DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router DCW620B

20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCW620
Price: $349
Power source: 20V Max Battery
Motor size: 2 1/4 HP
Weight: 11.25 lbs ( Bare Tool)

A Legacy of Excellence

This plunge router is the result of nearly four years of development. DEWALT building on its experience with the successful 1-1/4 HP cordless router and a corded 2-1/2 HP model, aimed to push the boundaries of cordless technology. Drawing on its legacy dating back to Porter-Cable days, DEWALT sought to elevate the router’s performance to the next level with a 2-1/4″ HP cordless router.

This 2-1/4 horsepower heavy-duty plunge router has been designed with DEWALT’s signature attention to detail, the DCW620B offers the rugged durability, advanced features, and user-centric controls that pros need for precision work on demanding job sites. From its intuitive grip design to its innovative Anti-Rotation Safety System, this router is engineered to deliver exceptional performance while keeping you in control.

Why XR and Not FlexVolt?

Some may wonder why DEWALT opted for the XR 20-volt battery platform instead of the FlexVolt 60-volt system. The decision was driven by advancements in electronics and battery technology, which allowed them to achieve top-tier performance with a 20V battery. Additionally, their larger user base is mostly on the 20V platform, it made more sense for them to tailor the router to this group, maximizing accessibility, and of course profit.

DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router |Features

• Anti-Rotation Safety System
• Variable Speed Dial – 11k -23k RPM
• Tool Free Depth Adjustment System
• 3 Position Adjustable Turret Stops
• Thumb activated plunge lever and lock
• Dual angled LEDs
• Integrated Dust Collection

Collet and Bit Change

The DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router comes with two sized collets, the ¼” and the ½”. A pronounced and large spindle lock button along with the provided wrench allow for a straightforward bit and collet change with just one wrench.

Grip Mounted Activation

Proper handling of the router required two hands on each of the angled grips. The right grip house the on/Off trigger switch. To power the tool on you need to flip down the lock off lever that is mounted on the trigger and then squeeze the trigger to activate. A “soft start” activation minimizes jerk. With the trigger integrated into the main handle it is intuitive to continue to grip the trigger in the on position to keep the tool activated. Alternatively, there is a lock on switch located by the right thumb if you prefer.

Plunge Base and Depth Adjustment

The plunge lock lever is another highlight, located on the left grip, it is designed for precise depth adjustments. Inspired by DEWALT’s 3-1/4 HP router, the lever’s length and angle were adjusted for easier operation, providing a more ergonomic and comfortable user experience. This new design reduces the risk of unintentional movement during plunge applications, allowing for smoother, more controlled cuts.

The router plunge motion is locked by default. To lower router the plunge lock lever located by the thumb can be depressed while applying downward pressure against the springs. Releasing the thumb lever will lock the plunge depth at that height. The plunge lever can be locked in it down position with an audible click. The plunge motion is then free to go up and down with simple pressure on handles (or lack thereof) without the need to have your thumb on the lever.

The router features a straightforward depth rod with depth guide markings. The router has a maximum routing depth of 3.15″. The rod can be easily locked and unlocked with a quick release lever. The base of the depth rod has micro adjustment feature that can be manipulated by hand without any tools.

Additionally, the rotating turret stop for multi pass through cuts features individually adjustable tiers. These stops do require a wrench to adjust so we envision these will seldom need adjusting but it is a nice option to have.

Anti-Rotation Gyroscope System

The wide dual handed grips give the user great control and stability with cutting. However, this 2 ¼ HP router has a ton of power and is meant for big cuts with large bits. Large bits combined a lot of power has the recipe for serious kickbacks torquing motions. Perhaps the greatest feature of this router is the Anti-Rotation Gyro System, borrowed from other DEWALT tools like drills. This system senses motion and automatically shuts down the tool for added safety.

If a sudden twisting motion is detected, the motor will immediately power off saving the user the need to battle a potential out-of-control router. The tool will not power on again until the power switch is deactivated, and the Anti-Rotation light goes out.

Overload Protection

Located right next to the Anti-Rotation light is a triangular light that indicates an overload state. If the router detects you are pushing the bit too fast into the material a white LED will flash until pressure is reduced and RPMs increase.

Dust Extraction

The DEWALT DCW620 features an integrated dust collection system that starts with a clear plastic shroud designed into the baseplate. The router’s vertical dust chute offers improved line-of-sight while cutting. DEWALT recognized that many users position a vacuum hose over their shoulder for ease, and this vertical design makes that setup much more convenient. Dust is extracted up through the right plunge column where a vacuum hose can be connected. The tool comes with a dust extraction tube adapter that mates with the top of the column and is design to connect to a compatible DeWalt quick lock system.

Unfortunately, if you do not already have a DEWALT quick-lock or AIRLOCK compatible system, dust hose connection can be awkward and frustrating.

Overall, the dust extraction is excellent. When performing cutting on an edge like a round-over or chamfer, an additional dust collection shroud can be attached to collect dust and chip falling below.

Speed Control and Closed-Loop Electronics

While most cordless routers operate at around 25,000 RPM, DEWALT chose to run this model at a slightly lower 23,000 RPM. The router’s closed-loop electrical system was designed to maintain this speed even under load, ensuring a consistent and controlled performance. This deliberate decision gives the router better control over speed and torque, unlike competitors whose performance dips under pressure.

What’s Included

• (1) 20V MAX* XR® 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router (Tool Only)
• (2) Sub-base
• (1) 30mm Guide Bushing
• (1) 1/4 in. (6.4mm) Collet with nut
• (1) 1/2 in. (12.7mm) Collet with nut
• (1) Wrench
• (1) Dust cap
• (2) Dust Shield
• (1) Dust port w/ AIRLOCK Compatibility
• (1) Chip collector
• (1) Centering cone

The DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router is a plunge base only tool, that is it does not come with a fixed based like some of its competitors. The router comes with two sub bases, one optimized for dust extraction and the second for use with guide bushings for template work.

The router comes with both a 1/4″ and 1/2″ collet and a single wrench for collet and bit changes. Additionally, a centering cone is included if the base plate needs to be adjusted or replaced.

What’s NOT included

With the DCW260B only being sold as a “Tool Only” option there are a few things that you may find yourself searching for.

First and foremost is the recommended power option. While any 20V Max battery will power the router, DEWALT themselves recommend that to get the true performance out of the tool, a 20V Max Power-stack battery is required.
The DEWALT 2 1/4 HP Plunge Router is also compatible with an edge guide or side fence. Unfortunately, no side fence is included and must be purchased separately.

DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router | Price

DEWALT only offers the DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router as a bare tool. It is currently priced at ACME Tools for $349. It is our hope that they will soon offer this router kitten with XR batteries and a storage case to protect the tool and accessories.

Final Thoughts on the DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router isn’t just another plunge router; it’s a robust tool crafted for professional-grade applications. From the moment I turned it on and heard its smooth starting powerful sound I knew this was going to be a next-level router for them.

With features like the Anti-Rotation System, variable speed control, and integrated dust collection, it’s clear that DEWALT has put serious thought into the needs of contractors. The power of this router is also impressive, and you can hear it when routing Oak, Maple and Poplar.

While the router’s price and the “Tool Only” configuration may require some additional purchases, the power, versatility, and safety this tool offers make it a worthy investment for those who demand the best from their tools. Whether you’re making precise cuts on a custom project or tackling heavy-duty tasks like plywood cut outs, the DCW620B is built to perform in the trades.

DEWALT 20V XR 2-1/4 Peak HP Plunge Router Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hydraulic Impact Driver – Should You Have One In Your Kit?

When you hear the term “Hydraulic Impact Driver “you either know exactly what I’m talking about or you wonder if it’s some weird industrial tool hooked up to hydraulic hoses like a giant concrete saw. Well, I can assure you that if you do any work indoors, you should take a closer look at this tool.

What Is a Hydraulic Impact Driver?

So what is a hydraulic impact and how is it different from a regular impact? First off, a regular impact has three main parts a hammer, anvil, and a spring. As the hammer portion turns, if there’s resistance on the anvil, the spring loads up until it releases and the hammer strikes the anvil in the direction of rotation delivering that impact force into the fastener. The hammer and anvil mechanism is all metal so it is pretty loud when activated in quick succession. Check out this video excerpt from ToolStop where a Bosch employee demonstrates the impact mechanism.

A Hydraulic Impact is different in that it uses oil to build up pressure, when the pressure is high enough, pawls get pushed out on the anvil mechanism so that the hammer grabs them as it rotates. Then the pressure decreases, and the pawls retract until the pressure builds again. This results in a much quieter operation.

Benefits of a Hydraulic Impact over a regular

The first and biggest benefit is that they are half as loud as a regular impact. The new Dewalt boasts a 57% decrease in sound over their regular impact when driving 3″ screws into a pressure treated 4×4. That is a significant number. I can guarantee that all of us tradespeople will have some hearing loss over our careers, using a quieter tool when possible only makes sense.

The second benefit is the hydraulic mechanism due to the way it’s constructed, has more sustained torque. A regular impact is like hitting the end of a wrench with a hammer, a hydraulic impact is like putting a cheater pipe over the wrench and giving it a bunch of half-second tugs. Both will tighten the fastener, but one has torque on the fastener for a longer duration.

Killer Applications for Hydraulic Drivers

The obvious applications are anything indoors. MEP Rough-ins, steel stud framing, accessories (mirrors, grab bars, soap, paper towel dispensers, etc), device-ing out, and even doors and hardware. It isn’t just new construction either. Remodeling of existing occupied spaces can always benefit from decreased sound and vibration.

I do a ton of healthcare remodeling, hospitals, clinics, etc. Places that have to stay open even during construction. They always appreciate reduced noise and vibration, especially considering many places have normal sound levels rivaling the local library.

The last killer application is casework (cabinetry). Any time your head is close to the fastener being driven, the quieter the tool, the better it is for you in the long run.

Limitations of Hydraulic Drivers

There are some applications where hydraulic drivers are not the best choice. Longer and larger diameter fasteners like concrete screw anchors (TitanHD) and timber screws are hard for hydraulic impacts (and regular impacts) but in these cases, I usually switch to an impact wrench anyway.

The other area that hydraulics suffer from is extreme cold. I’ve had two Milwaukee Surge hydraulic drivers over the 8 years they’ve been out. The first one only lasted like 3-4 months because I left it on the job in the double digits below zero and I think the oil was too viscous and leaked out when I started using it for the day. I’ve never got an official confirmation from the brands that cold is detrimental for these types of drivers but I’ve read other reports online of similar scenarios.

Who makes Hydraulic Impact Drivers?

Up until a few months ago, Makita and Milwaukee were the only brands that made hydraulics. The drawback to this was that there has been no updates to these tools in the 8 years since they’ve been out. Now Dewalt just released theirs and it boasts quieter operation, less vibration, and more power than the Makita and Milwaukee. I don’t know if this new release from Dewalt will trigger updates to the Makita and Milwaukee.

What I do know is that if you’re on Milwaukee M18 or M12, Makita 18V LXT, or Dewalt 20V a hydraulic impact driver should have a spot in your tool kit.

Where To Buy (ACME Tool)

Milwaukee M12 Surge Bare Tool

MilwaukeeM18 Surge Bare Tool

Makita 18V LXT Bare Tool

Dewalt 20V Quiet Hydraulic Impact Bare Tool

Hydraulic Impact Driver – Should you have one? is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Milwaukee Tools
Model number: 834-20
Price: 249.00 bare tool | 446.00 kitted
Power source: M18 battery
Weight: 7.9 lbs

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20 | Specifications

1. 750 Cuts Per Charge (M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE HD12.0 battery)
2. 2-5/8″ Cut Capacity: Capability to cut 3x material in one pass
3. Bevel detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees
4. Depth detents at 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1-1/2”
5. Integrated dust port on guard and included vac adaptor
6. LED light
7. Integrated rafter hook
8. Magnesium shoe and guards
9. Electric brake
10. Length: 14 in
11. Weight: 7.9 lb.
12. Height: 8.5 in
13. Width: 7.4 in
14. Brushless motor

First Impression

When we first got the new Milwaukee Circular Saw, we put it side by side with the earlier Gen 2 model. The first thing we noticed was that the new saw was much smaller and lighter. Once we made a cut with the saw, my first comment was, “WOW, this cuts smooth!” More on that later.

Accuracy

Not that a lot of people check their saws, but when we checked in the shop, our saw was a perfect 90 and 45 degrees.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20 Updates

Compact Size

Milwaukee tossed out the Gen 2 design and redid this new saw inside and out. They shaved weight and size off the gear case, shoe plate, and upper and lower guards to get a more compact, lighter saw.

Support Handle

The support handle has been moved down in front of the motor. This was done to separate the hands further and create a better opportunity for user control of the saw.

Actuation Safety Trigger

The previous circular saw model had an ambidextrous button that needed to be depressed to activate the trigger and power on the saw. This safety annoyed many users, me included.

Having to actuate this button sometimes made it difficult to use the saw in some positions, like overhead cutting or cutting rafter tails. Milwaukee removed the old button, eliminating the need for a thumb depress.

They changed it to a lock on/off button. Now, when the button is turned on, the saw can be operated from the tool’s trigger without any other safety functions or activations needed.

Finger Guard

You’ll notice a large finger guard surrounding the trigger. This was done to help prevent items from hitting or wedging against the trigger and causing an accidental power-on situation. We found this guard large enough to fit a winter-gloved hand inside.

Blade Adjustment Depth Detents

One nice feature added was the addition of depth detents at 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1-1/2”. This is a little feature that users will appreciate, and once it becomes second nature, they will just feel or listen for the detents and go!

