JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter Review

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Woodworking Tools
Model number: AFS-850
Price: 699.00
Power source: 120 Volt
Motor size: Brushless: DC, 1/5 HP, 115V
Weight: 31.9 lbs

Why Choose the JET AFS-850?

In the realm of remodeling and construction, the term “livable remodeling” has gained prominence. This approach focuses on delivering building and remodeling services that:

• Reduce Stress: Streamlined processes make the remodeling experience less overwhelming for clients.
• Minimize Health Risks: Effective dust control mitigates airborne dust hazards.
• Ensure Livability: Homes remain comfortable and functional throughout the remodeling process
• Promote Communication and Professionalism: Clear interactions build trust and satisfaction.

Using outdated methods, like a box fan in the window, not only fails to meet modern standards but also violates EPA regulations, which now require certified HEPA equipment to capture and contain dust effectively. A combination of collecting dust at its source, air filtration and dust barriers are the better practices. The JET AFS-850 aligns with these best practices, helping to keep dust from spreading to non-work areas and safeguarding the health of both workers and homeowners.

Summary of Dust Control | Best Practices

1. Set Expectations:
2. Communicate clearly with homeowners about dust control measures.
3. Isolate the Work Area:
4. Use barriers like ZipWall and ZipDoor to seal off the space.
5. Establish Negative Air Pressure:
6. Use air scrubbers to direct dust out of the area or air filters like the JET Filter.
7. Seal Ductwork: Prevent dust from spreading through HVAC systems.
8. Daily Cleanup: Regularly remove dust to maintain a clean environment.

These steps help keep dust contained, protecting other areas of the home and reducing cleanup efforts.

Health Implications of Dust

Dust isn’t merely a nuisance—it poses significant health risks, including:

• Asthma Triggers: Can exacerbate asthma in both children and adults.
• Allergic Reactions: Increases the likelihood of allergic responses.
• Chronic Respiratory Issues: Aggravates conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Effective dust control systems like the JET AFS-850 are crucial in mitigating these health hazards, making it a valuable addition to any job site.

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter | Specifications and Features

• Airflow 850 CFM
• MERV 15 Filter: Efficiently removes dust particles ranging from 0.3 to 10 microns, capturing 98% of particles at 1 micron.
• HEPA Certification: Meets EPA requirements for dust containment.
• Whisper-Quiet: Operates at just 50-68dB, ensuring a peaceful workspace.
• Brushless DC Motor: Offers durability, quieter operation, and higher energy efficiency.
• Auto Mode: Utilizes an integrated PM2.5 sensor to monitor air quality in real-time and adjust motor speed,accordingly, optimizing energy usage and extending filter life.
• Bright LED Display: Clear digital readout for easy monitoring of filter status, fan speed, and timer settings.
• User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls for adjusting settings and viewing operational status.
• Lightweight and Portable: Easy to move around the jobsite with a full-ring handle.
• 15-Foot Power Cable: Provides flexible placement near dust generation areas.
• Filter Status Indicators: Visual alerts for filter condition— “GOOD,” “REPLACE SOON,” or “REPLACE.”
• Blower Speeds: 6 Speeds (190-850 CF
• Timer Settings: 1-16 Hours
• Sound Rating: 50-68 dB @ 3.28 Feet
• Filter Type: MERV 15, Pre-filter (washable), Canister Filter, Optional Charcoal Filter
• Motor Brushless: DC, 1/5 HP, 115V
• Power Cable: 15 Feet
• Weight: 31.9 lbs. (14.5 kg)
• Dimensions: 19.134″ x 19.134″ x 36.575″ (LxWxH)
• Filter Options Charcoal (optional)

Operating the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter

1. Switch the Power ON/OFF to the ON position.
2. Press the on/Off button to start the unit. [not sure why it has a double start button]
3. Choose between manual fan speeds or enable Auto Mode for intelligent air quality management.
4. Use the LED display to keep track of filter status and adjust settings as needed.
5. Set the timer to automatically shut off the unit after a specified period (1-16 hours) This can be useful to continue to filter the air after you leave an area.
6. The intuitive control panel makes it easy to customize settings based on the jobsite’s needs, ensuring optimal dust control with minimal effort.

Our User Experience and Operation

We are firm believers in connecting dust making tools to vacuums. That said to see if the the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter worked well we needed to make some dust.

We set the JET filter up in different situations to test it:

• In a room cutting and routing drywall
• Next to a table saw cutting everything from pine, plywood and MDF.
• In a demo area
• Next to sanding and cutting MDF

In the end the best way to show the filter in action was to place it near us when cutting and sanding MDF cabinet panels. We set the JET Filter to AUTO mode and left it alone. Shortly after cutting or sanding the MDF we could hear the filter motor ramp up and stay high for a period until the proverbial saying “when the dust settled,” or in this case was filtered!

Again, I’m not advocating that you sand or cut MDF without dust collection, my point is that this JET filter is part of the overall solution to cleaner air.

Maintenance and Filter Replacement

Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of the AFS-850 and we noted that after 3 weeks of using the filter we were able to easily clean it with a vacuum.Removing, cleaning or changing out the pre-filter and pleated filter is easy.

Removing or Changing Filter

1. Power Off and unplug the unit.
2. Unlock Fan Head: Place a foot on the base, grasp the ring handle, and turn the fan head counterclockwise.
3. Remove Filters: Lift the fan head and remove the pre-filter and canister filter.
4. Clean or Replace: Wash or vacuum the pre-filter or replace it.
5. Vacuum the canister filter with a brush attachment or replace it if necessary.
6. Reassemble

Its also recommended that you wipe down the integrated PM2.5 sensor clean with a dry cloth or compressed air to maintain accurate auto mode functionality. This sensor is located on the underside of the blower hool.

JET AFS-850 | Pros and Cons

Pros

1. High Filtration Efficiency: MERV 15 filter captures a wide range of dust particles.
2. Quiet Operation: Minimal noise disruption on the jobsite.
3. Smart Controls: Auto mode and intuitive LED display enhance usability.
4. Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to move with a long power cable.
5. Compliance: Meets EPA regulations for dust control.

Cons

1. Price: At $699, it may be a significant investment for smaller operations.
2. Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and filter changes to maintain performance.
3. Weight: Weighing nearly 32 lbs., it may be cumbersome for some users to move frequently.

Price

The JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter can be purchased at ACME Tools

• Jet JT1-229 AFS-850 120V 1 PH 850 CFM Air Filtration System $699.00
• Jet JT1-336 AFS850-016 Inner Filter for AFS-850 – Paper Filter $69.99
• Jet JT1-337 AFS850-CF Activated Charcoal Filter for AFS-850
• $45.99
• Jet JT1-335 AFS850-008 Washable/Re-Useable Pre-Filter for AFS-850 $ 15.99

Conclusion

We liked using the JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter and found it to be a robust and efficient solution for job site dust control, aligning perfectly with the principles of livable remodeling.

Its high filtration capacity, quiet operation, and smart controls make it a valuable tool for contractors who prioritize health, safety, and professionalism. While the initial investment is considerable, the benefits of improved air quality, reduced health risks, and enhanced client satisfaction make the AFS-850 a worthwhile addition to any construction or remodeling toolkit.

By effectively managing dust, the AFS-850 not only ensures a cleaner and healthier work environment but also enhances your reputation as a detail-oriented and professional contractor. This can lead to increased homeowner satisfaction and more referrals, ultimately boosting the quality and quantity of your business.

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter Video Review

JET AFS-850 Mobile Air Filter is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Ryobi Speed Bench Mobile Workstation  – Model STM202

Ryobi Speed Bench Mobile Workstation

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Ryobi
Model number: STM202
Price: $199.00

RYOBI  recently introduced its new Speed Bench Mobile Workstation. This workstation is an innovative 2-in-1 product designed to transform from a mobile 2-wheel cart to a workbench. Ryobi sent us the Speed Bench [Model STM202] to test and evaluate. The new Speed Bench is set to be released this May and will be sold exclusively at the Home Depot. Let’s take a closer look at this unique product and see how it performs.

