Products

Master Magnetics has released a flexible Magnetic ToolMat™ designed to hold tools, parts and nuts/bolts. However, it also adheres to ferrous metal surfaces regardless of shape or orientation—like under a car suspended on an overhead lift. It’s this unique feature that initially caught our eye.

The ability to adhere to metal surfaces is just one of the benefits of the Magnetic ToolMat. The mat comes in three different sizes to better match the working surface. The largest is 19.5’’ x 8.85’’, the one in the middle is 18’’ x 6.5’’ and the smallest is 12.5’’ x 6.75’’ and each size is only .25’’ thick. Each size also features reinforced grommets and a sewn-in handle, adding to its portability and uses. This product has virtually endless applications, since it is made of durable synthetic leather to resist rips, grease, oil and other common shop chemicals.

It’s the product picture that piqued our curiosity and when the sample products arrived at the office we had to check it out ourself. We immediately opened one of the boxes and hung it on a cement wall with a metal electrical conduit. Not only did the Magnetic ToolMat firmly grab hold of the conduit, it also held a 16-ounce claw hammer. After a successful quick trial, we immediately got it into the hands of our testers for their review.

Similar to WD-40, our testers used the mats on a host of different applications and the automobile and marine uses stood out. Our mechanic tester raved about having quick access to tools next to his working area, which saved time and reduced the number of times he had to bend down. Our marine tester noted how the mat securely held different nuts/bolts and eliminated the potential of falling overboard. He also went on to describe how he attached a line through the grommet holes to retrieve a tool he had previously dropped overboard. While not intended for “magnet fishing”—yes that’s a thing—it saved him from replacing his ratchet.

The Magnetic ToolMat is a great product for the pro or DIYer with so many uses. It also makes a great stocking stuffer for the upcoming holiday season.

Click here to see the product video. Go to www.magnetsource.com for more information.

WD-40® is not only one of the best-known brands in the hardware channel, but in the world. WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be found in eight out of 10 American households and more than 176 countries and territories worldwide. Capitalizing on the iconic blue and yellow can with a red top, WD-40 is updating its Specialist® line packaging.

Initially launched in 2011, the Specialist line is geared toward trade professionals and features lubricants, penetrants, greases, cleaners and degreasers. The line has been further expanded throughout the years for numerous uses. Water Resistant Silicone Lubricant, Protective White Lithium Grease and Rust Release Penetrant Spray are all widely used by pros.

We had the opportunity to test the Penetrant with Flexible Straw and Gel Lube of the Specialist line. Penetrant is designed to penetrate deep into crevices and threads and seems to break the rust bond that holds stuck parts together. Additionally, the Penetrant leaves a layer of protection to keep rust and corrosion from coming back. The Flexible Straw is a perfect feature for this product and provides access to hard-to-reach places sometimes referred to as a knucklebuster. Click here to see the Penetrant with Flexible Straw in action.

The Gel Lube is a thick gel lubricant that provides long-lasting lubrication and won’t run or drip. It provides similar benefits as WD-40 Multi-Use including moisture displacement and water resistance. It has also has been independently tested to prevent runs for up to one year in a salt spray and humidity chamber. Since the gel stays where sprayed, it is perfect for vertical surfaces and does not fling when applied to moving parts. Click here to view a demonstration of WD-40 Specialist Gel Lube.

Our testers used the Penetrant and Gel Lube in a host of applications including automobile, marine, locks and hinges. All testers reported Penetrant with Flexible Straw performed exactly as described and the flexible straw allowed for uses where a traditional straw just cannot reach. The Gel Lube received the most comments, which centered around its ability to not run or drip. One tester commented she always hated spraying interior door hinges, since traditional lubricant runs and may stain the door and/or floor. One tester referenced confined spaces where your head is near so the spray inevitably gets on your face.

If you currently do not carry the line or are searching for additional products to attract customers, take a hard look at the Specialist line in the new cans. For more information, go to www.WD40.com/specialist.

FeatherLITE^® Garden Hose is designed to solve the most basic and common problem with a garden hose—kinking.

This strong and durable hose is made in the U.S.A with an exclusive polymer compound that is lighter than traditional PVC.

