Recommend me a good Cordless Screwdriver

[Bubba Fett]

Alright y'all. I need some recommendations!

I need a cordless driver that can accept any power bit, and maybe insert bits with or without a bit holder (though that isn't critical).
Needs to be pretty small and lightweight so I can use it in confined areas. Multiple people will be using it, so one that can be used in either hand would be best.

It will be used mostly for installing servers, networking equipment, audio/visual equipment, cable management, assembling utility carts, mounting things like TVs, Projectors, Security Cameras, Access Points, Speakers, etc. Could be used to assemble furniture, workbenches, or whatever, so variable torque and speed settings would be a plus.

I already have a hammer drill, so it won't really be needed for making holes.

Not sure if I want one that can go from strait-handled to pistol handle, or if I should go with a small pistol-grip, or even an impact driver. I do want one that allows batteries to be swapped, comes with 2 batteries, and a charger.

I don't really have a brand preference (we have Red, Blue, Teal, and Yellow/Black), but it needs to be reliable.

It has to come from Grainger, Global Supply, or other industrial suppliers, not the typical retail chains. Price needs to be decent, and probably no more than $500 or so for everything. (Although that isn't critical.)

I don't use cordless drivers much, because I prefer manual drivers, but I often deal with long machine screws, which can get tiring.

What do you use/recommend?

 

[loganb]

For what you're describing, my go to for that type of work is this:

M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver | Milwaukee Tool

MILWAUKEE® M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver features 4 dedicated solutions, delivering unrivaled access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque

www.milwaukeetool.com

Very compact and easy to maneuver, versatile, M12 battery platform....hard to go wrong

 

[mike93lx]

For what you're describing, my go to for that type of work is this:

M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver | Milwaukee Tool

MILWAUKEE® M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver features 4 dedicated solutions, delivering unrivaled access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque

www.milwaukeetool.com

Very compact and easy to maneuver, versatile, M12 battery platform....hard to go wrong

Beat me to it. Feels like a great fit for the application.

Only problem is keeping it organized. I highly recommend getting a small packout case and inserts designed by Jonah Pope. No affiliation, just a really happy customer

Custom packout insert for m12 installation driver

I bought the m12 installation driver a little while ago and realized quickly that it justified good organization due to all the parts, so I went looking for packout inserts. Came across Jonah Pope's designs for 3d printed inserts and bought the files...

www.garagejournal.com

 

[Renegade1LI]

I have the dewalt, takes a little getting used to but works great for light duty stuff.

Amazon.com

 

[sparky 1971]

This is one of my most used tools. Small, lightweight, variable speed from slow to really fast (2450rpm), can be used with either hand, and doesn't have enough power to mangle screws but will run a drywall screw into a 2X4 given enough time, but that's not what it's made for.

And, it's available from Grainger

Whoops, we couldn't find that.

I have the Milwaukee M4 and have had other brands, They are all slow (400 rpm tops) and have no power at all.

 

[RTM]

I like this for an extension of a manual screwdriver. Not tons of torque, so it gets used for stuff I don’t want to foul up. Mine is a -1

2.4-Volt Two-Speed Screwdriver

The 2.4-Volt Two-Speed Screwdriver from Milwaukee Tool gives installers, electricians, line workers and mechanics superior control over torque and speed.

www.milwaukeetool.com

Great for homeowner grade stuff, not sure about server grade 2” screws.

 

[Bubba Fett]

What do y'all think of the Milwaukee 2401-22?

 

[mike93lx]

What do y'all think of the Milwaukee 2401-22?

I'm sure it works fine.

The installation driver has 4 different chucks, making it super versatile. I imagine the offset one could come in handy, plus the regular drill chuck would allow using standard drill bits

 

[sparky 1971]

What do y'all think of the Milwaukee 2401-22?

I have one. It's way too slow so I leave it in the house and let the wife use it.

Milwaukee makes/made another version with two speeds that is a little better, but not a game changer. I had one of those, but eight years ago my service truck was broken into and it was stolen. It was one of the few tools I didn't feel that was necessary to replace since I rarely used it. It's really nothing more than a drill with a quick lock in place of a chuck.

 

[dscheidt]

What do y'all think of the Milwaukee 2401-22?

I have one, which I bought several years ago on sale on a lark. I expected it would end up unused, or given to the kid, but I use it a lot.

I keep it attached the leg of my workbench, and use it all the time to take stuff apart and put it back together. it's great for electrical devices and flat pack assembly. It's got plenty of power, but as @sparky 1971 says, it's slow. 600 rpm max, so a 2" 32 tpi screw takes 10 seconds or so. It's still faster than a manual screwdriver, but if I were a professional trimming out a house, I wouldn't use it because of the speed. The installation driver above is a much better choice for that.

