Go Back   Winnipesaukee Forum > Winnipesaukee Forums > Home, Cottage or Land Maintenance
Home Forums Gallery Webcams Blogs YouTube Channel Classifieds Calendar Register FAQDonate Members List Search Today's Posts Mark Forums Read

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 04-27-2021, 07:32 PM   #1
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default Cordless/Power Tools

Ok, sooo...I could use a sliding miter saw and new cordless tools. I'm pretty sure I'd buy a DeWalt miter saw, but I'm not sure about cordless tools. I'd be replacing a 13-year-old Hitachi set that has performed flawlessly.

If money was no object, which cordless kit would you buy? I need reciprocating saw, impact driver, circular saw, and a hammer/standard drill. I'm a standard homeowner that doesn't use the tools all the time but appreciate quality.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2021, 07:51 PM   #2
CooperS7777
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 69
Thanks: 103
Thanked 20 Times in 16 Posts
Default

I have been extremely happy with the Milwaukee line of cordless tools. I have a few impact guns, drills, impact driver, grinder, cutoff wheel, sawzall, skill saw, sander, leaf blower, vacuums etc in both a mix of 18v and 12v.
They all work amazingly well and the FUEL line is particularly impressive. Some of these tools are used in a work shop environment, and others are just home use.

I had one issue with an impact gun that was several years old - the anvil sheared when I was doing some work on my dock. I dropped it off at JD Tool Repair in Conway (Milwaukee authorized service center) and they were able to fix it up no problem. I honestly have no idea how old the tool was at the time, but I do know I had no receipt and I had never personally taken the time to "register" the tool online. I fully expected to have to pay for the repair, but they were adamant that it was a warranty item and I was not charged a thing even though the tool was purchased elsewhere. One of my impact drivers has now ended up in the lake on two occasions while working on the dock; I simply blew it dry with my air compressor, let it sit for a few days and its still going strong.
CooperS7777 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2021, 08:30 PM   #3
trfour
Senior Member
 
trfour's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: The Lakes, Central NH. and Dallas/Fort Worth TX.
Posts: 3,694
Blog Entries: 3
Thanks: 3,069
Thanked 472 Times in 236 Posts
Post If you can't find locale

This should help; https://www.bing.com/images/search?q...mageBasicHover

After building a 25'x 25' gazebo and a 5,000 square foot deck, using all treated deck screws, all USA brands worked well for me.
__________________
trfour

Always Remember, The Best Safety Device In The Boat, or on a PWC Snowmobile etc., Is YOU!

Safe sledding tips and much more; http://www.snowmobile.org/snowmobiling-safety.html
trfour is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to trfour For This Useful Post:
ApS (04-28-2021)
Old 04-27-2021, 08:53 PM   #4
Dad sold the C * C
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 273
Thanks: 119
Thanked 62 Times in 40 Posts
Default

I've had the Dewalt 12" sliding compound mitre saw for maybe 3 years now and I'm very happy with it.

For battery I went with Makita 18V. The drill / driver set and the Sawsall and multitool are the first things packed every weekend. I have about 10 tools including some of the 2 battery tools like the chainsaw (yes chainsaw, it starts every time ) and weed wacker. They have worked great for me. When asked I say the obvious, pick one style so your batteries interchange.

I will say if your looking for a sander you can't beat Festool and their vacuum system., but it gets a lot of use with wooden boats.
Dad sold the C * C is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 05:12 AM   #5
Blue Thunder
Senior Member
 
Blue Thunder's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Eastern MA & Frye Island/Sebago Lake, Maine
Posts: 935
Thanks: 247
Thanked 323 Times in 148 Posts
Default

Every battery operated tool for me is the 20 volt lithium battery Dewalt. There are often deals on kits that contain many of what you are looking for. I have the drill, impact driver, sawzall, and multi-tool. I also have the 12” Dewalt compound sliding mitre saw. (Corded)

BT
__________________
" Live for today because yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come"
Blue Thunder is offline   Reply With Quote
Sponsored Links
Old 04-28-2021, 05:39 AM   #6
BroadHopper
Senior Member
 
BroadHopper's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Laconia NH
Posts: 5,504
Thanks: 3,113
Thanked 1,089 Times in 783 Posts
Default Kobalt

When I worked for Lowes, I bought a complete set of 24 volts tools. It's been 10 years of constant projects, large and small. I can't say enough about them!
I had Milwaukee before and KOBALT appears to be a step above.
__________________
Someday may never be an actual day.
BroadHopper is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 05:47 AM   #7
Asloren1
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 13
Thanks: 14
Thanked 7 Times in 5 Posts
Default Makita!

I have a decent size and growing collection of the Makita cordless 18v tools (driver, impact driver, multi-tool, saws-all, circular saw, sander, jigsaw, hedge trimmer with the power shaft, weedwacker, 14” chainsaw…I think that’s it ;-)

The batteries are excellent…particularly the 5AH ones - definitely get one or more of the kits that come with 2 batts. (Amazon has most if not all of these)

The tools are solid and feel very high quality.

