2013 Pro Tool Innovation Awards – Cordless Tools
Cordless tools have taken on a very competitive nature in the past few years, with new models coming out every […]
Porter-Cable PCCK640LB 20V Max Impact Driver Kit Review
When I first got my hands on the new Porter-Cable PCCK640LB 20V Max Impact Driver Kit, it was clear the […]
Porter-Cable PCE201 4.3-amp Impact Driver Preview
Porter-Cable is addressing the problem of needing the power of a cordless impact drivers, but for extended-use applications. They launched the 1/4-inch Hex 4.3-Amp PCE201 specifically to give tradesmen an option in the workplace. This impact driver is designed for deck builders, steel roofing installers and other tradesmen who complete numerous fastening applications in challenging workplaces (but who have easy access to power).
Porter-Cable 3-amp Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit PCE605K
We were impressed by Porter-Cable’s 12V and 18V Multi-tool’s which, most notably, use a tool-less blade change system. This week, the company launched a 3-amp Corded Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit (model PCE605K), which, with the right blade, should be able to cut through just about anything you put it against. Corded oscillating multi-tools are important in the market as they delivers both the performance needed for tougher applications, and also the endless run-time demanded by larger jobs.
Porter-Cable PCC475B 18V ClampSaw Reciprocating Saw
Last year we did a pretty thorough review of the Porter-Cable PCL120CRC-2 ClampSaw Reciprocating Saw. That is a 12V product that […]
Porter-Cable PCC581B 18V Infrared Thermometer Review
Getting a quick and accurate bead on the temperature differential around an AC duct or a door can be a lifesaver for air mechanical technicians and energy efficiency specialists. While there are a lot of tools on the market that can help you do this, it’s nice to be able to reach for a familiar name – particularly when your shop is already equipped with compatible batteries and chargers. Recently Porter-Cable launched the PCC581B Infrared Thermometer, which comes as a bare tool, making it a great choice if you’re already vested in their 18V cordless platform. And if you’re not, Porter Cable also offers a 9V-powered version, the PCC582B. Both of these infrared thermometers incorporate a tri-color beam that indicates temperature changes visually along with the digital readout. When you pull the trigger, the thermometer takes a reference temperature reading while it projects a circular green beam onto the surface at which it is aimed. The projected beam colors change when a difference in temperature is detected as you scan it across an area. A blue beam identifies a cooler spot, and a red beam indicates a hotter area.
Porter-Cable PCC520B 18V Close Quarters Drill Review
We’ve certainly had our experiences with attempting to drill in tight spaces. When we saw the new PCC520B 18V Two-Speed Close Quarters Drill from Porter-Cable, the unusual-looking tool struck us as something that made a lot of sense. This is a tool that Porter-Cable needed to add to its line-up, and one that we were excited to finally be testing on the jobsite. The PCC520B bills itself as a truly compact drilling solution, measuring 5.5″ in length and weighing only 2.4 pounds. It’s so short, in fact, that it measures less than a competitor’s 12V Pocket Driver that uses a less flexible hex chuck. Even though the tool looks a bit odd, with its double-stacked chuck-over-motor configuration, it’s actually very well-balanced.
Porter-Cable PCC580B 18V Battery Status Indicator Preview
Porter-Cable isn’t known for their advanced battery technology – particularly when it comes to knowing how much charge is left. They seem to be taking that into account and have released an 18V Battery Status Indicator (PCC580B). The 18V Battery Status Indicator is a very simple, very inexpensive tool that lets owners and users of Porter-Cable’s power tools to check the battery charge status quickly and easily. This is one way in which you can avoid slapping in a dead battery and climbing up that ladder – only to realize that you need to clamber back down and get a fresh one.
Porter-Cable PCC583B 18V High-Pressure/Volume Inflator Preview
Porter-Cable launched a new 18V High-Pressure/High-Volume Inflator (PCC583B) that can also run on 12 Volt DC-power. The inflator is designed to deliver both speed and ease of use at a value customers can appreciate. Porter-Cable’s 18V Cordless High-Pressure/High-Volume Inflator PCC583B is made to allow people who may be, literally, in the middle of nowhere quick and accurate inflation. In a sense, their motto seems to be: “No power? No problem!” Since it’s Porter-Cable, the inflator can be powered from either an 18V Lithium-ion or NiCd battery. But, it can also take power via a 12V DC power source – like a car or truck battery. It does this via the included 10-foot DC power cord which should allow access to all four tires as needed.
Porter-Cable PC60TPAG Angle Grinder Cut-Off Tool Preview
This week Porter-Cable announced a couple of new products due out in October of this year (next month), including their new PC60TPAG 7-amp 4-1/2″ Small Angle Grinder and Cut-off Tool. The new Angle Grinder really seems to benefit form some of the advances the company has made with its cordless tools. In particular, the tool is lighter and more agile than its predecessors and it delivers excellent performance while still maintaining an ergonomic form factor.