New Cordless Drill?
After 15 years and 3 sets of (free!) battery replacements, my Rigid 18v cordless 1/2" drill is about done, so shopping I must go. So [Festool EXcluded] who's got what that they like?
New Cordless Drill?
Posts
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#2Re: New Cordless Drill?
Last December, I purchased the BOSCH chameleon 12v.. So far it has worked well and I find the attachments handy.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Bosch-Flexiclick-12-Volt-1-4-in-Cordless-Drill-Charger-Included/1000329709
BOSCH has a 18v brushless Chameleon -- https://www.boschtools.com/us/en/boschtools-ocs/cordless-drill-drivers-gsr18v-535fcb15-202150-p/
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#3
Re: New Cordless Drill?
No complaints with my new Milwaukee M18 Fuel brushless hammer drill. It's certainly the most powerful battery-operated drill I've ever used. I got it because I occasionally need a hammer drill for brick and concrete, and this keeps me from having to transport a separate corded hammer drill to job sites.
I also have the smaller non-Fuel 12V Milwaukee drill and impact, as frankly, they are fine for most of what I do. (Usually IT related, installing rack servers, access points, running cables, etc.) In fact, if using the M18 as a screwdriver, it might be overkill. It's too powerful, and it has an electronic clutch that doesn't regulate down as much as other drills. IOW, it would be easy to strip a screw or drive it further than you intended. That's why I prefer the 12V drill and impact for most of what I do. But if you are going to install a deck driving screws for hours on end, or need to punch through a foot of concrete, it's the cat's meow.
The M18 came with a battery charger that charges both 12V and 18V batteries, so that's nice. One less charger to keep track of. And they both charge FAST.
Probably the biggest advantage to using Milwaukee tools while doing electrical work on a job site is that other construction workers think I actually know what I'm doing. 
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#4
Re: New Cordless Drill?
I like that concept and considered it, but I had already bought the M18 Milwaukee and didn't want the hassle of having to keep up with two battery systems. Being able to just swap out for a 90-degree angle head would be handy, instead of having to buy and carry a separate drill, or use one of those adapters I've always found to be rather klunky.
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#5Re: New Cordless Drill?
I have had a 12volt Bosch drill and impact driver for probably fifteen years and find them entirely adequate in the shop. Nice, small, fit the hand and powerful enough.
My son has the Milwaukee 18 volt stuff and likes them a lot.
I find the impact driver very useful for screws. If I were building deck regularly I would go with the 18 volt stuff.
My son and I both have other tools like multitools and a circular saw.
You know the drill, pick a platform and stick with it. Sadly, the big amp hour batteries are ridiculously expensive. Almost seems like if you buy the batteries they will give you the tool, but OTOH, if you already have the batteries you can buy naked tools.
The drill kit Ray mentioned looks interesting. With Dick's permission I will mention I saw it on YouTube.
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#6Pick one style is more important
I have a set of the Boush 10.8V later turned 12V screw driver impact driver drill and reciprocating saw. I really like them so I kept them for around the house and small stuff.
I also have a complete collection of DeWalt 12V, 20V and 60V tools. They get used more then the smaller Boush.
I have used the Ridged and Milwaukee tools over the years. To me you can't go wrong unless you buy multiple brands. When you pick what ever brand stay with it. It makes keeping batteries charged easier by only needing one style of battery and charger.
On my DeWalt I can charge all my batteries on the same charger so I only need to carry one maybe two to a job to keep them charged.
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#7Re: New Cordless Drill?
The lifetime warranty on my Ridgid stuff covers tools and batteries.
Plus....I really do like the tools.
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#8
Re: New Cordless Drill?
Mark,
I agree with Mike. Selecting a tool is half about the battery system. For what it is worth, I have been happy with my Dewalts. I have 20V drill/driver and impact wrench, 12V drill/driver and impact wrench, and a 20V multitool.
Of the drills, I almost always pick up the 12V before the 20V. Much lighter and does 95% of everything I need.
Re: New Cordless Drill?
#9Half Conflicted
I can replace the batteries again under the warranty, but the drill's gears have suffered several falls from more than 10' and are not nearly as smooth as they were w-b-t. New batteries - free vs. new drill combo set at $200 with the same warranty.
Thanks for the responses.