Which brand 18V Li-ion battery/tool system?
#1
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I need:
- a sawzall
- an impact screwdriver (for deck assembly work)
- hammer drill
- perhaps later, an impact driver for lug nuts
- and maybe some more later ... (BTW I already have a 19.2V Nicd drill/driver)
Use will be light duty home renovation.
I think it's logical to buy the same brand that use the same batteries and charger. I'd like to have 2 batteries and a charger.
So...
Porter Cable OK? Craftsman? Or should I step up to Makita or Dewalt?
__________________
- a sawzall
- an impact screwdriver (for deck assembly work)
- hammer drill
- perhaps later, an impact driver for lug nuts
- and maybe some more later ... (BTW I already have a 19.2V Nicd drill/driver)
Use will be light duty home renovation.
I think it's logical to buy the same brand that use the same batteries and charger. I'd like to have 2 batteries and a charger.
So...
Porter Cable OK? Craftsman? Or should I step up to Makita or Dewalt?
__________________
#2
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I have a "Green" Makita 18V lithium set with 1/2", drill 3/8" impact and 1/2" impact and love them! The batteries last way longer then anything I've ever used and the tools just feel and work great. I can't speak for the "White" stuff but have heard they are still great tools. I'm supplied Dewalt XRP at work and the tools just aren't on the same level as far as I'm concerned.
#15
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I was in the market a few months ago for a Li ion set. I ended up going with the Nicad porter cable set at lowes for $129. I could not be happier. Yes, they are heavier, but replacement batteries are cheap, and the tools work awesome
Drill, reciprocating saw, circular saw, and flashlight. I've used the drill and reciprocating saw a bunch and I'm impressed with the battery life. It replaced my Craftsman 18V Nicad drill.
If I used it every day for work, I'd go for Li ion for the weight savings. My occasional used made this kit a steal.
Drill, reciprocating saw, circular saw, and flashlight. I've used the drill and reciprocating saw a bunch and I'm impressed with the battery life. It replaced my Craftsman 18V Nicad drill.
If I used it every day for work, I'd go for Li ion for the weight savings. My occasional used made this kit a steal.
#17
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I rock this:
![](https://www.miataturbo.net/attachments/insert-bs-here-4/55466-brand-18v-li-ion-battery-tool-system-210450185.jpg?dateline=1348335871)
M18 Red Lithium 18-Volt Cordless 2-Tool Combo Kit - Compact Drill / Impact Driver-2691-22 at The Home Depot
Worth every penny. Lithium batteries that charge from dead to full in like 15 minutes. Super super effing light.
Had one of these:
![](http://ultratodayidea.info/images/Daily-Sales-Makita-LXFD01CW-18Volt-Compact-LithiumIon-Cordless-12Inch_41g0lpnPbKL._494_449.jpg)
Which is a makita version of the Milwaukee. Piece of ****. Bought brand new, used six months and the charger died. Still have it, not willing to drop money on a new charger so it collects dust.
![](https://www.miataturbo.net/attachments/insert-bs-here-4/55466-brand-18v-li-ion-battery-tool-system-210450185.jpg?dateline=1348335871)
M18 Red Lithium 18-Volt Cordless 2-Tool Combo Kit - Compact Drill / Impact Driver-2691-22 at The Home Depot
Worth every penny. Lithium batteries that charge from dead to full in like 15 minutes. Super super effing light.
Had one of these:
![](http://ultratodayidea.info/images/Daily-Sales-Makita-LXFD01CW-18Volt-Compact-LithiumIon-Cordless-12Inch_41g0lpnPbKL._494_449.jpg)
Which is a makita version of the Milwaukee. Piece of ****. Bought brand new, used six months and the charger died. Still have it, not willing to drop money on a new charger so it collects dust.
#18
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I've never found any thread, comparison, or review that could demonstrate any real difference by brand for this stuff. Maybe 20 years ago, but these days I expect they're all made in the same 2 or 3 factories anyway. Decide what features are important to you, narrow it down to specific sets, then look for the best deal. Fill out your warranty card.