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Tools & power equipment
In this report
Overview
CR Quick Recommendations
Ratings
Not acceptable ladders
Types
Ladder safety
September 2006
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CR Quick Recommendations
Climbing any ladder involves added risk. Models that scored higher help minimize that risk by being stronger, easier to use, and less prone to tipping, swaying, and moving across the floor as you work.

The Ratings rank ladders by overall score. Quick Picks lists ladders that combine performance and value with the added safety typical for Type IA models.

Cosco ladder
Cosco
Gorilla ladder
Gorilla

Quick Picks

Best for most; top-scoring stepladders, reasonably priced; all are CR Best Buys:

Cosco 2061 $80
Werner FIA06 mk16 $90
Davidson 486-06 $90
Husky 01-46002-00 $90

The aluminum Cosco combines top performance with easy carrying. Consider the fiberglass Werner, Davidson, and Husky where electricity is a factor.  The telescoping aluminum Telesteps 605AF adds some height, and its A-frame design adds safety by eliminating the need to hold its sides as it folds. But it’s both heavy and pricey

If you want a multiuse ladder:

ClimbTek CT412 $160
Gorilla AL-13 $100, CR Best Buy
Werner MT-13 $120, CR Best Buy

All three of these aluminum multiuse ladders performed comparably. Paying more for the relatively pricey ClimbTek buys you some added working height. While the fiberglass Gorilla also performed competently overall in our tests and won’t conduct electricity when dry, it’s heavy and its sliding ends didn’t slide smoothly.