The Hitachi EC12 is a popular, portable, 4-gallon, twin-stack, oil-lubricated air compressor known for its cast-iron pump, 2 HP motor (14.5 amp), and 125 PSI max, offering good power for framing nailers, staplers, inflation, and light-duty jobs, but it's an older model, often found reconditioned or used, with some common issues like restart problems (voltage drop) and design quirks needing maintenance.