Apex Tool Group (Booth #6617) Unveils New Crescent(R), Lufkin(R) and Weller(R) Product Introductions at National Hardware Show

New Tools and Line Extensions Deliver Real Innovation for Professionals and DIYers


LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwired - May 7, 2013) - Apex Tool Group, a global hand and power tool company, launched several new professional and do-it-yourself tools from its leading brands, including Crescent®, Lufkin® and Weller® at the 2013 National Hardware Show.

The Latest from Crescent
Crescent unveiled a variety of new hand tools and line extensions including its Pivot Pro™ Pliers, X6™ Series 4-in-1 Double Box Ratcheting Wrench, X6 Series Pass-Thru Ratchet and Socket System, Flip and Grip Wrench and Lighted Adjustable Wrench.

The Pivot Pro Pliers feature a unique pivot point in the center of the body, allowing for additional leverage, delivering nearly double the force of standard pliers. The Pivot Pro Pliers require 40 percent less force to cut through items such as heavy-gauge electrical wires and cables. Unlike other pliers that are unable to cut some cables and require two-handed force, Crescent Pivot Pro Pliers are easy to use with one hand and have added grip, enhancing end user comfort. They are an ideal tool, whether working on a simple at-home task or large renovation project.

Crescent also expanded its popular X6 Series with the introduction of the 4-in-1 Double Box Ratcheting Wrench. The special X6 design allows the wrenches to work on six different types of fasteners, including square, hex and spline. The two-piece double-ended set can then turn eight different sizes of each type, making this a truly versatile tool. In addition, the ratcheting action lets you turn nuts and bolts without ever removing the wrench. The sleek design allows end users to comfortably apply more torque when working on tough jobs. The set is available in both SAE and metric sizes.

Also new, the X6 Series Pass-Thru Ratchet and Socket System eliminates the need for two sets of sockets. The X6 system offers exceptional versatility with an innovative, compact design that grips six different types of fasteners. The X6 Pass-Thru Ratchet and Socket System offers the shortest stack-height on the market, providing unparalleled performance in tight spaces. 

Additionally, Crescent launched its new Flip and Grip Two-Piece Wrench Set and Lighted Adjustable Wrench. The Flip and Grip features a unique pivoting jaw that fits over 50 sizes or types of fasteners, and helps reach around obstacles and into tight spaces for numerous projects at-home or on the job. Its spring-loaded design allows for faster ratcheting action and the wrench head folds neatly into the handle for convenient storage and transport. The cutting-edge Lighted Adjustable Wrench provides an LED light source on both sides of the tool, illuminating the work area and making it much easier to perform tasks in dark, confined spaces. 

"We continuously strive to develop new tools that address the diverse needs of our customers," said Griffin Biering, product manager for Crescent. "Many of our new Crescent products offer revolutionary technology and are industry first innovations that deliver exceptional value."

What's New from Lufkin
Introduced at last year's show, the Lufkin Control Series tape is now available for purchase. The Lufkin Control Series is a rugged tape that offers the perfect combination of grip and comfort for professional and DIY users. A unique opening in the bottom of the case allows users to regulate the feed and return of the tape with their finger for greater control. An integrated tether or wrist strap ring helps prevent drops and injuries, and the 10-foot stand-out capacity and extra-wide end hook make it perfect for any job.

"The control of this tape is unmatched in the industry," said Tobias Bridges, product manager for Lufkin. "The tape feels more like an extension of your arm than a hand tool."

New Products from Weller
Weller unveiled its new high performance consumer soldering irons for DIY and hobbyist applications. Three on-board LEDs provide significant application lighting with minimum tip shadowing, setting these irons apart from others on the market. A focused light beam allows users to solder more accurately.

The new Weller irons were developed in response to the resurgence in consumer hand soldering, a trend driven by the popularity of various DIY and hobbyist applications, including remote control vehicles, PC modification and the Arduino® single-board microcontroller.

"This new family of irons addresses the needs of many artists, crafters and designers who see soldering as an art requiring extreme focus, patience and precision," said Glenn Schindo, director of sales and marketing for Weller North America. "We're pleased to now offer consumers high-performance irons that provide superior ergonomics and allow for better positioning and maximum control."

National Hardware Show attendees can demo any of the above products by visiting the Apex Tool Group booth (#6617) in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

About Apex Tool Group
Apex Tool Group, LLC, based in Sparks, Md., is one of the largest worldwide producers of hand and power tools, tool storage, drill chucks, chain and electronic soldering products. Directly and through its subsidiaries, Apex serves a multitude of global markets, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, energy, hardware, industrial and consumer retail. Apex markets its portfolio of diverse products under its own brand names in addition to being the principal manufacturer for several key private label products for certain retailers for many years. Additional information about Apex Tool Group is available at www.apextoolgroup.com.

About Crescent
Crescent is a premier hand tool brand from Apex Tool Group, one of the largest hand tool manufacturers in the world. The Crescent Tool Company introduced the original adjustable wrench in the early 1900s, which in effect replaced an entire set of dedicated- size wrenches. It quickly became and continues to be one of the most essential tools in the toolbox. In fact, Charles Lindbergh was quoted saying he carried only "gasoline, sandwiches, a bottle of water and a Crescent wrench and pliers" on his famous 1927 solo transatlantic flight. Today, the Crescent line has expanded beyond adjustable wrenches to include a wide selection of pliers, ratcheting wrenches, screwdrivers and tool sets. For more information visit www.apexhandtools.com/crescent.

About Lufkin
Lufkin is a premier measuring products brand from Apex Tool Group, one of the largest hand tool manufacturers in the world. Tough Lufkin® tapes and rules have been providing precise measurements for professionals and do-it-yourselfers for over 100 years. Today, tough "Hi-Viz Orange" Lufkin retractable tapes are recognized the world over. Whatever the measuring job, those who know reach for Lufkin. Additional information about Lufkin products is available online at www.apexhandtools.com.

About Weller
Weller is the premier soldering brand from Apex Tool Group, one of the largest hand tool manufacturers in the world. Since 1959 Weller has stood for innovations in soldering and today the company continues leading the way with application solutions to complex electronics manufacturing challenges. Revolutionary Weller engineering has extended tip life and investments in battery soldering technology have yielded cordless, portable products that offer increased performance with extended battery life. Weller tools play a role in the manufacture of electronics innovations around the world. For more information visit www.apexhandtools.com/weller.

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