After 21 years of really good service, I have come to the conclusion it is time to replace my Dewalt cordless drill/driver. What is the best one out there from a reliability, power and battery life standpoint? Thanks
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Cordless drill
- Thread starter spr1
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Re: Cordless drill
What size are you looking for? 18 Volts are big and powerful, but heavy. DeWalt, Bosch, Makita and Milwaukee are all worth looking at. I've several of the Bosch 12volts and think they're outstanding. Bosch 12V with an adjustable chuck, pound for pound it's a helluva good tool. Small, lightweight, but has excellent power for a tool it's size. I can't stress the adjustable chuck feature enough, most of the 12v models have 1/4" hex chucks, which isn't an issue if you've got hex bits, but is if you ever want to use a big bit.
Both of these are excellent tools in my experience, if you're looking for a 12V.
Bosch 12V
Milwaukee Link
What size are you looking for? 18 Volts are big and powerful, but heavy. DeWalt, Bosch, Makita and Milwaukee are all worth looking at. I've several of the Bosch 12volts and think they're outstanding. Bosch 12V with an adjustable chuck, pound for pound it's a helluva good tool. Small, lightweight, but has excellent power for a tool it's size. I can't stress the adjustable chuck feature enough, most of the 12v models have 1/4" hex chucks, which isn't an issue if you've got hex bits, but is if you ever want to use a big bit.
Both of these are excellent tools in my experience, if you're looking for a 12V.
Bosch 12V
Milwaukee Link
Re: Cordless drill
I've a couple Hitachi 14.4v drills here, and they are doing everything I need them to. Torquey little bastards, and they have the high/low range. Makes a massive difference than the older ones 20 years ago which were 'single-stage'.
That, and a flashlight and two batteries for about a hundred bucks,,, not a bad deal at all. I thought, anyways.
I've a couple Hitachi 14.4v drills here, and they are doing everything I need them to. Torquey little bastards, and they have the high/low range. Makes a massive difference than the older ones 20 years ago which were 'single-stage'.
That, and a flashlight and two batteries for about a hundred bucks,,, not a bad deal at all. I thought, anyways.
Re: Cordless drill
I want a 3/8" chuck. The one I have has a high and a low speed and an adjustable torque feature.
I want a 3/8" chuck. The one I have has a high and a low speed and an adjustable torque feature.
Re: Cordless drill
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">After 21 years of really good service, I have come to the conclusion it is time to replace my Dewalt cordless drill/driver. What is the best one out there from a reliability, power and battery life standpoint? Thanks </div></div>
What do you need it to do?
I have a bunch of DeWalts (18V and 12V), Older Porter Cables (14.4 and 19.6v) and work with guys who use the gamut.
If all you need is a drill then you'll find the construction grade drills made by DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, and even Ryobi have much to offer.
A lot of the younger guys on my jobsites use the Ryobis, which are less expensive, and frankly they hold up pretty well and the batteries are damn sure a bargain compared to others.
I went with DeWalt largely because I use a lot of different cordless tools so battery compatibility between my drills, hammer drills, rotary and chipping hammers (Not their best product...), sawzall, lights, circ saw and vacuum was important (Also available from the other manufacturers of course) but the clincher for me is that there is a Dewalt facility located here and service and accessories are easily available and they are pretty fair to me.
The newer compact batteries have made powerful drills available with lighter weight and long battery life. If I were to look for a new platform, I'd probably go with the 20V Dewalt stuff but there is a lot of good gear out there.
Good luck.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">After 21 years of really good service, I have come to the conclusion it is time to replace my Dewalt cordless drill/driver. What is the best one out there from a reliability, power and battery life standpoint? Thanks </div></div>
What do you need it to do?
I have a bunch of DeWalts (18V and 12V), Older Porter Cables (14.4 and 19.6v) and work with guys who use the gamut.
If all you need is a drill then you'll find the construction grade drills made by DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, and even Ryobi have much to offer.
A lot of the younger guys on my jobsites use the Ryobis, which are less expensive, and frankly they hold up pretty well and the batteries are damn sure a bargain compared to others.
I went with DeWalt largely because I use a lot of different cordless tools so battery compatibility between my drills, hammer drills, rotary and chipping hammers (Not their best product...), sawzall, lights, circ saw and vacuum was important (Also available from the other manufacturers of course) but the clincher for me is that there is a Dewalt facility located here and service and accessories are easily available and they are pretty fair to me.
The newer compact batteries have made powerful drills available with lighter weight and long battery life. If I were to look for a new platform, I'd probably go with the 20V Dewalt stuff but there is a lot of good gear out there.
