There’s a reason popular brands are so, well, popular. They’re often better quality, higher performing, more innovative, offer a better value, or a combination. But they all had to start somewhere, and there are some cool products are available from smaller brands that you might not have heard of before. I’ve pulled together 10 of my favorites in hopes you might find a gem or two that can help your next job run more efficiently.
1. IVY Classic Mega Magnetic Bit Holder
The Ivy Classic Mega Magnetic Bit Holder aims to solve one of the simplest (and most frustrating) problems you’ll encounter during a project…dropping fasteners! This bit holder accepts any 1-inch hex shank bits and features two magnets that deliver 40X the pulling power of an ordinary magnetic bit.
The internal magnet secures and magnetizes the 1-inch bit, but then the outer circular magnet slides forward to make contact with your fastener. This two-part system is simple, effective, and solves a small problem that has plagued tradesmen for decades!
Price: $14.11
2. Steelman 4-in-1 Plumber’s Wrench
The Steelman 4-in-1 Plumber’s Wrench features a unique two-piece interlocking design with dual-size wrench heads (9/16-inch and 15/16-inch), a riser mouth insert, and a 5/8-inch flare nut wrench. The tool body is constructed of chrome vanadium steel, which is durable and corrosion-resistant. This versatility is ideal for working on straight valves, angle stops, supply lines, and even tightening toilet flange bolts.
The beauty of this design is that it enables you to accomplish more with fewer tools in your kit. Plus, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty for added peace of mind!
Price: $28.99
3. Edge Concepts MultiPail
A bucket is just a bucket, right? Well, not anymore! The MultiPail has three main features that set it apart from your ordinary 5-gallon bucket. First, the flat side pulls double duty as both a dust pan and a paint tray that’s compatible with standard paint rollers. On the other side, you have an integrated pour spout that helps mitigate any drips down the side when transferring liquids.
Other notable features include printed imperial and metric measurements on the side and a large bottom lip, which provides a solid grip point when pouring. What I love about the design is that it eliminates the need for additional accessories that could get lost or break, making this a great all-in-one solution for Pros and DIYers alike.
Price: $12.99
4. NW Quik Pull Post Puller
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of removing a fence post or decorative shrub by hand, you’ll want to pay attention! The NW Quik Pull Post Puller features a sturdy steel tube tripod frame that is designed to sit directly over the object you’re removing. The pivoting arm delivers up to 10,000 pounds of pulling pressure and sports two pulling positions, allowing you to prioritize between maximum torque and longer throw.
Since this is a heavy-duty tool, it’s designed to work with grade 70 chain—the same chain used for securing heavy equipment during transport. Moreover, the feet are wide enough to fit over a 4×4, giving you better stability on softer soils.
Archimedes once said, “Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world”, and the NW Quik Pull Post Puller is here to deliver on that!
Price: $1995
5. Fence Armor RotGuard Self-Adhesive Wrap
It’s common knowledge that moisture, mold, and fungi are the natural enemies of wood, but Fence Armor believes they have a solution. The Fence Armor RotGuard self-adhesive wrap provides an effective barrier that protects fence posts from ground-line rot. This area of soil is a critical zone where moisture, oxygen, and microbes meet, causing premature damage. This barrier helps extend the life of your posts, ultimately protecting your investment and saving you a little cash as well.
Applying this wrap requires no heat, staples, or other special tools, and it won’t melt if left in a hot truck or trailer. Moreover, Fence Armor gives you a 25-year replacement guarantee for long-lasting peace of mind.
Price: $49.99 (20ft roll)
6. PowerBoot Bit and Accessory Holder
Over the years, tool manufacturers have greatly improved onboard storage designs, but the PowerBoot takes bit and accessory storage to a whole new level. This unique compartment features three magnetic surfaces that can easily hold bits, screws, and even blades right on the tool.
