Bosch 18v Flexiclick 5-In-1 GSR18V-535FCB15

by | Feb 23, 2020 | Tools | 0 comments

Picture of a Bosch 18v Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill Driver
Picture of a Bosch 18v Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill Driver

Bosch 18v Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill Driver

It’s rare at this point in my life I see a tool I have to buy RIGHT NOW but Bosch got me with the their 18v Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill Driver. It all started when I noticed the Bosch GSR12V-140FCB22 12V Brushless Kit on Amazon, I said to myself “if only there was an 18 volt brushless version and low and behold with a few clicks I learned the tool already exists, so I ordered it. In my review of the Bosch 18v  Brushless Flexiclick 5-In-1 drill I will share the appeal of the tool to me.

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Ordering Information

Bosch GSR18V-535FCB15 18V EC Brushless Connected-Ready Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill/Driver System with (1) CORE18V 4.0 Ah Compact Battery

The Bosch 18V Flexiclick® 5-In-1 Drill/Driver System is designed for professionals who are looking for a high-torque connected-ready drill/driver that redefines their limits to get the tough jobs done. The drill can produce up to 535 In.-Lbs. of torque. Users may also add an optional rotary hammer adapter (not included), converting the drill into an SDS-plus® rotary hammer, for drilling into masonry.

The tool has a 1/4 In. hex bit holder with quick release, and the system includes three pro-grade attachments: a right-angle, an offset-angle, and a 1/2 In. keyless metal chuck attachment. The kit includes a CORE18V 4.0 Ah Compact Battery with next-gen Li-ion 21700 cell technology and an 18V charger. The drill features Bluetooth® connectivity, which uses an optional Bosch Connected Tool Module to connect the tool to the free Bosch Toolbox app on a connected device, to customize settings and provide detailed feedback. The drill has KickBack Control, a precision clutch, and an efficient EC Brushless motor.

Bosch 18v Brushless Flexiclick 5-in-1 Drill Driver

Bosch 18v Brushless Flexiclick 5-in-1 Drill Driver

Includes

  • (1) GSR18V-535FC 18V EC Brushless Connected-Ready Flexiclick® 5-In-1 Drill/Driver
  • (1) Metal Keyless Chuck Attachment
  • (1) Right-Angle Attachment
  • (1) Offset-Angle Attachment
  • (1) 18V CORE18V Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Compact Battery
  • (1) 18V Charger
  • (1) 4x Bit Holder
  • (4) Bits
  • (1) Belt Clip
  • (1) Carrying Bag

Benefits

  • Flexiclick® 5-in-1 design – delivers outstanding versatility in an EC Brushless, compact, high-quality drill/driver
  • EC Brushless motor – efficient motor for a tool that weighs just 2.1 Lbs. (tool only, battery not included) but delivers 535 In.-Lbs. of torque with a long lifetime
  • Locking bit holder – locks hex bits for high-torque driving
  • Right-angle chuck – designed for tight workspaces; rotates to 16 positions without removing from tool
  • Offset-angle attachment – offers precise performance very close to edges; rotates to 16 positions without removing from tool
  • CORE18V Compact Battery – provides next-gen Li-ion 21700 cell technology in a lightweight, high-power battery with optimal performance
  • Bluetooth® connectivity – uses an optional Bosch Connected Tool Module to connect the tool to the free Bosch Toolbox app on a connected device, to customize settings and provide detailed feedback
  • KickBack Control – limits rotation of the tool in a bind-up scenario
  • Keyless chuck attachment – provides locked-in drilling for difficult materials
  • LED light – illuminates dark work areas effectively

Specifications

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MILWAUKEE HIGH TORQUE IMPACT WRENCH HALF INCH 2767-20

by | Jan 26, 2020 | Tools | 0 comments

Picture of a Milwaukee Impact Wrench High Torque 2767-20

Milwaukee Impact Wrench 1/2" High Torque 2767-20

Recently I decided to make a career change from Information Technology into a high tech maintenance position, as part of that change I need to buy some tools. The first tool I need is a 1/2″ drive cordless impact wrench, not just any cordless impact wrench but “THE MOST POWERFUL CORDLESS 1/2″ DRIVE IMPACT WRENCH”  money can buy. Sounds simple enough right? Well unfortunately the internet is full of fake review of “Top 10 Most Powerful Cordless Impact Wrenches” and other equally crafted clickbait. Because of this I was forced to perform old fashioned research based on specifications and conversations on Reddit. To that end, based on specifications “THE MOST POWERFUL CORDLESS 1/2″ DRIVE IMPACT WRENCH is the MILWAUKEE 2767-20“. This is what I will be buying. Actually I will be buying the MILWAUKEE IMPACT WRENCH 2767-22 KIT which includes two batteries and a battery charger. Look for a review very soon.

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​

Milwaukee High Torque Impact Wrench M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Impact Wrench with Friction Ring (Tool-Only)

The 2767 M18 FUEL high torque impact wrench with friction ring eliminates the need to use a pneumatic tool for those stubborn and rusted bolts by delivering 1,000 ft./lbs. of fastening torque and 1400 ft./lbs. of nut-busting torque. With 2X faster removal speed, users will be able to get the job done faster and be more productive throughout their day, by providing the industry’s most compact cordless high torque impact wrench at 8.39 in. L, this tool allows for more access in tight spaces. 4-Mode drive control with bolt removal mode gives users the most control over their fasteners. Bolt Removal mode gives the user more control when removing fasteners by slowing to 750 RPM once the fastener has been busted loose. This tool offers quick, tool-free socket changes with a 1/2 in. friction ring anvil. A premium rubber over-mold material gives you ultimate comfort during prolonged use while lasting longer against corrosive materials.

  • POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers up to 1000 ft./lbs. of fastening torque and 1400 ft./lbs. of nut-busting torque
  • Provides maximum productivity by removing stubborn and high torque fasteners up to 2X faster than the competition
  • Most compact cordless high torque impact wrench in its class at 8.39 in. L
  • Industry-leading 4-mode drive control with bolt removal mode, allowing for ultimate control, 0 to 550/1,400/1750/1750-750 RPM and 0-950/1,750/2,100/2,100 IPM
  • Bolt removal mode provides maximum nut-busting torque to break fastener free, then slows to 750 RPM for more control when removing fasteners
  • REDLINK Plus intelligence prevents damage to the tool and battery due to overloading or overheating
  • REDLITHIUM batteries deliver more work per charge and more work over the life of the battery
  • Features a friction ring design to ensure quick and easy socket changes
  • Premium rubber over-mold withstands corrosive materials and provides increased comfort when in use
  • Reduced user fatigue at only 7.5 lbs. with battery (battery not included)
  • LED light to illuminate the work area
  • Part of the M18 System, featuring over 135 plus tools
  • Includes: 2767-20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. high torque impact wrench with friction ring (bare tool)

Milwaukee High Torque Impact Wrench Dimensions

  • Drive Size (in.) – 1/2
  • Product Depth (in.) – 8.39 in
  • Product Height (in.) – 10.7 in
  • Product Width (in.)  – 3.15 in

Milwaukee High Torque Impact Wrench Details

  • Amperage (amps) – 0.0 A
  • Batteries Included – No
  • Battery Amp Hours – 0.0
  • Battery Power Type – Lithium-Ion
  • Battery Size – 18-volt
  • Battery/Charger – Tool Only
  • Charger Included – Charger Not Included
  • Color Family – Red
  • Condition – New
  • Cordless Tool Type – Impact Wrench
  • Cordless/ Corded – Cordless
  • Impacts Per Minute – 2100
  • Maximum Speed (rpm) – 1750
  • Motor Type – Brushless
  • Number of Batteries Included – 0
  • Number of Batteries Included – 0
  • Power Tool Features – Brushless,LED Light,Variable Speed
  • Product Weight (lb.) – 5.9 lb
  • Returnable – 90-Day
  • Tools Product Type – Power Tool
  • Torque (lb-in) – 1000 ft.lb.
  • Voltage (volts) – 18
 
