Editorial Review

Granted, if you're into home repair, you've got a 25-foot steel tape in your toolbox. But how many times have you grumbled at it when it didn't stay rigid from across the room? Tapes have their purpose, but for estimated measurements of up to 50 feet, the Laser Tape is the way to go. Just point, press "read", and the distance is displayed in feet and inches or metric. It's simple to use and would be perfect for the homeowner trying to calculate how many gallons of paint to buy, how much vinyl flooring to get or even how much fertilizer to buy, provided you've got walls round your yard to bounce the laser off. It is, we must say, a little finicky, and it works best on monochromatic sold surfaces, but once you get the hang of it, it's a handy little tool.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Calculates area and volume
• Measures using sonar from 2-feet to 50-feet
• Laser to target the point to which you want to measure
• Large LCD screen
• Converts feet to meters

Reviews (43)

handy as laser POINTER, absolutely useless as laser TAPE
...this is a good example of "you get what you pay for," I suppose.

This alleged "laser tape" actually uses a sound wave to take its measurement, the laser beam is there mainly for underhanded marketing purposes to mislead you into thinking that you're buying far more advanced technology than you're really getting.

Of course, sonar is notoriously unreliable for this sort of application, and therefore it is hardly surprising that it delivers kinda-sorta accurate rough measurements in all of maybe 3 out of 10 tries.All sorts of environmental factors can easily throw it off: the color, texture, and shape of the object you are pointing it at (flat 90 degree white walls seem to enjoy about 60% efficacy, the highest I ever got with it), exterior noise conditions, how much open space there is around you, etc.

Really the only thing this sonar tape really does well is serve as a bulky, clunky and noisy (it makes a clicking sound during operation, which I wish I could disable) laser pointer---the 9V battery does last a bit longer than the tiny little watch battery that most pen-size laser pointers use.

Thank God the home improvement warehouse I bought it at has a great return policy!

Not accurate
I am giving it two stars because it may be useful for rough estimates.However, it is a disappointment.I got it on sale (close-out, I think) and for interior walls it consistently reads about 5 inches longer than the actual dimension (properly measuring from base.I am sure I will occasionally bring it out of the toolbox for a quick rough measure, but that is about it.I'd return it if I could.

You get what you pay for
I received this as a gift and for my line of work, it works OK.
Don't expect exact accuracy, that's not what it is for. It is very good for me on estimates. Sure I get some obvious errors, but if you read the maunal, you will see that most are addressed there. Why would anyone use this to get measurements for cutting trim..??? That is what a tape is for. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools    2. Distance Estimators    3. (Sonar)    4. (Sonic)    5. (Electronic)    6. (Range Finder)    7. Line Lasers    8. Home    9. Tools   

Editorial Review

If only this had been in our toolbox a year ago when westruggled to install a suspended ceiling in the basement. This littleguy puts out an actual laser line vertically, horizontally, or at anyangle. It's wonderfully simple and dead-on accurate. Just position thealignment notch with the guidance of the dual bubble levels, push thetabs to anchor the self-retracting pushpins, and raise the lens coverfor hands-free accuracy. The recessed rubber grip offers sure handling,but this tool also sports an impact-resistant body, just in case.Hardly bigger than a 25-foot measuring tape, this tool will tuck nicelyinto any toolbox and serve decorators, builders, remodelers, anddo-it-yourselfers equally well. It doesn't come with batteries, so havetwo AAs on hand. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Saves time / Easy one person operation
• Projects a 30+ foot visible laser guide line
• Laser beam will not harm finished environments
• Laser skips over small imperfections, moldings, and uneven surfaces, casting a continuous line
• Self-retracting push pins hold the unit on drywall or wood

Reviews (58)

Necessity for the Female toolbox.
Hanging pictures and shelves use to cause friction between my husband and me. Now I do not have to ask for help. The Laser Level is a must have for the ladies toolbox........

Piece of junk
I bought this thing from a local home improvement store thinking it would be handy to use for hanging items on the wall and providing layout lines for flooring, etc.Wrong!The retractable pins that are supposed to hold it to a wall or ceiling or whatever, retract continuously and it won't stay in place. The laser line is practically invisible so it was of no use even if I had a project where I could just set it on the floor. It does seem to be fairly impact resistant proven by the number of times the pins retracted and it fell off the wall plus throwing it across the room out of frustration didn't seem to hurt it.However, it was a piece of junk before I threw it and it's still a piece of junk.I don't even know where it is anymore and I don't care.

Very Helpful
Too bad I didn't have this years ago.