Bevel Lever

The old plastic knob has been replaced with a robust “old-school style” metal lever. The issue we’ve noticed on the older knob was that it often would get loose, fall off, and you’d lose the nut to hold it on. The new lever is securely attached and requires a ¼ rotation to loosen and a simple push down to lock. The saw has two detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees.

Blade Guard Geometry

The new saw has a flared guard end that was designed to eliminate hang-up and improve compound bevel, miter cuts, and thin cuts. We made several test cuts trying to catch up with the guard, and while you can occasionally get it to catch, its design is way better than the Gen 2 model.

LED Light

Milwaukee moved the LED light, and it now points to the cut line and saw blade. We noted that this new LED location really improved the cut line lighting.

Dust Port

I don’t know any tradesmen who use circular saws with dust collection, but it sure is nice to have the option. Milwaukee changed the outer port to have a universal adaptor and eliminate an extra part that the Gen 2 had—one less thing to lose.

Dust Blower

The dust blower uses the motor fan to channel air to three slots in the front of the saw and direct the air to the blade. The slots can be seen near the new LED light location.

Blade Wrench

Milwaukee ditched the old Allen wrench and went back to an old-school-style wrench, placing it in a more secure location, into the saw body just under the battery location. This location seems more secure than the older location and is way less likely to back out.

The wrench itself is bigger and gives the user more to hold onto. You’ll notice a prying section at the wrench’s end, which is a carryover from the old diamond cutouts on blades—even though Milwaukee is eliminating them for a 5/8” round arbor on all their saws.

Guard Spring

While not necessarily new, if you turn the saw upside down, you’ll see the guard safety spring is more visible than the Gen 2. Milwaukee uses what’s called a “Double Bugle Spring,” compared to many competitors that use a J-Spring.

The “Bugle Spring” cones-open on both ends and makes it far less likely for it to come loose under stress and usage. Milwaukee is committed to making safe products. They use the double bugle spring because it’s very reliable option and they test it to the extreme. The goal is to have a guard that always opens and closes properly!

Increased Bevel

The new Milwaukee saw now has the capacity to bevel to 57 degrees versus the Gen 2, which beveled to 53 degrees. The cut capacity does lessen at this angle, but the ability to make that angle cut can be helpful to many carpenters.

New Motor

We like to describe this new motor as power-dense in a smaller size. Milwaukee didn’t shave weight off the motor, instead opting to increase the copper windings, making it 1/10 lb. heavier than the older motor.
Here’s an interesting explanation of motor power:

• Gen 2 Saw #2732: Motor produces approximately 2,000 watts of power with a 12 Ah High Output battery.
• Gen 3 Saw #2834: Motor produces 2500-2600 watts of power with a 12 Ah High Output battery.
• Gen 3 Saw #2834: Motor produces 3200 watts of power with a 12 Ah FORGE battery.

Vent Slots Under Saw

If you look under the saw, you’ll see some vent slots. Vent slots are not new to Milwaukee saws, but these vents pull in cool air to cool off the saw’s components and electronics.

Using this Saw – My Thoughts

Using this saw, I immediately noticed how smooth and effortless it was to make cuts. The bevel adjustment is a standout feature, and I truly appreciate the expanded 57-degree range, which offers more versatility for various cutting angles. The smaller, lighter design makes the saw more maneuverable, and the elimination of the thumb safety actuation switch is a welcome change, allowing for easier operation. The new LED location is another highlight, significantly improving the illumination of the cut line compared to the older Gen 2 model. Additionally, the dust blower does an excellent job of clearing the cut line, ensuring better visibility during use.

The Whole is Greater than the Sum of its Parts

The larger story here is that the new motor efficiency, updated electronics, and new batteries come together to give you a more powerful saw in a smaller footprint.

The following four core components all work together to enhance the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20’s performance

1. M18 Forge Batteries

Milwaukee now has more powerful tab-less cell batteries and all-new battery pack construction that can charge faster. They come in the following sizes: XC6.0, XC 8.0, XC 12.0.

2. M18 SUPER Battery Chargers

Active cooling technology COOLCYCLE forces air through compatible battery packs. This airflow can cool overheated batteries within 90 seconds to begin charging.

3. Motor

This is the most power-dense motor Milwaukee has ever created. It has an increase of 36% more copper in the stator windings while reducing the overall size by 15%.

4. Electronics

More robust circuit boards and thicker wires are necessary to handle the increased current flowing between the new batteries and more powerful motors.

The new M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE batteries offer enhanced power in a smaller, lighter design, while the M18 Dual Bay SUPERCHARGER cuts charging time dramatically with innovative cooling technology. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motors have been refined for greater efficiency and power, and the upgraded REDLINK PLUS electronics ensure seamless communication between these advanced components. These enhancements culminate in the new 7-1/4″ Circular Saw, delivering more power, higher RPM, and improved ergonomics in a lighter package, setting a new standard for the M18 lineup.

Price and Availability

ACME Tools offers the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw in two configurations:

1. Bare Tool: $249
2. Kitted: $449, which includes a charger, bag, and a 12Ah FORGE battery. Model # 2834-21HD.

Overall Impression | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20

We were blown away by the recent updates to this saw and immediately noticed the difference in power on the first cut. One of my crew described it as cutting “like a hot knife through butter.” Personally, I’d describe it differently. I’ve owned many pickup trucks, and I recently bought myself a used Audi Q5 as my personal car. This saw cuts with the power of my truck’s towing capacity but feels as smooth as cruising in my Audi.

Well done, Milwaukee.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20 Video Review

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw 2834-20 Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HILTI Dust Extractor VC 4X-22

HILTI 22-Volt Nuron Dust Extractor VC 4X-22

5/5

Manufacturer: HILTI
Model number: VC 4X-22
Power source: 22 volt battery

Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 | Multiple Configurations

The dust extractor offers several configurations:

• Vacuum head unit
• 8-liter tank that connects to a backpack set
• 15-liter tank that connects to a wheeled dolly
• Plastic bags for silica dust with a zip tie
• Fleece bags specific to sawdust and other debris
• 6-foot hose designed for the backpack and wall drilling
• 9-foot hose for both configurations
• Bluetooth dongle
• HEPA filter
• Universal wet/dry filter

Interesting Note: The plastic bags have holes that should be inside the tank to prevent suction into the filter, allowing better performance with some dust leakage.

Hilti VC 4X-22 |Runtime and Bluetooth Dongle

The Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 when equipped with a 255 battery, the vacuum runs for 21 to 22 minutes continuously. However, the vacuum is primarily designed as a dust extractor, connected to a tool that powers on and off with the tool. In this mode, the battery can last an entire day or more.

Hilti provides a Bluetooth dongle that can attach on the hose end or directly on the tool.

