Power Tools


Ramset vs Hilti: Which Powder-Actuated Tool Is Best for Concrete Fastening?

After 30+ years working with powder-actuated tools and concrete fastening systems, I’ve sold and serviced nearly every brand—and moved millions of pins and loads.

If you’re deciding between Ramset vs Hilti, this guide breaks down what actually matters: cost, durability, and real jobsite performance.  Please note:  I am not painting Ramset as an inferior brand by any means.  Ramset simply offers more entry level or low user options compared to Hilti.  I would put a contractor grade Ramset that you would buy from an industrial supplier up against a Hilti with great confidence.

Ramset: Best for Homeowners and Light-Duty Jobs

Why Choose Ramset?

  • Lower cost powder-actuated tools
  • Easy to use for beginners
  • Ideal for occasional concrete fastening
  • Available at big box stores and online readily

Best Use Cases

  • Attaching wood to concrete
  • Basement framing projects
  • Garage or workshop builds
  • Light-duty masonry fastening

Real-World Insight

Ramset tools you find online and at big box stores are more than capable for the tasks most homeowners will perform. The most common issue is using size pin or the wrong powder load—not tool failure.

Ramset HD22
.22 Caliber Hammer Drive

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.22 Caliber Hammer Drive

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.22 Trigger Single Shot

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.22 Trigger Single Shot

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.27 Semi Automatic

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.27 Semi Automatic

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Real-World Insight

Ramset tools you find online and at big box stores are more than capable for the tasks most homeowners will perform. The most common issue is using size pin or the wrong powder load—not tool failure.

Hilti & Commercial Grade Ramset: Best for Commercial Concrete Fastening

Why Choose Hilti?

  • Built for daily, high-volume use
  • Extremely durable construction
  • Consistent fastening performance
  • Trusted by professional contractors

Hilti DX-2

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Hilti DX-2

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Ramset Cobra (Contractor Grade)

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Ramset Cobra (Contractor Grade)

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Best Use Cases

  • Commercial framing
  • Steel-to-concrete fastening
  • High-volume construction sites
  • Industrial applications

Real-World Insight

Hilti tools excel under constant use. While they can be used for DIY, the cost is often hard to justify unless you’re doing frequent or heavy-duty work. The same is true of true commercial grade tools from Ramset.

Ramset vs Hilti Comparison

Feature Ramset Hilti
Price Affordable Premium
Durability Moderate to High Extremely High
Ease of Use Beginner-Friendly Professional-Grade
Best For Homeowners, DIY Projects Contractors, Daily Use
Performance Great for Occasional Use Best for Continuous Use

Choose Ramset if:

  • You’re a homeowner or DIYer
  • You need a tool for occasional use
  • You want a lower-cost option

Choose Hilti if:

  • You’re a contractor
  • You use the tool daily
  • You need long-term durability and consistency

Pro Tip: What Matters More Than the Brand

Load selection and pins selection is critical.

Using the wrong power level or pin can cause misfires, overdriven fasteners, or weak holds. This is the most common mistake across both brands.

Conclusion

If you’re doing light-duty or occasional concrete fastening, Ramset is a cost-effective and reliable choice. View a video on the basic Ramset HD22.  Or learn a little more about the Ramset Mastershot.   Again, please note Ramset does have a line of commercial grade tools available through industrial supply channels.

If you’re working in commercial construction or using the tool daily, Hilti delivers superior durability and long-term performance.  One 

Ramset vs Hilti: Bottom Line

Homeowners: Go with Ramset.

Contractors: Invest in Hilti or commercial grade Ramset.

Power users: Contractor-grade Ramset can bridge the gap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hilti better than Ramset?

Hilti tools are more durable and built for daily commercial use, while Ramset tools are more affordable and ideal for homeowners and occasional projects.

What is the best powder-actuated tool for concrete?

For most homeowners, Ramset is the best choice due to cost and ease of use. For contractors or heavy-duty applications, Hilti provides better long-term performance and durability.

Can homeowners use Hilti powder-actuated tools?

Yes, homeowners can use Hilti tools, but the higher cost usually isn’t justified unless you have frequent or demanding fastening projects.

Why do powder-actuated tools fail?