Ryobi STM202 Specifications

First Impression

There are four things to look for when it relates to a good workstation. They are pre-assembly requirements, durability, portability, and the amount of work surface they provide. Three of these [excluding portability] can be determined right off the bat when unboxing.

Upon first glance, the new Ryobi Speed Bench Mobile Workstation exceeds expectations that are usually connected with Ryobi’s reputation of just being the “power tools sold at the local Home Depot”. Due to the speed bench’s adaptability and well-built design, we feel you might be seeing this innovative mobile workstation on both job sites/workshops as well as in DIY enthusiasts’ garages.

Ryobi has stepped up their game with this new innovative workstation

Transforms From Cart to Workbench

The Speed Bench Mobile Workstation can be set up effortlessly with one fluid motion, allowing users to transport and set up where needed. Simply depress a locking mechanism with your foot and push the cart handle down in one fluid motion. This locking mechanism releases wheels and the table tilts to 180° for use as a workstation.

Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism locks the table upright while also providing support for both the workbench and the cart operations. We found the design of the locking mechanism easy to disengage, just by tapping it with your foot. When done working, the workstation quickly folds into a cart and is easily stored or transported.

Durable Steel Frame

Portability

Solid Wood Work Surface

The Ryobi Speed Cart features a big workbench surface made of Parawood. Parawood is sturdy, resists warping, and provides a firm bench top surface excellent for supporting saws, clamping wood, and a variety of other applications. The surface is large enough to accommodate larger power tools.

The wooden surface measures 42″ wide and 22″ deep. We did not want to put holes in the surface to mount a miter saw with bolts and nuts, we simply used it on flat ground and just had the saw sitting on the work surface. The surface of the workstation was deep enough to hold a 12″ miter saw base without having it overhang.

Perfect for Assembly

“The Ryobi Speed Cart is an excellent mobile assembly table for a variety of projects.” On a recent project, the Speed Bench worked perfectly with the Kreg Jig system to make a headboard. The spacious, solid work surface was ideal for clamping the Kreg Jig clamps to the headboard while fastening. All four sides of the Speed Cart table top have enough space for clamping.

During the same headboard build, the Speed Bench was used as a miter saw stand while cutting the lumber down to size. The surface of the workstation was deep enough to hold the large saw base without having any overhang.

Work Surface Markings

Convenient SAE/Metric measurements and a protractor are printed on the surface for easy reference while working. These lines are good for a quick measurement when a tape measure is not handy.  These lines are black and bold which makes them stand out and are easy to read, even in low-lit areas.

The angles from left to right read 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 75°, 60°, 45°, 30°, and 15°. Additionally, the bottom of the work surface features a 40″ ruler divided into 1/4″ increments. We tested these measurements using our digital angle finder, a rafter square, and a tape measure and they proved to be accurate.

Ryobi Speed Bench Mobile Workstation Video Review

Ryobi Speed Bench Mobile Workstation Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit Review

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit

5/5

Manufacturer: ZipDoor
Price: 98.00
Power source: Dust Barrier System
Weight: 2.4 lbs

This new magnetic door version is designed to seal directly to the door trim or wall or on a plastic dust wall. Zipwall recommends using their double-sided tape which has a gentle adhesive on one side to protect door trim and wall paint, and a stronger adhesive to adhere to the magnetic panel in place.

How To Install the ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit

• Apply double sided tape to the door frame.
• Peel away the paper backing to expose the other side of the tape.
• Position the magnetic panel squarely over the doorway and align it so the bottom firmly touch’s the floor.
• Press panel into the tap., start at the top and then work down the sides.
• If you’re applying the magnetic door to a plastic dust barrier wall, first using a marker, layout and mark the doorway perimeter and then install duct tape around the doorway frame. Follow the exact same directions as we just mentioned. Then cut a slit in the plastic by opening the door. Then cut out the plastic just inside the duct tape,

Reusable Box | What’s In The Kit

What’s neat is that everything you need comes packed in a tough, reusable box. Inside, you’ll find one self-closing magnetic door panel, three rolls of 1″ × 24′ ZipWall double-sided tape (enough for four setups), and a plastic sheeting cutter. The door panel itself is made from high-tech fire-proof fabric.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit | Features

• Easy set up with the double-sided tape
• Reusable
• Covers doorways up to 46″ × 86.”
• Self-closing magnets, ensures your door stays shut.
• Stores in its own box and lives in my van.