 

Warranty / Certifications

  • Certifications and Listings – 1-UL Listed, CSA Listed, ETL Listed
  • Manufacturer Warranty – 5 Year Tool Warranty

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DEWALT DRYWALL CUT-OUT TOOL KIT DCS551D2

by | Nov 11, 2018 | Tools | 0 comments

DEWALT DRYWALL CUT-OUT TOOL KIT DCS551D2

DEWALT DCS551D2 CUT-OUT TOOL KIT 

20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drywall Cut-Out Tool Kit with (2) Batteries 2Ah, Charger and Contractor Bag

In an earlier post I wrote about the Dewalt Cut-Out Tool DW660. I wrote that I liked the tool very much over the two years that I have owned and used it, however on a recent trip to the Waterbury, Connecticut Home Depot things changed. I made the mistake of walking the tool crib and while admiring the cordless tools I noticed something, I noticed what appeared to be a tool that kind of looked like my Dw660 cut out tool with a battery. I had to pick it up, I had to touch it. I instantly noticed a few details I liked that I will consider improvements over the corded sibling. 

DEWALT DW660 VERSUS DEWALT DCS551D2 DRYWALL CUT OUT TOOLS

DEWALT DW660 VERSUS DEWALT DCS551D2 DRYWALL CUT OUT TOOLS

DEWALT DW660 VERSUS DEWALT DCS551D2 DRYWALL CUT OUT TOOLS

The DCS551D2 is substantially lighter weight than the DW660, the barrel is smaller in diameter than the DW660 and therefore much easier to control and more comfortable to hold. The tool-less chuck of the DCS551D2 is simpler and easier to manipulate than the DW660. The DCS551D2 operates at 2600 rpm versus 3000 rpm of the DW660 and that’s a good thing because neither tool as variable speed and the general consensus is the DW660 operates at too high of a speed. I would have still prefered a variable speed option on both tools. In fact at 3 to 4 times the cost of the DW660 it’s quite surprising to me that the DCS551D2 is not variable speed.

DEWALT DCS551D2 CUT-OUT TOOL REVIEW

A review for the Dewalt DCS551D2 Cut Out Tool is coming soon. I have a lot of low voltage electrical boxes to install in drywall with my Cutzout Templates over the next few weeks.

Picture of a DEWALT DRYWALL CUT-OUT TOOL KIT DCS551D2

DEWALT DRYWALL CUT-OUT TOOL KIT DCS551D2

The DEWALT DCS551D2 Cut-Out tool is perfect for cutting in drywall, ceiling tiles or plywood. This tool features a bright LED that illuminates dark work surfaces for accurate cutting. The DCS551D2 is backed by a DEWALT 3 year limited warranty for added peace of mind.

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  • 26,000 RPM motor delivers fast cutting in drywall, acoustical ceiling tiles, plywood
  • Tool-free bit change allows for fast and easy bit changing without a wrench
  • Dust-sealed switch protects against dust ingestion for longer tool life

Dewalt DCS551D2 Cut-Out Tool Features & Specs

FEATURES

  • 26,000 RPM motor delivers fast cutting in drywall, acoustical ceiling tiles, plywood, etc.
  • Tool-free for fast and easy bit changing without a wrench
  • Dust-sealed switch protects against dust ingestion for longer tool life
  • Bright LED light illuminates dark work surfaces for accurate cutting

Visit Dewalt

Download the DEWALT DRYWALL CUT-OUT TOOL KIT DCS551D2 INSTRUCTION MANUAL

  • 1/4 in. and 1/8 in. collet diameter
  • Adjustable guide
  • Ideal for cutting holes in drywall for recessed lighting, electrical boxes or outlets

Dewalt DCS551D2 Cut-Out Tool Features & Specs

Specifications

  • Adjustable Guide Yes
  • Collet Diameter 1/4″, 1/8″ in
  • No Load Speed 26,000RPM rpm
  • Power Tool Type Cordless
  • Spindle Lock Yes
  • Tool Length 10-7/8″ in
  • Tool Weight 3.1 lbs

