Spotlight on TOOLS

l|rOOLS are like automobiles, the I basic model will do the job. but most people want the one with the extra features.

A dealer who uses this philosophy to his advantage introduces new tools after the National Hardware Show with the ballyhoo of a new car dealer unveiling the latest models. He advertises "they're coming, they're here, they're wonderful," and invites everyone to see the marvelous new designs. He stages demonstrations and displays the new technology with showmanship. He makes certain no shopper leaves the store without hearing, seeing and having an opportunity to "test drive" the merchandise.

This year he has a wide selection of power and hand tools plus accessories to promote. Tool designers and manufacturers have outdone themselves, making tools easier to use, more powerful and better performing. The aisles of the National Hardware Show were jammed with innovative products. The following sampling gives you an idea of the exciting new merchandise available.

mission and a removable, one-hour rechargeable | 2v battery.

Other new cordless tools include a 9.6 volt jig saw to cut wood, metal and plastic. lt comes with a three hour charger. A cordless screw driver with a three position, forward/ reverse/off, switch and its own wallhanging charger base has LED lights to show that it is charging. This tool is rated for medium to heavv d-i-v jobs.

variable speed reversing drill. With a pistol grip, the drill can double as a screw driver. Models for both the do-it-yourselfer and the professional builder are available.

Cordless tools, especially popular with do-it-yourselfers, continue to proliferate. Offerings this year include a drywall screw driver with a positive clutch mechanism, a 9.6v motor and a mechanical 2-speed transmission. A new cordless hammer drill offers a high torque DC l2v motor, mechanical two-speed trans- through metal four times faster than a conventional drill bit and lasts up to seven times longer. Manufactured in three lines for do-it-yourselfers and industrial use, it is extremely accurate.

Other new cordless models are a glue gun center and a glue gun. Designed for hobbyists and do-ityourselfers, the two state-of-the-art products are both mobile and versatile.

Electronic variable speed control with feedback that maintains the selected speed during cutting are features of two new jig saws. They also have built-in blade storage compartments.

Built for professional woodworkers, a new one horsepower plunge router utilizes German engineering with features such as a precision micrometer type depth stop, a cam lock and safety handles.

A new wire wrench has been designed to eliminate the need for scaffold when installing wire. Using the tool, an installer can reach up and wrap wires around beams or bar ioists from floor level.

Propane or other high temperature fuels power a self-igniting torch which requires no matches or sparklighters. It's intended for brazing and soldering jobs.

Utilizing ultrasound, a range of sophisticated electonic measuring instruments are here for home and professional use. Useful for indoor and outdoor measuring, they feature a built-in calculator and multiple memories. Readings appear on a LCD display.

A carbide circular saw blade with a life expectancy 50 times longer than a steel blade also is new. In two sizes, the blade features 20 tungsten carbide teeth, a 5/8 inch round hole and a universal arbor.

A drill bit developed for use with cordless drills reportedly drills

Story at a Glance

How to use showmanship in merchandising tools latest developments in cordless and electronic products. . a sampling of National Hardware Show offerings.

A new 2-7/2" brad nailer is useful for finish and trim work as well as cabinet assembly. Lightweight and powerful, it has a nose designed to reduce damage to work surfaces.

Personal tools gain new meaning with a grip aid which can be custom molded to the user's hand. Utilizing a high friction material, the product improves the gripping surface, reduces strain and promotes safety.

Cordless Butane-gas-powered Tool

Self igniting with instant push button ignition, a cordless butanegas-powered tool resembling a large pen can be used as a soldering iron or hot air gun. The handle contains a three hour supply of fuel with a window gauge.

An aluminum magnetic level with a lifetime warranty holds fast to ferrous surfaces such as door jams. windows and steel studs.

Christmas packaging, while not a technological development, is a fresh approach to promoting tools as gift items. With the holiday season just ahead, it is appropriate to make note of it.