Corners need hugs, too
At first glance this Louisville FXS1500 Series Ladder looks like any other fiberglass step ladder, until you see the top, which has angled corners and a notch molded into it. This shape allows you to lean the folded ladder against inside and outside corners and posts without fear of sliding.
A latch keeps the ladder closed when used in this configuration; in the open position it works like any other step ladder. The aluminum steps are heavily braced and the top is equipped with slots and recesses for holding tools and fasteners.
Note the rubber bumpers and slots and recesses used to hold tools and fasteners.
Available in 4-12 foot sizes, these Type 1A (300 lb. rating) ladders go for between $100 and $325.
This is one of many tools/products that I found particularly cool, useful, interesting or all three at the National Hardware show last month in Las Vegas.
The show is where buyers from hardware stores, lumber yards, and home centers go to see the latest and greatest tools and products being pitched by the companies that make them.
The 2016 show was particularly good, with more interesting new tools and products than I have seen in years past. Some recently came out, some are scheduled for release later this year, and some are concepts in search of buyers—years away from being produced or fated to never be produced at all.
—David Frane is a freelance editor and a good buddy of ours. Formerly, he was editor of Tools of the Trade magazine and website. He lives in Northern California.