Good luck.
Re: Cordless drill
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks. I need it to drive screws and drill holes. </div></div>
Go with the new Lithium Ion, much better and lighter than NiCad. I have the Makita 18V and like it, but they come in 2 flavors as far as the batteries go. 1.5 Ah. and 3.0 Ah. go with the 3 Ah. if your doing a lot of driving screws.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks. I need it to drive screws and drill holes. </div></div>
Go with the new Lithium Ion, much better and lighter than NiCad. I have the Makita 18V and like it, but they come in 2 flavors as far as the batteries go. 1.5 Ah. and 3.0 Ah. go with the 3 Ah. if your doing a lot of driving screws.
Re: Cordless drill
I have had the Makita kit that came with a drill and impact driver. Lithium Ion batts are waaaay lighter than the old nickel.
I've built several steel structures using the impact driver to drive thousands of self tapping screws and its damn impressive. It also drove over 1000 deckmates in my giant porch in 2009. The tools will keep working when the batteries run out of life. Amazon has been the best resource to replace the batteries.
I have had the Makita kit that came with a drill and impact driver. Lithium Ion batts are waaaay lighter than the old nickel.
I've built several steel structures using the impact driver to drive thousands of self tapping screws and its damn impressive. It also drove over 1000 deckmates in my giant porch in 2009. The tools will keep working when the batteries run out of life. Amazon has been the best resource to replace the batteries.
Re: Cordless drill
In the 12v range I like the Makita they had a set at HD the other day with a drill and an impact driver for $99
In 18V I like Milwaukee it's more brand loyalty than anything else. FWIW of the newer corded and cordless drills I've had in the last 10 years the Reds are always stronger but I just seem to kill all of them.
In the 12v range I like the Makita they had a set at HD the other day with a drill and an impact driver for $99
In 18V I like Milwaukee it's more brand loyalty than anything else. FWIW of the newer corded and cordless drills I've had in the last 10 years the Reds are always stronger but I just seem to kill all of them.
Re: Cordless drill
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks. I need it to drive screws and drill holes. </div></div>
Ryobi 18v lion battery - I have had one for several years and it gets normal use. I am not a contractor but it has held up really well. They are 'cheap' compared to others but have great battery life.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spr1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks. I need it to drive screws and drill holes. </div></div>
Ryobi 18v lion battery - I have had one for several years and it gets normal use. I am not a contractor but it has held up really well. They are 'cheap' compared to others but have great battery life.
Re: Cordless drill
I beat the shit out my DeWalt so much as to see it smoke on more than 1 occasion... It still works as good as new minus the cosmetics lol. Ryobi has definitely improved over the years and would be my 2nd choice. If you have the $$$ then stick with an 18v.
I beat the shit out my DeWalt so much as to see it smoke on more than 1 occasion... It still works as good as new minus the cosmetics lol. Ryobi has definitely improved over the years and would be my 2nd choice. If you have the $$$ then stick with an 18v.
Re: Cordless drill
I have been using a Ridgid 24 volt setup for about four years now. Yes they are big and heavy, but there is no job they can't accomplish: I've used them for everything from screwing on a new loading-bench top to cutting and drilling railroad timbers. The batteries last a LOT longer than the 18 volt ones, and are covered under the Ridgid warranty.
If that is overkill for your purposes, take a look at the 18 volt version.
I have been using a Ridgid 24 volt setup for about four years now. Yes they are big and heavy, but there is no job they can't accomplish: I've used them for everything from screwing on a new loading-bench top to cutting and drilling railroad timbers. The batteries last a LOT longer than the 18 volt ones, and are covered under the Ridgid warranty.
If that is overkill for your purposes, take a look at the 18 volt version.
Re: Cordless drill
When I got out of the Air Force the first paycheck I got I bought a 9.6 volt Makita, when it went tits up I bought a 14.4 Dewalt, now I don't directly fix airplanes anymore, I fix broken people, I see a lot of my peps using the new small Lithium Ion 18v drill/drivers, Makita is still king here, APEX makes an adapter that allows a precision drill chuck to be used on the driver only versions.
When I got out of the Air Force the first paycheck I got I bought a 9.6 volt Makita, when it went tits up I bought a 14.4 Dewalt, now I don't directly fix airplanes anymore, I fix broken people, I see a lot of my peps using the new small Lithium Ion 18v drill/drivers, Makita is still king here, APEX makes an adapter that allows a precision drill chuck to be used on the driver only versions.
Re: Cordless drill
I teach High School Agriculture and spend a bunch of time in shop
Dewalt is my choice! hands down.. those tools will take abuse and lots of it... they make an 18 volt tool for just about every app. I buy my tools thru Lowes and they are returnable if they break no questions asked! I don't abuse that but I have had a few tools that were not good. Dewalt will make that 18 volt battery for ever... all these other companies will change battery styles... and when your batteries die you are screwed!
I also own a ranch and my personal tools are DeWalt and they are great when you have a big job to do and you have 3-4 drills 2 saws a driver with 10 batteries 4 chargers and no one waiting for a battery to charge up!!!
I teach High School Agriculture and spend a bunch of time in shop
Dewalt is my choice! hands down.. those tools will take abuse and lots of it... they make an 18 volt tool for just about every app. I buy my tools thru Lowes and they are returnable if they break no questions asked! I don't abuse that but I have had a few tools that were not good. Dewalt will make that 18 volt battery for ever... all these other companies will change battery styles... and when your batteries die you are screwed!
I also own a ranch and my personal tools are DeWalt and they are great when you have a big job to do and you have 3-4 drills 2 saws a driver with 10 batteries 4 chargers and no one waiting for a battery to charge up!!!
Re: Cordless drill
I'm a contactor and am pretty tough on drills...Bosch is rough to beat, with the excpetion that they are tough on the wallet. I bought a Ryobi on a whim, expecting it not to last long and I can't kill the thing. Some people might have different results, but nearly two years later the Ryobi Lithium has really impressed me.
I'm a contactor and am pretty tough on drills...Bosch is rough to beat, with the excpetion that they are tough on the wallet. I bought a Ryobi on a whim, expecting it not to last long and I can't kill the thing. Some people might have different results, but nearly two years later the Ryobi Lithium has really impressed me.
Re: Cordless drill
I use cordless drills every day at work, and if I were buying with my own money here's what I'd get, in order.
Bosch
Panasonic
Milwaukie
Makita
Hilti
The last 3 are even-steven, you can't go wrong. I'm a huge Bosch fan and they have always treated me right. The Panasonics have a really durable planetary gear set, long run time battery, and are relatively light.
Lastly, you can also consider Rigid tools. They are made in some of the same factories as the others, are usually heavier than their counterparts, work well, and Home Depot has a good return policy for Rigid gear.
I use cordless drills every day at work, and if I were buying with my own money here's what I'd get, in order.
Bosch
Panasonic
Milwaukie
Makita
Hilti
The last 3 are even-steven, you can't go wrong. I'm a huge Bosch fan and they have always treated me right. The Panasonics have a really durable planetary gear set, long run time battery, and are relatively light.
Lastly, you can also consider Rigid tools. They are made in some of the same factories as the others, are usually heavier than their counterparts, work well, and Home Depot has a good return policy for Rigid gear.
Re: Cordless drill
I'm not a contractor but I do a ton of online research prior to buying things, especially tools or anything electronic. I purchased a Dewalt 20v Max combo set after looking at the online reviews and I'm really pleased with it. The batteries hold a charge really well and also recharge in about 20-30 minutes, which means that no matter what you're doing you always have a battery that is charged. They seem really well made and Dewalt's CS is also top notch as I accidentally destroyed the case that came with the kit and they replaced it no questions asked and very promtly. I would also like to add that it you don't currently own a impact driver, you should!
Edited to add: I did use the hammerdrill function on the Dewalt and it performed drilling 1/2" holes in solid concrete very well, especially for a cordless tool.
I'm not a contractor but I do a ton of online research prior to buying things, especially tools or anything electronic. I purchased a Dewalt 20v Max combo set after looking at the online reviews and I'm really pleased with it. The batteries hold a charge really well and also recharge in about 20-30 minutes, which means that no matter what you're doing you always have a battery that is charged. They seem really well made and Dewalt's CS is also top notch as I accidentally destroyed the case that came with the kit and they replaced it no questions asked and very promtly. I would also like to add that it you don't currently own a impact driver, you should!
Edited to add: I did use the hammerdrill function on the Dewalt and it performed drilling 1/2" holes in solid concrete very well, especially for a cordless tool.
Re: Cordless drill
I've got two sets of cordless tools, both of which use lithium-ion batteries - a DeWalt 36V set (1/2" hammer drill/driver, 7 1/4" circular saw, and reciprocating saw), and a DeWalt 12V set (3/8" drill and 1/4" impact driver).
The big 36V stuff is great for serious work, and are effective replacements for corded tools. When I was renovating my house and finishing the interior of my polebarn, these tools did about 95% of the work. The drill will run a 1" auger bit or large hole saws, the circular saw is awesome for cutting large sheets of plywood or MDF, and the reciprocating saw did much of my demo work. But those tools are heavy, and I don't know of many people that would enjoy holding them overhead or at arm's length for a full day. For most homeowners, this class of tool is overkill.
The 12V stuff is what I use for minor household chores. It's perfect for drilling small holes, driving a handful of screws, etc. They cover most general repair and maintenance tasks around a house or garage, and they are far more comfortable (and safe!) to use than their big 36V brothers. But these aren't the right tools for a major plumbing or electrical job.
A friend recently picked up a 20V DeWalt set, and another has invested in Makita's 18V stuff. Both of these appear to split the difference quite nicely between the two sets I described above.
I've got two sets of cordless tools, both of which use lithium-ion batteries - a DeWalt 36V set (1/2" hammer drill/driver, 7 1/4" circular saw, and reciprocating saw), and a DeWalt 12V set (3/8" drill and 1/4" impact driver).
The big 36V stuff is great for serious work, and are effective replacements for corded tools. When I was renovating my house and finishing the interior of my polebarn, these tools did about 95% of the work. The drill will run a 1" auger bit or large hole saws, the circular saw is awesome for cutting large sheets of plywood or MDF, and the reciprocating saw did much of my demo work. But those tools are heavy, and I don't know of many people that would enjoy holding them overhead or at arm's length for a full day. For most homeowners, this class of tool is overkill.
The 12V stuff is what I use for minor household chores. It's perfect for drilling small holes, driving a handful of screws, etc. They cover most general repair and maintenance tasks around a house or garage, and they are far more comfortable (and safe!) to use than their big 36V brothers. But these aren't the right tools for a major plumbing or electrical job.
A friend recently picked up a 20V DeWalt set, and another has invested in Makita's 18V stuff. Both of these appear to split the difference quite nicely between the two sets I described above.
Re: Cordless drill
I recently purchased a Ryobi 18V W/ the Lithium Ion batteries... I'm not a contractor but it's held up pretty well for normal use.
I liked how the Ryobi's had a whole product line of stuff that all used the same battery system.
I recently purchased a Ryobi 18V W/ the Lithium Ion batteries... I'm not a contractor but it's held up pretty well for normal use.
I liked how the Ryobi's had a whole product line of stuff that all used the same battery system.
Re: Cordless drill
While I sometimes use my cordless drill to turn case necks, I really like my DeWalt 1/2" key less chuck, 18 volt. It will spin everything from a 30-06 size case head down. It will NOT correctly spin 300 WinMag brass or bigger. The belt doesn't let it insert correctly.
When we were going all over the country with the camper going to matches, I used the DeWalt to run the stab jacks up and down. I'm sure that saved me a couple of heart attacks.
Good luck on your choice.
While I sometimes use my cordless drill to turn case necks, I really like my DeWalt 1/2" key less chuck, 18 volt. It will spin everything from a 30-06 size case head down. It will NOT correctly spin 300 WinMag brass or bigger. The belt doesn't let it insert correctly.
When we were going all over the country with the camper going to matches, I used the DeWalt to run the stab jacks up and down. I'm sure that saved me a couple of heart attacks.
Good luck on your choice.
Re: Cordless drill
Ryobi hands down when it comes to cordless. I've thrown away about 2 DeWalt Cordless tools for every Ryobi I own. I've yet to have a Ryobi die on me. The batteries last much longer than the higher priced ones IMO and are half the cost to replace. My grandfather is still staying loyal to DeWalt (only because he has too much invested to change over). He just got two XRP drills back from the factory that were supposedly refurbished. Neither one works like it should. He also bought a new XRP while those were being rebuilt. It came with two of the Nano-Technology batteries.... Neither one ever took a single charge. That was a few weeks ago. I don't think DeWalt has sent the replacements yet...
A buddy of mine sold me on Ryobi when he was in the pool business. He'd run them under water when installing/repairing above ground pools. I asked him how many drills he went through using them in chlorinated/salt water.... He said "I'll let ya know when the first one dies." He used them for years and never had one fail. He ust spun the water out and threw them in the truck...
Edit: For the record, I'm not a Dewalt "hater". All of my corded carpentry tools are DeWalt brand. I prefer Makita for high speed stuff that see a lot of metal work. No particular reason for the Makita loyalty other than that's what my grandfather has always used and I've never broken one.....
Ryobi hands down when it comes to cordless. I've thrown away about 2 DeWalt Cordless tools for every Ryobi I own. I've yet to have a Ryobi die on me. The batteries last much longer than the higher priced ones IMO and are half the cost to replace. My grandfather is still staying loyal to DeWalt (only because he has too much invested to change over). He just got two XRP drills back from the factory that were supposedly refurbished. Neither one works like it should. He also bought a new XRP while those were being rebuilt. It came with two of the Nano-Technology batteries.... Neither one ever took a single charge. That was a few weeks ago. I don't think DeWalt has sent the replacements yet...
A buddy of mine sold me on Ryobi when he was in the pool business. He'd run them under water when installing/repairing above ground pools. I asked him how many drills he went through using them in chlorinated/salt water.... He said "I'll let ya know when the first one dies." He used them for years and never had one fail. He ust spun the water out and threw them in the truck...
Edit: For the record, I'm not a Dewalt "hater". All of my corded carpentry tools are DeWalt brand. I prefer Makita for high speed stuff that see a lot of metal work. No particular reason for the Makita loyalty other than that's what my grandfather has always used and I've never broken one.....
Re: Cordless drill
I am a contractor and my stuff is used every day. I use Dewalt Milwaukee and Bosch. They all seem to be pretty quality tools.
Ihave never heard anyone say anything good about Ryobi untill just know.
Funny you should mention Ryobi and using them under water. My HVAC guy had a Ryobi burn up yesterday why using it in the rain.
I am a contractor and my stuff is used every day. I use Dewalt Milwaukee and Bosch. They all seem to be pretty quality tools.
Ihave never heard anyone say anything good about Ryobi untill just know.
Funny you should mention Ryobi and using them under water. My HVAC guy had a Ryobi burn up yesterday why using it in the rain.
Re: Cordless drill
Go pawn shopping!!!!!!! My brother in law is a contractor. He had a long time top of the line drill die on him. We went to pawn shop and there was the same drill for 1/3 of what he paid for his barely used. I haven't paid retail for a power tool in awhile. Also bought a Stihl Farm Boss for 1/2 retail that still had the original paint on the bar. Take cash. Cash is king in pawn shops. Ryobi batteries go bad quikley in my experience. Milwaukee first then DeWalt.
Go pawn shopping!!!!!!! My brother in law is a contractor. He had a long time top of the line drill die on him. We went to pawn shop and there was the same drill for 1/3 of what he paid for his barely used. I haven't paid retail for a power tool in awhile. Also bought a Stihl Farm Boss for 1/2 retail that still had the original paint on the bar. Take cash. Cash is king in pawn shops. Ryobi batteries go bad quikley in my experience. Milwaukee first then DeWalt.
Re: Cordless drill
Fortunately these days, most of the top brands you cant go wrong with. However I personally use a 36 volt set every day for the last 5 years, out side in the rain and snow covered in dirt and dust dropped, kicked, thrown and otherwise. The ONLY issue I've ever had is the batteries have been in and out so many times the locking device has worn and they are a little loose and you have to hold the battery in, but still have amazing power and a battery lasts for about a week at work. I say who cares how heavy they are whats the worst thing that could happen?....you get stronger. Final note! Stay away from Ryobi bull shit! Its the equivalent of comparing a tech9 to a AI.
Fortunately these days, most of the top brands you cant go wrong with. However I personally use a 36 volt set every day for the last 5 years, out side in the rain and snow covered in dirt and dust dropped, kicked, thrown and otherwise. The ONLY issue I've ever had is the batteries have been in and out so many times the locking device has worn and they are a little loose and you have to hold the battery in, but still have amazing power and a battery lasts for about a week at work. I say who cares how heavy they are whats the worst thing that could happen?....you get stronger. Final note! Stay away from Ryobi bull shit! Its the equivalent of comparing a tech9 to a AI.
Re: Cordless drill
+1 for the RIDGID 18V COMPACT from Home DEPOT. Lifetime on everything, 2 lit/ion batteries,smart charger,drill and some come packed with a drill driver.
+1 for the RIDGID 18V COMPACT from Home DEPOT. Lifetime on everything, 2 lit/ion batteries,smart charger,drill and some come packed with a drill driver.
Re: Cordless drill
I use only Dewalt XRP stuff at work as a commercial plumber. The lower grade products from Dewalt aren't anything special though. There's also nothing wrong with Makita or Milwaukee either.
I use only Dewalt XRP stuff at work as a commercial plumber. The lower grade products from Dewalt aren't anything special though. There's also nothing wrong with Makita or Milwaukee either.
Re: Cordless drill
One important thing I left out. I have absolutely no experience with the fancy colored lithium blah blah blah Ryobi tools. All of mine are the old blue and yellow tools with +one batteries(NiCd). Also, dead NiCd batteries can easily be restored by burning up the shorts with a couple of extra batteries wired in series. The older Ryobi batteries (not +one) weren't as durable as the +ones. The +ones combined with a smart charger will last for a good while in storage or heavy use. Most people that have bad luck with batteries aren't maintaining them properly. I've never fooled with lithium batteries of any brand, so my comparisons may be dated.... I've always heard that the lithiums were touted for their weight savings, which is irrelevant to me.
One important thing I left out. I have absolutely no experience with the fancy colored lithium blah blah blah Ryobi tools. All of mine are the old blue and yellow tools with +one batteries(NiCd). Also, dead NiCd batteries can easily be restored by burning up the shorts with a couple of extra batteries wired in series. The older Ryobi batteries (not +one) weren't as durable as the +ones. The +ones combined with a smart charger will last for a good while in storage or heavy use. Most people that have bad luck with batteries aren't maintaining them properly. I've never fooled with lithium batteries of any brand, so my comparisons may be dated.... I've always heard that the lithiums were touted for their weight savings, which is irrelevant to me.
Re: Cordless drill
Panasonic is my favorite.
I don't like the weight or "feel" of the Dewalts. Lithiums are sensitive to moisture. So how your going to use it will make a difference.
Panasonic is my favorite.
I don't like the weight or "feel" of the Dewalts. Lithiums are sensitive to moisture. So how your going to use it will make a difference.
Re: Cordless drill
i will second (third? fourth? I did not read all the replies...) vote for LiIon batteries. 20 minute full charge on the 18-20 volt tools I own.
I have 3 brands in my "arsenal" and all have their merits and use.
I have a Ridgid 18v impact driver, lifetime warranty on batteries with free replacement. CANNOT BEAT THIS. The tool itself is warranted forever too under the service contract I purchased at the time for an additional 5 bucks.
I have a Hitachi 18v LI drill - nice workhorse, quick charge time and pretty handy to carry, lacks a bit holder on the version i got. Purchased with "atta-boy" points thru a rewards program at work. DEFINITELY worth the price paid.
Last Christmas my dad gave me a dewalt impact and hammer drill set. got an 18v battery and a 20v high capacity battery that fit both units. charge time for either is less than a half hour. I have yet to use the hammer drill function, but with the 20v battery, the drill will probably snap my wrist if i let it. very powerful drill. in a side by side comparison the dewalt will drive 6" 3/8's lag screws flush into 2 stacked 2x4's about a full second faster than the hitachi, and holds a charge longer...a LOT longer.
Now let's talk about impact driver vs. drill. First off, the impacts i own are considerably lighter than the drills. second, i get no torque kickback when driving screws. once you try an impact driver, for MOST things you use one of these things for, they are the bee's knees. I even use both of my impacts for speedy lugnut removal on my cars when performing routine maint. I break the lugs loose with a breaker bar, and then jack the car and fire them off and on with the impact driver. Tighten to torque with a proper torque wrench.
Comparing the two dewalt devices side by side to run 3.5" drywall screws in during a bathroom remodel - the drill is a bit quicker to sink the screw, but maintaining proper depth on the screw was a challenge but with the impact, i have alot more control, and a TON less hand fatigue because there is NO torque transfer to the handle. I've used the crap out of both impacts and neither is showing any signs of wear or giving up. another thing about the impacts...i have yet to bugger up a phillips head screw when using the impact. drills are notorious for fawking up screws. I wish i had an impact back when i was building speaker boxes at a stereo shop for a living.
Give an impact a try and see for yourself. there's a ton of drill bits for normal household stuff that come fitted with a hex end for use on the impact drivers too.
Comparing the dewalt to the ridgid...the dewalt has 3 LED's to light the way, located in the head of the driver. the ridgid has one, located at the battery. Dewalt wins...it lights the area I want lit. the dewalt has more oomph. it's faster by a half inch on the lag bolt test above. I can drive drywall screws with a single hand. I tried to find a video i made firing a 3.5" drywall screw into the wall one handed while filming with the other hand...it is really effortless. The dewalt has another feature i like alot, a spring assisted bit eject when changing bits. not a big deal, but i like it.
my uncle is a drywaller by trade. I asked him one day if he tried using an impact for doing drywall screws. he actualy carries 2 Milwaukee mini impacts and says that the chargers and drivers keep him at a constant pace when hanging sheets. he and one other guy can do 4 full 1200 sq foot apartments and the hallways in a single day with them and when they used the heavy drywall screw guns, they were only able to accomplish 3 apartments and were much more fatigued at the end of the day. That is what prompted me to get the impact in the first place - i was working on the same bathroom project mentioned above, and had a bunch of concrete backerboard to hang and lay on the floor. the impact made quick work of this and sinking the screws to a perfect just below flush was unbelievably easy. doing the same with the hitachi and it's horrible clutch was just simply NO comparison at all.
both drills spend more time on the shelf or in the toolbox than the impacts. Nuff said. sorry for the long winded post
i will second (third? fourth? I did not read all the replies...) vote for LiIon batteries. 20 minute full charge on the 18-20 volt tools I own.
I have 3 brands in my "arsenal" and all have their merits and use.
I have a Ridgid 18v impact driver, lifetime warranty on batteries with free replacement. CANNOT BEAT THIS. The tool itself is warranted forever too under the service contract I purchased at the time for an additional 5 bucks.
I have a Hitachi 18v LI drill - nice workhorse, quick charge time and pretty handy to carry, lacks a bit holder on the version i got. Purchased with "atta-boy" points thru a rewards program at work. DEFINITELY worth the price paid.
Last Christmas my dad gave me a dewalt impact and hammer drill set. got an 18v battery and a 20v high capacity battery that fit both units. charge time for either is less than a half hour. I have yet to use the hammer drill function, but with the 20v battery, the drill will probably snap my wrist if i let it. very powerful drill. in a side by side comparison the dewalt will drive 6" 3/8's lag screws flush into 2 stacked 2x4's about a full second faster than the hitachi, and holds a charge longer...a LOT longer.
Now let's talk about impact driver vs. drill. First off, the impacts i own are considerably lighter than the drills. second, i get no torque kickback when driving screws. once you try an impact driver, for MOST things you use one of these things for, they are the bee's knees. I even use both of my impacts for speedy lugnut removal on my cars when performing routine maint. I break the lugs loose with a breaker bar, and then jack the car and fire them off and on with the impact driver. Tighten to torque with a proper torque wrench.
Comparing the two dewalt devices side by side to run 3.5" drywall screws in during a bathroom remodel - the drill is a bit quicker to sink the screw, but maintaining proper depth on the screw was a challenge but with the impact, i have alot more control, and a TON less hand fatigue because there is NO torque transfer to the handle. I've used the crap out of both impacts and neither is showing any signs of wear or giving up. another thing about the impacts...i have yet to bugger up a phillips head screw when using the impact. drills are notorious for fawking up screws. I wish i had an impact back when i was building speaker boxes at a stereo shop for a living.
Give an impact a try and see for yourself. there's a ton of drill bits for normal household stuff that come fitted with a hex end for use on the impact drivers too.
Comparing the dewalt to the ridgid...the dewalt has 3 LED's to light the way, located in the head of the driver. the ridgid has one, located at the battery. Dewalt wins...it lights the area I want lit. the dewalt has more oomph. it's faster by a half inch on the lag bolt test above. I can drive drywall screws with a single hand. I tried to find a video i made firing a 3.5" drywall screw into the wall one handed while filming with the other hand...it is really effortless. The dewalt has another feature i like alot, a spring assisted bit eject when changing bits. not a big deal, but i like it.
my uncle is a drywaller by trade. I asked him one day if he tried using an impact for doing drywall screws. he actualy carries 2 Milwaukee mini impacts and says that the chargers and drivers keep him at a constant pace when hanging sheets. he and one other guy can do 4 full 1200 sq foot apartments and the hallways in a single day with them and when they used the heavy drywall screw guns, they were only able to accomplish 3 apartments and were much more fatigued at the end of the day. That is what prompted me to get the impact in the first place - i was working on the same bathroom project mentioned above, and had a bunch of concrete backerboard to hang and lay on the floor. the impact made quick work of this and sinking the screws to a perfect just below flush was unbelievably easy. doing the same with the hitachi and it's horrible clutch was just simply NO comparison at all.
both drills spend more time on the shelf or in the toolbox than the impacts. Nuff said. sorry for the long winded post
Re: Cordless drill
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: G-rott</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Lithiums are sensitive to moisture.</div></div>
I'm not sure where you got this from, but the sort of lithium cells used in power tools are sealed in metal "cans", just like old-school NiCad and NiMH cells. Moisture ain't gonna hurt 'em.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: G-rott</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Lithiums are sensitive to moisture.</div></div>
I'm not sure where you got this from, but the sort of lithium cells used in power tools are sealed in metal "cans", just like old-school NiCad and NiMH cells. Moisture ain't gonna hurt 'em.
