Bosch vs Hitachi?

[Drock93]

I've got about $300 in Menard's gift cards and rebates, and decided it's time to use them. Just got my first house, so trying to build a good collection of tools. Menard's carries both Hitachi and Bosch, I picked these too figuring they were the nicest brands there. Here's the tools I would eventually be getting:

Drill/Impact Combo
Reciprocating Saw
Circular Saw
Jig Saw
Miter Saw
Random Orbit Sander
4.5" Grinder

I'm not contractor by any means, and only do jobs around the house, or handyman jobs for other people like laying laminate flooring and such. Tired of borrowing my dad's tools, figure it's time to build my collection. Obviously, since I have currency for Menards, I'd like to stick to there. So in your guys opinion, which manufacturer is better? Haven't done much research, but though I might start out with this kit:

http://www.menards.com/main/tools-h...t-driver-combo-kit-1-5ah/p-1804492-c-9066.htm

EDIT: I could also get a combo from Lowes, as I forgot I had a 10% off coupon and some giftcards for there. I wouldn't be limited to just Bosch or Hitachi then, I could get a Dewalt Combo. Been looking at these two:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044DEXPW/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005GT0IXO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Mike.ASC]

I have that same set but the 18 volt version . I am very happy with the quality and feel of them but the 1.5 ah batteries make them undepowered & have a short life between recharging . I bought the Hitachi because of the better warranty . I believe there are 3.0 ah batteries available . You can probably get the stronger batteries for the set your looking at also .

 

[Drock93]

Made an edit, forgot I had coupon and gift cards to Lowes. This makes Dewalt an option. I was really impressed by their 12V combo, felt very good and research shows its got pleanty of power for my needs. How is the rest of the Dewalt line? Price seems comparable to Bosch, and gets good reviews.

 

[rbgearz]

I've had good luck with the DeWalt corded tools. As far as cordless I've used Bosch and DeWalts at work. They're ok, but for personal use I prefer the Hitachi or Porter Cable.

 

[vartz04]

Hitachi 12 volt stuff rocks. I have the impact driver. Drove 3" Screwes for my ceiling joists into the real wood from 1950 that they used to build the rafters without any issue. Battery life is good too. Is their a reason you want all one brand? for the cordless stuff that makes sense other wise no. here is a link to the whole 12v hitachi line up http://www.hitachipowertools.com/index/main-navigation/tools.aspx?d=2,312. I plan to buy the drill/saw kit when funds allow.


My Hitachi miter saw was great too. Used it a lot when I started finishing the garage and it worked great. It is sitting in an evidence room collecting dust right now though cause it was stolen but I really can't wait to get it back.

For a recip saw I have a milwaukee 12 amp that I got for chirstmas. Haven't used it a ton but I really like it. Def heavy duty.

 

[frankush]

Spend a little more on your drill/driver combo. You'll probably use it the most. I've used the Bosch drills and they're fine. I know nothing about the Hitachi. Bosch makes one of the best jig saws you'll find and you can't go wrong with one of the better quality Skil circular saws that's also sold at Menards. The only sawzall I'll buy is the Milwaukee. Most of the angle grinders and sanders can be had fairly cheap and are usually throw aways once they break.

 

[Drock93]

Spend a little more on your drill/driver combo. You'll probably use it the most. I've used the Bosch drills and they're fine. I know nothing about the Hitachi. Bosch makes one of the best jig saws you'll find and you can't go wrong with one of the better quality Skil circular saws that's also sold at Menards. The only sawzall I'll buy is the Milwaukee. Most of the angle grinders and sanders can be had fairly cheap and are usually throw aways once they break.

What would you suggest I get for a drill/driver combo then?

And actually, I don't mind getting different brands. Got 2 late gifts today, a black and decker jig saw and crafstman evolv circular saw (should be enough for my needs). For the rest of the tools I listed, what do you guys recomend brand wise that's affordable? Also, as far as hand tools go I've got a large collection of Craftsman, do you suggest I keep buying that or go kobalt or stanley?

Would this saw be fine for a DIYer?
http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-...p-00917175000P?prdNo=2&blockNo=2&blockType=G2

or should I pony up for this:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GIPG2C/?tag=atomicindus08-20

or

http://www.lowes.com/pd_203392-353-...rentURL=?Ns=p_product_avg_rating|1&facetInfo=

I like the Hitachi 12V because of the size and where the battery pack is located. Does the drill have good power? I also figure with the Hitachi being cheap, I can see how well it suits me and always get a bigger combo later down the road.

 

[Pumpman1968]

I had a Hitachi 18v 1/2" drive drill at work....toughest cordless I had ever used. I worked as Maint Mech at a County Landfill and it was in some pretty nasty places and it really took a pounding.