 

[dnschmidt]

I've got them all but need more information to determine the right tool for the job. If you're working on delicate stuff the M4 is the way to go. For bigger stuff the 2401 works well and is what I use to take the under car covers off of my Toyota when I do an oil change. If speed is an issue a normal compact electric drill - I use the Milwaukee 3601 compact brushless drill is the way to go. The Makita impact driver referenced above is very nice for driving woodworking screws in a compact size. The Milwaukee installation tool, I think every manufacturer has a version of this now, is handy. More specific information is needed. Based on what you said I'd go with the Milwaukee compact drill. I bought mine for $99 for the complete kit during the Christmas season from Northern Tool.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Interesting. So the 2401-22 is pretty slow, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, since this will be used for delicate items.

I may have to get more than one model. A separate impact driver for heavier jobs might be ticket.

 

[Steve_P]

It seems like maybe you want two different tools? One that's a delicate screwdriver like the DeWalt above, and one that you can use to actually drive screws into wood? You should have both IMO.

Edit- I have the older version of the DeWalt gyroscopic screwdriver above, and then something like this.

https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DCF809B-Brushless-Cordless-Compact/dp/B07QJ96V1S/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[mike93lx]

I may have to get more than one model. A separate impact driver for heavier jobs might be ticket.

What kind of stuff are you thinking of when you say heavier? The installation driver does fine with smaller screws, but I'd never use it to drive a lag or a bunch of decking/construction screws. It's also definitely the wrong thing to use for breaking loose stuck nuts and bolts.

 

[moab11]

I have a bunch of the m12 screwdrivers, and they are by far my most used tool, especially for screws and such.
I've used them for server racks, ikea furniture, removing some fence boards, etc. Easy to reign in the power, but can still do a fair bit if needed.

 

[FTWingRiders]

For what you're describing, my go to for that type of work is this:

M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver | Milwaukee Tool

MILWAUKEE® M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver features 4 dedicated solutions, delivering unrivaled access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque

www.milwaukeetool.com

Very compact and easy to maneuver, versatile, M12 battery platform....hard to go wrong

Well dang... here another tool I didn't know I needed and now must have!!
Thanks!

 

[GeoBruin]

I have the 2401-22 and the installation driver. In my case, they live in separate locations and serve separate purposes so it (kind of) makes sense, but in reality the the installation driver does everything the 2401-22 does, plus a whole lot more. The offset attachment is a godsend, the right angle attachment is also really nice to have sometimes, and the drill chuck is a nice little bonus. Note that the drill chuck can be used with the right angle attachment or the offset attachment as needed. The clutch has a ton of range from less than hand tight to driving screws, though it stops short of decking screws.

The only issue is the stupid reverse button is both a bad button and in a bad location. I'm only now starting to get used to and able to activate it without looking at it. But I'm sure it was a compromise to achieve the form factor.

 

[mike93lx]

The only issue is the stupid reverse button is both a bad button and in a bad location. I'm only now starting to get used to and able to activate it without looking at it. But I'm sure it was a compromise to achieve the form factor.

I dont like that I can't pick it up and know which direction it's going to spin. Seems like a really odd decision to depart from a convention used on pretty much every other drill/driver. Having to reposition or use a second hand to change directions is annoying, as well.

Other than that, it's great!

 

[WildBill]

We use a bunch of the ‎2101-22 4v drivers at work, they are pretty decent and surprisingly powerful. I use one multiple times a day taking apart and repairing electronic test stations. Seems like it only needs charged about every three months.

 

[308guru]

M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver | Milwaukee Tool

MILWAUKEE® M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver features 4 dedicated solutions, delivering unrivaled access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque

www.milwaukeetool.com

People really buy and use these things? I've always thought they are sooooo weird and gimmicky.

 

[308guru]

I've had one of these for a long time and use it a lot. It's great. If I had a complaint I'd say it's a little heavier than I'd like but that's nitpicking.

M12™ FUEL™ 1/4" Hex 2-speed Screwdriver

The M12™ FUEL™ 1/4" Hex 2-speed Screwdriver from Milwaukee Tool provides up to 10X longer motor life, 2X more power, and 4X more runtime.

www.milwaukeetool.com

 

[vwpieces]

Huge fan of electric screw divers that resemble an actual screwdriver... I have a couple.

Wiha Zu Haus (china) hard to find. Had mine for about n10years and use it a lot. Realized they were getting even harder to find, I scored a backup off Amazon,de a couple years ago



Also have a couple HOTO boungt as Amazon returns, under $20ea.
No complaints.


And the latest is this Vessel clone ought on amazon for $10.70 No complaints

I have wrenched on them all pretty good but I am sure some Ape will break them. The china Wiha has survived me for over 10 years.

Yeah, not industrial suppliers but I would take my $11 AMIR to work on my own dime. Even if they supplied the tools.

 

[Kscardsfan]

I have one. It's way too slow so I leave it in the house and let the wife use it.

Milwaukee makes/made another version with two speeds that is a little better, but not a game changer. I had one of those, but eight years ago my service truck was broken into and it was stolen. It was one of the few tools I didn't feel that was necessary to replace since I rarely used it. It's really nothing more than a drill with a quick lock in place of a chuck.

I found one of those on the road. I use it for stuff like chucking a brush up to clean the upholstery in the cars etc where I don’t want the impact etc.

 

[AEAdam]

I just bought this thing and I really like it so far.

I don't have many 12V tools and I was worried about power and longevity. I have the regular battery and the bigger battery for this (with the square box on the end) and both have performed really well. This isn't even brushless.

Thought the trigger was fwd and reverse like Snap On's version. It's just on or off. But I'm okay with it. I use this for tight ares where I could be using it upside down, and in weird body positions to boot. So maybe this trigger is better for that.

The reverse button isn't amazingly convenient, but I don't really go back and forth. 90% of the time, its on fwd.

The head is very small and the small bits stick out only a little. If you can't fit this, get out a Sawzall because you really screwed up!

With a pistol grip tool, you kinda get some force behind the driver head, which I think is good. With this thing, you'd need 2 hands to do that, because the trigger is pretty low. So maybe not a perfect solution. But depending on the work and what people get used to, this could be perfect adequate.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I was initially wanting one of the DeWalt Gyroscopic drivers, but Grainger said it's discontinued, which is strange. I've used one before and thought it was pretty neat. I wonder if DeWalt is about to release a new version, or if it will be re-branded as a Craftsman driver.

I do appreciate the suggestions and feedback.

 

[LS1-IROC]

The DeWalt Gyroscopic driver was a game changer for me. I have been using one for probably close to 10 years now at work. It gets used almost daily and is still kicking. The only complaint I have is that the LED light stopped working about 3 years ago. I hope they are not discontinuing it, I better buy a back-up unit if that's the case.

 

[mike93lx]

The DeWalt Gyroscopic driver was a game changer for me. I have been using one for probably close to 10 years now at work. It gets used almost daily and is still kicking. The only complaint I have is that the LED light stopped working about 3 years ago. I hope they are not discontinuing it, I better buy a back-up unit if that's the case.

I remember something on this came up a year or so ago. At the time, Dewalt had stated that the 8v battery has been discontinued, which I expect means the tools are dead as well

They do have a non-gyroscopic 4v screwdriver out

14 Pc. Cordless Screwdriver with FLEXDRIVE™ Control

Make quick work of assembly applications with the FLEXDRIVE™ 14 pc. Cordless Screwdriver Set. The screwdriver features a compact design that conveniently fits in your tool pouch, with FLEXDRIVE™ 360 degree collar for seamless slide-to-drive control. With 6-stage torque adjustment and a...

www.dewalt.com

 

[richfinn]

Alright y'all. I need some recommendations!

I need a cordless driver that can accept any power bit, and maybe insert bits with or without a bit holder (though that isn't critical).
Needs to be pretty small and lightweight so I can use it in confined areas. Multiple people will be using it, so one that can be used in either hand would be best.

It will be used mostly for installing servers, networking equipment, audio/visual equipment, cable management, assembling utility carts, mounting things like TVs, Projectors, Security Cameras, Access Points, Speakers, etc. Could be used to assemble furniture, workbenches, or whatever, so variable torque and speed settings would be a plus.

I already have a hammer drill, so it won't really be needed for making holes.

Not sure if I want one that can go from strait-handled to pistol handle, or if I should go with a small pistol-grip, or even an impact driver. I do want one that allows batteries to be swapped, comes with 2 batteries, and a charger.

I don't really have a brand preference (we have Red, Blue, Teal, and Yellow/Black), but it needs to be reliable.

It has to come from Grainger, Global Supply, or other industrial suppliers, not the typical retail chains. Price needs to be decent, and probably no more than $500 or so for everything. (Although that isn't critical.)

