The Hardware Man - They Didn’t Take the Work Gloves
- Editor
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Howdy folks,
We had a little trouble around town a couple of weeks ago when a shop truck at a mill was stolen. This kind of event is always disturbing and leaves one feeling very violated and vulnerable. Whether it happens to a business or a homeowner, the feeling never changes. The type of vermin who feels it is acceptable to steal to make a quick buck on market place, to feed a habit, or simply for revenge need to be removed from society.
While authorities try to locate and recover property as well as the perpetrators, they can easily become overwhelmed cause of the scale of some organized operations. In one way, I would hope that the thieves are simply transient, who detoured off the interstate and continued their run, because I have a much better expectation of those around our neighborhood. As the mill manager stated, “They didn’t take the work gloves”.
Recovering from a hit like this is always difficult. You know what tools you absolutely need, and you need them now, before insurance settles. I appreciate that the manager came to us to fulfill their tool needs and that we were able to have what they required. As a Milwaukee Tool dealer, we were able to compare their list against current promotions, which guarantee competitive prices with the Big Box stores.
While shopping, we did get into a conversation about technology in tools that are providing value to users in everyday use. Milwaukee Tools introduced their One-Key system in 2015, and it has improved since to allow asset tracking of power tools as well as customized settings such as torque or speed. As part of a growing IoT (Internet of Things) community that includes devices such as Apple AirTags, a tool with One-Key can ping with a Bluetooth-enabled device and send a location pin or receive a disable command. Asset tracking can identify tool ownership, usage, and maintenance statistics as well as geofencing alerts or remote kill switches if the unit disappears. The embedded chip has its own battery that will transmit even without the larger unit battery.
Other tool manufacturers are starting to provide similar features, including DeWalt Tool Connect and Metabo, with a GPS tracker for asset recovery. Milwaukee also offers standalone tags that can be installed on other assets for tracking, such as ladders, trailers, or PackOut systems.
On one hand, Asset Tracking and Loss Prevention can carry a negative connotation, but when used in conjunction with problems such as theft or maintenance, knowing the details on each unit makes claims much easier. If you are considering upgrading or replacing, let us help you navigate the many options, deals, and features available. Local stores are better at service than big boxes any day.
In closing, if you are aware of someone’s sudden unexplained gain of used tools and think they may be stolen property, see something, say something.
Daniel Karns and his wife own Clintonville Hardware & Rental along with other businesses. Join the discussion by contacting him at info@clintonvillehardware.com.