Robert Robillard
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tool reviews, Tool testing, construction news, new products, best practices in the construction industry, woodworking, DIY projects, How-To Projects, Video coverage
Carpenter and Editor of AConcordCarpenter.com enjoys using his knowledge & experience to help and educate on best practices in the remodeling industry
Articles by Robert Robillard
Aero RapidStop Bleed Control Kit
Aero RapidStop Bleed Control Kit By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Aero RapidStop Bleed Control Kit Serious bleeding can occur on construction sites, in workshops, and around power tools and equipment. Having emergency medical supplies available is an important part of jobsite safety. The Aero RapidStop Bleed Control Kit contains supplies intended for managing severe bleeding and other traumatic injuries until emergency medical personnel arrive.
Wagner Orion 930 Pinless Moisture Meter Review
Wagner Orion 930 Pinless Moisture Meter Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Wagner Orion 930 Pinless Moisture Meter Review If you install hardwood floors, build custom cabinets, or run interior trim, wood movement is your biggest liability. Install stock before it properly acclimates to the house, and you’re coming back six months later to fix buckled floors, crowned baseboards, or open miter joints on a fireplace mantel. Callbacks cost you time, eat your profit, and ding your reputation.
Flat-Profile Flashlight Showdown: Olight ArkPro Ultra vs. Milwaukee 2016R
Flat-Profile Flashlight Showdown: Olight ArkPro Ultra vs. Milwaukee 2016R By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Olight ArkPro Ultra vs. Milwaukee 2016R Flashlight Comparison Today, we’re pitting two modern, flat-profile EDC lights head-to-head to see which deserves a permanent spot in your tool belt: the Olight ArkPro Ultra and the Milwaukee 2016R. Both lights ditch the classic cylindrical design for a slim, pocketable footprint, but they take very different approaches once you turn them on.
Kwikset SmartCode 270 Capetown | What Makes It Different
Kwikset SmartCode 270 Capetown | What Makes It Different By Robert Robillard on Tool and Product Reviews Kwikset SmartCode 270 Capetown Deadbolt Lock | A Contractors Take As a contractor, I see more and more people gravitating toward keyless entry points on their homes and outbuildings. Keyless entry, like this Kwikset SmartCode 270 Capetown has shifted from a luxury to a standard.
Olight Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight | A Sight For Sore Eyes!
Olight Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight Review By Robert Robillard on Tool and Product Reviews, Weekend warrior Olight Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight | A Sight For Sore Eyes! As I get older, my eyesight isn’t quite what it used to be. I’ve always been an iron sight traditionalist—there’s a simplicity to steel sights that I’ve trusted for decades. But as my eyes age, acquiring front-post clarity gets harder, and transitioning to a red dot simply helps me stay on target faster and with far less strain.
Olight Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight | A Sight For Sore Eyes!
Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight Review By Robert Robillard on Tool and Product Reviews, Weekend warrior Osight SE Micro Red Dot Sight | A Sight For Sore Eyes! As I get older, my eyesight isn’t quite what it used to be. I’ve always been an iron sight traditionalist—there’s a simplicity to steel sights that I’ve trusted for decades. But as my eyes age, acquiring front-post clarity gets harder, and transitioning to a red dot simply helps me stay on target faster and with far less strain.
New Hilti 22V Nuron 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
New Hilti 22V Nuron 7-1/4″ Circular Saw By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Hilti SC 30WR-22 7-1/4″ Cordless Circular Saw Review: 8 Weeks of Jobsite Testing We recently brought the new Hilti 22V Nuron 7-1/4″ Circular Saw SC30WR-22 to our job site to test its performance on an active remodeling project. After putting this saw through its paces over the last eight weeks, we have a clear handle on where it excels and where it could use a little refinement.
