Black & Decker tools provide convenience and power

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Jan, 2008

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Whether you're handy or just love to have tools at hand, the VPX system from Black & Decker, Towson, Md., brings you the convenience you crave in versatile cordless products. The tools are sleek, lightweight, and ergonomically designed, yet are powerful enough for most common jobs around the house.

We love the feel of the Drill/Driver ($34.99). It is 45% smaller than Black & Decker's other 7.2 V drills, yet it has advanced features such as an eight-position clutch and two-speed transmission. It's compact enough to be used in tight spaces and can be stored in a drawer or toolbox. It has a keyless chuck and comes with a double-ended screwdriver bit tip and 5/32" drill bit.

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The Inflator ($29.99) makes short order of blowing up pool toys, and refilling bicycle tires and sports balls. The accessories--which store in the handle--include a valve adapter with pressure gauge for tires, a needle nozzle for balls, and a tapered nozzle for various rafts and floats. The kit also includes a Presta valve adapter for use on certain bicycle tires.

The AC/USB Power Source ($19.99) is ideal for charging wireless devices, cell phones, camera batteries, and MP3 players. It works by converting low voltage (direct current) electricity from a battery to 115 volt AC power. It's lightweight, comes in a soft, protective pouch, and is great for running small electronics.

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For quick clean-ups, the Hand Vac ($39.99) is always at the ready. Using cyclonic action, the vacuum has strong suction power and a two-part filtration system that can be rinsed when necessary to assure maximum power. The nozzle has a built-in crevice tool that extends for use. Two additional accessories, including an upholstery brush, are stored in the handle. The Hand Vac uses two VPX batteries, for 14 volts of power.

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The tools in the VPX system are powered by lithium-ion batteries which hold a longer charge and won't develop a memory, so you can recharge them after even a short use without negatively affecting their life. The 7-volt batteries are interchangeable over the VPX line, and are sold separately from the products. Multiple chargers can be daisy-chained, so you won't need to have one plugged into every outlet in your workshop. The battery and charger run $19.99 with one battery, $29.99 with two. Additional batteries can be purchased for $9.99. For more information, visit www.vpxsystem.com.

Another line from Black & Decker using a single-source battery system for all its cordless tools is the 18-Volt Fire Storm series. We appreciate the ease of use of the 6 1/2" Circular Saw with Laser ($79.97), especially when we need to make just one or two quick cuts. The simplicity of being able to pull out the saw and use it as opposed to having to bring everything to within a few feet of an outlet or unwind and set up a cumbersome extension cord, saves time and aggravation. For accuracy, the saw features an on-board adjustable laser guide, and has a 50 [degrees] bevel capacity for versatility in angle cuts. It operates at a speed of 4,100 rpm and comes with a 6 1/2" 18T circular saw blade.

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The Rotary Saw ($39.97) quickly and accurately cuts drywall, wood, acoustic tile, siding, plastics, and other materials. It uses standard 1/8" and 1/4" rotary bits, and includes a circle cutter attachment for making precise holes for recessed lighting cans and drywall patches, collett wrench, and vacuum hose adapter for easier cleanup.

The Area Work Light ($24.97) employs a powerful 13-watt fluorescent bulb to illuminate a large work area. Its pivoting head allows you to light up walls or ceilings, and it comes with an innovative support cord for suspension in nearly any orientation. The Area Work Light operates for up to two and a half hours on a single charge.

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The Pivoting Right Angle Drill/Driver ($39.97) allows for three head positions to offer accessibility in tight spaces, and extends in line for longer reach. There are 23 clutch settings, and it comes with four drill bits (3/16, 5/32, 1/8, and 3/32), and a Phillips and flathead screwdriver bit.

Like the VPX system, the interchangeable 18-Volt Fire Storm battery and charger are sold separately ($39.97). For more information, visit www.firestormtools.com.

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