Cleaning robots - http://ironbound.snradventure.com

Editor's picks

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  Black & Decker AF-100-3ZP 30-Feet 0.065-Inch Line String Trimmer Replacement Spool, 3-Pack

  Lawn & Patio (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (129 reviews):

  (4.4/5)

  

  Get these extra spools and buy bulk line.

  I somewhat agree with the guy from Vegas that this is a waste of money, EXCEPT that this is about the only way to get extra spools for your Black & Decker weed whacker. Note that you can buy a spool of 600 feet of .065 line from Amazon (Desert Extrusion brand, price is $8.80 for 600 feet in March 2007). Then, with the bulk line, plus these 3 spools, plus the spool that came with the weed whacker you can have up to 4 spools ready to rock and roll at minimal cost. Unlike the guy from Vegas, it takes me more than 2 minutes to hand-wind a spool, but not a lot longer, it's pretty easy to do, my main advice being I find it better to not try and wind more than 25 feet onto a spool even though it presumably can hold 30 feet of line. Everytime I wind more than 25 feet I get a lot of jams until the line gets those extra few feet chewed off. Hope this helps. 5/5 Granville Bentley "Wally Weed Whacker" (Rocklin, CA USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Black & Decker AF-100-3ZP 30-Feet 0.065-Inch Line String Trimmer Replacement Spool, 3-Pack (Lawn & Patio) I somewhat agree with the guy from Vegas that this is a waste of money, EXCEPT that this is about the only way to get extra spools for your Black & Decker weed whacker. Note that you can buy a spool of 600 feet of .065 line from Amazon (Desert Extrusion brand, price is $8.80 for 600 feet in March 2007). Then, with the bulk line, plus these 3 spools, plus the spool that came with the weed whacker you can have up to 4 spools ready to rock and roll at minimal cost. Unlike the guy from Vegas, it takes me more than 2 minutes to hand-wind a spool, but not a lot longer, it's pretty easy to do, my main advice being I find it better to not try and wind more than 25 feet onto a spool even though it presumably can hold 30 feet of line. Everytime I wind more than 25 feet I get a lot of jams until the line gets those extra few feet chewed off. Hope this helps. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 12, 2007

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  Don't waste your money

  What the other reviewers fail to mention, maybe because they failed to try, is that the AFS on the trimmer continues to work flawlessly with hand wound string, and at less than 1/4 the cost it's seems like a huge waste to buy the pre-wound spools. It only takes 2 minutes to rewind a spool, so even when I do run out in the middle of a job, I just look at it as a 2-minute break from yard work. Of course, if your one and only concern is convenience, you may be looking at the right product. Be aware, if you've had trouble with rewinding trimmers in the past, it may be because you're using old line, which tends to get brittle over time. Buy some new line and try again. If you buy the three-pack of spools three times, you just paid for your trimmer again.Thanks for reading,Adamps. Two stars for effort, but the cost is just ridiculous. 2/5 Adam Woodrum (Las Vegas, NV) - See all my reviews, July 2, 2005

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  AF-100 on GH400 Trimmer Edger

  The factory replacement spool for the GH400 Trimmer/Edger is the way to go. I have been very pleased with the easy to load and use spools. I have had bad luck with other trimmers, but this one is great with the factory replacement spool. 4/5 0, October 15, 2000

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  List Price: $27.05
  Price: $10.00
  You Save: $17.05 (63%)

  The Black & Decker spool utilizes centrifugal force to feed the trimmer line as it is needed

  2-year warranty

  Black & Decker replacement spool system eliminates time spent hand-winding string trimmers

  Includes a 0.065-Inch diameter line

  Compatible with most Black & Decker string trimmers; 30-Feet replacement line is factory wound for a superior feed

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  Black & Decker The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair: with 350 Projects and 2000 Photos (Black & Decker Complete Photo Guide)

  Book (Creative Publishing international)
  

  Rating (101 reviews):

  (4.6/5)

  

