It has been ten years since I got a cordless drill. Boy have things changed 12v 18v brushless etc. Some drills come with a 1/4 hex driver. Should I spend a little more and get the 1/4 hex driver? It seems that it drives screws better than the drill. What else is it good at?
1/4 hex driver --- What Do You Use It For?
- Thread starter redmed
- Start date
Too much to list. Buy it.
Simply having two tools is a huge help in an of itself. The ability to put down one tool (drill with drill bit) and pick up the other (impact driver with Philips bit) and not have to constantly swap bits back and forth in the chuck is a huge advantage/time saver.
Simply having two tools is a huge help in an of itself. The ability to put down one tool (drill with drill bit) and pick up the other (impact driver with Philips bit) and not have to constantly swap bits back and forth in the chuck is a huge advantage/time saver.
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tdkkart
Well-known member
I bought one with my last drill, I've used it more than the drill. Does a glorious job of running all those phillips head wood screws we use for everything these days.
Get a set of square drive socket adapters for it and it makes a reasonable impact wrench, or at least a zip gun. Next time I find a decent sale I'm gonna buy one to take to work, for those 1/4" SHCS that I run into on every machine I work on, plus other light duty impact driver jobs.
Get a set of square drive socket adapters for it and it makes a reasonable impact wrench, or at least a zip gun. Next time I find a decent sale I'm gonna buy one to take to work, for those 1/4" SHCS that I run into on every machine I work on, plus other light duty impact driver jobs.
GCncsuHD
Well-known member
If you are referring to a 1/4" hex impact driver, definitely go for it.
I held off for quite a while, but finally gave in to buying a 12v 1/4" impact this spring, it blows my old 18v drill away when it comes to driving screws, bolts etc. Much more compact, light weight, and you can kiss stripped screw heads goodbye, the impact action is much more resistant to rounding them out than the drill was. Throw in some 1/4" hex to socket adapters and it is even more versatile. I used it last weekend to disassemble a swingset/playhouse that was a handme down from a family member for our little girl. It made quick work of backing off dozens of 3/8-1/2" lag and carriage bolts, and 2 5/8" carriage bolts. Only had to break 2 free with a wrench beforehand. Completely reassembled on the same battery as I used to disassemble it.
I have both a Bosch 12v and a Craftsman Nextec 12v impact driver. Bought the Craftsman on sale for $40 just to try it out, was so impressed I stepped up to the Bosch version. Easily I'd say they are in my top 5 favorite/most used tools in the shop.
I held off for quite a while, but finally gave in to buying a 12v 1/4" impact this spring, it blows my old 18v drill away when it comes to driving screws, bolts etc. Much more compact, light weight, and you can kiss stripped screw heads goodbye, the impact action is much more resistant to rounding them out than the drill was. Throw in some 1/4" hex to socket adapters and it is even more versatile. I used it last weekend to disassemble a swingset/playhouse that was a handme down from a family member for our little girl. It made quick work of backing off dozens of 3/8-1/2" lag and carriage bolts, and 2 5/8" carriage bolts. Only had to break 2 free with a wrench beforehand. Completely reassembled on the same battery as I used to disassemble it.
I have both a Bosch 12v and a Craftsman Nextec 12v impact driver. Bought the Craftsman on sale for $40 just to try it out, was so impressed I stepped up to the Bosch version. Easily I'd say they are in my top 5 favorite/most used tools in the shop.
Ign
Well-known member
Wood screws, lags, self-drilling sheetmetal screws, light assembly with small-ish fasteners eg under dashes, doors, some engine bay work.
I'm strictly a metal and mechanical guy (no carpentry) but still find lots of uses for my 1/4" hex impact drivers (of which I now have 4 LOL).
I'm strictly a metal and mechanical guy (no carpentry) but still find lots of uses for my 1/4" hex impact drivers (of which I now have 4 LOL).
Ray-CA
Well-known member
I bought this set about a year ago: http://makitatools.com/en-us/Modules/Tools/ToolDetails.aspx?Name=CT200RW and I've used the snot out of it. Built 240-ft of wood fence, lots of deck work (including driving Tap-cons.) Best $200 spent on a tool. Combine it with a set of these: http://www.harborfreight.com/hex-drill-socket-driver-set-3-pc-68513.html (or similar) and there isn't much else you need for fastening/unfastening.
I'd buy at least an 18-volt system and what I like about the Makita is the very fast recharge time. A used battery is fully charged well before the second one is discharged.
Ray
I'd buy at least an 18-volt system and what I like about the Makita is the very fast recharge time. A used battery is fully charged well before the second one is discharged.
Ray
Voi
Well-known member
These types of threads were very common 10 to 15 years ago or whenever it was that impact drivers became more and more common. Many people asking back then whether to just get the drill or pay a bit more and get the impact/drill kit.
The answer now is the same as it was back then. Get the kit. Impact drivers are great for driving just about any screw and work great with sockets and adapters. I even have a 1/4" hex chuck for mine and use it as a second drill.
