While JBS Tools has built a massive reputation in the automotive industry, its ever-growing range of high-quality affordable equipment is being embraced by more Australian tradies every day, review and images by Jamie Gray.
Impressive design, construction and functionality is even enhanced by an equally impressive price range. In this tough test we have three unique products from the team at JBS: the 12-piece Metric Thru Tang Screwdriver Set, the four-piece Ergo Plier Set, and the Heavy-Duty Quick Action Clamp. The first two are part of the JBS ModPak range, and the kits come in three sizes, all of which fit perfectly in the awesome JBS chests and trollies. Nathan ‘Purlly’ Purll, installing an in-floor heating system, was happy to put the impact driver away for a bit and give the JBS products a good and nice workout.
TEST #1 12-PIECE METRIC THRU TANG SCREWDRIVER SET
This ergonomic, colour-coded set allows for excellent torque application with its comfort grips and hex shaft for high leverage. The Thru Tang shaft is manufactured from chrome-vanadium steel and includes a striking plate for tough jobs and TPV handles resistant to fluids commonly found in a mechanic’s workshop. Nathan was impressed. “These screwdrivers feel great in the hand,” he Phillips-headed. “The shape and texture of the grips promote comfort and control, allowing excellent power delivery. I used various-sized screws ranging from small to medium-sized Phillips screws, and the different-sized drivers performed extremely well.”
TEST #2 4 PIECE ERGO PLIER SET
This set is made up of the 180mm diagonal Cutting Plier, 150mm Long Nose Plier, the 259mm Water Pump Plier and the 180mm Combination Plier. All inclusions sport ergonomic dual-composite handles for user comfort, making them ideal for maintenance, repairs, and installations for many trades. The high-leverage feature requires less effort and reduces fatigue. “As a plumber, pliers are an essential tool for many tasks,” piped up Purlly.
“Long-nose pliers are perfect for reaching washers and other hard-to-reach items. I would think it’s pretty safe to say a good set of long-nose pliers and combination or multi-grip pliers are an absolute must for all self-respecting tradies. “Again, it’s the grip and leverage of these hand tools, along with the overall build quality and materials used, that marks these pliers as standout products. You can feel the quality in every pair.”
THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY
For almost 30 years JBS has built its reputation by putting quality tools into the hands of Australians to get the tough jobs done fast and well. The Heavy-Duty Quick Action Clamp, with its 300mm jaw and 140mm throat, is another such product – a truly heavy-duty clamp that will last a lifetime. Carpenters, builders, plumbers and similar tradies will all enjoy the build quality and design of not just the Quick Action Clamp, but the entire JBS catalogue. The JBS brand has consistently delivered uncompromising quality at a price accessible to the everyday Australian. The new look and feel of the JBS brand aligns with customers’ expectations of the high quality of every single JBS product. •