Finding a tool that not only works well for you, but helps you to produce your best work is not an easy task. Every professional and DIY enthusiast has their favourite tool, and when it’s time to replace that piece of equipment, nothing seems to work quite as well. So if there is a chance that you can prolong the life of your tools, then you can put off that fateful day when you have to replace your favourite piece of equipment. Sharpening your tools is one known way to increase the lifespan of your tool and is a process that is quick and easy, once you have had a few tries. You may think that an expert is needed as there are always fears of doing it wrong your first time, but with the right information and equipment, sharpening your tools yourself could save you both time, money and tool replacement in the long-run. Why is it Important to Sharpen Your Tools? You probably already know that blunt tools make for much harder work and results in a lower quality finish – but this isn’t the only reason you should look to sharpen them. When using your tools, the action of grinding them against another material results in swarfs being transferred to your tool. For example, when you use a chisel, excess material from the surface you are chiselling sticks to your tool; making it look blunt and your life a lot harder. Removing the excess swarf when sharpening your tools makes for healthier tools and an easier DIY experience. Sharpening your Tools with Stones This may sound a bit caveman-esque but when it comes to sharpening your tools, stones can be used again and again to provide a cost-effective and productive way to extend the lifespan. If you are considering using sharpening stones then you will need to choose between oil, water and diamond stones. It’s important to choose the best stone to suit your needs; water stones tend to wear quickly so may not be suitable within certain industries. For more information on how to sharpen knives with these stones, please see this guide. This applies to both household, industrial and gardening tools and by using the correct stone you will get a sharp edge with minimum fuss. Sharpening your Tools with Sandpaper Using sandpaper is another option for sharpening your tools; it’s quick, it’s effective and it doesn’t break the bank. Sandpaper comes in a range of grits so you can choose the best material to meet your needs – it is also extremely accessible, with a range of options available on eBay. Clean Tools are Effective Tools Sharpening your tools without cleaning them can make things significantly more difficult for you as it means that your stones have to sift through layers of grime and rust before getting to your tool. This will mean continual and prolonged effort on your part instead of taking a few simple steps to clean them and make the whole process a lot easier. After you have finished the cleaning process it is important to use a good quality oil which will help prevent any rusting. Keeping well maintained tools means that you will be able to use them again and again, while regularly cleaning your tools with reduce the need to sharpen then so often. So fear not when taking your first steps to sharpening your tools. Perhaps begin with sandpaper as this is easy to source and is relatively cheap, before branching out into other sources once you begin to feel more confident. Editorial originally features on the Trend Direct UK blog.

Making impressive inroads into the UK workwear and PPE market is Danish company F. Engel, one of Europe’s leading workwear manufacturers; UK workforces are now recognising Engel for its high quality, long lasting and superbly fitting clothing ranges and their suitability for almost any kind of work situation or outdoor use. Heading up the wide choice of brands under the Engel banner is the COMBAT collection which includes the Engel COMBAT ‘Tradesman’ work trousers with hanging tool pockets (2761-630) and the COMBAT Pilot jacket (232-107). Designed for action to give maximum comfort and flexibility, both items have the brand’s instantly recognisable contrast stitching and reflective piping and are offered in a choice of colours. The work trousers have been designed to be as practical and useful as possible with many functional and easily accessible pockets including a Cordura hanging tool pocket either side and thigh pockets with flaps. In addition there are two flapped back pockets, a reinforced ruler pocket with extra sections, an adjustable hammer strap and Cordura reinforced knee pockets with two knee pad positions. The trousers have an extra deep hem so the length can be increased if required. Made from 65% polyester, 35% cotton, 280 g/m2 and available in a wide range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit. Often sold alongside matching trousers, is the COMBAT pilot jacket. Made from 100% Oxford Polyester with PU coating 260g/m2 with a quilted nylon lining and soft fleece collar, the jacket has pockets for almost every purpose throughout the working day so that everything is kept both safe and to hand when needed. It has adjustable cuffs with Velcro, a storm placket and a detachable hood with zipper. All Engel garments are available from The Workwear Trade Centre, Milton Keynes; Telephone: 01908 561569; email: sales@wtc-workwear.co.uk and Anchor Safety, Ipswich; Telephone: 0800 328 5028; email: sales@anchorsafety.co.uk For more information visit: http://www.fe.dk/en/ email: Mark McBrayne at mmc@f-engel.com or telephone: +44 (0) 7933 150197

