Black & Decker VPX Starter Set

Last week, we told you about Black & Decker's VPX Lithium-Ion Tools, their new line of affordable cordless tools. Now, we're going be highlighting the individual tools in the series to give you a closer look at what's available.

Because a lot of the tools in the line are available in tool only-format (no battery included), once you have a few batteries, you'll be able to pick and choose your tools in a relatively inexpensive manner. But, you have to get the batteries somewhere, so why not start collecting the line where Black & Decker advises, their VPX Starter Set.

The Starter Set comes with two 7-volt li-ion batteries and three tools; a power screwdriver, a cut saw, and a flashlight.

The two-speed screwdriver looks like a nice light-duty tool. With just 7-volts, you won't be driving 3" screw after 3" screw, but for fussing with door hinges and other odds and ends around the house it should be plenty of power. It has a quick change chuck and looks small enough to fit in some very tight spaces. The set comes with 10 drill/driver accessories, which we assume is the standard selection of bits and drills. It also comes with a case for the screwdriver (but not the other tools).
The cut saw uses jigsaw blades and looks to be perfect for 1xs, sheetrock, and other small cuts. It's sort of like a handheld Sawzall. We're curious how much control there is in the tool. If it's a significant amount and you can make the blade do exactly what you want when you want to do it, then it could be a great tool for cutting uneven scribes.
The flashlight is pretty souped up as far as flashlights go. It's got a pivoting head and the body of the light can be stood in three different positions. It has a little bungee on it that can wrap around a 2X4 or any similar sized object (which makes it perfect for a dark basement crawlspace), and it's got a belt loop for easy carrying. The light has three LED bulbs, so it should be fairly bright.

Overall, the kit looks well-rounded and it will likely be successful as we head into the holidays. For the occasional DIYer, it's a complete package of cordless tools and for the contractor, it definitely won't be the primary set of tools, but it might be a good grab and go pack for finishing off that punch list.

This kit sells for around $100, which is a steal, considering that the stand alone price for two batteries and a charger is about $55 ($20 for each battery and $15 for the charger), so that's three tools for $45. And remember, once you've got the batteries, you can pick up the other tools in the line for a 'battery free' price.

The tools should be in stores late October.

At Amazon.com

Read More in: Cordless | Lithium-Ion | Power Tools

Share this Article with others: