Craftsman has come out with a new cordless fan, CMCE001B, as part of their V20 cordless power tool system. Craftsman has also recently released a new cordless tile saw.

The new Craftsman cordless fan can deliver up to 650 CFM and has 3 speed settings. The fan head can pivot up to 240° for easier aiming.

• Up to 650 CFM airflow
• 3 speed settings
• Up to 8 hrs runtime on high, over 24 hrs on low (with a V20 4.0Ah battery)
• AC/DC power options
• Weighs 4.4 lbs

At the rear, you can see a cover to the AC port. You should be able to use any standard extension cord for plugging the fan into an AC outlet. There also looks to be a built-in VersaTrack hook right on the base, saving you from having to purchase it as an accessory.

Price: $59

The fan is sold as a bare tool, meaning you’ll need your own Craftsman V20 battery and charger.

Buy Now via Lowes
Compare: Dewalt Fan via Amazon

Discussion

Compared to Dewalt’s cordless fan, DCE511B, the new Craftsman fan has higher airflow specs, but fewer mounting options and no IP54 rating. It does have 3 speed settings, pivoting head, lighter weight, both DC and AC power capabilities, and a lower price tag.

This seems like a nice addition to Craftsman’s growing V20 cordless power tool system.

It’s available now at Lowes, and will probably (possibly?) be carried by Amazon as well.

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Craftsman is soon introducing a new cordless heat gun, further expanding their growing V20 cordless power tool system.

The new Craftsman cordless heat gun, CMCE530B, can deliver a max temperature of 950°F and they say it can reach “operational temperature” in just 7 seconds.

Craftsman’s website says that you can expect for up to 15 minutes of runtime per battery charge, although the battery capacity is not specified.

It’s compact, so that you can fit into tight spaces, and the slide-style battery pack (sold separately) provides a stable base for “hands-free operation.” There looks to be a lock-out switch built into the trigger, although I can’t see where a potential lock-on switch might be.

The heat gun ships with a deflector and spreader nozzles. A deflector nozzle us usually useful for diverting even heat around your work material, such as heat shrink tubing or plastic tubing that needs to be softened, and a spreader nozzle does exactly what the name implies. Spreader nozzles are useful for applications such as drying, shaping, and stripping paint.

Price: $99 for the bare tool

Buy Now via Lowes – coming soon

Thank you to mizzourob for the heads-up!

See More Craftsman Cordless News

Discussion

Raise your hand if you’re happy to see Craftsman come out with a new cordless heat gun.

*Raises hand.*

See Also

Dewalt also came out with a cordless heat gun, DCE530, earlier this year. The Dewalt heat gun has some more features compared to the Craftsman. Still, I’m glad to read that the Craftsman heat gun comes with the same nozzles, or at least similar ones.

Read More: Dewalt Cordless Heat Gun

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Makita has come out with a new 18V heated blanket, model DCB200A. You heard that right – it’s a heated blanket.

It features 3 heat settings, up to 35 hrs of runtime (on the low setting with a 6.0Ah battery), and the included power port can also charge your USB-compatible portable electronic devices.

There are snap buttons and a strap, allowing you to securely wear it over your shoulders.

Or, wrap it around your waist to keep your upper legs warm and toasty.

From the product photos, the inner lining looks to be a warm and fuzzy blue fleece-like material. The outer layer is made from polyester for wind and water resistance.

The battery and power adapter are stowed away in a zippered compartment. The blanket has on/off controls with an LED indicator light.

It can be washed in a household washer and dryer.

Makita bundles their 18V heated blanket with a storage bag for convenient carrying and storage.

Dimensions: 27-1/2″ x 55″

Price: $100 for the bare tool

Buy Now via Ohio Power Tool
Buy Now via Amazon

Discussion

In writing this post, I accidentally substituted “heated jacket” for “heated blanket” in almost every instance of the word. A heated blanket? Surely that’s an odd idea, right? In the product photos, the expression on the model’s face says it all.

Wrapped around shoulders? Fashioned into a skirt-like waist and leg wrap?

But boy does the new Makita heated blanket sure do look comfortable.

You could wrap a cold body part with a heated jacket, but unless you’re wearing it as a jacket, it’s going to be awkward and inefficient.

Will something like this get used on the jobsite? I think it might definitely be used in recreational settings, at the least.

The concept seems a little strange at first, but it makes sense, and more heated gear options are good.

Will you be buying a warm and fuzzy Makita heated blanket? If you bought into a different brand’s cordless power tool system, would you want that brand to come out with something similar?

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This fine October Monday, Home Depot has another tool-related deals of the day event, featuring Milwaukee cordless power tools and a couple of other tool-related deals.

Some of the deals are quite good. The M18 Fuel One-Key brushless table saw, for example, is on sale for $449, from a regular price of $599. We saw similar one-day pricing last month, and it still seems to be a great price.

• Milwaukee M18 Fuel One-Key table saw kit with 12.0Ah Battery: $449
• Milwaukee M18 Fuel brushless chainsaw kit with Gen II blower: $399
• Milwaukee M12 cordless inflator with 2.0Ah battery: $95

The inflator is also a good deal – here’s Andrew’s review on it. The bare tool is typically priced at $79. So for $95 you’re basically buying the bare tool and then the 2.0Ah battery at ~$16. This isn’t an unbeatable bargain, but it’s a good price if you have an M18/M12 charger and want the inflator but don’t already have an M12 battery to go along with it.

The M18 Fuel chainsaw kit and blower bundle is also a good deal, given that the chainsaw kit typically sells for $449 by itself.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Milwaukee M12 Fuel 3/8″ ratchet with free 2.0Ah battery: $139
• Milwaukee M18 short throw press tool kit with PEX crimp jaws and M12 PVC shear kit: $619
• Milwaukee M12 Fuel cordless cut-off saw with free 2.0Ah battery: $109
• Milwaukee M12 3/8″ crown stapler with free 2.0Ah battery: $89

To me, these M12 bare tool and free battery deals always scream to me: “c’mon M18 users, give M12 a try, you know you want to…” This is a really good strategy if you ask me. The chargers bundled in M18 cordless power tool kits come with M18 and M12 charging ports, and so you only need an M12 tool and battery to get started.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Milwaukee M12 band saw with free 2.0Ah battery: $129
• Ridgid 4 gal wet/dry vac with detachable blower: $69
• Milwaukee 9pc oscillating multi-tool blade kit: $60
• Milwaukee M12 rover LED compact flood light with free 2.0Ah battery: $69

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2″ ratchet with free 2.0Ah battery: $164
• Milwaukee M18 short throw (Viega) PEX press tool kit with free M12 PVC shear kit: $618
• Milwaukee M12 Rocket LED work light with free 2.0Ah battery: $129
• Milwaukee 25′ Stud tape measure 2-pack: $25

I love the output and small size of the M12 Rocket LED work light. We have review samples of all of the Rocket lights, and I prefer this size most of all given its versatility. Its smaller size makes it easier to transport, and also means it can fit in smaller or more awkward spaces.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Bosch Blaze One 165 ft laser distance measuring tool: $40
• Milwaukee M12 auger snake drain cleaning kit with free 2.0Ah battery: $189
• Milwaukee M12 Trap Snake 6ft toilet auger drain cleaning kit: $109
• Dewalt 20V Max 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $229

The M12 Trap Snake kit seems like a great price at just $109. Other retails have this kit for $149.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Ryobi 18V 5-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $229
  • Miter saw
  • Drill
  • Reciprocating saw
  • Circular saw
  • Worklight
• Ryobi 18V 5-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $279
  • Brushless drill
  • Brushless impact driver
  • Brushless circular saw
  • Brushless angle driver/cut-off tool
  • LED worklight
• Ryobi 18V 5-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $149
  • Drill
  • Impact driver
  • Circular saw
  • Reciprocating saw
  • LED worklight
• Wolverine Jetstream composite toe work shoes: $36

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/8/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

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A couple of months ago, we asked what the new Makita XGT cordless power tools would be like. Well, now we know. Makita recently shared a teaser about their new XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system.

