Switchdriver 2-in-1 Cordless Drill and Driver
The Worx WX176L ($90) is a cordless drill and driver combination with one peculiarity: you can mount two drill bits at once, and switch between them in a quick, single gesture. I bough mine on a whim...
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Klein 10-in-1 Screwdriver
This 10-in-1 screwdriver/nut driver ($15) has a soft, cushioned grip wrapped around a hard and solid handle, making all day use no problem. And, because of its design, changing bits can be done super...
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ItzaGasCan
This disposable fiberboard container ($15) folds flat and has a bladder that can hold a gallon of gas (about 14″ by 6″ by 2″). I’ve yet to have a car emergency, but I’ve used it for a prosaic fill-up...
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Soma Cube
I learned of Soma Cubes years ago and continue to play with the 7 shapes when looking for something to do. They might be compared to Tangrams which are a 2D puzzle while Soma is a 3D puzzle. Soma cubes...
View ArticleBucket Boss Parachute Bag
This time we’re looking at the Bucket Boss parachute bag ($15). Until recently, I’ve not had a great way for organizing screws. I’d buy them, bring them home in a box, and then put that box in a...
View ArticleCrocs Flip Flops
The best flip flop ($25) in my opinion. Using them now for over 5 years, they are made of the same plastic that Crocs are and this makes them the only flip flops that don’t get slippery and slimy when...
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Body Back Buddy
I recently discovered a better-designed variation of the Thera-Cane that’s perfect for loosening up tight back, neck and shoulder muscles. The Body Back Buddy ($30) has a total of 11 knobs (the...
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Theodore Gray, co-founder of Wolfram Research
Our guest this week is Theodore Gray. Theodore is the co-founder of Wolfram Research, makers of Mathematica and Wolfram|Alpha. He’s also the founder of App publisher Touch Press and the author of many...
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Ritz Mitz Pot Holders
Ritz Terry Cloth “Ritz Mitz” potholders simply work. Inexpensive, sturdy and washable. I use cast iron pans almost exclusively which means that the handles get really hot, especially when they go from...
View ArticleValley of Genius/Inside AI/Fry Daddy
Silicon Valley oral history A new book I am enjoying is Valley of Genius — an oral history of Silicon Valley. The entire book, compiled by Adam Fisher, is the recollections of those who were there,...
View ArticleDouble D-Ring Belt with 1-Inch Flat Nylon Webbing
I don’t like belts. I understand their purpose, and I’ve certainly come to appreciate their utility as my middle-aged waist has expanded and butt has shrunk. But as a backpacker, I can’t tolerate a...
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OpenX Dual-Blade Package Opener
When it comes to cutting into thick, rigid plastic packages, it’s tough to rely on scissors. Knives slip on the plastic and can be more dangerous. The clever feature of OpenX ($4) is that there are two...
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Tipke Fold-it Utility Cart
This nifty, lightweight (33 lbs.) garden cart ($225) will fit into any spare cranny in the garden shed or garage. It folds into a long, slender package about six inches wide at the wheel hubs, and...
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Stanley Tripod Flashlight
I replaced my D battery Mag-Light with this small LED tripod light that only needs AAA batteries. I get whiter light, longer life, and more intensity. Tripod lights have always been great tools (I work...
View ArticleKlutch Angle Grinder Holder
This week I’m going to show you an angle grinder holder made by Klutch. I got this for around $26 on Amazon, it’s a unique way to cut metal, and you can pick this same one up by using the Amazon link...
View ArticleA TV For Lazy People [Maker Update #88]
This week on Maker Update, a TV for lazy people, a Lego Crickit rover, milk jug skulls, an EL nixie clock, a boat, a box, a rock tumbler, LED holders, and Tinkercad’s new Fusion feature. Show notes...
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Storm Whistle
I found this incredibly loud whistle while putting together a disaster preparedness kit for my car. I did some non-scientific testing against my Fox 40 (rated 115 decibels) by having my son blow into...
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Rose Eveleth, Podcast Producer
Our guest this week is Rose Eveleth. Rose is a Rose Eveleth. Rose is a writer and producer based in Berkeley who explores how humans tangle with science and technology. She’s the creator and host of...
View ArticleErasable highlighters/Death of Stalin/Smallpdf
Erasable highlighters These erasable highlighter pens really work as advertised, at least on non-glossy books. The eraser is smooth and by rubbing on the paper, it produces heat, which causes the...
View ArticleWater Rover
The Water Rover is about the best dual-function water bottle for dogs I’ve ever used: it has its own bowl, which remains attached to the bottle when you fill it. The whole rig lays flat on the ground...
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