Impact drivers are a hot item because they make driving screws almost effortless and their amazing run time means you can work all day without running out of juice. But an impact driver won’t replace your conventional cordless drill. The hex-shanked bit holders don’t accept traditional drill bits without an accessory chuck and the impacting action—which kicks in when the tool encounters sufficient resistance— makes for slow drilling in hardwood. Recently, engineers have been able to pack driving and drilling modes into a single tool.
The Bosch 26618 do-it-all has as 18-volt lithium-ion batteries for less weight and a longer run time. At 4.3-lb. the Bosch is about the same size and weight as a large 18-volt cordless drill. A simple switch on the top of the Bosch housing allows you to select between one impact mode and two drilling modes. Even though the Bosch performed well in all of our tests, I think furniture makers would be better served by a two-tool kit. The Bosch has a higher price point than comparative two-tool kits, but it performs well and its do-it-all convenience would likely make it a great tool for home remodeling and repair.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Festool Rotex FEQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander

The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon

Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw

With enough power to slice through thick hardwoods, the Makita makes smooth, chip-free cuts in all materials.

Buy at Amazon