At this time, there is a lot we know about the new Makita XGT cordless power tool launch, but there are also lots of questions.

Let’s start by talking about what we know so far.

Makita XGT 40V Max Batteries

Makita XGT will be a 40V Max cordless power tool system.

This isn’t the first time Makita has gone with “Max” voltage designations, but it’s still interesting to note that this is a 40V Max system and not 36V. This is presumably to differentiate the new XGT tools and batteries from Makita’s existing 36V platform.

Makita XGT batteries have as few as 10 Li-ion cells.

What this means is that, in theory, a Makita XGT battery pack should not be any larger than 10-cell 18V battery packs, depending on the cell technology within.

There will be 2 battery sizes to start with – a 40V Max 2.5Ah battery (BL4025), and a 40V Max 4.0Ah battery (BL4040). It’s the 2.5Ah battery that is shown as being built with 10 Li-ion cells. Both of these Makita XGT batteries have LED fuel gauges with 4 indicator positions.

Is the new Makita XGT 40V Max 4.0Ah battery built with larger cells than the XGT 2.5Ah battery? It could be that the 2.5Ah battery is built with 18650-sized Li-ion cells, and the 4.0Ah battery with 21700-sized cells.

Makita XGT Impact Driver

Makita says that XGT will be a Smart System, and they show off a number of new tools, starting with this XGT-branded brushless impact driver.

From the apparent size of the battery packs, I would have guessed that Makita XGT are based on 21700-sized Li-ion cells. However, 21700-sized cells usually start at 3.0Ah. Therefore, I would be led to believe that the 2.5Ah battery is based on 18650 cell technology, and the larger 4.0Ah battery might built with larger 21700-sized Li-ion cells.

It’s also difficult to gauge battery size based on Makita’s impact drivers, since theirs are among the most compact cordless impact drivers that exist today.

Makita XGT Drills

There’s also a beefy-looking Makita XGT brushless hammer drill/driver.

There will be both drill/driver and hammer drill versions.

Makita XGT Reciprocating Saw

Here’s a look at the new heavy duty Makita XGT reciprocating saw, which is also presumed to be powered by a brushless motor.

Makita XGT Circular Saw

Here’s the new Makita XGT brushless circular saw.

Makita XGT Miter Saw

The Makita XGT line will also be launching with a brushless cordless miter saw, although it’s not clear as to what blade size it will use.

Makita XGT Rotary Hammer

If the new Makita XGT brushless rotary hammer is shown equipped with the 2.5Ah battery, what kinds of other tools will be coming out that can take advantage of the 4.0Ah battery?!

Makita XGT Angle Grinder

Here’s the XGT angle grinder/cut-off tool.

At first I thought the Makita XGT angle grinder was just a cut-off tool, but this image cleared things up.

Is it me, or does the Makita XGT angle grinder handle look slim and somewhat futuristic? Is it the rendering?

Makita XGT Battery Charger

There’s a new Makita XGT charger, DC40RA.

Until someone can translate the Japanese captioning in Makita’s promo video, I’m going to assume that this imagery of Makita XGT tools, batteries, and chargers playing well with each other means that it’ll be its own system.

The batteries are said to have an IP56 rating for water and dust resistance.

Makita XGT Cordless Power Tools Launch Summary

Remember, these are international designations. Makita USA has not announced these tools for US release yet. We previously asked Makita USA about when XGT details would be available but never heard back.

• Impact driver: TD001G
• Circular saw: HS001G, HS002G
• Hammer drill: HP001G
• Drill/driver: HP001G
• Miter saw: LS001G
• Rotary hammer: HR001GRDXV, HR001GRDX
• Angle grinders: GA001G (100mm), GA002G (125mm)
• Reciprocating saw: JR001G

Discussion

Take a look at the new Maktia XGT cordless power tool batteries.

Here’s a closer look.

Here’s a Makita 18V 5.0Ah battery.

I imagine that the top question will be whether the new Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tools and batteries be compatible with Makita 18V LXT cordless power tools and batteries? From appearances, I don’t think so.

If Makita 40V Max XGT cordless tools, batteries, and chargers were cross-compatible with Makita 18V tools, batteries, and chargers, then wouldn’t Makita’s initial launch information mention this in any way? Because it doesn’t, that’s a very strong suggestion that there won’t be any cross-compatibility.

The new Makita XGT cordless power tool system also does not look to be a multi-voltage system in the same manner as Dewalt FlexVolt or Hitachi/Metabo HPT’s MultiVolt systems.

Will Makita XGT be replacing their 18V lineup? I don’t think so, and I would also hope not.

Why would Makita come out with a 40V Max cordless power tool system? Well, 18V cordless power tools are compact, but there’s a limit as to how much power Makita’s current-generation 18V batteries can deliver. That’s why their 18V X2 cordless power tools are powered by pairs of batteries, effectively making them 36V tools.

36V cordless power tools have been popular with some users, but such product lines have been very limited in the past. 18V cordless power tools are often much smaller, lighter, and less expensive, making them more popular choices for most tool users today.

With Makita’s 18V X2 system, the tool brand gave users the ability to use higher-powered 36V-class tools with 18V batteries that are tied to a larger and popular system of more compact cordless power tools. But, Makita’s 18V X2 cordless power tools are still somewhat large and heavy compared to 18V-class tools.

With this new Makita XGT cordless power tool system, it seems that users will get 36V/40V Max -class performance in what look to be 18V-sized tools.

Makita seems to have reached the ceiling as to what they can do with their 18V Li-ion battery packs. Among their competitors, most notably Dewalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, and even Metabo HPT, Makita is the only one that has not yet moved to 18V battery packs built with larger form factor Li-ion cells. That puts them at a disadvantage with respect to designing and powering the next generation of cordless power tools.

Starting fresh with the new XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system, assuming there is no cross-compatibility with their 18V system, will give Makita greater freedoms in designing their next-gen power tools.

I would imagine that some tools might come out to both platforms. It’s hard to guess about what could happen, at least until the XGT line is announced in the USA and we can ask Makita USA for official comments and clarity.

Back when I first learned about Makita XGT from their trademark application, I predicted that either:

1. XGT might be a complementary technology, such as a new series of higher performing battery packs built with larger form factor Li-ion cells, similar to Milwaukee’s M18 HD and HO battery technology, or Bosch’s CORE18V.
2. XGT might be a new and distinct cordless system that stands apart from their 18V LXT product catalog, perhaps similar to Dewalt’s FlexVolt cordless power tool platform, or Metabo HPT’s MultiVolt system.

The two possibilities were not mutually exclusive, and we don’t yet have full details. But, all of the information we have so far points to Makita XGT being a brand new and separate cordless power tool system.

Speaking objectively, I believe that the new Makita XGT cordless power tool system puts them in a better competitive position, and will also better equip them to design and develop a new generation of cordless power tools.

At this time, we only know a little about what’s coming to the new Makita XGT cordless system, and not yet enough to answer the question of “why should users buy these tools over other available options?”

Makita XGT offerings have the potential to outperform 18V-class tools, but we don’t yet know how Makita will utilize that potential to deliver real-world advantages for users.

In other words, we’re excited at finally learning what XGT is all about, but we haven’t learned enough to be excited about the new tools, batteries, or tech just yet.

Following is Makita’s launch video. Please let us know if you can gather any additional details from the captions.