Very handy!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools    2. Line Lasers    3. Marking Tools    4. Home    5. Tools   

Editorial Review

Strait-Line's awesome Laser Level had, in our book, just one flaw: Its gripping pins left indentations on some surfaces, such as wallpaper, wallboard and pine. Enter the Swivel Base, and Strait-Line has quite possibly the perfect leveling tool. The base attaches simply and quickly, and the two-axis adjustment allows for tuning the laser once the base is mounted. Because of 3M's ingenious Command Adhesive technology, it will stick to any surface and—the best part—come off cleanly. Hang pictures or shelves, wallpaper, wood trim, cabinetry, and leave no damage behind. Strait-Line's patent-pending base swivels a complete 360 degrees to accommodate any conceivable application, The Command Adhesive strips come in replacement packages of 24. If you own Strait-Line's Laser Level, this Swivel Base is truly a must-have.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Rotates 360 degrees with two axis adjustments
• An accessory to the Strait-Line Laser Level
• Attaches simply and quickly, and comes off cleanly
• One strip secures the tool to surfaces like concrete, drywall and glass, without pins or marring
• Six adhesive strips

Reviews (3)

It's Alright....
I use this accessory on a daily basis.The adhesive tends to loose its holding power after a couple minutes and the level starts falling towards the floor.At least I can hear it beginning to separate and have time to run over and push it back onto the wall or take it down.I was hoping the adhesive strips would hold better, but at least they don't leave any marks on the walls.

Was it worth it?YES.
Buy it again?Yes, because I have no choice.
Satisfied?Not really, but I can't leave holes in my customers walls.

Excellent Add-On for the Laser Level!!
This is a great addition to the Laser Level by Strait-line!It just snaps easily on to the laser level, then uses sticky strips to adhere to the wall so you don't have to worry about poking holes in the wall anymore!The stickies are easily replaceable too, you can buy them in packs of 24 (and it takes me a little while to go through 24 of the buggers!).

Your wallpaper's new best friend.
If you've enjoyed the new Strait-Line laser as much as I have, you're having too much fun. But of course every time you use the laser, it embeds its tiny little pins into the wall, leaving a couple of tiny holes. If you remember what you paid for that wallpaper, you might just grimace a bit at thinking you've perforated it.
Along comes this little swivel attachment and all of a sudden you can mount your laser level any which way you like with some easily replaceable stick-on strips that won't mar any finish and won't punch tiny holes in your walls. You could say it's a nice touch. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools   

Editorial Review

Move your orange clamps over and make room for Irwin. There are so many improvements on this fixture that we're just plain impressed. At the top of the list is the longer handle design that actually prevents the skinned knuckles woodworkers have come to expect. A close second is that these clamps don't need threaded pipes, an idea we applaud. The feet are bigger, and there are no downsides to that-—you get more clearance and more stability. The "double-thread design" means it takes less pressure to close on your workpiece, which means less fatigue for the user. We found the mechanism smooth and easy to operate, and if orange just isn't your color, this may be the perfect fixture for you.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Innovative clutch system eliminates the need for threaded pipe
• Larger feet offer more stability and clearance between handle and worktop
• Larger, more ergonomic handle offers easier clamping with reduced hand fatigue
• Larger clutch plates allow for easier release and increased durability and dependability

Reviews (8)

Great product - ignore the bad reviews
The few negative reviews here about the clutches being installed backwards almost kept me from buying these, but I decided to give them a try anyway since intuitively it seemed that the clutches and spring must be user serviceable.They arrived a day ago and I just got some black iron pipe for them to check fit and operation, and I must say I am very impressed with these clamps.The fit is tight and precise, the screw turns easily without binding, and the sliding jaw moves easily along the pipe.Cosmetically they are much nicer than any other I have seen in stores.The clutches on mine were all installed properly -- however, had they been installed in any other manner I could have simply compressed the spring by hand, removed the clutch plates and reinstalled them in the correct orientation!No problems there (I tried it and verified that if installed upside-down they will cause the problem mentioned in previous reviews, but as I said this is easily fixed).I bought these because of the extended height of the feet, which do allow knuckle clearance when operating the hand screw.The feet seem to be wider also, making these more stable.One thing I did notice is that the entire screw length can not be used due to the handle butting up against the end of the clamp when tightened all the way (maybe an inch of unused threads) but this is trivial -- there is plenty of thread length to do the job.I bought four sets of these for some furniture building projects I am working on, and will buy more in the future!The only things this clamp does not have vs. the Rockler ones is the lip on the threaded foot for hanging on a rack, and pre-drilled holes for mounting extention blocks.I plan to take a 2x4 and cut some notches in it so I can simply slide the pipe into the notch with the threaded jaw resting on the top for easy hanging, and if I ever need to mount anything to the jaws I can drill the holes easily enough.I do like the fact that the pipe does not have to be threaded, although the pipe I bought has threads cut and it works great.If you're looking for a high-quality pipe clamp buy these!Feel free to email questions to me (just remove the "nospam" from the address).