Most failures are caused by using the wrong powder load strength rather than the tool itself. Proper load selection is critical.

Is a Ramset strong enough for basement framing?

Yes, Ramset tools are more than strong enough for typical basement framing and light-duty concrete fastening applications.



 

Using The Ramset Master Shot Tool For Framing Your Basement

Ok, so you want to frame your basement and you want to use a powder actuated tool like a Hilti or Ramset tool.  What kind of tool should you get, how much will it cost and how in the world do I use it?  Well here is a little guidance for you.  One of the more popular tools for a homeowner to use for framing is the Ramset Mastershot tool.  You will also find the same tool marketed by ITW Brands.  This is a good tool for getting your a basement project.  If you are going to do this for a living, spend more on a true contractor grade tool with readily available replacement parts.   The Ramset Mastershot will handle your basement project just fine.  So what do you need?

What You Need To Use The Ramset Mastershot Tool

First the tool of coarse.  Expect to pay around $100 or so on Amazon for the Ramset Mastershot Tool.  The nail you want to use for fastening 2x material to concrete is a 2-1/2″ nail.  A nail with a washer will increase the bearing area on the 2x but not required.  What is required for mounting treated lumber is a nail that is compatible with treated lumber.  Use a Ramset part number 1516SDE (with washer) or a Ramset 1516E.  Both have a coating (Ramguard) for use with treated lumber.  If you are going to mount a 2x to a steel beam, I would recommend the Ramset SP178 pin. It does not have a coating so don’t use it with treated 2x material.  You will need powder loads or charges as well.  The theory is use the lightest power load needed to sink the fastener.  The loads are numbered and color coded as follows:  Power Level 3 GREEN, Power Level 4 YELLOW and Power Level 5 RED.  These are the most common loads.  You will likely use yellow, but it is a good idea to start low and work high.  Red may be needed shooting to steel.  These are all .22 caliber.

Ramset Mastershot

Ramset .22 caliber loads charges

Ramset Loads

Ramset Nails For 2x

Nails For Ramset

Firing The Tool

Firing is simple.  I recommend watching the video as it will show you all the steps in the correct order.  First with you safety gear on, safety glasses and hearing protection, load the nail into the end of the tool.  Now select your charge, starting again with a lower level.  Place the tool against the work surface at a right angle (you can’t toenail with the tool!) press the tool down and then pull the trigger.  Pull out the front barrel and repeat the process.  Pin first, load second.

SAFETY FIRST!

Safety when using any powder actuated tool including the Ramset Mastershot tool is a priority.  You should go to Ramset.com and take a simple test for certification.  You will definitely want safety glasses and hearing protection.  Consider the work environment as well.  Make sure there are no flammable fuels in the area and everyone knows what you are doing.  The tool is a gun that shoots nails into concrete and it sounds like one.  Please take the time to visit the site and get certification.


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This post will hopefully help you decide  if a core drilling machine is a tool that you should add to your arsenal.  There are a few different types and sizes of core drilling machines.  We are going to take a look at hand held units but the principles will apply to any size core drilling machine you may be considering.  When you need to diamond core a hole in masonry material, you have a a couple of choices.  You core it yourself or you hire it out.  While there are some benefits to hiring it out, you may find in your case, that you may come out ahead, way ahead by owning even a very basic hand held core drilling machine.  Let’s take a look at a very affordable unit from Blue Rock Tools as an example.

Blue Rock Hand Held Diamond Core Machine

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Blue Rock Hand Held Core Machine

The Blue Rock Tool hand held core drill machine, model number 4Z-1, is a great example of a low cost unit.  As with most hand held units it is meant to hand diamond cores up to 4″.  If you need bigger holes, you really need to look at a drill rig that either bolts to the concrete with anchors or uses a suction device.  The 4Z-1 uses industry standard 1-1/4″ thread diamond core bits and has a water attachment.  It has two speeds, 2100 RPM and 950 RPM.  A built in safety clutch protects you and the machine if you bind up the core.  A couple of little things I thought were cool were the removable shoulder stock and the bubble level on the side of the unit to keep you hole level.  Reviews really are pretty good for the tool.  Most agree it’s well worth the price. But the real point of featuring this core drill machine is to show drilling your own core holes can really save you money in a couple of ways.

