One of the biggest announcements at the media event was the 60V …
One of the biggest announcements at the media event was the 60V MAX 7-1/4” Framing Saw (DCS577). It's a rear handle, left-blade saw that looks and acts like a worm drive. I made a few cuts with it and was impressed by its balance, weight, and power. It has a rushless motor, electric brake, a 53° bevel capacity with stops at 45° and 22.5°, a magnesium shoe, a 2-7/16” depth of cut at 90°, and a rafter hook. It'll be available in two kits: the DCS577X1 with (1) DCB609 9Ah Battery and (1) DCB118 Charger for $399 MSRP; the DCS577T1 with (1) DCB606 6Ah Battery and (1) DCB118 Charger for $369 MSRP. It'll also be available as a bare tool (DCS577B) for $259. It'll be available this fall.
DeWalt Industrial Tool Co
There was a 2x20V MAX Brushless Mower rolloing around at the eve…
There was a 2x20V MAX Brushless Mower rolloing around at the event, but by the time my group got to the station where it was it had disappeared. But this image was included in the press kit we were given. The mower runs on two 20V Max batteries, has a 20” metal deck, a folding handle for upright storage, carrying handles. You can use it in either mulch, bag, or discharge grass clippings. This will be available in early 2018. It will come kitted with two DEWALT 20V MAX* 5.0Ah Lithium Ion Batteries (DCB205) and will be available for $399 (DCMW220P2).
DeWalt Industrial Tool Co
This is the Tool Connect "Connector" (model DCE040). T…
This is the Tool Connect "Connector" (model DCE040). The Connector attaches to 20V Max tools that don't already have Tool Connect capabilities. The device locks onto the tool once it's installed and can't be removed. It has an internal rechargeable coin cell battery that is recharged by the attached 20V Max battery running the tool. The unit allows you to track and manage the tool via DeWalt's Tool Connect app. You can disable the tool from the app, see its last location, and, if it's stolen, potentially locate it if/ when it comes within 100 ft. of other Tool Connect apps. The Connectors are expected to be available this summer and have an MSRP of $39.
DeWalt Industrial Tool Co
The DeWalt Tool Connect Tag has similar features to the Tool Con…
The DeWalt Tool Connect Tag has similar features to the Tool Connect Connector, except that it's meant to be attached inconspicuously to larger tools and jobsite equipment. The Tag will come in multiple configurations: Single Tag (DCE041): $29; 4-Pack (DCE041-4): $79; 10-Pack (DCE041-10): $250; 25 Pack (DCE041-25): $500
DeWalt Industrial Tool Co
Last year DeWalt came out with a rack system for its ToughSystem…
Last year DeWalt came out with a rack system for its ToughSystem storage cases that is designed specifically for shops. The company was quick to stress that the versions they were releasing then weren't crash-tested, and therefore were not meant to be added to a van or trailer – promising that a road-approved version would be coming soon. In keeping their promise, the company revealed the ToughSystem Van Racking Solution which is expected to be available in September 2017. It'll come in two sizes: one for standard-sized van (model DWST8240) for vehicles up to 62 7/8” high and another for tall work vans (model DWST8241) for vehicles up to 82” high. Presumably you can put these in a trailer, as well, if you wanted to. The Van Racking System is compatible with ToughSystem units: the ToughSystem® Tote (DWST08205), ToughSystem® DS130 (DWST8130), ToughSystem® DS150 Small Case (DWST08201), ToughSystem® DS300 Large Case (DWST08203), ToughSystem® DS400 XL Case (DWST08204) and the ToughSystem® DS450 Mobile Storage module (DWST08250) (which is also new). A downloadable step-by-step installation video will be available. You'll also be able to design the modular system that you want right on DeWalt's site, allowing you to pick and choose cases and set them on a virtual rack to see how the system will work for you. The smaller rack will cost $199 and the larger will be $299.
DeWalt Industrial Tool Co
This is the DeWalt Carbon Fiber Composite Squeeze Tacker (model …
This is the DeWalt Carbon Fiber Composite Squeeze Tacker (model DWHT80276). It's a 2-in-1 tacker that's 50% lighter than the Arrow T50 stapler (seriously – it's incredibly lightweight). It shoots brads and staples and has a reversible belt hook. It'll be available this month. MSRP: $34.97
DeWalt hosted its annual media event in mid August. Last year’s event was in Baltimore, where the company is based. This year’s event was in Nashville. While last year’s kickoff was all about big power, this year’s was all about the tool brand’s durabilty. Their hashtag for the event was #toughinthesouth. More than 100 members of the media and “influencers” (social media users with a significant number of followers) got a first look at the latest innovations and new tools. There were at least a couple dozen new products, all of which I’ll share over the course of the next couple of weeks. For now, here’s a sampling of six.
Before joining Tools of the Trade as an editor, Chris Ermides was a project manager for a custom home builder, a carpenter and remodeler. These days when he’s not writing or editing, he’s testing tools as he renovates his 1850 farmhouse in upstate New York.