Great product - ignore the bad reviews
The few negative reviews here about the clutches being installed backwards almost kept me from buying these, but I decided to give them a try anyway since intuitively it seemed that the clutches and spring must be user serviceable.They arrived a day ago and I just got some black iron pipe for them to check fit and operation, and I must say I am very impressed with these clamps.The fit is tight and precise, the screw turns easily without binding, and the sliding jaw moves easily along the pipe.Cosmetically they are much nicer than any other I have seen in stores.The clutches on mine were all installed properly -- however, had they been installed in any other manner I could have simply compressed the spring by hand, removed the clutch plates and reinstalled them in the correct orientation!No problems there (I tried it and verified that if installed upside-down they will cause the problem mentioned in previous reviews, but as I said this is easily fixed).I bought these because of the extended height of the feet, which do allow knuckle clearance when operating the hand screw.The feet seem to be wider also, making these more stable.One thing I did notice is that the entire screw length can not be used due to the handle butting up against the end of the clamp when tightened all the way (maybe an inch of unused threads) but this is trivial -- there is plenty of thread length to do the job.I bought four sets of these for some furniture building projects I am working on, and will buy more in the future!The only things this clamp does not have vs. the Rockler ones is the lip on the threaded foot for hanging on a rack, and pre-drilled holes for mounting extention blocks.I plan to take a 2x4 and cut some notches in it so I can simply slide the pipe into the notch with the threaded jaw resting on the top for easy hanging, and if I ever need to mount anything to the jaws I can drill the holes easily enough.I do like the fact that the pipe does not have to be threaded, although the pipe I bought has threads cut and it works great.If you're looking for a high-quality pipe clamp buy these!

Quality Control
I was really happy to see the new improved clamp design available from Irwin at a reasonable price. When I put the first one I had ordered together I could not figure where I had gone wrong, as the clamp did not sit flat on the bench top. I checked the product reviews online to find that the improper installation of the clutch plates is a pervasive issue. Very disappointing. Until I see that Irwin has addressed the issue I will look for alternative versions at Rockler.com as another user suggested, and continue using the Pony Clamps that are proven performers. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps   

Editorial Review

Sure, there are other stud finders out there. But not like this one. Here's why: It locates a stud through wallboard up to 1-1/2 inches deep. It turns itself on and off automatically with surface contact. It auto-calibrates after each scan. The LCD signal is clear, bright and easy to read. And best of all, you'll never have to mark the center with a pen or pencil again, because with a press of the marking button, this baby does it for you. It's like nothing we've ever seen, and something we think someone should have come up with a long time ago. The Stud Finder can be used by itself, but it's a slick duo with Strait-Line's Laser Level, which can map out the entire length of the stud for you. The Stud Finder is light but rugged and fits nicely in the palm of the hand. One of the best we've seen.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Instant on/off operation with surface contact
• Micro-chip technology lets the unit calibrate on its own
• Auto-marking feature eliminates messy pen or pencil
• Lightweight, easy to handle design
• Can be used alone or with Strait-Line Laser Level

Reviews (14)

Worse than junk
This is arguably the worst tool I have owned in 40+ years of home repair. Not only does it not work, it makes an obnoxious high-pitched beep that will drive the average person crazy.

Total garbage. You have some nerve selling this on Amazon.

Awful- Lame - junk - schlock - P.O.S - ugh
---I ended up smashing this thing with a hammer--
It needed to be put out of my misery.
>Another fine product from crapco where quality is just a word<
I bought itto see ifit would work better then the basic zircron I had. Well if completely arbitrary readings are what you want, this is your unit. A roll of wet toilet paper would work as well, and not have the annoying high pitched beeping.
man was this thing bad.
No ,really it was no good at all
seriously, it was junk

We ain't figured this contraption out
Lulu, my niece, got this stud finder and went to the local saloon to find herself a feller.Heck, I've been tellin' Lulu for years that if she wants her a stud she'd best pick up a stick of deodorant and get a good shave, but do kids listen these days?

Anyways, Lulu took this finder to the saloon over by the skunk farm--all the farm hands hang out there after work.She thought she knew how to use this tool, but the first old boy she touched with it got so addled he ran out the bar and ain't none of us seen him since.She touched another feller with it, waiting for this digital readout to tell her if she'd found her a stud, and the contraption just flashed a number at her.

"It says you're six inches," Lulu told the feller.Ain't none of us seen him since, neither.

Needless to say, Lulu went home empty-handed, but she's determined to figure out how to make her stud finder work.I'm gonna help her look over the directions again, but I suspect with a tool that's got a long number like 64020 on it it's going to take one of them astronauts to show us the ropes.And them astronauts don't need no fellers, neither.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools    2. Scanners    3. (Stud Finders)    4. (Studfinders)    5. (Stud Sensors)    6. (Stud Sensers)   

Features

• 1/4-, 3/8-, 1/2-, 3/4-, 1 and 1-1/4 inch chisels
• Beveled edge
• Slightly squared special polypropolyne handles
• Wooden box included

Reviews (12)

Great Value For The Price
These chisels (now branded as IRWIN , not Marples) are a great value. They require flattening, as all chisels do; they will not serve you right out of the box. Be sure you understand the process and flatten, sharpen and hone your chisels properly and I believe you'll find these a perfectly servicable set. There is certainly better: another reviewer mentioned Lie-Nielson which is like comparinga Ford to a Bentley. They are in another class and are priced accordingly. For the price I don't believe you'll find better. I purchased mine sans box, so I can't comment on that, but at this price the box should be considered a bonus and shouldn't really figure into your decision at all.

Looked cheap and fragile
Ordered these from Amazon and shipping was fast as usual.The box the chisels come in is pretty flimsy and cheaply made...don't let the fact that these chisels have a box to store them in influence your decision to buy.I had heard good things about these chisels from friends and neighbors who had them but had never seen them until I received my Amazon order.