We recently used the vacuum and dongle on our miter saw while cutting PVC trim. The vacuum ran all day, in an on / off fashion, and battery was half full at the end of the day. To make sure we used the vacuum, we attached the dongle “font and center,” on the miter saw handle. This reminded us to turn it on and off as we made our cuts. The dongle was designed to preserve battery life, and it worked for us.
Interesting Note on Hilti Battery Charging:

The HILTI charger can charge the battery in less than an hour, reaching 80% in the first half hour. So, if you need a battery sooner, you can pull it off the charger after half an hour and be at 80%. Regardless, having two batteries will guarantee you all-day runtime.
Powerhead Design

The powerhead has a top, folding handle that makes carrying this vacuum easy. There are two large, solidly designed clamps to attach the power head to the vacuum tank. The filter attaches underneath the powerhead and is easily removed. The black flange between the filter and powerhead is designed to install only one way on the power head. HILTI updated this because many users were installing it backward, introducing air into the turbine and blowing out the sides.

User Interface Dashboard

The dashboard on the Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 is intuitive, and has symbol-like labels to assist users, although I still feel that HILTI could improve their manuals. The dashboard has an on/off, and Bluetooth knob.

There is also an LED indicator to alert users when the tank is full of water. Yes, this vacuum can be used as a wet/dry vac, why I’m not 100% sure, I’d rather use a cheap shop vac for that. Maybe Hilti has a connection for concrete wet cutting. There is also an ECO button on the dashboard which allows users to reduce vacuum power to 60% to conserve battery or when 100% suction is not needed, such as in some sanding applications.

Under the head unit, two stainless steel sensors detect water levels in the tank.

Suction and Power

The HILTI VC 4X-22 certainly has plenty of suction for both tool attachment and cleanup. While not designed for heavy debris and demolition waste, it works well for small cleanups. HILTI sells accessories like floor sweeps and nozzles, making this vacuum suitable for both dust extraction and small service call cleanups.

As I mentioned earlier, I used this vacuum on an exterior repair project ripping PVC trim, on a tablesaw, which creates a lot of dust. The vacuum performed excellently, collecting dust from our miter saw. I’ve also used it to collect sawdust and on a few small clean ups.

Filter and Filter Cleaning

HILTI offers fleece bags designed to protect the filter from sawdust, which is especially bad on the filters, sawdust clings to the filter and resists filter auto cleaning. The dashboard has a push button to power clean the filter. It’s recommended that you cover the hose with your hand to build up pressure and press the power clean button 5-6 times. Doing this effectively cleans the filter better than the regular interval auto clean function.

Note: Tapping the filter or using compressed air can damage it. HILTI offers two filters: a HEPA filter and a universal wet/dry filter, each costing around $50 and will last users a few months.

15-Liter Tank | 2-Wheel Cart

The Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 tank is engineered with reinforced ribbing to reduce collapsing from the increased vacuum power pressure. The larger tank improves performance by maintaining vacuum pressure inside the tank as it fills with debris. The telescoping cart handle works great at maneuvering the vacuum, users can lock the handle height, by activating a rotating pivot lock. Black supports or stair slides mounted on the cart, near the wheels protect stairs during navigation. The cartwheels are durable, navigating gravel, asphalt, and grass adequately, no issues. The front of the cart is extended and provide excellent stability to the vacuum. I place the vac ion the side wall of my van and it stays put and doesn’t tip over.

The tank cart is backwards compatible with HILTI’s VC 140, allowing for an upgrade or exchange through the fleet program

Backpack Harness | 8-Liter Tank Setup

The backpack setup is designed to be used with the smaller, 8-liter tank configuration. It’s designed for users who are wall and overhead drilling. The backpack harness has 4-tabs that intersect into the powerhead and a red clip that locks it in pace. We found the backpack attachment easy to attach to the powerhead and smaller tank. Its comfortable and easy to use.

The backpack harness has plenty of padding  for wall and ceiling drilling.

Anti-static Vacuum Hose and Grounding

To address user feedback about static shocks, HILTI installed internal copper wire inside the vacuum to improve grounding. They also designed an anti-static hose with a conical shape on one end that reduces static.

Conical Adapter

The vacuum includes a conical adapter with ribs on the inside specifically designed for HILTI’s jigsaw and an outside fit for circular saws and other tools like concrete breakers and drills. It also fits our 12-inch DeWalt miter saw, and 7-1/4-inch Milwaukee miter saw.
To connect to my Milwaukee cordless tablesaw I needed to use a different connection adapter, that I had in my bag of tricks.

Room for Improvement

There’s not much to complain about the Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 other than the cost of the unit. One thing I do notice is that I get annoyed coiling the hose around the telescoping handle. It’s just not as neat and clean as I’d like to see – there was no plan for it. One way I’ve dealt with this is I use a Velcro strap to secure the hose to the vacuum.

Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 Price

• Vacuum with 8 liter tank:  $549.00
• Vacuum with 15 liter tank $649.00

Conclusion

In summary, we like the Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22. HILTI’s upgraded dust extractor offers improved versatility, power, and user-friendly features, making it a valuable tool for various applications, including wet vacuuming if we were ever in a pinch.

Hilti Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 Video Review

HILTI 22-Volt Nuron Dust Extractor VC 4X-22 Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

New Milwaukee M18 Tool Improvements

Milwaukee Tools just held their annual PIPELINE media event where they unveiled the latest additions to their expansive product lineup.  The backbone of this years event was touted as THE NEXT BREAKTHROUGH in M18 FUEL ^TM. This next breakthrough is actually as series of iterative improvements across 4 key components that make up the M18 tool platform – batteries, chargers, motors, and electronics.

M18 REDLITHIUM^TM FORGE^TM BATTERIES

At last years PIPELINE event in 2023, Milwaukee announced their newest innovations to the M18 and MX batteries with the REDLITHIUM FORGE series. The M18 XC 6.0 FORGE battery was released taking advantage of a pouch style design that boasted similar performance to the M18 HD 12.0 battery in a package 30% smaller and 40% lighter.

This year the M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE XC 8.0 AND HD 12.0 batteries were announced. These batteries take advantage of a tabless cell structure currently found on the MX series FORGE batteries. This tabless cell structure benefits from a new laser welding process to connect the individual cells allowing for a more robust connection as well as unlocking a feature previously found only on the MX batteries that Milwaukee is calling COOL CYCLE. Open vents in the battery housing allow for active convection cooling when paired with the new SUPER CHARGER.

In addition to the faster charge times and increased power in a smaller package, Milwaukee claims these new batteries extend lifetime performance as well.

M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous SUPERCHARGER

With the release of the FORGE series batteries last year, Milwaukee introduced the new SUPERCHARGER series of batteries chargers. These chargers can recharge the FORGE batteries and previous generation REDLITHIUM batteries significantly faster, roughly 2X faster than the RAPIDCHARGER and 4-5X faster than the standard charger.

This year the SUPERCHARGER is incorporating the active cooling technology COOLCYCLE that forces air through compatible battery packs. This airflow can cool overheated batteries within 90 seconds to begin charging. Without COOLCYCLE ambient cooling could take as long as 20 minutes before charging can even begin. Additionally the airflow will keep the battery significantly cooler, aiding in the quick charge times and helping ease the strain on components over their lifetime.

