Table of Contents

Summer 2009

Sitelines

• Retool for Green
  There's a lot of talk these days about how the green economy is going to revitalize our industry – especially through energy-related upgrades to existing buildings – and how, when markets for new homes recover, they will be distinctly greener. I couldn't agree more. [more]

Features

• First Test: Milwaukee SwitchBlade Bits
  The latest Selfeeds have replaceable blades.
• First Test: Bosch's First-Ever Nailer
  The first test of the Bosch SN350-20F, 20-degree full round-head framing nailer.
• Torque Standards Stall
  Now that the tool industry has established testing standards, why is it taking so long for companies to adopt them? Mike Morris digs into the latest on these important standards.
• Tool Test: 10-inch Tile Saws
  Larger-size tiles made from hard-to-cut porcelain put the pressure on the seven new portable wet saws we tested. Here's how they compare when it comes to cut quality and accuracy, the precision of moving parts, and ease of use. We also considered water delivery to the cut, overspray and dripping-water messes, and portability issues. Find out which 10-inch saw is for you.
  

Cutting Edge

• Site Commander Winner!
  Minnesota builder wins 2009 Sweepstakes grand prize.
• New Tool Update
  No slowdown in tool introductions.
• Summer 2009 Hot Finds
• Truckin' Around: New-Age Trucks on Horizon
  Tradesmen and small-business owners will have a new compact work-van option when the Transit Connect lands in Ford Motor Co. showrooms this summer. / Smith Electric Vehicles has announced plans to build all-electric, zero-emission commercial vehicles beginning later this year.

Product Watch

• Special Focus: Pneumatic and cordless fastening systems / new intros

Tool Hounds

We just love tools. Is that a problem?

• Driving the Brand: Ken Hefley, Senior VP of Marketing, Makita USA