The Right Tools for Any Do-It-Yourself Job
Home improvement projects, big or small, can be daunting -- especially if you don't have a properly equipped tool box.
As part of "The Early Show" series "Early Essentials," Carter Oosterhouse, host of HGTV's "Carter Can" and the Veterans Day special "Change the World: American Heroes," showcased some of what he says are the newest and best items you should have in your toolbox.
Whether you're a pro refurbishing your kitchen or a weekend warrior hanging a few pictures, the right tools make all the difference in the world. But what's beyond the hammer and screwdriver in home improvement tech?
Oosterhouse shared these fun, practical gadgets on Thursday's broadcast:
(The following product descriptions were prepared using assertions provided by the manufacturers)
Stanley 2-in-1 Mobile Work Center - $32.97
The Stanley 2-in-1 Rolling Work center has two storage solutions in one and includes an extra large toolbox. This work center has large, heavy duty nickel-plated metal latches and a middle carousel that offers extensive small part storage. The size is made to conveniently fit into a car trunk or back seat. The product can be separated into a large bin and a tool box. Large truck wheels enable smooth, easy mobility. Front pocket for storage of extension cord or other cables. Two transparent lid organizers.
Strait-Line Sonic Laser Tape Measurer - $19.99
This is a handy tool for estimating paint, wallpaper, flooring, tiles and other goods based on an area or volume measurement. It measures to the nearest whole inch up to 50 feet, so it's not the tool for the trim carpenter, but a painter will wonder how he ever got along without it. It's simple as pie: Just position the base against a flat surface, point at the distance target and press the button. It calculates both area and volume for you and even stores five measurements, so you can just slip it into your pocket when you head to the paint store. We think it'll be indispensable to the carpet and flooring estimator, painters and interior decorators.
Zircon StudSensor i65 OneStep - $29.97
Zircon's StudSensor i65 OneStep quickly and easily locates the edges and center of wood and metal studs and joists behind walls, floors and ceilings. Patented CenterVision technology finds the center of studs in a single pass. Its easy-to-read display screen indicates directions, edges and center of studs, while WireWarning detection indicates the presence of live AC voltage. FEATURES: Stud Scan mode locates the edges and center of wood or metal studs up to 3/4-Inch deep -- DeepScan mode doubles the scanning depth to 1 1/2-Inch -- LCD display indicates direction, edges and center of studs. And it automatically corrects common user errors, such as when scanning begins over a stud.
RYOBI AIRGRIP Compact Laser Level - $19.99
It's the smallest laser level in the market, Exclusive non-marring vacuum base, mounts to virtually any surface using AIRGrip. Does not require the use of pins, tape, or tacks to mount. Compact laser level perfect for aligning pictures, shelving, and other single wall applications. AIRGrip vacuum base attaches to most surfaces without tape or pins.
Stanley Multi-Bit Ratchet Screwdriver - $10.88
Three-position switch enables clockwise, counterclockwise, and locked ratcheting positions. Includes 10 bits and bit storage system. Handle Storage quick and easy access to bits. Magnetic bit holder for speedy and secure changeover of bits. Maximum torque and minimum effort achieved with ergonomic, textured-finish handle. Plated for corrosion resistance.
Crescent Rapid Slide 8" Wrench - $13.97
The Crescent Rapid Slide adjustable wrench from Cooper Tools helps get jobs done quickly and easily. The slide control in the handle provides smooth, fast and accurate jaw adjustment, and the debris shield over the slide mechanism helps protect the tool and prolong its life for smooth operation. The big 1-inch jaw capacity gives you maximum versatility for a wide variety of applications, whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or an industrial professional.
Ryobi Tek4 4V Noise Suppression Headphones - $69.97
Ryobi Introduces the Tek4 Audio Plus Noise Suppression Headphones powered the by Tek4 4V Lithium-Ion battery technology. This tool offers a number of advanced features such as: Electronic Noise Suppression to automatically reduce harmful impulses, Speech Amplification Technology to enhance close range conversations, Voice Memo recording function that links your memo to your photo, Auxiliary input for iPod and MP3 capability, and weather resistant for tough conditions. These Audio Plus Noise Suppression Headphones from Tek4 Innovation are the perfect tool for those who want to carry on conversations or listen to music while protecting their hearing.
Milwaukee 12V Digital Inspection Camera - $249.00
With advanced digital imaging technology and a 2.4" high-resolution color LCD display, the Digital Inspection Camera provides a crystal clear picture of tough to reach places such as inside pipes, drains and equipment and behind walls. Optimal image quality and control is achieved via an exclusive Image Zoom (2x) feature and LED brightness control. Equipped with a durable, detachable, 3' water-tight flexible cable and a small camera head, the Digital Inspection Camera fits through holes as small a 3/4" and gets into, under and around tight spaces. An ergonomic handle, comfortable in any orientation, features up-front power and image controls for true one-handed operation. A power saving, auto shut-off feature preserves battery life,