Saving Money By Coring Your Own Holes

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So can you save money coring your own holes?  Yes!  Considering having a couple of core holes drilled would likely cost you a couple hundred bucks or more.  If you can drill 5 or 6 hole in a month or two, the unit is paid for.  If you need a bunch of holes cored, you will likely be able to get a better price per hole, however, often times, you only need 2 or 3 holes.  The second thing to keep in mind is if you are coring your own holes, you can do it now rather than setting up with another contractor and working with their schedule.  I think this actually gets to be one of the biggest plusses of having your own core drilling machine.  Now I am sure that if you are a core hole drilling contractor you can make some great arguments as to why you should hire them out instead of doing it yourself.  As matter of fact if you are a diamond coring contractor, you may be steaming right now.  In fairness, let’s take a look at a few reasons you may hire a professional at  times.

Benefits Of Hiring Out Your Core Drilling

One  instance where you would really benefit from a pro is drilling in post tension concrete.  Post tension concrete has cables embedded in the concrete under tension and if you hit one, you have big problems.  A pro can X-ray the slab to find the cables and drill safely.  Another advantage is if the diamond core bit gets damaged for any reason, it’s their bit not yours!   Good quality diamond bits are spendy.  A pro also has the ability to core some pretty big holes with their drill coring machines.  I have seen some huge bits on the job!  A coring contractor will also have more than one unit so if they have an equipment issue, they know how to keep the job moving.  And I don’t care how smart you are, a pro will know more about diamond coring.  You just can’t beat experience.

Final Thoughts On Buying A Core Drill Machine

So there are a few things for you to think about if you are looking at a core drilling machine.  Consider how often you could use it and if you can pay it off on a couple of jobs it may be worth it.  Consider the hole sizes you drill, how many you drill on a job and what type of application you have.  Don’t hesitate to use a pro.  They know what they are doing and it may be a better fit for you.  Or, get a core drill machine for smaller easy jobs and set up with a reliable pro and you will have all your bases covered.


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A drill impact combo kit is a versatile powerhouse that every DIY enthusiast and professional tradesperson should consider adding to their toolbox. Combining a cordless drill and an impact driver, these kits provide the essential tools needed for a wide range of tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws with precision and ease. With numerous options available on the market, choosing the right combo kit can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll help you navigate the choices by presenting some of the best drill impact combo kits that cater to various needs and budgets.  Why do you need a combo of the the two tools?  In a nut shell, the impact is best at installing and removing fasteners.  The drill is better at doing just that, drilling.  Some of the drill are hammer drill which may be of use for Tapcon screws and other masonry applications.  Once you have them both, it will be very clear why you want both!

DEWALT DCK240C2 20V MAX Combo Kit

Dewalt impact combo

DEWALT DCK240C2 20V MAX Combo Kit

DEWALT is a trusted name in the world of power tools, and their DCK240C2 combo kit lives up to their reputation. This 20V MAX combo kit includes a drill/driver and an impact driver, both featuring compact and lightweight designs. The drill offers two-speed settings for versatility, while the impact driver delivers impressive torque for driving screws and fasteners effortlessly. The kit comes with two lithium-ion batteries and a charger, ensuring you’re always powered up for your projects.

Makita XT269M 18V LXT Combo Kit

Makita XT269M

DEWALT DCK240C2 20V MAX Combo Kit

Makita is another well-respected brand known for its quality tools, and the XT269M combo kit doesn’t disappoint. This 18V LXT kit includes a hammer drill/driver and an impact driver, both powered by Makita’s efficient brushless motor technology. The brushless motors offer longer runtime, increased power, and longer tool life. With the included rapid charger and two 4.0Ah batteries, you’ll spend less time waiting for your tools to charge and more time working.

Milwaukee 2997-22 M18 Combo Kit

Milwaukee 2997-22 M18 Combo Kit

Milwaukee 2997-22 M18 Combo Kit

Milwaukee’s M18 combo kit, model 2997-22, is designed for professionals who demand top-tier performance. It features an M18 FUEL hammer drill and an M18 FUEL impact driver, both equipped with brushless motors for maximum efficiency. These tools are built to tackle even the toughest tasks with ease. The kit includes two high-capacity 5.0Ah batteries, ensuring extended runtime, as well as a rapid charger and a sturdy carrying case.

