Robie

I've posted this at a few other forums and thought anyone dealing with sheet goods might find it useful...
I have been looking at this thing on the Internet for a few years now but never ordered one. I finally got one and it arrived today. I couldn't wait to try it out so scurried out to my garage, where I keep my sheet goods. Man, this thing works just as well as advertised! I was picking up and moving sheets of 3/4" MDF with no hassle at all. The stuff is still heavy but it was VERY manageable with the Gripper.
I'm 52 and a little overweight, so hauling around sheet goods is getting tougher every year that goes by. I actually dread going into the big box stores and getting sheets of whatever as I know finding an employee to help me is like pulling teeth. Loading up and getting plywood (especially on a windy day) can be hazardous to your health. I can always feel some aches the next day after dealing with sheet goods. I usually work alone and though I have one of the carriers that goes under the sheet, it's a PITA to get the sheet off the ground and the carrier positioned.
Anyway, I will probably order another one so I have one for the shop and one to keep in my truck, that's how impressed I am.
For those, like me, impressed with beefy, well-made tools, you'll love this. (Made in the USA also)

Just as a footnote...I am in no way associated with the company that makes these. One of the reasons for these forums is to share ideas and tools. I'm sharing.
I got mine through their website at:
http://www.gorillagripper.com:80/

__________________
"Don't tread on me"

kgphoto

A couple of other people have reviewed this item, myself included. I don't like it. Too much strain on the shoulder and if you are short, it is really tough. It sometimes slips and breaks the edge of drywall. I prefer the type that carry from the bottom.

Robie

I haven't given it a whirl on drywall yet but am anxious to. I did however just put a sheet of 1/2" and 3/4" ply together and pick them both up at the same time with no slippage at all, either from the tool or between the 2 sheets of ply.
I also read a review of someone that said it slipped but figured out they weren't closing the jaws enough before lifting. After that, he gave it a full thumbs up.
Sorry, can't comment on the shortness issue.

__________________
"Don't tread on me"

kgphoto

I expect you will find it works well on rough surfaced light plywood the best. Try a couple of sheets of MDF.

It is all about what feels good to you, so as long as you're happy, I am happy. I didn't mean to BYB's, just wanted to put a little balance in the discussion and let others know of the limitations.

The $6.00 Stanley carrier will do almost everything this will do, easier and with less stress on the body. Clearly, if you can pick up 1 1/4 inches of plywood with one hand, you have a lot of upper body strength.