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Did you know that EGO makes a 56V cordless string trimmer with carbon fiber shaft? EGO had sent us a new cordless trimmer (ST1520S) over the summer, but allergies and a heavy workload kept me from testing it sooner. I put two hours in with the new trimmer, and learned a few things about it.

Why buy THIS model? EGO offers a couple of different cordless 15″ string trimmers. The main selling points of this model are the Powerload line reload feature and the carbon fiber shaft. You could do without them, but personally I am really liking the auto-winding head. Having experienced it, I’d pay the premium for this feature.

To start off, let me tell you how I tested it. We had some trees removed last winter, and a whole lot of tall weeds and grasses popped up in those areas that wrap around the perimeter of our property. Yesterday it was time to start battling the overgrowth. These areas grow some weeds every year, but I’m guessing the reduced shade really let them grow wild and fast.

I had only cleared out maybe 20% of the overgrowth, and so there will be plenty of more testing opportunities in the next week or two.

Most of the tall grasses and weeds were between live trees, and some were right up to the trunks. There were also some obstructions, such as large rocks and a 4×4 or two that I guess diverts some rainwater to a shared drain slightly downhill. So, most of the use so far was done in open areas, but I also had to do some edging and trimming around barriers and trees.

Assembly was a cinch. I had a little trouble until I flexed the joint against a workbench and the holes lined up perfectly. The trimmer arrives folded up in a half-height box. To set it up, you close the hinged joint and fasten the two ends of the shaft together with a single screw. Then, it’s quick to attach the guard and front handle.

There’s also a straight shaft version, ST1520.

EGO preloads the trimmer and includes a second pre-cut replacement line. Replacement line is easily available. I bought a 5-pack of pre-cut 14-foot twisted 0.095″ line at Home Depot and also have a pack of 160 ft uncut line on the way from Amazon.

Trimmer Reloading is easy. You load it through the trimmer head mid-way, and then press a button near the head to wind it up.

There was an instance where somehow the line was broken and retracted inside the head, and so I had the chance to test the clearing process should you wind up the line too far and into the head. Removing the cap wasn’t effortless, but maybe it’ll be easier the second time around now that I know exactly how to push the tabs in.

Advancing the Line is done by bumping the head down. It’s quick and easy.

The Carbon Fiber Shaft is described as being stronger than any other string trimmer shaft on the market today. When I went to Home Depot to pick up a 5-pack of replacement line, I saw an Echo cordless string trimmer with a bent metal shaft. EGO says the carbon fiber shaft has a lifetime warranty, guaranteeing its strength and durability forever.

Carbon fiber also damps vibrations better than other materials, and so I wonder if it has anti-vibration benefits here.

During Testing, I didn’t make much use of the variable speed control. I went at the overgrowth at full power. After some time I started trimming the taller weeds and grass from the top down, and then clearing them out from the side.

I somehow went through both of the included pre-cut lines, and more than 3x 5.0Ah battery charges. I have three 5.0Ah batteries from an EGO cordless snow blower review sample and other past samples, I cycled through all three batteries. I *believe* they were fully charged, or at least nearly. In the maybe 2 to 2-1/2 hours I was out there, I had depleted three batteries in a row and then taken the first one off the charger I had out. I was on my fourth 5.0Ah battery charge when I ran out of line.

The testing conditions were very aggressive and very demanding. It’d be better if I could rent a brush cutter or mower, but the EGO 15″ trimmer worked well and even better than I had expected. I have not cleared an area this large with a string trimmer before.

The trimmer was also easy to control around trees.

If it can handle this, it’ll work just fine for lighter trimming tasks.

Overall

I’ve been a fan of EGO cordless power tools, and this one is no different. I might have opted for the straight shaft version if I were purchasing the tool, but the split shaft version is less expensive and could potentially be folded back up for seasonal storage.

I jammed the motor a couple of times, and it started right back up each time. I’d say that I abused the tool, and kept it running nearly continuously for a little over two hours. My three 5.0Ah batteries could have kept me going for even longer, but I ran out of line.

The runtime was actually impressive given how I was using the trimmer to cut thick tall grass and thicker-stemmed weeds that I had no business using a string trimmer on. I think that the 2.5Ah battery included in the kits would power the trimmer through at least several quick maintenance-trimming sessions.

I might try it with a 2.5Ah battery, but I don’t think there will be much benefit to ergonomics or weight. Buying into EGO’s 56V cordless outdoor power system is easier on the wallet if you go with the 2.5Ah kit. But if you already have a charger and 5.0Ah battery, the bare tool is a good option.

The controls were easy and comfortable. I wished at one point the handle had tool-free adjustments, but a minute with a hex key before the next session is all that will be needed to dial it in for my preferences. Tool-free adjustments sometimes loosen up over time and can be a hassle to retighten, and so long-term the 4-screw shaft clamp will work just fine.

I liked how easy it was to load the line, and the bump advance is of course a convenience.

Less expensive and lower powered string trimmers are limited to 0.065″ or 0.080″ lines and usually have shorter cutting swaths. The 15″ cutting swath and heavier 0.095″ twisted line was definitely appreciated. I don’t think a lighter duty trimmer could have handled what I pushed this EGO through.

I went through line way too quickly, but that shouldn’t happen in normal use. During less aggressive clearing or trimming projects, the same line should last a lot longer.

As of now, I’m pretty sold on this EGO cordless string trimmer. It handled everything I threw at it yesterday, and if it can handle itself the same way as I work to clear the rest of the overgrown area, I don’t see any way things could be better.

Price: $169 for the bare tool (ST1520S), $229 for the 2.5Ah kit (ST1521S), $216 for the straight shaft bare tool (ST1520)

Buy the Bare Tool via Home Depot
Buy the 2.5Ah Kit via Home Depot
Buy the Straight Shaft via Home Depot

Next time I’ll try for “before and after” photos. When I started the cleanup process yesterday, I wasn’t convinced that the trimmer would actually be suitable. I thought I’d have to give up on the overgrowth cleanup and then do some regular maintenance-style trimming tasks for testing purposes. But the trimmer was making good progress, and before I knew it I had reduced the overgrowth to winter ground cover.

Thank you to EGO for providing the review sample.

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Makita USA issued a new press release, announcing that their new XGT cordless power tools will come to the USA, and also clarifying that the new system will be positioned alongside their growing 18V LXT system.

Here’s the headline: Makita Offers Vision of Cordless Future with Expanded LXT and New XGT.

Read More About the New Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Tools

Makita says that the new XGT cordless power tools will be a standalone 40V Max system, and will be positioned alongside the current 18V LXT cordless power tool system.

XGT is engineered for select higher-demand applications as the industry pushes the transition to battery power. Although the 40V max XGT batteries look similar in size to 18V LXT batteries, XGT is a new system with its own tools, equipment, batteries, and chargers. XGT will launch first in Japan and will be available in the United States in late 2020.

This excerpt is the most notable part of the press release, with emphasis added.

Makita XGT will be its own system, with its own tools, equipment, batteries, and chargers. The press release does not mention any cross-platform adapters or cross-platform compatibility, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not possible or planned.

The new Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tools won’t be available in the United States until late 2020. Unfortunately, the long wait also means that we’re unlikely to be able to receive or ask for any additional information or details for quite some time.

Makita USA also comments about further expansion of their LXT (18V) cordless power tool system (with emphasis added):

Makita will continue to invest heavily in LXT, and there is a tremendous roadmap of new LXT products in the pipeline for trade users in all segments.

Makita also says that the number of 18V LXT products will increase from 225 to over 250 products in 2020.

We’re still left with very many questions about the new Makita XGT cordless power tool platform, but this new announcement at least answers two very important questions.