  Crisp, Clean, & Surgical instructions

  There are certain skills that are "wasted" on no one. Home repair is one such skill. I believe that 5 weeks after purchasing this book - the book has already paid for itself. My parents moved back into my grandmother's 1960-era house after she passed away last year. The house was in need of a few repairs, but money was a limiting factor. I had to find a way to teach myself (and my dad) how to weatherproof the basement, replacing an ancient water heater & dishwasher, replace several outlets with new GFCI (p. 397!) outlets, and finally, how to update the upstair's faucets and fixtures. I logged onto Amazon.com and typed-in HOME REPAIR. To be honest, I chose this book because it had 500+ pages and two 5-star reviews. When this book arrived, I instantly felt the weight and quality of the binding.(think college textbook material) I quickly found DETAILED descriptions of the tasks I would soon have to perform. I called my father and said "Get ready... 5/5 James J. Bell (Chamblee, GA United States) - See all my reviews, February 20, 2000

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  A great new homeowner starter book!

  I just bought this book and really love it. It's simple and easy to understand, and considering that I have never done much home repair before, this was a plus. It's the hammer and nail equivilent to that Betty Crocker cookbook we've all be hauling around for years. Always something new that you never knew you needed! 5/5 Joe (Upstate, NY) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair: With 350 Projects and 2300 Photos (Black & Decker) (Hardcover) We recently purchased an old home with lots of "problems". I borrowed this book from my local library (along with Black & Decker's Home Improvement) and was amazed at how clear and detailed it was. I think the best part is how they use real photos of everything, and not sketches. There are well over 2000 photos. Within days, I was dealing with and solving basement issues, plumbing problems, electrical outlets, and many more things that I did not even thing of. The books helped so much that I decided to go ahead and purchase them here on Amazon. There are countless home improvement books out there and some rank better than others. From what I've seen, the Black & Decker series ranks at the top and are an invaluable resource. It literally pays for itself with all the money saving tips and instructions. I recommend this book, along with Black & Decker's Home Improvement and Outdoor to anyone looking to save money on home repairs. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 5, 1999

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  Invaluable Resource

  We recently purchased an old home with lots of "problems". I borrowed this book from my local library (along with Black & Decker's Home Improvement) and was amazed at how clear and detailed it was. I think the best part is how they use real photos of everything, and not sketches. There are well over 2000 photos. Within days, I was dealing with and solving basement issues, plumbing problems, electrical outlets, and many more things that I did not even thing of. The books helped so much that I decided to go ahead and purchase them here on Amazon. There are countless home improvement books out there and some rank better than others. From what I've seen, the Black & Decker series ranks at the top and are an invaluable resource. It literally pays for itself with all the money saving tips and instructions. I recommend this book, along with Black & Decker's Home Improvement and Outdoor to anyone looking to save money on home repairs. 5/5 0, January 6, 2005

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  List Price: $35.00
  

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  Black & Decker Pivot Vac 18V Cordless Pivoting Hand Vac, PHV1810

  Home (Black and Decker)
  

  Rating (399 reviews):

  (3.9/5)

  

  This thing Sucks in a Good way!

  I purchased the older model PHV 1800 a little over 3 years ago, back in May 2007. I liked it so much that I purchased another one for my in-laws a month later. For the last couple of months, the battery no longer retained a proper charge and since the battery is unfortunately not replaceable, it gave me an excuse to buy this newer model PHV 1810. As with the previous model, this is the best and most powerful handheld vacuum we've ever used in our household.As I'm comparing the two units side-by-side, the new vacuum is a little smaller than the previous model and the dirt bin is bigger (it should hold more dirt). Since the battery on the old model is pretty much dead, I cannot give you an accurate power suction comparison between the two, but this one seems as powerful as when the previous model was new.The nozzle has a wide range of motions, it pivots to use at many angles and has a cleaning brush built into it (you just need to flip it upwards) so you'll never... 5/5 D. Moujaes (San Diego, CA United States) - See all my reviews, September 2, 2010

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  Newer is NOT better

  I have compared new Black and Decker 1800 and 1810 side by side. Less noise is the only thing the 1810 has over the 1800, but I don't consider that an advantage in a vacuum cleaner that I want to suck! The suction, the charging stand, the design of the 1800 is far superior to the 1810. In fact the 1810 has a MAJOR design flaw: Fold the nozzle back and everything you just vacuumed up falls out the nozzle! 2/5 Robert Stephan - See all my reviews This review is from: Black & Decker Pivot Vac 18V Cordless Pivoting Hand Vac, PHV1810 (Kitchen) I have compared new Black and Decker 1800 and 1810 side by side. Less noise is the only thing the 1810 has over the 1800, but I don't consider that an advantage in a vacuum cleaner that I want to suck! The suction, the charging stand, the design of the 1800 is far superior to the 1810. In fact the 1810 has a MAJOR design flaw: Fold the nozzle back and everything you just vacuumed up falls out the nozzle! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , August 30, 2010

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  powerful little vac

  This thing is a powerful hand vac!I haven't figured out if the brush feature is any good yet.I like the smaller attachment that slides out for small areas.Emptying out the container is easy enough but sometimes I use my big vacuum to really get the junk out.One thing to keep in mind is it is a bit heavy but I don't mind.I have not had any problems with stuff coming out when folding it up.I love having this thing around! 4/5 D (CA USA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker Pivot Vac 18V Cordless Pivoting Hand Vac, PHV1810 (Kitchen) This thing is a powerful hand vac!I haven't figured out if the brush feature is any good yet.I like the smaller attachment that slides out for small areas.Emptying out the container is easy enough but sometimes I use my big vacuum to really get the junk out.One thing to keep in mind is it is a bit heavy but I don't mind.I have not had any problems with stuff coming out when folding it up.I love having this thing around! Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , September 11, 2010

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  List Price: $117.34
  

  18 volts of power and high performance motor with cyclonic action

  Cordless 2-speed handheld vacuum cleaner that's Smaller, quieter and easier to clean than original model

  Removable, washable dirt bowl and filters; LED charging indicator light

  Innovative design folds in half for storage; 2-year limited warranty

  On-board brush and extendable crevice tool--no loose accessories

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  Black & Decker HPB18-OPE 18-Volt Slide Pack Battery For 18-Volt Outdoor Cordless Power Tools

  Lawn & Patio (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (104 reviews):

  (3.2/5)

  

  Unofficially the Better Battery, but...

  Black and Decker has at least 7 versions of the Slide 18v battery pack. You have no guidance which is better than the other as B&D absolutely refuses to publish the ampere rating or number of contacts of any of them.Battery identification is poor: Every battery I have seen is marked "244760-00." What good is that in identifying the battery? There are some molded-in numbers but B&D absolutely refuses to tell you what they mean.On the blister pack for the HPB18-OPE you read "25% more power than the standard battery*" Finding the "*", it says "Compared to the HPB18." Both are the same price on Lowes shelves. B&D absolutely refuses to divulge how these two compare to each other or the FireStorm series.A Factory Store manager has said two Firestorm versions were once better but have been downgraded this past 12-18 months and are usually worse than the HP18 units. B&D absolutely refuses to divulge any history of the FireStorm 18V batteries... 1/5 D. Charles - See all my reviews This review is from: Black & Decker HPB18-OPE 18-Volt Slide Pack Battery For 18-Volt Outdoor Cordless Power Tools (Lawn & Patio) Black and Decker has at least 7 versions of the Slide 18v battery pack. You have no guidance which is better than the other as B&D absolutely refuses to publish the ampere rating or number of contacts of any of them.Battery identification is poor: Every battery I have seen is marked "244760-00." What good is that in identifying the battery? There are some molded-in numbers but B&D absolutely refuses to tell you what they mean.On the blister pack for the HPB18-OPE you read "25% more power than the standard battery*" Finding the "*", it says "Compared to the HPB18." Both are the same price on Lowes shelves. B&D absolutely refuses to divulge how these two compare to each other or the FireStorm series.A Factory Store manager has said two Firestorm versions were once better but have been downgraded this past 12-18 months and are usually worse than the HP18 units. B&D absolutely refuses to divulge any history of the FireStorm 18V batteries... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , February 3, 2009

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  Regular battery

  B&D doesn't really tell you the whole story about their batteries...In my experience, this battery has 1.5 Ah cells, and unless HPB18 to which it is compared to has 1 Ah cells (which I doubt) it cannot have 50% more capacity. 25% is more likely and it was marketed as such for a while.Adding to other review, I think I figured out number near the battery lock. First, you have manufacturing year and week along with some letters. And then there is three digit number, which tells you cell manufacturer (first digit) and capacity (two last digits). This is what I encountered:412 - 1.2 Ah cells marked BD (most likely specifically manufactured for B&D) - usually FS18B and HPB18 batteries, but also some 244760. These cells are actually short Sub C (or 4/5 SC) and B&D puts plastic pad inside the battery, so housing has the same exterior size.115 - 1.5 Ah cells without manufacturer identification415 - 1.5 Ah cells marked BD... 4/5 Andrey G. Nikolayev "mahatma" (Liverpool, NY United States) - See all my reviews, May 13, 2009

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  These batteries STINK.

