Popular Woodworking 2000-06 № 115, страница 63

Popular Woodworking 2000-06 № 115, страница 63

TOOLSCOOP

Great-Value Jigsaw From Grizzly

When I picked up Grizzly's new model G8994 jigsaw, I had a sudden feeling of deja vu. It had been a while, but it was a very familiar and friendly remembrance. This jigsaw is very similar in function, features and feel to the jigsaw that put Bosch at the top of the jigsaw market. However this one costs only $59.95! This 5.2-amp tool features variable speed control up to 3,100 strokes per minute, a four-position orbital cut action, a built-in blower, an adjustable footplate and it uses Bosch-style bayonet blades, which are changed with a long screwdriver.

This is a sturdy saw that functions well (once you discard the blade that comes with the tool), and it will provide years of use for most woodworkers. While it doesn't offer the trendy feature of toolless blade change, this Grizzly tool is an amazing bargain for the performance and features you get. Our only regret is that it isn't available in a barrel-grip model — yet. For more information, circle #162 on the Resource Directory Coupon.

Performance: ••••O Value: •••••

Grizzly 800-523-4777 www.grizzly.com

New Accuset Air Gun Fires Both Brads and Staples

Continuing to add to its successful line of affordable air tools, Accuset has introduced a new dual-function brad nailer/stapler. The A2N125 ($129) fires 18-gauge brad nails ranging in length from 5/8" to 11/4", and 18-gauge V4" crown staples from V2" to 1" in length. The tool offers the standard Accuset features of a soft grip handle, quick-open fastener clip, exhaust at the rear and a window that lets you see when it's time to reload.

While this is a quality addition to the product line, Accuset's 2-in-1 tool suffers from the same difficulty as its competitors. If the air pressure in your compressor is left at the

same level used to drive staples, the steel driver leaves an oversized indentation in the wood when you switch to brads. If the air pressure is reduced to allow the brad to seat without leaving a mark, it will not fully drive a staple. While this problem is overcome easily by regulating air pressure, it's inconvenient. The first manufacturer to add depth-of-drive control to its combination nailer/stapler will be the clear winner. PW

For more information, circle #163 on , . the Resource Directory Coupon.

Performance: •••OO Value: •••OO

Accuset,888-222-8l44 or www.accuset.com

GREAT FINDS IN THE NEW GRIZZLY 2000 CATALOG

The new Grizzly Industrial catalog is chock full of bargains on reliable woodworking machinery, and we think you should take a look at what this mail-order company has to offer. Check out the 3 hp cabinet saw with a Biesemeyer clone fence for $775 on page 11, or the variable-speed jigsaw for $60 (shown at left).This 354-page catalog surprised us with what else Grizzly sells: welding rods, trammel points, stains, screws, router bits, knee pads, Japanese chisels, first aid kits, clamps, calipers and shop aprons. This is a comprehensive catalog, and that's before you get to the bargains on woodworking machinery. If you haven't received the Grizzly catalog, we suggest you give them a call at 800-523-4777, or visit the company's website at www.grizzly.com.

MAkiTA to introduce four new routers

Sometime before August, Makita plans to unveil four new routers. Two will have the traditional base with two handles, and two will have D-handles. Each style of router will be available with either a single-speed or variable-speed 11-amp motor. The single-speed models will operate at 24,000 rpm,and the variable speed models will operate between 8,000 and 24,000 rpm.The D-handle bases will have an on-the-handle switch, as well as a separate power switch on the motor.All models will offer a plunge depth from 0 to 23/i«", '/V' and 'A" collets and replaceable brushes.We expect to have some pre-production models to test soon, so look for a review in the August 2000 issue.

www.popwood.com 11