Depot’s pro merchant picks his favorite saws and blades

The last few years have been particularly exciting. It’s almost like the world of consumer electronics. Every time you turn around someone is introducing the “next big thing.”

We could spend days talking about cutting trends and all the cool new products out there. Instead, let me tell you about a few of my recent favorites.

Corded power in cordless tools

We’ve all watched the rise in battery-powered tools – many of us wondering if anyone would ever provide the power and runtime required for larger tools on the jobsite. In the last couple of months, we’ve seen exactly that – highlighted by big-name launches of powerful batteries and advanced saws.

Milwaukee recently launched a 9.0 amp-hour (Ah) battery that powers, for example, its brand new miter saw – providing corded power in a cordless saw. With 4,000 rpm, you’ll get smooth, fast cuts. And with a 9.0Ah battery, the saw will make more than 400 cuts of 3¼-inch pine baseboard, 300 cuts of 2×4, or 150 cuts of 2×12 on a single charge.

Next to market was DeWalt’s new 12-inch compound miter saw as part of an entire line of tools compatible with the new FlexVolt battery platform. The FlexVolt battery automatically toggles between 20- and 60-volts depending on what tool it’s powering. In the case of the new miter saw, users drop in two 60-volt batteries for a whopping 120 volts of cutting power capable of delivering up to 289 cross cuts in 3¼-inch base molding without having to find an outlet or use extension cords.

Other brands are focused on building more-efficient tools with existing batteries and platforms. RIDGID recently introduced the first-ever 18-volt 7¼-inch sliding compound miter saw. It has a dual-bevel design and brushless motor, and weighs in at only 24 pounds.

Best blades in the business

Despite all the brands out there making blades, Diablo is one brand whose blades stay near or atop most rankings and lists. Of course, lots of brands make high-quality blades and cutting accessories, but you can’t go wrong with Diablo. Two of their latest products demonstrate why.

First up is the new carbide-tipped reciprocating saw blade for wood. Its optimized tooth geometry makes for faster cuts and more durability. It also has a unique plunge-tip design and a 1-inch oversized body for straighter cuts and less vibration.

A second example from Diablo is the carbide-tipped hole saw with SnapLock Plus Mandrel System. These are the industry’s first carbide-tipped hole saws to cut wood and metal. And this new system and mandrel design simplifies the attachment process for fast and efficient hole saw mounting.

The right tool for the job

For certain jobs, you need a specialized tool to get it done right. And with the heightened focus on dust control throughout the industry, two of my favorite specialty saws do a great job of minimizing dust without diminishing quality or power.

From RotoZip, we have the RotoSaw Spiral Saw Kit with Dust Vault. This patented technology captures 90 percent of drywall dust, making for easier cleanup and keeping users safer.

Skilsaw has rolled out a saw specifically designed for cutting fiber cement. It’s a 7¼-inch Sidewinder that comes with a unique dust-extraction system, protecting users while keeping more dust off the motor to give the tool longer life.

More worm drive, please

No list of cutting innovations would be complete without the world’s first worm drive table saw. Skilsaw’s worm drive system needs no introduction, and now it’s available in a 10-inch portable table saw that comes with a 25-inch rip capacity and 3½-inch cut depth. And of course, it comes with the Dual-Field motor designed to help it stay cooler and run longer.

Now, users can experience One-Key functionality in a Sawzall.

The tech side of tools

Milwaukee introduced One-Key about a year ago, unlocking the digital jobsite with unprecedented technology built into its already best-in-class driving tools. Now, users can experience One-Key functionality in a Sawzall. One of the coolest things about this new tool is the automatic cut break. It can be set to shut off automatically once the blade gets through the material.

These examples are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to innovations in cutting. When you read this, there will probably be at least 10 more game-changing products out there to help you get the job done better, faster and more safely.

−By Travis Tindle, Director, Pro Merchandising, The Home Depot

In his current role, Travis and his team work to constantly find better ways to meet the merchandise needs of Pro customers. This includes identifying new and innovative products, driving overall value, creating exciting events and promotions and associate communication/training. Travis joined The Home Depot in 2005, previously holding roles as store manager, senior manager internal audit and regional director merchandise execution.

The post Depot’s pro merchant picks his favorite saws and blades appeared first on Pro Construction Guide.