Bosch GXL18V-240B22 Combo Kit

BOSCH GXL18V-240B22 18V 2-Tool Combo Kit

BOSCH GXL18V-240B22 18V

The Bosch GXL18V-240B22 combo kit is an excellent choice for those seeking quality and reliability without breaking the bank. This kit includes a 18V drill/driver and a 18V impact driver, both designed for efficient performance and comfortable handling. The tools are backed by Bosch’s Electronic Cell Protection technology, which protects the batteries from overload, overheating, and deep discharge. The kit comes with two 2.0Ah lithium-ion batteries and a charger.

Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ Combo Kit

Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ Combo Kit

For budget-conscious DIYers who still want a reliable combo kit, the Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ kit is a solid choice. This kit includes a drill/driver and an impact driver, both compatible with Ryobi’s ONE+ system, which means you can use the batteries with other ONE+ tools. While not as powerful as some of the higher-end models, this combo kit provides decent performance for most common tasks. It comes with two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger.

Choosing the Right Combo Kit

So, which is the right tool.  I really don’t think you can go wrong with any of the tools.  The biggest consideration in my opinion is what I have for tools now.  You will see that is the first consideration listed below.  If you have a blank slate so to speak, check out the breadth of each tools cordless line up and see if of them offers a must have tool.  So, consider the following factors:

  1. Battery Platform: If you already own tools from a specific brand that uses a common battery platform, it may be wise to stick with that brand for compatibility.
  2. Power and Performance: Evaluate the tools’ power and performance based on your intended applications. Professionals may require more powerful models, while DIYers may find value in budget-friendly options.
  3. Ergonomics and Comfort: Comfortable grip and ergonomic design can significantly impact your work experience, especially during extended use.
  4. Included Accessories: Assess the kit’s contents, such as the number and capacity of batteries, charger quality, and any additional features like LED lights or belt clips.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality drill impact combo kit can greatly enhance your efficiency and productivity, whether you’re working on DIY projects or professional construction tasks. The choices listed above offer various features and price points, allowing you to find the best combo kit that suits your specific needs and budget. Remember to consider factors like battery platform, power, ergonomics, and included accessories to make an informed decision. With the right combo kit in your hands, you’ll be ready to tackle any drilling or driving challenge that comes your way.


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The Bosch GDX 18V EC  impact driver is a great choice for an 18V impact driver.  I want to share a few features of the tool that are unique to Bosch, one in particular that I really like that simply isn’t on  any other 18V impact drivers.

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My Favorite Feature The Bosch GDX 18V EC Impact Driver

Usually I like to save what I think is best until last but I want you to consider what I think is one of the standout features of the Bosch GDX 18V EC, the 2 in 1 bit socket driver.  While most impact drivers use a ¼” hex chuck for nut setters, the Bosch has a ¼” chuck socket for that but it also accepts ½” sockets.  This is currently the only impact on the market that does both.  So what does that mean to you?  That means you can use the ¼” drive nut setters that most of us have laying around, usually ¼”, 5/16”, 7/16” & 3/8”.  It also means you now can use your standard ½” drive sockets from your ratchet set.  That includes all the sizes, standard and metric, standard and deep sockets, swivels and extensions.  You can do all of this without having to use an adapter.   One real problem with socket adapters is that you still have a very thin shank on the ¼” shank so with larger bits, adapters can easily snap.  And I don’t know about you but where did I put my adapter.   That is why I think the 2 in 1 chuck of the Bosch GDX18V is the most important feature.

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Specifications For The Bosch GDX18V EC

Ok, so here is the technical information from Bosch that shows that the tool isn’t just a clever idea, it’s built to work.  First off, what does the EC stand for?  EC stands for electronically controlled brushless motor.  While brushless motors have been the norm for some time now on impact drivers, it’s nice to know you have the power and speed.    As for power, you are looking at 1,800 inch pounds of torque.  I have never played with the feature but if you want you can download the app and fine tune the tool.  The chart below covers the specifications of the tool.  Please note that there is also versions of the tool that are Bluetooth enabled if you are interested.  These will have “connected” in the name.  A separate module must be purchased separately.  I can live without the Bluetooth.