The chisel handles are hard plastic but upon further inspection of my chisels, one of them had a crack in the plastic with some of the plastic already missing!The chisels were brand new as they had no wear marks at all!The plastic had cracked all the way down to the metal and that was enough of an omen for me to return them!The chisels just look cheaply made to me.

Returned to Amazon and went to Sears and bought some Craftsman chisels...I am VERY happy with them.

Looked cheap and fragile
Ordered these from Amazon and shipping was fast as usual.The box the chisels come in is pretty flimsy and cheaply made...don't let the fact that these chisels have a box to store them in influence your decision to buy.I had heard good things about these chisels from friends and neighbors who had them but had never seen them until I received my Amazon order.

The chisel handles are hard plastic but upon further inspection of my chisels, one of them had a crack in the plastic with some of the plastic already missing!The chisels were brand new as they had no wear marks at all!The plastic had cracked all the way down to the metal and that was enough of an omen for me to return them!The chisels just look cheaply made to me.

Returned to Amazon and went to Sears and bought some Craftsman chisels...I am VERY happy with them. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Hand Tools    4. Wood Chisels    5. (Chisells)   

Editorial Review

We thought it was a great thing when levels started coming out with pins in them to affix the unit to the wall, hands-free. But then you're left with little pin marks, a small price to pay, we figured, for hands-free convenience. But then came 3M technology and Command Adhesive strips, and suddenly, those little pinholes didn't have to happen. Strait-Line got on board with their laser level's adhesive base, teaming it with this innovative stuff that sticks like heck when you want it to and comes off cleanly, leaving no residue or mark behind. There are enough strips here for two dozen uses, though we can imagine filching a few for other projects, as well.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 3M Command Adhesive Strips hold strongly and come off cleanly
• Exclusive non-marring adhesive
• Simply pull down to deactivate the adhesive and remove the unit from the wall
• 4 strips with 6 applications each for a total of 24 uses

Reviews (1)

Strait-Line Refills
These refills work with the Strait-Line laser level swivel base, which uses them to adhere to the wall (since the level itself normally sticks in the wall with pins - these save your wall from getting all those holes!).Highly recommend - they are a great buy!Good stocking stuffer for those handymen (and women!) too! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Measuring & Layout Tools   

Features

• 3" max. jaw opening
• Constructed from high-tech resin material
• Strong, lightweight, and rust resistant
• Soft durable pads to protect fine finishes

Reviews (3)

Works great as long as you don't open the jaws up too much
The clamping action gets weaker after about 1.5" of opening.
Otherwise, it's inexpensive and works great.

3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th...... Hands
I've had a box of these for quite a while and I'm always finding new uses for them.They are real handy to hold stop blocks on your radial arm saw fence, drill press fence and table saw miter gauge fence.I hold projectstogether during "dry assembly" and while tracing parts forreproduction.You can clip a note or plan on anything the jaw willstradle.Did I mention gluing?They're just a little too tight to use fora nose clamp when you're working around Ralph after he had those beans forlunch, but you should use a respirator, anyway.

Extra hand for a little price!
Great Product for little cost!A must in any workshop!Very stong clamp power.If you need extra hands for any project, here is your solution!Get at least 2.... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Spring Clamps    3. (Squeeze Clamps)    4. (Hand Clamps)   

Features

• Easily converts to a spreader
• 4-1/4" max. jaw opening, 1-3/16" throat depth
• Soft, durable pads protect delicate work, great for hobby work
• Lightweight, strong, high-tech resin material
• Handles designed for comfortable hand-span

Reviews (3)

Just the right size
These little clamps are just the right size for those small boxe's I seem to be making a lot of lately. With the soft pads and the one handed operation they make glue ups a snap on small items. Getting the right pressure on these small pieces is essential, with larger clamps it is too easy to get too much pressure and squeeze out all the glue, leaving a starved joint. These little clamps have a nice "feel", allowing you to get just the right amount of pressure to insure a strong joint.
Highly recommend.

Model Builder's Essential
If you build scale models and other miniatures, you will find that two or more of these clamps are part of your essential kit.They are about the closest thing you will find to untiring fingers.They can hold softly or as firmly as any screw clamp.The parts and pads seem impervious to model making solvents and chemicals.

I also use them as a simple hand vice.Fixtures and jigs that utilize clamping can be taped to the jaws.The main bar can be replaced with a brass strip if you need a greater reach, but also need the smallness of these jaws.Household repairs?No.The slightly stouter Quick-Grips are much more rigid.These are for very light work and are the right tool for the delicate work of model building

I'd give a sixth star if I could!

