Olsa Tools 1/4" Metric Magnetic Socket Organizer

Olsa Tools Socket Holder

Just received my first item from Olsa Tools and it is great! High quality abs plastic by the feel. Surprisingly heavy. Magnet is super strong. Must order the 3/8 and 1/2 inch metric versions to completely organize my loose sockets in my box. Also comes in several colors and SAE for each drive size. Highly recommend!

Performance Tool W2082 Cordless Heat Gun

This is a lithium ion battery powered heat gun. It can also blow cool air almost immediately after blowing heat to cool a joint you just put heat shrink on. Great tool to have, especially when you are under a dash and don't have room for a heat gun and where you don't feel comfortable using flame. Low cost, $20-$30 depending where you look. The only drawback is that the battery doesn't last long enough to complete a big job on one charge and the charge time is too long. So at this price point... buy two.

Motivx Tools 3 Piece Universal Set

Here we have a set of spring loaded universal joint adapters. Part number MX1662-3 from Motivx Tools. Round about $20. Packaged very nicely. They are very, very handy. My biggest complaint of most universals is... they are too loose. These are perfect. Makes it so much easier to put in place when you have grease, oil, or coolant on your hands. A definite buy! We will try out more product from this company for sure.

Pittsburgh 1/4", 3/8" Drive Long Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Ok, so picked this up on impulse. $30 and does two sizes. The length and the thin heads is what made me buy it.

Pros:

Thin heads. 

Enough teeth for a decent range.

Length when combined with the thin heads allows it to be a decent ratcheting belt tensioner tool.

Con:

The reverse switch seems to move on it's own, even if it isn't hit by something. Proves to be irritating. 

Overall, the fact that I can use it as a ratcheting belt tensioner tool makes it worth it.

Power Torque GM6146 3/8" drive ratchet

Seen this tool while in one of my local auto parts stores. Decided to give it a go. Here's what I found.

Pros:

Very slim head to fit in tight places, especially with low profile sockets.

Switch isn't easily knocked back the other way.

Sturdy feel.

Cons:

Handle doesn't feel comfortable. 

Not enough teeth in the gear.

Needs to be a bit longer for better leverage.

Overall, for $20, it's worth adding to the drawer. For me, the clunkiness from the lack of teeth is the biggest drawback.

Sad day. Who's going to make Craftsman now?

Manufacturer of Craftsman Tools closing.

Sorry for just providing a link, but it's worth a read. Wasn't going to copy and past someone else's article. 

Talking tools.

  Brand new adventure. We here at the shop are always buying, talking about, and using new tools. We always compare them to old ones and to current ones from different makes. We aren't being paid by any of these companies. We use these everyday. Some seem to last forever, some break the first use, and others sit and collect dust, but are invaluable that one time a year they are used. We will review tools, offer links and news stories, along with trying to keep you all well informed. Welcome!