Specifications
  • Lithium Ion Battery Powered
  • 1/4″ Hex + 1/2″ Square Drive
  • Height in 8.2″
  • Length in  5.8″
  • No Load RPM  0-1,100 / 0-2,300 / 0-3,400
  • Forward & Reverse
  • Torque 1,800 (in. lbs.)
  • Variable Speed
  • Weight 2.6lb
  • Width in               3.0″
  • Works With Bosch Bluetooth® Connectivity Module GC42

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Check Current Price On Amazon

What Is Included With The Bosch GDX18V EC Tool

The GDX18V EC is available in several configurations including a bare tool that just has the tool, a few bits and a belt clip.  From there you can find it with different capacity batteries, all 18V chargers and a case as well as a few nice combo kits.  To make the tool even more valuable, the tool has a 5 year warranty on the tool and the batteries and chargers have a 3 year warranty.  You will need to register the tools with Bosch but that is super easy and well worth it.

If you are looking for an 18V impact driver, the Bosch GDX18V EC deserves at least a look.  If you already have Bosch 18V tools, it’s a no brainer.  If you don’t, well, maybe a nice little combo kit with impact driver will make you a died in the wool Bosch fan.

Bosch GDX18V EC

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The BOSCH GNB18V-12K14 18V concrete nailer is Bosch’s entry into the direct fastening market.  The tool is designed to fasten to concrete and steel using an air spring design.  Battery concrete nailers are somewhat new.  Hilit was one of the first followed by DeWalt and now Bosch.  Battery powered concrete nailers require no fuel cell or powder charges so there are instances where this will be the tool of choice.

Bosch concrete nailer

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Bosch GNB18V Specs And Capacities

Bosch GNB18V Concrete nailer

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See Video On Amazon

The BOSCH GNB18V tool weighs in at 9 pounds and is just under 16” long and about 5-1/2” wide. The included magazine can handle up to 22 nails in lengths from ½” up to 1-1/2”. An optional 44 nail magazine is available for the tool. One thing unique to the Bosch battery concrete nailer is that you can take off the magazine and shoot single shot nails that you would typically shoot in powder actuated tools. Think of ceiling clips, EMT clips, studs and more. The tool uses an 18V lithium battery. Any of the current Bosch 18v batteries will slip into the concrete nailer but an 8.0 mah is recommended and included in the kit. Smaller mah batteries will run the tool and you will save weight but sacrifice run time. Bosch has nails for both concrete and steel applications. The NB series is for concrete and the NM series is for metal and are packed in boxes of 1,000.

What’s Included In The Kit

The Bosch battery nailer, part #GNB18V-12K14 is comes with the tool, 22 nail magazine, single shot nosepiece, 8.0 mah 18V lithium battery, charger, utility hook and case.  If you already have a collection of Bosch 18V batteries and chargers, you can buy the tool bare, part #GNB18V-12N.  The bare tool does not include the battery, charger or case.

Applications For The BOSCH GNB18V Tool

Probably the most common application for battery powered concrete nailers is drywall track to concrete.  It is also a good choice for shooting to concrete block as you don’t have the blowout issues you have with powder actuated tools.   As mentioned above, switching to the single shot nosepiece allows you to shoot single shot PAT pins including ceiling clips, EMT assemblies, tie wrap mounts, studs and more.  This really opens up the uses for the tool.  The Bosch BOSCH GNB18V-12K14 is a nice entry for Bosch into the direct fastening market.  See current price on Amazon.


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Are factory refurbished Milwaukee Tools a good deal?  Let’s take a quick at what a refurbished or renewed Milwaukee tool (or any other brand for that matter) is and what you can expect when you buy one.  As you are searching you may want to use the term “renewed”, “refurbished” or “reconditioned” as they can be listed different ways.

What Is Refurbished Tool?

