engineered into this system (we don't think it's fair to call it a "screwdriver"). The 5-foot tape measure fits on board, or you can remove it for separate use. Dual speed range lets you drill holes at high speed and drive screws at the slower speed. A 23-position clutch, just like what's on the big boys, will keep you from stripping your screws. But get this: Unlike conventional cordless screwdrivers and regular power drills, this tool's handle easily locks in three positions for tight areas and awkward spots. Genius! And just like the "real" drills, this one's got an accessible forward/reverse rocker switch for backing screws out, too. Here's something, though, that the big-boy drill makers should pick up: It's got on integrated light so you can always see your work surface clearly. For the money, we haven't seen anything like it. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• On-board bit storage conveniently holds a 1/16" pilot bit and double-ended screwdriving bit
• 6-volt drill and screwdriver, tape measure, light, and more in one convenient cordless tool
• 2-speed gear box gives you a low speed for screwdriving and high speed for drilling
• 3-position pivoting action for maximum flexibility and versatility in tight areas
• Integrated light with separate on/off switch illuminates dark work areas

Reviews (10)

Form plus function: Works as good as it looks
The benefits of cordless power tools are obvious, but who says you need to pay hundreds of dollars to get the job done if you live in an apartment and don't have a contractor's license?

For $25, this is a super addition to any toolbox -- or kitchen cabinet. This is a great gift idea for dad -- or mom, for that matter.

Here's why:

* Quick-release collar allows you to pop in a screw or drill bit in a flash. A nice, tight grip.
* Multiple forward or reverse speeds at the click of a button. Torque control on the collar is easy to adjust and visual icons make it easy to figure out which one is best depending on whether you're using a screw or drill bit. Sweet.
* From 3-6 hours of operation on a single charge. Because it can take about six hours to re-charge, it's a good idea to leave this plugged into an outlet in the kitchen, bathroom or garage (but not longer than 3-4 weeks without use to avoid reduction in battery life).
* Ability to pivot the position of the handle or angle is big plus and great way to avoid carpel tunnel pain.
* The LED light, built-in removable tape measure and bit holder on the handle are fluff, but add to the coolness factor.
* Surprisingly light weight for it's rather large size.

So far no complaints. Price, form and function add up to a solid 5-star rating. You simply can't go wrong here.

a question...
...it seems an excellent work tool!... but does it work at 220V AC? I would love to buy it... tell me about this please...

Fantastic product!
This is one of those products where you say "Cool" at first glance.Then when you use it, it just gets better.Not only is this a nice reversible cordless drill (for small jobs), but it has the flexible handle...and a handy place to hold the extra bits, and the built in tape measure!Now, it will never replace your 3 horsepower Sears Craftsman bad-boy for the big jobs (i.e. building a house), but the Pivot Plus is definitely handy around the house! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. (Volt)    5. (V)    6. In-Line Screwdrivers   

Editorial Review

Remember when the DustBuster first came out? Erase that memory. This baby is generations beyond that. You get more run time and more power than you would expect from a cordless vacuum, and here's a great improvement: B&D has increased the capacity by 70 percent. That's a lot of dust and grunge. Extra tools snap right onto the vacuum, ready at hand. Because it comes with two VersaPak batteries, you can keep one on charge while the other is in use and never be without your DustBuster. It's light, powerful, and cleans up small messes in a snap. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Exclusive filter lasts three times longer
• 70% increase in bowl capaacity
• Powered by VersaPak Interchangeable Battery System
• 2 VersaPak batteries, caddy, crevice tool, firm brush, charger and filter set

Reviews (13)

Fixing the recharging problem with B&D DustBuster
I/ve fixed our problem with the DustBuster not holding a charge and not re-charging as follows: 1) Push release button and remove motor housing from vacuum 2) Gently remove the motor housing cover plate with a small flat bladed screwdriver 3) Remove fourscrews (two on outside and two on inside) with a long, small bladed phillips screwdriver (note how on/off switch and release button fits before separating housing 4) Turn switch on and let rotor run completely down...rotor will stop 5)Clean all copper with a Q tip and rubbing alcohol (move the switch back and forth to clean under it) Alclhol will self dry 6)Using a regular finger nail file, gently file contact points on motor and then on charging unit (you'll have to depress and hold charging unit contacts with your small screwdriver to make good contact)7) re-assemble the unit and charge overnight.You'll be amazed!!!After doing this, don't store the vac in the charger full time (it decreases battery power just like on any rechargeable appliance; and, let the battery completely run down about once a month then put it in the charger overnight. GGOD LUCK!

Fixing the recharging problem with B&D DustBuster
I/ve fixed our problem with the DustBuster not holding a charge and not re-charging as follows: 1) Push release button and remove motor housing from vacuum 2) Gently remove the motor housing cover plate with a small flat bladed screwdriver 3) Remove fourscrews (two on outside and two on inside) with a long, small bladed phillips screwdriver (note how on/off switch and release button fits before separating housing 4) Turn switch on and let rotor run completely down...rotor will stop 5)Clean all copper with a Q tip and rubbing alcohol (move the switch back and forth to clean under it) Alclhol will self dry 6)Using a regular finger nail file, gently file contact points on motor and then on charging unit (you'll have to depress and hold charging unit contacts with your small screwdriver to make good contact)7) re-assemble the unit and charge overnight.You'll be amazed!!!After doing this, don't store the vac in the charger full time (it decreases battery power just like on any rechargeable appliance; and, let the battery completely run down about once a month then put it in the charger overnight. GGOD LUCK!

Can be bought cheaper at homedepot.com
Home Depot price: 39.97
Shipping: 4.91
Total: 44.88

You might be able to get free shipping, I didn't look into it... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Camping Accessories   

Editorial Review

Black & Decker’s VersaPak tools are great for the homeowner, and to keep them running, you’ll want some spare batteries. Some advantages to these include their freedom from "memory," which keeps you from getting a full recharge and the fact that you’ll get at least 300 full recharges on each battery. They’ll power all the 3.6-volt VersaPak tools, including the ScumBuster and screwdrivers. Of course, once you buy a VersaPak tool, you don’t have a choice of batteries, but we’ve found these to be reliable and well able to power the 3.6-volt VersaPak line. The charger has a light that lets you know you’ve inserted the batteries for a charge, and three hours later, they’re ready to go. Our only suggestion: We’d like to see Black & Decker revamp the charger to let us know when the batteries are fully charged. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Interchangeable batteries work with all VersaPak products
• Batteries be recharged over 300 times and has no memory
• Charger recharges batteries in 3 hours
• Two year home use warranty

Reviews (15)

BUM BATTERIES
THIS IS A GOOD LITTEL DRIVER.BATTERIES ARE NOT WORTH THE POWDER TO BLOW THEM UP.WHY WOULD B&D TAKE A GOOD IDEA AND SCREW IT UP WITH CHEAP OUTSOURCEDBATTERIES?EVER HEAR OF NICKEL HYDRIDE? I LEFT MINE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NO ONE WOULD PICK IT UP.

Same problems with batteries and charger
B&D's claims for the batteries are just not true.I have had the same problems with very short battery life and intermittent charger described in other reviews.I have gone through several sets of gold batteries (don't even try the cheaper ones!).

And now, to make matters worse, you can't buy replacements locally anymore (they have been replaced by other tools with different batteries) and have to scour the internet trying to keep my tools working.

I will be replacing my tools very soon, I'm sure.The only reason I give 2 stars instead of one is that the tools do work pretty well when you can get a new battery in them.

bad batteries
great idea - lots of different tools all use same rechargeable batteries.BUT these batteries die in <1 year.I have a whole set of tools that use these, but now my choice is: spend $60/yr on batteries, or get a new set of tools that will last longer!Pretty easy decision at this point... considering I already have a great Craftsman drill and there are other tools that use the same batteries.
BE WARNED - if you buy these you will be buying them forever.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. Battery Packs    5. 3.6 Volt    6. (3.6V)    7. (3.6Volt)    8. (V)   

Editorial Review

Black & Decker has taken five popular home workshop tools and put them together into one compact, cordless unit in the Black & Decker 14.4-volt cordless multi-tool kit. The 14.4-volt model offers five interchangeable, locking heads that provide drill/driver, circular saw, jig saw, router and sander/polisher features. While not as powerful or feature-laden as most stand-alones, the multi-tool provides an excellent starting point or addition to a home enthusiast's arsenal. The drill head operates at variable speeds of 0-700 rpm. A 24-position clutch provides up to 115 in./lbs. of torque. And a 3/8-inch keyless chuck makes bit changes easy. The 3-3/8 inch circular saw features a 20-tooth carbide tipped blade and operates at 0-1,100 rpm. A spindle lock allows quick blade changes, while a thin kerf minimizes waste. The jigsaw features Black & Decker's exclusive, tool-free QuickClamp blade change system. A see-through bezel offers a cleaner view of the cut line, while a blade support roller keeps the blade straight for an accurate finish. The router features a 1/4-inch collet and spindle lock. Good visibility, micro-depth adjustments and an operating speed of 0-8,000 rpm make it well-suited for small, high-speed project work. The sander/polisher is also versatile. It reaches into tight spaces, accepts Mouse attachments, and spins at 0-8,000 opm.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Detail sanding pad works in tight corners
• One tool with five attachments for drill/driving, sanding/polishing, cutting and decorative edging
• Drill/driver has 24-position clutch and keyless chuck
• Saw has 3-3/8 inch blade for cutting 1x material
• Router operates at 8,000 rpm for high-speed applications

Reviews (16)

Great for the occasional fixes around the house
LIKES
1) Great price. This use to be 99$ back then.
2) Multi tool. 5 tools in one! Thats like 20$ each tool.
3) Comes with spare battery and a nice bag.

DISLIKES
1) Not powerful enough for the router, circ saw
2) Circ Saw doesnt cut really deep
3) Router is really miniature
4) Batteries die fast w/ the router, circ saw
5) A little on the heavy side

Low power? No power!
Well, the jigsaw ain't great, but at leaset it works-just don't try to use it one handed. The ridiculous placement of the "safe start" button means you have to have both hands on the tool to use it. High vibration means jagged cuts despite a finishing blade. And no top control means "swervy" lines. Fine for most, but it bothered me. The sander drained BOTH batteries within minutes. It worked well for those minutes, though. And don't get me started on the drill! No power whatsoever. My wifes 9.6v Bosch out-drilled/out-drove this P.O.S. So, a $200 jigsaw that isn't very good. Yowza. I think I'll try Ryobi. I've heard good things.

