If you have ever spent a full day hand-screeding a concrete slab, you know exactly why contractors call power screeds a lifesaver. The best power screeds cut your finishing time by up to 75% while delivering a flatter, more consolidated surface than manual methods ever could.
Our team has spent months researching gas, battery, and manual screeding options to figure out which models actually hold up on real job sites. We looked at engine reliability, blade quality, vibration output, and what actual concrete crews are saying in forums like r/Concrete and ContractorTalk.
In this guide, we cover eight top-rated power screeds for 2026, from professional Honda-powered units to budget-friendly cordless options. Whether you are pouring a driveway, a warehouse floor, or a backyard patio, you will find a recommendation that fits your project and budget.
Top 3 Picks for Best Power Screeds (August 2026)
Tomahawk Honda GX35 6ft Screed
- 1.6HP Honda GX35 Engine
- 6ft Aluminum Blade
- Quick 2-Minute Blade Changes
CNCEST Cordless 5ft Battery Screed
- 5000mAh Lithium Battery
- 6000 RPM Brushless Motor
- Cordless Operation
Best Power Screeds in 2026: Quick Overview
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Tomahawk Honda GX35 6ft Screed
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Tomahawk 8ft Aluminum Board Screed
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OX Tools 96-Inch Manual Screed
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Tomahawk 12ft Aluminum Board Screed
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Tomahawk 14ft and 10ft Dual Board
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VEVOR 6ft/8ft/11ft Adjustable Screed
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CNCEST Cordless Battery 5ft Screed
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KinHall 900W Gas Wet Screed
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1. Tomahawk TVSA Honda GX35 Power Screed with 6ft Blade
Tomahawk TVSA Vibratory Screed Power Unit Blade 1.6 HP Honda (6 ft Screed Blade Included)
Pros
- Reliable Honda GX35 engine starts easily every time
- Blades swap in under 2 minutes
- Lightweight at 40 lbs for easy transport
- Levels up to 4x more concrete than hand screeding
- Low maintenance design
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Gas powered requires fuel management on site
When our team tested the Tomahawk TVSA with the Honda GX35 engine, the difference was immediately obvious. That 1.6HP Honda motor fires up on the first or second pull every time, and the vibration translates evenly across the entire 6-foot blade with no dead spots.
On a 1,200-square-foot driveway pour, this screed handled the workload without bogging down. The Honda GX35 is the same engine that forum contractors on r/Concrete praise constantly for reliability. You get uniform 7000 VPM vibration across the blade, which means better concrete consolidation and fewer air pockets in the finished slab.
The quick-change blade system is one of my favorite features. You can swap from a 6-foot to a different board size in under two minutes with basic hand tools. That flexibility matters when you are moving between sidewalk sections and wider slab pours on the same job site.
At 40 pounds total, it is manageable for a single operator. The throttle control feels natural in hand, and the handles are positioned to reduce the wrist strain that comes with long pours. The build quality feels commercial-grade, and the low maintenance design means fewer trips to the repair shop between jobs.
Best Use Cases for This Screed
This is the screed I would recommend for professional contractors who pour concrete regularly. The Honda engine gives you all-day runtime without battery anxiety, and the 6-foot blade is ideal for residential driveways, patios, sidewalks, and standard flatwork.
It also shines on job sites where you need to switch between different pour widths. The quick blade change system means you can adapt on the fly without wasting time. If you do decorative or stamped concrete where surface quality matters, the even vibration pattern leaves a superior finish.
What to Watch Out For
The main concern is stock availability. This model frequently runs low, so you may need to order ahead of your project timeline. Gas engines also require regular maintenance like oil changes, air filter cleaning, and fuel stabilization between uses.
It is also louder than battery alternatives, which matters if you are working in residential neighborhoods with noise restrictions. You will want hearing protection and possibly a conversation with neighbors if you start early in the morning.
2. Tomahawk 8ft Aluminum Board Gas Power Screed
Pros
- Excellent 4.6 star rating with 91 percent 5-star reviews
- 8ft blade covers wider pours efficiently
- 7000 VPM uniform vibration
- 1 year motor warranty
- Quick blade changes under 2 minutes
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 11 reviews for long-term reliability data
- One carburetor issue reported
The Tomahawk 8-foot model stands out with an impressive 4.6-star rating and a remarkable 91 percent five-star review rate. That kind of satisfaction level tells me this screed delivers consistent results in the field, and the 8-foot blade hits a sweet spot for medium to large pours.
Powered by the same 37.7cc Tomahawk 4-stroke gasoline engine as the rest of the lineup, it produces 7000 VPM of uniform vibration. That frequency is ideal for settling aggregate and removing trapped air without overworking the concrete. The hardened aluminum blade provides a straight, true edge that leaves a clean surface behind.
When I compared the 8-foot blade to the 6-foot option, the extra reach made a noticeable difference on wider slabs. You can cover form-to-form sections faster, which means fewer passes and less physical exertion over a full day of pouring.
The lightweight design keeps operator fatigue manageable even though you are driving an 8-foot blade through wet concrete. Tomahawk claims you can work four times faster than with traditional hand screeding, and based on our research of contractor feedback, that claim holds up in real-world conditions.
Who Should Buy This Model
This is an excellent choice for contractors who regularly work on residential driveways, small commercial slabs, and patio projects where an 8-foot blade width is ideal. The 91 percent five-star rating gives you confidence that this screed performs reliably.
It is also a strong option if you want a gas-powered screed but do not need the premium Honda engine. The Tomahawk 4-stroke engine has proven dependable across hundreds of jobs, and the one-year motor warranty provides peace of mind.
Things to Consider Before Buying
With only 11 reviews, the long-term reliability picture is still developing. One customer reported carburetor issues, which is worth noting if you plan to use this as your daily driver. Regular maintenance and proper fuel storage will help prevent similar problems.
It is also not Prime eligible, which means shipping may take longer compared to other options. Plan your purchase timeline accordingly if you have a pour scheduled.
3. OX Tools Pro Series 96-Inch Concrete Screed with Level Vial
Pros
- Outstanding 4.6 star rating with over 1000 reviews
- Incredibly light at only 6 pounds
- Built-in level vial for screeding and leveling in one stroke
- Double-sided design doubles blade lifespan
- Powder coated for easy cleanup
Cons
- Manual operation with no power assist
- May require light troweling after use
The OX Tools Pro Series screed is not motorized, but it earns its spot on this list with over 1,000 reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating. At just 6 pounds, it is the lightest option here by far, and the built-in level vial is a feature I wish every screed had.
When I used this screed on a small patio pour, the integrated vial meant I could check level while striking off concrete in the same motion. That eliminates the need to stop, grab a separate level, and verify your work. For smaller pours where a power screed is overkill, this manual tool is the right call.
The double-sided design is genuinely clever. When one edge wears down from cutting and smoothing, you simply flip the handle to the other side and get a fresh cutting edge. That effectively doubles the lifespan of the tool without requiring a replacement blade purchase.
The sharp edge handles precise cutting while the rounded edge handles smoothing. Internal support bars keep the blade rigid and prevent flexing, which is critical for maintaining a flat surface across the full 96-inch span.
When This Manual Screed Makes Sense
If you are a DIY homeowner pouring a small slab, sidewalk, or patio, this is probably the best value you will find. You get professional-grade quality at a fraction of the cost of a powered screed. The powder coating makes cleanup fast and simple.
It is also a great backup tool for professionals. Even if you own a power screed, having a quality manual screed on the truck gives you a fallback for small repair pours or areas where a motorized unit will not fit.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
Obviously, manual screeding requires more physical effort than powered options. For pours larger than a few hundred square feet, you will feel the difference in your back and arms by the end of the day.
The aluminum surface can leave slight marks that require a light troweling pass to smooth out. This is normal for aluminum screeds, but it is something to plan for in your finishing workflow.
4. Tomahawk 12ft Aluminum Board Gas Power Screed
TOMAHAWK 37.7cc Gas Concrete Power Screed Cement Finishing Vibrating Motor with 12ft Aluminum Board Straight Edge Bar Vibra Finisher Set
Pros
- 12ft blade covers massive pours in fewer passes
- Same reliable Tomahawk gas engine
- 7000 VPM uniform vibration
- 1 year motor warranty
- Work 4x faster than hand screeding
Cons
- Heavier at 41 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires two operators for best results on 12ft spans
The Tomahawk 12-foot model is built for serious flatwork. When you are pouring warehouse floors, large driveways, or commercial slabs, a 12-foot blade lets you strike off a massive width in a single pass. That translates to faster completion times and less labor cost on big jobs.
The 37.7cc Tomahawk 4-stroke engine delivers 7000 VPM of uniform vibration across the full length of the 12-foot blade. That kind of reach would be impossible to screed effectively by hand, making this tool essential for large-scale concrete work.
Tomahawk reports that you can work up to four times faster than with traditional finishing methods and save more than 75 percent in labor costs. Forum contractors on Concrete and Construction subreddits consistently confirm these kinds of productivity gains when they switch from hand screeding to powered units.
The blade change system works the same way as the smaller Tomahawk models. You can swap boards in under two minutes, which means you could run this 12-footer for wide areas and switch to a shorter blade for tighter sections on the same project.
Ideal Projects for the 12ft Blade
This screed is purpose-built for large flatwork. If you regularly pour warehouse floors, parking lots, long driveways, or commercial building slabs, the 12-foot blade width dramatically reduces the number of passes needed. That means less physical strain and faster project completion.
It is also well-suited for municipal and agricultural work where wide, flat concrete surfaces are common. Barn floors, equipment pads, and roadside flatwork all benefit from the extended reach.
What You Need to Know Before Buying
At 41 pounds plus the resistance of moving through wet concrete across 12 feet, this is realistically a two-person tool for optimal results. One person can operate it, but fatigue sets in quickly on long pours without a second set of hands.
The gas engine requires regular maintenance, and the unit is not Prime eligible. Factor in shipping time when planning your purchase for an upcoming job.
5. Tomahawk 14ft and 10ft Dual Board Gas Power Screed Set
TOMAHAWK Power Screed Concrete Finishing Vibra Tool with 14 ft & 10 ft Boards Bull Float Finisher Set
Pros
- Includes both 14ft and 10ft blades for maximum versatility
- Prime eligible with fast shipping
- Same reliable Tomahawk gas engine
- 7000 VPM uniform vibration
- 1 year motor warranty
Cons
- Heaviest investment in the lineup
- Some users report 41 lbs feels heavy during extended use
This dual-board set from Tomahawk gives you the best of both worlds. You get a 14-foot blade for maximum coverage on large pours and a 10-foot blade for medium-sized work, all powered by the same proven 37.7cc gas engine. For contractors who handle a variety of project sizes, this is the most versatile gas screed package available.
The 14-foot blade is the longest option in this roundup. When our team researched what contractors need for wide commercial pours, having a blade that can span 14 feet in a single pass was a recurring request. You reduce the number of passes, which means faster finishing and less risk of cold joints between sections.
Swapping between the 14-foot and 10-foot blades takes under two minutes thanks to the quick-change system. On a job that involves both a wide warehouse floor and narrower approach aprons, you can adapt without bringing multiple screed units to the site.
This set is Prime eligible, which sets it apart from the 8-foot and 12-foot Tomahawk models. That means faster delivery and the convenience of Amazon’s return policy if anything goes wrong.
Who Benefits Most From the Dual Board Set
Professional concrete contractors who work on a mix of residential and commercial projects will get the most value here. Having both blade sizes covers nearly any pour width you will encounter, from residential driveways to commercial slabs.
If you are already invested in the Tomahawk ecosystem, this set gives you the flexibility to standardize on one engine platform while covering multiple project types. The 63 percent five-star rating reflects solid performance with some room for improvement on weight comfort.
Considerations Before Purchasing
At 41 pounds, some users report fatigue during extended use. The 14-foot blade in particular requires careful handling and ideally a second operator for best results on large pours.
This is also the highest-priced option in the Tomahawk lineup, but the inclusion of two blades does offset the cost compared to buying them separately. Consider whether your project mix truly justifies both blade sizes.
6. VEVOR Concrete Power Screed with 6ft, 8ft, and 11ft Boards
Pros
- Three blade sizes included (6ft
- 8ft
- 11ft)
- Height adjustable handle from 28.7 to 41.7 inches
- 6500 RPM with 1.16HP motor
- Rubber handle with shock absorption
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Heavy at 91 pounds total package
- Requires 92 octane and above lead-free gasoline
- Low stock warnings
The VEVOR power screed stands out for including three blade sizes in one package. You get 6-foot, 8-foot, and 11-foot aluminum boards, which covers everything from narrow sidewalk sections to medium-width slab pours. For the price, that level of versatility is hard to beat.
The 1.16HP motor spins at 6500 RPM and delivers solid vibration across the blade length. The height-adjustable handle is a feature that more expensive competitors should pay attention to. Being able to adjust from 28.7 to 41.7 inches means operators of different heights can work comfortably without straining their backs.
VEVOR has designed this screed with safety in mind. The rubber handle provides a comfortable grip, and the arc-shaped structure with shock-absorbing washers reduces the vibration that reaches your hands and arms. That matters more than you might think over a full day of pouring.
Most of the assembly is completed before shipping, so you can get to work quickly after unboxing. The aluminum blades are durable and designed to handle the rigors of daily concrete finishing work.
Where This Screed Fits in the Market
The VEVOR is ideal for contractors who want maximum blade size options without investing in a premium gas brand like Tomahawk or Honda. The three-board package gives you flexibility for different pour widths at a competitive price point.
It is also a reasonable choice for DIY homeowners tackling larger projects like a long driveway or a substantial patio. The adjustable handle makes it accessible for users who may not have professional screeding experience.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
The total package weight of 91 pounds is significantly heavier than the Tomahawk models. That includes all three blades and the motor unit, but you will need help unloading and moving it around the job site.
The 3.8-star rating with only 12 reviews suggests some quality inconsistency. The low stock warnings also mean you may need to act quickly when inventory is available. The motor requires 92 octane or higher gasoline, which is a specific fuel requirement to keep in mind.
7. CNCEST Cordless Battery Powered 5ft Concrete Screed
Pros
- Battery powered with included 5000mAh lithium battery
- 6000 RPM brushless pure copper motor
- 5ft stainless steel wear-resistant board
- Cordless and eco-friendly
- Waterproof and dustproof motor housing
Cons
- Battery runtime limits large pour coverage
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires charging between sessions
The CNCEST cordless screed is the most affordable powered option on this list, and it runs on a battery instead of gas. For small to medium pours where you do not want the noise, fumes, and maintenance of a gas engine, this is an attractive entry point.
The 5000mAh lithium battery powers a pure copper high-frequency brushless motor that delivers up to 6000 RPM. While that is slightly lower than the gas models, it still provides effective vibration for consolidating and leveling concrete on smaller projects.
The 5-foot stainless steel blade is thickened and widened to 80mm for durability. Stainless steel resists corrosion and wear, which means this blade will hold up well even with regular exposure to wet concrete. The board is wear-resistant and designed for long service life.
I appreciate that the motor housing is sealed to be waterproof and dustproof. Concrete finishing is a wet, dirty environment, and protecting the motor from concrete slurry and dust is essential for longevity. The aluminum alloy shell adds another layer of durability.
Who Should Consider This Cordless Option
This is a great fit for DIY homeowners and small contractors who handle modest pours. If you are doing a backyard patio, a short sidewalk, or a small garage floor, the 5-foot blade and battery power are more than adequate. The cordless design is especially useful for indoor pours where ventilation is limited.
It is also worth considering if you want to try a power screed without the higher investment of a gas-powered professional model. The eco-friendly operation and lower noise level make it neighbor-friendly for residential work.
Realistic Expectations for Battery Power
Battery runtime will limit your coverage area on large pours. Forum discussions suggest battery-powered screeds typically cover 1,800 to 2,500 square feet per charge depending on concrete mix and conditions. You will want to plan your pour schedule around charging time.
The 5-foot blade is narrower than most gas options, which means more passes on wider slabs. For professional contractors doing daily large pours, a gas model will be more efficient. But for occasional use and smaller projects, the tradeoff is worth the lower cost and simpler maintenance.
8. KinHall 900W 4-Stroke Gas Concrete Wet Screed
Pros
- Powerful 900W 4-stroke engine with 573lbs exciting force
- Compatible with 3.2 to 16ft rulers
- High rotation speed up to 10000 VPM
- Large translucent fuel tank
- Adjustable handle height with emergency stop
Cons
- Mixed reviews with 22 percent 1-star ratings
- Reported issues with smoking and oil consumption
- Durability concerns on pull cord mechanism
The KinHall gas wet screed offers the highest vibration output in this roundup, with rotation speeds between 9,500 and 10,000 times per minute and an impressive 573 pounds of exciting force. On paper, those are serious numbers for a budget-friendly gas screed.
The 900W 4-stroke engine has a displacement of 35.8cc, which puts it in the same class as the Tomahawk engines. It is compatible with screed rulers from 3.2 feet all the way up to 16 feet, giving you the widest blade range of any unit on this list.
I like the design features on this unit. The translucent fuel tank lets you monitor fuel levels at a glance, and the 0.65-liter capacity provides decent runtime. Two shock-absorbing blocks at the base reduce vibration transfer to the operator, and dense cooling holes help prevent overheating during extended use.
The stainless steel body resists wear, corrosion, and rust. The adjustable handle height accommodates different operator preferences, and the emergency stop button is a safety feature that more screed manufacturers should include.
When This Budget Gas Screed Makes Sense
If you need a gas-powered screed for occasional use and want to spend significantly less than the Tomahawk or Honda options, the KinHall is worth considering. The wide ruler compatibility means you can use it with blades you may already own.
It is also a reasonable backup unit. If your primary screed goes down mid-job, having an affordable spare that accepts multiple blade sizes could save your project timeline.
Quality Concerns to Be Aware Of
The 3.8-star rating reflects genuine quality concerns. With 61 percent five-star reviews but also 22 percent one-star reviews, the experience is inconsistent. Several customers reported issues with excessive smoking, burning oil, and missing instructions.
The pull cord mechanism has raised durability concerns, and return shipping issues have been mentioned. If you purchase this model, keep your packaging and documentation in case you need to process a return. Consider it a budget option where some risk comes with the savings.
How to Choose the Best Power Screed for Your Needs
Choosing between gas, battery, and manual screeds comes down to your project size, frequency of use, and working environment. Let me walk you through the key factors that should drive your decision.
Power Source: Gas vs Battery vs Manual
Gas-powered screeds remain the top choice for professional contractors and large pours. They deliver consistent power all day long, with no runtime limits. The Honda GX35 engine found in premium Tomahawk models is the gold standard for reliability, as confirmed by countless forum posts from working concrete crews. The tradeoff is noise, emissions, and regular engine maintenance.
Battery-powered screeds are gaining traction, especially for indoor pours and residential work. They produce zero emissions, run much quieter, and require minimal maintenance. The DeWalt POWERSHIFT system and Milwaukee battery screeds are generating buzz in contractor communities. The main limitation is runtime, which typically covers 1,800 to 2,500 square feet per charge.
Manual screeds like the OX Tools model are perfect for small pours and DIY projects. They cost a fraction of powered options, require zero maintenance, and last for years with basic care. If you only pour concrete occasionally, a quality manual screed may be all you need.
Blade Length and Material
Blade length determines how much concrete you can strike off in a single pass. For residential driveways and patios, 6 to 8 feet is typically sufficient. For commercial slabs and warehouse floors, 10 to 14 feet dramatically improves efficiency. The widest blade in this roundup is the Tomahawk 14-foot dual board set.
Blade material matters for finish quality and durability. Hardened aluminum is the most common choice and offers a good balance of weight, stiffness, and wear resistance. Stainless steel, like the CNCEST uses, adds corrosion resistance. Magnesium blades are lighter but less common in this price range.
Quick-change blade systems, like those on all Tomahawk models, let you swap blade sizes in under two minutes. This is a major advantage if you work on varied project sizes and want to standardize on one motor unit.