Closing Thoughts

Learning how to control remodeling dust and keeping out of the non-remodeled portion of your client’s home is often more important than the quality of your work

The ZipWall system is the ideal dust control barrier and the self-closing feature on the magnets is a hands-free feature and a time saver when your carrying stuff. It cost $98 and if your careful it will last years.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit Video Review

At the end of the day this magnetic door provides remodeler, contractors, DIYers a flexible option that accommodates variously sized door openings and multiple applications. Its professional look to your clients, effective at controlling dust and pays dividends on your initial investment.

ZipDoor Magnetic Door Kit is a post from Tool Box Buzz

~ This article was written by apprentice carpenter Luke Thacker – at Concord Carpenter LLC

Diamondback “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System

Manufacturer: Diamondback
Model number: “The Seven” Deluxe Vest
Price: 579.00

As an apprentice, my mentors are always pushing efficiency. Efficiency is key in our line of work, and finding tools that not only make the job easier but also reduce strain on our bodies is paramount. So I am always looking for the best, most efficient ways to make my job easier, allowing me to produce a better product, while putting less stress on my body.

I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to test out Diamondback’s “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System. This system combines the 701 vest, two pouches called the MULE and the SxS (side by side), a hammer holster, and a flat bar holster.

Key Features of “the Seven” Tool Vest Include:

• Lightweight nylon mesh
• Integrated Tightening-Adjustable Belt
• Shock-absorbing elastic back
• 6 Front Attachment Points
• 6 Rib/Hip Tightening Adjustment Straps
• Hook & Loop Adjustable Shoulder Straps
• Storage Loop
• Lumbar/Shoulder Support Pads

First Impressions

Initially, I didn’t expect much more from the vest than additional pockets—which, of course, are always helpful. However, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s not often you hear a contractor in their prime complaining about back and hip issues. Yet, with traditional waist belts, I could feel the strain on my body after a long day’s work. Bruises on the hips and lower back pain were all too familiar. But after just one day wearing “The Seven” vest, the weight distribution alone made a noticeable difference, relieving the usual discomfort.

Other Benefits of “The Seven” Vest:

• More pockets
• Hammer and catspaw/flat bar holsters
• Speed square slot
• Plenty of places to hook tools

These features set “The Seven” vest apart from traditional tool belts. No longer do I have to cram multiple tools into one pouch due to lack of space. With “The Seven” vest, there’s ample room for all my tools and then some. The addition of holsters for the hammer and catspaw/flat bars was a game-changer. No more hammer smacking against my legs or tools constantly falling out of my bag. The speed square slot also eliminates the hassle of juggling it with other tools. And with numerous spots to hang tools, the vest offers unmatched convenience on the job

Setting up “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System

Setup and Sizing Setting up my tools in “The Seven” vest was a breeze, taking only 15 minutes. The vest’s sizing, with options for M/L and XL, accommodates a wide range of body types.

The sizing of the 701 vest:

The vest is the carry system for the tool bags and accessories, sizing is important as you want this vest to be able to zip over summer and winter clothing.

• The M/L Vest fits waist, torso, and chest sizes 32-44.
• XL fits waist, torso, and chest sizes 42-52.

Despite initial concerns about the waist size (I’m a 30”), the fit with work clothing was perfect. Plus, the vest’s comfortable design ensures no itching or discomfort, even during long hours on the job.

Areas for Improvement

My boss, [Rob]  always asks the question, “how can we improve this process? How can we be better?” In reality, “The Seven” vest leaves little room for improvement, though there are a couple of minor details worth noting:

• Pouches on the front of the vest can sometimes drop bits, sharpies, pencils, and more.
• Adjustable straps may loosen more often than desired.

With the straps, I find myself occasionally re-tightening them to keep them snug, this is really not a deal breaker, but it is a maintenance issue to keep the vest tight to my body. Both Rob [my boss] and Dan [lead carpenter] on our team have also noticed this issue on these vests. Maybe Diamondback can add in something to restrict slippage.