  Bought a string trimmer with 2 HPB18 batteries two years ago. The batteries never did last more than about 10 minutes on the job (BIG disappointment) but at least with the two of them I could do MOST of my very small yard. This year the batteries are both dead (won't hold a charge). I broke down last night and went to HD to buy a replacement battery. Then I read the review here that talks about the code underneath the battery clip, so I decided to check it out. My two old batteries have the code "415" (Black & Decker, 1.5 AH) while the new battery I just bought has the code "410" (Black & Decker, 1.0 AH)!! GREAT - if two of their 1.5AH batteries wouldn't hold up to do my yard, I'm sure that one of their 1.0AH batteries will handle about 5 blades of grass before dying! I guess I'll be returning this battery today!Does anyone know where you can get HPB18 batteries with 1.5 AH (or greater) capacity? I'm leary about ordering over the internet, for fear that I won't... 1/5 Thomas Tobin "happy gardener" (Mobile, AL USA) - See all my reviews, April 3, 2010

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  List Price: $49.99
  

  Compatible with models NST2018, NST2118, NST1810, NHT518, NS118, NPP2018, NPT318, CCS818, CCC3000, GC818.

  Includes a 2-year warranty

  Powers your yard tools for efficient, wireless operation

  Weighs 1.7 pounds

  Easy to install and remove

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  Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring, 5th Edition, with DVD: Current with 2011-2013 Electrical Codes (Black & Decker Complete Guide)

  Book (Creative Publishing international)
  

  Rating (28 reviews):

  (5.0/5)

  

  Good Book For A Novice

  I cannot write a review for how someone who is a professional electrician would look at this book; I am a fairly decent handiman, but know very little about electrical wiring. I own a home that is in desperate need of electrical updating - the existing wiring dates back to the 1920s. After having an electrician appraise the job at $7500, I thought I'd look into seeing how much of it I could do myself, and so in order to learn about what I can and what I cannot do, I decided to buy this book and educate myself.I didn't want a book that had a couple of little tricks here and there. I wanted a book that sat me down and explained all the way from the beginning just what electrical wiring is all about. I didn't want a professional electrician's manual, either.And so, to those ends, this book is absolutely on target! I have already learned a huge amount of stuff in just the first two chapters, which I'll probably have to go back and re-read because there's just so... 5/5 Curtis Allred "Curt Allred" (Michigan's Upper Peninsula) - See all my reviews, May 5, 2011

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  B&K The Complete Guide to Wiring

  I have a class in Electrcal/Electronic Technology and one in Domestic Electrical Installation. As a tutor/instructor, I find the book informative,the illustrations are real-life like,and simply put,just what you want the students to see and read,so that they can conceptualize better. 5/5 Godfrey Moore - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring, 5th Edition, with DVD: Current with 2011-2013 Electrical Codes (Black & Decker Complete Guide) (Paperback) I have a class in Electrcal/Electronic Technology and one in Domestic Electrical Installation. As a tutor/instructor, I find the book informative,the illustrations are real-life like,and simply put,just what you want the students to see and read,so that they can conceptualize better. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 4, 2011

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  B&D Wiring 5th Ed.

  Superb book, especially for someone with minimal experience in electrical projects. The set of wiring diagrams showing numerous possible types of projects is the best part. Easy to follow. 5/5 eldumpogrande - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring, 5th Edition, with DVD: Current with 2011-2013 Electrical Codes (Black & Decker Complete Guide) (Paperback) Superb book, especially for someone with minimal experience in electrical projects. The set of wiring diagrams showing numerous possible types of projects is the best part. Easy to follow. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , July 15, 2011

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  List Price: $24.99
  

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  Black & Decker NST2018 Grass Hog 12-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Electric String Trimmer with 2 Batteries

  Lawn & Patio (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (779 reviews):

