[Shop-talk] Battery-operated tools

[Pat Horne]

Bob,

I've been using DeWalt cordless stuff since the 14.4v stuff was new. I now have 18v tools and really like them. The new, lighter batteries are great!

I had a few 18v Milwaukee tools for a while but they didn't live up to my expectations. Our Habitat electrical crew used to use them too but had too much trouble with reliability so they changed to DeWalt. 

Several things to consider:
Newer, higher voltage tools are great but they cost more. 

Consider factory refurbished tools, much cheaper. (I bought a 1/2" drill, 1/4" impact driver, 2 XLR batteries case @ a charger for $110.)

Whatever brand you select, buy tools that use the same battery. That way you can buy a few batteries, 1 charger & bare tools. Much cheaper that way. 

Pat Horne 
We support Caldwell County Habitat for Humanity


On Apr 9, 2016, at 11:02 AM, Bob Spidell <bspidell at comcast.net> wrote:

Folks,

I realize this is like bringing up 'best oil' or 'best tires' on a car list, but I'm in the market for a battery drill/driver/sander/etc. combo to replace my ancient--but still working--Makita 9V driver-drill.  I want something with all the 'goodies;' I'll need the usual driver/drill, but also need a portable sander (belt and/or disc), and at least the option for more attachments.

I know I probably can't lose with DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita or even Craftsman--hell, they might all come out of the same factory in China for all I know--but would like to see if there's a consensus on best overall.  Is more voltage always better, or is 14.4V better for some reason than 19.2V, etc.?    My main issue, and the reason I haven't retired the old Makita yet, is that the batteries always seem to lose capacity over time.  The 9V Makita is nickel-metal-hydride, and both the OEM--which are too expensive IMO--and cheap, off-brand aftermarket ones all lose charge when not used, and lose capacity after repeated charging.  I know Li-Ion is better, but a battery is a battery, and they all will lose some capacity over time.

Any and all opinions, rants, etc. welcome.

Bob
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