Thread: Cordless Drill/Driver Recommendations

All good info folks. When I first saw that Panasonic makes cordless drill/drivers, I kind of did a double take, but from what I've read they seem to be very good tools --- some say the best cordless drills around.

Justin

I had exactly the same reaction, the first time the seller told me.

But I am sure glad I bought it.
Remember, the pleasure of using something good outlasts the pain of paying for it.

Originally Posted by Bruno

I had exactly the same reaction, the first time the seller told me.

But I am sure glad I bought it.
Remember, the pleasure of using something good outlasts the pain of paying for it.

I think this is true. In the past I've tried to skimp on things and try to get by with a lesser quality tool (mostly because of financial necessity) just to find out that the tool didn't do what I needed it to --- usually having to buy something else to get the job done . So I agree.


Justin

Another thing to look at is compatiability. I like the dewalt because of the 18 volt circular saw that uses the same battery. Both of my tools are going on seven years old and still on my original 3 battery packs (they are getting weak). The drill has good torque and the battery will last a long time. The drill is a bit heavy. I don't know if they are still doing it but craftsman would change battery type every couple of years thus making a tool with bad batterys junk.

Untill they standardize batterys look at what else is avalable from that manufacture. I don't love battery tools but I sure do like them.

Don

I have actually had excellent results with Ryobi as well.

If money were no object AND I used the tools to earn my living, I might pop for the DeWalt or Panasonic. From a value and performance standpoint, the Ryobi is pretty hard to beat, especially taking into account the new Li batteries available for them (as mentioned) without buying all new tools.

My last 18v drill, saw combo pack lasted 3 years on the original batteries. After pretty heavy home-owner use, I just replaced one of the batteries last year after it refused a charge. I actually boutght 2 replacements, using the one remaining old one to power the light that came with the original set. MUCH cheaper than replacing the tool and I actually use them quite a bit. The drill is actually a 3 speed hammer-drill and works well for light duty concrete drilling along with the routine wood-work and such.

Again, YMMV....

Allen

Wow, thanks for the info Tim. I didn't know Ryobi was that good with drills now. Maybe I just got a crap one

That can be one of things you pay for too consistancy.

My Ryobi is ancient and still works great. The one I used for work was about 5 years old and working well even after a ten foot drop onto comcrete.

I do construction on an almost daily basis (kitchen and cabinet installer for Lowes and Home Depot as well as General Contractor) i use alot of tools (alot).

I am a firm believer in Ryobi. Their drills are amazing and one battery (18v) lasts all day unless i am drilling through concrete.
I have the whole Ryobi set and i love em all, except the sawzall, because i think it saws too slowly.

If you're interested in the cheap side, I bought a 19.2 volt from Harbor Freight... it works ok for around the house duty and the best part is it was only $19 (on sale). I've had it for about a year now and used it when I gutted my kitchen and replaced everything... new cabinets, new countertop/backsplash, some new walls, etc. Currently, it's in use as I convert my carport into a closed-in garage.

If I had more money I would have bought a better one elsewhere... but I can't say I'm disappointed in this one as I've more than gotten my money's worth from it.

I use pretty much the entire line of 18 volt DeWalt tools professionally and they are excellent. They are very rugged and hold up to quite a bit of abuse such as dropping them from the top of a ladder.
That said they do tend to be cumbersome and heavy so it depends on what you are going to be using them for.
If casual use then I would recommend the Harbor Freight ones as they are a great bang for the buck. Also the Ryobi does well in the home environment.

Ted