The contest, sponsored by hilmor Tools, drew more than 300 entrants, a 44% increase from the 2023 contest and the most in its nine-year history.

Hilmor hosted their annual “Fastest Hands in HVAC” contest, where participants were timed on their ability to complete several HVAC repairs and installations.

With a 1/8- to 1 3/8-inch tubing cutter, pen-style deburring tool, and this orbital flare kit, technicians have the tools to create quick and accurate flares. 

The contest has received more than a thousand student entries from hundreds of trade schools over the last two years since its origin, successfully supporting the next generation of HVACR technicians. 

The Compact Swage is a lightweight, compact tool that weighs 2.2 pounds. It is operable with one hand. 

The Quick-Engage Flare and Swage, with its streamlined mechanics, makes accurate flaring and swaging a snap, the company said.