Section

Tools & Equipment

Reviews, comparisons, and news about the latest tools and equipment for trades and DIY.

Comparison of buying a new tool versus easily renting one from a Lowe's self-service kiosk, illustrating cost and convenience.

Lowe's Tool Rental vs Ownership Cost Comparison

Instead of buying a specialized tool you'll use once, Lowe's now lets you reserve it online for a half-day, picking it up instantly at a self-service kiosk.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 26· 6 min
Diverse community members selecting tools and equipment from shelves in a bustling, well-stocked community tool library, showcasing shared resources.

Community groups, libraries lend tools for sharing

At the Asheville Tool Library, an annual household membership costs between $50 and $350 on a sliding scale, providing access to nearly 4,000 items—from power tools to party supplies—as of April 2026,

Kyle Brenner· Apr 25· 2 min
Detroit residents collaborating on a community project, utilizing a variety of tools and equipment provided by ToolBank Detroit.

ToolBank Detroit expands community projects with new equipment resources

A paint can key costs just 2 cents to rent weekly at Detroit's new ToolBank.

Rick Donovan· Apr 22· 2 min
A symbolic representation of a locked critical infrastructure IT system with a figure trying to gain repair access, highlighting the threat to public services.

Colorado Bill Proposes Critical Infrastructure IT Exemption

In Colorado, a state known for championing the right to repair everything from wheelchairs to farm equipment, a new bill, SB26-090, now seeks to exclude 'critical infrastructure' information technolog

Luis Ortega· Apr 21· 5 min
A tradesperson using a smart home device to efficiently diagnose a problem, showcasing the integration of technology in professional trades.

Smart Home Devices for Tradespeople in 2026

A plumbing contractor recently saved 3 hours on a complex leak detection job by deploying a smart water sensor that cost less than a single service call, preventing thousands in potential structural d

Kyle Brenner· Apr 21· 5 min
Milwaukee 7-in-1 Hollowcore Multi-Nut Driver extending deep onto a threaded rod, demonstrating its unlimited depth feature on a construction jobsite.

Milwaukee's Hollowcore Driver Boosts Job Efficiency

Milwaukee's new 7-in-1 Hollowcore Multi-Nut Driver promises 'unlimited depth' for threaded rods, a direct solution to a common job site frustration.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 20· 2 min
Milwaukee 7-in-1 HOLLOWCORE™ Multi-Nut Driver with a hollow shaft, showcasing its versatility for various nut sizes and threaded rods.

Milwaukee 7-in-1 Driver: Streamlined, Effective Performance

Imagine tackling seven different nut sizes and unlimited threaded rod depths with a single, compact tool that fits in your pocket.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 19· 2 min
A variety of advanced cordless power tools, including drills, saws, and impact drivers, being used by skilled tradespeople on a modern construction site, highlighting 2026 trends.

Top 8 Cordless Power Tool Brands To Watch in 2026

In December 2024, MetricsCart analyzed 6,270 reviews across 15 impact tools from 9 leading brands, revealing a critical disconnect: while new features are abundant, user satisfaction often hinges on p

Kyle Brenner· Apr 19· 5 min
John Deere tractor and Tarter USA rotary cutter operating in a field, symbolizing a new partnership in American-made agricultural equipment.

John Deere partners with Tarter USA on American-made rotary cutters

In a strategic move, John Deere has partnered with Tarter USA to produce a new line of American-made Frontier Flex Wing Rotary Cutters, with manufacturing set to begin in Liberty, Kentucky.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 18· 2 min
Diverse collection of items available for lending at the Amarillo Public Library, including tools, kitchenware, and novelty kits, showcasing community resource sharing.

Amarillo Public Library Launches Innovative Lending Program

On April 20, the Amarillo Public Library began lending items like reel lawnmowers, cake pans, and even a ghost hunting kit.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 17· 2 min
Firefighters efficiently using new, battery-powered extrication tools during a critical rescue operation, showcasing advanced technology.

