My 10 year old Drill and impact driver bit the dust. Researching which one to get next will make you dizzy, The Home Depot Salesperson is trying to talk me into a Ridgid brand set. Mostly because of the free batteries for life thing. Can someone here provide a recommendation? I should think 18 volts would be enough for benchwork and general homeowner usage?
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I am very happy with my DeWalt Max lithium battery power tools. As far as I know, they are available in 12 and 20 volt versions. A know a number of professional auto mechanics that use them, and they are seen on most of the home improvement / flip shows that my wife likes.
I have the 1/4 inch impact driver and the drills in both 12v and 20v.
Be aware that DeWalt has other battery systems. I am writing specifically about the Max system
I bought the Ridgid set from HD 4 years ago. They have been outstanding. Batteries recharge fairly quickly. I don't know where I would have been without them, they've made layout construction a breeze.
I agree with CW above. A few years ago I got a DeWalt 12 volt Max Lithium-Ion drill & impact driver set at Home Depot for around $129. Included 2 batteries and charger. I liked it so well I bought another set a couple weeks later for I think $89-$99 that was on special because it had no box. That gave me 2 each of the drills and impact drivers, 2 chargers and 4 batteries. Theses are the best battery drills I have ever owned or used. A couple weeks later I added the matching 12 volt flashlight.
I went with the 12 volt model for size and weight, very small and lightweight. The 12 volt set still has plenty of power and battery life. The small size is great for tight places that you wouldn't be able to get an 18-20 volt drill into. I haven't used the impact driver much, but the drills have had plenty of use and are still going strong. I have been very pleased with these sets.
I don't see the sets I have on the HD website, but here is a link to the drill, 2 batteries and charger. They also list the impact driver separately as well.
I have never owned or used a Rigid brand drill or impact driver, but the battery for life deal certainly sounds pretty good. That is if the batteries will be still available that long and won't be upgraded to something else in a different style or type. Things don't seem to stay the same very long these days, they are always changing, updating and "improving" things.
I purchased a Milwaukee nut driver for work years ago. It has been used daily for years and I can't imagine any tool being abused more. Turning the handle on a tight nut or bolt and using it like a breaker bar. Been dropped numerous times with no damage. I was pleased enough to buy both a drill and driver for home use. All are the 12v models. Small, light in weight, plenty of power and the batteries seem to last.
Probably one of the best carry-cases that I have. Impact top, Drill/driver bottom. Four batteries, will fit both tools. There are two chargers, one in each case. Dewalt has a pretty good repair service, you can get parts if needed. I've replaced a couple of switches. Note that the high power, permanent magnets, part of the DC motor(s), will attract metal filing, drill hole scrap, especially when drilling, or driving self drillers overhead. Check with you supplier, the batteries eventually will need replaced. A good/very good supplier will recycle the batteries for you, not just throw them in the trash. Recently purchased two new batteries, as a comb set, at one of the big boxes.
Some like a drill bit chuck that uses a key. Drill/Driver pictured has a hand tighten, 1/2" chuck, (largest bit with out a reduced shank).
It also doubles as a hammer drill. Not the best, but with good masonry bits, will drill a decent hole in concrete block for plastic anchor sets.
DC825 Impact driver.
DC 925 Drill/Driver/Hammer Drill
Best to mark the batteries with your name. Many jobs, part of the end of the day routine, is collecting your batteries.
Note that to date, Lithium ion batteries appear to be relatively safe and user friendly. Lithium polymer batteries are different, requiring addition safety precautions. I have yet to see Lithium polymer in power tools. Found in cell phones, model airplanes, and lap-top computers, etc.
Dave_C posted:I purchased a Milwaukee nut driver for work years ago. It has been used daily for years and I can't imagine any tool being abused more. Turning the handle on a tight nut or bolt and using it like a breaker bar. Been dropped numerous times with no damage. I was pleased enough to buy both a drill and driver for home use. All are the 12v models. Small, light in weight, plenty of power and the batteries seem to last.