Handy for the House
This kit is excellent for the house. I've used it many times for all sorts of stuff. I'm glad it doesn't take up too much space; you don't have to lug a different tool to a project...they are all right there. If you plan to use it for serious woodworking, I'd imagine that it wouldn't be too great in that the battery will drain somewhat quickly when using it as a jigsaw(but then again it comes with two batteries.) For a handy and sufficiently powerful household tool package, this is both effective and even fun. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Rotary Tools   

Editorial Review

Black & Decker’s VersaPak tools are great for the homeowner, and to keep them running, you’ll want some spare batteries. Some advantages to these include their freedom from "memory," which keeps you from getting a full recharge and the fact that you’ll get at least 300 full recharges on each battery. They’ll power all the 3.6-volt VersaPak tools, including the ScumBuster and screwdrivers. Of course, once you buy a VersaPak tool, you don’t have a choice of batteries, but we’ve found these to be reliable and well able to power the 3.6-volt VersaPak line.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Interchangeable batteries work with all VersaPak products
• No memory
• Can be recharged over 300 times
• Two year home use warranty

Reviews (4)

Low power for the replacement 3.6v I ordered
The new Versapak battery I recieved was weaker than the origional five year old battery I still had. One of the two origional batteries quit working and I ordered a new one. The new one delivered only about half the torque to my screw driver and did not last long even after overnight charge. Perhaps I could have just recieved a defective one. I like the B&D cordless driver and will try again to order another one.

Don't hold charge as long as expected
To those people that can not find batteries without the charger, I say you will need at least two chargers at all times. The batteries need to be in a constant state of charge while you are using the others. The shelf life of the charge is pitiful and the length of charged batteries is not anywhere near your project-required time.
On the positive side you can not find a better "versatile" cordless system and this has make it possible for me to do many projects tat would be clumsy if I needed a cord.

Versatile but weak
I've got a number of the Versapack tools including the drill, screwdriver, and mini-circular saw.For small jobs like putting some screws in or cutting thin pieces of wood, they're fine.Anything that will take more than a few minutes of use will require more batteries because they die so quickly.This line would have been a lot nicer if the batteries were more powerful.Also, it would be nice if the chargers told you when the batteries were fully charged. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. Battery Packs    5. 3.6 Volt    6. (3.6V)    7. (3.6Volt)    8. (V)   

Editorial Review

The Black & Decker PivotDriver two-position screwdriver is great either in the workshop or to have around home for projects that require quite a bit of screwdriving. This tool is super easy to use and locks in two positions--in-line or pistol-grip--for installing cabinet hardware or tightening screws, say, under a counter or in any other hard-to-reach place where you'd bang your knuckles with an ordinary screwdriver. Toggling between forward and reverse is easy with the rocker switch, while the automatic spindle lock allows you to manually start screws or finish them without stripping or overtightening. The narrow nosepiece also gives you added reach when installing hardware in tight spots.

The PivotDriver runs off the VersaPak battery system, which is interchangeable with all Black & Decker VersaPak products. The battery is easy to remove--just press the button near the bottom of the screwdriver. The 1.2 amp, 3.6-volt battery produces enough torque and run time for any basic household project. --Dori Anvinson ... Read more

Features

• Two-year home use warranty
• Handle locks in two positions: inline grip and pistol grip
• Rocker switch with forward and reverse
• Automatic spindle lock for greater control when starting and finishing screws
• Interchangeable battery system, works with all VersaPak products

Reviews (21)

A LIFESAVER!
You'll find a million uses for this cordless screwdriver which will save you hours of frustration putting up miniblinds (which is what I bought it for!), assembling furniture or just making repairs. Its low price for the amount of use it will get just makes it all the more valuable. This is a must-have for every house, car and boat. Also makes a great gift! This little gadget saved my sanity when I moved into my new home and had tons of curtain rods and blinds to install, as well as assembling my waterbed. Highly recommend!

A skeptic no more
At first I was reluctant to purchase a cordless screwdriver; I already owned a perfectly fine cordless drill which had served admirably as a driver for many years.When I finally broke down and bought the Black & Decker PivotDriver (for reasons I cannot explain), I was quite pleasantly surprised by how beautifully it worked, and by how much better suited it was to driving screws than my drill ever was.It quickly became one of my favorite tools.

I am unlikely to ever again use my cordless drill as a driver, and here is why: First, the PivotDriver is much lighter and smaller, making it effortless to hold and maneuver.Second, its handle can be locked into two different positions, unlike most drills, which have a fixed pistol-grip configuration.It's great being able to switch between the two positions instantly, as one or the other is frequently more comfortable or offers greater maneuverability. Third, the spindle automatically locks when the button is released, turning it into a conventional screw driver.This is useful for really tough screws, or those that require a gentle touch.Finally, both forward and reverse are conveniently located on the "trigger", which makes a lot of sense for a screw driver (but not for a drill).

I am also impressed by the amount of torque delivered by this small device.It can handle some really difficult screws.I recently installed about a dozen metal braces in my house (part of seismic retrofitting), each one requiring between 8 and 20 screws in some rather hard and difficult-to-reach wood.The PivotDriver made it almost trivial.Go ahead, ask me if I'm a fan of cordless screw drivers.

The PivotDriver uses a "VersaPak" 3.6 Volt rechargeable battery; the driver comes with a charger and one such battery.The battery that is included is silver, but you should know that it also comes in a gold version.The gold batteries are *much* better than the silver ones; they hold a charge longer and pack a little extra punch.(Love that torque!)These batteries (both silver and gold) can also be used in numerous other cordless tools offered by both Black & Decker and Sears (aka Craftsman).They are very light-weight and easy to pop in and out.They take up to six hours to charge, however.

At the risk of sounding sexist, allow me to offer some advice to the ladies.If you're looking for a great practical gift for hubby, look no further.It's true; for some mysterious reason guys really do love cordless screw drivers, and this one is a beaut.To really impress him, after he's opened it and thanked you profusely, casually say "I almost got you the ______ version, but I thought you would appreciate having at least 25 foot-pounds of torque."He'll see you in a whole new light.(You can fill in the blankwith any other brand name.)

Few things these days seem to be truly well designed, durable, and inexpensive.This little gem is all three.Enjoy.