To sum it up:

Will Makita’s new 40V Max XGT cordless power tool system replace their 18V LXT system? NO, Makita says that the two systems will be positioned alongside each other.

When will Makita XGT cordless power tools launch in the USA? Late 2020.

If you haven’t yet read our coverage on the new tools and tech: Meet the new Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system.

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We recently posted about the new Makita XGT cordless power tool system, and have also learned that it will launch in the USA alongside Makita’s 18V LXT cordless system in late 2020.

Makita USA hasn’t said anything about cross-platform compatibility (or incompatibility) between the new 40V Max XGT tools, batteries, and chargers, and their 18V system.

However, Makita Australia provided a graphic that shows there will be a charging adapter, ADP10, which will allow for Makita 18V LXT batteries to be charged on the new XGT 40V Max charger.

The introduction of a charging adaptor has enabled consumers to charge both LXT and XGT batteries when using the XGT charger.

The Makita Australia press release uses similar language regarding how the XGT system will launch alongside the current 18V LXT system:

We are excited to announcement the launch of our new XGT 40V battery system that will coexist with LXT and continue towards our vision of a battery solution for all applications!

The keyword here is coexist.

Makita Australia includes much greater context behind the new XGT platform, with more information and details than Makita USA’s short press release. They describe how XGT is a genuine solution for high demand Industrial applications, and that it is future proof thanks to the charging adapter.

Makita will continue to develop and release new LXT tools for professional trade applications and the introduction of 40V Max will provide consumers with a genuine solution for high demand Industrial applications.

Makita again emphasizes that the XGT cordless power tools will not replace or stifle their current 18V system. It’ll be interesting to see if the situation changes in the next 5 years, but I don’t think it will. Makita makes some fine 18V-class cordless power tools, including their sub-compact line.

We might eventually see compact or sub-compact 40V Max cordless power tools, given the physical similarities between 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT Li-ion batteries, but there’s not much to start making predictions on.

Makita Australia says that the XGT cordless power tool system will feature Smart Technology.

The XGT range of tools and batteries come with a built-in program, providing digital communication between the battery and tool. Allowing not only for the battery to talk with tool but also the tool to talk to the battery. This Provides Makita XGT a foundation to adapt to even higher technology advances in the future.

The incorporation of tool design, higher output batteries and built in communication program makes XGT the best high demand system on the market, reinforcing the leadership role Makita has when it comes to innovation and technology. Makita XGT is a genuine LONG-TERM SOLUTION!

I don’t quit see what Makita has done to make “XGT the best high demand system on the market.” Are they planning for a tool customization or “communication system” similar to what Milwaukee (One-Key), Dewalt (Tool Connect), and Bosch (Bluetooth-Connected) have all already developed?

Makita Australia also compares their new XGT 40V Max brushless drill and impact wrench to leading 18V LXT models, nothing that the XGT versions are more compact. Spec-wise, the drill and impact wrench are also quite a bit more powerful.

The bases of the new 40V Max cordless drills and impacts look a little bulkier than 18V equivalents. Perhaps this is where the new communication technologies will be housed.

Makita mentions other advantages of their new XGT 40V Max cordless power tools over 18V LXT equivalents. The new Makita XGT reciprocating saw, for instance, is said to be 70% faster than their 18V X2 reciprocating saw. Compared to their 18V brushless angle grinder, the new 40V Max XGT grinders are said to be 40% faster.

It’s worth noting that there appears to be two different XGT cordless circular saws. Makita Japan’s teaser video and Makita Australia’s press release show two very different models.

Makita Australia indicates that there will be two XGT cordless power tool combo kits, at least when the system launches – a 6pc combo kit and a 2pc drill and impact driver combo kit, with both including the 40V Max to 18V LXT charger adapter.

To support their claims of continued 18V LXT investment and a “tremendous roadmap” of new LXT products, Makita Australia showed off some new additions, including a hybrid-powered LED wobble light, rivet guns, and a battery-charging Bluetooth jobsite radio.

Will the new charging adapter really help users who have already bought into Makita’s 18V LXT system? If you’re a Makita 18V cordless power tool user, you already have an 18V charger. If you buy into the XGT 40V Max cordless system, you’ll need the 40V Max charger and the adapter.

It’s good to have options but will using the adapter for charging 18V batteries really be easier than simply using the 18V charger Makita users already have?

Side note – Makita says that the XGT charging system will charge batteries in as little as 28 minutes.

Now for a confusing part:

Makita Australia says: One System. Endless Possibilities.

One system? But everything Makita has been saying is about how XGT 40V Max and LXT 18V will be two separate systems. Having a one-way charging adapter doesn’t make them one system.

And what about Makita 18V X2? They don’t address this at all, except for the comparative mention of how the new XGT reciprocating saw is faster.

If I had to guess, I would think that we might eventually see an 18V 2-port battery adapter that allows 18V batteries to power 40V Max XGT cordless power tools. However, with the 40V Max system being built from the ground up, the technology might not allow for that. Makita talks about how the XGT batteries will talk with XGT tools, and also how the XGT tools will talk to XGT batteries. And also – “This Provides Makita XGT a foundation to adapt to even higher technology advances in the future.” That might not allow for such an 18V 2-port to XGT adapter.

With talk about “Smart Technology,” Makita isn’t showing all their cards just yet.

Here’s a closeup product image that shows the base of an XGT cordless drill and XGT battery. I wonder what that thumbwheel switch is for…

We still have a lot of questions, but hopefully we’ll learn more about the new Makita XGT cordless tool system well before their “late 2020” USA launch.

Read More: Continued Makita XGT Cordless Power Tool News

Updates

On social media, someone asked Makita when there will be 18V LXT batteries with higher capacities and next-gen Li-ion cells (21700).

Makita USA replied:

A higher amp-hour 18V battery will not get to the next level of cordless solutions for higher demand applications.

Does this mean Makita won’t come out with 18V compact 4.0Ah or 8.0Ah LXT battery packs?

Related Posts:

USB Charging Adapter or Power Bank? Meet the New Makita XGT 40V Cordless Power Tool System What Could Makita XGT Be – New Cordless Power Tools? Next-Gen Batteries?

We’ve written quite a but about the new Makita XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system so far, but the story is far from complete. Makita USA has not provided a lot of information or details, and so we’ve been trying to piece things together from some of the other international announcements.

At this time, we’ve seen images of two different Makita XGT brushless circular saws, include the 6-1/2″ saw shown above. Officially described as a 165mm circular saw (which converts to ~6-1/2″), doesn’t this circular saw resemble Makita’s 18V sub-compact model?

There are many differences in the saws’ features, such as the absence of an auxiliary handle, added digital controls, and some structural changes. But the two saws’ general form factors and sizes look to be quite similar, don’t they?

It seems atypical for Makita to introduce a 6-1/2″ circular saw as part of their new high performance 40V Max system. Atypical, but not unwelcome.

I say it’s atypical because other brands’ most premium and highest-powered circular saws, such as Milwaukee M18 Fuel with High Output batteries and Dewalt FlexVolt, have 7-1/4″ blade sizes. From product images, Makita does also have a 7-1/4″ brushless circular saw coming to their XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system.d

Cordless 6-1/2″ circular saws are lighter and more compact than 7-1/4″ circular saws, but they’re not quite what you think of in the context of “next-gen high-performance cordless jobsite.” Still, having the option for a smaller and lighter circular saw is always a good thing.

And look, the new Makita XGT 6-1/2″ circular saw will also be available in both teal and black color schemes. As you might know, Makita’s sub-compact 18V cordless power tools are available in black.

This looks to be the most compact 36V/40V Max circular saw on the market. Is it the only 36V/40V Max 6-1/2″ brushless circular saw available?

