Community Forums

Wayne M · 11-29-2012, 09:40 AM

I purchased a Ryobi 18v with lithium batteries at an Outlet store. I have had it for a couple years. The batteries maintain a charge - just disconnect them from the drill head - and they charge up quickly. Dril, charger, and batteries all fit into a cloth carry bag that is about 12" x 8' X 6" or so. If something were to happen with this drill I would buy another Ryobi if price and availability were right.

pumper9x9 · 11-29-2012, 07:27 PM

Milwaukee and Porter Cable are the top commercial brands out there. However a good 18v quick change high capacity battery and charger (consider lithium ion batteries and charger) should take care of most of you drill needs in a MH unless you have a serious fixer upper.

Dogpatch · 11-29-2012, 07:42 PM

Many of the power tool manufacturers use out of country tool makers ie; Japan, Mexico etc.

My experience as a carpenter is to stay away from Mexican made batteries as they don't hold a charge as long as Asian made.

I have a 12v Hitachi drill that's about 15 years old that has as much torque as my Dewalt 18v. Battery from Japan lasts longer to. Not Lithium either. Just looked after.

UFO Pilot · 11-29-2012, 07:42 PM

I bought this: Ryobi P230 18-Volt 1/4-Inch Impact Driver (bare tool only - battery and charger not included) - Amazon.com because I already had almost every Ryobi tool. I have found that using the impact driver reduces the amount of stripped screws.

Dogpatch · 11-29-2012, 07:46 PM

Ditto on Lithium batteries though. No memory retention and usually quick charge.

UFO Pilot · 11-29-2012, 07:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dogpatch

Ditto on Lithium batteries though. No memory retention and usually quick charge.

If I was starting over, I would buy Lithium.

Mr_D · 11-29-2012, 07:58 PM

Back when I was building and selling computers, working on rack mount systems and SAN's I bought a small electric screwdriver. I was amazed about the amount or torque it had and how long the charge lasted. The new drills are even better and can strip a screw right out if you're not careful. I carry one in the MH, even has a small hand saw that does a good job for small work. It's not like a cabinet makers table saw though!