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Top Ten Holiday Gift Tool Ideas

Home Improvement Published 11/30/2007 by Danny Lipford

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for the tool enthusiast on your shopping list, then look no further. We’ve got ten hot items that will brighten up their Christmas morning, no matter what your budget.

1. 

   AO Safety Worktunes Hearing Protector

   Now you can protect your hearing while working in the shop or cutting the grass and listen to the radio at the same time. These lightweight earmuffs reduce noise levels by 22 dB and provide up to 180 hours of AM/FM radio reception from two AA batteries. They are available at The Home Depot for under $50.

2. 

   Gorilla Gripper

   Carrying sheets of plywood or drywall just got a lot easier thanks to this innovative tool. Simply slip the rubber lined aluminum gripping pads over the edge of a sheet and lift with the padded handle. The Gorilla Gripper works on 3/8” to 1 1/8” thick material and is available online at Duluth Trading Company for under $50.

3. 

   Ryobi AIRgrip Laser Levels

   These laser levels from Ryobi use a small battery powered vacuum pump to firmly secure to most wall surfaces. They can be used both vertically and horizontally and come in several models priced from $20 to $70. AIRgrip laser levels are available at The Home Depot.

4. 

   Stanley FatMax Functional Utility Bar

   It’s a hammer, it’s a pry bar, it’s a nail puller. No, it’s Stanley’s award winning multipurpose tool! The jaws on the business end are made to grip 2” lumber while the shape of the weighted head allows it to be hung on your tool belt. The Stanley FatMax Fubar comes in 2½ and 4 pound models priced from $30 to $40. For an entertaining demonstration of the power of this tool go to stanleyfubar.com. The smaller version is available at Wal-Mart stores while the heavier “Xtreme” model can be found at The Home Depot.

5. 

   Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD

   This stud finder not only detects studs in walls up to 1½” deep, it also alerts you to the presence of hot electrical wires. Zircon StudSenor features an easy to read LCD display, SpotLite pointing system, and an audio alert signal. It is available at The Home Depot for around $20.

6. 

   Bessey VarioClippix Spring Clamp

   While regular spring clamps work great to hold items in place for gluing, their clamping range is usually limited. These unique clamps from Bessey solve that problem with an adjustable jaw that allows them to tackle projects up the 4” thick. They feature comfortable anti-slip handles and soft pads on the jaws to keep from marring delicate objects. VarioClippix clamps are available for around $5.

7. 

   Ryobi One+ Lithium Cordless Combo Kit

   Ryobi’s new line of 18 volt cordless tools features a lithium battery that gives twice the running time of previous versions. It also can hold a charge four times longer while weighing 20% less. The four piece lithium combo kit comes complete with a drill, circular saw, reciprocating saw, flashlight, lithium battery, charger, and carrying case. It is available at The Home Depot for $269.

8. 

   Husky Air Scout Compressor

   This portable compressor has a retractable handle and two large wheels to make it easy to move around. The 1.5 gallon air tank delivers 135 p.s.i. and comes complete with a 25’ hose and accessory kit. The Husky Air Scout is available at The Home Depot for under $100.

   If you’re feeling generous, consider the special holiday offering from The Home Depot: a Husky compressor complete with two nail guns for $179. The compressor combo (Model H1502CNK, Sku 955-051) is available in stores while supplies last.

9. 

   Duluth Kids’ Tool Combo Set

   This set of real tools will make the perfect gift for the budding carpenter on your list. Duluth’s set includes a hammer, level, two screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, clamp, and safety glasses all packed in a top quality nylon tool belt. Just the thing to help mom or dad out around the house.

10. 

    Personalized Cartoon

    For the tool guru who has it all, consider a personalized cartoon complete with the name of your favorite handyman (or woman) from the Cowboy Chuck Company. Choose from several framed home improvement designs that are perfect for hanging on the workshop wall. Your design can also be applied to a coffee mug, mouse pad, or note cards.