 

[metaldad]

For what it's worth, just purchased a 6 gal. Hitachi pancake air compressor. Used it for a few days, as an air supply for a pneumatic system. Was on line for 4 days. Cycled about every 20 minutes. Motor burnt out. Menard's did accept warranty exchange.
http://www.menards.com/main/p-1922091-c-12910.htm

 

[vartz04]

not sure on the drill the impact gun has 880 in/lbs of torque. For comparision the ryobi 18 volt impact driver has 800. Its a lot of power in that little package and the batteries last a while. Driving 1-3/4" Screws hanging up my ceiling panels id work out in the garage for about 2 hours before switching the batteries. id say 75-80% of that time the impact is running screws in (precut the panels the day before if they needed cuts)

I had a menards masterforce impact driver and drill kit (12 volt) price is good on those usually $89-109 on sale for the kit. I just don't like that style battery. I like to be able to set it down on the battery and have it stand up. Balance is way better on the hitachi.

Get the Milwaukee sawzall. I think mines the 12 amp one. Its about $120 at the big box stores. My dad has all Dewalt cordless tools miter saw and corded drills but he chose the milwaukee for himself and for me for christmas. I am on construction jobsites nearly every day and most of the time if they are demoing something with a saw its a red one.

 

[Drock93]

not sure on the drill the impact gun has 880 in/lbs of torque. For comparision the ryobi 18 volt impact driver has 800. Its a lot of power in that little package and the batteries last a while. Driving 1-3/4" Screws hanging up my ceiling panels id work out in the garage for about 2 hours before switching the batteries. id say 75-80% of that time the impact is running screws in (precut the panels the day before if they needed cuts)

I had a menards masterforce impact driver and drill kit (12 volt) price is good on those usually $89-109 on sale for the kit. I just don't like that style battery. I like to be able to set it down on the battery and have it stand up. Balance is way better on the hitachi.

Get the Milwaukee sawzall. I think mines the 12 amp one. Its about $120 at the big box stores. My dad has all Dewalt cordless tools miter saw and corded drills but he chose the milwaukee for himself and for me for christmas. I am on construction jobsites nearly every day and most of the time if they are demoing something with a saw its a red one.

Looking into it, might as well get the Milwaukee since it's still made in USA.

Did a little more research on the hitachi, I didn't know the chuck on the drill isn't single sleeve ratcheting, you have to use two hands. Is this a big deal?

Even though I like the size and price of it better, I'm tempted to get the Bosch 18v since it has a ratcheting chuck, and battery life gauge. The Hitachi 12V drill is only 1300 max RPM, whereas the Bosch 18V is 1700 RPM max.

The Bosch really seems like a beast for it's price/class. $199 for 2 batteries with fuel gauges, 1/2" Drill with 600in/lbs of torque, and an Impact with 1500in/lbs torque.

If I were to get a 12V I think at this point itd be the Dewalt. Not sure if that'd be enough or if I should get the Bosch

 

[Rhyno37]

I ended up with the Dewalt 12V Max combo, loving it so far! Plenty of power

 

[GSteg]

Drock, I have the same Bosch kit (and more ). They are just fantastic. All the power you need and they're quite compact. Not as light as the 12V stuff, but they're not heavy either, especially with the compact battery. I have some 12V Dewalt and they're very comfortable to use, but they do feel like a toy after using my Bosch.

If you do get the 12V Dewalt, then you're limited in tool selection. With the Bosch, you have the option to add in the reciprocating/circular/jigsaw.

 

[Drock93]

Drock, I have the same Bosch kit (and more ). They are just fantastic. All the power you need and they're quite compact. Not as light as the 12V stuff, but they're not heavy either, especially with the compact battery. I have some 12V Dewalt and they're very comfortable to use, but they do feel like a toy after using my Bosch.

If you do get the 12V Dewalt, then you're limited in tool selection. With the Bosch, you have the option to add in the reciprocating/circular/jigsaw.

I would only get a cordless drill and impact, all other tools I prefer corded

 

[Rico.]

I would only get a cordless drill and impact, all other tools I prefer cordless

I think we know what you meant...

I only have Bosch power tools so I can't give you any comparison advise. All I can say
is my little Bosch 18v cordless drill has exceeded my expectations. I've had it for 5 years
now and still it works as good as new with light to medium home duties only.

 

[Playwme]

I've got the Hitachi 18v stuff. Currently up to 3 drills and a circular saw. It doesn't cost much more to buya drill and 2 battery combo than it does to buy 2 batteries so every time I need more aH I just buy another kit. Comes in handy cause you can have a pilot bit in one, countersink in other, and screw bit in the 3rd. Makes jobs a lot quicker when you don't need to change bits all the time.
As for power and longevity, my oldest one is going on 5 years and I've put them through hell screwing in thousands of roofing screws and building timber retaining walls. They'll put a 4 inch screw all the way into hardwood sleepers with no pilot hole no worries

 

[HunterWare]

There is another kit you might look at:

http://www.ohiopowertool.com/p-4877-bosch-world-of-concrete-cordless-package-2610026871.aspx

This is the better drill and driver, and it includes the new 4Ah batteries (plus some nice bits and such). If you were going to go further into the Bosch cordless line then you can think of those batteries as an investment, basically 33% longer runtime than before with all the tools. The kit from lowes was with the slim batteries, less runtime and (oddly) slightly less peak power on tests... But much less expensive and lighter.

