[Shop-talk] homeowner/ shop guy cordless drill

[Karl Vacek]

I got good use out of a 14V DeWalt drill over 20 years, but the batteries 
were a big bother and expense.  I gave up on genuine DeWalt batteries early 
on because all they offered then was NiCad and they're just a pain, with 
their low capacity, memory issues, and no smart charger/conditioner.  Began 
buying NiMH Chinese ones off eBay and had far better luck.  But technology 
advanced and my drill was relatively weak and had no hammer capability.  I 
was still using corded drills when I needed power or had lots of work to do.

Then in about 2000 I got a Christmas deal on a Milwaukee Fuel 18V hammer 
drill and 1/4" impact set with 2 batteries, plus another battery free, from 
Homey.  All 5AH batteries, both tools are Fuel (meaning brushless - 
powerful and not battery hungry).  Batteries are computer equipped and 
sense load, temp, and state of charge.  Charger is fast, though they do 
sell even faster ones that do 2 batteries at once if you're a contractor.

For me these are pretty perfect.  The impact handles not only construction 
work but most automotive stuff too.  I still need a real impact for big 
things, but the battery one is fine for run of the mill fasteners.  My $230 
investment was well worth it, and I almost never charge batteries any more.

I recently added the 18V Fuel Multi tool after my second Horrible Fart one 
broke just after the warrantee.  Comparatively quiet, powerful, and fast 
tool changes.  Incredibly handy.  And I already have batteries.

Karl

On August 2, 2023 7:57:43 PM Joe Szwed <szwedj at gmail.com> wrote:

> To me the batteries are the expensive part, so I would look to see who may 
> offer other tools you may like.  Once you have a couple batteries, you can 
> add tools by buying them without batteries.  I started with the 18v Dewalt 
> and since I do a fair amount of mechanical work I need a 1/2” impact.  The 
> Dewalt 18v impact was a big disappointment for me.  I had heard a lot of 
> good things about Milwaukee’s 18v impact and decided to try it, but being 
> on the cheap side, what I did was buy a starter kit on sale at Homedepot 
> with a battery and a charger.  Then I picked up a new in the box tool only 
> 1/2” impact off eBay.  It worked out well enough for me that I have added 
> other tools as needed.  I bought a 1/2” drill, sawzall, 4” disc grinder, 
> multi tool, die grinder and I’m looking to add a circular saw and heat gun 
> next.  I’ve paid anywhere from $100 to $170 ea for the tools I have added 
> so far mostly from eBay or other online tool sales.
>
> Joe
>
> Sent from my iPhone
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