As seen in the graphic above, the new 12.0 FORGE battery can charge cooled off a high demand discharge and charged in as skittle as 45 minutes with the SUPERCHARGER compared to 127 minutes for the previous gen 12.0 battery and RAPIDCHARGER.

POWERSTATE Brushless Motors

The POWERSTATE Brushless Motors also benefit from a next generation upgrade.  A new manufacturing process that Milwaukee is employing has allowed for an increase of 36% more copper in the stator windings while reducing the overall size by 15%.This is achieved by individual stator segments remain exposed exposed for high efficiency windings and then welded together to form the concentric ring.

REDLINK PLUS Electronics enhancements

To quarterback all these improved components, the electrical curcuits and wiring also recieved an upgrade.  The next generation REDLINK PLUS electronics are built around improved curcuit boards that are smaller yet more robust.  Additionally these boards can interface with much thicker wiring that is necessary to handle to increase current flowing between the new batteries and more powerful motors.

How do all these upgrades add up?

Most tool innovations these days are incremental and the margins by what makes a new version tool “better” can sometimes be hard to quantify or justify a sale.  Milwaukee has spent years making incremental improvements to 4 key backbone components with batteries, charges, motors and electronics.  In the past 12 months we have seen significant upgrades on all 4 of these components starting with the release of the FORGE batteries last year.  But what happens when all 4 get incorporated into a new tool designed from the ground up.

We were excited to see the first tool to incorporate all these upgrades are the new 7 1/4″ Circular Saws, both top handle/sidewinder and rear handle/wormdrive. The new 2834 model is set to replace the existing 2732 model in August 2024.  This newer has been redesigned from the ground up and features some new ergonomic improvements like a redesign of the sometimes cumbersome thumb activated trigger lock.

The new M18 FUEL  7 1/4″ Circular Saw has an increased cut capacity at 2 5/8″, a 1/8″ bump up from the previous generation saw.  The new POWERSTATE motors drive the blade at 6000 RPM, 200 RPM higher than before and produce a peak power output ~50% more.

Additionaly the newer saw is able to deliver all this new performance in a smaller lighter package.  The 2834 weighs in at 7.9 lbs, which is 10% lighter than the previous 2732 weighing in at 8.7 lbs.

While its easy to see how these new core components are delivering a significant bump in performance to the circular saw lineup, the potential to have similar performance gains in smaller packages across the M18 lineup is an exciting development.  While not all tools on the M18 lineup may see as large a performance gain as the saws we are eager to see how these new developments filter through the product lineup.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Improvements is a post from Tool Box Buzz

HILTI Pressure Cleaner

Hilti PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner

4.5/5

Manufacturer: HILTI
Model number: PC 2-22
Price: 225
Power source: 22 Volt Nuron Battery
Weight: 4.6 lbs

Applications For the Hilti PC 2-22

• Remove mud off equipment tires
• Clean truck beds
• Wash heavy equipment
• Clean decks, staging and platforms
• Wet mud, and fresh slurry
• Light jobsite cleanup.
• Clean mixers, coring bits and concrete cutting equipment
• Cleaning “slurry” from cutting concrete slabs and cores. Especially in places with no access to a hose.
• Washing down small areas of new masonry after acid washing.

The Hilti PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner runs on the Nuron 22V battery platform and one great feature is that it can siphon water from a bucket, or tank, as well as connect directly to a water supply hose. The siphon feature is great because it allows for remote cleaning with no running water.

An additional detergent accessory can also be purchased.

Key Specifications

• Water Pressure: 580 PSI (working), 870 PSI (maximum)
• Water Flow Rate: 0.58 gallons/minute (max 1.19 gallons/minute)
• Tool Body Weight: 4.6 lbs.
• Price: $225
• Weight 2.1 kg • 2.1 kg
• IP code IPx5 • IP X5 (Protection against water jets from all directions)
• Nominal pressure 40 bar ±3 bar • 40 bars ±3 bar
• 6 MPa
• Water connection. 1⁄2″ water hose / coupling • 1⁄2″ water hose / coupling
• Maximum inflow temperature 40 ℃ • 40 ℃
• Maximum inflow pressure 0.6 MPa • 0.6 MPa
• Nominal flow rate (water) 2.2 ℓ/min • 2.2 ℓ/min

Using the Hilti PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner

The PC 2-22 used double fixation threads to connect the wand and cleaning head to the tool The connections are all ABS plastic with rubber O-rings, and we found the tool easy to assemble, dis-assemble, troubleshoot, and clean. The pressure cleaner is easy to use, there is a lock and a trigger plus the head nozzle has 4 cleaning options to choose from.

I used the cordless cleaner to clean my truck and a bobcat by siphoning water from a 5-gallon bucket. I additionally used it to clean my patio and pool filter at home by using a quick coupling connector direct to a garden hose. The pressure was similar on both when siphoning and when connected to a hose. There were no differences in pressure perceived.

Notable Features of the Hilti PC 2-22

Cleaning Power

The Hilti PC 2-22 boasts a working pressure of 580 PSI, with a maximum pressure of up to 870 PSI. While this is nowhere near the 1300 to 2400 psi of a gas pressure washer, this range of pressure allows you to tackle a variety of tasks, from cleaning small equipment to washing away wet mud or slurry with ease.

A 4-in-1 Adjustable Nozzle

One of the standout features of this pressure cleaner is its 4-in-1 adjustable nozzle. It offers the flexibility to switch between a turbo wash with concentrated pressure for tough spots and a 60-degree wide spray for broader cleaning areas. This adaptability ensures you have the right tool for any light cleanup task.

Compact and Portable Design

Weighing in at just 4.6 pounds, the Hilti PC 2-22 is incredibly lightweight, we found that it can be used one-handed. Its compact design and detachable pressure washer lance make it easy to transport and store, fitting conveniently into any workspace or vehicle, eliminating the need to lug around bulky cleaning equipment – this cleaner is designed for ease of use.

Ergonomic and User-Friendly

The ergonomic design of the Hilti PC 2-22 includes a convenient handle and an easy-pull trigger, ensuring comfortable handling during extended use. This thoughtful design minimizes user fatigue, allowing you to work longer without discomfort.

Cordless Convenience Operates on the Nuron battery platform and is capable to suction water from a bucket or a hose feed.

Suggestion on Improving

One thing I’d like to see Hilti improve on would be provide better hose  and coupling / connections. The hose kinked up a few times, impacting water pressure, having a thicker or moire durable connection at the coupling might prevent that.

Conclusion

The Hilti PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner combines reasonable cleaning power, versatility, and portability.
We think this would be great for washing “slurry” from cutting concrete slabs and cores. Especially in places with no access to a hose. Also it would be great for washing down small areas of new masonry after acid washing for example. This would be awesome for washing down decks, just today I was helping install railings on a deck, it had rained, we had mud all over the new composite decking…that would have been sweet for cleaning up after.

At just $225, it offers excellent value for a tool that promises to enhance remote cleanup tasks.

