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<div dir="auto">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.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">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.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">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.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">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.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">Karl</div><div dir='auto'><br></div>
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<div dir="auto">On August 2, 2023 7:57:43 PM Joe Szwed <szwedj@gmail.com> wrote:</div>
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<div dir="auto">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.</div>
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<div dir="auto">Joe</div>
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