Drill test – 3/8-in. holes: 36 Drill test – 3/4-in. holes: 12 Driver test – 3-in. screws: 62 Driver test – 4-in. screws (inches driven): 3 in. Street price: $190 Batteries: 1.1 amp-hours
The DeWalt tools also tested at or near the top (behind the Fuel), and I enjoyed using them around the shop and on the job. The pod-style batteries allow thinner handles, which I find more comfortable. This comes at the cost of being bulkier overall than the Bosch, though not by much. The drill has a locking chuck, and the impact driver is quite compact, features three LED lights, and has a slip-in chuck. The DeWalt tools also have the most user-friendly belt hooks.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
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.
The clear winner here is Festool’s CT 48 Dust Extractor. It has amazing capacity relative to its size, and unmatched suction power. It packs in a number of subtle but very helpful design touches, like a clever foot brake and easy hose and cord storage.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
Become an UNLIMITED member and get it all: searchable online archive of every issue, how-to videos, Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking digital series, print magazine, e-newsletter, and more.
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Sign up Log in