Replies

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Dec 28, 2007 09:46am | #1

   I recently picked up the brand new Bosch 14.4V cordless drill with 1/2" ratcheting chuck.  The regular price was $300 but I got it at the bargain (unbelievable) price of $150 at my local tool dealer.  I've been really happy with it.  No complaints other than a poor location to store a bit (on the back above the battery where it scratches my wrist every time I put it down).   In regards to Ridgid and Makita, I've used many Makita products including their 14.4V NiCad drill with 1/2" ratcheting chuck and was quite impressed.  The light originally seemed like a gimmick, but it does come in handy.  I've played with the Ridgid in the store.  They have ample power but seem awfully heavy.  Between the three, based on performance alone, I'd choose the Bosch first followed by the Makita and finally the Ridgid.

   Chris @ flairwoodworks

2. 
   Wingdoctor | Dec 28, 2007 07:34pm | #2

   Been there done that. I too was fed up with the heavy, low power Craftsman cordless drill, I had 2. I bit the bullet and bought the Dewalt 18v. It has a ton of power, batteries last forever before needing charged, charges a depleted battery in less than hour, 2-speed transmission so it can be used for drilling and driving fasteners and very dependable. I've even used it to mix thinset in a 5 gallon bucket with a big agitator in the chuck. I'll never go back!!

   I was given a gift card last Christmas to Lowe's and while looking at tools I spotted the little 10.8v Bosch cordless driver. This is a dedicated screwdriver and not for drilling. It is lithium-ion and the batteries last a long time. It's light weight so it's easy to handle, small to get in tight spots, and has enough power to drive 3" drywall screws into studs.

   Together they do everything I need them to do in the wood shop and in the home repair area except hammer drilling. I don't do enough drilling into masonry to warranty a special drill.

1. 
   ddcoop | Dec 28, 2007 07:40pm | #3

   I was wondering about the dedicated drivers, I saw the Bosch one, just wondered if they had enough juice.

3. 
   JJV | Dec 29, 2007 12:58am | #4

   What will you be using it for?  Shop use?  Construction?  For shop/home use, I really like the newer compat 18 v Lithium Ion drills that Makita and Milawukee make.  I like them so much in fact that I have one of each.  They're both comparable in performance and price, but I like the feel of the Milwaukee better than the Makita so I go to that one more.  They're both around $200.  For $70 more you can get the Makita in a nice kit with an impact driver.  Handy. 

   I could go on.  I much prefer the Li-Ion battery tools now.

    

   Most nights are crystal clear, but tonight it's like he's stuck between stations.

1. 
   ddcoop | Dec 29, 2007 01:10am | #5

   Mainly shop use, that was why I was thinking of a driver only

1. 
   user-121940 | Dec 29, 2007 01:51am | #6

   The only thing stopping me from upgrading is my 18 volt dewalts (2 drills and an impact driver) just won't die. But I've been looking at the Makita lithium-ion drill and imp. driver kit. If I do well on my current project (building a built-in hutch for a client), I may splurge and get it anyway. I could always leave the dewalt drills for use in my shop. But anyway, I like the Makita li-ion kit. The milwaukee looks good too.--------------------------------------------------------

   For a good time, visit MyToolbox.net See some of my work at TedsCarpentry.com