Tag Archives: tool comparison
Klein 1005 Crimper/Pliers Review: Right for Our Shop?
We’ve put the Klein Tools 1005 Cutting/Crimping Tool through the kind of daily use that quickly exposes a pretender. On paper it’s a straightforward cutter/crimper for 10–22 AWG terminals and connectors, handling both insulated and non‑insulated ends—exactly the range that crowds our bench. In hand, it feels like a classic shop companion: sturdy, no-nonsense, and confident when it closes on a crimp. We like that it aims to be an all-in-one helper, trimming wire cleanly and then moving straight into a controlled squeeze for consistent connections. Still, “Made in USA” and a famous name aren’t the whole story. The real question is whether the 1005 earns a permanent spot in our tool roll.
Milwaukee 2626-20 Oscillating Multi-Tool: Our Shop?
In our shop, the Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 oscillating multi-tool quickly proved it’s more than a “nice-to-have” gadget. With up to 18,000 OPM, it hums through a surprising range of tasks—flush cuts in trim, quick notches in plywood, and those awkward, corner-hugging jobs that usually demand three different tools. We appreciated that Milwaukee includes woodcutting blades and a sanding pad with sheets, letting us jump straight into real work without a separate accessory run. The cordless layout keeps our bench area uncluttered, and the tool feels ready for jobsite abuse. Since it’s sold as a power-tool-only kit, we treated it as a smart add-on for anyone already running M18 batteries.
Milwaukee 12V Cordless Rotary Tool Review: Our Shop?
In our shop, the Milwaukee Cordless Rotary Tool, 12.0V quickly proved it isn’t trying to be a full-size die grinder—it’s aiming to be the grab-and-go problem solver that lives within arm’s reach. We used it for quick deburring, light sanding, trimming plastic, and touching up tight corners where a larger tool feels clumsy. The cordless freedom kept our workflow moving, and the compact feel made detail work less fatiguing during short bursts. Power delivery feels suited to precision rather than brute force, which is exactly what we want from a rotary tool at this size. In this review, we’ll break down what impressed us, what slowed us down, and where it earns a permanent spot on our bench.
Kreg KPHJ720 Pocket-Hole Jig Review: Right for Us?
After a few weekend builds and one too-many wobbly joints, we decided it was time to test a pocket-hole jig that promised less fuss and more repeatable results. The Kreg KPHJ720 Pocket-Hole Jig 720 quickly felt like a workshop “reset”—durable, straightforward, and designed to keep our process moving instead of stopping to re-measure every step. We especially appreciated how easy it was to clamp and adjust, whether we were working with 1/2" trim or thicker 1 1/2" boards for sturdier frames. In this review, we’ll share how the 720 fit into our workflow, what surprised us, and where it still demands a little patience before we call it a must-have.
Wire Twister Tool Review: Right for Our Home Shop?
We didn’t expect two small drill attachments to change how we handle wiring projects, but this Wire Stripping and Twisting Tool set made a strong first impression in our home shop. The “quick stripping” feature feels like it’s designed for real-life use: we slid in the cable, let the drill do the work, and watched the insulation peel back with less fuss than our usual manual stripper routine. The wire nut twister is the real time-saver, especially when we’re connecting multiple leads in a junction box and want consistent twists without sore wrists. It’s not magic—setup and steady drill control matter—but it’s a compact, portable upgrade that earns a spot in our toolbox.
Hammerhead HAHD075 Hammer Drill Review: Right for Us?
We didn’t pick up the Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill (HAHD075) expecting miracles—we wanted a solid, do-it-all workhorse for weekend projects and the occasional stubborn wall. From the first trigger pull, the variable speed control felt predictable, letting us ease into pilot holes and then push harder when the material demanded it. The 1/2-inch chuck gave our bits a confident grip, and the included 6-piece bit set was a practical bonus for getting started right away. In hammer mode, it carried enough punch to make masonry feel less daunting, though it still asked for steady hands and patience. The real question: does it fit how we build?
Batavia Electric Brad Nailer Review: Right for Our Shop?
When we unboxed the Batavia Electric Nail Gun, the first thing we noticed was how “shop-ready” it felt: compact, corded, and clearly built for repeat tasks rather than one-off fixes. As a 2-in-1 stapler and 18-gauge brad nailer, it promises to cover the messy middle ground of our projects—upholstery touch-ups, cabinet backing, light trim, and quick jigs—without switching tools. We also appreciated that it arrives with a starter stash: 200 narrow crown staples (up to 3/4") and 800 nails, enough to test real workloads right away. In this review, we’ll dig into its driving consistency, ease of loading, and whether 120V power translates into dependable, everyday performance in our shop.
DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill Review: Right for Us?
The DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill arrived with the promise of being our “grab-and-go” helper for everything from tightening cabinet hinges to tackling weekend DIY builds. We put it through the kind of real-life tests that matter: quick fixes, awkward corners, and that inevitable moment when a screw refuses to cooperate. The drill feels confidently balanced in our hands, and the cordless design keeps our workspace moving instead of tangling. With the included battery and charger, we didn’t have to hunt down extras before getting started—always a welcome convenience. In this review, we’ll look at how its power, control, and everyday usability stack up, and whether it’s truly the right fit for our home projects.
ADAK Caulking Gun Review: Right for Our Shop?
In our shop, a caulking gun isn’t a “nice-to-have”—it’s the difference between a clean finish and an afternoon of touch-ups. The ADAK Professional Caulking Gun promises pro-level control with a 10:1 thrust ratio and a no-drip design, and we were curious whether it could keep up with our steady rotation of silicone and sealant jobs. From the first squeeze, the pressure feels smooth and predictable, making it easier to lay consistent beads along trim, backsplashes, and small repair seams. We also appreciate how the tool aims to reduce ooze between passes, which can save time when we’re moving quickly from one section to the next. Still, comfort, durability, and real-world “no drip” performance are where it must earn its spot.
DeWalt 20V Impact Wrench Review: Right for Our Shop?
When we pulled this cordless impact wrench out of the box, it felt like the kind of tool that wants a real job—not a showroom shelf. Built to run on DeWalt 20V batteries, it promises serious muscle with 1000/1200 N·m of high-torque impact power and a brushless motor meant to keep heat and downtime in check. In our shop, that translates to one question: will it break stubborn lug nuts loose without turning every tire change into a wrestling match? We like the practical touches, too—an LED work light for shadowy wheel wells and variable speed control to avoid overdoing it on smaller fasteners. Now we’re putting it through our usual abuse.