Great electric screwdriver
The key to buying Black and Decker products (including this product and the dustbuster), is to make sure that your product uses the versa packs batteries.Versa Pack batteries make it easy to replace the batteries when they die.

This is a great screwdriver and has versa pack.What more need I say? ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. (Volt)    5. (V)    6. In-Line Screwdrivers   

Features

• Interchangeable battery works with all VersaPak products
• No memory
• Can be recharged over 300 times
• Two year home use warranty

Reviews (11)

Buy Versapak GOLD instead.
The silver version of these batteries just dont last.You will get 60% MORE life from the Gold batteries for a few dollars more.I have many B&D tools that run these batteries, including the "Snake Light"...the Silver will go dead with one days use, as compared to the Gold, which will last up to 5 full days of use.You can get these for the same price at Lowes and Home Cheapo. You'll pay tax of course, but it evens out after subtracting the cost of (not) shipping.

Gold batteries much better
I would highly suggest using the "Gold" batteries. Since purchasing my tools, I have recycled all the Silver batteries and use the Gold batteries exclusively. NiCd batteries are simply too much of a hassle. They have to be drained regularly and simply don't have the capacity of NiMH ones. The NiMH batteries provide reasonably good power and performance. The only drawback is the higher rate of self discharge when sitting idle.

NiCd Batteries ALL Have Memory - Use NiMH Instead
My advice to all of you who made negative comments about the standard VP-100 Versapak "Silver" battery is to replace it with the VP-110 Versapak "Gold" battery. It costs about 30% more than the Sliver but offers 60% more energy (watts x time) and little or no memory effect. Be sure to recycle your old Silver batteries. They contain very toxic chemicals, such as cadmium, which are best kept out of landfills. Black & Decker and Sears have even prepaid the recylcing costs. Just figure the cost of a separate Gold battery into the cost of the tool, at least until manufacturers stop shipping the Silver Versapaks altogether. Read on for the thinking behind this advice.

The Versapak Silver battery, which comes with nearly all Versapak-powered B&D as well as similar Sears Craftsman products, have "battery memory" despite what the creative folks who write the product listings at Amazon and other websites want you to believe. As talented as these folks are, they have not and cannot repeal the laws of battery chemistry. All batteries based on the nickel-cadmium (NiCd) design have memory which means they stop accepting a full charge if they are continually recharged before being fully discharged. Think of it as that "always full feeling" you get if you do a lot of snacking around the house.

The newer battery chemistry is nickel-metal hydride or NiMH. Although not as new as the lithium ion or the even newer lithium polymer batteries found in cell phones and laptop computers, the NiMH design delivers more energy and weighs significantly less than NiCd. The Versapak Gold version is said to offer 60% more battery life than the Versapak Silver version. Most importantly, NiMH batteries suffer little or no memory effect. That makes them useful and valuable even without the big improvement in tool running time.

NiCd batteries work perfectly well for those applications that drain the battery to its discharge voltage. For example, a construction worker will use a NiCd battery in a power drill until the drill motor won't turn. At that point the battery has been discharged to the point where the memory effect during recharge will be minimal or non-existent. He or she simply pops in a fully charged NiCd pack and drops fully discharged battery on the charger.

By the way, by "discharged" I do not mean zero battery voltage. Discharging a NiCd by taking it to zero volts, either by shorting out the terminals (a very dangerous idea) or by putting a high wattage resistor across it, will effectively destroy the battery. There are many NiCd conditioners around that properly discharge these batteries, but most consumers are too busy to use them on a regular basis. Now back to our story...

NiCd batteries are terrible in those applications where the particular cordless tool is used for a few minutes and then put back on its charger. For example, think of a Versapak-powered DustBuster or ScumBuster. Fortunately, the latter doesn't holster the tool on its charger, which means its battery is more likely to get discharged before being recharged. The ScumBuster also comes with a separate charger because of the shock danger of charging a typically wet tool in its holster.

The DustBuster, unfortunately, is charged in its holster. A quick pick up with the ol' `Buster and then back in the holster pretty much guarantees most owners will see the memory effect in as little as a few weeks. Performance will just get worse and worse until it will only run for a few minutes before it's dead again.

If you just can't bring yourself to recycle those old Silver Versapaks and go for the Gold, I suggest you don't plug in the DustBuster holder's wall wart. When its Versapaks are pretty much dead (as in discharged), put them in a separate charger. Leave them in there overnight. It takes about 15-18 hours to bring a Silver battery to full charge.

As I said at the outset, the better idea for the DustBuster or any other short use tool is to simply replace the Silver Versapaks with the Golds. Yes, it's a big hit for the DustBuster which probably didn't cost that much to begin with, but it will run for years just like it was brand new. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. Battery Packs    5. 3.6 Volt    6. (3.6V)    7. (3.6Volt)    8. (V)   

Editorial Review

The Black & Decker Workmate Project Center might just be the item you need to make your home shop complete. Its versatility makes it an especially ideal choice for those with limited shop floor space: use it as a workbench, a bench tool stand, a vise, or a sawhorse, then quickly break it down and store it out of the way. Because it's lightweight and portable, you can move it conveniently wherever it's needed. The one-handed vise clamp system, with its exclusive clutch design, provides quick and easy clamping. The Workmate also features an extra block to expand your work surface, four swivel pegs, and an adjustable front jaw that swings up for vertical clamping. Its legs fold under to provide the lower height and stability needed when you're using it as a base for bench tools, and its all-steel construction and rubber feet ensure a stable, strong work surface that supports up to 550 pounds. All in all, we were pretty impressed. With features like these, it's no wonder the Workmate is a popular choice for light-duty and home shop use. --Tim Block ... Read more

Features

• Two year home use warranty
• Includes insert to convert vise into a workbench
• Exclusive one handed clamp system
• Folds for storage
• Holds up to 550 lbs

Reviews (22)

Old Workmate vs New
I had an original workmate for almost 25 years. When I moved a few years ago I gave it to my son who had just purchased his first house. Now 5 years later I really miss that old workmate. So I decided to replace it and purchased a new WM425 from Home Depot. It promised to be everything the old one was and more. WRONG!! What a piece of crap compared to the original. It's built out of stamped metal instead of heavier gauge aluminum and is not at all easy to unfold. The worst feature is the vise action which is not as tight or precise as the original. The 2 handles are joined by a cheap light plastic perforated strap so that both sides tighten (sort of) at the same time. This eliminates the possibility of clamping pieces whose sides aren't parallel. So it's going back to HD and my son and I will be having joint custody of the old Workmate.