Milwaukee was tough years ago. I am not sure about today's tools though. They seem to have switched manufacturers. I had a Milwaukee drill that started spewing molten metal. I used it so much over the years it just disintegrated. Wish i could buy that tool again. It was the corded variety.
Go with the dewalt in the biggest volt size you can get. I have every tool including the nail gun, they are awesome!
I have quite a few of these hand guns both corded and battery. My favorite are the Bosch 12 volt set, the Ridgid 18 volt set and Makita corded. There are times one just needs to drill a bunch of 2 Xs and battery is just a bit slow overall.
When I bore 1/2" holes 4" up a solid wood leg for the adjustable feet battery anything is too slow. Now here is one Makita I would really like to try:
You can put all your benchwork together with this set. I did my 16' by 20' U shaped L-girder benchwork with just those two and a saw.
I've got a Makita 12V and an 18V impact driver. The 12 V is useful for screwing track down and thats about it. Get an 18V for general purpose use. Not saying the 12V cant screw stuff together, but it definitely labors a lot more than the 18V. I use the 18V for almost everything, train stuff and house stuff. Never had a problem getting it to pound something together. I bought Makitas for the battery warranty vs Dewalts, but I've had no problems with the batteries. The Makita combo kit also came with the fast charger, so I'm back in business in 15 minutes.
My buddy has the dewalt 20V and bought a 5aH battery, it lasts forever. It seems like a decent tool as well.
Dont think you can go wrong with either.
Definitely get the Lithium ion batteries. They're lighter, and seem to last longer, since they run until dead and then die all at once, as opposed to the old style batteries that slowly die as you go.
I have the dewalt 20v max setup. They also make a sliding compound miter saw that runs off the battery so no cord. I LOVE that saw! It has replaced my corded one and can cut almost any framing material.
I will chime in on this one. I purchased a Makita 20 volt impact driver around 8 years ago. I liked it so much I went out and bought another one. I have used those two impact drivers for everything, building decks, driving lag bolts...I have literally driven millions of screws! Of all the tools I own, those two impact drivers are by far the best purchases I have made. That being said, right before Christmas, I purchased a Dewalt brushless impact driver. The brushless model is the best that Dewalt makes. It is a fine tool, but it does not compare to the Makita impact drivers.
John H posted:You can put all your benchwork together with this set. I did my 16' by 20' U shaped L-girder benchwork with just those two and a saw.
I have this exact set and it has served me well also. 
The added bonus is that I can interchange the batteries with my Ryobi ONE+ Trimmer.
Or any other Ryobi ONE+ tool for that matter. A great selling point if ya ask me.
PUFFRBELLY posted:John H posted:You can put all your benchwork together with this set. I did my 16' by 20' U shaped L-girder benchwork with just those two and a saw.
I'm in agreement on the Ryobi ONE+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit (2-Tool).
Chief Bob (Retired)
Some of the reviews on this set are saying the drill chuck loosens up during use. Are you seeing this issue? How long ago did you purchase your set?
Some of the reviews on this set are saying the drill chuck loosens up during use.
I had a Black and Decker with a drill chuck that wouldn't hold the bits tightly. No matter how tight the chuck was, the drill would slip. I finally called Black and Decker service, and they sent me a replacement chuck. If there is a problem, maybe Ryobi would do the same.
Any good brand as Dewalt or Makita will get the job done. I am partial to Makita.
TurtleLinez posted:PUFFRBELLY posted:John H posted:You can put all your benchwork together with this set. I did my 16' by 20' U shaped L-girder benchwork with just those two and a saw.
I'm in agreement on the Ryobi ONE+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit (2-Tool).
Chief Bob (Retired)
Some of the reviews on this set are saying the drill chuck loosens up during use. Are you seeing this issue? How long ago did you purchase your set?
I haven't experienced any problems of any nature with either tool in this set. I've had my set for about a year of so. Hope this helps.
Chief Bob (Retired)
Any opinions on the Hitachi 18 volt set? http://www.lowes.com/pd/Hitach...h-Soft-Case/50300609
I bought a Milwaulkee 12 volt set and used it to completely build my layout,I used 1x3 lumber for all my framing and made the tables moduler-4x8 so i could modify the layout if neccessary. I bought two batteries and with the amount of construction to put together the tables this 12 volt worked perfectly for me. The 12volt drill has a pistol grip and it sure is nice to use, plus it is light weight and can get into smaller spaces. I built a 11x20 U shaped layout in a 3rd bedroom. I predrilled my screw holes for easier work and the drill worked fine.I did use 2x4s for the legs.
John H posted:You can put all your benchwork together with this set. I did my 16' by 20' U shaped L-girder benchwork with just those two and a saw.
I second this. Used this set for all of my of my bench work and remodeling more of my house than I care to remember. 
lowes has this set on sale for Fathers day: Dewalt Combo Kit
Here is a review of 16 lighter weight cordless drills Sweet Home cordless drill review
I have had the Bosh 12v driver for years. Easily built my layout, plenty of power and doesn't wear out. Very light weight too.
For the super tough outdoor jobs I got the higher end Hitachi 18v drill. Overkill for almost everything indoors.
Dan
Additional.
Impact driver. Magnetic tip holder, #2 Phillips bit , and other assorted driver heads related to the screw(s) that you would use.
Drill driver Very good drill bit set by 1/64. Largest bit 1/4". Larger bits can be individually purchased. You may also want to consider a hole saw kit. Masonry bits and may be a speed bit for large holes in wood.
Note the missing bits, that's why there are two sets. I try to refill/replace bits, as needed, every trip to the hardware store.
Speed bit is the flat long bit. Uni-bit also shown. Five bits to the right are 1/4"masonry bits, usually provided with a box of plastic anchors.
Additional bits.
Hole saw kit. Standard pipe sizes. 1/2"(7/8"), 3/4"(1 1/8"), 1"(1 3/8"), 1 1/4"(1 3/4"), 1 1/2"(2"), 2"(2 1/2") There are a lot of sizes available in addition to those in this kit.
IMO, budget 1/2 again the price of the tool for the cutter/drill equipment needed to go with it, IMO.
Mike CT
I have the Dewalt 6 Pack kit. The only issue I see with Dewalt is they apear to be phasing out the 18V and pimpin the 20V Li- Ion. Its only a matter of time before the 18V will not be serviced by them anymore.
I bought the Milwaukee 12V right angle battery op drill at a flea market on a whim. Have no complaints, but it does have torque limitations. I bought a used 1/2" Milwaukee Drill that was painted orange at a flea marker for $17 hoping it worked. I presume it was previously a rental at the orange box store. My only complaint is too much power. If it grabs something, you better let go of the drill. I have a SDS Milwaukee Hammer Drill/Driver that I bought new and it has been flawless. Again, it also has a lot of torque. For bench stuff I have a Ryobi set of 4V lithium tools my son bought me for fathers day. All tools use the same circular battery that usually goes in the handle. The 1/4" drill has an LED, two speeds and two directions. Very useful. There was a pair of noise cancelling headphones and a flashlight. The flashlight was CREE LED light and extremely bright. There was also a pair of elec scissors that had the same body as the drill driver. That little tool has been a gem. I've used it many times to cut cardboard, small gauge wires and anything that the jaws can get to.
Extensive drilling is done with this tool Milwaukee 1675-1 two speed 1000 RPM or 300 RPM. As AUSSTEVE noted it comes with a warning. 
It can break an arm, or throw you off a ladder. Drill bit pictured is a 1" X 18" ship auger, which allows for easy chip removal from the holes. Short bit is also a ship auger.
For you non-tradesmen, I have had super value with Ryobi from HD. I've used them for 15+ years. Replacement batteries are too costly for ALL cordless tools, so you might as well buy the whole set.
Dave g.