MAX PowerLite System Review: 500 PSI Framing Power
MAX PowerLite System Review: 500 PSI Framing Power By Robert Robillard on Remodeling MAX HN90F Framing Nailer & AKHL1320E Compressor Review Framing houses today involves more than standard lumber. Framing crews use heavy-duty engineered lumber such as LVL and LSL, along with dense Advantech sub-flooring. Metal connectors and hold-downs are also used. Many 100-PSI framing nailers struggle to sink nails into LVLs. Carpenters must rework nails with a hammer, slowing progress.
Milwaukee M-Spector 2311-20 vs. 2324-21 Comparison
Milwaukee M-Spector 2311-20 vs. 2324-21 Comparison By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Is the New M12 M-Spector 360 Worth the Upgrade? If you’ve owned a Milwaukee M-Spector inspection camera for several years, you’ve probably wondered whether Milwaukee’s newest model is worth the investment. In this comparison, we’re putting the original Milwaukee M-Spector AV (2311-20) head-to-head against the latest Milwaukee M12 M-Spector 360 (2324-21).
Makita GAG16 40V XGT Flathead Grinder
Makita GAG16 40V XGT Flathead Grinder By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Makita Flathead Grinder Review Makita GAG16 40V XGT Flathead Grinder: Powerful Performance in Tight Spaces As a remodeling contractor, I’ve used my fair share of angle grinders over the years.
Hilti SCT 60-22 Nuron Cordless Table Saw
Hilti SCT 60-22 Nuron Cordless Table Saw By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Hilti SCT 60-22 Nuron Cordless Table Saw Review Hilti built its reputation on concrete, fastening, and demolition tools, but with the expansion of the Nuron battery platform, the company has been steadily moving into woodworking and carpentry applications. The Hilti SCT 60-22 Cordless Table Saw is part of that push, offering a full-size cordless table saw designed for pros that want to power of corded in a cordless saw.
Best Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Mower
Best Battery-Powered Self-Propelled Mower By Robert Robillard on Head to Head Comparison Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mower | Head-to-Head Comparison 2026 The benefits of battery outdoor power equipment (OPE) are now undeniable. From casual homeowners to seasoned pros, the shift toward batteries is driven by a desire for a cleaner, quieter, and more versatile experience. But who builds the best Homeowner machine in 2026? And who builds the best Commercial mower in 2026?
How to Replace a Wood Porch Post with a PVC Porch Post
How To Replace a Wood Porch Post with a PVC Post By Robert Robillard on Remodeling A Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading Porch Columns Replacing a rotted wood porch post with a PVC post is a great way to reduce future maintenance while maintaining the appearance of your home’s exterior. The project isn’t complicated, but it does require safely supporting the porch roof while the existing post is removed and replaced. Here’s the process I use.
Giraffe Tools 130-ft Retractable Hose Reel
Giraffe Tools 130-ft Retractable Hose Reel By Robert Robillard on Landscape Giraffe Tools 130-ft Retractable Hose Reel Review: A Contractor’s Take I’ve been a remodeling contractor and homeowner for more than 30 years. One thing I know for sure: tangled garden hoses is wasted time. Whether you’re wrapping up a project or watering the yard, the last thing you want is a kinked hose . Today, we’re taking a deep dive into an auto-retracting option from Giraffe Tools.
Kreg’s Ionic Drive cordless Tool Expansion
Kreg’s Ionic Drive Expansion: The Second Wave (2026) Kreg is expanding its tool lineup with the 2026 release of the Ionic Drive 20V System. While historically known for manufacturing woodworking jigs and clamps, the company is shifting toward a broader catalog of battery-powered options. Following the late-2025 release of the “Rebel” pocket-hole joiner, the April/May 2026 expansion introduces tools designed for general workshop and garage tasks.
Vara Safety RACT B V2 Installation Guide
Vara Safety RACT B V2 Installation Guide By Robert Robillard on Home And Personal Safety, Tool and Product Reviews Vara Safety RACT B V2: Secure Biometric Rifle Storage Review Vara Safety RACT B V2, biometric rifle mount, smart gun storage, biometric firearm storage, rifle wall mount, secure rifle storage, fast access gun storage, home defense storage, gun mount review, firearm security system As a contractor and carpenter, I constantly look for ways to solve unique residential problems.