Redbacks Cushioning Limited, the manufacturers of the World’s only patented, ‘leaf-spring’, non-foam or gel kneepads, has introduced a new strapped version as an addition to its original, big-selling product for pocketed work trousers. Designed, overseen and approved by a senior Ergonomist, Clinical Scientist and Biomedical Engineer, the new product retains the company’s award winning cushioning technology which incorporates a flexible TPE (Thermo Plastic Elastomer) leaf-spring set within a unique honeycomb matrix. Elasticated, soft Neoprene straps which have dust and particle resistant fastenings, allow the kneepads to be worn on bare skin without chafing, or over trousers, and ensure that they stay in the correct position when kneeling, walking or sitting. The pads have a water-resistant covering and a soft breathable, inner fabric that wicks away sweat whilst providing thermal protection from warm or cold surfaces. Scientifically proven to reduce point pressure and distribute weight evenly, the impact forces associated with kneeling are absorbed giving added protection against back and neck pain. Durable and hardwearing, Redbacks strapped kneepads give the user unrivalled, all-day comfort and long-term protection even in the most harsh environments. For more information and to order visit www.redbackscushioning.com   email: or info@redbackscushioning.com   or telephone: + 44 (0) 1327 702104

Caterpillar has reported a 15% decline in global revenues for 2015 and a 40% fall in profits. Caterpillar Inc made revenues of US$47.0bn (£32bn) in 2015, down from $55.2bn the previous year. Profit per share fell from $5.88 in 2014 to $3.50 for 2015. Total profits fell from $3.7bn for 2014 to $2.1bn for 2015. The two most significant reasons for the decline were weakening economic growth and substantially lower commodity prices. Caterpillar was particularly hit by the slowdown in previously booming Brazil and China. Faced with the fall in sales, Caterpillar spent $908m on restructuring the business in 2015, which was a major cause of the hit on profits. Chairman and chief executive Doug Oberhelman said: “Cost management, restructuring actions and operational execution are helping the company while sales and revenues remain under pressure from weak commodity prices and slowing economic growth in developing countries.  We took tough but necessary restructuring actions in 2015 – and they were significant.  I am proud that our team stayed focused on our customers in this difficult environment.  Our balance sheet is strong; our product quality remained at high levels; we gained market position for machines for the fifth year in a row; inventory levels have declined and are well positioned as we look forward to 2016; and our safety levels are world class.  We are benefiting now and expect to even more in the future when markets rebound.” No improvement is expected in 2016.  The company expects its sales and revenues to be in a range of $40bn to $44bn. Sales in construction industries are expected to decline about 5 to 10 percent from 2015.  In the United States, improving labour market conditions and relatively stable economic growth should continue to support the wider economy and construction, Caterpillar said.  However, it expects continuing weakness in developing countries and lower activity in oil-producing regions. Mr Oberhelman concluded: “Our outlook reflects struggling oil and other commodity markets, and continued economic weakness in developing countries.  While the U.S. and European economies are showing signs of stability, the global economy remains under pressure.  While we manage through these difficult economic times with substantial restructuring actions to lower costs, we are also preparing for the long term.  We are continuing substantial investments in R&D and our digital capabilities.  These investments will be positive for Caterpillar and our customers through connected fleets and jobsites and access to data and predictive analytics.  Investing in the future is important to improving productivity and the bottom line – for Caterpillar and our customers over the long term.  While it is tough to predict when an economic recovery will happen, the investments we are making and the actions we are taking to lower our cost structure and improve quality and our market position will help deliver better results when a recovery comes.”  

For more than 110 years STANLEY® has maintained brand name recognition for manufacturing products with good value and even better quality. With every product, STANLEY® continues to design tools that last a lifetime and help get the job done right- STANLEY® screwdrivers are no different. STANLEY® offers ratcheting, multi-bit, and standard screwdrivers that make completing the task at hand fast and easy. If you’re looking to save time STANLEY®’s ratcheting screwdrivers are just what you need. STANLEY®’s ratcheting screwdrivers are designed with a 4:1 gear ratio for driving up to four times faster than traditional screwdrivers. These screwdrivers are also easy to use with their bi-material grips for great torque and anti- slipping. In addition, the ratcheting mechanism makes forward and reverse driving a breeze. Rely on STANLEY® multi-bit screwdrivers to make life simple and to get the job done with a little speed. STANLEY® multi-bit screwdrivers provide convenience and accessibility- everything you need can be stored in the internal bit storage handle. Multi-bit screwdrivers offer easy access to bits as well as fast changeover which make these screwdrivers indispensable to your toolbox, workbench, or tool belt. STANLEY® standard screwdrivers have plenty to appreciate as well. DIYers benefit from the value and quality in each standard screwdriver. For example, the quad or four sided handles are great for better tip torque. In addition, quad handles are anti-roll so users don’t have to worry about these screwdrivers rolling away or rolling off the ladder when working. The cushion grip style offers a great feel and tip identification provides users with fast and easy selection with each color type. Another plus, some standard screwdrivers are designed with vinyl grip for users in the automotive and/or chemical industry. These screwdrivers are great when working with corrosive materials. For users who love a bit of innovation, try STANLEY® FatMax® Simulated Diamond Tip Screwdrivers. Many screwdrivers take a beating over time and become less effective at staying seated in screws. STANLEY® FatMax® Simulated Diamond Tip Screwdrivers offer longer tip life than standard screwdrivers and are encrusted with simulated diamond sand composite to help bite into screws for easy driving and screw removal. Color coded handles also make it quick and easy to choose the right screwdriver size for the project at hand.