HILTI PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner Video Review

HILTI PC 2-22 Portable Pressure Cleaner Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Milwaukee M18 15mm Random Orbital Polisher Kit Review (Model# 2684-22HD)

Milwaukee M18 Random Orbital Polisher

4/5

Manufacturer: Milwaukee
Model number: 2684-22HD
Price: 529.00
Power source: M18 Battery
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 5.16

This kit comes complete with a carrying case, two Milwaukee M18 6.0AH batteries, and a rapid charger.  Our initial thoughts were that the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher was very comfortable to hold, and also very strong in the power department. In this review, we will cover the features of this polisher, report back on the battery life, and test the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher in many different applications by myself and in the hands of a professional detailer.

Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher Specifications

• Battery Platform: M18 FUEL
• Motor Type: Brushless Motor
• Length: 17.26″
• Weight: 5.16 Lbs
• Warranty: 3 Year
• Head Size: 5″
• Speed Settings: 8
• RPM Range: 2,650 to 5,100

Carrying case

Like most Milwaukee products, the Milwaukee M18 15mm Random Orbital Polisher Kit includes a carrying case. I find the carrying cases that Milwaukee includes handy for tool organization and shelf storage. I keep most of my polishing pads and chemicals in this carrying case when not in use.

Rubber Grips

The Milwaukee M18 15mm Random Orbital Polisher is extremely comfortable to hold. The front and rear handles are molded with a soft and durable rubber grip. The rubber grips have a molded diamond shape pattern to improve hand grip. I used this tool to polish two cars, a boat, car headlights, and plastic Jeep windows. One of the best features of this tool was how comfortable it was to hold.

Weight/Length

With the M18 6.0 Ah battery attached, the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher weighs in at 7.13 pounds and 19.5″ in length. I found the weight and length of this polisher to be on par with most other battery-powered polishers. Naturally, a battery-powered polisher will be a little heavier and a little longer than a corded tool due to the added battery. A battery-powered polisher is a high-demand tool. Therefore, the included 6.0 Ah battery hits the sweet spot between not making the tool too heavy and having enough battery to last a reasonable amount of time while polishing.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most common questions regarding almost any cordless power tool. While polishing I often take small breaks, adding more product, taking a sip of water, or wiping my work area. With these small breaks in polishing, I found that one battery lasted me a little over 50 minutes. Additionally, I also tested the polisher and NEVER let the tool shut off. The trigger lock was engaged and I ran the polisher at 3700 RPM until the 6.0-ah battery died. In this setting, The Milwaukee M18 Polisher lasted exactly 44 minutes and 36 seconds. I think that is a pretty good amount of continuous time from one 6.0-ah battery.

I typically do most of my polishing in my garage or driveway. Having two fully charged batteries will get me through most jobs. If additional batteries are needed the rapid charger will charge the batteries fairly quickly. I also tested a completely drained battery and the rapid charger charged the 6.0-ah battery in exactly 56 minutes. It should be noted that while using the tool at a higher speed, the Milwaukee Polisher performed at 100 percent power right until the battery was getting close to depletion. It then had a slight loss of power. This loss of power was beneficial to me because it gave me a heads-up that the battery was getting low but still allowed me to finish the area I was working in. However, when I tested at mid-speed (3700 RPM), the Polisher shut off when the battery died.

Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher Power

The Milwaukee M18 Random Orbital Polisher is no slouch in the power department. As I previously mentioned, this polisher provided corded-level power the entire time it was used until battery depletion. The strong Milwaukee polisher has 8 speeds to choose from, ranging from 2,650 to 5,100 RPM, which can be selected by the easy-to-read dial on the top of the tool. The placement of the speed selector is in a good location on the top of the tool and it was not in the way while using this polisher. The trigger lock is also placed comfortably and can easily pushed in to keep the polisher on without having to hold the trigger.

The Milwaukee Polisher did not stall during normal use. I had to apply heavy pressure to get the polisher to stop spinning, but it was still not completely stalled out. The amount of pressure that I used is not needed for normal polishing. This confirmed how powerful the Milwaukee Polisher is.

Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher – Professional Use

Although I am pretty skilled when it comes to keeping my toys polished, I also put this tool into the hands of a true professional polisher. I loaned the Milwaukee M18 Random Orbital Polisher to Matt at MaxSport Auto Detailing here in CT. Matt is a professional detailer who offers expert detailing services, and I must say that he does an excellent job. In addition, he was already familiar with this Milwaukee polisher as he had already owned it.

Matt told me that the Milwaukee Polisher is not his first choice as he typically uses a corded high-end professional polisher. However, Matt did provide feedback from a pro perspective. Matt was quick to say that although this may not be a high-end polisher, it is a very solid polisher at a reasonable price point (much less than his professional polisher). Matt explained that he often uses the Milwaukee Polisher when he is in a situation where he needs to be cordless. Although Matt already owned this polisher, he still tested it out for the day to refresh his memory.

Professional Opinion

While Matt tested the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher he had plenty of “pro” opinions to offer. First Matt commented that the Milwaukee Polisher was a little heavy. When polishing all day long every ounce counts and can certainly take its toll on the body. Matt also felt that the length of the Milwaukee Polisher was a little long. He believes that a shorter polisher would allow him more maneuverability when polishing vehicles like a Lexus that has a lot of angles.  However, he noted that weight and length are user preferences. Although these were some key points, it’s important to remember that when using a battery-powered polisher, naturally there will be a little extra length and weight due to the added battery.

Professional Insight

Matt also liked that soft grip of the Milwaukee Polisher more than his professional polisher, and he commented that the polisher had really good power with 2-5 lbs of pressure applied. The biggest thing that was brought to my attention was that the motor of the Milwaukee Polisher polisher was slightly unstable or unbalanced on startup. This meant that each time the polisher was started, it wobbled slightly on the vehicle surface until it reached polishing speed. The professional polisher that was also on site had no wobble on startup.  I was able to take the 5″ backing plate off to check the motor and bearing system. Everything was tight, and there were no adjustments that could be made. I didn’t notice this wobble until Matt pointed it out, but this may be something on the radar of a pro.

Matt concluded by saying that he prefers his corded professional polisher. However, there are certain jobs in which he has to break out the cordless Milwaukee Polisher. Although the Milwaukee Polisher may not meet the expert level, Matt said that if it was all he had to use he would have no problem making a living using the Milwaukee Polisher. Matt’s opinions are that the Milwaukee Polisher is great for homeowners up to professional car detailers who are just starting. We also agreed that it would appeal to people already on the Milwaukee M18 battery system.

Final Thoughts on the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher

The Milwaukee M18 Random Orbital Polisher is a dual-action polisher. Dual-action polishers are safer to use than standard rotary polishers. It is comfortable to hold and has strong power like a corded polisher. Each M18 6.0 AH battery will last about 45 minutes. If you purchase the kit you will have a second battery to keep on the charger ready to go.  After testing the Milwaukee polisher on several different applications and putting it in the hands of a professional detailer, we agreed that this is a solid polisher for many different levels of use.