  (4.0/5)

  

  Very decent for basic use

  I think this is perfect for someone who really:1) dislikes the noise and smell of the gas trimmers2) wants something fairly light3) does not want a cord to always worry about4) already has firestorm or B&D 18 volt products (batteries are interchangeable)I have used all 3 types of trimmers, gas, 120 wired, and this cordless one and I have to say the convenience is great. Instant on with a press of the switch is great. The plastic is a bit cheap feeling but it seems to do the work. I think it could've been much better constructed, but the battery life is pretty impressive and the speed/torque of the trimmer is also pretty impressive on a well grown/groomed lawn. It did have a bit of trouble instantly tackling a thick busy section of grass but after going over it 2-3 passes...it took care of it. This same spot has given me trouble even with the corded 120 volt version from Toro so this was expected. The gas one I had chewed through it easily but that's... 4/5 Andrew Ma "Rabid consumer" (Austin, TX USA) - See all my reviews, July 7, 2004

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  Pretty good - but don't get rid of your corded trimmer

  I just bought the B&D NST2018 trimmer along with the NS118 cordless blower. I have a corner lot with long parkways and a lot of sidewalk footage, and have grown tired of dealing with up to 175 feet of extension cables for my corded trimmer and blower. I've had a nice battery-powered mower for several years, and felt it was time to go all cordless. This new pair of tools seemed promising, particularly because of the removable battery design.After only one use I can say I'm reasonably satisfied, but not fully sold.Handling: This is probably one of the lightest cordless trimmers available and is easy to handle. The automatic feed system looks similar to the ones in other B&D models and seems to work properly. The shaft length is adjustable and the cutting head flips over for vertical edging.Power: The trimmer is clearly not as powerful as my corded one. It deals with grass and light ground cover adequately, but has a hard time on anything with thick stems. Not... 4/5 W. R. Stockstill Jr. ""Bill"" (Marietta, GA United States) - See all my reviews, April 6, 2004

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  OK replacement for a corded model

  I got this trimmer to replace a 14" corded Grasshog. Getting the cord out and dragging it around is a hassle. I had a cheap gas weedeater before and I could never get it to start, just ended up with a sore arm from pulling the cord. So I opted for this model. My first impression was that its wimpy. The string is almost too short. The battery drains quickly. It would be useless if 2 batteries were not included. But, it trims my 1/3 acre yard with hardly any juice left in the second battery. So, it does the job, but if you let your yard go for a few weeks plan on spending the weekend getting it back under control with the wimpy trimmer and anemic batteries. The auto feed, edger guide, and no cord are its best attibutes. 3/5 0, June 11, 2006

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  List Price: $191.66
  

  Patented gear drive transmission amplifies motor torque for increased cutting power and performance

  Includes trimmer, 2 batteries, and charger; weighs 6.8 pounds; 2-year warranty

  Includes two 18V NiCad batteries so you never have to stop half way through your job

  Telescoping shaft, centrifugal forces automatically advances line

  18-volt, 12-inch cordless string trimmer/edger

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  Black & Decker BDL100AV All-In-One SureGrip Laser Level

  Home Improvement (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (63 reviews):

  (4.0/5)

  

  Very handy and more so with a three cent investment...

  Customer Video Review Length:: 1:18 MinsI like this because: - It's not too expensive (for a laser level) - It is compact, more so when you don't need the section cup part (see the video) - It is easy to useWhat I didn't like: - There is only a horizontal beam. Sometimes its handy (or even necessary) to have a vertical beam as well. In that case I prefer the - It doesn't reliably stick to painted walls. I easily fixed that as shown in the videoBTW, I feel that honest, effective reviews, accompanied by detailed videos, can take the place of first-hand experiences that are often lacking in online shopping. I've always appreciated the help I've gotten from other reviewers and try to return the favor as best as I can. I hope you found this... 4/5 Bob Tobias "Robert Tobias" (Arlington, VA USA) - See all my reviews, June 30, 2011

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  It's okay and it does work but ...