If I had to choose one I'd get just the impact, even thought I have three drills and only one impact at the moment.
kylefitz
Well-known member
I use them with the socket adapters for top end disassembly.
chipper
Well-known member
Everything!!
fivespdcat
Well-known member
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I don't think he's talking about impact drivers. He is probably talking about these:
I haven't honestly found a point to them either. I guess if I was running a bunch of stuff down repeatedly it would come in handy, but a regular drill chuck is just so much more versatile...
I haven't honestly found a point to them either. I guess if I was running a bunch of stuff down repeatedly it would come in handy, but a regular drill chuck is just so much more versatile...
One point the bits do not fall out.
It is easier to change bits from drill to counter sink to screwdriver, less motion when you are on top of a ladder.
They are shorter than the drill type so it gives you a little more accessibility and they have drill chucks with 1/4 inch hex if you have a bit that does not come with a 1/4 hex on it.
It is easier to change bits from drill to counter sink to screwdriver, less motion when you are on top of a ladder.
They are shorter than the drill type so it gives you a little more accessibility and they have drill chucks with 1/4 inch hex if you have a bit that does not come with a 1/4 hex on it.
1/4" Impact driver, yes, get it. 1/4" Hex screwdriver, skip it and upgrade to the impact. IF you can afford it, then sure, get all three. EVERYTHING that the 1/4" screwdriver can do you can also do with the drill. All the screwdriver gives you is a shorter nose and easier bit change. The drill and screwdriver combos are more convenient than flipping the bit around or otherwise changing bits, 'tis up to you to decide how much that convenience gets is worth to you.
IUEC Medic
Well-known member
I use an impact driver almost every single day. I use the regular drill maybe once for every 10 times I pick up the impact. Work provides dewalt 18v stuff but I've been reaching for the Milwaukee 12v recently. At work i use an older style single speed brushed motor m12, at home I've got 12v and 18v fuel models. We work on elevators and escalators, lots of machine screws and lots of nuts and bolts.
The 12v impact fits into tight places, holds a very impressive charge and has plenty of power for most tasks. It also has the advantage of almost never binding and twisting your wrist. The hex chuck is way faster than a regular chuck.
That being said, an impact does not replace a drill for putting a bunch of 3/8ths holes in 3/8ths steel or turning a holesaw or unibit. They do make several drills with an impact-driver function built in, but going with just the drill driver eliminates the convenience of the 1/4" chuck.
I would recommend going with an 18v kit that has both an impact driver and a drill motor, but if I had to choose just one, it would be the impact.
The 12v impact fits into tight places, holds a very impressive charge and has plenty of power for most tasks. It also has the advantage of almost never binding and twisting your wrist. The hex chuck is way faster than a regular chuck.
That being said, an impact does not replace a drill for putting a bunch of 3/8ths holes in 3/8ths steel or turning a holesaw or unibit. They do make several drills with an impact-driver function built in, but going with just the drill driver eliminates the convenience of the 1/4" chuck.
I would recommend going with an 18v kit that has both an impact driver and a drill motor, but if I had to choose just one, it would be the impact.
shampoop
Well-known member
If it's just a "cordless screwdriver" as in a quick change 1/4" hex chuck but with no impacting action, anymore those have pretty limited application. In my industry all power tools have to be supplied by the contractor other than strictly "cordless screwdrivers" which you would only buy for convenience and to save your body from repetitive stress/injuries, like saving your wrist from turning lots of small fasteners.
This is a good example of a "cordless screwdriver" http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004DSAWSU/?tag=atomicindus08-20
If you need anything more than that just get yourself a 12V or 18V impact driver.
This is a good example of a "cordless screwdriver" http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004DSAWSU/?tag=atomicindus08-20
If you need anything more than that just get yourself a 12V or 18V impact driver.
thebeekeeper1
Well-known member
I only have experience with the Milwaukee 18V (non-FUEL), but it is GREAT. The combo with both the drill, two batts, universal charger, and crappy "contractor's bag" to keep it in is $186 shipped on Ebay. Hard to beat that. 
The nice plastic case was available a year ago from a company for $17.88 shipped. Hard to beat that too. Dunno if it's still available, as I had the impression it was a company that bought a bunch of combo sets and didn't want the cases, so they sold them off.
The nice plastic case was available a year ago from a company for $17.88 shipped. Hard to beat that too. Dunno if it's still available, as I had the impression it was a company that bought a bunch of combo sets and didn't want the cases, so they sold them off.
kctyphoon
Banned
Dewalt makes a 12v max 1/4" hex screwdriver.. It's nice for the adjustable clutch, and convience if you using multiple tools.. I have most of the more used 12v max line. I just got it for projects around the house, and wanted to upgrade to lithium packs.. Also tired of using big 18v tool to hang shelves and little things like that.. It's not "needed" but the screwdriver was only like $50 for the bare tool on ebay.
Jawn
Well-known member
This.
I never realized how awesome they were til I had one. The GJ brethren here convinced me to give it a shot and boy were y'all right.
I (conditionally) disagree with that. The modern 12V stuff sure comes in handy (small size) and has plenty of power for something of that size. Granted, you'll have more power with the big stuff. Guess it depends on what you want to do with it. I have the 12v Makita impact driver and it's great as long as you're not trying to change tires with it.
nicksnothereman
Well-known member
Worthless for automotive; going in might be okay (finish by hand) but probably won't come off unless it's got decent torque (assuming you're using it on security fasteners). Wood working? Good if it's got torque.
