Bosch or Dewalt impact driver?

[Greatbear]

then they would use A123 batteries in every tool

DeWalt has pulled a fast one and replaced the A123 26650 (large) 2.6AH cells in the 36V lineup with paired Sony 18650 (small, like in 12VMax, 18V and 20VMax) 1.3AH cells in the battery packs. The model numbers are the same, as are the ratings. Not sure how much this changes the performance of the tools, but the ones most upset have been the RC communities that have been buying up the 36V packs to harvest the A123 cells. Despite buying the entire pack, it seems it was cheaper than buying the cells alone through "normal" channels. I'm sure DeWalt was not happy with their stock being depleted not being used on their own products.

 

[Monte]

I think they use Sanyo now too. In the Dewalt owners group forum are more infos.... It seems the A123 batteries were too expensive...

 

[Stuey]

This is a good reason to go with Dewalt this weekend - 20V hammer drill & impact driver deal. Looks like someone at Home Depot goofed and double-discounted the combo kit.

I actually LOVE the 20V impact. It's shorter than the 12V version and only a little fatter and heavier.

 

[Greatbear]

I think they use Sanyo now too. In the Dewalt owners group forum are more infos.... It seems the A123 batteries were too expensive...

Yeah, the DOG forums have been abuzz with battery talk. It's no suprise changes are being made, the technology and reliability changes overnight these days.

 

[BD1]

You're a little late, but I'm sure some people benefited from the reminder.

http://toolguyd.com/2011/11/dewalt-coupon-save-25-off-100-tools-and-accessories/

$25 Off a $100 DEWALT Order
Through December 25, 2011, spend $100 or more on select DEWALT tools and accessories shipped and sold by Amazon.com and get $25 off at checkout. Learn more

hi,this dewalt deal is still good on select items. Plus can't beat free shipping if sold and filled by amazon plus no tax

 

[Stuey]

$25 Off a $100 DEWALT Order
Through December 25, 2011, spend $100 or more on select DEWALT tools and accessories shipped and sold by Amazon.com and get $25 off at checkout. Learn more

hi,this dewalt deal is still good on select items. Plus can't beat free shipping if sold and filled by amazon plus no tax

Thus far, the only things I've found it to not work on are Dewalt safety goggles and the new ToughSystem cases.

 

[Skin]

i've got some miles on my PS21-2A, just got my DeWalt kit. Initial impressions are that the DeWalt is of good quality but is overall a noticeably heavier tool [not a good thing]. Cant comment on battery life or power yet but i do like the bit holder a lot better than the Bosch and the tool lights are better.

The one thing that Bosch has in spades over the 12V Max is the compactness. The battery in handle is much better than the idiotic hanging off the end design. I expect that and deal with it on larger tools but do not think it should be there on the 12V. If you want something for pro use i'd go Bosch simply for its smaller size and light weight. Home use is a wash and would purchase which ever is cheapest; which is why i purchased the DeWalt kit.

 

[Stuey]

I'm actually quite fond of the "hanging off the end design" since it means a thinner easier-to -hold handle and much better balance. When using the tools w/ arm outreached or overhead, the Bosch design tends to be a bit top-heavy. Dewalt is better balanced and more comfortable. imho

 

[Skin]

The Bosch tools are actually better balanced since you hold most of the weight rather than it hanging off one end or the other. The DeWalt tools are "top" heavy. Check for yourself, the balance point is above the trigger instead of at the middle of the handle. This is the first thing i noticed when i picked it up compared to the Bosch.

I have rather slim small hands and even i find the DeWalt handle a bit on the slim side.

All personal preference of course.