  I wish the suction cup worked better.Like a lot of "modern" houses, mine in mainly textured wallboard. The suction cup does not work at all, not even for a few seconds.Once you put in on a smooth surface, it holds fine, but I don't normally hang pictures on my doors or jams.If you don't mind pin holes and remember if you are off a little in your placement, another pin hole or two is in your future, then this does work.Another complaint I have is that the level is connected via magnet and cannot be "locked". When mounted, the slightest touch will take the level out of alignment and while it is not hard to get it level (green) again, there is a little "play" in between the level lines. So once it is moved, it may not be exactly in the same place again. There should be a lock.You also need to note that the laser only comes out of one side. If you are using this to hang pictures along a wall you need to mount it all the way to one... 3/5 Howard W. (Santa Clarita, CA) - See all my reviews, July 5, 2011

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  Works great for my projects

  I had my husband hang curtain rods in our house this last weekend, and I gave him this to do it with. The laser showed up nicely on the wall, and all we did was measure where (height) I wanted my first holder, and the rest lined up from there. The red/green indicator light made it easy to tell when we were in line. We have textured walls, so we had to use the push pin to hold the level, but did not have a problem with that. the hole was so small we could not see it (but we did fill it anyway). Then my husband went wild and started checking all our appliances for level, as the unit has an audible beep signal for level, so you don't have to be looking at it while turning the levelers on the feet. Now we are all in level. Since we did not use the suction cup, for a test we hung it up on our fridge, and it is still there 4 days later. The only thing we did not like was the switch to change the unit from level to laser, as it is easy to slide, and would go past the off position and turn on... 5/5 Housemom (EGF, mn) - See all my reviews This review is from: Black & Decker BDL100AV All-In-One SureGrip Laser Level (Tools & Home Improvement) I had my husband hang curtain rods in our house this last weekend, and I gave him this to do it with. The laser showed up nicely on the wall, and all we did was measure where (height) I wanted my first holder, and the rest lined up from there. The red/green indicator light made it easy to tell when we were in line. We have textured walls, so we had to use the push pin to hold the level, but did not have a problem with that. the hole was so small we could not see it (but we did fill it anyway). Then my husband went wild and started checking all our appliances for level, as the unit has an audible beep signal for level, so you don't have to be looking at it while turning the levelers on the feet. Now we are all in level. Since we did not use the suction cup, for a test we hung it up on our fridge, and it is still there 4 days later. The only thing we did not like was the switch to change the unit from level to laser, as it is easy to slide, and would go past the off position and turn on... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , June 9, 2011

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  List Price: $47.68
  

  Audio signal for accurate leveling when out of sight

  Mark-free technology attaches with a sure grip to a variety of nonporous surfaces

  Magnetic attachment that flips to project laser left or right

  Attaches securely for up to two hours

  Automatically changes from red (not level) to green (level)

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  Black & Decker HPD18AK-2 18-Volt High Performance Drill

  Home Improvement (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (35 reviews):

  (4.6/5)

  

  Black & Decker HPD18AK-2 18-Volt High Performance Drill

  Wow, what a great value from Amazon. I built my entire deck with this drill on two charges. It has all the power I need around the house.I looked at several other makes at more than twice the price before I bought this unit. I'm very happy I went with this one. The chucking system works very well too.I have no complaints with this fine product from Black & Decker. Shipping was very fast too. 5/5 Richard A. Ott "The AVRiser Guy" (Milwaukie, OR) - See all my reviews, September 18, 2009

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  Awesome Drill

  I don't own this drill, but I used my friend's to build a huge outdoor wooden playsets. It took three days to build, and did it all on one charge.One really great feature on this drill is the ability to increase or decrease the amount of torque. What I built was made out of cedar, which can split really easy especially the thin planks around the railings.I'll be picking one up. 5/5 Simple Jack "Bohica" (here) - See all my reviews This review is from: Black & Decker HPD18AK-2 18-Volt High Performance Drill (Tools & Home Improvement) I don't own this drill, but I used my friend's to build a huge outdoor wooden playsets. It took three days to build, and did it all on one charge.One really great feature on this drill is the ability to increase or decrease the amount of torque. What I built was made out of cedar, which can split really easy especially the thin planks around the railings.I'll be picking one up. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , May 12, 2010

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  Tough Torque

  I just received the drill so haven't given it much of a workout yet. But I am impressed with the torque...it really makes even my dull bits look good. (I really plan to sharpen those bits....someday.) I have been using a 14V B&D for several years and I get nothing but slippage with the bit going nowhere. In fact I bought Skill AC drill for the rough stuff...which will now go in my RV and this 18V will take the place of all my other drills. I also like the ability to pick a useable torque for setting screws, an impossible task with any other tool I ever had.I really like having the two batteries included although I doubt I willl be doing enough drilled at one sitting to run out of battery power.Again in my life I asked myself; "Why didn't I do this sooner?" 5/5 Jack Welch (Kingston, WA) - See all my reviews, October 8, 2010

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  List Price: $167.40
  

  Supplies 330 in./lbs. of torque

  Zero to 350 RPM in high-torque applications, zero to 1,400 RPM in high-speed applications

  100 percent metal chuck with a spindle lock to tighten screw drivers and drill bits in less time

  Weighs 9.4 pounds (shipped), 2-year warranty

  Includes two 18-volt batteries, one cup charger, kit box, and 10-piece drill bit set

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  Black & Decker Codes for Homeowners: Electrical Codes, Mechanical Codes, Plumbing Codes, Building Codes

  Book (Creative Publishing international)
  

  Rating (11 reviews):

  (4.5/5)

  

  Great homeowner's helper

  I have a very old house and find myself crossing over all areas of maintenance. I am not a professional electrician, plumber or contractor; but I am confident in my skills and comfortable with taking on most tasks. Having a multi-subject guidebook to check the codes and proper configurations is indispensable. Swapping out a 40-60 year old 3-way light outlet, and all the switches, to a 4-way configuration is not something I do every day. This book provides great guidance and excellent drawings of every configuration I needed in my home. 5/5 Joe Bagadonuts (Leesburg, VA) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker Codes for Homeowners: Electrical Codes, Mechanical Codes, Plumbing Codes, Building Codes (Paperback) I have a very old house and find myself crossing over all areas of maintenance. I am not a professional electrician, plumber or contractor; but I am confident in my skills and comfortable with taking on most tasks. Having a multi-subject guidebook to check the codes and proper configurations is indispensable. Swapping out a 40-60 year old 3-way light outlet, and all the switches, to a 4-way configuration is not something I do every day. This book provides great guidance and excellent drawings of every configuration I needed in my home. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 16, 2010

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  codes for homeowners

  this is a very informative book that will keep the handyman out of trouble, it quickley skims over the most commen codes that a homeowner would run into. It is not very complete but that is to be expected. if it were an in depth book of all the codes it would need to be 100 times the size. I am a contractor and refur back to this book all the times on areas I dont normaly deal with. 5/5 mountain man - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker Codes for Homeowners: Electrical Codes, Mechanical Codes, Plumbing Codes, Building Codes (Paperback) this is a very informative book that will keep the handyman out of trouble, it quickley skims over the most commen codes that a homeowner would run into. It is not very complete but that is to be expected. if it were an in depth book of all the codes it would need to be 100 times the size. I am a contractor and refur back to this book all the times on areas I dont normaly deal with. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , December 17, 2010

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  Great book with good information and lots of graphics

  I'm a homeowner and an engineer... I do work around my house (wiring, electrical, woodworking, etc) and consider myself fairly knowledgeable as a handyman. I'm confident that I do things safely, but what I don't always know are the standards... how high should this plug be mounted? What is the proper railing height for a stairwell?Another tip I found - you can replace an ungrounded outlet with a GFCI in order to get some protection against shorts. Never knew that.There is a ton of good information here. I'd recommend any homeowner that does projects around the house pick one of these up.Or even if you don't do projects yourself... this is a good reference book so you can check the work of contractors you hire. YOU need to be knowledgeable to make sure they don't screw up your house. 5/5 MK "MKOSU04" (Farmington Hills, MI) - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker Codes for Homeowners: Electrical Codes, Mechanical Codes, Plumbing Codes, Building Codes (Paperback) I'm a homeowner and an engineer... I do work around my house (wiring, electrical, woodworking, etc) and consider myself fairly knowledgeable as a handyman. I'm confident that I do things safely, but what I don't always know are the standards... how high should this plug be mounted? What is the proper railing height for a stairwell?Another tip I found - you can replace an ungrounded outlet with a GFCI in order to get some protection against shorts. Never knew that.There is a ton of good information here. I'd recommend any homeowner that does projects around the house pick one of these up.Or even if you don't do projects yourself... this is a good reference book so you can check the work of contractors you hire. YOU need to be knowledgeable to make sure they don't screw up your house. Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , March 9, 2011

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  List Price: $24.99
  

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  Black & Decker FSMVC 9.6-Volt to 18-Volt Slide Style Battery Charger

  Home Improvement (Black & Decker)
  

  Rating (201 reviews):

  (4.5/5)

  

  Charge time depends on the (18v) battery

  B&D Fast Chargers are great. But to avoid disappointment as expressed by some of the reviewers, it's important to note the following:B&D 18v batteries come in (at least) 3 varieties: 1.2, 1.5, and 2.1 ampere/hours. The 1.2 comes with most tools and has 2 terminals. The 1.5 (comes with some kits) and 2.1 "Silver Extreme" (sold as a "high performance" accessory) have 3 terminals - the third terminal apparently detects over charging.B&D chargers also come in (at least) 3 varieties:1) "Dumb" chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage, i.e., like the charger that comes with most B&D products that has the brick that plugs in the wall and a small piece that slips onto the battery; these have 2 terminals.2) "Semi-intelligent" 2 stage chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage for charging, but then drop to a "maintenance charge state". These also have 2 terminals.3) "Intelligent" fast chargers that charge at a faster rate, can... 5/5 RH - See all my reviews Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: Black & Decker FSMVC 9.6-Volt to 18-Volt Slide Style Battery Charger (Tools & Home Improvement) B&D Fast Chargers are great. But to avoid disappointment as expressed by some of the reviewers, it's important to note the following:B&D 18v batteries come in (at least) 3 varieties: 1.2, 1.5, and 2.1 ampere/hours. The 1.2 comes with most tools and has 2 terminals. The 1.5 (comes with some kits) and 2.1 "Silver Extreme" (sold as a "high performance" accessory) have 3 terminals - the third terminal apparently detects over charging.B&D chargers also come in (at least) 3 varieties:1) "Dumb" chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage, i.e., like the charger that comes with most B&D products that has the brick that plugs in the wall and a small piece that slips onto the battery; these have 2 terminals.2) "Semi-intelligent" 2 stage chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage for charging, but then drop to a "maintenance charge state". These also have 2 terminals.3) "Intelligent" fast chargers that charge at a faster rate, can... Read more Help other customers find the most helpful reviews  Was this review helpful to you? , October 29, 2008

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  Misleading product description

  I bought this charger based on the product description that says it will work with all B&D 18V slide style batteries. This is not true. It does not work with the 18V slide style batteries that come with certain B&D tool sets such as the Black & Decker #BDC318R-2 3PC 18V Drill Combo Kit. B&D customer support confirmed this false claim. I have no idea what other B&D tools have batteries that it wil not charge, however it does work with the batteries that come with Black & Decker 18-Volt Cordless Electric 12-Inch Grass Hog String Trimmer/Edger #NST2018. 1/5 A. Whaples - See all my reviews, September 19, 2008

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  Not Very Speedy on the large 18 Volt batteries.

  I have several B&D outdoor 18-volt products and the batteries wear out pretty fast. I wanted a charger that would charge one battery as I work with the others. The charge light blinks when it is charging and is steady when the battery if fully charged. The product description states "less than 90 minutes" for a complete charge.I have charged about a dozen 18V batteries with this charger. The average time from when the battery is first inserted until the blinking charge light goes steady indicating a full charge IS ABOUT 3 HOURS 15 MINUTES.Since this charger is made for 9.6 volt to 18 volt, I believe the "LESS THAN 90 MINUTES" is referring to the 9.6 volt batteries. The 18 volt batteries take more than twice that long.The stock black charger than came with the products takes about 6 hours to charge an 18 volt battery, so this charge IS faster -- about twice as fast. But the "less than 90 minutes" statement does not apply to the large 18 volt... 2/5 Moroni Marten (Utah) - See all my reviews, June 21, 2008

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  List Price: $49.60
  

  Charges batteries in under 90 minutes

  Charges 9.6, 12.0, 14.4, and 18-volt NiCad battery packs

  Includes a 2-year warranty

  Rough and tough plastic construction

  Weighs 14.7 ounces

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