The compartment mounts directly to the bottom of your battery using adhesive tape. If you want to transfer the PowerBoot between batteries, you’ll need to grab the PowerBoot Switch mounting plates. It’s extra step and expense, but it offers an extra level of convenience if you’re working with multiple batteries.
Of course, this means bulking up the footprint of your batteries that can get in the way or even render it unusable in enclosed compartments, like on a jobsite radio. But for some users, it can be a convenient add-on.
Price: $39.95
7. Smart-Barrow Motorized WheelBarrow System
Transporting heavy loads with a traditional wheelbarrow can be a daunting task, especially if you’re moving over soft or uneven terrain. That’s where the Smart-Barrow comes to the rescue. We’ve seen motorized carts before, specifically the Greenworks 60V Garden Cart, but the Smart-Barrow transforms your ordinary wheelbarrow into a battery-powered workhorse in a matter of minutes.
This system replaces the stock wheel with a motorized hub assembly that can be powered by either Milwaukee M18 batteries or DeWalt 20V batteries. All in, this motorized wheelbarrow can transport up to 500 pounds of material with ease.
Whether you’re a seasoned Pro, or a serious DIYer, a powered wheelbarrow is a great companion for tough projects. Just like the old adage says, “work smarter, not harder”.
Price: $1250
8. CH Hanson SharpDraw Heavy-Duty Carpenter Pencil
The SharpDraw Heavy-Duty Carpenter Pencil puts a fresh spin on a jobsite essential. This pencil features a refillable carbon fiber reinforced graphite pencil blade that never needs sharpening. The blade itself is incredibly tough and resistant to breaking, plus, it always marks a consistent 1mm wide line.
The SharpDraw combines the simplicity of a traditional carpenter pencil with the precision of a ballpoint pen. It’s convenient, tough, and always ready for you to make your mark.
Price: $6.40
9. Quick Dam Flood Bags
When disaster strikes, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in the world. The Quick Dam Flood Bags are sandless sandbags (I know) that use a water-activated powder that absorbs water and swells to create a barrier against oncoming water. Compared to traditional sandbags, the flood bags are lightweight, easy to deploy, and can be stored inside your home year-round.
They come in a variety of sizes, but the standard bag measures 1×2 feet, and the jumbo bag measures 1×4 feet. Both are roughly 3.5 inches thick when at capacity, and you can stack them just like traditional sandbags.
These bags and their contents are environmentally safe, non-toxic, and non-hazardous. So, when the waters have receded, you can either set them aside to naturally decompose or throw them in the trash.
Price: Varies
10. BackSaver Hammer Drill Attachment
We’re always on the lookout for tools that make life on the jobsite a little easier, and the BackSaver Drill Attachment aims to be among them. This attachment allows you to stand upright and use your leg to apply pressure to the tool while drilling horizontal holes for concrete dowels at or near ground level, avoiding excess fatigue and back strain.
It’s compatible with a variety of corded and cordless drills from Bosch, Makita, DeWalt, Hilti, Milwaukee, and Metabo HPT.
A word of warning, though. This device completely changes your perspective while you’re drilling. You’ll need to practice to ensure you’re able to make accurate starts and keep the bit drilling straight into your material. Dealing with bit bind-up incidents will also feel different than you’re used to.
Price: $626
Dear Pro Tool Reviews, this is Bernard, Founder of PowerBoot Tools. Just came across this recently written and terrific review of PowerBoot and wanted to reach out and thank you! At the end of your review, you mention that the use of PowerBoot will bulk up the footprint of your batteries and that’s true if you’re using PowerBoot without the PowerBoot Switch (in that case, PowerBoot is adhered to a single battery). With the PowerBoot Switch, you gain much more flexibility in being able to transfer PowerBoot between batteries and in addition, users working in tight spaces can remove PowerBoot from the Switch and then the only bulk that remains on their drill is the 1/4″ thin, lightweight galvanized steel plate. Just wanted to let your readers know they have the option to remove PowerBoot from their cordless tool as they choose. Thanks again for the wonderful review!