Re: Cordless drill
Makita LXT, even the batteries are bad ass. I picked up a kit about 5 or so years off ebay, the guy threw in 2 extra batteries for free since it took him so long to get it to me. All 4 batteries are as good as the day I got them. All my old dewalt stuff shows its age before that, yet gets used an equal amount.
Makita LXT, even the batteries are bad ass. I picked up a kit about 5 or so years off ebay, the guy threw in 2 extra batteries for free since it took him so long to get it to me. All 4 batteries are as good as the day I got them. All my old dewalt stuff shows its age before that, yet gets used an equal amount.
Re: Cordless drill
I use milwaukee for the cordless tools. Almost every construction job I've ever been on in 12 years the milwaukee stuff has less problems and lasts longer on a charge than a de walt. I've had a 18 volt milwaukee for 4 years and had a dewalt that lasted about 2.5 years before that one.
I use milwaukee for the cordless tools. Almost every construction job I've ever been on in 12 years the milwaukee stuff has less problems and lasts longer on a charge than a de walt. I've had a 18 volt milwaukee for 4 years and had a dewalt that lasted about 2.5 years before that one.
Re: Cordless drill
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rem7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Buy once cry once, HILTI </div></div>
Hilti is heavy stuff to use all day though. Especially overhead.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rem7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Buy once cry once, HILTI </div></div>
Hilti is heavy stuff to use all day though. Especially overhead.
Re: Cordless drill
I recommend Hilti. The only thing is you have to go to Home Depot. I recommend them over Milwaukee , Dewalt, Makita, etc. You won't be disappointed.
I recommend Hilti. The only thing is you have to go to Home Depot. I recommend them over Milwaukee , Dewalt, Makita, etc. You won't be disappointed.
Re: Cordless drill
I recently purchased a set of Rigid drill and impact driver. Rigid is a HD brand that offers Lifetime Service when you register it (yes, that process is more than painful). The LiIon battery pack is very nice and recharge time is very fast (10 min). As with most of todays drills, it has a LED light. If you haven't used an impact, you don't know what your are missing for screws. I got my combo for $179 with an extra battery (3 total).
I still have a Craftsman drill (and other tool combo), but it is heavier and the batteries give up too fast. Free replacement at Sears if less than 1 yr.
I recently purchased a set of Rigid drill and impact driver. Rigid is a HD brand that offers Lifetime Service when you register it (yes, that process is more than painful). The LiIon battery pack is very nice and recharge time is very fast (10 min). As with most of todays drills, it has a LED light. If you haven't used an impact, you don't know what your are missing for screws. I got my combo for $179 with an extra battery (3 total).
I still have a Craftsman drill (and other tool combo), but it is heavier and the batteries give up too fast. Free replacement at Sears if less than 1 yr.
Re: Cordless drill
I would stay away from Milwaukee their newer drills are made in China and are JUNK! I sell them and turn people away from them, a co-worker has had to replace four battery packs in 3 years with his. We use them in our rental Department and have had for years, the Chinese made ones are always being sent back for repair. The U.S. made stuff it top notch, just not much of it out there.
I would stay away from Milwaukee their newer drills are made in China and are JUNK! I sell them and turn people away from them, a co-worker has had to replace four battery packs in 3 years with his. We use them in our rental Department and have had for years, the Chinese made ones are always being sent back for repair. The U.S. made stuff it top notch, just not much of it out there.
Re: Cordless drill
I used to use cordless drills but they die faster, weight, cost more and have less power. The battery's don't last more then a few years. Unless you really need to use a drill outside just get a corded drill.
I have gone through 2 Hitachi's chucks fractured on both. I had a Milwaukee which just died, and another drill which I don't remember the name for which was 17.6 volt and the batteries died. I also have a old Black and Decker drill which is still working and all the Dewalt stuff I buy seems to never die.
I used to use cordless drills but they die faster, weight, cost more and have less power. The battery's don't last more then a few years. Unless you really need to use a drill outside just get a corded drill.
I have gone through 2 Hitachi's chucks fractured on both. I had a Milwaukee which just died, and another drill which I don't remember the name for which was 17.6 volt and the batteries died. I also have a old Black and Decker drill which is still working and all the Dewalt stuff I buy seems to never die.
