Builders' Tools and Equipment

Cordless power tool directory

2008-03-07T08:38:31Z

Have you ever been endlessly searching for power tools on Google? Well, here you will find a directory of cordless power tools from companies such as Makita, Dewalt, Black and Decker, and Metabo. Whether you require a simple 9v compact drill a mid range 12v drill or a heavy duty 18v combi, you will find the right product in this comprehensive collection. ]]> 180degree drill driver 12v: Drill Autoselect Drill driver GELTECH drill NiHM drill driver Compact drill driver Compact drill driver with 2 batteries 14.4v: Drill driver Drill (orange, with accessory cup) GELTECH drill Compact drill Autoselect 12v GSR drill driver 14.4v GSR drill driver 36v GSR drill driver 24v GSR drill driver 9.6v: 9.6v drill driver 12v: 10mm drill driver 13mm drill driver Drill driver Mid handle drill driver Heavy duty drill driver 14.4v Drill driver 13mm drill driver 18v: Heavy duty drill driver Heavy duty cordless drill 14.4v: Combi Combi plus 18v: Combi Combi hammer 3-speed 24v: Drill/driver Combi drill 18v: Drill driver Drill driver 3-speed Combi 3-speed (anniversary edition) Combi 3-speed Combi Drill driver 3-speed MXT Drill driver MXT Combi Drill driver Drill driver 2-speed Combi Drill 2-speed Drill driver with ‘marathon’ motor 14.4v: Combi drill Combi 4 function Drill driver 3-speed Combi drill 3-speed MXT Drill driver MXT Combi drill Drill driver 2-speed Combi drill 2-speed Drill driver with ‘marathon’ motor 12v: MXT Combi drill Combi drill MXT Drill driver Drill driver with ‘marathon’ motor Angle drill driver Drill driver 9.6v: Drill driver Drill driver (compact design) Angle drill driver 7.2v: Drill driver Powermaxx: 4.8V drill driver 7.2v drill driver 7.2v pro drill driver BZ: 12v drill driver BSZ: 12v drill driver 14.4v drill driver 18v drill driver BSZ Impuls: 12v drill driver 14.4 drill driver 18v drill driver BSP: 18v drill driver plus 12v: Drill driver Drill driver 2-speed Hammer drill driver 14.4v Drill driver Hammer drill driver 18v: Hammer drill driver 12v drill driver 18v drill driver

