Hilti is giving mechanical and electrical contractors the chance to get the job done faster, safer and smarter than before with the launch of the second-generation BX 3-ME 02 Cordless direct fastening tool .

Weighing just 3.8kg, the new tool’s weight-to-reach ratio allows it to fasten 400 nails per charge with the lighter and more compact 22 V, 2.6 Ah capacity battery, an improvement of more than 30% on the first-generation tool.

It has also improved the speed at which the tool works, allowing users to complete 1.3 fixings per second (FPS) into materials including high-strength concrete, concrete, steel and solid brick, which is also 30% faster.

The magazine – which contains 20 nails measuring up to 24mm in length – gives both a visual and audible alert when empty.

Designed to keep contact pressure, recoil and noise levels to a minimum, the BX 3-ME 02 has practically no vibration and remains virtually dust-free. What’s more, the tool works reliably on even the harshest jobsite conditions and has been proven to operate reliably down to -15°C.

Stefano Acquati, Product Manager for Cordless Direct Fastening at Hilti said: “Mechanical and electrical contractors embraced the original BX 3 as a true alternative to traditional fixing methods and witnessed huge savings in both time and safety. We have continued to learn from such an innovative tool and the time was right to improve it further still.

“The extra battery lifetime, direct fastening performance and health and safety benefits really put this product into its own class, what’s more, the tool is propellant-free meaning that operators don’t have the hassle of dealing with hazardous waste on the jobsite. All the more reason to make the switch to battery technology.”

As with all new Hilti power tools, the BX 3-ME 02 comes with Hilti Connect, an easy-to-use tool management app which connects to a smartphone or mobile device thanks to Bluetooth technology built into the tool.

The ‘smart functionality’ provides instant access to data including tool type, serial number, ownership, warranty, service and repair schedules and how-to videos as well as tracking the number of fixings and a ‘find-me’ mode in the event of it being mislaid.

The tool sits alongside the recently launched BX 3 02, which has been adapted for faster and quieter operations for the interior finishing trades.

Both tools are part of the Hilti 22 V cordless tool platform that consists of drill drivers, rotary hammers and angle grinders among other equipment. All Hilti 22 V batteries can be charged using the same charger and can power any of the tools in the range.