Duenweg Fire Department Unveils New Battery-Powered Extrication Tools

On Wednesday, the Duenweg Fire Department unveiled new battery-powered extrication equipment, eliminating the need for bulky hydraulic hoses and separate engines during critical rescues, according to

Luis Ortega· Apr 15· 2 min
A curated collection of essential cordless power tool accessories, including drill bits, saw blades, and battery packs, displayed on a rugged workbench at a construction site.

7 Top Cordless Power Tool Accessories for Tradespeople

In a significant departure from traditional tool buying, contractors increasingly select essential power tools based on accessory compatibility, not individual tool merits.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 15· 6 min
Massachusetts firefighters in new gear stand with a fire truck, showcasing the impact of recent state grants for essential equipment upgrades.

Massachusetts Fire Departments Receive Millions in New Grants and Equipment

307 fire departments across Massachusetts will share $5 million in state grants in 2026.

Ben Foster· Apr 14· 2 min
A high-powered pressure washer cleaning a heavily soiled construction crane, showcasing the effectiveness of GPM and PSI in heavy equipment maintenance.

Choosing Pressure Washers for Heavy Equipment

A crane, uncleaned for 12 months, took 1.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 14· 5 min
Skilled tradesperson using a professional manual tile cutter with precision on a large format porcelain tile in a construction setting.

Top 5 Manual Cutting Tools for Trade Pros

A top-tier manual tile cutter, the Montolit Masterpiuma 161P5, can precisely cut materials up to 63.

Rick Donovan· Apr 12· 7 min
A DeWalt pressure washer powerfully cleaning a patio, demonstrating its effectiveness for home cleaning tasks.

DeWalt Pressure Washers: Versatile for Home Cleaning

The Ryobi RY142500 Brushless 2500 PSI Pressure Washer is widely recommended as the best choice for most homeowners, signaling a clear shift towards balanced performance over sheer power.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 12· 2 min
A powerful cordless drill in action, held by a tradesperson in a well-equipped workshop, showcasing versatility and strength for DIY and professional tasks.

Top 10 Best Cordless Drills for Versatility and Power

A Dewalt Atomic 20-Volt drill punches through 16-gauge steel in just 1.

Luis Ortega· Apr 12· 7 min
Small auto care business owner looking worried at tablet showing rising data costs for ACES and PIES standards in 2026.

Auto Care Tech Tools 2026 Updates Add New Data Costs

For an auto care company generating under $1 million in global revenue, accessing essential industry data standards like ACES and PIES now requires an annual investment of $2,500, according to the Aut

Luis Ortega· Apr 10· 2 min
A farmer contemplates a high-priced software license for repairing John Deere equipment, symbolizing the complex 'right to repair' battle.

John Deere releases self-repair tools, with a price

John Deere, after years of resisting, has agreed to a $99 million settlement that will allow its US customers to fix their own equipment, but the "right to repair" now comes with a price tag that can

Kyle Brenner· Apr 10· 2 min
A professional workbench showcasing seven essential electrical wiring tools, including wire strippers, pliers, a multimeter, and a voltage tester, ready for use in a modern workshop.

The 7 Essential Tools for Electrical Wiring Projects: A Guide for 2024

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a dedicated DIYer, having the right electrical tools is crucial for safety and efficiency. This guide breaks down seven indispensable items, from basic wire prep to complex installations.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 8· 7 min
A well-organized workbench showcasing a selection of affordable yet essential tools from Harbor Freight, ready for various DIY and professional projects.

7 Essential Harbor Freight Tools Under $100 for 2024

Looking for top-performing tools that won't break the bank? This guide reveals the 7 essential Harbor Freight tools under $100 that deliver serious value for DIYers and professionals alike.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 6· 9 min
Three skilled tradespeople, a plumber, electrician, and carpenter, confidently using their advanced cordless power tools on a modern construction site, symbolizing efficiency and freedom.

