It's a busy time for those of us in the woodworking industry. Wood shows are going on almost every weekend all across our country and that means lots of flying for this editor. I spent most of October out west and had a great time speaking with many readers of CWHI magazine and this eNewletter. I was happy to hear all the praise (and some criticisms) of our new look and every comment and suggestion was appreciated.

After a weekend at home, I'm off to the airport again. This time I fly to Moncton, NB for the Moncton Woodworking Show where I hope to meet even more readers. My last stop this year will be Ottawa, ON for the Ottawa Woodworking Show. This show is my favourite because I'm only a 40 minute drive from the show. I will host two seminars per day (both on hand planes) at both shows and I will have my Q&A booth there to talk woodworking and answer questions. I look forward to seeing everyone there.

We have another jam-packed eNewsletter for you this month with lots of new products and some intriguing news involving Stanley and Black and Decker. Also, a review on a neat woodworking app for your iTouch/iPhone that you'll no doubt love. Don't forget to check out our December/January 2010 issue for some great gift ideas you can build for someone special this year. . .and to all you woodworking elves. . . it's never too early to start making gifts.

Work safe . . . work proud.

Vic Tesolin
Editor, CWHI Magazine

Black and Decker Announce Smart Select Technology

Black and Decker have recently come out with power tools that feature their new Smart Select Technology. In the case of the Jigsaw JS680V you can use the dial on the side of the tool to automatically set the optimal orbit and speed for the type of cut you're making or material you're working with. This model also features a special light to illuminate your cut line when used with the included marker. The JS680V has many of the features that you would expect from any jigsaw including: adjustable foot angle, on-board blade storage and variable speed. The model may be a bit light weight for the contractor but would make an excellent saw for a home owner/ DIYer. For more information, check out blackanddecker.com.

Forrest Takes Saw Blade to New Heights

Forrest Manufacturing has taken its award-winning general-purpose table, panel and circular saw blade to a superior level of performance.  The new 1048 Woodworker II has more teeth and a higher bevel than the original 40-tooth Woodworker II, making it exceptionally good for cross-cutting everything from soft woods to plywood veneers. The new 48-tooth Woodworker II has the same 20-degree face hook as the original 40-tooth Woodworker II for an easy feed, but the points of the teeth have a 25- degree bevel rather than a 15-degree bevel.  Sharper points allow the blade to cleanly slice through wood fibers as it cuts across the grain and to operate quietly and with less vibration.
The new Woodworker II is especially suited for manufacturing picture frames or other products that require hundreds of cross-grain cuts.  But the new blade, like the original Woodworker II, also produces smooth rips without side scoring or splintering, making it a good choice for woodworkers needing an all-purpose combination blade.

Bosch Introduces a New 3/8" Corded Drill

When it comes to simplicity, reliability and value, there is no substitute for a high quality corded drill. The new 1006VSR 3/8” Drill from Bosch Power Tools & Accessories delivers everything a great corded drill should and does it in a lighter, more ergonomic and more powerful package.
While the tough 6.3 Amp motor performs in even the most demanding applications, the variable-speed, two-finger trigger enables users to manage that power with authority. With the ability to dial in speed from 0-2,600 RPM, the result is precise control and incredible versatility.
Although the 1006VSR is a leader in the power department, users will also appreciate the tool’s light weight. At only 3.4 lbs, Bosch’s 1006VSR offers the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. The light weight, great balance, two-finger switch and a newly re-designed soft grip handle all add up to create a drill that offers users all-day comfort.
The 1006VSR features a 3/8” keyless chuck for quick and easy accessory changes and a recessed lock-on switch to prevent accidental lock-on. A durable belt clip frees up hands for other tasks. Inside the tool, upgraded components offer outstanding durability and reliability.
The Bosch 1006VSR 3/8” Corded Drill will be available through authorized dealers nationwide this fall. To find out more, users may visit www.boschtools.com or call 877-BOSCH-99.

New Premium Sandpaper from Gator

Introducing the new Gator Ultra Power Premium Series sandpaper with Black Zirconium. Gator Ultra Power Premium Series sandpaper products can be used for hand sanding but are designed to handle hardworking power sanders delivering professional results every time on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, fiberglass and painted surfaces.
Gator Ultra Power sandpaper also features heavy weight paper for the sandpaper discs and sheets and heavy duty cloth for the belts, increasing sandpaper strength and longevity. The glues also are top-of-the-line phenolic resins to ensure sandpaper integrity, and the discs and sheets have a special no-load coating that reduces material loading so you don’t have to change paper as often.
Gator Ultra Power Premium Series sandpaper with Black Zirconium is available at Home Centers and Hardware Stores, and comes in 3” x 18”, 3” x 21”, 2-1/2” x 14” and 6” x 48” belts; PSA or Hook & Loop for 5” orbital sanders; 8”, 9” and 12” discs for stationary belt/disc sanders and in hook & loop for the Mouse Detail Sander™, Mega Mouse Detail Sander™, and the Porter Cable® Profile Detail Sander. It is also available in 1/2, 1/3 and 1 /4 Sheets for hand or power sanding with clamps.