For more than 110 years STANLEY® has maintained brand name recognition for manufacturing products with good value and even better quality. With every product, STANLEY® continues to design tools that last a lifetime and help get the job done right- STANLEY® screwdrivers are no different. STANLEY® offers ratcheting, multi-bit, and standard screwdrivers that make completing the task at hand fast and easy. If you’re looking to save time STANLEY®’s ratcheting screwdrivers are just what you need. STANLEY®’s ratcheting screwdrivers are designed with a 4:1 gear ratio for driving up to four times faster than traditional screwdrivers. These screwdrivers are also easy to use with their bi-material grips for great torque and anti- slipping. In addition, the ratcheting mechanism makes forward and reverse driving a breeze. Rely on STANLEY® multi-bit screwdrivers to make life simple and to get the job done with a little speed. STANLEY® multi-bit screwdrivers provide convenience and accessibility- everything you need can be stored in the internal bit storage handle. Multi-bit screwdrivers offer easy access to bits as well as fast changeover which make these screwdrivers indispensable to your toolbox, workbench, or tool belt. STANLEY® standard screwdrivers have plenty to appreciate as well. DIYers benefit from the value and quality in each standard screwdriver. For example, the quad or four sided handles are great for better tip torque. In addition, quad handles are anti-roll so users don’t have to worry about these screwdrivers rolling away or rolling off the ladder when working. The cushion grip style offers a great feel and tip identification provides users with fast and easy selection with each color type. Another plus, some standard screwdrivers are designed with vinyl grip for users in the automotive and/or chemical industry. These screwdrivers are great when working with corrosive materials. For users who love a bit of innovation, try STANLEY® FatMax® Simulated Diamond Tip Screwdrivers. Many screwdrivers take a beating over time and become less effective at staying seated in screws. STANLEY® FatMax® Simulated Diamond Tip Screwdrivers offer longer tip life than standard screwdrivers and are encrusted with simulated diamond sand composite to help bite into screws for easy driving and screw removal. Color coded handles also make it quick and easy to choose the right screwdriver size for the project at hand.