Shippingdisaster!
The one star applies until I get a chance to use it.Yes I read the other reviews but thought I would luck-out. I order 98% of the things I buy online and rarely, if ever, have I seen an item packaged so poorly with essentially no internal support, especially for an item of this weight.The nylon pivot nut on one side was broken.
So I'll tell you like the others have. Don't have it shipped and if you buy it in a store, insist that it be taken out of the box and thoroughly inspected for broken parts unless the box is pristine. Amazon got it to me in less than five days.Black & Blacker est. 7-10 working days for the part to arrive.
Addendum, the saga continues.
I received my part in a reasonable length of time (5days)although the right thing for them to do would have been to ship it to me overnight. Anyway I went down to install it. After removing the top bolt the front block between the table and frame fell into two pieces. I decided to check the other side and although still in one piece, it's cracked. I'm going to ask for another pivot nut on the chance that it's cracked too.I sure lucked-out, what a f$&*@$%^ nightmare.
I received the parts and assembled the bench. On opening anc closeing the vice I felt/heard a grinding noise only to noticed
the housing that the screw passes through (next to the crank) was bent. I could have disassembled the entire side and tried to pound it back to the ninety degree angle it should be.Fearing it might not work and voiding the "warranty" I called them. I was told it wasn't replaceable and that I would have to pay to ship it back to them.They must have thought I designed the packageing it came in. It wasn't Amazon but factory "packageing".
I emailed Amazon about the problem.They promptly replied that they had sent a replacement (Two-Day Delivery) no charge, I was amazed.I have 30 days to return the damaged one.Of course I keep it until I have the other one up-and-running, for parts should I need them.Amazon did the right thing and I won't hesatate to purchase from them again. Trust me I'll never buy another B&D product again. Hard to believe B&D and Dewalt are related.Well I received my second unit. When I saw the box I was shocked, it looked worse than the first.The carrier had even tried to repair the box with clear shipping tape. I open it and was surprised to find no damage.

Excellent product, but not designed to ship safely
The Workmate WM425 is an excellent movable work table, but Black & Decker has managed to make it very likely that you'll find it damaged upon opening if you buy one.

The problem is that the WM425 was designed to be shipped partly disassembled, but is now being shipped almost completely put together.There are plastic blocks that act as large nuts to receive the bolts that hold the bamboo plywood planks to the metal framework.The bottom part of each block has a narrow section that fits in a slot in the metal framework, and "wings" below the slot that push against the sides of the slot to resist the occasional upward force on the plank.In normal use these plastic wings don't have to withstand a lot of force because gravity is keeping the planks in place.When folded up and shipped in an unpadded cardboard carton, the frequent sideways forces from the truck starting and stopping will cause the heavy planks to rip the plastic wings off.Each of the two sliding planks in my WM425 arrived with a broken plastic block.

The instruction sheet that comes with the unit tells how to assemble the WM425 from separate parts.Since these parts are almost all already in place, the conflicting instructions are confusing.And Black & Decker seems to be in denial that the units are sent already assembled, because the customer service person proclaimed vigorously that the instructions matched the shipped units.I had to mail in the broken plastic blocks to get replacements; this took about three weeks.

---

Once you get a working WM425 you'll have a very nice folding work table with a couple of limitations.The table is fairly heavy, so folding and unfolding is a bit cumbersome.For twice-a-weekend frequency it's OK; you probably wouldn't want to fold the table up hourly.The second limitation is the clamping system, which slips after you apply moderate force.I haven't found anything that required more gripping force than I needed, yet.

I'm building a router table that uses the WM425 as a base.With the middle plank removed there's adequate clearance for even a large router, and the other two planks will clamp onto cleats on the underside of the removable table top to keep everything very stable.When I don't need the router table it'll pop off the WM425 and hang from a wall hook, and the WM425 will fold to free up garage space.

Summary: Very nice folding work table which will support heavy materials and clamp fairly large pieces for you to work on.But it's NOT RECOMMENDED for mail order. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Work Support    4. Workbenches    5. (Work Benches)    6. (Work Tables)   

Editorial Review

This battery-powered sprayer delivers a consistent 20 psi without any hand pumping, thanks to Black & Decker’s 7.2 volt VersaPack battery system. Big, rugged wheels take the strain off your back, allowing you to tote 3.5 gallons of liquid with ease, delivering insecticides, fungicides, sealers, etc. through a tough, six-foot hose and a choice of fan and cone nozzles. The unit comes with two batteries, so one can charge while the other’s in use. The curved, ergonomic handle telescopes from 35 to 37 inches for comfort. The tank detaches easily for cleaning, and the wand clips to the handle for neat storage. Lots of nice innovations to make chores easier.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Introduces a new way to spray fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, sealants, and more
• 7.2-volt rechargeable power pump provides a consistent 20 psi, full-pressured spray
• Pumps up to 9 gallons of solution per charge
• High density, translucent, polyethylene tank has 3-gallon tank capacity
• 30 day no-risk satisfaction guarantee and full two-year warranty

Reviews (19)

Battery Charge Doesn't Last Long
This sprayer performed great while the batteries were charged. The pressure was even and the tip made a nice, fine spray. The trouble is no matter how long I charged the batteries, they would go dead after spraying only about 1.5 gallons of liquid -- they couldn't even empty one tank-full of liquid. This caused big problems for the project I was working on. The product description says that it can spray "up to" 9 gallons of liquid on a single battery charge. Either my unit has some battery problems or B&D is wildly exagerating. ...

VP450 Sprayer
Works find on level ground. If ground isn't level unit will turn over. Wheel base needs to be wider to correct problem.

A huge time saver!
I've used this sprayer twice and I think it is great. I've cut my weed spraying time from over two hours to about an hour. I also think I am using less weed killer than I did with my old tank sprayer. I have about 1/2 acre of avocado trees and need to spray the weeds under them frequently. I didn't realize how much time I spent pumping my old tank sprayer and how slowly it sprayed as the pressure dropped. The constant 20psi of this sprayer really saves a huge amount of time. I've never run the batteries down and use the entire tank contents. The only improvement I would like to see is larger wheels. I occassionally have to drag it over the rougher terrain of my grove and it also is easy to tip over. Even still, the current design is better than lugging my old tank sprayer around and much more efficient. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cordless Tools    2. Landscaping Tools    3. Hand Tools    4. Sprayers   

Editorial Review

Heat-efficient and designed for safety, this Black & Decker Heat Wave heater quickly takes the chill off basements, workshops, outbuildings, and mudrooms. A sturdy but lightweight little unit, the heater has two power settings--750 and 1500 watts--as well as a fan-only setting that blows cool air. A smooth-turning dial lets you adjust heat output or set the unit to Frost Watch so it kicks on automatically if temperatures drop below 40 degrees F. The Heat Wave features cool-touch housing and a large fold-down carrying handle. Two front-mounted roll-over bars keep the grille from touching the floor if the unit tips over. Other safety features include a tip-over switch, power cord protection, motion auto-off, a thermal fuse, an anti-electric shock device, and a PTC controller with manual reset in case of overheating. Power and caution lights let you monitor the heater at a glance. Intended for use on a floor, shelf, or tabletop, the heater is not suitable for use in damp or wet rooms. Measuring 10 by 15 by 8 inches, it comes with a one-year warranty. --Emily Bedard ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10 by 15 by 8 inches; 1-year warranty
• Space heater with 7-way safety features and adjustable thermostat
• 750- and 1500-watt power settings, plus Frost Watch and fan-only
• Cool-touch housing, motion auto-off, roll-over bars, and tip-over switch
• Also includes safety auto shut-off with PTC and thermal fuse

Reviews (3)

Absolutely bad.
Unless you sit right next to it, you do not feel any heat whatsoever. Returned it immediately.

Not up to the task
I purchased this unit as a supplemental heat source for a small bedroom. It was unable to warm the room and ran constantly because the heater was never able to reach the temperature necessary for the thermostat to shut it off. It only works if you sit close to it.

Disappointment
I saw this space heater and thought it would be perfect. The problem I have with it is that the heat only comes out of a 6 inch area at the top of the heater, but it has a grill that would make you believe that the heat would come out of the whole front of the unit. It does get very warm and has great safety features, but it doesn'tgive off enough heat to warm people sitting 2 feet from the unit. ... Read more

Editorial Review

While mowing the lawn may never be considered a recreational activity, this rear bag mower from Black & Decker makes the chore as close to fun as it will ever get. With its 24-volt battery, which delivers 5-horsepower gas equivalent at peak torque, this cordless electric mower represents the top of Black & Decker's line of lawn mowing products. During our field tests, this orange powerhouse stood out above other mowers for ease of use and performance. Its versatile operation allowed us to mulch, bag, or expel the debris from its 19-inch cutting path. Switching between the three methods was as easy as removing the catch bag and the mulch plug--easily performed tasks when the mower is not running.

The most obvious difference between the new generation of electric mowers and the heavier gas-powered mowers of yore is the start-up. The ease with which this mower starts is almost stupefying. Simply pull and hold the thin handle lever, then pull the ignition lever, and presto!--the engine is running. To minimize safety risks to young children, a removable safety key must be inserted prior to starting the mower.

Once started, this mower runs like a dream and is much quieter than older gas-powered models. In addition to the lack of noise, vibrations were also dampened by the cushioned handgrips, a feature that makes mowing a much more comfortable experience. Another innovation is the method by which the mower is raised and lowered. Where once it was necessary to adjust each wheel individually, the height of the mowing platform is now controlled by a single squeeze of a single lever, which allows for seven positions from 1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches. While this mower is much lighter than a gas mower, we did find that this Black & Decker cordless model, weighing in at 76 pounds, is heavier than its corded relatives.

The only disadvantage this machine seems to have is in the power department. While there were no serious problems during our field test, it was necessary to slow down or go back over thicker sections of grass in order to make a completely clean cut. This cordless model also requires a substantial charging time when first out of the box: the manufacturer suggests at least a 16-hour period initially in order to get peak performance and maximum run time. According to Black & Decker, the battery will be 70% energized with four hours of charging. When fully juiced, this mower can be expected to cut between 1/2 and 1/3 of an acre per charge. Though the charge is one aspect that needs to be considered when deciding whether to purchase a corded or a rechargeable mower, we found the added maneuverability of the cordless over the corded model far outweighs the inconvenience of charge times.

When you've finished mowing, the handles fold back, making it easier to store this mower in a tight garage or shed. It comes with a 30-day no-risk satisfaction guarantee and a manufacturer's full two-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• 30 day no-risk satisfaction guarantee and full two-year warranty
• Convertible mulcher/rear bagger
• Cuts up to 1/2-acre lots on one charge
• One touch height adjustment (1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches)
• Lifetime 19-inch 3-in-1 deck

Reviews (77)

Loved the Mower Until the Battery Died
I have had this mower for three seasons.Like all rechargeable products, the battery has worn out.I don't mind replacing batteries - it is just a fact of life.Unfortunately, Black & Decker has chosen to charge $100 for the new battery plus a small service charge to have it put in the unit.If anyone knows a less expensive replacement let me know.

So, essentially you have to pay the purchase price of this mower over again every 8 years.By that I mean you need a new battery every 2 years - or 4 batteries in 8 years for a total of over $400.Remember, my battery died on my third year mowing a 1/3 acre lot (in Minnesota, so a short summer followed by harsh winter).By last year the battery was nearly useless - two charges was necessary to do the whole yard even with short, dry grass (read:entire weekend of mowing).

One could also think of this as buying a new mower every 4-5 years, which is silly.Older gas mowers lasted 20+ years.New ones with good motors last just as long.A mower should be a minor investment of money, time, and energy.

One additional problem was dealing with wet or long grass - this is true even with a perfect battery.It is just a fact of life that everyone has a busy month now and then and can't mow any other time than when it is either wet or after the grass has gotten too long.A good gas mower just uses more gas but can take the job.This mower can't do the job.Even if you get the mower to cut the wet or long grass for a time, you'll run out of power before you are done and need to charge the thing back up to finish the job.

Oh, and this last summer I often found myself double-cutting the grass to get a clean cut.This is because the mower just wasn't delivering the same power to the blade (yes, I did replace the blade this spring).In other words, you can't just live with the lower power given off by a dying battery.

Two additional problems that exist with even a new battery - the rear bagger is fairly useless.Of course, I hate rear baggers, especially when you don't have a self-propelled unit.Ever drag around a heavy bag of grass on a hot day?Not fun.In addition, this mower is useless on leaves with or without the bag.It doesn't have the power to mulch them into the grass or bag them if you've grown addicted to that that tactic as a way to avoid raking.

Now, having said all that, I simply loved using this mower when it worked well.It is very quiet, not at all smelly, and very easy to use.I could literally mow in dress clothes.Don't laugh - sometimes you're in a hurry.

Now, if Black & Decker would lower the cost of the battery or better yet replace it with a Li-ion battery, I'd keep using the unit.As it is, right now I'm considering buying a gas mower.

Early thought - yes !
Received this recently, so I can't speak for the "long term" - but even a dummy (like me) was able to take it right out of the box and get excellent results at the start.So far at least, I definately prefer it over my old gas powered mower, every bit as powerful without the hassle.

Light hungry machine
Love it.It is light, easy to use and I am saving by doing it myself as opposed to using a lawn care service.The only two things I do not like about it is that it is somewhat awkward to remove and inset the bag and the hookup for the electrical power is very small and the hold tab for the power cord is so flimsy it breaks easily, otherwise no complaints. But performance is great so far. It does the job. One handle level adjustment is a breeze. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Landscaping Tools    2. Mowers    3. Cordless Mowers    4. (Lawn Mowers)    5. (Lawnmowers)    6. Electric Mowers   

Editorial Review

The Workmate 225 might be what's missing from your home shop. Its versatility makes it an especially ideal choice for those with limited shop floor space: Use it as a workbench, a bench tool stand, a vise, or a sawhorse; when the job's done, you can quickly break it down and store it out of the way. (Try that with a regular workbench!) Its portability is no small advantage: essentially, the Workmate lets you move your shop wherever you need it. The Workmate's legs fold under to provide the lower height and stability needed for use as a base for bench tools. Its all-steel construction and rubber feet ensure a stable, strong work surface that supports up to 450 pounds. And its independently adjustable jaws have two swivel pegs each, allowing you to hold almost anything. The Workmate 225 is Black & Decker's intro model. They also offer the Workmate 550, which is a little burlier, has a nice clamping device, and is more expensive. For light-duty, home shop use, though, the Workmate 225 is an excellent choice. --Tim Block ... Read more

Features

• Two year home use warranty
• Folds easily for storage and transport
• Exclusive clutch design makes clamping easy and allows for fine tuning
• Durable steel constructions holds up to 450 pounds
• Dual height--bench and sawhorse--for multiple uses

Reviews (14)

Don't own, but considered one
A quick look at the goods in a hardware store showed me all I needed to know. B&D has fooled me twice with expensive shoddy goods for which no replacement parts were available to the buyer. They will not get the chance to fool me thrice.

Wow...what a disappointment!!
I have always wanted one of these since they look so useful. When I got it, I was really disappointed. The metal edges are razor sharp...even the cheap plastic parts have sharp edges. Assembly instruction is poorly written with pictures so tiny that they are pretty much useless. Then when I tried to clamp a project (a 14" X 12" board), there is no way to get it clamped down securely. The adjustment options were either too big or too small to get all 4 clamps on it! I tried using only 2 clamps, but it was impossible to secure it, and I did not want to tighten it too much fearing the cheap plastic handle might break off. Do not look at this as hardware; it is not. The material of this product is very cheap...and it will not last if you treat it like a tool.