Evolution R185CCSX+ Multi-Material Track Compatible Saw Review
Evolution R185CCSX+ Multi-Material Track Compatible Saw Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Evolution Track Compatible Saw Review The 7 ¼” track-compatible circular saw from Evolution Tools is an incredibly versatile cutting system that can be adapted to almost any application. While it is not a true track-saw, the Evolution R185CCSX+ blends the capability and accuracy of a track-compatible baseplate with the all-around utility of a powerful 7 ¼” circular saw.
OX Pro SPEEDFRAME Extendable Leve
OX Pro SPEEDFRAME Extendable Leve By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews If you’ve ever tried measuring a rough opening, ceiling height, or long framing layout by yourself, you already know the limitations of a standard tape measure. Blade flex, collapse, and inaccurate readings become a constant annoyance — especially when working overhead or spanning long distances.Until the OX Pro SPEEDFRAME Extendable Level came on scene. Most tape measures are designed for distance.
RIDGID WD4070 NXT (4-Gallon) Wet/Dry Vacuum
RIDGID WD4070 NXT (4-Gallon) Wet/Dry Vacuum By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews The RIDGID WD4070 (4-Gallon) Wet/Dry Vacuum Review Managing dust and debris in finished spaces requires a careful balance of power and portability. While massive production rigs have their place for heavy demolition, the RIDGID WD4070 4-Gallon Portable Wet/Dry Vac is engineered specifically to solve a different field problem: tight spaces, quick cleanups, and precision maintenance.
RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum
RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum: Raw Power Meets “Value Engineering” RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum Review: Raw Power Meets “Value Engineering” Managing dust, bulk debris, and water is a non-negotiable part of maintaining a safe, professional job site. On our sites, a heavy-duty 16-gallon vacuum isn’t a luxury—it’s an absolute staple.
RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum Review
RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum: Raw Power Meets “Value Engineering” RIDGID HD1900 16-Gallon NXT Power Wet/Dry Vacuum Review: Raw Power Meets “Value Engineering” Managing dust, bulk debris, and water is a non-negotiable part of maintaining a safe, professional job site. On our sites, a heavy-duty 16-gallon vacuum isn’t a luxury—it’s an absolute staple.
Ring Floodlight Cam Pro (2nd Gen) Review
Ring Floodlight Cam Pro (2nd Gen) Review By Robert Robillard on Security Camera, Tool and Product Reviews Hands-On: Ring Floodlight Cam Pro (2nd Gen) Review Most security cameras are just reactive system. They record grainy footage of a person in a hoodie after the damage is done. This Ring Pro unit is built to be a proactive deterrent, designed to stop a problem before it gets to your front door.
Borg locks BL2600 ECP Mechanical Lock
Borg locks BL2600 ECP Mechanical Lock By Robert Robillard on Remodeling BORG LOCKS Marine Grade Deadbolt for Wooden Pool Gate Securing a pool area presents a unique challenge where safety, convenience, and environmental longevity must intersect. A wooden gate is often the weakest link in a home’s perimeter, especially when standard hardware succumbs to chlorine, salt, and humidity. After evaluating various options, I selected the Borglocks BL2600 ECP lock as the primary defense for our pool area.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Custom Barn Cabinets for a Studio: Rustic Build with Modern Precision By Robert Robillard on How To, Woodworking Building Rustic Barn Cabinets with Kreg Tools (Step-by-Step DIY Guide) Transforming a rugged barn space into a functional studio requires cabinetry that respects the heritage of the structure while embracing modern efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk through the process of crafting custom lower cabinets using eastern white pine and the precision of Kreg pocket-hole joinery.
Olight ArkPro Ultra Review
Olight ArkPro Ultra Review By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Olight ArkPro Ultra Review: The New “Endgame” for Premium EDC Flashlights The everyday carry (EDC) flashlight world is officially evolving, and this Olight ArkPro Ultra Review takes a close look at the light leading the charge.
Milwaukee Nitrus AX vs Diablo Amped: Nail-Embedded Blade Showdown
Milwaukee Nitrus AX vs Diablo Amped: Nail-Embedded Blade Showdown By Robert Robillard on Head-To-Head Top Carbide Reciprocating Blades Compared: Diablo Amped (nail-embedded wood) vs. Milwaukee Nitrus AX We recently tested and published our findings on the Diablo General Purpose carbide reciprocating blade against the new Milwaukee Nitrus carbide blade. After that test, Diablo requested that we also test their Nail-Embedded blade against the Nitrus.
How to Choose the Right SAWZALL Blade
How to Choose the Right SAWZALL Blade By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews The Ultimate Milwaukee SAWZALL Blade Guide: If you’ve ever stood in the tool aisle staring at a wall of red-and-white packaging, you know that picking a reciprocating “Sawzall” saw blade isn’t as simple as it used to be.
OLIGHT Baton 4 Pro Flashlight
OLIGHT Baton 4 Pro Flashlight By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Olight Baton 4 Pro Flashlight Review While the official launch isn’t until April 15, 2026, I’ve been carrying and testing a unit of the new OLIGHT Baton 4 Pro Flashlight for approximately a month. As an everyday carry (EDC) tool, a reliable flashlight is indispensable on the job site or for home inspections.
Diablo Amped vs. Milwaukee Nitrus Reciprocating Blade | Head-to-Head
Diablo Amped vs. Milwaukee Nitrus Reciprocating Blade | Head-to-Head By Robert Robillard on Head to Head Tool Comparison Milwaukee Nitrus AX Carbide vs. Diablo Amped Carbide [DSO909CGPA] Blade It’s one thing to listen to a Product Manager talk about a product; it’s another to see the blade perform on the jobsite. We put the Nitrus AX up against our long-time crew favorite: the Diablo Amped 9” Carbide Blade (DS0909CGPA 6/9 TPI).
Rikon 81-608 Buffer Review
Rikon 81-608 Buffer Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Rikon 8-Inch, Low-Speed Buffer, Model #81-608 Review The Rikon 81-608 buffer is a specialized 1/2 HP buffer designed for finesse rather than brute force. Its standout feature is the “Long Shaft” design, which extends 6-1/4″ on each side to create a massive 12-1/2″ workspace.
LEXIVON Tool Review: High-End Performance Without Designer Price
LEXIVON Tool Review: High-End Performance Without Designer Price By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews LEXIVON Tool Review: High-End Performance Without the Truck-Brand Price There’s a big gap between throwaway homeowner tools and high-priced truck brands—and that’s exactly where Lexivon operates. Their lineup focuses on the core tools mechanics and serious DIYers actually use: torque wrenches, impact-rated sockets, hex bit sets, and adapters built from Cr-Mo, Cr-V, and S2 steel.
The Best Sawhorse Comparison
The Best Sawhorse Comparison By Robert Robillard on Remodeling The Best “Carpenter” Sawhorse I feel like I’ve been on a quest my entire career as a carpenter to find the unicorn of sawhorses. By that I mean a pair of sawhorses that stores well, are durable, open easily, support a lot of weight, and don’t break after 2 months or immediately after dropping them on a cold day. I know I’m asking for a lot, but someone, somewhere must make that unicorn sawhorse.
How Much Protection Do Exterior Doors Actually Provide?
How Much Protection Do Exterior Doors Actually Provide? By Robert Robillard on Remodeling How Much Protection Do Exterior Doors Actually Provide? Most homeowners assume their front door is a barrier. In reality, it’s a time-delay system. A door’s job isn’t to be indestructible. It’s to slow entry long enough to increase noise, effort, visibility, and risk. If it forces an intruder to work hard, make noise, or stay exposed, it has done its job.