I wouldn't waste my time with anything under 18v (or true electric). I have cheap **** though so that might just be me.
ttpete
Well-known member
I have a 12V Milwaukee hex driver that I use for motorcycle work. It's all I need for bodywork screws and the numerous allens used on side covers and bracketry. I mostly use ball end allen driver bits. It's light and compact and doesn't have a big clunky battery hanging out the bottom.
I suggest 18v Milwaukee fuel brushless impact and drill. I have the same version in Makita, got it before Milwaukee made their's and I love it. I use it for everything residential construction and automotive mostly. Adapters allow me to use impact sockets, which are great.
Definitely get three stage torque control. This allows use in plastic and light wood without blowing stuff apart. I have one with it and one without it, and there is a difference.
There are deals with a free battery or tool with purchase. I would hold out for one of those deals. The batteries are about $100 separately.
Once you get one, you will always want to use it.
Definitely get three stage torque control. This allows use in plastic and light wood without blowing stuff apart. I have one with it and one without it, and there is a difference.
There are deals with a free battery or tool with purchase. I would hold out for one of those deals. The batteries are about $100 separately.
Once you get one, you will always want to use it.
NicksRodz
Well-known member
I looked at the M18 and I like the reviews and info. My question, Is there a 1/4 hex driver that is cheaper and still decent for the DIY and not used daily?
slow
Well-known member
I have the drill/driver 20 volt Li-ion from Dewalt, and they are great.
I bought it to assemble a swingset for the kids but I find that I use it on everything from removing wall plate covers to engine dis assembly.
I bought it to assemble a swingset for the kids but I find that I use it on everything from removing wall plate covers to engine dis assembly.
offroadsteve
Well-known member
I agree with Jawn regarding the 12V vs 18V tool debate. For even an advanced homeowner, the 12V tools are enough, and you just can't beat the light weight and small size. They go everywhere and can fit in a (relativly large) pocket.
I have a M12 Milwalkee impact and 3/8" chuck drill and they are my go-to tools for nearly every task. Basic assembly jobs, small drilled holes, even 3" deck screws. My wife prefers the impact for driving screws when I get her to help with projects.
The only time I get my 18V DeWalt now is drilling big holes (over 1/2"), and then I usually go for the Bosch hammer drill with a cord.
I have a M12 Milwalkee impact and 3/8" chuck drill and they are my go-to tools for nearly every task. Basic assembly jobs, small drilled holes, even 3" deck screws. My wife prefers the impact for driving screws when I get her to help with projects.
The only time I get my 18V DeWalt now is drilling big holes (over 1/2"), and then I usually go for the Bosch hammer drill with a cord.
I got a M12 impact driver that I have been testing how it drives screws. Many seem to be using these to drive screws but since it does not have a clutch I'm having trouble driving screws. I have used a screwdriving bit holder
https://www.ryobitools.com/power-tools/products/details/618
for years with my drill. With the M12 impact driver I'm only driving the screw part way or burying the screw into the wood. With no clutch I'm lost. Any tricks I'm missing?
https://www.ryobitools.com/power-tools/products/details/618
for years with my drill. With the M12 impact driver I'm only driving the screw part way or burying the screw into the wood. With no clutch I'm lost. Any tricks I'm missing?
orca8589
Well-known member
I had a 12-volt cordless drill for several years, and it disappeared one day a while back. To replace it, I got a Porter-Cable cordless hammer drill on clearance: drill, charger & 2 batteries, normally $130., got it for $27. (I wanted something smaller, but I couldn't pass up the clearance deal.) It handles everything I need, but it's heavy and the constant changing of bits during a big project is an aggravation. I'm researching a smaller cordless 1/4" impact drill (no more than 12-volt power is all I need) so I can get it for Christmas.
This is the first time in fifteen years I'm actually going to ask for something under the tree.
~Chris
This is the first time in fifteen years I'm actually going to ask for something under the tree.
~Chris
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johnnybentwrench
Well-known member
I just bought the Makita brushless drill and impact set. I use both in construction. Impacts zip screws right in
d.mcfarland
Well-known member
The Ridgid ones are very nice and powerful. Plus lifetime battery.
johndeereman
Well-known member
I ran ridgid 5 peice set's for 10 year's used in commercial construction (40-60 hour's a week) usually got around 3 years out of them. So recently we have switched all to Milwaukee some fuel some not they all have been great so far just the variety of different tool's is awsome. On that note the 18v 1/4'' hex drive is my GO TO
dalehsc
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I used Dewalt 12v cordless drill for many years & loved it, got a 18v drill later & switched back & forth using the same charger. I didn't think I would use the impact driver when I saw them advertised as a set with the drill. Went to work at a dealership & a couple of the techs there had them, & I saw them in action. The first decent deal that came up, (20v Lith-ion) drill & impact driver I purchased. The impact is my favorite tool for dash work,hose clamps,air cleaner assy's,mud flap instal's, the list is endless! Even if you do any DIY work,you will use it!