New to Market: Latest from AWFS 2023
Powermatic ArmorGlide coating, RZ Industries M3 dust mask, Harvey featherboard, Jet 1632 drum sander, HP-10 Festool Convertible PlaneThe AWFS woodworking fair happens every other summer in Las Vegas, alternating with Atlanta’s IWF, the industry’s other main manufacturing showcase. Here are a few of the best new tools and accessories unveiled at AWFS this past summer.
Powermatic goes rust-free
Powermatic is offering a durable new coating, called ArmorGlide, on the tables of its new bandsaws, table saws, and jointers. Impermeable to water, and use-tested for 250,000 milling cycles, it also reduces sliding friction by 50%, according to the company. It adds roughly 10% to the retail price of each machine. Go to Powermatic.com to learn more.
A much better dust mask
RZ Industries’ M3 model can be worn in three ways: with simple ear loops, a comfortable neck strap, or, for the best seal possible, a two-part head strap. The mask surpasses the HEPA standard while allowing better breathability and creating less fogging than its competitors, according to the manufacturer. Filters are replaceable, and snap easily into place. Go to RZMask.com for more info.
Smart featherboard from Harvey
These urethane roller guides work like a much better featherboard for bandsaws, table saws, and router tables, holding the work tight against the fence while allowing forward motion only, with very little resistance. They are also much easier to adjust for alignment and pressure. Go to HarveyWoodworking.com.
Jet drum sander is a smoother operator
Jet has added oscillation to its open-sided 1632 drum sander, making it an excellent option for small-shop woodworkers. The side-to-side motion produces a smoother finish with any given abrasive, and also helps to prevent the abrasive from loading and burning the wood. Learn about all of its features at JetTools.com.
Convertible plane from Bridge City
The HP-10 Foxtail Convertible Plane comes with a square blade and sole for use as a shoulder plane, with a finely adjustable fence and depth stop. What makes the plane “convertible” are optional blades and matching sole inserts for shaping coves and roundovers of various sizes. Buy it at BridgeCityTools.com.
Photos: Asa Christiana
More Tools and Materials
FW News 8/4/23 — The inside scoop from AWFSAll the latest in tools and accessories, a commendable donation program, and exclusive releases from the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas. |
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Tools to look out for this fallGrizzly Bear Roll Outfeed Roller System T32428, Milwaukee 2831-21 M18 Fuel track saw, Union Mfg. Co. replacement plane irons |
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Hand-tool buyer’s guideUse two decades of tool tests to compile your hand-tool kit, and you won’t go wrong. |
Comments
Festool plane? You mean bridge city ya?
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