Best Cordless Track Saw Comparison
Best Cordless Track Saw Comparison By Robert Robillard on Head-To-Head Best Cordless Track Saw Head-To-Head 2026 Looking for the best cordless track saw? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve tested 12 of the top models, evaluating them across key areas like cut precision, runtime, ergonomics, features, and value. After putting each saw to the test, we’ll crown the Best Cordless Track Saw based on overall performance. In our previous Track Saw head-to-head in 2020, five models were available.
Best Cordless SMALL Capacity Vacuum
Best Cordless SMALL Capacity Vacuum By Robert Robillard on Head to Head Comparison, Tool and Product Reviews Best Small Cordless Vacuum Head-to-Head Comparison (2025) If you thought small cordless vacuums were just “quick cleanup tools,” think again. The 1–3+ gallon category has exploded in power and capability, driven by brushless motors, high-output batteries, and smarter filtration systems that put real jobsite performance in a compact package.
Top 20-Inch Battery Chainsaws of 2025: Head-to-Head
Top 20-Inch Battery Chainsaws of 2025: Head-to-Head By Robert Robillard on Head to Head Tool Comparison, Tool Reviews Best Large Capacity Battery Chainsaw of 2025 Welcome to part two of our Best Battery Chainsaw of 2025 Head-to-Head comparison test. Last month, we covered the 16”-18” class—an excellent size for most users and most tasks. But one of our main goals with this project is to show just how far battery saws have come in terms of power and performance.
Kreg Rebel Pocket-Hole Joiner Review: Inside the New 20V Ionic Drive Tool Line
Kreg Rebel Pocket-Hole Joiner Review: Inside the New 20V Ionic Drive Tool Line By Robert Robillard on Remodeling Kreg Ionic Drive Review: First Look at Kreg’s New 20V Cordless Tool Platform Kreg Tool, long known for pocket-hole joinery and user-friendly woodworking solutions, is stepping into entirely new territory. Beginning October 1, 2025, the company launched its first-ever cordless power tool line built around the new Blue Ion 20V battery platform.
Hud-Son HWB Box Wedge Wood Splitter
Hud-Son HWB Box Wedge Wood Splitter By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Hud-Son HWB Box Wedge Wood Splitter Review As part of our review of the Hud-Son HWB Box Wedge Wood Splitter, The Tool Lab crew decided to time how quickly they could split and stack 1/3 of a cord of wood. The total time? Just about 21 minutes and 27 seconds.
Concord Carpenter Building | Remodeling
Concord Carpenter Building | Remodeling By Robert Robillard on Remodeling A Concord Classic: Where History Meets Modern Family Living In the heart of historic Concord, Massachusetts, we had the privilege of transforming a dated 1990s Cape-style home into a vibrant, timeless family haven. Located just down the road from Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, the area’s literary history played a key role in the design process.
Gun Safety And Kids
Gun Safety And Kids By Robert Robillard on Home And Personal Safety Gun Safety And Kids ~ What’s Important! Whether you own a gun, or not it’s important to talk to kids about the potential dangers of guns, and what to do if they find one. Guns are in more than one third of all U.S. households. Being safe with guns can keep kids, teens, and even adults from getting hurt. Many times, guns are fired by accident.
ImoLaza ET Master 4 Gen Smart Sprinkler Controller
ImoLaza ET Master 4 Gen Smart Sprinkler Controller By Robert Robillard on Dealing With Dust, Tool and Product Reviews How To Install A ImoLaza ET Master 4 Gen Smart Sprinkler Controller Hey everyone! Today, we’re reviewing the ImoLaza ET Master 4 Gen Smart Sprinkler Controller—a high-tech irrigation system that makes watering your lawn or garden easier and more efficient. Easy Installation: Setup is relatively simple and can be done with basic tools.
