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@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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