Offers innovative Smart Hose® technology that uses a two-part process to reduce kinks. Exclusive spinning male coupling allows the hose to unwind itself during hose setup, while exclusive inner tube incorporates an internal rod and two inner fins that run the length of the hose. These interior components work to prevent twisting and kinking as well as maintaining a continuous flow of water through the hose.

Features a Guard-N-Grip 2.0 Connector that allows for a secure, leak-proof connection to any faucet without use of a wrench.

Flexon Industries
www.flexonhose.com
800-327-4673

The first battery-powered garden pruner of its kind on the U.S. market features ergonomic design for maximum comfort and control, rubber grips to minimize vibration, toolless bar and chain replacement, retractable chain guard and trigger switch lockout to prevent activation until depressed.

LED display makes it easy to know how much battery is left, while the AS 2 battery offers a long run time.

The 4-inch guide bar offers toolless removability and is designed to allow users the ability for precision cutting and pruning, and its size makes it possible to get to those hard-to-reach spots.

The ¼ PM3 saw chain allows users to make smooth cuts with low vibration.

STIHL
www.stihlusa.com
800-467-8445

• New professional line of wood coatings is specifically developed for contractors, builders and wood shops and will be sold through independent dealers.
• The line will feature advanced water-based spray finishes as well as traditional pre-catalyzed lacquers, conversion varnishes and sealers.
• “We are taking our extensive understanding of wood coatings and offering a pro-focused program that applicators will appreciate for its ease of application, time savings and value,” says Robert Reints, director of operations at Old Masters. “Our professional line will be easily identifiable with branding exclusive to its products and supported by its own website that will showcase the product and offer reference material, technical data and an FAQ section.”
• Old Masters has launched an exclusive water-based, single-component finish that offers an alternative to traditional pre-cat lacquers and conversion varnishes. Apex HPP Interior WaterBased Clear Finish sprays extremely well, delivers superior chemical and wear resistance, and offers quick dry times. Water-based products like Apex HPP meet many of the requirements in areas where VOCs are a concern, one important factor in selecting products for in-field application.
• MultiLac™ Pre-Catalyzed Lacquer offers superior performance to standard nitro-cellulose lacquers without having to add catalyst. VersiVar™ Conversion Varnish features self-sealing technology that eliminates the need for a separate sealer. Integra™ Vinyl Sealer offers superior performance to standard nitro-cellulose sealers without having to add catalyst as would be necessary with post-catalyzed sealers.

Old Masters
www.myoldmasters.com

• Want to feed the birds without worrying about what seed goes in what feeder? Then the Bountiful Bowl™ feeder is for you! Its compact, adjustable size lets you offer a wide variety of tasty meals for your feathered friends without a lot of work.
• It comes with an adjustable dome cover that can be raised or lowered to prevent larger birds and squirrels from getting to the seeds as well as help protect the food from rain or snow.
• The Bountiful Bowl™ Feeder is yet another great starter feeder, because it is the easiest Cole’s feeder to fill and hang. It holds virtually any seed or suet product. Get a lot of birds without a lot of thought.
• The tray diameter is 8-½” and the dome diameter is 12”.

Cole’s Wild Bird
www.coleswildbird.com

• Compatible with the GSR18V-535FC 18V Flexiclick^® Chameleon drill/driver, the Bosch GFA18-H Rotary Hammer Attachment seamlessly transforms the already multifaceted tool into an SDS-plus^® rotary hammer.
• The Chameleon all-in-one drill/driver system comprises four pro-grade attachments including the GFA18-H and is high torque and connected ready. The fifth component of the 5-in-1 system is its built-in 1/4-inch hex bit holder.
• The new SDS-plus Rotary Hammer Attachment expands the capabilities of the 18V Chameleon, pushing the envelope on the versatility Bosch can pack into a single tool. This attachment helps users drill into tough materials with unparalleled power and accuracy.
• With the GFA18-H attached, the 18V Flexiclick® delivers a robust 0.74 Ft.-Lbs. of impact energy (EPTA) and a 3/8 In. maximum drilling capacity into concrete. It features a no-load bpm of 0 to 5,400, providing professional performance in masonry-drilling applications, and comes with a removable side handle and depth gauge to increase tool control.
• The 18V Flexiclick^® is connected ready for greater feature customization. Bluetooth^® connectivity can be activated using the optional GCY42 Connectivity Tool Module (sold separately). The system is also equipped with an efficient EC Brushless motor that produces up to 535 In.-Lbs. of torque; KickBack Control; and a 20+1 precision clutch. The GFA18-H attachment joins the system’s existing pro-grade attachments that include a right-angle chuck, offset hex bit holder and 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck.

Robert Bosch Tool Corp.
www.boschtools.com

• Mayhew Steel Products introduces fixed Torx^® Screwdrivers. The screwdrivers, made in the USA, are precision machined for exact fit and maximum grip of Torx screws.
• Each set comes in a sturdy pouch that keeps the screwdrivers organized, secure and easily accessible.
• The acetate handles are durable and provide a comfortable and secure grip.
• The high-quality Torx Screwdrivers are available in five convenient sets and backed by a lifetime warranty.
• Torx screws have become popular in the automotive, industrial and construction markets because of their ability to be tamper resistant and allow for higher torque without a camout effect.

Mayhew Tools
www.mayhew.com

Flitz is a 40-year-old, family-run company producing high-quality polishes, cleaners and protectants for numerous categories. A recent trend in the car care industry is the launch of car sealants versus traditional waxes. 

So you may be asking “what is the difference between a sealant and wax?” While both products are designed to offer protection against the elements, a typical wax contains carnauba wax occurring in nature while sealants are designed in the laboratory. Carnauba wax has been the industry standard for decades and provides a layer of protection and gloss to any paint job. It is normally applied as either a paste or thick liquid. Since a sealant is an engineered product it provides a higher level of protection, while carnauba wax will evaporate on hot paint surfaces over time. Click here for a more detailed explanation and illustration.

Flitz introduced the Flitz Sealant, a ceramic-style coating that can be applied at home and lasts almost one year. Traditional ceramic coating is expensive and normally applied by a professional in a controlled environment over a couple of days. Since Flitz is a sprayed application it can also be applied to numerous surfaces including paint, fiberglass, plastic trim and glass. The product is simply sprayed on and then immediately wiped off. The surface is left with a high-quality shine and protected with minimal effort. 

The flexibility and ease of application is what stood out to our testers. Beyond the traditional automobile, motorcycle and RV markets, the Flitz polish can also be used inside. One tester used the sealant on shower glass to reduce streaking with outstanding results. 

While carnauba wax has its specific purposes, these engineered coats are the future for their extended protection, multiple surface application and ease of use. If your store offers traditional waxes then take a look at the Flitz Sealant for superior results with half the effort.

Flitz
https://www.flitz.com/flitz-sealant/

SureCan builds upon its innovative portable gas dispensing system and launches the Utility Transfer Tank and Utility SureCan with Spigot. The Utility Can dispenses all non-fuel based liquids including vehicle coolant, DEF, windshield wiper fluid, water and so much more. The Utility Can uses the same high-quality six-layer wall construction, tested up to 60 PSI, and is airtight.

The Utility SureCan with Spigot replaces the blue spout with a spigot primarily for the dispensing of water. The addition of the spigot creates a simple and easy way to dispense water handsfree after turning on the spigot. Since the Utility Can uses gravity to dispense the fluid there is no need to add air pressure or any parts that may fail in the future. The can is also constructed using BPA free materials, so it’s 100 percent safe for drinking water.

We received our test products in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and state shutdown orders. With an emphasis on handwashing and a shortage of hand sanitizer, the Utility SureCan with Spigot was extremely popular with all our testers. The Utility Can creates a portable easy-to-use hand washing station. With a capacity of either 2 or 5 gallons, the Utility Can easily handles a day’s worth of hand washing. Click here to view the Utility SureCan with Spigot in action.

The Utility Can is not only a portable handwashing station but a perfect solution when clean freshwater is needed for utility or drinking. The applications are almost endless from pets, camping and other outdoor activities. One of our testers liked the easy functionality when they used the Utility Can to water their plants. With all of the possible applications, the Utility Transfer Tank and Utility SureCan with Spigot go well beyond a portable handwashing station.

SureCan
www.surecanusa.com