7 Top-Rated Cordless Tools for Plumbers, Electricians, and Carpenters

The days of being tethered to a power outlet are long gone. This guide reviews 7 top-rated cordless tools for plumbers, electricians, and carpenters, evaluated based on third-party lab tests and expert consensus.

Rick Donovan· Apr 5· 9 min
A professional tradesperson evaluating a selection of top cordless power tool systems including Milwaukee, DeWalt, Bosch, and Makita, arranged on a workbench in a modern workshop.

The Best Cordless Power Tool Systems for Pro Trades: A 2024 Comparison

Choosing the right cordless power tool system is a long-term investment for professional tradespeople. This guide breaks down top systems like Milwaukee, DeWalt, Bosch, and Makita, evaluating them on tool selection, battery performance, durability, and overall value.

Kyle Brenner· Apr 4· 6 min
A comprehensive mechanic's tool set, featuring wrenches, sockets, and ratchets, neatly arranged on a workbench in a professional garage, ready for automotive repair tasks.

Best Mechanic's Tool Sets at Every Price Point in 2024

Choosing the right mechanic's tool set is crucial for efficiency and quality work. This guide compares top-performing options across distinct budget tiers to help you make an informed investment.

Luis Ortega· Apr 4· 6 min
Professional tradespeople on a modern construction site using innovative, high-tech power tools with advanced features, enhancing efficiency and safety in 2025.

Top 5 Innovative Power Tools for Professional Efficiency in 2025

This ranked guide breaks down the top 5 innovative smart tools that are changing how work gets done on the job site, focusing on advanced engineering for unprecedented performance. These tools are for professional tradespeople who need equipment that can keep up with demanding schedules and complex tasks.

Kyle Brenner· Mar 31· 8 min
A professional carpenter uses a cordless circular saw on a construction site at dawn, showcasing the power and efficiency of modern battery-powered tools for tradespeople.

Choosing a Professional Cordless Tool Combo Kit in 2026: DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita Compared

Choosing a professional cordless tool combo kit in 2026 involves selecting a battery ecosystem for long-term business growth, considering tool match to daily work, brushless motors, and platform expandability. DeWalt 20V MAX XR, Milwaukee M18 FUEL, and Makita 40Vmax XGT offer distinct advantages for different trades and priorities.

Kyle Brenner· Mar 31· 5 min
A professional carpenter using a high-performance cordless drill to fasten wood on a construction site, showcasing durability and precision in a dynamic work environment.

Comparing Top-Rated Cordless Drills for Professional Tradespeople in 2024

Choosing the right cordless drill is crucial for professional tradespeople. This guide breaks down top-rated models by their ideal use case, helping you match the tool's performance and ergonomics to your specific workflow.

Kyle Brenner· Mar 30· 7 min
Advanced AI systems and robotic arms working collaboratively in a high-tech manufacturing and construction setting, showcasing efficiency and precision.

AI Revolutionizing Robotics in Manufacturing and Construction

In a modern factory, advanced AI systems now process terabytes of data daily, making critical quality control decisions that often challenge even their own developers to fully explain.

Rick Donovan· Aug 28· 3 min
Tradespeople working with advanced cordless power tool systems, showcasing integrated battery platforms for enhanced productivity and efficiency on a construction site.

Top 2 Cordless Power Tool Systems for Tradespeople

The M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ XC5™ Battery Pack delivers a staggering 50% more power than its predecessor, yet raw power alone isn't the most critical factor for a tradesperson's daily grind.

Kyle Brenner· Aug 27· 3 min
A new tradesperson with a full DeWalt 10-tool cordless combo kit, representing an affordable entry into professional trades.

Essential DeWalt Kit for New Tradespeople Under $700

An entry-level tradesperson can now acquire a 10-tool DeWalt cordless combo kit for $619, nearly half its original $1,099 price.

Kyle Brenner· Aug 24· 4 min