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ToolsReplacement Contractor Magazine staff picks the best new tools.
- By REPLACEMENT CONTRACTOR Staff
- Source: REPLACEMENT CONTRACTOR Magazine
- Publication date: 2006-09-01
Forrest Mfg. For precise miter cuts without the need for additional sanding, try Miter Master blades. Specially designed for perfect 45-degree cuts and 90-degree joints, the blades have side runout of +/- .001 to ensure smooth and even cutting. They are made of corrosion-resistant C-4 carbide and designed to fit single or double chop saws, table saws, and radial arm saws. Available with 80 or 100 teeth. 937.437.5236. www.forrestsawblades.com.

Metabo. The ASE 18 cordless reciprocating saw offers a toolless adjustable depth stop, which allows the operator to control the length of the cut and use the entire length of the blade evenly. A patented air-cooled battery system helps keep the battery at optimum charging temperature and keeps the tool working longer between charges. The saw weighs 7.7 pounds and delivers up to 2,700 strokes per minute with a 1-inch stroke length. 800.638.2264. www.metabousa.com.

Hitachi. Offering more rip capacity and lighter weight than its predecessors, the C10RA3 is the third-generation jobsite table saw from the manufacturer. An oversized — 30¾-by-19½-inch — aluminum tabletop offers extra support with 24½ inches of ripping capacity to the right and 10 inches to the left. The saw comes with a 10-inch, 36-tooth, carbide-tipped blade and a metal stand that folds away for transport. 800.829.4752. www.hitachipowertools.com.

Worx. Part of the Revolver tool line, the Intruder 3/8-inch drill has an ergonomically correct handle with a 65-degree angle of rotation, allowing the worker to use the most beneficial angle in real-job situations without causing unnecessary strain or pressure. Other features of the 5.1-pound drill include locking switches, serviceable brushes, an adjustable depth-stop, and the Worx signature bright-green color. 888.599.3711. www.worxpowertools.com.

Milwaukee. Users can upgrade nickel-cadmium-powered tools to lithium-ion without purchasing a new tool set. The V18 system features several li-ion tools, as well as a battery and charger compatible with all the maker's current 18-volt tools. Li-ion batteries charge in 60 minutes; nicad in 40. Other tools in the line include driver and hammer drills, a circular saw, and an impact wrench. 800.729.3878. www.milwaukeetool.com.

Irwin. Featuring patented bi-metal technology, Blue Blade utility blades are designed to last up to three times longer than typical carbon blades. The flexibility of the spring steel blade makes it unbreakable under normal working conditions, the maker says 800.464.7946. www.irwin.com.

Stanley. The FatMax Xtreme Tape Rule, with up to 13 feet of standout, allows individual users to easily measure longer 12-foot building materials now on the market. The tape is wrapped in Mylar polyester film and the first six inches are coated with BladeArmor for durability. A top-forward lock design makes locking and unlocking the blade easier, and an interior heavy spring provides smooth blade recoil. Thermoplastic rubber and chrome cases house 16-, 25-, and 30-foot models. 800.782.6539. www.stanleytools.com.

RotoZip. Built around a 5-amp, 120-volt motor, the new RotoZip RZ02 Spiral Saw powers up to 30,000 rpm to accomplish a broad range of cutting applications. Replacing the first-generation RZ01, the new saw has full compatibility with the RotoZip system of attachments and accessories. A cord guard reduces downtime and enhances durability, while extra internal ribbing gives the tool structural support. An improved shaft-lock design makes bit changes faster and easier. Two kits are available with accessories to suit different users' needs. 877.768.6947. www.rotozip.com.