Working in construction for more than 20 years, I’ve seen a number of tools, but rarely have I come across one that is a game-changer like the Viking Arm. Made in Norway from hardened stainless steel and aluminum, this compact but strong handheld jack has a lifting capacity of 330 pounds and a range of motion from 1/4 inch to 8 1/2 inches. Weighing only 3 pounds per device, a pair of Viking Arms and several bundles of shims fit inside a milk crate.
Lifting or spreading action is achieved by squeezing the all-metal handle, but where this tool really shines is in its precision lowering capability. Push the right trigger and the tool drops for a full release; for precision lowering, depress the left trigger. You will not get this control with a typical squeeze clamp tool. The Viking Arm can also be used as a clamp by removing a set screw and swapping the ratcheting mechanism around on the shaft.
Much of my work lately involves kitchens and baths, and I use a Viking Arm daily to level base cabinets prior to granite countertop installation. I just place the device under the face frame of the cabinet toe kick, and with precision, I can raise or lower a cabinet to match my laser level. It works on upper cabinets, too, with scrap-wood spacer blocks. I also use the Viking Arm to raise heavy cast-iron double sinks out of countertops. This is normally a two-person job, but with a Viking Arm, one person can safely raise the sink without throwing out their back. For lifting, pressing, tightening, and leveling, this is a quality tool that is worth its $200 price tag—but buy two. I got mine at masscaproducts.com.