Great until I broke the worm gear follower
My father has had a workmate for years.It had provided about 5 years of faithful 'moderate' to 'light' duty service.It's a must for space starved garages or workshops, and is fantastic for clamping.One of its drawbacks is its unwieldy center of mass when it folded up and placed on its side.It has a tendency to want to tip over if bumped, and in a confined garage that can be a problem.Alas, about a month ago it fell over and broke the plastic worm gear follower.It is a shame that they selected a thermoset plastic for this part.Because of its lack of ductility when it hit the deck it shattered into a several pieces.At first pass for the designers to make a part of this complex geometry out of plastic was the obvious choice, however, a die casting of the same part would have been much better.(...) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Work Support    4. Workbenches    5. (Work Benches)    6. (Work Tables)   

Editorial Review

Black & Decker's 3.6-volt PowerDriver is perfect for assembling furniture, mounting shelving, changing hardware, or any project where turning a standard screwdriver would be a painstaking process. The rocker switch toggles easily between forward and reverse, and the automatic spindle lock allows you to manually start screws or finish them without stripping or overtightening. When installing hardware in hard-to-reach places, the narrow nosepiece gives you an extended reach. --Dori Anvinson ... Read more

Features

• Two year home use warranty
• Automatic spindle lock for greater control when starting and finishing screws
• Forward/reverse
• Narrow nose-piece for extended reach in tight places
• Runs at 180 rpm and delivers 40in./lbs. of torque

Reviews (18)

great for the average do-it-yourselfer
I got this for my spouse and he loved it.Its easy to use, runs as long as he needs for the minor projects and repairs he does.If you are a professional who'd use a tool like this, it won't last nearly as long as you'll need.The target audience should be the average John or Jane who really just wants to make the few times a screwdriver is needed a month less work so things get fixed in a timely fashion.

JUNK - Broke after using TWICE
I received this driver for Christmas, used it twice, and then heard a loud grinding sound.After taking off the drive head, I noticed that two metal posts securing plastic gears had sheared!

By comparison, my Skil driver is going on 10 years!

B&D is JUNK!

Useful, sort of.
I used to use a B&D cordless screwdriver, but gave it away when I found it often took as long, or longer to use this tool than using a manual screwdriver. Sure, it's faster when you have a LOT of screws or very long screws, but a cordless drill is faster still, and has the advantage of variable speed and more power. Using this screwdriver to drive long wood screws is an excercise in patience as you watch it sloooowly drive the screw in and then quit halfway as it runs out of power.

Cordless screwdrivers are cheaper than drills, true, but overall I think the classic 7.2volt Makita cordless drill is just about as compact, much more versatile, much more powerful, lasts much longer and will drive a lot more screws on a charge. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Black & Decker    2. (Black and Decker)    3. Cordless Tools    4. (Volt)    5. (V)    6. In-Line Screwdrivers   

Editorial Review

You'll get great results with this Black & Decker heavy-duty Edge Hog landscape edger, one of the easiest-to-use pieces of equipment we've come across. You'll be thrilled with how quickly you can get to work, as assembly takes only a few minutes. This is an electric model, so you'll need an extension cord and an electric outlet handy, but you won't have to deal with gas or oil. And it's so quiet you can edge at any time of day--even early Saturday mornings--without worrying about waking up the neighbors.

We found the Edge Hog has plenty of power in its 2-1/4-horsepower motor for both edging and trenching, and it's easy to switch from one to the other by simply raising or lowering the edge guide. The edger weighs only 12 pounds, which allows for easy transportation and great maneuverability around curved paths, but makes it more difficult to maintain a straight line when you're tackling a lawn that hasn't been edged in a while. If you're digging out quite a bit of dirt along with the edge you're creating, it takes some effort to keep the unit stable.

Undoing a screw toward the front of the edger and raising or lowering its leading wheel easily adjusts the depth of the edge groove you're making along with your edge. The unit can also be adjusted to fit the height of the user more comfortably by changing the angle on the guide handle. The blade requires only a pull of the trigger to start instantly and, unlike many gas models, stops as soon as the trigger is released---an important safety feature. ... Read more

Features

• 30 day no-risk satisfaction guarantee and full two-year warranty
• Exclusive pull up edge guide converts edger to landscape trencher
• 3-position blade depth adjustment for control of cut
• 2-1/4 hp high torque motor tackles tough overgrowth
• Adjustable handle

Reviews (34)

Excellent edger
If you don't want to deal with gas-powered edger, this is THE ONE.I used to have a gas-powered edger, it's just a hassle compared to an electric one.Excellent in trimming along flower beds. I know that long cords can be a hassle but smelling the exhaust of a gas-powered edger is even worse.Another thing is the motor is next to the blade, so the weight is on the ground, NOT on your shoulder!Very good edger!

Makes lawn maintenance easier!
This edger is a major time and muscle saver over the manual ones I've used, such as the Rittenhouse edging and trenching tool (ASIN: B0002ZQGZQ). I still use the manual Rittenhouse to start new edging projects, but this electric edger is a dream come true for ongoing maintenance.My yard needs re-edging about every 6 weeks, so the time and energy I've saved since getting it is significant.

Assembling this out of the box is a two minute job.It's solidly constructed and it's obvious that B&D paid a lot of attention to both ergonomics and safety.It's well balanced, has an adjustable handle, and sports a heavy-duty electrical connection that includes a cord minder and an oversized, umbrella-like plug.

You can use this in either trenching mode or edging mode. I prefer the hand tool I cited above for trenching, but use this to do the initial outline or layout for new projects.The reason I still use the manual tool for trenching projects is the electrical motor in the Edge Hog is pretty powerful and there are a lot of subsurface rocks in my area. I don't want to risk prematurely shortening the cutting blade's life, or - worse - causing injury or damage from flying rocks. This unit is that powerful.

Aside from the features mentioned above, the price/performanc