Was strongly recommended to go Makita by my brother in law who is a contractor and I haven’t been disappointed at all!
Asloren1 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 07:11 AM   #8
Paugus Bay Resident
Senior Member
 
Paugus Bay Resident's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: Gilmanton, NH
Posts: 754
Thanks: 136
Thanked 92 Times in 51 Posts
Default

I have pretty much stuck with Milwaukee M18s. With a good set of batteries, the bare tools are decently priced. I've also used some of the (much) less expensive aftermarket batteries with good success.

For miter saws, I love my Makita LS1019L.
Paugus Bay Resident is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 07:19 AM   #9
burgerunh
Senior Member
 
Join Date: May 2016
Posts: 90
Thanks: 4
Thanked 27 Times in 18 Posts
Default

I have been running RIDGID tools for the last few years. They have a lifetime warranty on the tools and the batteries if purchased in a kit at Home Depot. Be sure you jump through all the right hoops to register for the lifetime warranty. I have no complaints about the tools and have not had any failures yet.

I also have a milwaukee fuel drill, blower, and weed wacker. No complaints there either! Just no lifetime warranty on Milwaukee.
burgerunh is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 07:40 AM   #10
Ricky g
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2021
Posts: 17
Thanks: 2
Thanked 5 Times in 4 Posts
Default re: cordless tools

If money were no object, I'd go with festool for battery tools. Within a budget for mere mortals, I've been pretty satisfied with Dewalt products- though my experience has mostly been drills. My biggest recommendation with any brand is to get brushless tools whenever possible.
Ricky g is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to Ricky g For This Useful Post:
thinkxingu (04-28-2021)
Old 04-28-2021, 08:03 AM   #11
LIforrelaxin
Senior Member
 
LIforrelaxin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Long Island, not that one, the one on Winnipesaukee
Posts: 2,813
Thanks: 1,011
Thanked 878 Times in 513 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Ok, sooo...I could use a sliding miter saw and new cordless tools. I'm pretty sure I'd buy a DeWalt miter saw, but I'm not sure about cordless tools. I'd be replacing a 13-year-old Hitachi set that has performed flawlessly.

If money was no object, which cordless kit would you buy? I need reciprocating saw, impact driver, circular saw, and a hammer/standard drill. I'm a standard homeowner that doesn't use the tools all the time but appreciate quality.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
So I have a Hatachi set of around the same age, 18V..... The tools themselves are all still in good working order...The batteries on the other had don't hold a charge well.. After researching new cordless tools, I decided the best option was not to replace them.... Rather I ordered some be Li-ion Battery's and the charger to go with them:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bottom line, is for just over 100$ I will keep on using my existing cordless tools, with new battery technology.....
__________________
Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....
LIforrelaxin is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 08:34 AM   #12
codeman671
Senior Member
 
codeman671's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2005
Posts: 3,343
Thanks: 206
Thanked 759 Times in 443 Posts
Default

I have been using Dewalt and Ryobi for years with decent luck. Since last fall I have been selling off all of the old stuff and moving solely to Milwaukee.

My next miter saw will be a Milwaukee cordless. I'll be selling off my Dewalt and stand soon.
codeman671 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 09:14 AM   #13
fatlazyless
Senior Member
 
fatlazyless's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2004
Posts: 8,506
Blog Entries: 1
Thanks: 291
Thanked 950 Times in 692 Posts
Default

Hyper Tough battery and 110-volt corded tools are plenty good enough for home owner use. Bright red, low priced and easy to replace at the Walmart service counter if one turns out to be a dud. That Hyper Tough el cheapo $18.44 battery 3/8" capacity drill is very good enough. If you drop it in the lake or something, is easy to return for replacement and the service counter is happy to replace it.

For what you pay for a DeWalt you can buy three Hyper Toughs.

For a best-buy, check out the Hyper Tough 15-amp, 10" saw blade, stationary table saw with rip guide, mitre guide, and a steel stand for about $148 ..... if you can find one at this time ...... is probably out of stock.
__________________
... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake!

Last edited by fatlazyless; 04-29-2021 at 11:24 AM.
fatlazyless is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 10:13 AM   #14
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Ok, sooo...I could use a sliding miter saw and new cordless tools. I'm pretty sure I'd buy a DeWalt miter saw, but I'm not sure about cordless tools. I'd be replacing a 13-year-old Hitachi set that has performed flawlessly.

If money was no object, which cordless kit would you buy? I need reciprocating saw, impact driver, circular saw, and a hammer/standard drill. I'm a standard homeowner that doesn't use the tools all the time but appreciate quality.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
I like either Milwaukee or Makita, both are high quality.
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 10:45 AM   #15
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by codeman671 View Post
I have been using Dewalt and Ryobi for years with decent luck. Since last fall I have been selling off all of the old stuff and moving solely to Milwaukee.