The absence of an auxiliary handle looks to make the XGT 6-1/2″ circular saw look even more compact than Makita’s 18V sub-compact offering, at least from the product images.

Interesting?

Read More: Continued Makita XGT Cordless Power Tool News

Shall we continue on our efforts to explore and hopefully understand what Makita will be doing with their XGT 40V Max cordless power tool system? I feel that little details like this could potentially provide greater context for the new lineup.

Related Posts:

New Makita XSH04ZB Sub-Compact Brushless Circular Saw New Makita Sub-Compact Circular Saw (XSH05ZB) is “AWS-Capable” First Look: Dewalt Atomic Cordless Circular Saw

Milwaukee has officially announced their new M18 Fuel 12″ sliding miter saw, which they say generates the power of a 15A corded 12″ miter saw while being 15% lighter.

The new Milwaukee cordless miter saw is said to have the same cutting capacity as leading 12″ corded miter saws. It also features One-Key connectivity for tracking, inventory management, and securing against unauthorized use.

The new Milwaukee brushless miter saw can deliver up to 330 cuts per charge in 3-1/4″ base board. It can handle horizontal cutting of boards up to 2×14″, vertical cutting of up to 6-3/4″ trim, and nested crown molding up to 7-1/2″.

The new Milwaukee miter saw features a dual bevel design, adjustable stainless steel detent plate, and of course their Shadow Cut Line indicator which shines a light across the blade to produce a kerf-accurate cut line.

The new saw is ideally paired with the Milwaukee M18 12.0Ah HD battery, which is said to provide 50% more power and 33% longer runtime than their 9.0Ah HD battery, and while also running 50% cooler.

• Blade size: 12″
• Speed (no-load): 3,500 RPM
• Blade arbor size: 1″
• Dual Bevel
• Weighs 50.8 lbs with battery, 47.6 lbs without
• Vertical capacity (base against fence): 6-3/4″
• Vertical capacity (nested crown): 7-1/2″
• 90° cross cut capacity: 2×14″
• 90° cross cut capacity (max width): 14″
• 45° bevel capacity: 2×14″
• 45° miter cut capacity (max height): 4″
• 45° miter cut capacity (max width): 8″
• Bevel angle range (L/R): 48°/48°
• Miter angle range (L/R): 50°/60°

Price: $699 for the bare tool (2739-20), $849 for the kit (2739-21HD)
ETA: November 2019

Buy the Kit via Acme Tools
Buy the Kit via Tool Nut

The kit comes with an HD12.0 battery and multi-voltage Rapid Charger. A dust bag, clamp, and starter blade are also included with the kit and bare tool.

Buy the Bare Tool via Tool Nut
Buy the Bare Tool via Acme Tools

Discussion

We saw the new Milwaukee M18 Fuel 12″ sliding miter saw in action at their NPS19 new tool media event, and it cut smoothly.

I don’t think there’s much more to add. Milwaukee rounds out their cordless miter saw lineup with a new higher-powered 12″ sliding miter saw, and it’s ideally equipped with their HD12.0 battery. It’s a cordless 12″ sliding miter saw – one of very few on the market – and is said to have the power and capacity of a corded saw while being lighter.

I think it’s worth noting that the design much more resembles that of their 7-1/4″ sliding miter saw than their first 10″ miter saw.

Here’s a quick intro and demo video from NPS19:

Related Posts:

Kobalt 24V Max Cordless Miter Saw Ridgid 18V 2-Battery Brushless 10″ Sliding Miter Saw? Nope – AEG, But Still Interesting Dewalt FlexVolt 10″ and 8.5″ FlexVolt Sliding Miter Saws (Outside USA)

Shown here is the new DOER cordless power tool system, described as the most compact tool shed you’ve ever seen.

Does it look familiar? The POWER8 compact cordless power tool kit first came out a full 10 years ago in 2009. Back in 2011 there were talks of a Li-ion upgrade, and I guess that’s now where DOER comes in.

DOER is launching with a Kickstarter campaign, where it has already earned more than $500,000 in backers’ pledges.

The DOER table/base unit doesn’t look much different compared to the POWER8. Their Kickstarter FAQ describes some of the engineering differences between the two systems, such as increased battery capacity, an AC/DC hybrid power source, and slight feature and spec updates to many of the individual tools.

What You Get for $499:

• Hammer drill/driver
• Drill press
• Jig saw
• Scroll saw
• Circular saw
• Table saw
• Hot wire cutter
• Table hot wire cutter
• Table sander
• Mini lathe
• Worklight
• Lantern
• Miter gauge
• Table unit has a telescoping handle and built-in wheels
• 2.0Ah battery
• Tool bag

A 4.0Ah battery, additional UniGrip power handles, and AC/DC power adapter are available at higher pledge amounts. There are basic, basic plus, standard, standard plus, and ultimate pledge/reward levels.

DOER Cordless Power Tool System Benefits

• Portable
• Space-saving
• Works on AC or DC power
• Durable
• Safe
• High-end
• All-in-one
• Cost effective
• Easy to use

This is straight from the kickstarter campaign. They don’t elaborate what makes the DOER “safe” or “high-end.”

Thank you to everyone who wrote in about this!

More Info via Kickstarter

They say it’s more compact than your dad’s tool shed! But are there even any cordless power tools in the “your dad’s tool shed” photo? All I see are a bunch of supplies and poorly organized wrenches.

Promo Video:

Discussion

We’ve seen modular cordless power tools before, such as from Ridgid (JobMax), Black & Decker (Matrix), and Craftsman (Bolt-On, made by Black & Decker).

If you ask me, there are much better ways for DIYers or homeowners to spend $500 to $700.

Some of the “12-in-1” functions seem interesting.

Although the relationship between Power8 and DOER and its new company (Stellen) is addressed in the Kickstarter FAQ, I still don’t quite follow what happened.

We create the brand DOER. Unlike Power8, the brand goes without numerical functions for future expansion. DOER Basic kit includes 12 functions, and we will expand the DOER product lines to more handheld powertools in future. With such an ambitious plan, we need your support!

Some of the tools and functions seem convenient, such as the ability to turn the cordless drill into a mini drill press, the circular saw into a mini table saw, and the jig saw into a mini scroll saw. Use a sanding pad adapter, and the drill can be used as a benchtop sander.

But, realistically, how good do these tools work? For instance, what can you cut on a table saw so small?

Chris Elsworthy, inventor of the Power8 workshop product, doesn’t seem to be affiliated with Stellen or the DOER cordless power tool system at all. Why? Also, looking at Elsworthy’s twitter feed, a Li-ion version of the Power8, called the Power8 Pro, was still on the market early this year. Here’s the Amazon UK listing.

If the Power8 wasn’t compelling enough for continued development, what’s the guarantee that new tools or accessories will come to the DOER?

On the Kickstarter page, they say that the basic kit has an early bird price of $499, a (presumably) regular pledge price of $539, and an eventual retail price of $799. They say that the Standard Plus kit, with an extra UniGrip handle, 4.0Ah battery, and AC/DC adapter will retail for $939.

I mentioned that I feel DIYers and homeowners can do better for $500 to $700. If you’re talking about $800 to $900+, you could do a lot better.

I just don’t see how this would be better than a traditional cordless power tool combo kit. The DOER seems interesting in theory, but in practice there might be headache-causing limitations.

Related Posts:

New Sears Craftsman 20V Max Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit Coming Soon: New Milwaukee M18 CP3.0Ah and XC8.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Batteries More Details About Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tool System, and an 18V LXT Charging Adapter

Over at Home Depot, they have a select of Dewalt cordless power tools on sale, today only, 10/13/19. There are a couple of other deals as well, on select Dewalt air compressors.

