An around-the-garage roundup
For this month’s roundup, HCN took exit 10 off the Turnpike for a visit to Ken’s New Jersey Garage, the setting of the fastest new product show on the Internet. But take your time reviewing this month’s products in print.
Bosch Daredevil framing blade
Designed to satisfy the framer who appreciates fast, clean cuts, the Bosch Daredevil circular saw framing blades combine the benefits of thin-kerf blades with an extra-hard steel play. Hence the slogan: Starts sharper, stays sharper. Micrograin carbide teeth resist impact damage. The growing Daredevil family also includes spade and auger bits. A 10-in. and 12-in. blade are coming in early 2012. The Daredevil sells for about $10. The 7 ¼-in. blade shown here sells for about $10. (boschtools.com)
Johnny Jolter plunger
From K-CO Products, the Johnny Jolter Professional Plunger draws water into its large chamber, allowing the plunger arm to work its brand of magic. The 3-step value proposition is very clear on its packaging: one push, no mess, toilet clear. It even disassembles for easy cleaning. The made-in-the-USA product sells for about $30.
(kco-innovations.com)
Coast HP7 LED Flashlight
Flashlights continue to get better and brighter. Here’s a particularly bright new product from Portland, Ore.-based Coast Products. The 5.5-in. aluminum casing projects 251 lumens of light with a beam distance of 643 ft. in high mode. But it’s not only bright; the HP7 has a Pure Beam Focusing System and Fingertip Speed Focus Control. By moving the front bezel back and forth, the user controls the breadth of the beam from spotlight to wide angle. It comes with four AAA batteries and sells for about $50. (coastportland.com)
Irwin Torpedo Level
Irwin’s 250 Series Magnetic Torpedo Level has more than a few handy features, starting with rare earth magnets allowing for hands-free steel construction work. A cutaway section along the edge allows a clear view into the vial when the level is in the plumb position. In addition, a handy yellow button pops out to provide a reading for quarter-inch-per-foot drainage inclines. The 9-in. tool sells for about $25. (irwin.com)
Channellock 18 ‘N 1 Screwdriver
Packaged with eight double-sided drill bits that are stored in a compartment in the handle of the screwdriver, this hand tool has a high-torque grip bolstered by a ratcheting-action handle. The screwdriver comes equipped with slotted Phillips, Torx, hex and nutdriver bits — 18 different sizes total (some bit heads perform double duty). The Code Blue 18 ‘N 1 with the distinctive red and Chanellock Blue handle sells for about $19. (channellock.com)
Grime Boss hand cleaning wipes Here’s a product for every garage — Grime Boss Heavy Duty Hand Cleaning Wipes. The active ingredient is a moisturizing formula known as Pro-Klean. Not just a wet paper towel, the Grime Boss is designed with a tough scrubbing side that removes stuck-on residue and a smooth gentle side for cleaning hands and arms. The “2 in 1 Action Scrub” is tough enough for the big messes, and it also smells of citrus. The resealable package shown here has 10 wipes. A package of 10 10-packs sells for about $20. (grimeboss.com)
Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue
Some super glues have a tendency to drip all over the place, including on the fingers. But Loctite’s Ultra Gel Control Super Glue’s no-drip gel formula combined with the “Control” applicator brings ease-of-use to new heights in this category. The formula includes the impact resistance of pure rubber to provide a more durable bond, according to the company. The Henkel product sells for about $4 for a 4-gram bottle. (loctiteproducts.com)