Apex Tool Group

Cockeysville, Md. – October 13, 2026 -- GEARWRENCH is entering the Power & Utility hand tool category with more than 50 tools across more than five product categories, built for power transmission and distribution professionals.

The lineup was developed with working linemen and validated through months of field testing. Hundreds of linemen took part in product testing and field evaluation, according to the company. The tools target underground, ground-level and overhead work.

Utility capacity and grid reliability pressures drive demand for specialized tools

Utilities face growing pressure to expand capacity, strengthen aging infrastructure and improve grid reliability. GEARWRENCH says demand for specialized tools is rising as a result. It also notes that safety requirements and jobsite practices have advanced significantly, while many tools used across the industry remain largely unchanged.

Charlotte, N.C. – September 20, 2026 -- Crescent has launched an expansion of its NITE EYE® measuring tool portfolio, adding levels and squares designed for low-light jobsite conditions.

Crescent adds high-contrast levels and squares to counter low-light measurement errors

The new Crescent® NITE EYE® Levels use enhanced vial visibility and aluminum construction to improve reading accuracy on tasks such as slope measurement, drainage layout, and material fitment. The Crescent® NITE EYE® Squares line features high-contrast markings, integrated rulers, scribe notches, and durable aluminum frames, offered in compact, extendable, and full-size formats for cutting, framing, and layout work.

Hunt Valley, Md. – September 16, 2026 -- GEARWRENCH has launched a three-product shop cleaning lineup targeting professional mechanics, expanding beyond its core hand tool business into hand and surface care.

GEARWRENCH introduces Heavy-Duty Hand Soap in two sizes for shop use

The Heavy-Duty Hand Soap ships in an 8 oz. handheld bottle and a 64 oz. refill size, formulated with finely ground pumice and natural clays to remove grease, oil and grime while reducing skin drying common with traditional mechanic soaps. The 64 oz. version includes a patented dispenser usable free-standing or wall-mounted for garage and shop settings.