Some of the deals look to have really good pricing, depending on what kinds of Dewalt cordless power tools are on your shopping list.

The Dewalt table saw and rolling saw stand, discussed halfway down the page, is a particularly good deal.

• Dewalt 20V Max cordless circular saw with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $119
• Dewalt 20V Max brushless sander with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $119
• Dewalt 20V Max reciprocating saw with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $119
• Dewalt 20V Max compact brushless reciprocating saw with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $149
• Dewalt 20V Max 4-1/2″ grinder with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $119

It’s worth nothing that the bonus battery is a compact 3.0Ah battery.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/14/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Dewalt 20V Max brushless 7-1/4″ circular saw with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $149
• Dewalt 20V Max brushless angle grinder with bonus 3.0Ah battery and charger: $149
• Dewalt 40V Max chainsaw with 7.5Ah battery kit: $249
• Dewalt 80 gallon stationary air compressor: $1400

Note: Dewalt’s 40V Max cordless outdoor power tools have all been discontinued.

• Dewalt 6 gallon pancake air compressor and brad nailer starter kit: $199
• Dewalt 40V Max cordless chainsaw with 4.0Ah battery kit: $199
• Dewalt 40V Max pole hedge trimmer bare tool: $199
• Dewalt compact table saw DWE7480 with bonus rolling table saw stand: $349

Over at Amazon, the saw by itself is currently priced at $369. The stand is priced at $164 separately. Home Depot has the pricing at $399 for the saw, and $170 for the rolling stand. $349 for both is a really good deal. There will be more table saw deals next month for the winter holiday shopping season, but I don’t think you’ll see better pricing on this particular combo.

There was a similar $349 deal on the table saw bundle on Black Friday 2017.

• Dewalt 40V Max cordless lawn mower kit: $319
• Dewalt 40V Max 7.5Ah battery 2-pack: $229
• Dewalt 20V Max grease gun with 5.0Ah battery and charger starter kit: $199
• Dewalt 40V Max cordless chainsaw with 6.0Ah battery kit: $249

Note: Dewalt’s 40V Max cordless outdoor power tools have all been discontinued.

• Dewalt 40V Max battery charger: $45
• Dewalt 20V Max cordless band saw with 5.0Ah battery and charger starter kit: $199
• Dewalt 20V Max framing nailer kit with bonus 4.0Ah battery: $399
• Dewalt 20V Max brushless drain snake with bonus 5.0Ah battery and charger starter kit: $199

• Dewalt 20V Max cordless brad nailer kit with bonus impact driver: $299
• Dewalt 20V Max rotary hammer with bonus 5.0Ah battery and charger starter kit: $299
• Dewalt 60 gallon stationary air compressor: $1159
• Dewalt 1 gallon air compressor with bonus pin nailer and hose: $199

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/14/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

Related Posts:

What Cordless Power Tools Should Dewalt Launch in 2019? New Dewalt 12.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery (FlexVolt/20V Max) 2019 Dewalt Cordless Power Tool Predictions

Dewalt has come out with a new 20V Max cordless power tool battery, a compact 4.0Ah pack.

A couple of years ago, this would have been a big deal. Now? It’s still important to share about, but it’s not quite as significant a development as it would have been.

The latest Dewalt cordless power tool battery (DCB240 here, DCB189 in Europe) is a 5-cell 4.0Ah battery. It’s smaller and lighter than Dewalt’s current 10-cell 4.0Ah battery pack, but should be capable of delivering comparable runtime. Being built with larger form factor Li-ion cells, this battery is a little larger and heavier than lower capacity 1.5Ah and 2.0Ah battery packs.

Next-gen 4.0Ah Li-ion cells are already being used in other high output battery packs, and so it was only a matter of time before we saw Dewalt use them in a compact battery. We weren’t guaranteed to see compact 4.0Ah 20V Max/18V XR batteries, but there was a high likelihood.

Dewalt says that their 3.0Ah battery delivers the same runtime and power as their 10-cell 3.0Ah battery. For this 4.0Ah battery, Dewalt only describes it as having the same capacity as their 10-cell 4.0Ah battery (DCB204). They also confirm it’s the same size and weight as their DCB230 compact 3.0Ah battery.

The battery has a 3-LED charge indicator.

Should you buy one? The answer to this is getting more complicated all the time. Generally, determine which tools you want to use the battery for, and then check on price-per-amp-hour. A battery like this can kind of take the place of lower capacity compact batteries or comparable (and slightly higher capacity) 10-cell battery packs.

More battery choices are good.

There will also be a new 8.0Ah battery, and we’ll talk about that soon. In my opinion, the 8.0Ah 10-cell battery is a bigger development.

Related Posts:

New Dewalt 20V Max 8.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery Coming Soon: New Milwaukee M18 CP3.0Ah and XC8.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Batteries New Dewalt DCB230 20V Max 3Ah Battery Pack

In response to our recent post about the new Dewalt 20V Max compact 4.0Ah cordless power tool battery, Boggsy mentioned wishing it has a USB charging port for both trickle-charging the battery or charging electronic devices.

Why make a new battery without a USB-C out/in… In a pinch, you could trickle charge it with your phone/laptop/tablet charger. Or, plug your dying phone into your impact driver to make a business call. Lol. Technology.

That actually sounds like a good idea, in theory, for power tool batteries to be rechargeable via USB.

In practice, it would be a huge headache for engineers and a costly upgrade for end users.

Black & Decker has made cordless power tool batteries with built-in USB device charging ports before.

And so has Skil – here’s our review of their 12V brushless drill/driver.

One-way charging certainly adds to the price of battery packs. There’s more circuitry required in the battery pack, and the port is one more thing to protect.

USB charging is done at ~5V, and so step-down voltage regulation is required.

As for charging the battery via USB, that’s even trickier.

The battery pack would be larger. Charging times would be longer. Internally, the battery would have greater complexity. The port would have to be protected against the elements and jobsite bumps, tool vibrations, and what-not.

All this would lead to a more expensive battery.

For DIYer cordless power tools? Sure. How many cordless power tools and batteries does the average DIYer have? How many batteries might a pro use? How many pros buy separate batteries compared to how many batteries they get bundled in kits?

Let’s say that Dewalt did decide to come out with a battery pack that could be “trickle charged” via USB and charge electronic devices. I suppose USB could allow for one port to be used for two-way charging, and that likely further increases the complexity.

To be honest, I don’t know, my USB port pack has a micro USB for charging it and a USB A for charging devices. Looking at current-generation portable chargers from leading brands, they still have separate inputs and outputs.

But let’s continue and consider a hypothetical Dewalt cordless power tool battery that can be charged from a standard USB charger.

There are quite a few different “fast charging” standards out there, and so fast charging times would likely require that Dewalt bundle their own charger with the battery. That’s going to add further to the cost.

Let’s say that you use an off-the-shelf USB charger that can deliver a 2.1A charging rate. At 5V that’s what, 10.5 watts? This 20V Max 4.0Ah battery is rated at 80 watt-hours. The charging time would be more than 7-1/2 hours – at the least- which is quite slow.

And remember, you have to step up then 5V to >20V to be able to charge the 20V Max battery. That will usually mean added heat and efficiency losses.

Now, are users going to pay for all this stuff to be incorporated into a single battery pack?

This is Dewalt’s DCB090 USB power source, priced at $40 via Amazon. I have one (a review sample) and like it, but it’ll slowly drain a connected battery even if it’s not being used to charge something. If Dewalt were to come out with a USB charger for their 20V Max cordless power tool batteries, it would be in this type of slide-on accessory.