When Milwaukee, Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, Metabo or any major tool manufacture offers a refurbished tool, the logical question is where did the tool come from?  In these days of ecommerce and easy returns, many of these tools are purchased and then returned without even being used.  Most tool manufactures have a 30 day no questions asked return policy so, a customer may try the tool and just not like the feel or want something with more power or whatever.  Some tools will fail right out of the box.  Usually it something simple like a bad solder joint on the motor or switch or a battery may have become damaged in shipping.  It can even be something like the tool is missing a component that was supposed to come with the tool.  At that point, the tool is not new and the manufacture will run through the tool, clean it up and refresh the packaging and offer it as refurbished.

Refurbished Milwaukee Tools

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What Kind Of Condition Are Refurbished Milwaukee Tools In?

I have about 5 different refurbished tools in my collection.  Most of them are Bosch.  Every refurbished tool that I have bought looked brand new.  Maybe they had a scuff or two but really they were in excellent shape.  Sometimes they will have a brand like an “R” on them to signify that they are a reconditioned tool.  When you consider that you intend to put the tool to work, any minor blemishes will soon be covered by new ones.

Do Refurbished Tools Have A Warranty?

Yes!  Reconditioned or renewed tools for the most part have a full 1 year warranty.  Most new tools have a three year warranty but you will need to register the tool to qualify for that.  Rest assured these tools are put through the paces by the manufacture during the refurbishing process.  There is now way Milwaukee or any other tool manufacture wants a sub-standard tool floating around out there ruining their reputation in a very competitive market.

In My Opinion

In my opinion, refurbished power tools are definitely worth checking out.  Often times you can step up from a big box brand tool to a brand name like Milwaukee, Bosch, DeWalt, Makita or Metabo for just a little more.  I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the quality of reconditioned tools.  As I mentioned earlier, most of my collection is refurbished and I haven’t had a single issue.



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Here is a review of the HITBOX UW-AT2000J arc welder.  Is this tiny little inexpensive stick welder worth having?  For many this HITBOX is just what the doctor ordered.  Let’s take a look at some of the key features of the unit and see if the UW-AT200J it is a tool you should make a little room for in your shop.

The HITBOX UW-AT2000J Arc Welder Is Tiny

Speaking of making a little room: the first thing that struck me about this particular welder is how small it is.  I am not a big welder, I actually don’t care to weld but when you need to weld, you need to weld!  Growing up my dad’s stick welder was the size of a mini fridge.  The HITBOX UW-AT2000J is the more like the size of a small lunch cooler.  It has a foot print of about 4.5” x 9” and is about 17” tall.  Weight comes in at under 7 pounds.  So yes it is a small welder but can it really weld?  First, check out some basic features of the welder.

HITBOX UW-AT2000J Arc Welder

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Features Of The Welder

The HITBOX UW-AT2000J is dual voltage, 110V/220V.  It does a nice job with both 7018 and 6013 welding rods.  I remember my first welding experience trying to strike an arc.  I really struggled.  This little welder is designed with the beginner in mind as it is easy to strike your arc and the stable voltage and hot start feature aids with that as well.  It’s a safe little unit featuring overload and overcurrent protection.

What Is The Welder Good For?

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See Reviews On Amazon

So what market is the HITBOX UW-AT2000J welder going after?  Well it’s not an all day long industrial welder. That is a totally different market.  In my opinion this little welder has a home in many shops.  If you are just starting out doing some metal craft work, this welder is a great way to start.  If you are new welder, it will be some time before your skills will outperform the welder.  Basic repair is another reason why you may like this little HITBOX welder.  For instance, let’s say you break a bracket on your lawnmower deck.  To hire an onsite welder won’t be cheap.  The cost will likely be more than the welder!  You may have a buddy who has a welder.  So now you take your deck off, load it in your trunk, drive it over to your buddies, have him weld it up, put it back in your trunk, drive home and bolt it back on.  Welding in place in this instance is obviously a better option.  Use it once or twice and this welder will have paid for itself.

Don’t Forget

Don’t forget when you buy your welder to buy a good helmet.  Do yourself a favor and make sure you get a auto-darkening helmet.  You may find an old style helmet laying around but an auto-darkening helmet is the way to go and there really are some inexpensive ones out there that will get the job done.