I'm not sure if this kit and/or pricing will be available generally soon.

 

[tarbellb]

Bosch is a GREAT all around tool brand, just about everything they make is top 3 for DIY grade tools. It is also usually top 3 in price, but its worth the money IMO.

I on the other hand, I own a lot of Hitachi tools. Everything from their older Li-ion 18v impact/drill combo, corded drills, jig saw, sawzall, etc... Overall excellent results and very happy with them all, specially the 18v stuff.
I think Hitachi is a great brand and a good price. Lots of bang for the buck, and the higher end stuff is on par with best.

 

[frankush]

Check this Bosch set out at Menards.

http://www.menards.com/main/tools-h...ordless-combo-kit-2-tool/p-1629598-c-9072.htm

I think this setup would work out very nicely for homeowner use and it's on sale too.

 

[dirtydogintex]

http://bigskytool.com/default.aspx

Their Hitachi 'refurbs' might as well be new.... except for the cost.
Good stuff!!

 

[Jeffksf]

http://bigskytool.com/default.aspx

Their Hitachi 'refurbs' might as well be new.... except for the cost.
Good stuff!!

I agree, I've bought a few things there and it always looks and performs as new. Great site.

 

[Monte]

Bosch.....

 

[nanofrog]

+1 for Bosch

 

[Monte]

Did you take a "live" look at the Hitachi and Bosch tools ...? i think Bosch tools have a better build quality than Hitachi....

 

[Lasu]

Did you take a "live" look at the Hitachi and Bosch tools ...? i think Bosch tools have a better build quality than Hitachi....

Bosch builds nice jigsaws,but new lithium ion cordless drills has runout problems more than ever. The Milwaukee makes very good drills.My next drill is not Bosch.

 

[Rhyno37]

Bosch builds nice jigsaws,but new lithium ion cordless drills has runout problems more than ever. The Milwaukee makes very good drills.My next drill is not Bosch.

Funny you should say that, I tried over 8 Milwaukee drills (both M12 and M18, hammer and non hammer) and every single one of them had runout or chuck wobble. Some were absolutely horrible, some not as bad. Same thing with Dewalt and Makita. From what I read, this is the norm now with the chucks on these compact drills. I read that the Jacob's chucks are causing problems, but Rohm chucks are just fine.

 

[Russianstyle]

Don't buy the hitachi without holding it in your hand first. I'm looking to buy a drill combo kit right now, and when I was doing research hitachi brushless looked like it would be it with the 3.0 battery. When I saw and felt it in my hand in Lowes, it looked like a cheap plastic toy. The little buttons on the batteries are a joke, I wouldn't go with hitachi.

Right now for me, for the drill combo kit it's either Bosch 18v 3.0 or dewalt 20v line.
As for saws, I agree with above poster and go with Milwaukee. I currently have a 18v Makita 1.5, lasted for over 3 years now, but I don't like the plastic chuck.

For a miter saw I think the Bosch glider is the best.

 

[GSteg]

There is another kit you might look at:

http://www.ohiopowertool.com/p-4877-bosch-world-of-concrete-cordless-package-2610026871.aspx

This is the better drill and driver, and it includes the new 4Ah batteries (plus some nice bits and such).

Where does it say you get the 4AH battery? I thought it wasn't released yet?

 

[Drock93]

Well, I ended up purchasing this kit today:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005GT0IXO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

After holding them in my hands at Lowes, I was dead set. The drill is larger, but is still lightweight. The power these things put out in numbers astonishes me for the price.

That being said, what kind of drill/driver bits do you guys recommend? Just the Bosch ones?

Now that I've got a Drill/Impact, Circular Saw, and Jigsaw, what do you guys recommend for a grinder, random orbit sander, and miter saw for lighter use? I was thinking maybe these two:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003DQO7GG/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-...p-00921237000P?prdNo=2&blockNo=2&blockType=G2

Seems like a great price for a sliding miter saw.

 

[cheechi]

Drill/Impact Combo Bosch 18v
Reciprocating Saw Milwaukee (12+ amp) or Dewalt (12 amp 'compact')
Circular Saw Dewalt
Jig Saw Bosch
Miter Saw take your pick just get a good one.
Random Orbit Sander *
4.5" Grinder *

* I go through these tools often enough that I don't think there should be a brand preference. Get one that does what you want out of the box, is comfortable, and can do the extra stuff (a sander that attaches to your vac without extra adapter, for example) that makes it work for you. If you use them with any regularity, you could burn up a sander or grinder in about 6 months like I do. Don't cheap out, but keep it in mind the top end won't be the best bang for the buck. Either aim for the middle or buy a different one each time to see what works best for you.

