Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw Review

Chainsaws offer a unique capabilities for clearing trees and large brush. It is essentially the go to tool for this task and is synomous with tree removal, cutting logs, and pruning. The Chainsaw is also adept at cutting both unprocessed lumber, efficiently cutting large posts or beams, or landscaping timbers. The Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw provides users with the capacity to complete all these task with the additional convenience and safety of a battery operated saw.

In this Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw Review we’ll highlight the advantages of cordless OPE, like Makita’s ever growing 18V X2 (36V) line. Including Makita’s 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless Blower, check out our review. Cordless Outdoor Power Equipment or OPE has many advantages, but specifically for chainsaws I’m especially impressed by the safety benefits of this cordless version! We’ll explore ALL the advantages in the review below, but first lets get into the Features and Specifications.

Features

• Makita-built Outer Rotor BL Brushless Motor direct-drive system provides high power efficiency equivalent to gas chain saw
• Variable speed trigger (0-3,940 FPM) for easy operation
• Built-in lock-off lever helps prevent the chain from accidentally engaging
• Built-in L.E.D. on/off switch with auto power-off function; automatically shuts the saw off when operation is delayed for extended battery life
• Two 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion batteries deliver power and performance without leaving the 18V LXT® platform (batteries not included)
• Front hand guard engineered to actuate chain brake when engaged
• 14″ guide bar for increased capacity
• Low noise level and zero emissions for operator comfort
• “Tool-less” chain adjustment for convenient operation and maintenance
• Weighs only 11.5 lbs. with batteries (batteries not included) for reduced operator fatigue

Specifications

• Guide Bar Length :14″
• Speed :3,940 FPM
• Pitch :3/8″
• Gauge :.043″
• Battery :2X 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion
• Overall Length :30-1/2″
• Net Weight (with battery) :11.5 lbs.
• Power Type :Cordless
• Shipping Weight :10.5 lbs.
• UPC Code :088381-832731

Alternative to Traditional Gas Powered Saws

The Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is a great alternative to traditional gas powered saws for professionals and homeowners alike. Benefits of cordless battery operated chains saws include no emissions, less noise, and little maintenance compared to gas powered units.

You could get similar benefits with a corded chainsaw, but of course you’ll be tied to the cord and it’s power source. With the amount of maneuvering needed for many chainsaw tasks a cord can be cumbersome. Additionally, corded tools are a liability in wet environments.

Makita’s 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is better suited for damp environments and requires no gasoline, no approved safety cans, but does require chainsaw oil to lubricate the blade. The chain is oiled automatically during operation, but must be filled with 200 millimeters of oil prior to use. For storage, the saw should be cleaned the chain and bar lubricated under no load, then the oil drained. The rate of oil can be easily changed with the adjusting screw located on the bottom of the saw.

The two 18V batteries power the saw with 36-Volts that allow the tool to start up instantly. No struggle with a pull cord to get the tool started. No noise when the tool is powered on unless the chain is engaged and even then there are zero emissions during operation. The convenience of a battery operated chainsaw makes it less intimidating for homeowners. The inherent safety associated with cordless tools versus gas powered tools is a great advantage for contractors.

Safety

The Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw starts instantly preventing the frustration of a pull start gas powered tool. This frustration could lead to unsafe practices like a drop starting. Not with the Makita Cordless Chain Saw, it starts instantly and when disengaged powers down. These two features ensure painless starting on the ground and safe transport of the saw.

I found the safety trigger on the top of the rear handle to consistently “disarm” the saw when I wasn’t holding the handle with the intent to engage the blade.  This feature prevents any unintentional engagements during transportation. The less time the saw is “running” the safer the operator. Additionally, since the safety disarms the tool, accidental engagements become less likely.

Another safety benefit of the Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is it requires NO gas. Refueling with gasoline requires a safety can for a reason, gasoline is volatile, can harm your skin, and can limit refueling when the saw is hot. Makita’s 5.0Ah batteries on the Dual Port Rapid Optimum Charger refuels in only 45 minutes.

The battery operated tool, with its brushless motor transfers essentially no vibration to the user. The fatigue associated with operating a gas powered OPE is no longer an occupational hazard for landscapers and trades people. Noise associated with these tools is also a hazard for workers. Since switching to a 100% battery operated OPE line up, I haven’t even thought about wearing ear protection while using these tools. Not to say it isn’t recommended, but the point is the noise is dramatically less with tools like the Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw.

Performance

The overall performance and capabilities of this cordless chain saw is impressive. The Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw cuts quickly. At World of Concrete 2017 we witnessed the saw cut faster than a comparable gas powered saw. Of course you won’t get the same run time as a gas powered tool, and this is essentially the biggest trade off.

The 5.0Ah powered saw with limited torque feels safer than gas powered tool. Kick-back is typically the biggest fear of chain saw users, but these cordless tools can still be bogged down. If your cut isn’t clean or you try to force the blade through material the saw experiences a noticeable degradation in performance.

Run times will vary dramatically depending on tasks. You can expect to only get a dozen or so cuts out of large diameter hardwood logs. Which for a lumberjack would be unacceptable, but for light landscaping and cutting large timbers you can expect around 2o cuts maybe more. Either way you’ll want to have a back up pair of batteries ready to go and a power source to get your spent batteries back on the charger ASAP.

Overall Impression

The Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is a great addition to Makita’s OPE line up. Whether you are a landscaper, general contractor, or homeowner the capability paired with the quiet convenience of a battery operated tool makes this a unique offering. This tool adds the ability to work with zero emissions and very little noise, with the added safety of an electric motor. My overall impression is great, but this may not be the best choice for all chainsaw users.

I believe this tool is safer and easier to operate and maintain than gas powered options. A home run for light users of chainsaws, but perhaps still not up to the task for heavier users. The lower noise, lower vibration, and no volatile fuel source cannot make up for the lack of run time. Compared to gas powered chainsaws, the two 18V 5.0Ah batteries cannot keep up.

Still the Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is an impressive tool and great option for contractors and homeowners alike. I think the inherent safety and convenience of the tool will make this a more common sight on the job for deck builders, post and beam builders, and even some landscapers!

Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 14″ Chain Saw is a post from Tool Box Buzz

LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner Review

LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner gets its name from the primary ingredient used to power away surface stains from your hands and skin. Pumice, a by-product of volcanic activity, combined with cleaning and moisturizing agents cleans and softens hard working hands.

We are excited to do a LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner Review and see how much better the pumice powered soap performs over conventional soaps.

I do a lot around the house to maintain it. From carpentry, to lawn care, to painting. With a young family and a full time job I have to maximize my time spent keeping the house in good order. That’s code for, I work quick and dirty! Emphasis on the dirty.