Brushless Technology is here and it’s taking the DIY Market by storm! The #1 consumer power tools system just got a whole lot better! Ryobi’s ONE+ System always pride themselves on producing the best products with the most innovative technology year on year and once again, Ryobi have designed a drill which can do more! BRUSHLESS technology is a major breakthrough for consumer tools and here are the benefits:   • Up to 40% more runtime • Up to 20% more power • Up to 10X more durable   Ryobi’s BRUSHLESS drills will deliver previously unseen levels of power, runtime and durability to help the DIY’er do more and do it quicker.   “Our global team of engineers have packed this drill with the most advanced technology available to DIY’ers. We are confident users will love it!” says Dan Arthurs, Product Manager for Ryobi.   Ryobi’s new BRUSHLESS drills are packed with the latest innovative technologies. It’s not just a new motor, there’s an on board computer that controls the highly sophisticated electronics, state of the art Lithium+ battery technology and an electronically controlled clutch. The combination of these innovative technologies working together optimises the tools output to deliver a huge performance increase. How it Works BRUSHLESS motors have no brushes, and thus no physical contact that could lead to frictional energy losses. Instead the motor is turned inside out with permanent neo magnets spinning and advanced electronic controls charging electromagnetic coils around them. BRUSHLESS motors are also incredibly good at heat dispersal. The motor is no longer contained inside a metal can; instead BRUSHLESS drills use a frameless construction inside the drill housing to hold the motor in place. The copper windings (which get really hot) are now nearer the air vents and it’s easier for heat to dissipate.   Add in to the equation the more compact design which allows for a larger fan and it’s easy to understand how the motor runs cooler and lasts longer. Power and efficiency savings in BRUSHLESS motors allows for a more powerful, durable, compact and ergonomic drill overall. BRUSHLESS is intelligent technology. It works by using electronics to control the motor, instead of relying on physical connections. The rotor is made from permanent neo magnets which are smaller and twice as powerful. With BRUSHLESS you can get more performance out of a smaller tool!   Switching to a BRUSHLESS motor doesn’t automatically boost a tool’s performance. The motor, electronics and battery technology all need to work together in a highly refined system to achieve the power and runtime increases which users crave. The key to unlocking this added performance is very complex electronic controls. Not all BRUSHLESS drills are the same (even if their motors are similar) as the level of sophistication in the electronic system dictates the performance of the tool.     Runtime Traditional brushed motors have carbon brushes in them, energy flows through them in physical contact with the rotor which spins. This causes heat, sparking and friction; Brushes waste energy and eventually wear out. BRUSHLESS is designed to do so much more!   The precise computerized control of the motor has huge runtime benefits. Drills can be optimised for maximum efficiency during common DIY applications. This is where the BRUSHLESS drills really deliver! When you upgrade to a BRUSHLESS drill, you can drill 397 16mm holes compared to 276* holes using the same battery on a brushed drill! Ryobi’s ONE+ system gives users the tools to get more done per charge!   Speaking to Dan Arthurs, Product Manager for Ryobi he tells us how TTi has always invested heavily in electronics and is a key area of expertise for them. They are in a great strategic position to apply a global team of engineers with huge amount of expertise to develop BRUSHLESS for the consumer. In use is where you really feel the benefit of BRUSHLESS technology as he goes on to say: “Our advanced electronics constantly monitor and fine tune performance depending on the application, which means a top line increase in max torque AND a real difference in performance which is what really matters to our users.”   That’s why Ryobi BRUSHLESS technology is such a breakthrough! ONE+ System Included in Ryobi’s BRUSHLESS range are a new compact Drill Driver and Percussion Drill which are also new additions to Ryobi’s ONE+ System where 1 battery powers over 40 power and garden tools. To find out more please visit our Ryobi TV YouTube channel to view the BRUSHLESS Playlist or visit

The company that pioneered the world’s first chainsaw is joining forces with the Forestry Commission to help train the next generation of foresters. STIHL has announced that it will sponsor the 2015 Forestry Commission England Apprentice Programme, supplying 14 apprentices with the tools and safety equipment they will need for their two years of training. The programme will equip them with skills crucial for the management of the UK’s forests, enabling them to make an important contribution to rural communities. More than 1,000 people applied to join the Apprentice Programme, and the successful applicants will now be trained in every area of forestry work including health and safety, pollution control, clearing, tree felling, planting and fencing. STIHL is supporting the programme by supplying each of the 14 apprentices with: STIHL MS 261 C-M chainsaw STIHL C-M clearing saw STIHL protective clothing Ian Gambles, Forestry Commission Director for England, says the programme is a fabulous opportunity and teaming up with STIHL makes perfect sense all round: “There could soon be a shortage of foresters as much of the current labour force begins to retire. This programme will give these young people the best training available, teaching all the fundamental skills to put them in prime position for future job opportunities. There is no other programme like this in the country. Forest management and tree felling are highly-skilled activities and we must always remember the importance of well-maintained and reliable tools alongside quality protective equipment to ensuring a job well done and getting home safely.” Rory Stewart, Rural Affairs Minister, said: “Forests and woodland are one of the most precious elements of our natural heritage. I am delighted that the 2015 Forestry Commission England Apprentice Programme will help ensure the forestry sector has a passionate and skilled workforce for the future. Increasing the number of apprentices is also a key pledge of the Government’s Rural Productivity Plan – designed to harness the enormous economic potential England’s rural areas have to offer – for the prosperity and benefit of everyone in the UK. This is fantastic news.” Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing at STIHL GB, says the decision to support the initiative was an easy one. “STIHL is committed to encouraging a thriving and enduring forestry sector in Britain, and we are proud to support this scheme that will bring valuable and skilled newcomers into the industry.  We wish all the new apprentices the best in their future careers.” The new agreement builds on STIHL’s 2014 Forestry Commission Apprenticeship of the Year sponsorship, which rewarded apprentice Cameron Williams for his efforts on last year’s programme. More information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk.