Making the cut
A handful of recent cutting tools and cutting tool accessories are taking the power tool category further down the path of increased utility and adaptability.
Assembled here are a collection that includes band saws, a reciprocating saw and a Japanese tooth power curve hardwood blade united by their ability to bring more to the job site. At work are themes of battery system compatibility, smart tool functionality and increased precision and durability.
Much of that can be seen with the Bosch Power Tools new 18V Compact Band Saw. It is up to 60% lighter and 40% more compact than standard deep-cut band saws, drastically enhancing its ability to make clean, precise cuts in tight workspaces, overhead, or in corners.
The new band saw adds to Bosch’s 18V cordless portfolio, which is building a strong ecosystem based around its 18V battery packs and technology.
With a new lightweight design, this cutting-edge power tool is only 7.3 pounds, yet built to deliver an impressive cut rate of 530 surface feet per minute.
Also cordless, and also in the band saw category, Makita U.S.A. has introduced two new compact band saws for efficient metal cutting in tight spaces and overhead cutting applications.
The Makita 18V LXT Compact Brushless Cordless Band Saw (XBP04) and the sub-compact version (XBP05) meet ANSI blade guarding requirements for one-handed operation, making them ideal for a range of metal cutting tasks in tight spaces.
The 18V LXT Compact Brushless Cordless Band Saw (XBP04) features a 2-5/8" cutting capacity is ideal for cutting a variety of metal materials. (shown here)
The 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless Band Saw (XBP05) is smaller and lighter than premium power tools. It can make up to 160 cuts of ¾” EMT with an 18V LXT 2.0Ah Battery and has a 2” x 2” cutting capacity.
The XBP04 has a trigger switch with lock-off feature that requires two actions to power-on the band saw. A catch bar helps eliminate accidental follow through during repetitive cutting. Other features include a built in L.E.D. light that illuminates the work area for more efficient work, rubber bumpers, and a removable hook.
With a durability and versatility message, Milwaukee Tool has unveiled its newest M18 FUEL Sawzall Reciprocating Saw. Designed for the toughest applications on the jobsite, it’s described as the fastest cutting reciprocating saw in its class and the most durable Sawzall Reciprocating Saw yet.
The tool is also available is a version with One-Key, which allows users to dial in performance for unique applications such as adjusting the speed for smoother cut starts and engaging a CUT-BRAKE. The CUT-BRAKE automatically stops the blade from reciprocating after a cut is completed in most cutting applications, helping to avoid cutting sensitive or unintended materials. Users can create their own modes and, with the touch of a button on the tool, easily go back and forth between up to 3 saved modes (profiles) so each application is done with the most accurate and productive settings. Once the tool is set, a phone is no longer needed. Within the One-Key app, users also can track the tool with community tracking and alerts, and digitally manage it in their inventory.
The PowerState Brushless Motor provides 3,000 SPM and a 1-1/4” stroke length for faster material removal, allowing this tool to make the fastest cuts in common job site materials such as wood with nails, black pipe, and conduit. RedLink Plus Intelligence ensures maximum performance under load as well as protection from overloading.
The slide crank mechanism has been a key component of the Sawzall saw for decades, according to the company. And this new saw features a mechanism built with improved dust and water ingress, and overall durability.
For precise cutting, Imperial Blades’ One fit Japanese tooth power curve hardwood blade is ideal for hardwood, wood, PVC and drywall. And the product is engineered to be up to twice as fast as previous model standard wood blades.
The Triple-ground Japanese tooth design generates fast, clean, and precise cuts in wood. And the new Power Curve cutting edge provides greater control and easier starts while plunge cutting
Tool compatibility is also big story at Imperial Blades, whose oscillating multi-tool accessories can be used across the spectrum of tool brands. Hence the slogan: “Every tool. Every user. Every application.”
Durability is a big part of the story at Diablo with the introduction of its 6 ½-inch 24-tooth Tracking Point saw blade. And so is control and precision.
This new blade produces accurate, smooth cuts on framing materials without bogging down cordless power tools. Designed with the professional user in mind, this next generation blade increases jobsite efficiencies with the introduction of Tracking Point, a "rudder" like tooth design that reduces vibration and tension, allowing for true, straight cuts, the company states. The company also says that end-users can feel confident that "unplugging" with Diablo will deliver up to 65% more cuts per charge in cordless saws.
Cutting efficiencies are enhanced by a Perma-SHIELD nonstick coating and the super-thin kerf, which minimizes material removal and produces a fast, clean cut. This 24-tooth framing blade is light, and also ideal for framers, roofers, remodelers, concrete formers or anyone who owns a saw that chews through nail-embedded wood.
Diablo is a brand of Freud America.