New Hinge Jig for 8' Doors

Trend Routing Technology has introduced a new hinge jig for 8’ doors that employs all of the benefits of their standard Trend Hinge Jig. The Trend hinge jig is manufactured out of heavy duty phenolic. It is simple to assemble as it contains: three easy to assemble phenolic parts and four adjustable hinge apertures for doors that are 8’ in length.  The set also includes a Tungsten Carbide tipped 15/32” straight bit with 1/4” shank, four bradawls, a T-Handle hex key, euro style and screw-on guide bushings and full instructions neatly packaged in a shoulder sling carrying case. The Trend 8’ Hinge Jig accommodates hinges from 2-3/4” to 5-1/2” in length and 3/8” to 1-3/8” in width and it is simple to affix the jig to the door utilizing the bradawls supplied. The sale price on the Trend part #H/JIG/8FT is $275.20.
For a complete door hanging solution, the Trend 8’ Hinge jig is designed to be used in conjunction with the Trend Door Stand and Trend Door Clamp. For further information on the use of the Trend 8’ Hinge Jig, please go to www.trend-usa.com .

DeWalt Launches Line of Lithium Ion Tools

DeWALT, a leading manufacturer of industrial power tools and accessories, launches a line of compact lithium ion power tools.

The small, lightweight design of these tools is ideal for cabinetmakers, HVAC professionals as well as electrical, mechanical and general contractors who perform overhead drilling and fastening applications.  The compact lithium ion battery (DC9181) charges in 30 minutes and is compatible with the existing system of DeWALT 18V power tools, providing users with more options to pick the right battery for the job.

The compact lithium ion battery is built with DeWALT-designed electronics that promote cycle life and cell protection.  As a result, the new compact lithium ion battery is rated at 1,000 recharges.  To check out more information, visit DeWalt's website.

New Flexible Expandible Roller Stand

Now available from General International the new model 50-166 Flexible Expandable Roller Stand.
Like adding an extra pair of hands in the shop; the new model 50-166 adjustable height expandable roller system is ideal for support of large, awkward or cumbersome stock, for in-feed or out-feed assist applications. Ideal for use in wood shop applications with sheet goods on table saws or for longer or wider stock with planers or drum sanders, the 50-166 features four lockable 4-inch swivel casters and adjustable height legs from 23 to 36-inches, with large-grip locking knobs, for easy levelling on uneven surfaces.
The model 50-166 roller stand can expand to a maximum length of 50 inches and can be compacted to a minimum length of 14-3/4 inches for easy storage.
With a maximum rated load capacity of 100 lbs the 50-166 features nine heavy-duty 1-1/2 inch diameter by 13-3/4 inch wide nickel plated rollers, and multiple roller stands can be linked together, conveyor style, for longer feeding or material handling requirements.
The 50-166 M1 is currently retailing for $189.99 and can be ordered from most General/General International retail distributors – a complete list of distributors can be found on their website at general.ca

Bosch Introduces New Hybrid Laser

Bosch Measuring Tools has unveiled the next evolution in layout laser tools. Bosch’s new GTL3 hybrid line laser is designed to move past what was possible with the traditional laser square and become the perfect companion for anyone laying out tile flooring or wall coverings. 
The most visible new innovation is the ability to project 45° layout lines. The addition of 45° line capability enables users to align layouts at 0°, 45°, 90° and 135° from a single set up. The feature also allows users to keep track of straight-line and diagonal alignments simultaneously, dramatically improving precision and productivity. The GTL3 has a maximum range of 65 feet and is accurate to within 1/16-in at 20-ft.
The next significant enhancement is the design of the unit itself. Bosch’s GTL3 is significantly taller than typical laser tile squares – with good reason. By raising the laser lines from the floor or wall surface, Bosch was able to design a layout tool that projects clear, sharp and precise laser lines over obstructions on the floor or wall and on all types of surfaces regardless of the texture of the material being laid out.
Bosch also re-aligned the three laser lines to converge at a point in front of the base of the laser unit. By moving this merging position away from the unit, the laser beams are raised from the work surface and can project without interference from grout or anything else that may make the surface uneven.
Other innovations that greatly increase jobsite productivity include a steel positioning plate that allows secure attachment to work surfaces for accurate material placement.  Heavy-duty magnets located on the base of the GTL3 provide secure and adjustable attachment on the positioning plate or other ferrous-metal surfaces.  The tool’s sturdy outer casing is both water and dust resistant to ensure years of dependable operation. Check out the Bosch website for more information.