Tool Box Buzz

Which One Is Better?  Viking Arm, Dewalt Jack or Irwin Quick-Lift

We received a lot of comments asking me to do a comparative analysis on the VIKING ARM, DEWALT TOUGHSERIES Construction Jack, and IRWIN QUICK-LIFT Construction Jack.

We can all agree that selecting the right tool for the job can significantly impact efficiency and precision. Up until recently I deployed many tactics to lift things from using fulcrums, air cushions and pry bars these new jacks can do is faster, easier and with less chance of damage to its surroundings.

These jacks are suitable for a wide range of applications such as: installing doors, windows, cabinet, flooring, HVAC equipment, framing, decking, and kitchen appliances to list a few. They can be used to lift or spread items all with controlled precision as well.

Based on the comparison, here’s a summarized analysis of the VIKING ARM, DEWALT TOUGHSERIES Construction Jack, and IRWIN QUICK-LIFT Construction Jack:

VIKING ARM

The VIKING ARM is the smallest of the 3 jacks we looked at. It has a lifting height at 8-1/4” [Dewalt is 8-5/8” and Irwin is 9- 13/16”] The Viking base is smaller than the other two bases and is less stable, almost a bit back heavy. Being smaller, it has a slightly smaller lifting plate.

The Viking has a lift capacity of up to 330 lbs. and BEST most precision lowering action of all three, with 1/32” increments. [Compared to Dewalt at 1/8” and Irwin at 3/16”] It also has the easiest lowering button.

Pros:

• Precision: Offers the most precise control with 1/32” incremental lowering.
• Materials: Made with high-quality stainless steel, hardened carbon steel, and aluminum.
• Weight: Lightest of the three at 1.4 kg (3.0 lbs).

Cons:

• Stability: Smaller base, which makes it less stable and a bit back-heavy.
• Lifting Capacity: Supports up to 330 lbs, which is slightly lower than DEWALT’s 340 lbs.
• Lifting Height: Shortest lift height at 8-1/4 inches.
The Dewalt and Irwin jacks are almost identical in size. Irwin lifts 1-inch higher but lowers 3/16 inch vs. Dewalt’s 1/8-inch.

DEWALT TOUGHSERIES Construction Jack

The Dewalt Construction Jack is a heavy-duty, hands-free lifting tool designed for a wide range of construction and remodeling applications.

Pros:

• Lifting Capacity: Highest at 340 lbs.
• Ergonomic Design: Step-to-lift handle allows for hands-free operation, which is more comfortable and leverages body weight for lifting.
• Stability: Countersunk holes provide additional support with 4 holes on the bottom and 2 on the top plate.

Cons:

• Precision: Less precise with 1/8” incremental lowering compared to VIKING ARM snd Irwin. the lowering seems a bit “jerky.”

IRWIN QUICK-LIFT Construction Jack

Of the three jacks the Irwin was the most difficult to lower smoothly. Its

Pros:

• • Lifting Height: Highest lift height at 9-13/16 inches.
• Precision:  Smooth 3/16” incremental lowering.
• Versatility: Designed for various lifting, leveling, holding, and installing applications.
•  Stability: Like DEWALT, it has countersunk holes for flush mounting with 4 holes on the bottom and 2 on the top plate.

Cons:

• Ease of Use: The no-load quick release can be stiff and not easy to actuate.
• Lifting Capacity: Same as VIKING ARM at 330 lbs.

Conclusion

Each jack has its strengths and is suitable for different needs:

• VIKING ARM is best for tasks requiring high precision and a compact tool.
• DEWALT TOUGHSERIES is ideal for heavy-duty tasks where lifting capacity and ergonomic design are crucial.
• IRWIN QUICK-LIFT offers a good balance of versatility and user comfort.

Whether you prioritize precision, heavy lifting capacity, or user-friendly design, all three of these jacks can meet your needs.

Jack Features and Spec Comparison

Weight Test

We put three construction jacks to a weight testby loading up a Smith Machine with a hefty 335 lbs.
Despite two of the jacks having a max weight rating of 330 lbs., we know manufacturers play it safe with those numbers.
All the jacks could lift the weight. The DEWALT jack came out as the star of the show, it was faster and easier to lift the weight with the simple power of pushing down using body weight.

On the other hand, the Viking Arm and Irwin jack demanded some serious hand strength with their squeeze action. Between the two, the Viking Arm had an edge, being easier to lift than the Irwin.

It was a showdown of strength, precision, and some good old-fashioned heavy lifting!

Which One Would We Choose?

The DEWALT TOUGHSERIES Construction Jack is the overall winner due to its superior lifting capacity, ergonomic step-to-lift handle, and stability, making it the most user-friendly and efficient tool among the three. If we were to offer DEWALT constructive criticism on the jack, I would be to improve the preciseness in raising and lowering.

Overall, well-done DEWALT!

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