This month members of the tool industry will descend on Baltimore for the annual convention and trade show of the Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association (STAFDA), an organization made up of manufacturers and distributors of construction/industrial products. The benefits for you and other end users are numerous–most notably, the show is a haven for new products and technologies. On the following pages is a preview of 25 new tools, accessories, and equipment products that will be on display at this year's STAFDA convention, including angle grinders, hand tools, measuring tools, pneumatic nailers and staplers, bits and blades, and much more. And stay tuned, we'll be cruising the STAFDA show aisles ourselves to bring you even more hot products and groundbreaking innovations that will help keep your crew and jobsites efficient and productive all year long.
Max USA
The company is introducing two new gas-powered hoseless nailers, the GS683RH 21-degree plastic collation full round-head framer and the GS683CH 34-degree paper tape framer (shown). These Cordless SuperFramer tools feature a sequential trip trigger, no-mar tip, dial-adjustable drive control, open-nose magazine for jam clearing, safety lock-out, reversible belt hook, and one-step loading. The nailers, which weigh 7.8 pounds, have a NiMH battery and low-battery indicator, and they come with a carrying case. Cost: GS683RH, $395; GS683CH $365. 800-223-4293. www.maxusacorp.com.
Leica Geosystems
Designed for pro applications, the A5 sixth-generation Disto laser distance measuring tool features an integrated telescopic optical viewfinder with crosshair and a flip-out piece for measuring from edges or corners. It automatically adjusts measurements to the appropriate reference, the maker says, and has functions for circumference, wall area, and ceiling/floor area, and indirect measurements of height and width for inaccessible places. It has an accuracy of +/- .08 inch and a range of .16 inch to 650 feet. A basic A3 model is also now available. Cost: A5, $349. 770-447-6361. www.disto.com.
Makita
The HM1810 70-pound breaker hammer delivers 1,100 blows per minute and 63 joules of impact energy. According to the company, the tool's Anti-Vibration Technology allows for three times less vibration. The tool has a 15-amp motor and a 16.4-foot cord. Cost: $1,450. 800-462-5482. www.makitatools.com.
Perles
The MD50 mixing and drill kit includes the company's 7-amp Pro Grade hammerdrill, mixing paddle, and drill bit set. The drill and mixer can be used for mixing paints and other light material up to 2 gallons and 20 pounds. The hammerdrill offers speeds of 0–750 rpm for mixing and 0–2,200 rpm for non-mixing applications, has a 1/2-inch keyed chuck, and weighs 6 pounds without the paddle. The paddle is 15 inches long. Cost: $100. 877-897-6220. www.perlesusa.com.
Empire Level
The True Blue level line now includes the em71 series of magnetic levels. Available in 24-, 48-, and 78-inch models, the levels feature rare earth neodymium magnets carefully positioned on the frame to line up with standard spacing of hinge plates, the maker says, allowing for use on wood and steel jambs. The levels' True Blue vials have blue bands that darken and define the bubble perimeter and provide enhanced visibility. Other features include durable end caps and dual-density grips. Cost: $47–$135. 800-558-0722. www.empirelevel.com.
Powers Fasteners
The W3-21R full-round 20 to 22–degree plastic collated hoseless gas nailer is lightweight and fast, allowing for speed and efficiency in wood-to-wood framing. It weighs 7.8 pounds. Its fuel cell valve installs easily. Cost: Unavailable. 800-524-3244. www.powers.com.
Maze Nails
Designed for cellular PVC trimboards such as AZEK, KOMA, and Kleer brands, these slender, blunt-pointed nails are made with high carbon steel and high-tensile stainless steel to minimize bending and reduce material splitting, the company says. The nails are available in bulk and coils. They are available painted white to match the trim. Cost: Unavailable. 800-435-5949. www.mazenails.com.
Fasco
This new light-wire tool, which can be used for roof felt and housewrap installation, among other applications, features a "one trigger system," which allows the operator to set the firing system with only the trigger, rather than having to push a side lever like with previous models. Other features include fewer components in the valve area, one-handed speed control, and a magazine that has no welded parts and is easy to assemble and repair. According to the company, the stapler's oversized metal cap and metal insert positioned below the trigger plate offer more balance, more control, and less vibration. Cost: $275. 800-239-8665. www.fascoamerica.com.
C.H. Hanson
Available in 4-inch and 13-inch (shown) wheel sizes, SpeedMeter electronic measuring wheels measure up to 10,000 feet/inches, 10,000 yards/tenths, or 10,000 meters/centimeters. They feature a large LCD display with a generous digital readout and selectable on/off backlight, an electronic brake that holds the measurement until it's reset, and a telescoping handle. Measurements are 99.9 percent accurate and can be converted with the push of a button. Ideal for outdoor use, the 13-inch model includes a pistol grip and collapsible kickstand; the 4-inch model, suitable for indoor applications, weighs 1 pound and collapses for storage. Cost: 4-inch, $30; 13-inch, $60. 800-827-3398. www.chhanson.com.
Stanley
Part of the TLM Series Tru Laser distance measurers, the basic TLM100 model (shown) for contractors features a large LCD display, area and volume calculation, an accuracy of +/- 1/4 inch, and a range of 2 to 100 feet. The TLM200 and TLM300 models, available under the Stanley, CST/berger, and David White brand names, offer more complex measuring, more functions, and longer distance capabilities. Cost: TLM100, $100. 800-782-6539. www.stanleyworks.com.
L.S. Starrett
The ProSite Protractor is now available in a compact 7-inch version. The tool takes error-prone calculations out of miter cuts: Its red scale shows the exact miter saw setting for each cut; the black scale indicates the exact miter saw setting for fitting a single piece to an angle. Cost: $50–$60. 978-249-3551. www.starrett.com.
Knaack Mfg.
Weather Guard steel truck boxes feature the Extreme Protection Lock, which protects against tampering and has an internal torque ring that eliminates keyhole break-ins; the lock retracts when locked. The box cover opens to a full 90-degree angle and has a new latch design with one-touch opening. Cost: $433–$779. 800-456-7865. www.weatherguard.com.
Bosch
This new line includes 60 recip saw blades for a range of cutting applications, including demolition, wood, metal, and more. Depending on the model, the blades incorporate technologies such as 2x2 tooth combinations, Progressor tooth patterns, and glow-in-the-dark paint. They are color-coded for easy identification. Cost: Unavailable. 877-267-2499. www.boschtools.com.
Rothenberger
The Super Fire 3 MAPP/Propane torch includes five different burner tips. The unit features a gas adjustment for precise flame, a swirl flame tip that enables the flame to wrap around the fitting, and a twist-and-lock system that shuts off the gas when the tip is removed. The torch nozzle stays cool, says the company, and the gas bottle stand allows the lit torch to be placed on the ground safely. Cost: $100. 800-435-0786. www.rothenberger-usa.com.
Klein Tools
This power-return rule features a large magnetic dual-end hook for easy one-person measurements and work with ferrous metals. Available in 16-, 25-, and 30-foot and 7-1/2-mm lengths, the rule is double-sided with easy-to-read oversized numbers. Cost: $19–$26. 800-553-4676. www.kleintools.com.
Greenlee
Designed to allow users to get through the entire thickness of wood, these self-feeding spade bits feature a threaded/toothed and tapered head design that requires less force while drilling, thereby reducing vibration and fatigue. The bits are available individually or in kits.Cost: $25 (kit). 815-397-7070. www.greenlee.com.
Ics Blount
The RedZaw RZ60C gas cut-off saw features a 4.2-hp, 2-cycle gas engine. The tool has an advanced rear-ported multi-stage air filtration and compensating carburetor for longer engine life, a reversible blade arm for closer cutting, and decompression valve for 50 percent easier starting, says the maker. Other features include a tool-free adjustable blade guard, ergonomic handle, and adjustable arbor. It accepts 12- or 14-inch blades with 1-inch or 20-mm arbors and delivers 5,100 rpm. Cost: $1,095. 800-321-1240. www.icsbestway.com.
PrimeSource
The Grip-Rite pneumatic toollineincludes a coil roofing nailer, 21-degree round-head framer, 33-degree clipped head framer, 2-1/2-inch 15-gauge angle finish nailer, 2-inch 18-gauge brad nailer, 2-1/2-inch 16-gauge finish nailer, plastic cap stapler, flooring stapler, flooring cleat nailer, and joist hanger nailers. The GRTCR175 coil roofing nailer (shown) has a compact body design, 120-nail capacity, dual-feed pawl system for consistent feed, multi-directional exhaust, tool-free depth-of-drive, and adjustable shingle guide. It accommodates 7/8- to 1-3/4-inch nails. Cost: Unavailable. 972-417-3701. www.primesourcebp.com.
DeWalt
One of three new small angle grinders from the company, the D28402 can cut and grind in materials including steel, pipe, tile, block, concrete, and mortar. For increased durability, the 4-1/2-inch angle grinder features the Dust Ejection System, which ejects 70 percent of concrete dust and debris and 80 percent of metal dust and debris, a one-piece brush arm to reduce jamming, an epoxy coating that protects copper in the motor, and an industry-first jam-pot gear case that provides precise gear alignment and reduced noise and vibration. The tool has a Quick-Change wheel release system and key-less guard. Cost: $89. 800-433-9258. www.dewalt.com.
Lenox
Addressing some common user frustrations, the company has unveiled new features and accessories for air acetylene and air propane/MAPP torches and tanks. The TankTote sleeve for "B" and "MC" tanks holds commonly used tools and accessories and includes an integrated hose wrap. A new assembly incorporates a highly accurate brass piston regulator and a large, easy-to-read gauge that is shielded with a high-strength composite material that extends upward into a convenient carry handle. Finally, the company is introducing new swirl flame torch tips and rebuild kits for easy replacement of parts. Nine "B" and "MC" kits are available. Cost: $200–$299. 800-628-8810. www.lenoxsaw.com.
Bostitch
Three new F-Series framing nailers–the F28WW 28-degree wire-weld nailer, F21PL 21-degree plastic collated nailer (shown), and F33PT 33-degree paper tape nailer–ship with a sequential trigger, but also come with an additional "smart" trigger that allows the tool to be converted between bump-fire or sequential-fire depending on how the trigger is pulled and the nose is depressed. Other features include a notched 16-inch layout indicator, push-button depth-of-drive, and steel wear guards with rubber skid pads. The F33PT and F21PL nailers come with an interchangeable tip for fastening metal connectors. Cost: $269–$289. 800-556-6696. www.bostitch.com.
Porta-Nails
The Portamatic Hammerhead TL and Portamatic Hammerhead S provide two new options for flooring installation. The TL hammer-actuated nailer (shown) can nail 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch tongue-and-groove wood flooring, accurately seating nails at 70 to 90 psi. It accommodates T or L Porta-Nails in a variety of lengths. The S model is a hammer-actuated stapler and can be used to drive 1/2-inch 15-gauge crown staples for 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch tongue-and-groove wood flooring. Cost: TL, $469; S, $439. 800-634-9281. www.porta-nails.com.
Metabo
With a wide speed range, the WE14-125 VS 5-inch angle grinder can be used on full speed for grinding and cutting stone, and also can be dialed down to a low speed for stone finishing and polishing, the maker says. The tool features a 12-amp motor with winding protection to prevent dust damage, Vario Tacho Constamatic electronics that provide speed stabilization under load, tool-free wheel changing, tool-free adjustable wheel guard, and a Metabo S automatic safety clutch. The grinder delivers a no-load speed from 3,000 to 10,500 and 29 inch-pounds of maximum torque. Cost: $213 (street price). 800-638-2264. www.metabousa.com.
Paslode
The newly engineered F250S-PP positive placement nailer allows for easy and accurate placement of fasteners in joist hangers, framing anchors and clips, hurricane ties, and other metal hardware. The tool features a durable 3/4-inch probe that locates the hardware while guiding the fastener as it is driven and an adjustable work contact element that controls depth-of-drive to ensure proper nail penetration, the maker says. Also included is the Smart Lever, which automatically adjusts for a 1-1/2-inch or 2-1/2-inch nail length, along with tool-free jam clearing and an over-molded grip. It weighs 8.5 pounds and accommodates nail diameters of .131, .148, and .162. Cost: $369. 800-682-3428. www.paslode.com.
Hitachi
The company's latest generation 2-inch cap stapler, the NV50AP3, has been redesigned for better performance and greater durability. The tool has a lightweight aluminum housing and is 20 percent lighter than the previous model. It holds 350 plastic or steel caps and 350 nails per coil. The tool features tool-free depth adjustment, a nail mode selection switch, a translucent nail magazine, 360-degree adjustable exhaust, and a rubber grip. Cost: $429. 800-829-4752. www.hitachipowertools.com.
