Machinery Tools Cool Tool Innovations for the Mechanic These tools represent innovative advances for the farm mechanic. By Dave Mowitz Dave Mowitz In 1982 Dave came to Successful Farming as a senior editor first covering agronomic topics and then machinery. He went on to serve the nation's farmers as executive editor of Successful Farming Magazine and editor of the Ageless Iron Almanac, a bimonthly publication covering the hobby of agricultural collectibles. Dave recently retired from the Successful Farming family but continues to serve the organization as a contributing editor. Successful Farming's Editorial Guidelines Published on November 21, 2019 Close Photo: Milwaukee Model 2688-20 Cordless Heat Gun The only cordless heat gun on the market, Milwaukee's model 2688-20 reaches operational temperature 30% faster than corded guns. The heat gun's operating temperature is 875°F., which is directed through a guarded nozzle. The tool's Redlithium XC5.0 battery delivers more than 40 heat shrink connections on one charge. The 2688-20 (tool only) retails for $119. Go to milwaukeetool.com. Knipex Needle-Nose Pliers 11-Inch-Long Needle-Nose Pliers Offering 11 inches of reach, the Extra Long Needle Nose Pliers from Knipex are designed to provide a 1¼-inch-wide gripping capacity. The tool's gripping ability is enhanced with multiple gripping zones on the jaws including a serrated area for holding onto round parts or pipes. Workpieces can be grabbed, held, and guided with the four grooves found in the jaws. The pliers are forged from oil-hardened and tempered German tool steel topped off with a nonslip plastic coating. They are available in models with straight and 45° angled jaws. The straight-jaw version retails for $45. Go to knipex-tools.com. DeWalt 20V Max Angle Grinder Angle Grinder Stops on a Dime DeWalt's 20V MAX angle grinder features a brake that brings the wheel to a stop in 2 seconds when the trigger is released, an E-Clutch that automatically shuts down the motor when a wheel pinch is detected, and a Kickback Brake incorporating both of these features. The tool's One-Touch Guard allows single-action adjustments to change guard position. The model DCG413R2 retails for $349, including a battery and charger. Go to dewalt.com. Mayhew ProGrip line Mechanic's Hook and Pick Set The ProGrip line comprises over 30 unique hooks and picks in 11 different sets designed for an array of applications. All of the Mayhew tools consist of alloy steel shanks with black oxide finish to deter rust. The shanks are enclosed in a highly resilient thermoplastic elastomer soft grip. The four-piece model 13094 set shown above retails for $51 to $55. Go to mayhew.com. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit