Power tool cord retainer

A power tool with a power cord retaining device for retaining a power cord receptacle to the power tool, the power tool comprising:

• a power tool housing comprising an electrical power jack;
• a retaining member comprising a first serrated surface, the retaining member being slidably disposed within the power tool housing, wherein the retaining member moves between a retracted position in which it allows a plug of a power cord to be connected to the power jack, and a locked position wherein the retaining member holds the plug of the power cord engaged with the power jack;
• and
• a release member comprising a second serrated surface, the release member being at least partially disposed within the housing that contacts the retaining member, wherein the first serrated surface is in communication with the second serrated surface and prevents movement of the retaining member into the retracted position unless the release member is first manually urged into a release position.

A method for securing a power cord plug to an AC power jack of a power tool comprising the steps of:

• providing a housing of the power tool comprising a power cord retaining member having a first serrated surface and a release member having a second serrated surface wherein said first serrated surface is in communication with said second serrated surface for securing said power cord plug;
• engaging the release member;
• while holding the release member engaged, moving the retaining member into an unlocked position wherein the plug of the power cord can be engaged with the power jack;
• connecting the power cord plug to the AC power jack;
• releasing the release member;
• pushing the retaining member against the power cord plug;
• and
• wherein the release member prevents movement of the retaining member away from the power cord plug.