About

My name is Fred Horne, and I live in the outskirts of Portland, Oregon a region where the forest meets the suburbs, and most weekends are spent tinkering, exploring gear, and trying to pull off one more DIY project than the one before.

Before starting this blog, I spent a decade working as a field service engineer for a building-automation company, installing smart HVAC systems and energy-management controls in commercial buildings. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Oregon State University, and early in my career I discovered that choosing the right tool (or accessory) often made the difference between a smooth job and a late night.

Over the years I collected a lot of lessons—not just about software and wiring, but about what works in the real world: what breaks quicker than you expect, what product description is too good to be true, and how the smallest ergonomic change can transform a whole day of work. In 2025 I decided to channel all that into this blog, so I could share honest, grounded product reviews and buying advice not just from specs, but from real-world use.

Fred Horne
Fred Horne

Why This Blog Exists

When I launched nydaggroup.com in early 2025, my goal was simple: offer review articles and guides that feel like chatting with a trusted friend who’s already messed up the purchase once so you don’t have to. Whether it’s a power tool, a home-organization gadget, a kitchen upgrade, or an accessory you’ll actually use every day I approach each item as if I’m buying it for my own house.

I believe that affiliate links and product reviews don’t have to feel slick or salesy. They can be honest, pragmatic, sometimes even admitting when a product isn’t perfect. That kind of transparency is what I aim for here. I know from my past work that the one-size-fits-all pitch rarely holds true in practice so on this blog I share what I learned in the trenches, plus what you should check, what to expect, and what might surprise you.

My Approach & What You’ll Find

Since I began this journey, I’ve made it a habit to purchase (or borrow) the products I review, use them extensively, and then write about what worked and what didn’t. I’m not trying to be the first to publish; I’m trying to be the one you can trust after someone’s already lived with it for a while. You’ll find: photo-heavy breakdowns, everyday language (no jargon overload), and reflections on how a product behaves in the “real life” of a working home or workshop.

I cover a mix of categories but what ties it all together is the focus on practicality: items that help you live smarter, make chores easier, or give you more flexibility when you’re planning a project or simply trying to unwind on your weekend. If the description sounds too perfect, I dig into the caveats. If something performs better than expected, I highlight what sets it apart. My intention is that by the time you finish reading, you feel like you could walk into the store (or click “add to cart”) knowing you’ve done your homework.

What I’m Like Outside the Blog

When I’m not writing or testing gear, you’ll find me elbow-deep in a backyard renovation project, cycling a winding trail near the river, or tinkering in my home workshop with a cup of strong black coffee nearby. Portland’s surroundings keep me grounded mountains, trees, changing light—and help me remember that the best products are the ones that quietly hold up, not the ones that shine brightest on page one.

Living in a four-bed ranch‐style home built in the 70s, I’m not immune to squeaky doors, uneven floors, or the occasional surprise behind the wall. It means I understand what it’s like to be the homeowner who just wants something that works, without fuss. I bring that mindset into every review.

Thanks for Stopping By

I’m grateful you made your way here. If you decide to click through one of the links and pick up a product I’ve reviewed, I hope it serves you well for years not just weeks. And if you have questions, suggestions, or things you’d like me to explore, you’ll find a way to reach me on the blog. Thanks for trusting me to help you make smarter choices. Here’s to fewer regrets, better gear, and more time doing the things you truly enjoy.

Author Profile

Fred Horne
Fred Horne
Fred Horne is a former field service engineer turned product reviewer based in Portland, Oregon. With a background in mechanical engineering and over a decade spent working with building automation systems, he’s developed a sharp eye for quality, durability, and real-world functionality. His technical experience taught him that the difference between a great product and a frustrating one often lies in the small, overlooked details.

In 2025, Fred founded nydaggroup.com to share honest, hands-on reviews that help everyday buyers make smarter choices. He tests each product in real-life settings and writes with the goal of being straightforward, practical, and relatable. When he’s not working on new reviews, you’ll find him fixing something around the house, cycling the Oregon trails, or experimenting with tools in his home workshop.
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