Replies

1. 
   forestgirl | Sep 30, 2003 08:00am | #1

   I feel a fit of cynicism coming on:  My lifetime, or theirs?  Tee hee.  This must part and parcel of the switch to Ryobi making their tools.  Closing out their old stock.

   Sorry Doc, I just couldn't resist.  I think I'll check it out the next time I go to HD.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl   ;-)

2. 
   hmthomas | Sep 30, 2003 08:43pm | #2

   Doc,

   Before you buy the Rigid check out the Hitachi 14 volt at Lowes. I got it for $89, included was a flashlight, 2nd battery, charger, plastic case and a cloth toolbag.  Its light weight and powerful and has a super clutch. I seldom use my Porter Cable 14 Volt anymore. Hard to beat it at that price.

   see ya, Hugh

3. 
   CRAIGCONEY_M | Oct 01, 2003 08:07pm | #3

   I looked at the Ridgid line and, well, to me it looks like a consumer line.  Most of what I saw was big, bullky, and akward.  Not too impressed at their price point either.  The drills seem heavy to me.  A big consideration when using it all day long. 

   If you are an occasional user, it may be a good choice.  Professionally speaking, I will stick with the professional lines, like Bosch, Makita, PC, Hitachi and Dewalt.   You just need to watch out for what you buy from each manufacturer.  Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses.  Replacement parts is another consideration as well. 

   I view cordless drills as a disposable item these days.  If I can buy a 14.4V drill with 2 batteries and rapid charger for between $80-$140, use it daily for 1-2 years, I feel like I've gotten my monies worth.  Often it  is more expensive to buy 2 replacemnt batteries than to buy a new drill kit. 

   Just my opinion.