Includes

  • DCS551 Cut-Out Tool
  • (2) DCB203: 20V MAX* Compact Li-Ion Batteries (2.0 Ah)
  • Fast Charger
  • Kit Bag

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DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660

by | Nov 10, 2018 | Tools | 0 comments

DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660

DEWALT HEAVY DUTY CUT-OUT TOOL DW660

The Dewalt DW660 Cut-Out Tool is one of those tools that reviewers either love or hate without much in between. In my experience it’s a great tool at $60. First off I believe the tool is often used incorrectly and impatiently. See the section below for my thoughts on that. 

My use of the Dewalt DW660 cut out tool has been  for cutting holes in drywall for low voltage and retrofit boxes and acoustical ceiling tiles. I also use it when I need to nibble something a bit . Sometimes I do it free hand but whenever possible I try to use some sort of guide or straightedge. I use these a guide/straight edge to keep me from going out of my my lines, Im not treating it like any sort of precision fence. I also occasionally treat the DW660 like a big Dremel and use my Dremel bits. It’s not a tool I use often but it sure is handy when I need it. I do not use the Dewalt Cut Out tool as a router and I do not use it in places where my Fein Multi-Master is a better choice. About the only gripe I share with others is the lack of variable speed. Quite simply every job doesn’t require a 30,000 rpm bit. i would have spent a little more on a variable speed option. I also wish there was a clear accessory base available. This would make the tool a little more stable in free hand applications.

Dewalt DW660 Pro’s

  • Inexpensive
  • Powerful
  • Made well
  • Long double insulated power cord
  • Uses common Rotozip bits.

Dewalt DW660 Con’s

  • Not variable speed
  • A little thick to hold for medium and small hands
  • A little tall and top heavy
  • Lack of accessories like a bigger base.
  • Chuck is a little fat for a guy with small and missing fingers. (It’s why i use a wrench)
  • Tool-Less chuck could be better
  • No carry case

Update: I have since replaced this with the Dewalt Drywall Cut-Out Tool DCS551D2. Follow the link to find out why.

DEWALT CUT OUT TOOL DW660 PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS

  • The Dewalt DW660 might be based on a router but it is NOT a router. Do not expect it to perform as one. If you need a router buy a Bosch or Porter Cable router.
  • Burning Bits: Yes it’s true, spinning a small cutter at 30,000 rpm’s generates a lot of heat. Slow down and don’t use a constant feed in dense materials like plywood or cement backer board and your bits will last longer.
  • Breaking of bits. See the previous statement.
  • Stuck bits:
    • Clean the collet and motor shaft with alcohol or degreaser. This removes any residue from any anti-rust agent Dewalt may have applied at the factory. These types of coating can act like adhesive when heated.
    • Very lightly grease the motor shaft so the collet will be lubricated. I use a Q-tip swap. This grease prevents the collet and motor shaft from betting stuck together. (Keep grease and oil out of the collet and off the bit). Do not bottom the bit out. Keep the bit at least 1/8″ away from bottoming out, ideally, always make certain all the cutting flutes our above the chuck and collet.
    • Keep the inside of the collet and the shank of the cutters clean
    • Don’t over tighten the bits! The tool-less system was designed to apply enough holding force with normal finger pressure.
    • Don’t use cheap import bits, the soft steel and possible out of tolerance dimensions can cause problems. I use Rotozip.
    • Use a 5/8″ wrench to loosen the chuck. It’s just easier than the tool-less method. Never use a wrench to tighten the chuck
  • Slipping Bits: This is similar to above. Use quality bits. Do not bottom the bits out. Keep the inside of the collet and the shank of the bit clean. Use quality bits. Do not force the feed rate!
Picture of a DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660

DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660

The ideal rotary tool for drywall installers, this DEWALT 5 Amp Heavy-Duty Cut-Out Tool DW660 was built with a 30,000 rpm 5 Amp motor for powerful cutting. Use it to make outlet cuts in drywall, title (such as acoustical tile) and other materials with ease. With a tool-free bit change and bump-off switch, you get increased productivity on any drywall job.

Learn More

DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660 FEATURES & SPECS

FEATURES

  • Tool-free bit change for fast and easy bit changing without a wrench
  • Turn-on/Bump-off switch allows user to easily shut tool off
  • 5.0 amp, 30,000 rpm motor provides more cutting power
  • Slim body design and ergonomic for less fatigue over prolonged use
  • Dust-Sealed Switch protects against dust ingestion for longer switch life
  • Jam-pot construction provides jobsite durability

Download the DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660 INSTRUCTION MANUAL

DEWALT CUT-OUT TOOL DW660 SPECIFICATIONS

  • Adjustable GuideYes
  • Amps5.0 Amps
  • Collet Diameter1/8″, 1/4 in
  • No Load Speed30,000 rpm
  • Power Tool TypeCorded
  • Shipping Weight3.5 lbs
  • Spindle LockYes
  • Tool Length10 in
  • Tool Weight3.2 lbs

Includes

  • 1 drywall cutting bit
  • 1/4″, 1/8″ collets

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BEST ROMEX STAPLE GUN | GARDNER BENDER CABLE BOSS MSG 501

by | Nov 4, 2018 | Tools | 2 comments

BEST ROMEX STAPLE GUN | GARDNER BENDER CABLE BOSS MSG 501

Picture of my attic

THE FRUSTRATION OF STAPLING ROMEX CABLE IN MY ATTIC

Recently the decision was made to add some flood lights to the ends of my home. This was no small task as I live in a raised ranch with a very low attic with no floor (See picture above). The first part of the process of installing these lights meant I needed to run a couple hundred feet of 12/2 romex and staple it in place on the roof joists. That’s where things became difficult for me. I immediately learned that about 90 percent of my (NM) romex stapling was in locations that were impossible to swing a hammer and drive in the romex staples.

After a bit of bloody knuckles, holes in my head roofing nails and a bit of anger I came up with an alternative plan for securing the romex to my roof joists. I did some research on wiring attics and learned I was not alone in my plight, a few other had used a product from Gardner Bender called SnapSHOT Multi Cable Staple part number MCS-20W. As luck would have it I had a bag of these on hand for my next project of running coaxial and Cat 6 in the attic to the rooms below. 

The Snapshot Multi Cable Staples come with a wood screw for the flush end and a nail for the tall end. The nail was replaced with a wood screw. Problem solved? Not exactly. The Snapshot Multi Cable Staples were a good idea in theory but in practice using my Bosch cordless drill or a traditional philips screwdriver was nearly as challenging as swinging a hammer on the NM staples. I needed a new plan and at this point I was prepared to throw some money at the problem. I set out to research staplers for wire and cable.

Cable and Wire Staple Guns

I was hoping to buy a purpose made pneumatic or electric staple gun designed just for my needs. My research was disappointing. At first I was excited to find exactly what I wanted in the HALEX Quikstrap Staple Gun. Unfortunately it seems like that the tool is no longer available. Typical of my luck. A bit more searching turned up three manual staple guns that could staple romex and other common cables. The first stapler I had high hopes for was from the company Arrow Fastener. Arrow Fastener makes the best manual staple guns, period. Arrow makes two models the Arrow T75 and Arrow T72 that are suitable for romex stapling. I was excited until I wasn’t. Most reviews on both models are dismall. The reviews were not a deal breaker though. The fact that neither Home Depot or Lowes stocked it in store was. I actually wonder if poor performance is the reason for it not being stocked. This left me with one option, the Gardner Bender Cable Boss.