I don't use cordless drivers much, because I prefer manual drivers, but I often deal with long machine screws, which can get tiring.

What do you use/recommend?

I nearly went with an M12 version (I already have some Milwaukee M12 tools)

At the last minute I decided to buy a Bosch GSR 12V-35 HX as it's way more compact. I love it

PRO GSR 12V-35 HX Cordless Screwdriver | Bosch Professional

PRO GSR 12V-35 HX Cordless drills/drivers | Highly compact cordless screwdriver in the 12V class enables easy access to tight and narrow spaces, Lockable 1/4" bit interface for easy bit exchange, With up to 1,750 rpm, the GSR 12V-35 HX is the fastest 2-gear cordless screwdriver in the 12V category

www.bosch-professional.com

 

[acer66]

M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver | Milwaukee Tool

MILWAUKEE® M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver features 4 dedicated solutions, delivering unrivaled access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque

www.milwaukeetool.com

People really buy and use these things? I've always thought they are sooooo weird and gimmicky.

I have the Bosch and somewhere an old Festool version of that and I really like it.

I mainly use it without the chuck for smaller size and weight.

But the right angle and offset are used on a somewhat regular bases too.

 

[Odd-job]

One powered screwdriver to rule them all doesn't quite exist. For the above range would get a Milwaukee 2406-20 two speed pistol grip and maybe this Vessel screwdriver for the smaller electronic stuff:

https://www.zoro.com/vessel-vessel-vst-220usbs1u-ball-grip-highspeed-cordless-screwdriver-vst-220usbs1u/i/G404152623/

I also use M12 ratchets as glorified screwdrivers with a bit driver adapter way more than I would like to admit for getting at screws in tight spots.

m12 hydraulic surge for higher speed disassembly stuff.

Hopefully 3 out of 4 above suggestions would be less than $500 at Grainger jacked up pricing.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I probably could go higher in price, but I also ordered a bunch of utility carts, a Little Giant ladder, and a bunch of other stuff, so I knew I was pressing my luck. LOL.

 

[Odd-job]

you have to look at tool budgeting like the government - deficit spending and debt!

 

[ipgenie]

I've got the Milwaukee above, the Dewalt gyroscopic and a few smaller ones. I have this one too and it might be the right fit for you :

Makita USA - Product Details -TD022DSE

7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit

www.makitatools.com

It's fairly powerful for the size yet does well on delicate things too. My kit came with two batteries and the charger. I've used it for a bunch of things from roofing screws to drywall screws and server rack assembly.

 

[Rinspeed]

I nearly went with an M12 version (I already have some Milwaukee M12 tools)

At the last minute I decided to buy a Bosch GSR 12V-35 HX as it's way more compact. I love it

PRO GSR 12V-35 HX Cordless Screwdriver | Bosch Professional

PRO GSR 12V-35 HX Cordless drills/drivers | Highly compact cordless screwdriver in the 12V class enables easy access to tight and narrow spaces, Lockable 1/4" bit interface for easy bit exchange, With up to 1,750 rpm, the GSR 12V-35 HX is the fastest 2-gear cordless screwdriver in the 12V category

www.bosch-professional.com

I'm a huge Milwaukee fan but the Bosch 12V is a winner, I've bought four of them for the guys at the shop and they love them. The Dewalt gyroscopic is a joke as far as I'm concerned.

 

[MiteyF]

I have the dewalt, takes a little getting used to but works great for light duty stuff.

Amazon.com

Boss at an old job had me pick out and order a new cordless screwdriver, and I bought that one (or perhaps an older version, it was a few years ago). I didn't know it was motion activated, and couldn't figure out why it only worked sometimes. After realizing how it worked, I had her return it immediately. I *hated* that thing.

Give me a trigger or a button, none of that gyro operated nonsense.

 

[Toolfool]

I have had my Bosch cordless screwdriver for over 20 years. Still works like new. Batteries still take a charge. I like the ability to use it as a straight screwdriver or at 90 degrees.

https://beavertools.com/ps11-102-bosch-12v-max-right-angle-drill-driver-kit-with-2-0-ah-battery.html?keyword=&utm_source=bing_ads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=485653448&creative=&placement=&target=&campaignid=485653448&adgroup=1232553603005079&feeditemid=&targetid=pla-2328834347912110&loc_interest_ms=&loc_physical_ms=&matchtype=e&network=o&device=c&devicemodel=&keyword=&marketing.link=bing-cpc-485653448_1232553603005079__o&msclkid=ea63f8a476311f304e359f14a4dac2ba&utm_term=2328834347912110&utm_content=Local%20Ad%201