Cut Hub Workstation Review
Cut Hub Workstation Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Cut Hub Portable and Modular Workstation We ran the Cut Hub miter saw stand hard for six weeks on site. Here’s the straight truth—what I loved, what I didn’t, and whether it’s worth your money. If you think the Cut Hub is just another miter saw stand, think again. This is a full-on, professional-grade workstation system designed for serious builders who want speed, accuracy, and efficiency on the job site.
Best Work Sneakers for Men in 2025: KEEN Utility Speedworks
Best Work Sneakers for Men in 2025: KEEN Utility Speedworks By Robert Robillard on Remodeling KEEN Utility Speedworks Work Sneaker: Built for the Modern Tradesperson Workwear is evolving, and KEEN Utility is leading the charge with the Speedworks Work Sneaker—a lightweight, athletic-style work shoe designed for the next generation of tradespeople, service pros, and warehouse workers. It’s a perfect match for those who move between demanding job sites and busy everyday life.
How To Build A Stone Cairn With Rebar
How To Build A Stone Cairn With Rebar By Robert Robillard on Landscape Build a Safe and Sturdy Stone Cairn for Your Garden If you’re looking for a way to add a natural, sculptural focal point to your garden or backyard, a stone cairn is a beautiful and timeless choice. But unlike the stacked stones you see on hiking trails, a permanent garden cairn needs to be secure—especially if children or pets are nearby.
5 Wi-Fi Tips for a Faster, More Reliable Home Network
5 Wi-Fi Tips for a Faster, More Reliable Home Network By Robert Robillard on Remodeling A strong Wi-Fi network is as essential as a trusty toolbox for homeowners tackling DIY projects, streaming tutorials, or managing smart devices. Just like you wouldn’t use a hammer for every job, your home network needs the right setup and maintenance to perform at its best. Merrimack Valley Wi-Fi Pros shares five practical tips to boost your home Wi-Fi’s speed, security, and coverage.
Jorgensen Corner Easing Plane Review
Jorgensen Corner Easing Plane Review By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Jorgensen Corner Easing Plane (Model #70748) The Jorgensen Corner Easing Plane has quickly become one of my favorite hand tools. My older go-to was the Rockler carbide-tipped easing plane, but they stopped making it and when I couldn’t find replacement blades, I searched around and found the Jorgensen for approximately $30 online.
Best Cordless 9-10″ Cut-Off Saw 2025
Best Cordless 9-10″ Cut-Off Saw 2025 By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews Best Battery Powered 9-10″ Concrete Cutter | Head-To-Head Test A Cut-Off Saw—also known as a power cutter, masonry saw, or demo saw—is a handheld tool commonly used by landscape masons and contractors for tough cutting tasks. Designed to handle hard materials, it’s ideal for cutting pavers, bricks, concrete blocks, rebar, and metal pipe.
How-to Build Sturdy, Stacking Sawhorses
How-to Build Sturdy, Stacking Sawhorses By Robert Robillard on How To How to Build Simple, Stackable Sawhorses with 2x4s Under $30.00 This project outlines how to build durable, stackable sawhorses using only 2×4 lumber. Ideal for supporting materials or transforming into a temporary table, the design is budget-friendly ($30 if buying new wood) and simple enough to complete in under an hour. Related Video.
Cordless Heat Gun Comparison
Cordless Heat Gun Comparison By Robert Robillard on Tool and Product Reviews, Tool Reviews Cordless Heat Gun Comparison Testing A cordless heat gun is a versatile tool, capable of handling everything from stripping paint and thawing frozen pipes to shrink wrapping and welding plastics. The cordless design offers unmatched freedom—whether you’re working in the garage, on a job site, or in hard-to-reach areas, you’re no longer tethered to an outlet.
Framing and Demo Saw Blade Comparison Testing
Framing and Demo Saw Blade Comparison Testing By Robert Robillard on Tool and Product Reviews, Tool Review Videos, Tool Reviews Saw Blade Showdown: A Test of Speed, Durability, and Performance When it comes to framing and demolition, choosing the right saw blade can make all the difference between a job well done and one that drags on longer than necessary.
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