Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I'm looking for one around 14-18 volts. There a lot of models to choose from, just curious about which model others like? I would kind of like to spend no more than $100

Becareful looking at just the voltage ratings. How many amps?

If you take some of these things apart there is a big difference in the construction and wiring. I don't have the model number of the one we use, but it is a deWalt 18V with the better gears and no hammer. It was about $279 with three batteries. It has proven pretty tough.

Rob,

The Old house article I referred to discussed just that in regard to amps, voltage, etc. and run time.  In short, lower voltages with higher amp ratings may provide more power than one with a higher voltage.

On another note, I west to Pep Boys yesterday to see if they had any "regular" gas cans.  They too only sold ones with autoshutoff / no spill ends.   I think I we will need to fire up a lathe if we want a regular spout.

Walt

Many don't have amp rating on the net, However, if you look at torque and see that the Hilti at 672 in lbs of torque compared to the closest at 500 roughly, that tells a huge tale. It's not just torque where it shines, but also high speed if needed at almost 2000 RPM's.

Walt, as I said early, it's too expensive to warrant homeowner use. With the NiMH 3.0 batteries be prepared to spend well over $500.00. But, the drill itself will last forever.

Marshall,

672 in lbs. is a lot.  I know when I was researching my first cordless 420 was considered high and ample.  Santa pretty much impulse bought for my DeWalt, although he has a lot more experience than years back and knows the general rules. 

I figured the price would be around there.  We had a Metabo division close by and their stuff is high too.

Walt 

Thanks everyone for all the input!! All these posts confirms what I suspected, choosing a cordless drill is not a simple feat. I also read the article in TOH Magazine as well as Consumer Reports articles. I was disappointed by the TOH article. Not a lot of useful info, by far this forum is the BEST place to go when researching a purchase!!

Dewalt 18v, but it does cost more than a 100.00. I have two batteries that charge very quickly. Great drill, never want to be without it. Spoke with some pro dry wall installers and they said they use the 18v over the 24 due to the extra weight of the 24. I'd imagine using it all day would fatigue almost anyone.

I have used the De-Walt 18v 4pc. kit for five years. It was an fairly good drill, somewhat clunky and heavy for the power it had, but good for the price. My Bocsh 14.4v had the same power as the De-walt 18v.  I perfer the Bosch 18v the most., but all overpriced for your search that you are doing for this thread.  Stay away from Millwaukee cordless tools=they are junk.  Millwaukee corded tools are great, but whoever makes their cordless stuff for them needs an enema.      

                                                                        18 degrees

I'll check in for Makita,  I got lucky and got a new M-force 12 volt at agent Orange for $100.  (Grand Opening special)

I bought an extra for my Dad.  At that time there was a $20 rebate on them, bringing my net to $80!

I like the 12V, due to the weight factor and its' slighty smaller size allows me to get in tighter spaces.  The NiMH batteries are much better than the Nicads on my old Makita.
I also like the balance.  It has enough torque for what I need, 310 in lbs.  I've used it to build a deck  etc.  Will work as fast as I can and the batts. charge very quikly.

Smitty...

You're right... many many choices... tooooo many...
Think about and describe your needs/wants...

What tasks will you use it for... and which task is most important ? Use how often ?

What are your criteria for selection...?
#1 seems price... ~$100
#2 ?
#3 ?

Some are better for heavy duty jobs...
some for tight places...
some for scews and slip clutch effectiveness... versus drilling... which is more important ?
some for weight...
some for battery use among other cordless tools...
keyless chuck ?
variable speed ?
2 speed ranges ?
reversible ?
battery type ?
recharge time ?
run time important ?
1 or 2 batteries ?
etc...


Dave...

EMMO, MY SON!!!

I take back whatever I said when I kicked you out of the house.  Please bring the new drill over right away, I have a glass of Ice Tea waiting for you along with a sandwich...

My Makita also had the NiMH batteries.  They were a relatively new product at the time when I got the drill but lasted quite a long time.

Walt