Replies

1. 
   jazzdogg | Jan 11, 2005 07:39pm | #1

   I have a 15.6v Panasonic impact driver and love it! Were I starting over again re: electric drills/drivers, this would be the first one I'd buy because of its versatility & effectiveness.

   -Jazzdogg-

   Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

1. 
   JBentley | Jan 11, 2005 08:39pm | #2

   Do the batteries last? I read they are rated at 3.5 amp hours. Have you found this to be accurate? Thanks for your comments.

1. 
   rmcjh | Jan 11, 2005 11:06pm | #3

   The latest Wood magazine has a comparrison of 14.4 drill/drivers that might be of interest to you.

   Roger

2. 
   jazzdogg | Jan 12, 2005 01:46am | #5

   "Do the batteries last? I read they are rated at 3.5 amp hours. Have you found this to be accurate? Thanks for your comments."JAB,Absolutely no battery problems so far - I've had it about a year and a half. Spent a few days pre-drilling and screwing a metal-clad barn with a friend, and a single battery lasted all day. I'll be curious to see how well these batteries age compared to the old-style NiCads.-Jazzdogg-

   Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

1. 
   nikkiwood | Jan 12, 2005 03:21am | #7

   I concur with all the other comments, and I think it is fair to say Panasonic is the class of the field ( of cordless tools).The battery ratings signify how long the battery will hold its charge -- the higher number, the better. The 3.5 is, I believe, the highest available -- and these things do hold a charge for a long time. However, they are expensive -- about $80-90 -- when it comes time to replace them. I too have the 15.6v impact driver, and it is an awsome tool. Are you aware that it also comes with a drill chuck, so it can be used either as an impact driver or a conventional drill? Again, I think this is the only impact driver on the market that can also be used as a drill. You will pay a premium price for Panasonic tools, but I think they are worth it.

2. 
   alias | Jan 12, 2005 01:29am | #4

   i've had makita, portercable,and dewalt and my panasonic i've had for 6-7 years are my estimation the best out there bar none. power,ergonomic's, battery longevity(cold cut's them down), all those feature the panasonic is heads above,when all above considered.

   "expectations are premeditated resentments"
3. 
   HaworthR | Jan 12, 2005 03:21am | #6

   I've had a 14.4 DeWalt, a 14.4 B&D, a 12V Makita and now a 12V Panasonic 3.5AHr drill.  I swear sometimes the Panasonic has a cord!  I chose the 12V because it's lighter and was touted to last longer that the 14.4 volt competition.  Man, does it!  It is truly one of those tools that you enjoy using above all others.  Also, the chuck is slick and is a one-handed affair and never seems to slip.  The only drawback is that I wish they made a 12V circular saw.  That would be one advantage of the 15.6 V drill.

   -Rob Haworth