Removes Grease and Oil

If you use tools around the house, you probably have to clean them from time to time. I use 3-in-ONE Multipurpose Oil to keep my tools clean and operating properly. As important as this maintenance is to my tools, I don’t have a ton of time to do it. So when I get the chance I work quick and am NOT shy with the oil. This leaves me with dirty, oily, and stinky hands. LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner removes grease and oil with ease, and does an excellent job removing the stench from my hands.

Grease and oil is like a magnet for dirt and grime. Oil gets into your skin and deeply stains hands, finger nails, and pores. LAVA Soap removes grease and oil with the exfoliation of the pumice and deep cleaning agents to remove embedded stains and smells that conventional soaps struggle with.

Removes Dirt

LAVA Soap removes dirt that can get worked into your hands from real dirty jobs like landscaping or outdoor tool maintenance with ease. Working with a lawn mower can expose you to some grease but mostly dirt. Landscaping in general tends to cake and stain my hands and skin with dirt making clean up a little tougher.

LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner removes dirt much faster and with fewer washes, I found, than conventional soaps. Typically, I’ll wash and rinse my hands once, then repeat to get rid of those tough embedded dirt stains. I love that LAVA Soap expedites my clean up so I can actually enjoy my free time around the house.

Removes Paint

Paint is messy. Rushing painting only makes it worse. Given the short amount of time I have to finish my home improvements, even painting doesn’t get a pass on my “get it done now and clean up later” approach. Without LAVA Soap I’d probably get a lot of looks at the store or at a BBQ with my stained hands… Luckily for me LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner removes paint!

Before this review I knew LAVA Soap removed grease, oil, and dirt extremely well. I was skeptical about LAVA Soap for paint removal, the pumice seemed like too light of an aggregate to power away paint. I was definitely wrong. Once the LAVA Soap got a decent lather, the combination of the cleaning agent and the pumice literally wiped the paint from my hands!

Overall Impression

Working fast around the house can make a mess, luckily LAVA Soap keeps my clean up quick too. Any soap can remove dirt, but you can spend a lot of time trying to remove grease, oil, and paint with conventional soap. Even worse, a conventional soap, can make your hands look clean, but they can still smell like grease or oil. Not with LAVA Soap. My overall impression of the soap is that it provides a significant added value over conventional soaps.

A surprising bonus of using this soap is the moisturizing characteristics. I don’t do much moisturizing, surprise surprise, but I’ve definitely suffered dry and cracking hands in the winter. I’m definitely going to keep this soap under the sink for quick clean up after messy work around the house and an extra in my toolbox!

LAVA Soap Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Post sponsored by 3-IN-ONE Oil; however, all views expressed below are my own.

Basic Tool Maintenance with 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil

Regular tool maintenance rarely seems to be regular. Often it isn’t until you start to notice rust on a piece of equipment before maintenance becomes a priority. Well basic tool maintenance with 3-in-One multipurpose oil simplifies this task. This simple basic tool maintenance how-to will show you the few tools and supplies you need to quickly refurbish tools.

3-in-One gets its name from it’s inventor George W. Cole for the oils ability to clean, lubricate, and protect. 3-in-One has been a staple in my basic tool maintenance since I learned to sharpen my first plane. 3-in-One multipurpose oil is great for removing surface rust, keeping moving parts smooth, and is a rust inhibitor. With these basic tools you can quickly prep, clean, and protect your tools.

Basic Supplies:

• Chip Brush
• Steel Wool
• Sandpaper (100 & 220 Grit)
• Stainless Steel Bristled Brush
• Brass Bristled Brush
• Rags
• 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil

Prep Tools

Before you bust out the oil, you’ll want to prep your tools first. Basically you want them to be free of dirt, dust, etc. For most tools, this consists of a quick wipe down with a mild cleaning agent or at a minimum a damp rag. Anything that creates dust, like saw dust, will need a little extra attention. Dirt and dust do not mix well with oil and if you are maintaining your tools build up of dust is a great place to start.

Removal of saw dust from tight spaces with Chip Brush.

I like to use a chip brush to prep tools, these little guys get into tight spaces and do a great job of mechanically removing dust. If you have access to compressed air, a quick blowing finishes the job. I’ll often use my 18-Volt Cordless Leaf Blower as a substitute. After some serious airflow, your tools are pretty much dust free and ready for oil.

Identify Rust

Basic Tool Maintenance with 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil is simple as long as you keep it simple. Sure I’ll give the whole tool a “once over” with a rag, but in general I’m attacking problem areas. So as you check the operation of a tool, dials, and adjustments note areas that need lube and identify rust. The gallery below highlights some areas I want to address and prevent the spread  of rust on my tool. I also identified some rust on the shoe plate. (Not shown)

Surface rust on rafter hook.

Rust on Depth Adjustment.

Apply 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil

You can apply 3-in-one multipurpose oil directly to the surface you want to clean, but I like to use that chip brush to quickly spread the oil over large surfaces. This makes for quick application. Also you can spread the oil in advance so you could end up using less oil and this saves you some time. No need to repeatedly pick up and put down the oil for applications directly from the bottle throughout the cleaning. I’ll load the chip brush with oil, then distribute oil to moving parts, and use the telescoping marksman spout to get to hard to reach areas.

Loading chip brush with 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil.

Distribute 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil on metal parts, using Chip Brush.

Applying 3-in-One Oil to hard to reach moving parts with Telescoping Marksman Spout. 

Remove Rust with Sandpaper, Steel Wool, and Brushes

3-in-One Multipurpose Oil is a great solvent but you’ll need some abrasives to remove scaling and rust. Depending on the condition of the metal the following are listed from most aggressive to most delicate. 100 Grit Sandpaper, for aggressive deep rust removal. 220 Grit Sandpaper, for fast removal of heavy surface rust and scaling. Stainless Steel Bristled Brush, for a targeted but abrasive rust removal. Brass Bristled Brush, for gentle softer surface removal and burnishing. Steel Wool, for gentle removal and polishing of metal.

Deep rust removal with 100 Grit Sandpaper.

Removal of rust in shoe plate detailing with Stainless Steel Bristled Brush.

Surface rust removal and polishing of Combination Square Ruler with Steel Wool.

Protect Tools with 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil

Once you’ve refurbished your tools with oil on moving parts and removed all rust with methods above give your tools one last wipe with a rag to ensure they are clean. At this point I like to brush on a final light coat of 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil and give the product some time to work into the tool. Finally I finish with a light polish using a clean rag.

Applying a light coat of 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil to rust free metal.

Combination Square Head polished with a clean rag.

By doing a quick re-application of the product you can protect tools with 3-in-One Oil. You’ll be doing a final wipe down of your tool to clean off the rust and scaling you just removed anyway. With a final coat of 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil, a corrosion inhibitor, you’ll prolong the time between your next cleaning. But after this experience we hope you’ll see basic tool maintenance as an easy chore! Now all is left to do is clean up, we use Lava Soap, check it out here!

Tool Maintenance its 3-in-One Multipurpose Oil is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Makita 18V Sub-Compact Brushless Drill XFD11ZB and Impact Driver XDT15ZB Tool Review

As a carpenter I’ve had to install truss loks on LVLs one day and hardware on custom cabinets the next day. I ran an 18V system for framing and general tasks, but used a compact 12V drill and driver for punch list work and cabinet installs. Even if the tools were the same manufacturer, I was still stuck charging two different sets of batteries, until now.

New Class in Cordless

My first impression of the Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver was that these tools were going to cannibalize Makita’s 12V line with this addition. But “Research on commercial and residential job sites showed us that many contractors own both 12-volt and 18-volt tools, and if a job requires the power of a 12-volt tool then they’ll definitely reach for the most compact tool first,” said Carlos Quintana, Sr. Product Manager, Cordless, Makita USA.

Looking at this venn diagram any contractor that fits into the middle section requires both a heavy duty cordless capability and a compact lightweight capability. This is a dangerous space as the preference for a lightweight tool puts these 12 volt tools in underpowered situations. With the new 18V LXT Sub-Compact platform, Makita has created a powerful compact class of tools. Effectively creating new class in cordless tools, not displacing one!

When I took the drills out for the first time I thought Makita was taking advantage of the popularity of the custom all black versions of the tools available on the market. Like the green, pink, and white impacts you see and envy on instagram. So I thought Makita made these all black just to look cool. But this was intentional to distinguish these 18V tools from their similarly sized 12V line. And bonus, the all black does look really cool! Anyway let’s take a look at the features and specs before we talk performance.

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Features

• Driver-Drill weighs only 2.8 lbs. with battery with 6-3/8″ length
• Impact Driver weighs only 2.6 lbs. with battery with 5-5/16” length
• Assist Mode (A-mode) feature helps eliminate “screw cam-out” and “cross threading” by driving at low speed until impact begins
• Ideal for work in tight spaces
• Electronically-controlled BL Brushless Motor
• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT)
• Compact 2.0Ah battery BL1820B reaches full charge in 25 minutes or less
• Rapid Optimum Charger
• Equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls(TM)
• 3-year limited warranty on tool, battery and charger

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Specifications

Sub-Compact 1/2″ Drill

• Model: XFD11ZB – Sub-Compact Brushless ½” Drill (tool only)
• Capacity (steel): ½”
• Capacity (wood): 1-7/16”
• No Load Speed: 0-500, 0-1,700 RPM
• Max Torque: 350 in.lbs.
• Battery: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion
• Overall Length: 6-3/8”
• Net Weight: 2.8 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery, sold separately)

Sub-Compact Impact Driver

• Model: XDT15ZB – Sub-Compact Brushless Impact Driver (tool only)
• Hex Shank: ¼”
• No Load Speed: 0-1,300, 0-3,000 RPM
• Impacts Per Minute: 0-1,600, 0-3,900 IPM
• Max Torque: 1,240 in.lbs.
• Battery: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion
• Overall Length: 5-5/16”
• Net Weight: 2.6 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery, sold separately)

Makita Sub-Compact Performance

I’ve been using the Makita drills and drivers for years, so I’m pretty comfortable with these tools. The sub-compact series are very similar with no serious surprises. The impact does lack a quick connect collar, which is a little disappointing, but I got used to it. Overall the performance is impressive for a such a small tool.

The 18V tool with it’s compact brushless motor hits a sweet spot of 1,240 lbs. of max torque from a small tool. For comparison Makita’s 12v impact delivers 970 lbs. of  max torque, not enough punch for heavy duty applications, but perfect for lightweight tasks. While the standard 18V impact has a max torque of 1,550 lbs. from a larger heavier driver.

Overall I found this great for light duty tasks, but when needed easily drove 3-inch screws in dense heartwood framing lumber. The compact 2.0 Ah ensure the tool is light and small, but with the availability of the larger 18V amp hour batteries I could switch to a 5.0Ah battery and have the runtime and power to complete more repetitive heavy duty tasks. For a remodeler or non-framer carpenter this tool could satisfy 85-90% of my needs.

Makita 12-Volt or Makita Sub-Compact?

Makita is all about keeping their users on a consistent platform. Carlos Quintana, Sr. Product Manager, Cordless, Makita USA summarizes this idea perfectly. “18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless tools give contractors the compact size of a 12-volt tool while remaining in the 18-volt battery platform”. This is the key take-away of this product launch and after using it for a few months I haven’t touched my 12 Volt drill or driver. So it’s safe to say if you give the sub-compact tools a try, you may never go back. Unfortunately, it seems like Makita won’t be releasing any other tools anytime soon.

Overall Impression

We’ve been using the complete Sub-Compact combo kit (CX200RB) that includes two 18V LXT Compact Lithium-Ion 2.0Ah batteries, Rapid Optimum Charger, and the classic Makita tool bag. These tools conveniently fit in my finish bag and have become my everyday drill driver. The 2.0Ah batteries and brushless motors keep me away from my charger for days during light duty, punchlist type work.

I love the integration with the 18 Volt line, I have a lot of those tools so battery compatibility is key. When running a 12 Volt compact drill driver I’d have to manage two battery platforms. One battery with the industries fastest charge time is a good deal to me.

I’d recommend anyone currently using Makita’s 18V line to get at least one of these tools, depending on which one makes sense for your applications. This kit is really awesome and the combo of the two tools could change your perception of compact tools.

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver Video Review

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Timberland PRO® Workwear Review from Head to Toe

Timberland PRO® takes their commitment to quality and innovation from a long history of rugged work boots and shoes to workwear. Their Workwear line was launched just a few short years ago. Already the expansion of this line appears to be influencing the brand as a whole.

The Timberland PRO® Workwear line of safety work boots expands with one of the best boots we’ve worn out of the box. The Gridworks 8″ Waterproof Alloy Safety Toe is a really exciting piece of footwear for our crew. The evolution of the Timberland PRO® Workwear is evident in The Gridflex Canvas Work Pant. Easily one of the best built pair of work pants available. Definitely designed to stand up to the abuses of construction sites.

If you haven’t considered Timberland PRO® Workwear to replace another piece of gear that falls apart, you should. We’ve been wearing Timberland PRO® since the launch of the product line and will continue to buy and wear this gear for years to come.

Baluster Work Jacket

A jacket has to do a few simple things to keep me happy in the cold. Keep me warm, keep me dry, and not fall apart after a few months on the job. Bonus if I can maintain some freedom of movement and agility while bundled for the cold. The Baluster Work Jacket answers the mail on all these things and has become my go to jacket on the job.

• 12-Ounce Cotton Canvas
• Water-repellent finish
• Quilted nylon lining
• Stand-up collar 
• 80 to 100-gram insulation
• Two zip chest pockets
• Two lower front pockets
• Inside Chest Pocket 
• Oversized locker loop at center back 
• MSRP $110

Since a hard hat is a standard piece of PPE for me, the standard hooded jacket doesn’t work, so I reach for the Baluster. I can layer with a thinner more flexible hoodie to wear under my hard hat. With the oversized “locker loop”, as I warm up and need to shed a layer I can hang this jacket almost anywhere.

The Baluster Work Jacket features a familiar 12-ounce heavy duty cotton, triple stitching, and quality reinforced rivets. Timberland has a long track record for making quality footwear and their industrial line of workwear is following suit with the tradition of quality, comfort, durability, and innovative design.

Gridflex Canvas Work Pant

Pants always have the shortest life-span in my collection of work wear. Walking through mud and puddles, constant kneeling, and the impromptu wiping of silicone, dirt, and grease. Work pants are on the front line of getting things done,  Bottom line, pants take the brunt of abuse on the job-site. The Gridflex Canvas work pant design addresses all the classic vulnerabilities of the work pant.

Reinforced back-hem kick plates are in place for added durability in a typically, high wear location.  This area of the pant is where water wicks up the back heel of the pants and accelerates the deterioration of the material. Reinforced triple stitching, heavy duty rivets, and flexible cotton canvas makes these pants job-site ready. The articulated knees are overlaid with a second layer of fabric, for extra durability, which helps prolong the life of a critical wear point. Furthermore, the innovative stitching provides additional freedom of movement.

I’ve worn and wore through a lot of pants. These so far have risen to the top of the heap, although I prefer a hammer loop on all my work pants. The quality of materials and workmanship on the pants make up for it. But I’d still love to see this detail on future generations of Gridflex pants.

• Cotton/Spandex Blend
• Cotton/Nylon Overlays
• Articulated Knees 
• Crotch Gusset
• Tool, phone and coin pockets
• MSRP $60

Gridworks 8″ Alloy Toe Work Boots

The Gridworks 8″ Waterproof Alloy Safety Toe out of the box is one of the best work boots I’ve worn. Timberland PRO® has addressed critical failure points with tried and true designs. While bringing back some classic features like a shank in the sole of the boot for structural support, great for long periods on a ladder. While using advanced technology to provide superior comfort, like mesh linings with antimicrobial treatments to help with odor control.

• Waterproof Leather
• Waterproof Membrane
• Asymmetrical Alloy Safety Toe
• Fiberglass shank for structural support
• Dual-purpose cast-metal top hardware
• Mesh linings with antimicrobial treatment
• Anti-Fatigue Technology
• All-weather TPU Outsoles
• Oil-, Slip- and Abrasion-Resistant
• MSRP $195

Forming the sole of the boot is a special thermoplastic urethane (TPU) compound which maintains flexibility even in extreme cold. Providing enhanced traction on wet and even frozen surfaces. The rugged sole is composed of three distinct layers terminating and layering extra thick with the TPU.

The laces are braided, but not the strongest weight material. The lace loops are heavy duty, especially the top hardware, made of cast-metal. The laces are the only noticeable vulnerability on the shoe, but with such a tall 8″ height, laces should be hanging well above any potential hazards.

The boot features a lightweight asymmetrical shaped toe cap. The asymmetrical alloy safety toe is reminiscent of another Tool Box Buzz favorite work boot. One common failure point on a work boot is the wearing of the toe from the drag it experiences during work performed while kneeling. Not only does the alloy toe protect your feet but also prolongs the life of the boot.

Timberland PRO® Workwear Earns the Trust of the Pros

Timberland PRO® boots have been on the feet of our crews for years. The more junior Workwear line has been on our backs for just a few years now, but from head to toe we trust Timberland PRO® to keep us dry, comfortable, and when needed, warm because it lasts. As we wrote before, if you haven’t tried Timberland PRO® Workwear or boots, what are you waiting for?

Trust the Pros.

Timberland PRO® Workwear is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hitachi WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver Kit

Last week Hitachi announced the release of their WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver. This week we here at Tool Box Buzz got a chance to look at the WH18DBDL2 kit. The kit includes the “Triple Hammer” driver, 18V rapid smart charger, two compact 3.0Ah batteries, and an interesting two compartment case. The rugged plastic case holds the aforementioned with a separate compartment for bits and accessories.

The WH18DBDL2 “Triple Hammer” features a triple anvil that delivers 1832 in/lbs of torque and 4,000 max beats per minute. The two compact 3.0Ah batteries, have the same capacity of the standard BSL1830 3.0Ah batteries with 0.6lbs less weight and 3/4″ less height. These two features make this kit a formidable driver on any jobsite, we’ll put this driver to the test to see how it’ll hold up, but first lets look at the specifications and features.

Specifications and Features

Specifications

• Voltage: 18
• Battery Type: Lithium Ion / Slide Pack
• Battery: Compact 3.0Ah
• Torque: 1,832
• No-Load Speed: 0-2,900 RPM
• Impact Rate: 0-4,000 BPM
• Drive: 1/4″ Hex
• Motor: Brushless
• LED Light: Yes
• Weight: 2.9 lbs
• Warranty: Lifetime Tool / 2-Year Battery

Features

• Covered by Hitachi’s Lifetime Lithium Ion tool warranty & 2-Year Lithium Ion battery warranty
• Triple Hammer Technology (via incorporating a third impacting anvil)
• Features Brushless Motor Technology
• Powered by Hitachi’s new Compact 3.0Ah Lithium Ion slide-type battery
• Produces 1,832 in/lbs of turning torque, 0-4,000 BPM and up to 2,900 RPM
• 4-Stage electronic speed switch
• IP56 Certified
• 1/4″ hex chuck
• Limited and Continuous impact modes
• Responsive variable speed trigger
• Built-in LED light
• On-tool battery indicator
• Reversible metal belt hook
• Ergonomic grip, center balanced design and lightweight at 2.9 lbs
• New rapid charger that features a USB port to charge mobile devices
• New two compartment carrying case

Feel and Ergonomics

The feel and ergonomics of this driver is reminiscent of top of the line drill drivers. The grip is comfortable and the tool is well balanced. The compact 3.0Ah lithium ion batteries that accompany this kit reduce the height of the tool by almost an inch and cuts the weight by over 1/2 a pound. The feel and ergonomics of this driver is great, but there are a few kinks in the armor.

The forward, reverse, lock button is easy to access at the throat of the handle. Although this switch is very thin, ridged, and protrudes a 1/4″ from the tool. Although very intuitive to find and manipulate, the switch is noticeable at all times on my trigger finger, amplifying this small detail to a larger nuisance.

The other small critique I have regarding the feel and ergonomics is the location of the 4-Stage electronic speed switch and the right hand belt hook. The switch is right between the hook and slide pack release tab making quick speed changes difficult and definitely clumsy with a gloved hand.

Premium Features

The Hitachi WH18DBDL2 “Triple Hammer” is loaded with premium features. From the brushless motor, compact 3.0Ah lithium ion batteries, and rapid charger, this driver is going to hold its weight on any jobsite as far as performance goes.

But for better or for worse what gets users attention is the premium features, like LED Light with three settings, variable speed trigger, 4-Stage electronic speed switch, belt hook, integrated lanyard, quick release 1/4″ hex chuck, charger with USB port, and some of the fastest charging batteries on the market!

Needless to say this tool on paper can hold its own with the highest end drivers out there. Sexy features coupled with smart battery technology, Hitachi’s Multiplex Protection Circuit, makes this an extremely well designed driver. The achilles heel of the driver, limiting the professional grade rating for this tool, is the durability of the batteries.

Durability

The overall durability of the Hitachi WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver is professional quality. Very sleek, but slightly more utilitarian in design than some other premium tool brands, but this could be negligible regarding the ruggedness of the driver. The forward, reverse, lock switch again is the only noticeable design issue that could cause major issues in the event of a drop. But what is most concerning is the durability of the Compact 3.0Ah Batteries.

The rapid charger with fan cooling system allows the batteries to charge quickly without overheating. The technology is pretty straightforward and path of the venting air is obvious on the battery. The charger forces air thorough a fan facing the charging battery which accepts air through a slotted/screened opening in the battery. The air is exhausted through another slotted/screened opening at the rear of the battery.

These vents are likely to be obscured by dust, dirt, or other debris during the regular use of the tool in rough conditions. Worse is the ability for water to get to the internal components of the battery. The driver itself (WH18DBDL2) has an IP56 rating, but the certification applies only to the main unit. As Hitachi explains on their website, “Dust and water resistance of the battery is not covered by this certification.”

Overall Impression

The WH18DBDL2 Triple Hammer Impact Driver delivers best in class performance. Clocking in at 1832 in/lbs of torque and 4,000 max beats per minute. The third anvil not only delivers this exceptional performance, but also reduces vibration to the user.

I typically carry a competitors brushless driver and head to head this driver has enough brute power to edge out my driver on common tasks. The Hitachi WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver buried screws in a heartbeat and drove heavy duty fasteners with ease. The 4-Stage electronic speed switch is not as sophisticated as competitors technology but it allows you enough flexibility to dial in the performance of the drill.

Overall this is a very powerful, convenient, and easy to operate driver. It has everything you could want and more in a professional grade impact driver. Well almost everything. With the battery not sharing the same IP56 certification and exhibiting clear vulnerabilities to water and dust make it only suitable for users in controlled environments. For those of us fighting the elements or working in austere conditions this is not the tool for you.

At a MSRP of $399 this kit is a fair value for users who know they can protect their batteries from excess dust and moisture. In a shop environment this driver can be a beast! Light, compact, and powerful, the Hitachi WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver brings a lot to the workbench.

Hitachi WH18DBDL2 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver Kit Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Introducing the Hitachi Triple Hammer WH18DBDL2 Impact Driver

Last week Hitachi announced the release of the WH18DBDL2 Triple Hammer Impact Driver. This new offering from Hitachi brings true innovation to driver technology. The third anvil delivers tremendous performance, while a slim 3.0Ah battery, and rapid charger improves efficiency of the Hitachi 18V platform. We here at Tool Box Buzz are happy to be introducing the Hitachi triple hammer WH18DBDL2 impact driver.

Third Anvil for MORE Torque and BPM

The Hitachi WH18DBDL2 Triple Hammer Impact Driver delivers 1832 in/lbs of torque and 4,000 max beats per minute. The third anvil, giving the WH18DBDL2 the namesake “Triple Hammer” not only delivers the performance listed above, but also reduces vibration.

The tool also features four speed settings with a no load speed from 0 to 2,900RPM and an impact rate from 0-4,000 BPM. Simply put Hitachi added the third anvil for more torque and BPM!

Compact 3.0Ah Battery

In addition to the “Triple Hammer” performance the tool weighs just 2.9lbs with space saving slim 3.0Ah batteries. These batteries have the same capacity as the of the standard (BSL1830) 3.0Ah but 3/4″ shorter in height and 0.6lbs lighter.

The size and weight savings of the compact 3.0Ah battery coupled with top of the line torque and BPMs of the WH18DBDL2 makes this driver a force to be reckoned with. The battery is also equipped with Hitachi’s Multiplex Protection Circuit to extend the life of the battery.

18V Rapid Smart Charger

This 18V Rapid Smart Charger features a fan that cools the battery during charging to prevent overheating. This technology can replenish an 18V 5.0Ah battery in 32 minutes and a 18V 6.0Ah battery in 38 minutes. The fast charging time is extremely impressive compared to the field, which makes this platform a formidable option for the most demanding tasks even without considering the WH18DBDL2.

Want to read more?

Hitachi’s 18-Volt Platform has delivered reasonable performance, durability, and fair pricing for professional tools. Now with Hitachi releasing their WH18DBDL2 Triple Hammer Impact Driver with exciting performance metrics on an evolving platform. We are excited to evaluate this tool, so look out for a review soon. If the driver checks out this may be a worthwhile choice for not only an impact driver, but also maybe a cordless platform. Intrigued? Check out our review!

Hitachi WH18DBDL2 Triple Hammer Impact Driver is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Makita 18V X2 LXT Lithium Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw

Our friends at Makita sent us their new Makita 18V X2 LXT Brushless Recipro Saw to review here in the shop. This brushless reciprocating saw combined with Makita’s latest 6.0Ah battery was the perfect storm for an endurance test. With this reveiw we hope to give readers a practical expectation for the runtime of this tool.

This 18V X2 Lithium-Ion tool is one of 11 tools Makita offers that offers users the benefit of two batteries. The 18V X2 line provides an extended runtime with additional power. The reciprocating saw is the perfect candidate for this technology, given this tools’ heavy duty applications.

Makita went all in pairing the 18V X2 (36V) package with a brushless motor and refined crank mechanism. These advancements increased runtime and reduced vibration for the user. Cordless reciprocating saws are a tough sell for anything more than light duty applications. But the Makita 18V X2 LXT Lithium Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw is a viable replacement for a corded saw.

