Gear For Pilots, July 2019

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The GoTow tow bar provides a helpful source of assistance when an airplane needs to be moved from a hangar or other location. The product relies on a drill of 18V or higher to power movement, and it features a standing platform for operators that can accommodate individuals of up to 270 pounds. While stationed upon the platform, users provide the weight needed for the wheel to move, and the steerable wheel allows them to manipulate the direction of movement as needed. With a drill set on low power, the towbar moves an aircraft 12 feet per minute, while a drill set on high power will allow the towbar to cover 42 feet per minute.

The height of the tow bar is adjustable, and the product features dual wheels on the rear and two carrying handles for easy assembly and movement.

The GoTow works for a variety of different aircraft, including Cirrus, Cessna, Vans, Beechcraft and other models.

The product costs $1,695, while the drill must be purchased separately.

Learn more at sportys.com.

The mechanical model maker company known as Time for Machine recently debuted the newest addition to its collection of metal models, an airplane dubbed "Heavenly Hercules." The model is based on the Spruce Goose, a massive wooden airplane built by the Hughes Company for transatlantic transport in the World War II era that flew just once, in 1947.

Similar to the Spruce Goose, Heavenly Hercules features a hull underbelly and eight propellers that move in tandem thanks to a mechanical mechanism contained in the model's base. Like other Time for Machine Models, which came to life as the result of a Kickstarter campaign, Heavenly Hercules models are made of thin, malleable metal that can be bent by hand. The model is 300 times smaller than the actual airplane built in the 1940s.

Heavenly Hercules buyers also have the option of including an engraving of up to 12 characters on the model. The model is available for a Kickstarter pledge of $84 or more.

Learn more at kickstarter.com.

For hangars or workspaces that can get quite heated in the summer months, the new Pivot 2.0 from Big Ass Fans offers a way to cool down. Measuring 6 feet in diameter and featuring a durable steel cage, the Pivot 2.0 can project cool air up to as far as 120 feet, making it a great option for large spaces.

The fan features 73 different flow settings, enabling users to manage the direction of air movement to their liking. It can be mounted in various configurations as well, including on the ceiling or a beam or column.

The fan comes with a five-year warranty.

Learn more at bigassfans.com.

This multi-tool from Malboro & Kane brings new meaning to the word "compact." Weighing little more than half an ounce and at a size that's smaller than a penny, the Claw is a super tiny tool made of grade 5 titanium. Shaped as its name suggests, the claw contains a bottle opener and a small flat-head screwdriver, as well as a flint striker. Its uses also extend to other tasks, such as opening a paint can or a box.

The Claw features a keyring hole, making it easy to transport and have on hand when needed. The product comes with a 100-year warranty.

Learn more at malborokane.com.

These fun socks commemorate the warbird that to this day remains the fastest manned air-breathing aircraft, even after more than 40 years have passed since it clocked in at over 2,193 mph. The crew-cut socks are made of 97 percent polyester and 3 percent spandex, and they feature images of the Cold War reconnaissance aircraft toward the top front of each sock. On the back, one sock bears the word "Top," while the other features the word "Secret."

The socks are priced at $14.99.

Learn more at sportys.com.