The lowdown on mini excavators

2008-02-14T09:46:08Z

The popularity of mini excavators among builders, odd-jobbers and the like, means the last thing you now reach for, when digging, is a spade. But what happens when that traditional one-tonne mini digger is just too big for the job in hand? Well, there is another option available before you resort to the wheelbarrow and spade. And that machine in question is called a micro excavator.]]> www.bobcat.co.uk) Bobcat’s 316 micro excavator has an operating weight of just 820kg and offers a diminutive set of dimensions – an overall width of 750mm, a length of 2913mm and a height of 2052mm. As the smallest model in Bobcat’s range of mini excavators, the 316 is arguably designed for narrow spaces. Running on 180mm-wide rubber tracks, the 316 is powered by a 10hp water-cooled Kubota D722 diesel engine, which musters a bucket digging force of 8.3kN across its 350mm-wide bucket. Boom and arm dimensions give a maximum digging depth of 1550mm and a dump height of 2010mm. An engine-driven, two-section gear pump offers 10.2 litres of oil flow, with 20.4 litres/min available for auxiliary attachments such as post-hole augers and hydraulic hammers. Like the firm’s larger 1.3 tonne 319 and 1.5 tonne 321/323 mini-excavators, the 316 has an undercarriage that can be hydraulically adjusted to make the machine narrow for access through restricted spaces, then expanded to create increased stability in work. In its narrowest setting, the 316’s undercarriage measures just 700mm wide – 25mm narrower than the upper structure. Once the undercarriage has been expanded, its width measures 900mm, which increases machine stability when working over the side of the tracks. It’s offset boom function allows the bucket to be slewed 87 degrees to the left and 47 degrees to the right of the upper structure, allowing the machine to dig parallel to its chassis, but outside the width of its tracks. JCB (www.jcb.com) JCB’s recent move into the micro-excavator sector is in direct response to builder’s requests for a mechanised alternative to manual labour. But the firm is not content with offering just one ultra compact model, but three. These are the Micro 8008, the Micro and the Micro Plus. All three share an 11.5 litre fuel tank, and are said to use less than 1.5 litres of diesel per hour. The smallest model is the 950kg 8008. Powered by a 762cc diesel engine and rated at 12.7hp, JCB claims that the 8008 is the most powerful in this sector, with a best-in-class hydraulic pump flow of 11.2 litres/min. The JCB 8008 has a variable width undercarriage, allowing it to travel through a standard doorway. The track width is reduced to 700mm when retracted, which is slightly wider than the 695mm-wide upper structure. Once extended, the track width becomes 865mm. At the working end, a tubular main boom conceals all of hydraulic hoses, mirroring a design found on the firm’s latest JCB 801 range of mini excavators. The heavier JCB Micro, which comes with an 18hp engine, features an extending undercarriage that widens from 700mm to 1000mm giving a broader footprint for this heavier, 1108kg machine. Where width is not quite as tight but height is a working restriction, the third machine in the range, the 1250kg JCB Micro Plus, could be one to consider. Also powered by an 18hp engine, it offers a larger reach, greater digging depth, full compatibility with existing JCB mini 801 series attachments and an undercarriage width of 970mm that extends to 1370mm. Dig depths extend from 1.69m through to 2.09m depending on model. Neuson (www.neuson.com) Neuson has arrived late to the micro excavator party, but being fashionably late can bring some advantages too, says the Austrian firm, which has offered its 803 model in the UK for the last 12 months. With an operating weight of 935kg, a dig depth of 1.73 m and the ability to slip through doorways with its 700mm maximum width, this is another machine that should appeal to tool hire centres, builders and the DIY fraternity. Two years in the making, the 803 brings several innovations to the sector. It has a telescopic undercarriage that shifts its maximum width from 700-860mm taking advantage of a reduced width for access through doorways, while giving a wider footprint for improved stability. The machine’s boom is a tubular construction with hoses routed through the inside for protection, and the boom hoist cylinder is mounted above the boom and kingpost offering better protection against accidental damage. It’s a design that makes the machine as simple, robust and easy to work with as possible, says Neuson, adding that a tubular boom offers high strength without excess weight. Such a design does little to detract from the 803’s capabilities – it is still possible to clean right up to the blade, using the bucket, without having to get off the machine and reach for a shovel. Joystick controls sit above the machine’s hydraulic valve block for direct control through short linkages. A 2mm lockable steel bonnet supports the operator’s seat, and the entire seat/bonnet structure hinges rearwards to give access to the engine compartment and fuel filler, where a three-cylinder Yanmar engine delivers 12.8hp. Service intervals are every 250 hours. Takeuchi (www.takeuchi-mfg.co.uk) Takeuchi’s TB108 has become one of Japanese maker’s most popular machines as builders and landscapers look for a compact, highly portable but powerful excavator. At 835kg operating weight and powered by a 9hp, two-cylinder Yanmar engine, the TB108 develops 1020 kg of bucket breakout force. And when fitted with a TKB51 breaker, weighing 32kg, it packs an equally powerful punch, says the firm. Hydraulic hoses are secure and well protected, and available with single and dual flow functions, depending on attachment requirements. Said to be robustly built with 100 per cent use of steel through out – there’s no plastic on the bodywork – and a main boom produced as a one-piece fabrication for added strength and fewer weak points, the TB108 has been produced with durability in mind. This mini excavator now comes with its own trailer and three buckets, making it an excellent all rounder for building projects. And at just 740mm – combined with compact dimensions - it easily passes through standard doorways, but can dig to a depth of 1680mm. With folding ends on the dozer blade, the operator can take full advantage of the machine’s wider footprint when the undercarriage is extended, as the blade is adjustable from 680-900mm. Komatsu (www.komatsu.co.uk) Also worth a closer look is Komatsu’s 880kg PC09-1. This diminutive machine uses a tubular boom design that can cleverly include an integral demolition hammer, as art of the dipper stick. When driving a micro excavator through an internal doorway, every millimetre is critical says the Japanese maker. Which is why firm’s PC09-1 micro excavator is proving to be such a hit with companies who have to operate in narrow spaces. By reducing the overall width by 100mm on this version, and increasing the travel speed by almost 50 per cent, the PC09-1 is small enough to pass through spaces as narrow as 700mm wide, but still packs more than enough power to handle a wide variety of jobs from its 522cc, 8.5hp diesel engine. 180mm wide rubber tracks offer a 3.5psi ground pressure and afford travel speeds from 1.5-3km/h. The hydraulic hoses for the arm and bucket cylinders are contained within the tubular boom and are extremely well protected from accidental damage. And similarly, the one-piece, cast-iron slewing frame affords protection to one of the most vulnerable areas on this type of machine. Digging depth for this model is 1465mm, with a 2025mm load-over height at ground level. Two gear pumps provide 11 litres/min of oil flow from each, offering enough power for attachments too and the ability to deliver over1000kgs of breakout force. Where the integral demolition hammer is chosen, the blow frequency is 800 per minute with an impact energy level of 108 joules.

Makita extend AVT range with HR5211C AVT SDS max rotary hammer.

2008-02-07T10:51:19Z

The 5211C AVT 11.6kg rotary hammer offers the power needed for the majority of drilling and demolition tasks. With a no-load rotary speed of up to 260rpm, drilling capacity of 52mm into concrete and 19.7 joules of impact power with up to 2,150 blows per minute available, the tool is a powerful, tough, yet safe machine. It also features the 2-Mass rear handle system where the grip area is effectively disconnected from the main machine body by hinge and spring fixings, isolating the operator from any HAV risk. In the list of control features are: a torque limiter should the drill bit snag; the automatic soft-start system which makes the motor accelerate up to speed; a constant speed feature and a variable speed control facility; and three mode selection of rotary, rotary-hammer and hammer only.

Top 5 recommended drills

2008-02-01T09:22:36Z

In this article you will find the best five drills that BuildersBox has come across so far. Whether it is a heavy duty product or something for a bit of light, small scale work, we have compiled a list of drills that should do the job for you, time and time again. So look at the machines below and tell us what you think, and drop us an email if there are any drills which you think should be considered as top of the class.]]> DeWalt DC980KA drill/driver DeWalt provide a large range of tools including an extensive selection of cordless products in voltages ranging from 36V to 12V, for either the professional or DIY enthusiast. They also provide specialist tools, such as laser instruments. As with most of their products, the DC980KA offers a number of useful design features, like a keyless chuck and an electronic brake. It provides the sort of durability that you would expect from a top brand and the performance to match. Price: £160.00 approx Related links: BuildersBox review and specification list of the product. Makita 8444 DWDE 3 Makita provide a particularly impressive range of lithium ion tools, including what the company claims to be the world's first four mode combi tool that acts as a drill, impact, hammer, and driver. The 8444 is typical of most of the company's products, providing power, performance and good durability. Its three gears offer the user an element of control and flexibility which can be lacking in cheaper, inferior products. Price: £240.00 approx Related links: BuildersBox review and stats of the 8444 combi drill. Metabo SBZ 14.4 Impact Metabo also offers a large range of tools for the vast majority of applications. They have a number of products that are considered highly in their class, and have over time, the company claims, become recognised as 'classics' in the industry. One such design is the BSZ drill/driver, which has recently been re-jigged as the SBZ lithium-ion powered cordless impact drill. The product keeps the distinct 'Z' shape of the BSZ, and the impuls mode extracts damaged screws and drills into highly polished surfaces. Price: £239.00 RRP Related links: The BuildersBox review of the drill Ryobi CDI-1803 Now for the monster. This tool weighs in at over 3kgs, but don't let that put you off. The drill can be used for hammer drilling into tough materials such as brick and concrete. It is pretty powerful, so there is a degree of vibration during intense, heavy duty work. Don't let that put you off though, as its power and weight can be as advantageous as it is problematic. Price: £80 approx Related links: Product review on BuildersBox Makita BHR240 Another quality product from Makita is its new 18V SDS+ rotary hammer drill that can be used in a variety of applications. The BHR240 Lithium-ion powered cordless hammer offers 1.9J of impact energy and drills into masonry, timber, and steel. It has a three-function operation of rotary hammer, hammer only, and rotary only. Ergonomic development has resulted in a rubberised handgrip surface that allows for comfortable operation and a reduction in HAV risk to the operator. Price: £550.00 RRP Related links: Product review on BuildersBox

JCB Toughphone hits the shelves

2008-01-14T16:08:59Z

JCB's new Toughphone claims to be the toughest phone in the world and is drop, shock, splash and dust resistant - making it suitable for use on construction sites. The phone is also backed by a 3-year guarantee.]]>

Hilti SFH 122-A cordless hammer drill/driver review

2007-12-01T16:10:20Z

Capable of drilling with Auger, Spade and Forstner bits, the tool can drive large diameter wood screws and use hole saws to cut through metal and wood. Operating with a hammering speed of 34,200bpm, the lightweight drill can bore easily into brick, masonry block and cellular concrete.

Get your hands on Leilani's tools!

2007-11-02T16:38:04Z

Here's your chance to win a power tool as modelled by glamour girl Leilani. She's teamed up with BuildersBox and Wickes, one of the UK's leading home improvement retailers, to promote their range of power tools.
And we're giving two winners the chance to win a power tool each - both of which have been signed by Leilani herself!]]> register with BuildersBox, then email your name and contact details to buildersbox.tools@rbi.co.uk, and we'll enter you into a prize draw on 16 November. The winners will be notified the following week. And remember to come back to BuildersBox for more competitions. Terms and conditions: The prize draw is not open to employees of Wickes, Travis Perkins, employees or contractors of Reed Business Information Ltd, Reed Elsevier PLC, or any person directly or indirectly involved in the organisation and running of the competition or their direct family members. No purchase is necessary to take part in this prize draw. This prize draw is organised by RBI Construction, Reed Business Information Ltd, Quadrant House, the Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5AS. Company registered in the UK, Registered No: 151537. It is governed by the laws of England and Wales and it is subject to the following terms and conditions: 1) You must be over 18 to enter. Only one entry per person. 2) There are two prizes: a Wickes Performance range 2000W 230mm Angle Grinder, and a Wickes Professional 18V Combi Hammer Drill. 3) All correct entries received by the closing date will go into a random draw and the first two entries drawn by the editor will be the winners. 4) There is no cash alternative to the prize. 5) Closing date for entry is 5.30pm on Friday 16th November 2007. 6) BuildersBox cannot be held responsible for entries which fail to arrive in time for the closing date. 7) Prizes must be claimed within one month from the date of notified. Winners will be notified on Monday 19th November 2007. The winners will be sent a Wickes letter providing further information about the prize with confirmation of what they have won and with details of how their prize will be delivered to them. No further correspondence will be opened into. By participating in the prize draw, you declare that you accept these Terms and Conditions unconditionally.

Hilti TE2 and TE2-M rotary hammer drill review

2007-11-01T16:09:50Z

The TE2-M model also has an interchangeable SDS-plus chuck which can be replaced by quick release.

Hilti DD120 diamond coring system review

2007-11-01T15:24:51Z

The DD120 can be fitted with a water suppression unit to eliminate dust and includes an LED performance indicator to ensure it operates at peak efficiency.

Hilti TE500 AVR breaker review

2007-11-01T15:19:26Z

HAV risk is reduced by a cushioned grip and a lockable switch makes the tool easier to use over long periods. Providing moderately heavy chiselling for walls, concrete and masonry, the TE 500 AVR is suitable for conduit channelling, chiselling breaches and penetration for pipes in walls and floors.

Hilti GX120 nail gun review

2007-11-01T15:16:19Z

Lighter and slimmer than its predecessor the GX100, the GX120 has improved accessibility into deep, narrow tracks and corners. It also has an electrical fuel injection system to provide a consistent energy supply.

Hilti powers forward with M&E range

2007-11-01T09:55:32Z

Hilti has expanded its offering for mechanical and electrical contractors with several additions to its product range including tools for chiselling, diamond coring, nailing, and hammering: GX120 nail gun TE500 AVR breaker DD120 diamond coring system TE2 and TE2-M rotary hammer drill SFH 122-A cordless hammer drill

Wickes launches power tool range

2007-10-22T14:22:55Z

Wickes, one of the UK’s leading home improvement retailers, has launched an extensive range of high quality Professional power tools. The Wickes Professional Power Tools range is for professional tradesman – someone who needs a heavy-duty tool. These tools are made from industrial-quality components and have superior engineering for longer durability and life. There are 16 power tools in the range.]]> Wickes Professional Range 15.6V High Torque Drill/Driver - £119.99 24V SDS+ Hammer Drill - £249.99 850W Percussion Hammer Drill - £69.99 750W High Torque Mixer Drill - £99.99 620W SDS+ Pneumatic Hammer Drill - £99.99 700W SDS+ Pneumatic Hammer Drill - £129.99 1050W Pneumatic Hammer Drill - £149.99 280W Detail Sander - £39.99 280W Half Sheet Sander - £49.99 300W Eccentric Sander - £49.99 650W Belt Sander - £99.99 500W Pendulum Jigsaw - £49.99 600W Pendulum Jigsaw - £89.99 1400W Circular Saw - £84.99 1000W Angle Grinder - £39.99 1400W Angle Grinder - £84.99 2100W Angle Grinder - £79.99 Wickes Interchangeable Range 18V Combi Hammer Drill - £99.99 18V High Torque Combi Hammer Drill - £179.99 18V Cordless Jigsaw - £34.99 18V Cordless Circular Saw - £49.99 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw - £69.99 18V Cordless Nail Gun - £49.99 18V Cordless Torch - £12.99 18V Battery Pack - £19.99 18V Fast Charger - £19.99 See also: Win two Wickes power tools Related internet links: Wickes

Makita entry-level MLS100 saw

2007-10-11T12:32:27Z

Makita has extended its mitre and table saw range with the launch of an entry-level 255mm mitre saw. The new Makita MLS100 will have a list price of 155 quid, with a variety of features. Cutting performance of the portable Makita mitre saw is good, with a 3 inch maximum depth of cut across a 5 inch plank at 900, and 2 inch maximum depth of cut on maximum 450 left bevel angle. ]]> Tech Spec: 255mm blade diameter gives 75mm max depth of cut Full 900 of mitre angle – 450 left bevel 1500watt – low 14.7kgs weight

Makita adds BPT350RFE cordless pin nailer

2007-09-14T09:57:44Z

With a magazine that holds 110 nails, the nailer can drive home 0.6mm diameter pin nails from 18 to 35mm long. The depth of the finished nail can be adjusted to give either flush, recessed or proud fit, and the tool has a 'soft-nose' rubber clip-on that can be used when pinning soft surface panels, so that there is no mark left by the carbon steel nose. Safety on the product is ensured by a double action trigger which requires the operator to flick down a safety lock just below the trigger, before the firing trigger itself can be depressed.