TOOL TERMS, PLAINLY EXPLAINED
Plain-English definitions for tool specs, battery terms, accessories, and compatibility language, written to help you compare products without extra jargon.
Glossary
IP codes classify enclosure protection, laser classes identify potential beam hazards, and PPE is selected for a specific exposure. None is a universal quality or safety score.
Read guide
Glossary
One inch equals exactly 25.4 millimeters, but a rounded close size does not prove tool or fastener fit. Sandpaper grit numbers also require the grading system shown on...
Read guide
Glossary
Gauge is not one universal size system. AWG describes conductor size, NPT identifies a pipe-thread family, and nominal pipe size is not a direct outside-diameter measurement. Learn what...
Read guide
Glossary
A socket has a fastener size and a separate square-drive size. Fasteners add diameter, pitch or TPI, thread form, length, head, material, and grade. Learn how to read...
Read guide
Glossary
A saw blade must match more than diameter. Learn how arbor size, kerf, plate thickness, maximum RPM, rotation, tooth count, material, and the saw's guard or riving-knife system...
Read guide
Glossary
The chuck or collet holds an accessory by its shank; the drill-bit diameter describes the hole or cutting size. Learn why capacity, shank system, bit material, and tool...
Read guide
Glossary
Torque describes turning effect, while brushed and brushless describe motor construction. Learn how to compare in-lb, ft-lb, and N·m without assuming torque is speed or brushless is always...
Read guide
Glossary
RPM counts rotation, BPM and IPM count percussion events, SPM counts reciprocating strokes, and OPM counts oscillating movement. Learn why these maximum rates do not replace torque, impact...
Read guide
Glossary
CFM measures airflow volume, MPH measures air speed, and PSI measures pressure. SCFM adds a standard-condition reference for airflow. Learn which numbers belong together before comparing blowers, compressors,...
Read guide
Glossary
A battery platform is a documented tool-battery-charger system. A bare tool excludes the battery and charger, while a kit bundles selected components. Learn what physical fit and package...
Read guide
Glossary
Ah measures rated charge capacity, Wh measures rated energy, and runtime depends on the exact tool and conditions. Learn how nominal voltage and the battery/charger pairing affect a...
Read guide
Glossary
Volts describe electric potential difference, amps describe current, and watts describe power. Learn how AC and DC labels fit—and why none of these numbers alone proves runtime, torque,...
Read guide