Buy it now

The Milwaukee M18 15mm Random Orbital Polisher Kit can be purchased as a kit and comes complete with a carrying case, Two Milwaukee M18 6.0AH batteries, and a rapid charger for $529. The Milwaukee polisher is priced similarly to other competitors on the same level. It should be noted that the Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher is also offered as a tool only for $299.00. Buying as a tool-only can make the Milwauke polisher very affordable if you already have the M18 batteries. Additionally, the Milwaukee Polisher is also available in a 21mm version with a 6″ backing plate for $329.00. It should be noted that the 5″ & 6″backing plates are universal and can be switched between polishers. Backed by Milwaikees’ 3-year warranty, there isn’t much to worry about as far as longevity.

Milwaukee Random Orbital Polisher Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DEWALT 60V Cordless 12in Sliding Miter Saw Kit – Model DCS781X1

DEWALT 60V 12in Sliding Miter Saw Kit

4.5/5

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCS781X1
Price: $849.00
Power source: 60V Lithium Ion
Weight: 50.9 LBs

The DCS781 is DEWALT’s 2nd generation FLEXVOLT cordless miter saw. This GEN 2 has three big upgrades to cover. First, this saw now runs off just one 60v battery, whereas the first generation saw used two. Secondly, this saw has new Regenerative Braking Technology. Lastly, DEWALT claims it will deliver 20% more power than other cordless saws.

Features & Specs

Out of the Box | Square

Most saws, not all, require the user to “dial in” the precision out of the box. Squaring the saw  90° up and down and 90° to the fence required no adjustments on this miter saw once removed from the box. The robust packaging appears to have kept the saw well calibrated during transit.

Kit Components

The DEWALT DCS781 can be sold either as a bare tool (DCS781B) or as a kit (DCS781X1) The kit contains the following items:

• DEWALT 12″ 60V Sliding Miter Saw (DCS781B)
• 20V/60V MAX* FLEXVOLT Battery (DCB609)
• 6amp Charger (DCB1106)
• Fine Finish Blade – 60-tooth
• Blade Wrench
• Material Clamp
• Stabilizer Bar
• Vacuum adapter
• Dust Bag
• Base Extensions (2)

Portability

The DEWALT DCS781 is heavy and not a tool you want to have to move around often. This saw weighs 50.9 Lbs as a bare tool. The saw does have a large carrying handle at the top of the saw as well as handle indentations on each side of the saw to assist with transportation. These handle areas are well placed, sturdy, and could easily be used when you have larger bulky gloves on.

Due to this saw being large and heavy, an easier means of transportation from job site to job site is the DEWALT Rolling Miter Saw Stand. DEWALT does offer a stabilizer bar and has easily adjustable table extensions on both sides if you are using it on a solid surface.

Cut Capacity Specifications

The DEWALT saw has a maximum horizontal cutting capacity of 12-3/16″. It can cut baseboard up to 6-1/2″ vertically, and crown molding up to 6-1/2″ nested.

• Maximum Crosscut Capacity at 90° – 3″x 12-3/16″
• Maximum Crosscut Capacity L/R at 45° – 3″x8″
• Maximum Bevel Cut Angle to Left – 49°
• Maximum Bevel Cut Angle to Right – 49°
• Maximum Cutting Thickness – 6-3/4”

Regenerative Braking Technology

Similar to how an electric automobile utilizes its motor as a generator to recover wasted energy during braking and reroute it back into the battery, the saw’s regenerative braking system does the same. Instead of turning the braking energy into heat in the motor, the saw uses some of the energy lost when stopping the blade to recirculate it back into the battery. The material being cut will determine how much energy must be extracted from the motor for the operation, affecting the run-time benefit.

The DCS781 is equipped with an automatic electric blade brake which stops the saw blade within 5 seconds of trigger release.  This is the same time frame as the first-generation dual battery miter saw.

Note

On a few occasions, it was noted that there was a delay after the trigger release for the brake to engage. In the operations manual, DEWALT does mention that this can occur and offers a solution to fix the problem. They state ” If a delay or “skipping” occurs, turn the saw on and off 4 or 5 times. If the condition persists, have the tool serviced by an authorized DEWALT service center.” They do not explain as to why it could occur.

Number of Cuts on Single Battery | Run-time Test

A run-time test was conducted on the DEWALT DCS781.  DEWALT proclaims “exceptional run-time” stating it this saw can deliver up to 675 cuts on 3-1/4” MDF baseboard molding and up to 255 cuts in 4”x4” lumber.

For the run-time test, repetitive cuts were made using 2×6 KD lumber until the battery was exhausted. The saw was started and brought up to full speed. The saw was brought forward, the cut was made, and waited for the blade to stop.  3/4″ cuts on the lumber were achieved by using a positive stop and a DEWALT vise clamp. The cut piece was removed and then the process was repeated.

The test was conducted with a fully charged 9.0 Ah FLEXVOLT battery, which is included in the kit. It’s important to note that DEWALT has larger amp-hour batteries which will extend run-time significantly. The results of our test were 243 cuts in 2×6 KD lumber.

DCS781 | Job Site Performance

The DEWALT DCS781 did a stellar job on the 3-1/4″ primed finger-jointed baseboard trim remodel. There were a couple of special mitered cuts to accommodate a waterline behind a toilet.

This miter saw was used on a custom bedroom headboard project and noted clean and crisp cuts on our 1×8 pine shiplap

Capturing Dust at the Source

The DEWALT DCS781 saw has a built‑in dust port proprietary to their dust collection systems. It is called “Airlock” because of its twist-locking mechanism that allows the user to quickly connect and disconnect from tool to tool. It is simple to use and it swivels 360° to prevent the hose from becoming twisted during use.

If you are looking to hook up any DEWALT tool to a non-DEWALT brand shop vac or extractor, you are going to have to use some type of adapter to be successful. DEWALT does offer a universal dust extraction kit that has several adapters that most likely will fit the hose of your vacuum or extractor.

DEWALT claims a 94% dust capture at the source when using a dust extractor. During our run-time test, it was noticed that there was a good amount of dust left on the surface after the 243 cuts were made. It is safe to say there was more than 6% that was not captured, even while using the DEWALT DEWALT DWV012 10-gallon wet/dry HEPA Dust Extractor.

Crown Molding Bevel Pawls

The saw is equipped with pawls set to 22.5 ° and 33.9° bevel angles, left or right.  This allows you to quickly and accurately set the saw to cut at these bevel angles. When cutting crown molding laying flat, the saw can accurately and quickly set a crown stop, left or right. The crown bevel pawl can rotate to make contact with the crown adjustment screw. The saw is factory set to cut normal crowns in North America (52/38).

LED Cut Line

Miter saws with lights on both sides of the blade to create a kerf width shadow is a significant improvement in precision cutting technology. DEWALT is the original designer of this LED Cutline and now many manufacturers are following their direction. This LED cut line technology provides users with clear and exact cut lines, resulting in unmatched accuracy.

LED work light can be turned on by the momentary switch that will automatically turn off within 20 seconds if the saw is not in use. The light is also activated automatically every time the tool’s main trigger is pulled. The LED work light begins to flash when the battery is near the end of its useful charge and/or when the battery is too hot.

Single Battery Operation

This 2nd generation FLEXVOLT miter only requires a single 60v battery whereas the previous model required two. This is great for two reasons. First is the obvious, it only takes one battery to operate so users can have one battery on the charger while using one battery, therefore realistically cutting all day long with no interruptions.  The second reason would be the price reduction. FLEXVOLT batteries are very expensive, so reducing the cost of purchasing this saw as a kit, without reducing the power of the saws by losing a battery is something you will appreciate.

Single Battery Downfall

One downfall of the single battery operation is not having the ability to use a plug in adapter. The previous two battery model operated on two 60v batteries, essentially giving you 120v of power. This made it really easy to have a plug in converter. 60 Volts is much harder to do, and likely why there is not a plug in version. Yes this makes the saw kit cheaper, but not having a plug in adapter is a big hit in our crew’s opinion for a larger saw like this.

Final Thoughts

The DEWALT DCS781 is an excellent job site or shop miter saw. While a lot of our work can be done with a smaller-diameter saw, not all of it can and that’s where the DCS781 shines! You can always cut smaller with a bigger bladed saw, but not the other way around.  The three big improvements on this saw were the Regenerative Braking Technology, more power offered, and uses one less battery. If you are already using the dual battery miter saw, you have just reduced the need for 2 extra DEWALT FLEXVOLT batteries while maintaining all-day run-time.

DEWALT 60V Cordless 12in Sliding Miter Saw Kit Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

22 Hilti SIW 10-22 3/4″ High-Torque Cordless Impact Wrench

Hilti NURON SIW 10-22 Impact Wrench

5/5

Manufacturer: Hilti
Model number: SIW 10-22
Price: $420
Power source: Li-Ion
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 6.4 lbs (Bare Tool)

Specifications and Features

• Anvil Type: 3/4″ through hole with friction ring
• Maximum Torque: 627 ft-lbs (1); 1180 ft-lbs (2)
• Nut Busting Torque: 1475 ft-lbs
• Full Hammering Frequency: 2500 impacts/minute
• Number of Gears: 2
• No Load RPM: Gear 1: 1000 rpm, Gear 2: 1250 rpm
• Dimensions: 8.5″ x 3.4″ x 9.3″
• Tool Weight: 6.4 lbs (Bare Tool)
• A-Weighted Emission Sound Pressure Level: 97 dB
• Brushless Motor

High-Torque Performance

The Hilti SIW 10-22 3/4″ High-Torque Impact Wrench isn’t adorned with fancy controls or features. However, it’s a straight forward powerhouse for really difficult fastening applications. The combination of the robust brushless motor and the new NURON battery platform result in one of the most powerful cordless 3/4″ impact wrenches.

Sending tools to the fleet mechanic in the quarry usually results in a short life. The environment and shear size of the equipment makes it the perfect testing location for high capacity tools like the Hilti SIW 10-22 Impact Wrench. One of the most impressive things about the SIW 10-22 is the nut busting capability of this wrench. It can break free many bolted connections that some 1″ cordless impact wrenches can’t do.

It’s so powerful that it will break fasteners. Hilti publishes a warning on their site stating that there is a risk of over-tightening and damaging fasteners. This impact wrench broke off several 5/8″ fasteners with very little effort, therefore users should be careful on small fastener applications.

The SIW 10-22 doesn’t have many features which is refreshing with an impact wrench. The SIW 10-22 has a well placed LED light just above the battery that provides good light for the work surface. There is a simple switch to change between speed 1 and 2. It also has a simple green LED light to designate which gear its in.

For those that work at height and require a positive retention for sockets the SIW 10-22 has a  through hole friction ring anvil. It’s a pretty simple system and works well.

Final Thoughts – Hilti SIW 10-22

The Hilti SIW 10-22 High-Torque 3/4″ Impact Wrench is outstanding. It’s built like a tank, it has very impressive torque, has a great price point, and it offers one of the best warranties on the market. This is an exceptional cordless impact wrench for steel erectors, fleet mechanics and anyone working with large diameter fasteners.

Hilti SIW 10-22 3/4″ High-Torque Impact Wrench Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hilti NURON Cordless 1/2″ High Torque Drill Driver – SF 10W-22

Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 Cordless Drill Driver

5/5

Manufacturer: Hilti
Model number: SF 10W-22
Price: $289
Power source: Li-Ion
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 4.1 lbs (Tool Only)

Specifications & Features

• Maximum Torque: 841 in-lb (soft joint), 1062 in-lb (hard joint)
• No Load RPM: gear 1: 330 rpm; gear 2: 560 rpm; gear 3: 1300 rpm; gear 4: 2230 rpm
• Clutch Settings: 15
• Dimensions: 9.4 x 2.6 x 8.7 inches
• Tool Only Weight: 4.1 lbs
• Brushless Motor
• Full Metal Chuck
• Optimized Cooling
• Active Torque Control (ATC) helps prevent uncontrolled spinning if the drill bit sticks
• LED Work Light

Picture above is the speed selection switches that give this drill a huge range of control. The chuck also has a traditional clutch setting from 1-15 and a drill setting.

Hilti continues to build quality tools with less of the “bells and whistles” that some manufactures crank out. The SF 10W-22 has an all steel chuck with really good knurling on the chuck surface. The keyless design is simple and straightforward and locks bits into place really well.

The SF 10W-22 comes with a LED light mounted just above the battery which provides decent light for the work area. It also comes with a removable, multi-position side handle which is very useful considering the torque this drill produces.

Performance That Packs a Punch

There are lots of tools out there that continue to get smaller and lighter. The Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 isn’t small and it isn’t light. This is a large, powerful 1/2″ drill that not only delivers great torque for difficult drilling applications, but it also has a 15 step clutch, and 4 speed settings that allows users to also deal with delicate drilling applications. This much improved 1/2″ drill boasts a powerful brushless motor that cranks out the torque when paired with Hilti’s NURON line of batteries.

The torque that the Hilti SF 10W-22 produces is impressive to say the least. It mixes drywall compound easier than this drywall crews electric 1/2″ drill. The crew was impressed with the power and speed. The SF 10W-22 is impressive drilling wood as well. Designed for bits up to 6″ this drill can tackle any drilling applications that require the power of larger drills.

Final Thoughts – Hilti NURON SF 10W-22

Hilti’s updated NURON line-up has been impressive. The NURON SF 10W-22 1/2″ Drill Driver isn’t full of fancy extras, it’s a robust, quality built 1/2″ drill driver built for demanding drilling applications. Hilti continues to impress with really well built tools that are designed to take punishment on busy jobsites and keep working day after day. If you are looking for an extremely powerful 1/2″ drill this is one to consider. Priced at $289 for the bare tool, it’s a good value for the quality of this drill.

Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 Cordless Drill Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz