The Latest In-Demand Products for Contractors

Contractors are only as good as their tools. At least that’s the conventional wisdom. If your tools are outdated, there’s a good chance that they’re also slower and less effective, which ultimately can hinder your ability to meet customers’ needs.

To avoid this scenario, consider these relatively new and soon-to-be-released tools from major manufacturers:

* Clamps. Kobalt is launching a new line of Kobalt PEX products with a one-handed Cinch Clamp Tool with an LED light, which visibly indicates when a crimp is completely clamped. The company is also introducing a Quick Cinch Clamp Tool that’s smaller and has a ratcheting action—meaning it won’t release until the crimp is completely clamped.

Kobalt will also add the Kobalt Crimp Ring Removal Tool to the lineup. This new addition cuts both Ring Clamps and Cinch Clamps. And Kobalt is introducing three PEX Crimp Tools: The 1⁄2-inch and the 3⁄4-inch Kobalt adds an additional 1-inch head to its Multi-Head Crimp Tool. The Multi-Head Crimp Tool will feature four interchangeable heads in the following sizes: 3/8 inch, 1⁄2 inch, 3⁄4 inch and 1 inch. Expect the new tools in stores the summer of 2008. Prices are yet to be determined.

* Drills/screwdrivers/nailers. DeWALT’s 36V hammerdrill/drill/driver is engineered with a Nano-Phosphate Lithium Ion battery that provides twice the recharge value of traditional NiCad batteries. An estimated 2,000 recharges are possible during the product’s life cycle and it also features a three-speed transmission: The first speed is intended for wood jobs; the second for auger bits or screw driving; and the third for drilling into concrete with hammer mode ($449 at the time of publication).

DeWALT is also coming out with a new line of heavy-duty corded drills for increased performance with two handle-grip styles, mid-handle and traditional pistol grip. A DWD115K version offers 8 amps of power. (Starting at $59; available at the time this article was written.)

Klein Tools’ new magnetic screwdriver is being sold along with a 32-piece tamper proof bit set to allow sturdy bit and screw holding and ease of use. The 32-piece tamper proof bit set holds nine TORX, six fraction hex, five metric hex, four spanner, four Tri-Wing, and three TORQ-SET bits. (Pricing and in-store estimated date not available at the time of publication.)

Stanley Bostitch has introduced its new Strapshot 2 1/2-inch metal connector nailer to help contractors meet the demands of high-wind/earthquake prone regions. The Strapshot is a dedicated tool that can fasten metal connectors, designed for use in tight spaces. The nailer weighs in at 6 pounds, and features a nose which exposes each nail tip and places it directly into connector holes before the tool fires. In addition the Strapshot’s nail-management system features a head stop and check pawls to prevent jams. Pricing and in-store estimated were not available at the time of publication.

Kobalt is introducing Black Oxide Drill Bits now available in bulk packs, which are rust-resistant with a chip-breaker point designed to provide faster drilling. With a black oxide finish, they’re supposed to last longer than standard bits. Prices range from $9.57 to $22.97 and are currently available at Lowe’s.

* Knives/cutting objects. Irwin’s ProTouch Retractable Utility Knife has a three-position slide intended to provide increased durability.

The $9.98 retractable knife’s tool-free entry with push-button operation allows you to open the knife as well as expose replacement blades. You can also store up to five blades using the inside storage feature.

Klein Tools’ new stainless-steel electrician’s scissors products provide serrated teeth for non-slip cutting, and an extended handle for wire cutting. The company’s broad-blade utility shear also features a serrated blade as well as an extended handle. It can cut light wire, fabric, and cables/cords. A larger, 8-inch, high-leverage model allows you to cut rubber, light metal, plastics and ropes. Klein Tools’ utility snips feature the serrated blade and nickel-chrome plate to resist wear, along with a spring-loaded, self-opening action. Pricing and delivery dates were not available at the time this article was written.

NOTE: This content is for informational purposes only. Lowe’s makes no warranties and bears no liability for use of this information. The information is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal, tax or investment advice, or a legal opinion. Always contact your legal, tax and/or financial advisors to help answer questions about your business’s specific situation or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.