Quick clamps
These quick clamps work great. They are very easy to quickly bring to the right size and then squeeze with one hand to tighten the clamp. As someone who works alone most of the time, being able to clamp one handed is a bighelp. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps    3. Spreader Clamps   

Features

• Works on both standard and metric
• Can be used with either a drive socket or standard wrench
• High speed steel
• Impact resistant case

Reviews (3)

Irwin bolt grip
Most tools of this type are overrated, and I was sceptical when I saw this one advertised. However, I ran into a situation at work where I had to remove some badly rusted and rounded over bolts from the exhaust manifold of a piece of earthmoving machinery, and none of the standard methods worked. After trying for 3 hours, I finally bought a set of Bolt Grips. They really worked. I had all 3 bolts out in less than 5 minutes. I am sold on these things.

seems a little expensive but well worth it
i was under my truck for 3 hours with pb blaster and vice grips trying to get off rusted, rounded off axle bolts. bought a set of these and i was done in 15 minutes. a MUST HAVE for any home mechanic with an older car.

Having trouble with your nuts and bolts?
Wow, this set has come in handy!My fiance and I have been doing quite a few home repairs lately, and noticed many rounded and damaged nuts and bolts around the house that regular wrenches were really inefficient with.I got this set in hopes that it would help, and it has!It comes with 5 different sizes of bolt grips and works with all of my fairly standard wrenches.I highly recommend this product - you will not be unsatisfied! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Hand Tools    2. Tool Sets    3. Wrenches   

Features

• Innovative clutch system eliminates the need for threaded pipe
• Larger feet offer more stability and clearance between handle and worktop
• Larger, more ergonomic handle offers easier clamping with reduced hand fatigue
• Larger clutch plates allow for easier release and increased durability and dependability

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps   

Features

• Full lifetime warranty
• 2 tools in 1 - converts to a spreader by reversing clamp pad
• Quick one-handed operation
• Non-marring, stay-on pads, that protect finish and yet can be replaced
• Made in the USA from the makers of vise-grip locking hand tools

Reviews (6)

Who needs an extra hand, or help from your wife
when you have these clamps.They're super.I thought they were a gimimick, but now that I've built a fence, an arbor, a cabinet and two tables, I'm sold. Get a bunch.

Worked Great!Couldn't be Happier!
The molding on my car was falling off and I needed to glue it back on.I tried using duct tape, but that wasn't working.

I bought a Quick-Grip Bar Clamp to use for the job.It worked great.Very easy to use.Soft pad on the clamp did not scratch the paint.

I'd recommend this to anyone.Another great IRWIN product!

Quick Grip tops the charts on usability plus
The big benefit to these is that you get true mobility out of them. While holding a piece of work, lined up, in one hand, you use these quick grips in the other hand to secure the work. If it slips while clamping, it is still a one handed tool to release it, and reclamp it again. Enables you to maintain a professional flow to your work. I feel awkward when using regular clamps in comparison. They require two hands. You could use a spring clamp to hold it together, then get another clamp to give it a final hold, but the quick grip saves you from having to do that.
Having these clamps in a few different sizes is beneficial as well. Small ones are more frequently used, and don't get in the way. The 33 1/2" is great when you need to hold larger projects together, and you can't effectively use two smaller ones to substitute. Additionally the macro clamps give you deeper jaws for a farther reach, enabling you to use them for securing work, to your radial arm saw table for example. They are fast enough to be used for almost any application. Sometimes I use them to secure work when sanding with a power sander. A couple squeezes and they are on, and one squeeze and they pop off.
After getting the smaller ones, and using them, I immediately order two of the 33 1/2" for larger projects, and for tie downs on equipment, including the drill press, and occasionally the radial arm saw.
Their is a small rubber stopper, which you can readily remove, in order to reverse the end, and make it a spreader as well. Something not needed very often, but difficult to achieve without one of these.
One note is that these have built in rubber pads, that completely cover the metal internal end. That is an advantage when you do not want to mar the wood. That and the fact that you can squeeze these with one hand, creates a mechanism that is easy to use, but not something that you would want to use for strength clamping. As a safety measure, these clamp sufficiently for most operations, but a threaded bar clamp, is stronger. So for those operations where extreme strength is needed, these are not the clamps to use. You sacrifice mountain holding strength for the ease of use. For example if I was using a large bit on the drill press, and drilling into metal, I would clamp it with something more. Even the slightest movement in an operation like that, could cause a snag, sending the piece into movement. If you are using just one of them, at the end of a 24" board, and decide to rout the other end, it will move on you. Securing it with two of them, and it is super tied down. You get my drift.
The big advantage of quick grip clamps, is that they handle wood beautifully, even for glue up operations. Hold workpieces more than securely to do the job in most applications, and are so handy that they deserve more than 5 stars. I would feel lost without them. It is another tool in the must have category. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps    3. Spreader Clamps   

Features

• 3.79 cubic foot
• Convienent removable tray with an integrated handle and partitions to separate your tools
• Comfortable padded handle that folds away for easy storage
• Also can be used as a step stool
• Color: gray

Reviews (4)

Rubbermaid Step Stool Tool Box - an essential!
For years I have traveled around the country showing horses. The Rubbermaid Step Stool Tool Box is an essential tool. I have one that holds my braiding supplies and one that holds my clipping supplies. The storage space inside the stool clears away the clutter and organizes all those small tools. And the fact that it's a stool gives short people like me a one-up! At home, I have one for gardening tools and small household tools. It's very convenient to have everything in one easy to carry tool-box, rather than having to carry everything PLUS a stool. I just pick it up and go!

Great for fitness videos and storing weights
I use this stool when I do my Firm exercise videos.It's stable and doesn't tip over, plus it holds pairs of 10 lb, 8 lb, and 5 lb dumbbells as well as two pairs of ankle weights.It's a lot cheaper than other exercise steps.

Tradesman (Electrician)
Rubbermaid makes the best tool carrier I've ever used!The tool box should have a place to hang a lock and be equipped with a retractable 120 volt cord complete with 2 utility outlets to plug into.As you carry thetool box the legs bang into your legs. This is a great product! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. (Rubber Maid)    2. Housewares    3. Tool Boxes    4. (Toolboxes)    5. Rubbermaid    6. Storage & Containers    7. Tool Storage   

Features

• Built to last for the professional woodworker
• Slightly squared polypropylene handle offers solid, comfortable grip
• Design decreases twisting and slipping during use
• Set includes bevel edges of 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 1 inch

Reviews (18)

These are money well spent!
The previous reviews are correct - these are good chisels at an amazing price.Though I am mostly a power tool guy, I do use chisels a lot for fine tuning mortises, paring tenons, flush trimmimg dowel plugs, etc.I have found that these chisels hold an edge for a good while.Do they hold an edge as long as a 200 dollar set?Of course not, but if you are willing to sharpen a bit more often you can save a LOT of money by buying these chisels.The handles are reliably strong.If I need extra force I always strike my handles with a rubber mallet.I previously owned the six piece set of these chisels.When they were stolen, I decided that the box was not worth much (it is not all that nice) and that for a lot less money I could do without the extra 2 chisels.So I bought this 4 piece set and found it to be a good decision - I don't miss the other two at all!

Buy these - they are inexpensive and a VERY good value for the money.

best bang for your buck
There simply isn't a better value to be found than these.They sharpen well, and hold an edge well.The handles are very comfortable and durable.I've been working with wood for 15 years, it's currently how I make a living, and I rely on these for the majority of my chisel work.However, SHARPEN THEM FIRST.A dull chisel is a dangerous chisel, and even though IRWIN claims these are already "honed and ready for use" they aren't.

Great set for a beginner
I'm a new woodworker and I needed a set of chisels to get things rolling. After reading some reviews, I decided on this set. At the price, they're a great deal and they've been very useful around the shop. I've also been practicing dovetails with them without any problem. I just need to learn how to sharpen them! Some have complained that they weren't very sharp out of the box. That might be true but I haven't noticed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Hand Tools    2. Wood Chisels    3. (Chisells)   

Features

• Full lifetime warranty
• 2 tools in 1 - converts to a spreader by reversing clamp pad
• Quick one-handed operation
• Non-marring, stay-on pads, that protect finish and yet can be replaced
• Made in the USA from the makers of vise-grip locking hand tools

Reviews (3)

Its a big momma, get the other sizes as well
The big benefit to these is that you get true mobility out of them. While holding a piece of work, lined up, in one hand, you use these quick grips in the other hand to secure the work. If it slips while clamping, it is still a one handed tool to release it, and reclamp it again. Enables you to maintain a professional flow to your work. I feel awkward when using regular clamps in comparison. They require two hands. You could use a spring clamp to hold it together, then get another clamp to give it a final hold, but the quick grip saves you from having to do that.
Having these clamps in a few different sizes is beneficial as well. Small ones are more frequently used, and don't get in the way. The 33 1/2" is great when you need to hold larger projects together, and you can't effectively use two smaller ones to substitute. Additionally the macro clamps give you deeper jaws for a farther reach, enabling you to use them for securing work, to your radial arm saw table for example. They are fast enough to be used for almost any application. Sometimes I use them to secure work when sanding with a power sander. A couple squeezes and they are on, and one squeeze and they pop off.
After getting the smaller ones, and using them, I immediately order two of the 33 1/2" for larger projects, and for tie downs on equipment, including the drill press, and occasionally the radial arm saw.
Their is a small rubber stopper, which you can readily remove, in order to reverse the end, and make it a spreader as well. Something not needed very often, but difficult to achieve without one of these.
One note is that these have built in rubber pads, that completely cover the metal internal end. That is an advantage when you do not want to mar the wood. That and the fact that you can squeeze these with one hand, creates a mechanism that is easy to use, but not something that you would want to use for strength clamping. As a safety measure, these clamp sufficiently for most operations, but a threaded bar clamp, is stronger. So for those operations where extreme strength is needed, these are not the clamps to use. You sacrifice mountain holding strength for the ease of use. For example if I was using a large bit on the drill press, and drilling into metal, I would clamp it with something more. Even the slightest movement in an operation like that, could cause a snag, sending the piece into movement. If you are using just one of them, at the end of a 24" board, and decide to rout the other end, it will move on you. Securing it with two of them, and it is super tied down. You get my drift.
The big advantage of quick grip clamps, is that they handle wood beautifully, even for glue up operations. Hold workpieces more than securely to do the job in most applications, and are so handy that they deserve more than 5 stars. I would feel lost without them. It is another tool in the must have category.

An Extra Set Of Hands
The quick change is very helpful for various tasks. The only problem I experienced is that the Quick Change side(reversible side) contains plastic clips. Mine broke. I had to buy a second just to make it useful again. keep in mind how much pressure you apply and make sure the clip is fully engaged befofe using the tool.

Great for Woodworking
I bought two 50inch and two 24 inch for a series of wood projects. I foundthem to be easy to use and extremely strong.I mostly used them forglueing up wood together and could really bear down and watch the glue getpushed out between the joints.I could not get that with otherclamps.

The only thing to watch out for, is the pressure might make marksin soft wood, so I would use a 1 x 2 in between the project and the clamp,to distribute the pressure. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps    3. Spreader Clamps   

Features

• One-handed operation enhances user speed and convenience
• Ratchets quickly to work surface; smooth release upon job completion
• Broached teeth are ideal black, galvanized, PVC, and copper pipe, as well as nuts, bolts, and couplings
• 43% less weight than standard 14" cast iron pipe wrenches
• Ergonomic handle ideal for heavy torque and maximum comfort

Reviews (1)

Good Wrench
This wrench is good for finish work, but it's a little springy and can be a knucklebuster when it comes to wrenching tough pipe - it can get it done though. This won't replace your standard 10 inch pipe wrench, but not bad to have in your toolbox. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Hand Tools    2. Pipe Wrenches   

Editorial Review

As its name implies, the Handi-Clamp is a handy tool to have around when you need to hold a work piece securely in place while working on it. The lightweight clamp squeezes into place easily and holds fast. Non-marring pads grip the work surface tightly, without damaging it. And a quick-release trigger on the handle makes it easy to remove or readjust the clamp as needed--no screwing, twisting, or tightening, just squeeze and clamp down. A larger, 4-inch version of the Handi-Clamp is available for clamping thicker materials, too. Rule number one in a workshop: You can't have too many clamps. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Non-marring swivel pads protect work pieces
• Jaws are designed to reach around odd shapes
• One-handed operation is a major convenience
• Quick release trigger lets you remove the clamp without hassle
• Non-slip handles guarantee grip

Reviews (16)

Clamps that do not hold
1 star is too many if you want to use these as clamps!
I have a set of these clamps that I bought thinking they looked handy. They are handy, but if you want them to hold something in place you can not let go of the grips. Every time I have used them I want to squeeze them to one more notch on the ratchet.So far I have not found a good use for these clamps except to keep extension cords coiled and separate.

Good concept, poor execution
I have had two of these clamps for a few years now. They are as easy and convienient to use as the positive reviews describe, yet I hardly ever use them. They simply won't retain enough clamping pressure for most uses. As soon as I release the handles, about 80%-90% of the pressure disappears. Since basic spring clamps are just as easy to use, hold better and are much less expensive, I see no reason to buy this clamp. If I lost mine, I don't think I would ever miss them.

Excellent in some applications.
As noted in some of the other reviews, these clamps do not apply that much pressure.As such, they do not work well (or at all)for some applications.When I used them to secure pieces to a workbench for chiseling, they would lose their grip after a limited number of strokes.

That said, these clamps work very well in other situations.I find that these are the best clamps for securing plywood to sawhorses when cutting with a jig or circular saw.They can be applied and removed within seconds, speeding up the work flow immensely.These clamps would be worth purchasing for that application alone. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Spring Clamps    3. (Squeeze Clamps)    4. (Hand Clamps)   

Features

• Non-marring stay-on pads are soft, pliable, large pads that protect the finish, yet can be replaced
• 24"
• Quick Change Multi-Positioning Jaw locks on end-pin or any position on bar
• Quick-Clip feature on jaw converts clamp into a spreader quickly and easily; no tools required
• Quick one handed operation moves 2X faster than the Original Quick-Grip trigger

Reviews (2)

Extremely handy
Great clamps for two reasons.1, you only need one hand.2, you don't need to put blocks to prevent mares and dents.

Great Clamp, Good Size (You Decide)
This clamp uses the ingenius trigger grip design for unbelievable ease of use. This makes the clamp unbelievably easy to tighten using one hand. A few warnings about this particular product, however:

(1) Be sure the size is correct. I think the 24" size is probably a bit too big for most projects. I think the 18" size is the best all-around size.Personal preference and common usage really should make this decision for you.

(2) The plastic construction makes the clamps best for holding items "approximately" in place. If you need total clamping for cutting precision, look elsewhere.

All in all, a good product if it is the right size, and used for the right purpose.A good collection would probably include either this or the 18" size, the 36" size and the smallest size.If building such a collection, I would start with this or the 18" size. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bessey    2. (Bessy)    3. Clamps    4. Bar & Pipe Clamps    5. Spreader Clamps   

Features

• 6 in. mini bar clamp
• Designed with the hobbyist in mind
• Pistol - grip handle

Reviews (7)

Great design, but newer Irwin version has problems
I have several of these clamps purchased in the late 90's when they were marketed by American Tool Companies.They have been fantastic clamps and are the first clamps that I reach for when working on small projects.

I recently purchased some of the newer Irwin Mini Quick-Grip clamps, which seemed identical to the old ones except for the blue color.Unfortunately, the pistol grip trigger on the newer Irwin clamps does not engage the bar until it has been depressed about half way.The trigger on my older clamps engages immediately and advances the bar much further for each squeeze.In searching through the clamps on display at a local store, I found that the trigger action varied considerably.I was able to find a pair that worked reasonably well, but not nearly as well as my older American Tool Mini Quick-Grips.

The bar on the newer Irwin clamps also seems to be made of a softer steel.The locking mechanism leaves a groove in the bar each time the clamp is locked securely.The bars on my old clamps are still perfectly smooth after years of use.

Nothing better than this
I bought one of these on an impulse buy at a local hardware store - glad I did.

You can actually operate it with one hand.Position, clamp, release all with one hand while you hold the stock or another tool in the other hand.

Today I used it to clamp down some 4x4 fir stock to a sawhorse for some freehand sawzall sculpting:amazing.I'm going to buy 3 more so I have 4 total.

Great Small Clamps
As the other reviewers said, these are the handiest clamps to have.I have six and use them for everything from bench hold downs to assembling projects.Even if I don't use them as the main clamps on a project, I do use them as temporary clamps while I get the others on.

The best thing about them is the size - the handles fit my small hands much better and are more comfortable than their full-size cousins. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps   

Features

• Non-marring stay-on pads are soft, pliable, large pads that protect the finish, yet can be replaced
• 12"
• Quick Change Multi-Positioning Jaw locks on end-pin or any position on bar
• Quick-Clip feature on jaw converts clamp into a spreader quickly and easily; no tools required
• Quick one handed operation moves 2X faster than the Original Quick-Grip trigger

Reviews (5)

The most popular size and most frequently used
The big benefit to these is that you get true mobility out of them. While holding a piece of work, lined up, in one hand, you use these quick grips in the other hand to secure the work. If it slips while clamping, it is still a one handed tool to release it, and reclamp it again. Enables you to maintain a professional flow to your work. I feel awkward when using regular clamps in comparison. They require two hands. You could use a spring clamp to hold it together, then get another clamp to give it a final hold, but the quick grip saves you from having to do that.
Having these clamps in a few different sizes is beneficial as well. Small ones are more frequently used, and don't get in the way. The 33 1/2" is great when you need to hold larger projects together, and you can't effectively use two smaller ones to substitute. Additionally the macro clamps give you deeper jaws for a farther reach, enabling you to use them for securing work, to your radial arm saw table for example. They are fast enough to be used for almost any application. Sometimes I use them to secure work when sanding with a power sander. A couple squeezes and they are on, and one squeeze and they pop off.
After getting the smaller ones, and using them, I immediately order two of the 33 1/2" for larger projects, and for tie downs on equipment, including the drill press, and occasionally the radial arm saw.
Their is a small rubber stopper, which you can readily remove, in order to reverse the end, and make it a spreader as well. Something not needed very often, but difficult to achieve without one of these.
One note is that these have built in rubber pads, that completely cover the metal internal end. That is an advantage when you do not want to mar the wood. That and the fact that you can squeeze these with one hand, creates a mechanism that is easy to use, but not something that you would want to use for strength clamping. As a safety measure, these clamp sufficiently for most operations, but a threaded bar clamp, is stronger. So for those operations where extreme strength is needed, these are not the clamps to use. You sacrifice mountain holding strength for the ease of use. For example if I was using a large bit on the drill press, and drilling into metal, I would clamp it with something more. Even the slightest movement in an operation like that, could cause a snag, sending the piece into movement. If you are using just one of them, at the end of a 24" board, and decide to rout the other end, it will move on you. Securing it with two of them, and it is super tied down. You get my drift.
The big advantage of quick grip clamps, is that they handle wood beautifully, even for glue up operations. Hold workpieces more than securely to do the job in most applications, and are so handy that they deserve more than 5 stars. I would feel lost without them. It is another tool in the must have category.

I love this Clamp/spreader
As with the entire quick grip products the features that should entice you to buy and use the Quick-Grip 512QC Bar Clamp/Spreader are the ease of adjustment and the fact that it won't mar even the softest of wood yet still provide ample force for your project. Being able to use it as both a clamp and a spreader is a major Plus over the other clamps available.People with low hand strength or hand pain can use the trigger ratchet used for the adjustment with ease.It only requires a firm squeeze just over the pressure used for scissors.

The Best Clamp in the Market!
I went out and bought a 12" 512QC Quick-Grip Bar clamp/spreader justa few days ago and felt I should have bought it a long time ago. I can domost of the clamping with one hand now. I am not a professional but thistool let me do my work much x faster. The grip is very strong. In one clickyou can loosen it and the other handle on top tightens it. The Rubber gripsprotects wood from being damaged. You don't need to insert anything betweenwood and the grip. I want to buy the bigger length ones when the needarise. Also this is very lightweight and strong. I think every wood workingenthusiast or pro should have it ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clamps    2. Bar & Pipe Clamps    3. Spreader Clamps