With such an accessory, you could potentially have an input and an output. Something like this is possible and much more likely than having the tech built right into a new 20V Max battery.

Although it’s pricey, Dewalt does make a 12V DC charger that can be plugged into car’s ports. At the time of this posting, it’s ~$104 via Amazon.

Maybe it’s something Dewalt and other cordless power tool brands have considered. There are economic of practical reasons why such a charging adapter doesn’t exist yet.

Milwaukee has an M12 USB charger and device power port, but I don’t think I’ve seen an M18 version yet.

Hmm, you know what would be nice? Having an adapter for each brand and being able to recharge any brand’s cordless power tool battery via the same USB cable. But for everyday use, standalone chargers will likely continue to be easier, faster, and more functional.

Would you pay more for an 18V or 20V Max cordless power tool battery with built-in USB charging capabilities? What about a two-way USB charging adapter accessory? How much would you be willing to pay for it?

Related Posts:

New Dewalt 12.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery (FlexVolt/20V Max) Why the New Dewalt 20V Max Cordless Power Tool Battery is a Small Deal New Dewalt 20V Max 8.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery

A reader wrote in about a stellar deal on Dewalt 20V Max 5.0Ah cordless power tool batteries, and there are a couple of other Dewalt tool deals of the day joining it. Thank you Jason for the heads-up!

First up, the 2-pack of 5.0Ah batteries is priced at $110, which is very good, both for these batteries and for the charge capacity.

Buy Now: Dewalt 5.0Ah Battery 2-Pack via Amazon

Dewalt’s fan is also on sale, at $79 for the bare tool.

Buy Now: Dewalt 20V Max Fan via Amazon

This Dewalt 20V Max battery starter set and 18V to 20V Max adapter is priced at $99. That’s a good price (for an authorized dealer) even if you only want the two 2.0Ah batteries.

Buy Now: Dewalt 18V to 20V Max Kit via Amazon

This Dewalt 20V Max 9-tool cordless power tool combo kit (DCK940D2) is on sale for $499, which is a recurring seasonal price on this particular combo kit.

One thing to be aware of is that the kit comes with (2) 2.0Ah batteries and zero high capacity packs.

Buy Now: Dewalt 20V Max 9-Tool Combo Kit via Amazon

The venerable Dewalt DW745 table saw is on sale for $249, a very good price for an excellent saw.

There will be no shortage of portable table saw deals next month for Black Friday and over the winter holiday shopping season. But if you just want a capable saw with no stand, this is a hard bargain to beat.

Buy Now: Dewalt DW745 Table Saw via Amazon

See All the Deals

Deals end at 3am ET 10/18/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

Related Posts:

New Dewalt 20V Max 8.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery World’s Second-Ever Cordless Table Saw: Metabo 18V x 2 with 10″ Blade and Built-in Stand Why the New Dewalt 20V Max Cordless Power Tool Battery is a Small Deal

We just received word that Ryobi has come out with a new 18V One+ cordless band saw.

You know that a brand has been listening to user requests when the press release announcement starts off with the wait is over!

The new Ryobi cordless band saw, model P590, is said to be lightweight and portable. It features a 2-1/2″ cut capacity and is designed for cutting wood, metal, and plastic materials.

It features adjustable blade tracking and an LED work light.

• 575 SFPM (surface feet per minute) cutting speed
• 2.5″ cut capacity
• Integrated pommel handle
• 32-7/8″ blade size
• Comes with (2) 18 TPI blades

Price: $129 for the bare tool
ETA: November 2019

Discussion

The new Ryobi band saw seems straightforward – it’s a compact cordless band saw with 2.5″ cutting capacity and what looks to be a standard blade size.

What’s not to like?

Raise your hand if this be on your wishlist.

Before anyone says it, I know what the number one question will be – “when will Ridgid come out with a cordless band saw?” The announcement of this new Ryobi saw should give you some hope that the answer is “soon” rather than “eventually,” although that’s not a guarantee.

Related Posts:

Hitachi 18V Brushless Band Saw New Makita Compact Band Saw with More Durable Blade Housing New Dewalt Brushless Dual Switch Band Saw

We posted about the new Dewalt ToughSystem Music 2.0 cordless Bluetooth jobsite music player back in June when Home Depot first put up a product page.

We’ve asked Dewalt for updates since then, most recently in mid-September, and were told that no information was available yet. Our belief has been that Dewalt was looking to launch the new ToughSystem Music 2.0 entertainment system for the holiday shopping season, similar to what they did with the original.

Chris wrote in today with a tip and question:

Have you heard any news on this new radio?

DeWalt’s site has reviews as well as user review pics. But I can’t find it for sale anywhere.

Fake reviews?

Looking at Dewalt’s product page, the reviews are all marked “incentivized,” but there’s no explanation as to what this means. Were the reviewers given free products to review, similar to what Craftsman has been doing with their new tool launches? Are they being paid? It’s unclear.

The reviewers all have between 1 and 3 reviews under their belt, including the Music 2.0, and many of the ones with 3 reviewers have also reviewed a Dewalt hammer. The reviewers don’t seem to be active Dewalt.com community members or reviewers.

Sometimes very active customer reviewers are selected to receive free products to test and review. But that doesn’t seem to be what’s going on here. So who are these reviewers and how are they being selected?

In other words, I don’t think they’re fake, but they’re not “I went to the store and bought this product” types of reviewers. This has been the norm for Amazon and some consumer brands to do, but I haven’t seen Dewalt do it before.

It seems strange, for a brand like Dewalt to send free products to consumers, especially of a tool Dewalt hasn’t officially launched. No press release, no official announcement, just some early incentivized consumer reviewers.

Yep, this is definitely bound to be a holiday season launch. Strange things tend to happen with holiday promos and such.

Why do brands do this? I wish I could tell you. We have been receiving a lot of “are these fake reviews?” inquiries recently, and while I don’t think they’re fake, I don’t know how to describe them. Are you more likely to buy a product if you Google it and see there are 8, 10, 20 “user” reviews on retailer or brand websites, or zero?

Retailers such as Home Depot also aggregate reviews, and so you’ll likely see these same reviewers on Home Depot’s product page when their selling page pops back up.

Anyway, here are some official features and specs:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• Works with Dewalt 20V Max, 12V Max, FlexVolt batteries
• 55W RMS amp
• 4 full range speakers
• 1 active and 1 assisted bass resonator
• USB charger w/ 2.1A output
• Aux input port
• Color LCD display
• Touch screen capability (one reviewer contradicts this, says it’s not a touch screen)
• IP54 rating
• Mobile device compartment
• ToughSystem tool box compatible
• App-based remote control
• Weighs 15.2 lbs

Price: $229 (according to Home Depot’s initial offering)

Coming Soon(via Home Depot) – Page is down as of the time of this posting
Compare(Original via Amazon)
Compare(Original via Acme Tools)
Compare(Tstak Radio via Acme Tools)

Discussion

If I had to guess, it would be that each Home Depot store will get a couple of units, similar to when the first Dewalt ToughSystem Music player launched there a few years ago.

Price-wise, $229 will probably be the list price, and the “sale” price will likely be $199.

I could pretend to understand why Dewalt has been sending out free or otherwise “incentivized” review samples to users with 0 to 2 reviews under their belt.

I could almost understand why they wouldn’t issue a press release for a highly anticipated product. Maybe they will, but as soon as that happens, scores of reviewers, magazines, influencers, YouTubers, social media personalities, self-proclaimed professional tool reviewers, self-proclaimed influencers, and others will all bombard Dewalt with requests for review samples.

If Dewalt and Home Depot are partnering on a holiday season launch, the priority will be to stock all those in-store quarter-pallet displays. After that, warehouses and other online stores will want a healthy inventory.