Pricing and Availability

The retail price for “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System is $579 on Diamondback’s website. While it’s a significant investment, the durability and functionality of this system make it well worth the cost for any serious contractor.

When spread over a year, this investment averages out to just $11 per week. If you’re eyeing this tool vest with envy but find the price daunting, consider making small adjustments to your daily expenses. For instance, bringing lunch from home or opting for a travel mug instead of buying coffee can free up funds to afford the vest. Take control of your future; stop letting envy hold you back.

Final Thoughts

It’s only been a few weeks since I started using “The Seven” vest, but I can’t see myself going back to traditional tool belts. Diamondback has truly outdone themselves with this product. The quality and materials ensure a superior product, unmatched by any other brand. As a contractor, having an advanced tool belt like this not only improves performance but also positively impacts my body, promising greater longevity in the trade.

Thank you for reading my first-ever review! I’m excited to continue supporting the advancement of the trades and the #KeepCraftAlive movement.

~Luke Thacker, Apprentice Carpenter on Concord Carpenter Team

Diamondback “The Seven” Deluxe Vest System Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee REDLITHIUM USB Bluetooth® Jobsite Ear Buds

Model 2191-21

Milwaukee USB Jobsite Ear Buds

4/5

Manufacturer: Milwaukee
Model number: 2191-21
Price: $179.99
Power source: Li-Ion

REDLITHIUM USB Bluetooth® Jobsite Ear Buds

Features and Specifications

• Premium In-Ear Audio Provides Powerful and Balanced Sound
• Up to 10 Hours of Runtime on a Single Charge
• Bluetooth® 5.1 Provides up to 55ft of Range
• Phone Call Capable
• Impact Resistant
• Auto Connects to Prior Devices Out of the Case For Grab-And-Go Use
• Passive Hearing Protection Provided by Foam (25 NRR) & Silicone (22 NRR) Ear Tips
• Water and Dust Resistant
• Control Calls and Audio With Easy-to-use Buttons
• 1 Year Limited Warranty
• 2 Year Warranty on REDLITHIUM USB Battery

Fit, Comfort and Use

The Milwaukee USB Bluetooth Jobsite Earbuds come with a large selection of ear tips and ear wings to help users find the best fit. There seems to be quite a bit of negative comments online about the fit of these earbuds and I’ll admit at first I really struggled to find a good fit. However, after trying several different combinations I found them to stay in place nicely even when riding my lawn mower or using the treadmill.

These ear buds come with:

• 3 Pairs of Silicone Ear tips
• 3 Pairs of Foam Ear Tips
• 3 Pairs of Ear Wings
• 3 Pairs of Cover Bands

I found the larger ear wings combined with the largest foam ear tips to work best for me.  Users should try different combinations to find their best fit.

The storage case for the Milwaukee Jobsite Ear Buds also serves as a charging dock. The case is first charged with a USB cord and Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM USB 3.0 Battery. Then, when the ear buds are placed in the case they charge. A lighted perimeter around the ear bud glows green when they are fully charged.

The ear buds are quite easy to control and there’s a handy diagram inside the storage case to remind users of the functions. The left ear bud controls the Jobsite Aware Mode and the right ear bud controls the Bluetooth and Phone call functions. The large size of these ear buds makes the push button activation on the ear buds easy even with gloves on.

Performance on the Jobsite

I find the Milwaukee Jobsite Ear Buds to be comfortable, easy to use and they offer great sound quality. They are definitely larger than some of the other options on the market but the larger size definitely makes the controls easier to use. Also, the case is much larger than traditional buds but that’s due to the on-board battery that charges them when you are away from a power source. The storage case / charger is very robust and built to withstand the demands of jobsite use.

I found the Jobsite Awareness feature to work well allowing me to hear background noise (you can control the volume of it which is very nice). This is extremely important for any type of electronic hearing protection allowing users to be more aware of their surroundings.

Overall Thoughts

Overall I think the Milwaukee USB Bluetooth Jobsite Ear Buds are well built, comfortable and a great solution for all trades. While they are a bit larger than other options, I feel that the build quality is worth the extra size. Some users may struggle with fit in the ear, but after much trial and error I was able to find a good fit.

Priced at $179.99 the price is in-line with quality ear buds. It comes with a USB 3.0 Battery which can also be used on other Milwaukee USB powered tools which is a nice added bonus. For people working in the trades it’s nice to have a more robust option that can handle tough jobsites.

Where To Buy

Milwaukee USB Bluetooth Jobsite Earbuds Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Guardian  C7 Cable Climbing System

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“We designed the System and C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve with the end user as our primary focus. We wanted workers to not only maintain a safe climbing experience but also do so with ease. When used together, the Cable Climbing Sleeve and System makes climbing easier and quicker for a better all-around experience.”

The C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System are qualified to ANSI Z359.16 and OSHA 1910.26 & 1926.1053 when used together and are available in the U.S. and any region following OSHA/ANSI regulatory standards. The Cable Climbing System is available in galvanized steel utilizing a 3/8”, 1×7 strand, galvanized steel solid core cable.

To learn more about the C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System, click here.

Guardian C7 Cable Climbing Sleeve and Cable Climbing System is a post from Tool Box Buzz

KEEN Utility Arvada Work Sneaker

Keen Utility Arvada Work Sneaker

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Keen Utility
Model number: 1027656
Price: 120.00
Weight: 19.08oz / 541g

Keen uses a proprietary mid-sole compression-resisting technology the call KEEN.ReGEN. Keen typically uses this technology on their more athletic style footwear [i.e., Red Hook, Pittsburgh Energy, Arvada] and they claim it returns up to 50% energy with every step.

Wearing the Arvada

While I can’t attest to returning 50% energy, I can tell you that the Arvada has a sneaker-like mesh upper that is breathable and don’t make my feet sweat. Additionally, the sneaker is so comfortable that I forget that it has a carbon-fiber safety toes, and they are lighter than my low-rise leather work shoe with a steel toe.

Another feature I like on the Arvada is the rubber outsole. Keen uses am EH-rated oil-and-slip-resistant rubber outsole.
The Arvada is the first pair of Keen Utility work shoes that I’ve worn that did not seem to need to be “broken in.” They were comfortable day1 and have amazing arch support. For me arch support is important and after a 10-hour day standing, kneeling, and climbing step ladders my arches did not ache at the end of the day.

After wearing the Arvada to work for three weeks, Im impressed and would categorize the Arvada as a light duty construction show. If I were framing or outside in bad elements I’d choose a heavier duty work boot. Having a super comfortable workshoe for interior job site work, and light duty exterior work has been a game changer for me.

Features

• Left and right asymmetrical, non-metallic carbon-fiber toes offer unobtrusive fit and are 15% lighter than steel.
• Reflective webbing for additional safety and visibility
• Nylon shank for midfoot support
• Electrical hazard (EH) or Electric Shock Resistant (ESR) footwear provides a secondary source of protection in case accidentally encountering live electrical circuits.
• Abrasion-resistant synthetic upper
• Mesh liner provides breathability to help keep feet cool in warm environments.
• Removable metatomical PU footbed
• KEEN.ReGEN: A lightweight, compression-resisting midsole providing 50% more energy return than standard EVA foam.
• Oil- and slip-resistant non-marking rubber outsole

Safety Information

• Meets ASTM F3445-21 and F2413-18 M I/75 C/75 EH standards.
• Meets ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip testing standards.
• Meets ASTM SATRA TM31 material abrasion testing standards.
• Outsole and midsole meet ASTM D471-06 903# oil and isooctane chemical resistance standards.

Price and Where T0 Buy

The Keen Utility Arvada work sneaker comes in four color schemes, and sells online here, Keen Utility Arvada, for approximately $120.

KEEN Utility Arvada Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Festool Wireless Bluetooth Earbud Hearing Protection, NRR 25 dBs (Model GHS 25)

Festool GHS 25

5/5

Manufacturer: Festool
Model number: GHS 25
Power source: Wireless

Features and Specifications | Festool Wireless Earbuds

Features:

• Active Noise Cancelling w/ noise isolating microphone
• OSHA compliant
• Conversation mode
• Touch-based controls

Specifications:

• Noise Rating (dB’s): 25 (NRR) / 32 (SNR)
• Connection Type: Bluetooth 5.2
• Element Rating: IP67 (water/dust)
• Battery: 13 hrs (earbuds) / 25 hrs (case)
• Charge Cable: Universal Type-C USB

Design & Comfort

Comfortable Fit

The Festool wireless earbuds (model GHS 25) fit great.  We wore them for multiple days in the shop on the job site for hours at a time and never found them uncomfortable. Unlike other earbuds we’ve used, the molded housing is slightly narrower that the radius if the foam or silicone tips. This means that the plastic isn’t digging into your inner ear over time, keeping them snug yet comfy during prolonged use. This was especially true when wearing them with other safety headgear like safety glasses, welding helmet or grinding shield.

The GHS 25’s also come with a variety of foam tips to adjust to ear canal size for any user. Festool also includes a set of silicone tips. The tips also fit over a threaded stainless-steel stud which seemed like a high-quality design. It made it easy to find the right size and material for the user and job at hand. Re[lacement and/or additional tips can be purchased from the Festool website.

Touch Controls

We also loved the touch based (vs button) design of the controls. It can get uncomfortable pressing the earbuds into your ear when trying to press the button. A light touch is all that is required to work the integrated controls for the GHS 25. We had zero issues operating the controls and even used them with gloves on a time or two.

Hard Case

The most frustrating part of case rechargeable earbuds is often how they fit into the case to recharge. A poor fit results in bas connections with the spring-loaded charging points. The Festool GHS 25 were exceptional in this regard. The magnetic connection uses an extremely strong magnet to align and secure the earbuds in the case. It was seriously impressive and appreciated. In fact, we could almost drop the earbuds into the molded channel, and they would secure themselves. They also easily fit even with the largest foam and silicone tips on which is another problem we’ve had with other NRR-rated earbuds.

Overall Performance

Sound Quality & Noise Protection

The sound quality of the Festool GHS 25’s is great. We listened to music often while running tools and could with zero complaints. It’s hard to quantify the NRR effectiveness. But after running planers, jointers, grinders, nail guns, miter saws and more for mutiple hours, our hearing was ringing-free and felt great.

Conversation Mode

The GHS 25 earbuds also have a conversation mode which uses the microphone to suppress background noise and allow you to hear a person talking. We were surprised at how well this feature worked. We were able to have a normal conversation easily even with an angle grinder running in the background!

Active Noise Cancelling

We loved the Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) feature as well. There were a handful of times when the ANC feature briefly struggled when we turned our head and because both earbuds weren’t equally picking up background noise. But it was very brief, maybe 2-3 seconds each time, and automatically kicked back on when we repositioned. This is on par with any other earbuds we’ve used though.

Final Thoughts | Festool Wireless Earbuds

The Festool GHS 25 earbuds are a great addition for any professional or handyman. They offer excellent hearing protection with very effective active noise cancelling. They were extremely comfortable through prolonged use. And we loved the easy and secure connection to the hard case. At $180 they are on the higher end for hearing protection, but we wouldn’t hesitate to make the purchase based on overall performance and comfort!

Festool Wireless Earbuds Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Brunt Costello Work Pants

Brunt Costello Work Pants

5/5

Manufacturer: Brunt
Model number: Costello
Price: $69.00

Eric Girouard established the Massachusetts-based company known as Brunt. With its new line of work boots and clothing, Brunt is stepping up their game in the workwear marketplace. Eric is setting up a business that produces excellent clothing and comfortable, reliable, and good-looking work boots.

The Costello pants have a slanted back pocket design with allows for easier access when reaching into your behind pockets.

Tool Box Buzz’s Suggestion

Inside the right-side cargo pocket, a partition would be great. I frequently carry a pencil, a knife, and a torpedo level in my pocket.

Without a divider, these tools “wonder” and land horizontally rather than vertically, as intended. The knife I carried in my pocket is shown here as an example. The knife turned horizontal and began sticking out when I knelt down. The pants would eventually rip, it would only be a matter of time.

Final Thoughts

My personal experience with these Brunt Costello pants has been one filled with comfort.  From the stretch material, the gusset panel and the DWR water coating these pants have been a pleasure to wear. Not once have I felt constricted while wearing them. Brunt has continued their success in the work wear and we are excited to see what they have in store for us in the future!

Work wear is an important investment.  One that you want to get right the first time to eliminate wasting your hard-earned money on inconsistent clothing.  Brunt has developed the Costello work pants with three goals in mind:

1. User Comfort
2. Durability
3. Affordability

Brunt has these work pants priced slightly lower than its nearest competitors. These pants  sell online for $69.00 and are highly recommended.

Brunt Costello Work Pants Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Werner Aluminum Linking Pro Work Platforms – Model AP-2030L-MP2

Werner Aluminum Height and Linking Pro Platform

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Werner
Model number: AP-2030L
Price: 145.63
Weight: 23.0

The market leader in ladders, Werner offers a full range of climbing equipment for working at heights. Ladders, attic ladders, scaffolding, pump jacks, stages, planks, step stools, and all the accessories. Werner offers a complete variety of climbing gear that is engineered to provide you with the maximum level of safety, durability, and productivity at every height, from ladders to fall protection. Every Werner product complies with or above the relevant international safety standards.

Manufacturer Specifications and Features

• Extra-large 46-inch x 14-inch platform
• Adjusts from 20 inches to 30 inches high
• Wide feet provide stability
• Height adjustment allows the work platform to be set on stairways
• Quick setup with one-handed lock and height adjustments
• The lightweight, compact size and EASY-GRAB handles make it simple to carry your work

Werner AP-2030L on the Job Site

During a large renovation, we utilized these linking work platforms when installing our window trim. Having the ability to safely stand and move while working was key to our success. Not having to relocate a small step ladder multiple times allowed us to install the window trims faster.

Each platform is almost 4′ long. Combining them together and the ability to safely work to the right and left we were able to cover about 10′-12′ at once without moving the platform.

The 14″ wide platform makes walking and turning around a non fall issue. Doubling your work length without having to move the platform is a really nice feature.

Set Up | Quick Link Technology

With Werner’s quick link technology, no tools are required to set up. You can safely link two or more platforms together. The work platform is fast to set up with one-handed lock and height adjustments.

Connecting

To connect the platforms together you must first slide out the connecting plate. Once pulled out all the way, you can connect the second platform

The second platform links into the first by sitting on the connection plate.

Disconnecting

When you are ready to disconnect, you have to press the yellow levers on both sides and lift up. This will release the locking mechanism and you are disconnected.

Adjusting the Height

Adjusting the height is simple once the work platform has been safely opened. The platform step has a lever that you push to raise the legs  bottoms to the appropriate height. The work platform is adjustable between entirely closed (20′′) and fully extended (30′′). The same is true for locking them up; all you have to do is push a button and slide the legs upwards. The work platform is also very well stabilized by the large feet. The best part is this is all a one-handed operation.

Versatility

The Werner AP-2030L platform is extremely versatile. There are several options in which you can deploy this work platform.

Due to the variable height adjustment on the legs, you can work on uneven ground without a stability issue. Working in areas with steps is no longer a safety hazard. Pairing multiple platforms allow for longer work areas and less moving of the platforms.

When folded up, the platform is extremely compact, measuring just over 4″.

Lightweight | Aluminum

The Werner platforms are made of aluminum and really lightweight. Each platform weighs only 23 lbs. The aluminum legs have non-slip threads and have yellow and blue plastic “bumpers” on the edges to avoid marring or scaring on delicate surfaces.

The large carrying handle in the middle allows you to carry the platform with ease to and from the van or work truck.

Safety | The Utmost Importance

Let’s stop and think about safety for a minute… Or make a quick phone call.

It makes sense to have a dependable work platform. Werner now has combined safety with the ability to work in longer spans by producing linking platforms. Now for our review, we only had two platforms linked together.  Werner says you can link up to 5 total! That 20 feet of workspace from side to side.  Werner remains an industry leader because they continue to produce products like this AP-2030L-MP2.

Werner Aluminum Linking Pro Work Platforms Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz