It’s time again to review the Milwaukee Packout Modular Storage System. Since the introduction of the Packout system in 2017 with 8 different pieces, the storage and tool box team over at Milwaukee Tool has been working seemingly non-stop to add an additional 38 products to the storage and organization system. The Foundation Milwaukee constructs Read more
ProStaff Reviews
It’s time again to review the Milwaukee Packout Modular Storage System. Since the introduction of the Packout system in 2017 with 8 different pieces, the storage and tool box team over at Milwaukee Tool has been working seemingly non-stop to add an additional 38 products to the storage and organization system.
The Foundation
Milwaukee constructs the Packout system boxes from impact resistant polymer. Our introduction was the foundation of the system appropriately named the Rolling Tool Box
With an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance this wheeled box stores medium size tools like a recipe saw, circular saw or rotary hammer drills. This was the box that set the foundation for expansion into items like lights, vacuums, additional parts organizers and more.
Integration
Packout is way more than a couple tool boxes and organizers. The whole system is designed around it’s unique, intuitive quick attachment mechanism. This system allows the stacking and interlocking of one tool box, light, lunchbox cooler, radio, vacuum (and more) to to one another.
Its this plumber’s opinion that the latching/stacking/locking system is what first attracted trades workers, hobbyist and business owners alike to the system initially.
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Expansion
The continued popularity of the system can be attributed to new product expansion in the Packout line. With no clear end in sight, we have seen the addition of the Rolling Tool Chest, XL Tool Box, 2 & 3 drawer boxes most recently.
You may have seen the tour of my plumbing van outfitted in Packout on our Youtube channel, if not check it out here: Plumbing Van Tour
Possibilities are Endless
Packout enthusiasts have taken to the CNC and 3D printers to produce countless modifications for the system BUT lets not forget that the possible configurations built in to this system from the design and engineering dept at Milwaukee Tool are a huge part of its continued success.
My most used, most relied on boxes are the parts organizers boxes. In each size offering I am using them to store and transport copper & steel pipe fittings, electrical supplies, valves, screws & fasteners and more. For me the Deep Organizer and original Organizer are the heroes in which I depend on daily.
Bottom Line
As you take a look at some of my videos and pics posted over the last few years you’ll see I’m all-in on the Milwaukee Packout System. I’ve bee asked countless times to compare to the Dewalt or RIDGID offerings of similar boxes and that’s a tough one but its obviously important so I’ll just come out and say it, no BS, the Packout system is the best for durability, diverse offering and overall usability across multiple trade professions.
RIDGID’s offering is very limited and is only available thru the Home Depot. Dewalt has switched product lines completely, more than once without continuity across product lines. This is frustrating for those already invested in one system and not able to integrate new products into their arsenal.
While the Packout system may cost more than others I truly believe its worth the additional monies. This opinion was formed over time, after breaking competitor boxes in the extreme cold weather I encounter each winter and after working with these boxes literally every day on the job.
What I like most about the system is the extreme durability and modular adaptability from my van to the shop to the job. Not a single box, bin, latch or lid has let me down for functionality. That to me is saying a lot, I’ve spent many hundreds of dollars (okay, thousands actually) investing in this system, its made me more organized and that improves my daily life.
Social Postings
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https://youtu.be/hsdKCXF3KHI Mechanical Hub friend and voice of Beyond the Service video series, John Thompson from Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter reviews a Milwaukee Tool 200’ Pipeline Inspection Reel, which is part of the Milwaukee Tool Modular Pipeline Inspection System. Featuring a 34 mm 1080p HD self-leveling camera head, and the ability to digitally zoom up Read more
Mechanical Hub friend and voice of Beyond the Service video series, John Thompson from Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter reviews a Milwaukee Tool 200’ Pipeline Inspection Reel, which is part of the Milwaukee Tool Modular Pipeline Inspection System. Featuring a 34 mm 1080p HD self-leveling camera head, and the ability to digitally zoom up to 4X and optimize light output inside of pipes, technicians can now see more in drain lines than ever before. The sewer line camera has a telescoping handle and wide wheelbase making transportation on and off the job easier than ever. The 200’ Pipeline Inspection Reel comes equipped with small and medium camera skids as well as a camera head sleeve to center and protect the camera while inside pipes.
For more information visit: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Sewer-and-Drain-Maintenance/Pipeline-Inspection-Tools
Be sure to follow us and the Thompson team! https://www.instagram.com/mechanicalhub/ https://www.instagram.com/plumbing_perspective/ https://www.instagram.com/beyondtheservice/ https://www.instagram.com/thompsonfamilyplumbing/
https://youtu.be/Il6vlVrsmQA Milwaukee has added to the FORCE Logic family with the addition of the M18 Press Tool w/ ONE-Key 2922-20. The standard size press tool is available now as a kit and bare tool. The M18 FORCE Logic press tool w/ ONE-Key is compatible with over 20 fitting systems. Typically called a “ProPress” tool [a Read more
Milwaukee has added to the FORCE Logic family with the addition of the M18 Press Tool w/ ONE-Key 2922-20.
The standard size press tool is available now as a kit and bare tool. The M18 FORCE Logic press tool w/ ONE-Key is compatible with over 20 fitting systems.
Typically called a “ProPress” tool [a brand or trademarked name owned by Viega] the M18 is fully capable of pressing up to 4″ copper pipe and iron pipe fittings of various manufacturers.
In the video above Eric Aune shows the new press tool next to its brushless predecessor, the 2773-20 M18 FORCE Logic press tool.
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When approached by Greenlee to test a new product late last year, we knew it was the perfect opportunity to work with a couple of our favorite electrical contractors, Adam Sperry and Jon Block. Jon and Adam have been friends of The Hub for several years and bring a ton of electrical experience and knowledge Read more
When approached by Greenlee to test a new product late last year, we knew it was the perfect opportunity to work with a couple of our favorite electrical contractors, Adam Sperry and Jon Block.
Jon and Adam have been friends of The Hub for several years and bring a ton of electrical experience and knowledge to our sites. We connected them with Greenlee and after a few projects over a couple months, they share their experience with the Greenlee GSB Series Step Bits.
Jon Block reviews Greenlee GSB Series Step Bits
First off, the step bits are ideal for advanced hole making solution and feature an improved split-point tip for even faster penetration and a patented split-step design to optimize chip load for a faster and smooth cutting experience while achieving more holes per charge.
“These are perfect for making holes in conduit and steel junction boxes as well as enclosures for conduit knockouts or enlarging holes to accommodate larger conduit openings,” said Jon Block, LH Block Electric.
“There’s no reservations in using these bits, Greenlee has a long history in the trade of high-quality products. I’m sure Jon and I both look for a product that is priced appropriate to the results attained and Greenlee is a brand I trust and believe in due to their quality products,” Sperry shared.
Both agreed that the progressive cutting edges on the bits provided balanced aggression to maximize torque efficiency and minimize stalling when using a cordless drill.
Additionally, an improved double flute design provides enhanced chip evacuation, while also increasing cutting speed and bit life. Laser markings on the bits allow for easy part and size identification.
The GSB Series Step Bits for mild steel are offered in two sets, available in 10 Imperial-sized step bits ranging from 1/8-inch to 1-3/8-inch, and three Metric-sized step bits ranging from 4mm to 32.5mm.
Adam’s Final Assessment:
- “These bits are the fastest, smoothest, most durable bits I have used and have performed beyond expectations even when subjected to less-than-ideal conditions.”
- “Personally, I see step bits as a “consumable” item, which I feel is contrary to popular opinion. Most people feel as though the price associated with quality step bits somehow means they should last forever. I disagree. There are a lot of situations where the drilling is less than ideal, or the driller is less than adequately trained which can lead to more wear and tear on a bit. I also prefer the bits to NOT have the quick connect shaft or be impact rated.”
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Jon’s Final Assessment:
- ” I love the double flute design and the marked with common conduit knockout sizes and long-life durability.”
- “The split step and the longer step for the common conduit hole sizes makes this a great tool for quick knockouts instead of grabbing a hydraulic knockout set. Greenlee tools are the best in the electrical contracting business.”
- Facebook Product Video
Professionals interested in the GSB Step Bits can visit Greenlee.com/StepBits to learn more information. To request a hands-on tool demonstration from a Greenlee Pro Tool Specialist, visit Greenlee.com/requestdemonstration. For more information on Greenlee, visit Greenlee.com.
ProStaff Reviewers:
Adam got his start in the electrical industry 20+ years ago from his father who was an electrical distributor general manager. Adam has always been keen on working with his hands and takes an extreme satisfaction in watching a project come together from start to finish. One of the keys he brings to our ProStaff is his ability to share whatever tools, insights, tips, tricks, and lessons that have helped him in his career. You can find him on social media at:
- Instagram – completelycordless
- YouTube – Completelycordless
Jon, after serving his apprenticeship and acquiring his Chicago Supervising Electrician License, Jon joined his family at LH Block Electric in 1998. Jon brings a unique and extreme work ethic and his many new innovative ideas to the company and currently serves as the job superintendent and chief estimator. He is also a certified electrical inspector and loves teaching the trade in the classroom and in the field. Jon can be found on Facebook at:
- Facebook – LH Block Electric
LENOX LXHT90551 10” V-Jaw Quick Adjust Pliers LENOX® Tools sent some new pliers and wrenches to Mechanical Hub a couple months ago. As always, we choose to use the tools we review on real job sites, in real life situations so we can report back to you. Whether we pay for a tool or product Read more
LENOX LXHT90551 10” V-Jaw Quick Adjust Pliers
LENOX® Tools sent some new pliers and wrenches to Mechanical Hub a couple months ago. As always, we choose to use the tools we review on real job sites, in real life situations so we can report back to you. Whether we pay for a tool or product or it is gifted to us, you will always get honest information that we hope will aid you in decision making when scouting out new tools. LENOX® is not new to hand tools or pipe wrenches, making these all updated designs worth a look. The following is a summary of our use of the 10” V-Jaw Quick-Adjust Pliers over three months of daily use.
Handles
If you read my review of the 10” Pliers Wrench or have used pliers with a cushioned grip, then you know the significance of this handle type and how it will benefit you over time and under high force. It’s not surprising LENOX chose this handle type as it is a favorite throughout the plumbing industry.
Jaws
The v-jaw geometry is one that grips, period. This is a proven jaw design that is meant to grip multiple shapes and sizes of materials. Performance on iron pipe, probably the most common material these pliers will work with, is reliable and exceptional. The v-jaw also allows the user to grip hex surfaces easily, although the aggressive teeth will mar softer metals like bras or finished surfaces like chrome so be aware.
Finish
The industrial chrome finish makes these pliers corrosion resistant which is an absolute must for plumbing and heating work. I also found that cleaning the pliers of pipe dirt was not difficult, I’d attribute that to the chrome finish as well.
Conclusion
If you’re like me and use pump pliers every day, I’d recommend giving the LENOX® 10” V-Jaw Adjust Pliers a try. The value when compared to higher price imported or domestic competitors is high. The quick-adjust feature is an absolute slam dunk in making these some of the nicest pliers I have used in my long career as a plumbing and heating contractor.
MSRP:
Availability: Now