Maybe Dewalt doesn’t want the new ToughSystem Music 2.0 to cannibalize sales of the original model, Tstak model, or Craftsman Tstak music player until it launches?

I’m trying to explain why we don’t have any more information than what is now up on Dewalt’s website.

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Over at Lowe’s, they came out with a new Craftsman homeowner tool set, model CMCLWSKITQ419.

The “V20 Holiday Tool Set” is said to include “a variety of products to help you get the job done.”

The set comes with:

• Craftsman V20 cordless drill/driver kit
• Craftsman 19pc screwdriver bit set
• Craftsman 14pc drill bit set,
• Craftsman 25′ tape measure
• Craftsman folding utility knife
• Craftsman 6pc mini pliers and cutters set with case
• Craftsman 9″ torpedo level
• Craftsman 20oz hammer

Price: $199 – the set will DEFINITELY be reduced for the holidays

Buy Now via Lowes

Discussion

Okay, so as far as “household tool sets” go, how’d you rate this one?

If you ask me, it has a decent selection of must-have tools. Add in a multi-bit screwdriver, a mini bit screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and maybe a 2pc pliers set, and you’ve got a great start.

Price-wise, $199 isn’t good, I know I can build a better selection of tools for less. But, let’s wait and see what the holiday season or Black Friday price will be. With a $199 starting point, maybe it’ll be on sale for $149?

On a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being “you’ve given me nothing!” and 5 being “a perfect start for the absolute beginner,” I’d rank this a solid 3.5. It packs in some must-haves, and gives you the freedom to pick your own screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and full-size pliers.

It doesn’t look to come with a tool box though. That’s a small bummer. Budget in some money for a VersaStack, tool box.

So, your thoughts on this “household tool set?”

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Over at Home Depot, it’s like they decided to kick off the holiday season deals a couple of weeks early. There are some very good-looking cordless power tool deals of the day, featuring Makita, Milwaukee, and Ryobi brands.

• Milwaukee M12 sub-compact cordless band saw with bonus 2.0Ah battery: $124
• Makita 18V 1/2″ impact wrench with 5.0Ah battery: $239
• Makita 18V compact 1/2″ impact wrench with impact socket set: $189
• Makita 18V 1/2″ impact wrench with impact socket set: $259

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Makita 18V brushless high torque 1/2″ impact wrench kit with impact socket set: $469
• Milwaukee M18 Fuel One-Key cordless table saw: $444
• Milwauee M18 6-tool cordless power tool combo kit with 5.0Ah battery: $409
• Ryobi 18V 5-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $149

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Ryobi 18V 4-tool brushless cordless power tool combo kit: $199
• Milwaukee M12 stapler with free 2.0Ah battery: $84
• Milwaukee M12 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit with free stapler: $199
• Milwaukee M12 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit with free 3/8″ impact wrench: $199

These are some compelling M12 cordless tool deals. If you’ve been meaning to pick up the stapler, this might be a good time. This beats the price from earlier this month by $5. If you got in on that deal, you could try to request a price adjustment, or maybe a return-rebuy.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Milwaukee M12 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit with free right angle impact driver: $199
• Milwaukee M12 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit with free soldering iron
• Milwaukee M18 brushless compact drill and impact driver kit with free 5.0Ah battery: $199
• Makita 18V 4-tool cordless power tool combo kit with free 5.0Ah battery 2-pack: $349

With the Milwaukee M18 compact brushless bundle, last year they had the same tools and kit for the same price but bundled with a Packout tool box. They might have a holiday bundle like that again this year, but you’ll have to decide if you want a Packout tool box or a 5.0Ah battery as the bonus. OR, they should have the individual tool kits bundled with 1 battery each for $99, if you don’t need or want both tools.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Makita 18V 4-tool brushless cordless power tool combo kit with 2 free 5.0Ah batteries: $449
• Milwaukee M18 Fuel 4-1/2″ brushless angle grinder with free 5.0Ah battery: $154
• Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2″ ratchet with free 2.0Ah battery: $164
• Milwaukee M12 Fuel 3/8″ ratchet with free 2.0Ah battery: $139

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Ryobi 18V 9.0Ah battery and charger starter kit: $129
• Ryobu m19V hot glue gun, router, 1/4 sheet sander: $69
• Makita 18V 3-tool compact cordless power tool combo kit: $119
• Makita 18V compact brushless drill/driver kit: $119

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Makita 18V 6-tool cordless power tool combo kit: $449

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

The following are additional deals of the day at Home Depot today.

• Milwaukee 24″ concrete screed level with 30′ tape measure: $74
• Milwaukee 25′ STUD tape measure 2-pack: $25
• Milwaukee Hardline EDC folding knives: $39 each for 2.5″ and 3″ sizes, $49 for 3.5″ size
• Ridgid 16 gallon wet/dry vacuum: $134
• Ridgid air mover blower fan: $154

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

• Ridgid 18V cordless hybrid-powered panel light with stand, battery, charger: $129
• Milwaukee M12 Rover LED worklight with free 2.0Ah battery: $69
• Milwaukee M18 Rover LED worklight with free 5.0Ah battery: $129
• SOLD OUT: Milwaukee 48″ concrete screed level with 30′ tape and Inkzall markers: $109
• SOLD OUT: Milwaukee electricians work belt with 25′ STUD tape measure: $75

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

A selection of portable car lifts and Husky low profile floor jacks are also on sale.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Deals end at 3am ET 10/26/19 unless supplies sell out sooner.

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I’ve got good news and bad news – Dewalt’s new Atomic-series 20V Max compact cordless DCS369B reciprocating saw is now available, but in very limited supplies.

I snagged one at my local Home Depot, where it was unfortunately not eligible for any current promos. Buy any of the other Atomic-series cordless power tools, and you get a free 2.0Ah battery.

What’s so special about the Dewalt Atomic brushless reciprocating saw? Well, this is Dewalt’s first one-handed 20V Max model.

Dewalt has a compact 12V Max compact reciprocating saw, with pivoting handle, but there’s nothing like that in the 20V Max lineup.

Dewalt does also have a compact brushless 20V Max reciprocating saw, but it also requires a two-handed grip.

The new Dewalt Atomic reciprocating saw fits in with the character and branding of the Atomic-series, if that makes sense. It’s the kind of tool I would expect to be part of the “Atomic” lineup.

The Dewalt Atomic cordless reciprocating saw features a quick-change chuck, variable speed trigger, pivoting shoe, and brushless motor.

There’s also an LED worklight.

I couldn’t resist the impulse to get one in my hands ASAP, and picked one up for testing and review. I also picked up a couple of fresh packs of Diablo reciprocating saw blades.

I have small 4″ blades around here somewhere, but figured that 6″ blades would work well on a tool this size. If this was a smaller 12V-class tool, I’d dig out those 4″ blades.

Initial testing will likely involve some branch pruning, some light cutting of construction lumber, plastic pipes, and maybe also copper tubing. A compact recip saw like this is best suited for lighter cutting tasks.

I really like Milwaukee’s Hackzall cordless reciprocating saws, for their compactness, light weight, and reasonable performance. It’ll be curious to see if and how Dewalt’s Atomic-series one-handed cordless reciprocating saw will compare.

While larger saws can handle light work too, they can be fatiguing especially when used overhead, or cumbersome in tighter spaces.

Price: $129 for the bare tool (DCS369B)

Buy Now via Home Depot

Home Depot’s website is reporting that the saw is pretty much out of stock everywhere, and I’m also seeing a $149 price. I paid $129.

I found mine on top of a tool box display near the PRO desk.

If this is something you want to get your hands on ASAP, happy hunting. If you can wait, I’m sure availability will improve soon.

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