Cordless Driller for a DIY'er

[Rhyno37]

Hey y'all, this is my first post on here so go easy! After having my ****** Black&Decker drill fail on me, I decided it was time to buy a proper drill. This last weekend I picked up a Bosch drill/driver from Menards for $119 ($150 everywhere else I can find it). Here is the drill:

http://www.menards.com/main/tools-h...t-cordless-compact-drill/p-1629603-c-9072.htm

I really like the drill, but after doing some more reading I am second guessing myself and thinking about returning it. Bosch seems to have a great reputation, and a good warranty/customer service from what I've read. One thing I'm worried about is once the batteries finally die, can you rebuild them or have them rebuilt? I've seen many places claim to rebuild dewalt, makita, milwaukee, etc but never see bosch.

My next worry is the chuck size. It is a 3/8 chuck. I am not that knowledgeable about chuck sizes, and am not sure if a 3/8 chuck will suffice for a DIY'er around the home. I plan to build a deck and fence in the coming future, but those are probably my biggest projects. Is there any reason for a non-contracter to get a 1/2" chuck? What kind of things use a 1/2?

On one hand, I don't want to spend a lot and hope my current drill would suffice, but then on the other hand I don't mind spending another $40-80 if the drill would server me better. Below I have listed 2 other drills that are commonly suggested on other forums, as long as a combo. I would buy the combo, but don't know how much I'd us an impact driver, or if I really would need it.

http://www.homedepot.com/Tools-Hard...Id=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051#.UPXbJCf7Kwg

http://www.homedepot.com/Tools-Hard...Id=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051#.UPXbJSf7Kwg

http://www.homedepot.com/Tools-Hard...Id=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051#.UPXdFyf7Kwg

 

[toyville]

If you are worried about battery life return it and buy a Rigid combo pack from HD and once you register them with Rigid it will all have a Lifetime warranty including the Batteries.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I have bought refurbished DeWalt and I think they are a good value.

First, anyone who does more than just a little DIY probably needs 2 drills. A cheap battery 3/8" (like B&D) and a corded 1/2". A good 1/2" drill will only spin about 600 rpm. Fine for 3/8" and up drill bits, but not good for anything less than 1/4". If you can only afford one get a good 3/8"

If you are planning on shooting deck screws with a drill forget it. Get an impact. Faster and the battery will last longer.

Actually those small "panel" circular saw aren't bad if you put a carbide tip blade it and it will cut through 2x4 like butter.

Choosing a brand is like getting married. It is a long term commitment. Getting out of is expensive.

 

[2manytoyz]

I'd recommend the 18V Dewalt drill kit. $99 at Home Depot. Includes drill, two batteries, charger, and foo foo case.

1/2" chuck, and a useful amount of torque.

After you buy the first piece of the puzzle, the rest is easier. The drill kit comes with two batts and a charger, so the next piece you buy, you can just buy the tool, not the kit. Amazon has the 'naked' tools for far less than the kits.

My single purchase has expanded over the years:

My previous collection was 9.6V Makitas. This series has been discontinued, but still serve me well. I use these for projects that require less torque (driving screws), or requires more overhead work. The 18V drill gets heavy quickly when installing a vinyl patio ceiling for example.

I also have some Milwaukee and Bosch products. All are good, but the Dewalt, IMHO, is a better deal, with more options. Not a fan of the Ryobi cordless tools. Light homeowner grade at best.

 

[AL`]

I've considered getting new stuff myself. What I don't like is, the battery cost/investment and compatibility issues -- theoldwizard1 sure hit the nail on the head. So consider well before getting hitched. Good luck with your decision. I'll read what others post in this thread with interest. I didn't vote since I don't have any of those brands. But based on the research I've been doing, I'd lean towards the Milwaukee M18 line of products.

 

[rogersmithiii]

The one thing that has kept me from getting a Cordless drill is worry that if I don't use it often enough, those expensive batteries are going to end up dying, and not holding a charge. I find that in the radio world, rechargeable batteries have to be used to keep them from losing their ability to hold a full charge.

Has anyone seen this, or am I worrying for nothing?