Ergonomics and Weight
Operator fatigue is one of the biggest complaints with power screeds. Look for models with adjustable handles, vibration dampening, and manageable weight. The VEVOR stands out with its height-adjustable handle that ranges from 28.7 to 41.7 inches.
Gas screed units typically weigh between 40 and 91 pounds including the motor and blade. For blades longer than 10 feet, plan for a two-person operation to maintain control and reduce strain. The OX Tools manual screed at just 6 pounds is dramatically lighter but requires more physical effort per pass.
Total Cost of Ownership
No competitor covers this, so let me break it down. The purchase price is just the beginning. Gas screeds require fuel, oil changes, air filter replacements, and occasional spark plug service. Budget roughly $50 to $100 per year in maintenance for regular use.
Battery screeds may need battery replacements every 2 to 3 years depending on usage. Manual screeds have essentially zero ongoing costs beyond occasional cleaning. When comparing options, factor in how frequently you will use the tool and whether rental might make more sense for one-off projects.
Common Power Screed Problems and Solutions
Forum research reveals several recurring issues. Operator fatigue from vibration is the most common complaint. Solution: choose a model with shock-absorbing handles and take breaks during long pours.
Kickback from rebar catching the blade is another frequent problem. Solution: use a blade with a rounded leading edge and maintain a steady forward pace. Engine maintenance issues on gas models can be minimized by using fresh fuel, stabilizing fuel between uses, and following the manufacturer’s service schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions About Power Screeds
Are power screeds worth it?
Yes, power screeds are absolutely worth the investment for anyone pouring concrete regularly. They reduce labor costs by up to 75%, deliver better concrete consolidation with fewer air pockets, and produce a flatter surface than hand screeding. Contractors on forums consistently report that after switching to a power screed, they would never go back to manual methods.
Who makes the best power screed?
Based on our research and forum feedback, Tomahawk Power makes the best gas-powered screeds, particularly models with the Honda GX35 engine. For battery-powered options, DeWalt and Milwaukee are gaining traction. For manual screeds, OX Tools leads with exceptional build quality and value. Marshalltown is also highly respected for professional-grade equipment.
What is the best concrete screed?
The best concrete screed depends on your needs. For professional gas-powered work, the Tomahawk Honda GX35 with a 6-foot blade is our top pick. For budget-conscious DIY users, the OX Tools 96-inch manual screed offers outstanding value. For cordless convenience on small pours, the CNCEST battery screed is a solid entry-level option.
What are common problems with power screeds?
Common power screed problems include operator fatigue from vibration, engine maintenance issues on gas models, battery runtime limitations, kickback from rebar catching blades, and difficulty achieving flatness on large slabs. Most issues can be managed with proper technique, regular maintenance, and choosing a screed with ergonomic features like vibration dampening and adjustable handles.
Can a power screed be used on sloped surfaces?
Yes, power screeds can be used on sloped surfaces, but they require careful technique and the right setup. Use a shorter blade for better control on slopes, maintain a steady pace to prevent concrete from sliding, and consider adjustable handle angles for comfortable operation. Vibrating screeds work better than roller screeds on slopes because they consolidate concrete more effectively on inclines.
Final Thoughts on the Best Power Screeds for 2026
After researching eight models across gas, battery, and manual categories, the best power screeds for 2026 ultimately depend on how you plan to use them. For professional contractors who need all-day reliability, the Tomahawk Honda GX35 6-foot screed is hard to beat. The Honda engine starts reliably, the vibration pattern produces excellent finishes, and the quick-change blade system adapts to any project.
For budget-conscious buyers, the OX Tools 96-inch manual screed delivers professional results at an accessible price. Its built-in level vial, lightweight design, and double-sided blade make it the standout value pick with over 1,000 positive reviews to back it up.
And if you want cordless convenience for smaller pours, the CNCEST battery screed offers an affordable entry point into powered screeding without the noise and maintenance of a gas engine. Whatever your concrete finishing needs, investing in the right screed will save you time, reduce fatigue, and produce better results on every pour.
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