Mike CT posted:Extensive drilling is done with this tool Milwaukee 1675-1 two speed 1000 RPM or 300 RPM. As AUSSTEVE noted it comes with a warning.
When I was an apprentice back in the mid '70s (not electrician, different trade) a guy in my class did break his arm using a similar drill. I forget what he was drilling through, but the bit hung up and drill kept turning with him holding on. These things really are dangerous and can do some serious damage if you are not very careful, and injury is still possible even if you are being careful.
It is very usefull to have two of the drills, that way you are not constantly switching bits.
I got this set from Craftsman. Works very well. Includes drill and impact driver. Aslo includes 2 lithium batteries, case and Lithium charger. Often goes on sale for 109.
What safety procedures do you all use with Lithium batteries when charging, using or storing them?
The Dewalt Lithium battery tools that I own come with decent chargers that do not over charge them. I keep the ones that are not mounted on a tool in heavy duty plastic bags so the contacts cannot get shorted. I have not seen any mention online or in the media of there being problems with the batteries.
Are you aware of cases where they exploded, burst or leaked, other than when they suffered physical damage?
C W Burfle posted:What safety procedures do you all use with Lithium batteries when charging, using or storing them?
The Dewalt Lithium battery tools that I own come with decent chargers that do not over charge them. I keep the ones that are not mounted on a tool in heavy duty plastic bags so the contacts cannot get shorted. I have not seen any mention online or in the media of there being problems with the batteries.
Are you aware of cases where they exploded, burst or leaked, other than when they suffered physical damage?
Previously noted:
Note that to date, Lithium ion batteries appear to be relatively safe and user friendly. Lithium polymer batteries are different, requiring addition safety precautions. I have yet to see Lithium polymer in power tools. Found in cell phones, model airplanes, and lap-top computers, etc. Add cameras.
The Model airplane hobby talks about crash and burn. Most warnings posted on the internet, talk about removing the batteries and supplying containment. There is a crack the case, and expose to air problem. There are instructions on proper charging also. If you search the net on this subject, you will probably fined a picture or two of lap top computers that have torched. Lithium polymer batteries have the best power to weight ratio at this time. Used in the Tesla (electric car, note that at least (3) have burned), and the Boeing 777. The 777 was grounded for awhile because of the battery fire potential. I believe battery containment was re-thought at the time. Also note that battery containment was changed on the Chevrolet Volt, which is a hybrid with a battery. Prius, to date, does not use either of the Lithium batteries mention. Foggy head thinks the Prius' battery is Sodium hydride. First responders have, (or should have) information on these battery fires, You can not use water on a lithium polymer battery fire, it only accelerates the problem.
I was concerned at the time, with (5) trucks and as many as (4) Lithium Ion batteries in each truck. Knowing how each truck/and the tool storage looked on a daily basis, I had a high blood pressure moment. Torch a battery, or drill, still a relatively small problem, loose a truck with all the tools, a significant problem.
Best wishes CW
Mike CT.
Mike CT posted:Lithium polymer batteries have the best power to weight ratio at this time. Used in the Tesla (electric car, note that at least (3) have burned), and the Boeing 777. The 777 was grounded for awhile because of the battery fire potential. I believe battery containment was re-thought at the time.
Uhh... Actually it was the 787 Dreamliner. The 777 doesn't use lithium batteries.
gunrunnerjohn posted:Mike CT posted:Lithium polymer batteries have the best power to weight ratio at this time. Used in the Tesla (electric car, note that at least (3) have burned), and the Boeing 777. The 777 was grounded for awhile because of the battery fire potential. I believe battery containment was re-thought at the time.Uhh... Actually it was the 787 Dreamliner. The 777 doesn't use lithium batteries.
I do not think there are any LIPO tools. I use them in model airplanes. I charge them in clay pots. I am positive to wrap or separate the connectors so there is no possibility of a short. I store them in a place where if they did ignite they would not burn the house down. I have a smoke detector right above them.
While I have never had a problem, I have seen videos. Very hot and nasty fire from what I can see.
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