Charger for battery powered tools - universal voltage?

[marcone]

Hey guys,

Would want to ask if the charger for battery powered tools (interested mostly in small cordless impact drills) usually supports universal voltages (100-240v)?
I am interested in buying such a drill from the US but where I live we have 230V mains and wondering whether to buy the whole package (drill+battery+charger) or just the tool+battery and source charger locally.

Thanks

 

[user.nr.1]

my Makita LXT charger is 110V only

I use a 230/110V transformer.

 

[Stuart in MN]

There may be some chargers that are universal voltage but you probably have to look at the operator's manual for each make and model - for instance, I just looked at the Milwaukee tools website and their "M18 and M12 Multi-Voltage Charger" is rated for 120vac only.

 

[marcone]

Thanks, I thought things are the same as for electronics chargers which are prety much universal, you only need to buy plug adapters.
I think I'll go the safe way and source a charger locally.

Another question: what's the best buy option for a cordless impact drill, looking at products from Makita, Bosch, DeWalt, Hitachi which can get serviced locally in case of need.