Edit: you made a good choice. I have that same kit except I got the bigger batteries with mine. For bits, that will start a whole nother thread (or you can look through the thousand) but I get what's decent quality for cheap. dewalt bits & milwaukee impact are on sale pretty often. I stock up when they're $5/kit.

 

[Monte]

Bosch builds nice jigsaws,but new lithium ion cordless drills has runout problems more than ever. The Milwaukee makes very good drills.My next drill is not Bosch.

sometimes it´s just the sleeve of the chuck....but many drills have this or other problems (whole spindle has axial/radial play...)....the only drills which i found where i personally would underwrite "this is quality" would be Festool/Protool drills....


Hitachi is plain ugly. Their power tools look like a ******* child of a Harbour Freight tool and a alien.


Sorry

 

[Drock93]

Well ****, guys. I got my combo from amazon today, and let me say I absolutely love the size, power, and ergos. Only problem is I just looked some more on Amazon and found some of the drills come with the new L-BOXX as a case instead of a soft bag (which I hate). I'd have to wait a while to get an impact, but do you guys think it'd be worth it? Oddly, the hammer drill and non hammer drill are the same price. Would I be crazy to get the drill with the L-BOXX for now, then maybe over the summer get the impactor?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009K1HM7Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009K1HMB0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009QYHR84/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Rhyno37]

Well ****, guys. I got my combo from amazon today, and let me say I absolutely love the size, power, and ergos. Only problem is I just looked some more on Amazon and found some of the drills come with the new L-BOXX as a case instead of a soft bag (which I hate). I'd have to wait a while to get an impact, but do you guys think it'd be worth it? Oddly, the hammer drill and non hammer drill are the same price. Would I be crazy to get the drill with the L-BOXX for now, then maybe over the summer get the impactor?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009K1HM7Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009K1HMB0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009QYHR84/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Hmm, the l boxx would be pretty tempting since it's cheaper than the normal drill package, but it would end up being more expensive to get an impact later

 

[shoturtle]

Bosch 18v would be what I would get if I were to start out building a power tool set. I have a large selection of Bosch 18v stuff now, switch over from dewalt. And they are rock solid and have a lot of power for a compact size, they are not to much larger then the Hitachi 12v stuff. But hitachi makes good tools as well. But for starting out I would rather have 18v over 12v.

I have the DDS181 form bosch and it is rock solid, no runout issues like my old dewalt. That is my go to drill for most projects unless I need a hammer drill. The the brute comes out.

 

[BrokewrenchLS1]

It'd be a toss-up for me. I have Bosch and Hitachi tools and like both. I did buy a Bosch palm sander that was so out of balance it was completely unusable, and replaced it at the store with a Dewalt that's worked fine.

I've got Bosch grinders, jigsaws and 12v drivers that work great, and Hitachi miter and circular saws and an 18v lithium drill/impact set that do what they need to.

 

[Drock93]

So do you guys think I'd be foolish to return my combo kit, and in turn get the Hammer Drill version with L-BOXX, then get an impact later as a bare tool? Seems like a better deal, Since a Bosch Hammer Drill is normall $239 with normal case, where as this one has an L-BOXX for only $189.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009K1HM7Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I put compared the normal and hammer version menard's today, and both felt the same weight. The hammer drill was only a tad longer.

 

[shoturtle]

Giving he has a $300 giftcard form menard, I would go with what they carry. As it is no cost out of pocket. That give you the 12v hitachi or the 18v bosch. To start out, I would go 18v, and add 12v later.

And since the op is a new home owner, 18v will do a better job is there is any deck repair or hard wood work that needs to be down. 12v will work for about a half dozen 4 inch screw, but it takes more time and more battery to really work on a big stuff around the house.

 

[Drock93]

Actually I decided to spend the gift cards on some other things for my home. I bought the drill/impact combo I linked a few posts up. I am just trying to decide if I should return it to Amazon and get the hammer drill with the L-BOXX I linked two posts up.

 

[frankush]

The hammer mechanisms on cordless tools are very light duty. When they break and they do, it's generally not worth fixing. The impacts use a much more robust mechanism and seem to hold up well. Keep what you've got unless you have to have the L-boxx.

 

[shoturtle]

I would get a higher grade hammer drill with the metal collar, and 2 fat pack batteries over the l boxx. I think the L boxx are nice, but I am not a fan of power tools cases. And the batteries are way more useful if you work on building a deck or some big project.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0052TZCE8/?tag=atomicindus08-20