Best Mixer for Thinset/Mortar/SLC?

[SMLWinds]

I have been doing little tile projects mixing small amounts of thinset with my regular Dewalt corded drill. It does the job, but can struggle a slight bit at times and it is sometimes hard to control speed. I have some larger projects coming where I will need to mix large amounts of self leveling compound and thinset. I don't think it is practical to use the small drill so it is time for an upgraded mixer.

What are the best mixers out there? Not be be arrogant, but money is really not an issue and I love buying the absolute best tools that will do the job the best and last for years to come. So, I'm really not interested in the best bargain, what "can" do the job, or the best mixer "for the money." In general, I am a Festool, SawStop, Snap On, Makita kind of guy.

Lastly, are these mixers one dimensional (meaning their only usefulness is mixing things?) or do they have other uses? Just wondering. Thanks in advance for the assistance!

 

[theoldwizard1]

Get yourself a shallow tub, like a wash pan and do it like the pros ... be hand with your trowel !

You are better off with small batches anyway.

 

[SMLWinds]

Are you saying just mix it in a shallow trough so it doesn't get too deep? I probably still need to mix larger batches for the self leveling compound.

 

[signcrafter]

I use an old dewalt corded drill. You need a drill with decent power and low RPMs. This looks similar to the one I have used for 15 years no but obviously mine is a different model, http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007W1K9G/?tag=atomicindus08-20. Here is a bunch to choose from, http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007W1K9G/?tag=atomicindus08-20.

You can use it as a drill also for things like hole saws and metal bits. It's just a powerful low RPM drill.

 

[Givl Reggin]

Triple-gear-reduction is what you need, like this.....

Milwaukee 1/2 in. D-Handle Drill 0-600 RPM
http://www1.milwaukeetool.com/tools/drills/d-handle-drills/1-2-inch-d-handle-drill-0-600-rpm/1001-1

 

[Monte]

Collomix
www.Collomix.us

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[Monte]

Flex
www.flexnorthamerica.com

 

[404]

I use this drill with the pipe side handle. Hole Hawg. Just about strong enough.

This also works well to turn motors over to prime the oil system. Socket on an extension applied to the crankshaft pulley bolt.

If you have not already done so, read the mixing directions on the bag and especially follow the mixing time and the resting time, do not cut it short. I ended up using a kitchen timer.

The creamy quality of the product really improves when mixed and rested and mixed long enough as per instructions.

 

[Monte]

Eibenstock
www.Eibenstock.com
(Distributed by CSUnitec )

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[CaseRobert]

I have used a Performax 5/8 spade handle drill from Menard's to mix self leveling compound and concrete in 5 gallon buckets. I can also be used to bore holes in joists to run plumbing and electrical wire. The reason i went with it is the cost, this is something that i will rarely use and had trouble spending $100 or more. I have had good luck with Performax tools so far.

 

[SMLWinds]

Thanks for the responses. Lots of great suggestions and information!

While I am certain there are some benefits to the stand up mixers, I tend to lean towards a powerful 1/2" drill for my purposes (unless someone convinces me that isn't a good idea). I am mainly just thinking about versatility for the future. After leveling and tiling 2 rooms, I don't have any tile projects in the foreseeable future. I am certain there may be one or two down the road, but if I can do the job with a drill, I probably have a lot more things I can use that for in the future.

So, my questions are this:
1) Is a dedicated mixer like the ones above critical and why?
2) While I tend to like Milwaukee tools better than Dewalt, if you compare the 1/2" drills suggested above it looks like the Dewalt is a 10amp drill while the Milwaukee is a 7amp. Am I correct in saying that the Dewalt is probably a little more powerful drill?

Thanks again for the help!

 

[SMLWinds]

And, if I do go with a powerful 1/2" drill, is the Dewalt mentioned above (the DW130V 9amp 1/2" drill) the top of the line or is there a better drill with all the same features and power (Makita? Bosch? Milwaukee?) Thanks!

 

[hemdale]

Hi everyone,

I'm too in the market for a mixer.
So far, I've been considering the Collomix Xo1 which is quite pricey and much heavier (compared to Eibenstock).

Do you guys have any experience / feedback with Eibenstock EHR 14.1 or the EHR 15.1 ?
My only concern is the asymetrical height handles on the EHR 15.1. and the asymetrical stance / position on the EHR 14.1

http://www.eibenstock.com/upload/pdf/downloads/produkte/EHR-14-1-SK-Set_engl.pdf

Collomix: http://www.collomix.de/en/hand-held-mixer-xo1.html

Imho, the "formula 1 steering wheel" design makes more sense, as long as the motor and overall built quality match the design.

Any thoughts ? Many thanks

 

[FMC1959]

Hi everyone,

I'm too in the market for a mixer.
So far, I've been considering the Collomix Xo1 which is quite pricey and much heavier (compared to Eibenstock).

Do you guys have any experience / feedback with Eibenstock EHR 14.1 or the EHR 15.1 ?
My only concern is the asymetrical height handles on the EHR 15.1. and the asymetrical stance / position on the EHR 14.1

http://www.eibenstock.com/upload/pdf/downloads/produkte/EHR-14-1-SK-Set_engl.pdf

Collomix: http://www.collomix.de/en/hand-held-mixer-xo1.html

Imho, the "formula 1 steering wheel" design makes more sense, as long as the motor and overall built quality match the design.

Any thoughts ? Many thanks

If you like Makita, this is a good mixer/drill, DS4011
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Makita-8-5-Amp-1-2-in-Spade-Handle-Drill-DS4011/202718424

I have seen a couple of places in Canada where Makita sells it as the DS4011X bundle. It includes a pail and 28" mixing bit. Makita has confidence this model will not burn the motor mixing mortar, and also makes a great 1/2" drill.
http://www.renodepot.com/en/drill-mixer-and-bowl-trio-11975278

If you can't find the bundle or don't need the mixer attachment, just look around for the DS4011. I put a link to HD just to show the model, you might find better deals elsewhere.