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Tools
The first cordless tools had
brief run times, minimal power,
and long recharge times. But
lighter, smaller, and more powerful
lithium-ion tool batteries, coupled
with highly effi cient brushless
motors, made it possible to cut
the cord on almost any electrical
tool, including table saws and
compressors. Now these batteries
are even replacing the gas engines
on chainsaws and lawn mowers.
Self-leveling levels These
portable devices, which shoot fan-
shaped beams horizontally and
vertically, come in handy when installing
cabinets, laying tile, and framing. The
bright green laser lines on DeWalt’s
level can be seen at 100 feet. 12v Max
Cross Line Laser; dewalt.com
Chainsaws Tree-topplers with
lithium-ion batteries, like those made by
Ego, are lighter and quieter than gas-
powered models, but cut just as fast.
Power+ chainsaw with 18-inch bar;
egopowerplus.com
Table saws Hard to believe the
workhorse of so many job sites no
longer has to be tethered to a cord. This
18-volt version rips through 600 feet of
OSB on a single charge. M18 table saw;
milwaukeetool.com
“ The nice thing about
battery-powered tools:
no cords to get tangled,
hung up, cut, or
unplugged.” —TOM SILVA