GARDNER BENDER CABLE BOSS MSG 501 CABLE AND WIRE STAPLE GUN

The GB Cable Boss MSG 501 reviewed slightly better than the Arrow Fastener models and both Lowes and Home Depot had stock. Off to the Waterbury, Connecticut Home Depot I went. Aisle 46, Bay 012 had the goal of my quest. The Cable Boss cost $29.97, a box of 200 3/8″ romex staples cost $9.97 and 1/2″ was $6.97 for 200. For the life of me I can’t figure out why there is a $3 difference in the staples. 

Once home I headed straight for the attic. I removed to Cable Boss from it’s clamshell packaging, gave the instructions a quick read  and off to work I went. The first thing I needed to do was reverse the tip because that was the end that fit the 12/2 romex. The tip was a bit hard to insert in this orientation as opposed to the reverse as shipped from the factory.

USING THE CABLE BOSS ROMEX STAPLER

Loading the staple gun is easy. Like most heavy duty staple guns you push the tray in, pull down than pull out. The stapler holds one row of staples from the box. I think they are rows of 20 but I didn’t count. Load the stapler in reverse of unloading.

I immediately headed to one of the more difficult areas in my attic. I lined up the romex in the rear guide and the nose of the stapler and “BANG” I had a perfectly installed romex staple. That first staple had me arrive at two initial observations, one is that the stapler takes quite a bit of effort to squeeze and two the wire of the staples is quite a bit thinner that I had expected. Of course both of those observations make sense. It takes quite a lot of energy to drive the staples and the thin wire of the staples makes it doable by a manual stapler. Regardless I was Impressed. Over the course of about an hour and a half I stapled all the romex in my attic. Talk about a time saver. The night before it was taking me about 5 minutes per GB snapshot.

A few notes about use. You must apply a substantial amount of energy to oppose the force of the driving staple. Combine that force with the energy required to squeeze the staple gun and you come to realize that you need a fair bit of strength to use the Cable Boss. This required strength translates into some difficulty stapling in awkward positions. Not a big deal though. When I got tired I spent some time doing the easy areas. 

The only time the stapler failed was when I needed to staple on a wood knot. On a few knots I had to tap the romex staples once or twice. Other than that the tool performed absolutely perfect, not a single jam or malfunction. I suspect folks who have trouble are simply not applying enough pressure to the staple gun and its bouncing.

I give the Cable Boss 4 out of 5 stars. I subtract one star because of the effort required to squeeze the handle might be too much for some. I would like to see Gardner Bender make one improvement, make a model that ratchets until firing. This would make the tool much easier to use?

Is the Cable Boss the Best Romex Staple Gun? In such a narrow field with plenty of room for improvement i would say yes the GB Cable Boss is the Best Romex Stapler. I will try and get some video of the Cable Boss in use real soon.

Next time I will be using it on RG-6 and Cat 6E Ethernet Cable, stay tuned.

Picture of a Gardner Bender Cable Boss MSG 501 Romex Stapler

Gardner Bender Cable Boss MSG 501 Romex Stapler

Gardner Bender provides a complete line of staple and fastening solutions for all industries, including industrial, residential, construction or manufacturing. From low voltage wire to service entrance cables, professionals rely on Gardner Bender for quality fastening products. Cable Boss staple gun secures 120-Volt and low voltage cable: Romex, coaxial and CAT5 from the same tool. 

Learn More

Features include comfort grip areas for 2 handed operation, easy trigger force and ergonomic handle. Rugged construction capable of surviving a 10 ft. drop. Other features include a reversible cable guide for easy cable stapling change over, a staple refill window to view remaining staples and a rear cable guide for added cable control reduces cable twisting. Secures round and flat cable, 3 sizes covering NM, coax, voice/data and low voltage.

  • Comfort grip areas for 2-handed operation
  • Heavy Duty
  • Secures NM, Coax, VDV, and Low Voltage Cable
  • Staple guide ensures full insertion of the staple into the wood without damage to the cable insulation
  • Designed to work with the following GB Staples Model #s: MPS-2080 5/16 in Metal Insulated Staple, MPS-2100 3/8 in Metal Insulated Staples , and #MPS-2125 1/2 in Metal Insulated Staples

CABLE BOSS STAPLER DOWNLOADS

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