Each year we make our pilgrimage to two major construction industry events. The International Builders' Show, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and The National Hardware Show in Chicago sponsored by the American Hardware Manufacturers Association. These shows draw companies from all over the world to introduce the latest and greatest in home and home construction products. Displays include everything from small tools to giant tractors. There is the latest in new faucet styles and electrical switches. Want to know the scoop on the latest trash? One can brush up on the most modern innovations in garbage disposals and trash compactors. From tools to trash contraptions, we're like kids in a candy store. We don't stop drooling until weeks after the shows are over.
Our latest foray was extremely fruitful as we made several new discoveries. Among them was a nifty new hanging gadget that is nothing more than a simple hook - as in something you hang things on. We still aren't sure whether to classify this one as a tool or a hardware item. The manufacturer has nicknamed it the studgrabber. They also refer to it as a hanging device and a utility hook.
With a conventional hook, attachment takes at least a minute or two depending on the type of connector required - screws, bolts nails, etc. The studgrabber, on the other hand, attaches in less than two seconds - by itself, without screws, bolts or nails. One end of the studgrabber is nothing more than a hook fashioned from heavy gauge wire, the other is a clamp that has sharpened tips designed to grab onto the sides of a 2x4 or a 2x6 (or any other 2x wood material). The more weight that is placed on the end of the hook, the tighter the studgrabber grips the wood. It is the perfect hanging device for unfinished garages, attics, basements and construction areas of all kinds - wherever framing members are exposed. Its design reminds us of a pair of escargot tongs. Squeeze on the sides of the hook section to open the clamp end, and simply release to initiate the spring-fed clamping action.
Although this hook is meant to be temporary, we think that it could also serve as a permanent storage device. Skis in the attic, fishing poles, a clothes pole or two. The studgrabber is perfect for angled connections like roof rafters, horizontal connections such as ceiling joist and vertical connections like wall studs. The angle of the framing member is irrelevant. The studgrabber works at every angle. We were amazed when we tried it the first time. Carpenters can use it to improve safety conditions. No more reaching or stretching to get to tools and supplies when framing up high or on a roof. Hanging heavy tools or a bag of supplies is no problem (each one will carry about 25 pounds). Four will hold a hundred. When the job is done the hook comes down as quickly as it was installed, a second or two. A 2x fence board is a great place to mount a new hose hook.
There are other uses, too. Hanging tools in the workshop, organizing garden tools and accessories, storing pool accessories and hoses, hanging toys, baby carriages, or skateboards in the garage and sports equipment and snowboards, to name a few.
We don't recommend the studgrabber for Christmas lights or picture frames, but when it comes to construction or out-of-the-way storage, this innovation is ideal. And, you won't be scared away by the price. In quantities of six expect to pay about a buck-and-a-half apiece. For 20, the unit price drops below a dollar.