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Makita makes so many tools it’s hard to keep up with them all.  Did you know they make a robot vacuum?  Well they do.  So if you always wanted a Roomba type vacuum and you already have Makita tools and batteries, you may want to check out the Makita Robot Vacuum.  Below is a brief rundown of the tool Makita DRC200Z Robot vacuum including run times and capacities

Makita DRC200Z Robot Vacuum

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Makita Robot Vacuum Run Times & Capacities

What always amazes me about modern cordless tools is how long they run on a charge.  When I was young, anything that ran on batteries did so for about 10-15 minutes at best.  This Makita DRC200Z boasts up to 200 minutes of continues run time in the main brush vacuum mode.  Over three hours!  That means it can cover over 5,300 square feet.  The vacuum is made for mostly commercial applications so think of factory, warehouse, showrooms and retail environments.  Most office settings have low pile industrial carpet so that would be a space you could use the unit as well.  The three stage cleaning system is designed for efficiency with a main brush and two side brushes that make an 18” pass.  It also features a large 5/8 gallon collection bin so it can get lots of debris and particles on its mission.

What’s In The Box

The Makita DRC200Z robot vacuum comes as a bare tool.  That means you will need to supply two batteries as well as the charger.  Included in the box you will find the vacuum, remote control, and a filter.  It also includes boundary tape if you want to keep your robot out of certain areas.  Again, please note batteries and the charger are not included.


Is The Makita DRC200Z For You?

So, is the Makita Robot vacuum for you?  Well that’s up to you to decide.  If you use it for the intended environment, hard surface commercial and retail environments, this robot could be a handy little addition to your work force.  Keep in mind no batteries or charger is included and it is a machine not a human.  I have to share a funny question I saw on a review site.  Someone asked “does it climb stairs?”  I hope they were kidding!  If not, well the Makita DRC200Z may be not be a good choice for them.  Check out the video below for more info.


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Hilti is known for their quality powder actuated tools (PAT).  The Hilti DX2 is a great all around tool that will fit the bill for most homeowners and contractors.  If you are familiar with the Hilti DX350 and appreciate what a real workhorse that tool was, you will love the DX2.  This review will give you a brief overview of the tool and help you find a good deal on the tool.  You typically won’t find the Hilti DX2 in a big box store.  Hilti really gears there business towards contractors.  First let’s take a look at the tool and then take a look at how buy one.

The Hilti DX2 Gun

Without getting into a bunch of details, let’s take a look at what most users would use the tool for.  The most common application for PAT tools is fastening wood to concrete.  2x material to concrete to be specific.  There are more trade specific applications but for the homeowner and small contractor, fastening 2×4’s to concrete is the main use.  FYI, PAT tools including the Hilti DX2 does a great job of fastening 2x material to I-beams and columns as well.    The DX2 is a .27 caliber strip tool.  Of course Hilti would prefer you use their loads but the .27 caliber strip loads you find in big box store fit the tool.  The tool does not have power adjustment.  To adjust power, you use different color loads.  Start with green, then move to yellow and finally red until you are setting the nail completely.  As for nail size it will handle a 2-1/2” pin with a washer which is perfect for 2×4’s to concrete.

Where Can You Buy A Hilti DX2?

So if you can’t get a DX2 in the big box store, where can you buy one?  You may be surprised but Ebay really can be a good place to find them used and even new.  I would have no problem buying a used Hilti DX2 online from a reputable seller.  You need be a little caution though as some sellers just list tools without even knowing what they are or if they work or not.  They may say they work or are in good working order but l have seen more than one PAT that is claimed to be in good working order when it is obviously missing the front of the tool.   Check the picture and make sure it is a reputable seller that will stand behind the tool.  If the tool comes with some pins and loads that’s a plus.  If the tool comes with an extra drive piston, that’s a nice plus as well.   You can buy the tool from Hilti and if you do a bunch of shooting, they will likely cut you a better deal.  For most of us, we can get a used tool that will serve us for many years at a good price on Ebay.

Hilti DX2 Wrap Up

So there you have it.  If you are looking for a quality PAT that is built for everyday use consider the Hilti DX2.  Buying one used is a great way to buy a true contractor grade tool that will outlast many of the lower quality tools you may find at the big box stores.

Right Now on eBay Hilti DX2 Tools On Ebay
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