Features and Specifications

Features:

• Powerful BL Brushless Motor
• 0-3,000 (metal cutting) and 0-2,300 (wood cutting) strokes per minute for faster cutting
• 1-1/4″ stroke length provides increased cutting efficiency
• Two 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Batteries deliver the power and performance of a corded recipro saw without leaving the 18V LXT® platform (batteries not included)
• Refined crank mechanism design minimizes blade deflection and reduces vibration
• The BL Brushless Motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
• Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
• The electronically-controlled BL Brushless Motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
• Large two-finger varible speed trigger for operator convenience
• “Tool-less” blade change system allows for faster blade installation and removal for increased productivity
• L.E.D. light with preglow and afterglow to illuminate the work area
• Retractable tool hook secures the tool when not in use
• Electric brake for maximum productivity

Specifications:

• Length of Stroke : 1-1/4″
• Max. Cutting Capacity (wood w/ 12″ blade) : 10″
• Max. Cutting Capacity (pipe) : 5-1/8″
• Strokes Per MInute (var. 2 spd.) : 0 – 2,300 / 0 – 3,000 SPM
• Battery : 2X 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion
• Overall Length : 17-3/4″
• Net Weight (with battery, sold separately) : 10.2 lbs.
• Variable speed control dial : No
• Built-in clutch : No
• Orbital settings : No
• Power Type : Cordless
• Shipping Weight : 9.3 lbs.

Runtime Testing

We ran fresh 6.0Ah batteries on a brand new 18V X2 LXT Lithium Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw against a stack of four 2 x 6 KD stock with the last board embedded with four 16 Penny Brights. We used an Industrial Bi-Metal 9” x 6 TPI blade from Makita. This Swiss made blade is ¾” wide by .050” thick and designed for nail embedded wood.

To simulate common reciprocating saw use, we ran the saw four times through our 2 x 6 stack, which resulted in about 2-3 minutes of continuous cutting then pausing for 30 seconds to rest. We ran a single blade during the test, never changing it out for a fresh one.

We believe the pause between longer bouts of cutting is a realistic and fair way to evaluate the saw’s runtime. Futhermore our material selection reflects real world applications where you’ll be cutting through two-by lumber, often embedded with fasteners. Ultimately we wanted to provide readers with a realistic expectation of runtime.

With this methodology the tool never deactivated due to overheating, the 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw is equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls to protect against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating. The test ultimately ended when we drained the batteries of juice.

Performance

18V X2 LXT Lithium Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw equipped with two fully charged 18V 6.0Ah batteries made 165 cuts through 2 x 6 KD lumber and cut through 164 16d nails. Needless to say this saw with 6.0Ah batteries has plenty of gas in the tank for everyday use.

The two 6.0Ah batteries we tested with, could certainly be stretched to gut a kitchen or bathroom. Still I don’t see this being an effective use of your batteries and charge time if you’re doing a major demolition or taking down a small wood framed building. But for most users and most applications this tool’s performance is more than adequate to replace a corded model.

Vibration and Control

The 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw is compact. The X2 batteries on the rear of the tool add some heft to the back, but during operation it feels balanced and easy to control. The vibration on the tool is noticeable but not overwhelming.

This tool does NOT have the AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) that Makita is known for, so don’t expect an easy, vibration free ride. Furthermore this saw, much like many of its competitors, does not have an orbital adjustment so you may spend more time behind the saw than you want. Given the one size fits all orbital setting, you won’t get an aggressive cut, but you will have a fairly comfortable ride.

Ergonomics and Comfort

As I mentioned above the tool is pretty compact, 17-3/4” long (not including the blade), with a slim throat before the blade. The tool weighs just over 10 lbs with two batteries.

The trigger on the tool is set 3/8” further from the base of the handle. It protrudes about another 5/16” in the off position and is about flush at the 3/8″ protrusion when fully depressed. Designed to be a large “two-finger” variable speed trigger it is not super comfortable during continuous operation. I would have preferred a trigger tucked in closer to the handle that becomes flush with the handle when fully depressed. The ergonomics of the handle is poor and after depressing the trigger for almost an hour, comfort was out the window. We also noticed a good amount of slop at the top of the trigger, a potential catch for a glove or place for dust and debris to build and cause issues down the road.

During extended operation of this tool, gloves are a must. Despite doning a new pair of gloves my hand become pretty uncomfortable from the excessive heat. If you are using this tool for demo and plan to run it for a long time you can expect it to feel the burn. The heat was bearable with a gloved hand, but no way you’d want to hold on to this tool after running it for an hour or so at the rates we tested it.

Premium Features

The 18V X2 Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw has some much anticipated premium features. First and foremost an efficient Brushless Motor. Second the bells and whistles you expect from a top tier tool.  A well placed L.E.D. light, retractable hook, variable speed trigger, and electronically controlled motor to name a few.

The L.E.D. light actually shines through the shoe of the Recipro Saw ensuring visibility of the blade and the work piece. The electronically controlled Brushless Motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application balancing. From simple nice to have features, to advanced performance enhancing electronics this saw is definitely a premium tool.

The saw also features an electronic brake, that ceases the reciprocating action of the tool in less than 1/2 second. I’d probably put it close to 1/4 of a second but the brake works so well it’s hard to time such a brief moment. Regardless this feature ensure productivity and safety for the user, which is a huge premium in our book.

Overall Impression

This is hands down one of the best cordless reciprocating saws you can buy right now. A huge gas tank, premium features, and at a kit price of about $400 (XRJ06M) is a solid value considering the cost of each item separately.

Makita’s 18V X2 LXT Lithium Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw dominated our endurance test. Walking away from this test made it clear this cordless saw has the power and the endurance to work for you all day in most everyday applications.

Dedicated and extended operation will require some battery swaps and charging,  you’ll need a lot of batteries to run the tool all day. If you are not running Makita’s 18V line, you may want to go all in if you want to pick up this saw. If you are  going to buy four batteries to get started with this tool, you may just want to switch to Makita’s platform anyway.

The excessive heat generated at the throat of the tool during extended operation is the only significant downside. Ultimately this is a killer addition to the 18V line, a perfect  reciprocating saw for this cordless platform. The high end features and exceptional performance are evident after our endurance test.

Makita 18V X2 LXT Brushless Recipro Saw Review

Makita 18V X2 LXT Brushless Recipro Saw is a post from Tool Box Buzz

STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower

Since 2011 STIHL has been offering cordless outdoor power equipment for professionals and homeowners. So, as battery technology and cordless power tools have evolved, performance of these tools have been leap frogging year after year. So we are excited to take a look at this STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower provided to us for testing by our friends at STIHL.

Today, you can expect high volt batteries to deliver performance fit for heavy duty applications. From running concrete drills and miter saws to chain saws and lawnmowers. With brushless motors and 36-Volt batteries  you get the performance needed for heavy duty tasks like mowing, with a laundry list of benefits that come with battery operated tools like the STIHL RMA 410.

No Fuel, No Fumes, No Pull Cord.

My wife and I recently had our first child. So with our new baby we decided I would continue to work and my wife would stay home full time. With our new responsibilities my wife wanted to help out with some of the chores I typically do around the house. So while I put in extra hours at work, she is planning to take mowing the lawn off my list.

With our gas engine mower, the idea of her dragging it out of storage, fumbling with fuel, starting it with it’s pull cord, and dealing with the noise and fumes, I wasn’t comfortable having her take on this task. But with the STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower weighing only about 45 lbs., emitting far less noise than traditional mowers, with zero emissions, and instant starting, this mower is a game changer for household chores.

Convenient, Lightweight, Easy to Store.

The task of mowing the lawn is the last thing you want to do on the weekend. So, regardless of who’s mowing the lawn, this unit makes quick and convenient work of lawn care.

Powered by a 36-Volt Lithium Ion Battery there is no dealing with the added chore of getting gas, and checking your mower for fuel. And with only a touch of a button and the pull of the switch level this mower starts up fast, every time!

It’s also extremely easy to store. The brushless electric motor and lightweight design of the unit makes it lighter than even the most stripped down gas powered mowers. Plus it folds down with the touch of a button to make finding a place to store the mower easier than you thought.

Premium Features

If the convenience of this mower wasn’t enough. The STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower is also packed with premium features serious landscapers will love. First off, the mower is extremely quiet, a feature typically only offered by high end gas powered units.

Also the deck adjusts with a one handed single action lever, giving you 6 settings from 1″ to 3″ to suit your desired cut height. The adjustment on the deck is smooth but not too lose, you can effortlessly control the height of the deck with one hand. Selecting the appropriate height and securing the mechanism is obvious as you can see the pin catch the desired setting. Clippings are captured with the 14.5 gallon grass catcher, that features a fill indicator to let you know your ready to unload. Hands down this is a high quality mower with premium performance and features. Which unfortunately comes with a premium price.

Performance

Mowing with a unit that exhibits high performance with low weight makes for an effortless mowing experience. What makes mowing small spaces difficult is the frequent stops and turns, so a light agile mower is key. Comparable gas mowers of this weight are stripped down, budget models. The STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower is so light that almost any change in plane, turn, or reversal is effortless.

This model had more than enough juice for our tiny city lot. With limited storage, the ability to fold the unit and hand carry it to a small nook in our basement was not only convenient, but easy. The effort associated with getting the gas mower out of storage is tough enough, let alone the challenge of the pull start. The RMA 410’s push button start got me moving on the actual task of mowing the lawn instantly with no wasted effort.

Specs & Features

Specifications:

• Weight: 18.2 kg (40.1 lbs) w/o Battery
• Area Mowed: Approx. 3,500 sq. ft. w/ AP 180
• Cutting Height: 1.0″ to 3.0″
• Cutting Width: 41 cm (16.1″)
• Grass Catcher Capacity: 55 L (14.5 gal.)
• Power Source: Battery

Features

• Locking Key: Key prevents accidental starting of the motor
• Battery: Lithium-Ion battery power eliminates the mess and expense of fuel mixtures
• Battery Life: No gradual drop in power, so you can work at full speed until battery is depleted
• Power Switch: Instant startup, just push the button and pull the switch lever

Pricing and Availability

The price of the STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower is $379.95. Not bad for a premium mower with all the added conveniences. But don’t forget to add the Battery and Charger. $159.99 for the AP 300 Battery Pack. Plus an additional $79.99 for the AL 300 Fast Charger. All in all, you’re looking at $619.93 to get you started with this mower.

But as Brian Manke, product manager at STIHL Inc. likes to boast “The RMA 410 C has no fuel costs or engine maintenance.” Which can pay off over the life of the mower. Still this is a pricey unit, but as any tool buff will tell you… “you get what you pay for”.

Furthermore, since STIHL products are ONLY sold through servicing STIHL Dealers. With your purchase you can count on people who are knowledgeable, and can service the equipment they sell. A refreshing change from the big box stores. Whom often can’t handle any repairs and can be a headache to deal with when you try to resolve a manufacturer related issues.

And with 9,000 dealers nationwide, you’ll be sure to find a convenient location.

Overall Impression

This is definitely a great unit for a homeowner who wants to save time and can afford the extra cash to invest in a quality lawn mower. Sure, the price is on the high end for a push mower, but remember when you buy into a cordless system you can buy bare tools at lower price. So the battery pack and charger really are an investment. Check out the other cordless tools available from STIHL here.

These mowers still don’t have the legs to mow more than a 1/4 acre. If your lawn is larger than that you’ll need to invest in yet another battery. Aside from the price and limited run time. You need to also be more cautious mowing grass that may be even a bit damp. Even small amounts of water can pose a hazard to the electric motor and it’s operator, aka you!

Overall we love cordless mowers as they bring the convenience and speed of cordless power tools to your landscaping chores. Today’s homeowner is looking for convenience and is willing to pay for it. So we think the STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower, even with a $600+ price tag is worth the dough.

STIHL RMA 410 Battery Powered Lawn Mower is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Timberland PRO^® Workwear

There’s no doubt that you’ve heard of Timberland, especially if you’re from New England. They set the standard 40+ years ago that made the brand synonymous with rugged boots and shoes. In 1999 they launched Timberland PRO^®, a line of great-looking, durable, safety work boots for the professional tradesmen. And, most recently, in August they introduced a line of industrial workwear. The Tool Box Buzz team has been testing some of these products, and today we’re going to share our findings with you.

Since creating their first waterproof leather boot in the 1970’s, Timberland has continued to innovate. The Timberland PRO^® line of safety footwear offers technology that not only improves comfort, but helps workers stand up to anything they encounter on the jobsite. And, if you live in New England, you know the weather is unpredictable and unforgiving. Whether you need a work boot that’s waterproof, insulated, lightweight, slip or abrasion-resistant—you name it—Timberland PRO^® has the footwear solution you need to stay safe and perform your best. It’s no surprise that the brand decided to build upon this momentum and offer workwear, now serving the industrial consumer from head to toe. Timberland PRO^® asked us to test some of their products on the jobsite for a few weeks and our shared opinion is clear: this is great gear. And, here’s why…

The Line

This new line of Timberland PRO^® workwear brings to market a full range of styles, including lighter-weight products like base layers, work shirts and mid-layers. These items are key to helping professional tradesmen and DIYers stay comfortable and protected from the highly variable conditions of working outside. Regardless of whether the product is a soft base layer or a rugged jacket, Timberland PRO^® ensures its garments are always “Built to the Highest Standard.”

There’s one problem with these head-to-toe systems: the technical language can get confusing and overwhelming. Timberland PRO^® has a good solution for this: the hangtags summarize features and benefits using simple iconography to help you identify the important technologies and characteristics of each product. For instance, in looking at the Baluster Insulated Canvas Work Jacket, I checked the label and read: “Durable Water Repellant.” Simple enough, no fancy jargon needed.

The Technology

Timberland PRO^® workwear features nine different technologies to help users find the gear that will work best for them. This includes three types of waterproofing technologies to help you balance your needs, comfort, and performance. Timberland PRO^® also highlights insulated products with a snowflake icon to ensure you can easily determine the gear you’ll want for cold environments. Also, many of their garments are built with an anti-odor fabric “to help stop the growth of odor-causing bacteria,” which not only you, but your co-workers can appreciate.

Understory Fleece Shirt

I am extremely impressed with the Understory Fleece Shirt. This is a solid base layer that is made with pill-resistant fleece and lined with 100% smooth-faced polyester. The stitching is reinforced throughout, and it features a heavy-duty zipper and convenient thumb holes to make the adding and/or removing of layers easy and comfortable.

The back of the fleece drops low to help keep it tucked and minimize exposure to the elements. And, did I mention it’s super comfortable? I can see this being worn every day from the first chill of fall to the cool days of early spring. It’s a wardrobe staple for sure.

Soffit Fleece Pullover

The Soffit Fleece Pullover is a great addition to your wardrobe as a mid-layer option. The ¾-zip fleece pullover features a stand-up collar and textured exterior face to confront jobsite abuses. There is a chest pocket with hook and loop closure, and the zipper is oversized for easy operation when wearing gloves. This extra layer between the base and outerwear is easily added or removed to keep you comfortable while you increase and decrease your activity level on the job.

Baluster Insulated Canvas Work Jacket

The Baluster Insulated Canvas Work Jacket is a heavy-duty offering from Timberland PRO^® that is your quintessential outerwear layer on a worksite. Constructed with a 12-ounce cotton canvas exterior, lined with 80g/100g zoned insulation and treated with a water-repellent finish, this jacket does it all. And, the heavy cotton exterior is tough enough to handle scratching up against unwelcoming surfaces. The jacket features two of your classic front lower pockets—always open for gloves, materials, or fasteners—and has two extra zippered exterior chest pockets to securely hold wallets, keys, or any other important jobsite items. The interior of the jacket also has a pocket with a hook and loop closure to safeguard your more sensitive items.

The sleeves have an elastic-like ribbed knit at the wrist that makes tucking in your gloves easy, an important feature to help prevent skin exposure to weather, debris, and cold temperatures. The exterior sleeve has a slit which allows you to adjust the heavy duty snap buttons to one of two sizes on the sleeve.

Overall, this jacket is simple and rugged. All the fabrics are double, triple, or quadruple stitched and zippers are heavy duty with oversized pulls to make operation easy even with gloved hands. The jacket has an oversized loop for easily hanging on any impromptu jobsite hook, which is a thoughtful feature.

Overlay Canvas Work Pant

These work pants are 100% Cotton Canvas reinforced in all the most vulnerable areas to ensure they last. When it comes to work pants, no one is trying to make a fashion statement. We get dirty as we climb, kneel, and crawl during our work day, and we need pants that are durable and keep us comfortable.

The Timberland PRO^® Overlay Canvas Work Pants feature a knee overlay, pocket binding, and reinforced back hem to prolong the life of the pant. The crotch gusset ensures you won’t rip your pants in the most embarrassing of places and provides that freedom of movement we all need. What we want from a heavy duty pant is not style, but function, and Timberland PRO has designed just that—a functional, long lasting work pant.

Boondock 6″ Waterproof Work Boot

The Timberland PRO^® Boondock 6″ Waterproof work boot definitely deserves the “PRO” label. These boots are built tough to get the job done. I can only imagine the man wearing the boot would quit before the boot itself failed, even in the toughest conditions. One look at this shoe and you recognize the quality and craftsmanship that went into its design and construction.

One simple feature that highlights the quality and design of this boot is the top lacing hardware. You can choose to loop the laces at the top of the boot or hook them based on your preference. The hardware itself is double riveted to the boot and is composed of a heavy duty composite or metal. These high quality materials and thoughtful design features repeat themselves all over this boot.

The composite safety toe is wrapped in abrasion-resistant Ever-Guard^TM leather that is quadruple stitched to the boot. The heel is also protected by the Ever-Guard^TM leather and is riveted to the back of the shoe, where you’ll notice an orange label proudly advertising the boot’s Anti-Fatigue Technology. You can see the soft gray material that rests between the bottom of the shoe and the sole. High-performing work boots like the Boondock have some similarities to running shoes and provide the user a level of unexpected comfort in a work boot.

This boot is designed with so many reinforcements. For example, the leather of the boot itself is waterproof and the inside is lined with a waterproof membrane. This shoe is obviously a boot built for extreme conditions, perfect for guys exposed to the elements in rugged conditions. If you need a heavy duty boot that can take a beating day-in and day-out but keep your feet protected, dry and comfortable, the Timberland PRO^® Boondock is a great choice.

Let me skip all the technology and just say this: I want a boot that works. I want a boot that protects my feet, that keeps me warm, and that will last. Finally, I want a boot that doesn’t leave me tired – the demands of the job are enough. This Timberland PRO^® work boot has delivered in every single case. I can’t recommend it highly enough.

If you’re familiar with Timberland PRO® work boots, my comments above probably don’t come as a surprise to you. And now with the brand’s release of its workwear line, you really can start from the ground up to outfit yourself and your crew with quality gear that is “Built to the Highest Standards”.

Trust the PROs

Our crew has been wearing this gear for a few weeks now and have remarked on the quality construction, thoughtful design details, ease of movement and overall comfort. These clothes are easy to work in. Mobility and durability are two of the most important considerations when purchasing clothing for yourself or for your crew. If you’re going to wear it on the job, it better not slow you down. And, if you’re going to buy it for the jobsite, it better last a long while, because as it turns out, most construction workers aren’t really into “shopping”.

My final takeaways are that Timberland PRO^® workwear is quality, jobsite-ready clothing that will keep you comfortable and protected. With an ample offering of base layer and mid-layers, outerwear and work pants, as well as accessories and an already established work boot collection, Timberland PRO^® is now a complete one-stop-shop for all the gear you need to get the job done.

Visit www.timberlandpro.com to learn more or to find a retailer closest to you.

Timberland, the Timberland logo, Timberland PRO, the PRO logo, and Ever-Guard are trademarks of TBL Licensing LLC or its affiliates. © 2015 TBL Licensing LLC. All rights reserved.

Timberland PRO® Workwear is a post from Tool Box Buzz