My next miter saw will be a Milwaukee cordless. I'll be selling off my Dewalt and stand soon.
How old is the DeWalt? Message me if you like.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 10:48 AM   #16
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

I'm hearing DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita consistently, but the lifetime Ridgid warranty sounds appealing, especially if it covers batteries as, because I don't use the tools all the time, that's the weak point.

I'll also check out the Hitachi batteries posted above as I love my current tools but just need batteries.

Thanks, all!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 10:51 AM   #17
SAB1
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Tuftonboro
Posts: 1,162
Thanks: 182
Thanked 297 Times in 220 Posts
Default

My son is an electrician and uses battery operated tools daily. He buys nothing but Milwaukee...............
SAB1 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 01:46 PM   #18
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin View Post
So I have a Hatachi set of around the same age, 18V..... The tools themselves are all still in good working order...The batteries on the other had don't hold a charge well.. After researching new cordless tools, I decided the best option was not to replace them.... Rather I ordered some be Li-ion Battery's and the charger to go with them:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bottom line, is for just over 100$ I will keep on using my existing cordless tools, with new battery technology.....
Have you used those batteries? I've already got a Li-Ion charger, but 4 stars isn't super comforting.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 01:58 PM   #19
BroadHopper
Senior Member
 
BroadHopper's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Laconia NH
Posts: 5,504
Thanks: 3,113
Thanked 1,089 Times in 783 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
I'm hearing DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita consistently, but the lifetime Ridgid warranty sounds appealing, especially if it covers batteries as, because I don't use the tools all the time, that's the weak point.

I'll also check out the Hitachi batteries posted above as I love my current tools but just need batteries.

Thanks, all!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
KOBALT has a lifetime warranty, not sure about the batteries.
__________________
Someday may never be an actual day.
BroadHopper is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 03:16 PM   #20
LIforrelaxin
Senior Member
 
LIforrelaxin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Long Island, not that one, the one on Winnipesaukee
Posts: 2,813
Thanks: 1,011
Thanked 878 Times in 513 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Have you used those batteries? I've already got a Li-Ion charger, but 4 stars isn't super comforting.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
So they will be going through there first big test this weekend.

But you need to look at some of the reviews... Several of the 1 star ratings are from people that didn't have the correct charger......

If you already have the LI-ion charger, you are looking a a 50$ investment for two batteries, or 26$-30$ for a single new battery....

compared to a 400-500$ to get all new tools, seems like an easy decision to me...especially if the old tools are still working just fine...... . but I do like to gamble more then some people.....
__________________
Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....
LIforrelaxin is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2021, 03:40 PM   #21
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin View Post
So they will be going through there first big test this weekend.

But you need to look at some of the reviews... Several of the 1 star ratings are from people that didn't have the correct charger......

If you already have the LI-ion charger, you are looking a a 50$ investment for two batteries, or 26$-30$ for a single new battery....

compared to a 400-500$ to get all new tools, seems like an easy decision to me...especially if the old tools are still working just fine...... . but I do like to gamble more then some people.....
I can't remember which one I read it on, but a reviewer posted that his batteries went up in flames!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-29-2021, 05:37 AM   #22
GodSmile
Senior Member
 
GodSmile's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Alton Bay
Posts: 188
Thanks: 91
Thanked 56 Times in 36 Posts
Default my 2 cents

I have been using Dewalt cordless drills and have been happy with them. I have one that I bought in 2001 (Have replaced batteries) and it still works well. I have a new Dewalt as well. Much lighter and you can see the technology has improved. I agree with some of the posters that Milwaukee is one of the best out there, and also Makita. I have found Dewalt to be a good value for my needs (I am a hobby woodworker, not a pro).

As for Compound Sliding Miter Saw, after quite a bit of research I purchased a Delta several years ago. I'm very happy with it, only downside is that I have it connected to a dust collector, and it is not engineered well for dust collection. If you would like more info on that let me know .
GodSmile is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to GodSmile For This Useful Post:
thinkxingu (04-29-2021)
Old 04-29-2021, 09:38 AM   #23
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Thumbs up

I did my kitchen over a few years ago and I bought a 18V Ryobi set, impact and drill as a back up to my 10 year old Makita. My 10 year old 18V Makita was smaller, lighter, more powerful, and lasted longer than the Ryobi.
I should have returned it but I used it only when the Makita battery went dead. I will always grab for the Makita before I grab for the Ryobi.
The Ryobi drill will kill the battery real quick if you are forced to bare down on it.
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-01-2021, 06:03 PM   #24
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Discovered today that neither my 18v DeWalt batteries for my camp kit nor my golf carts' batteries are holding good charges. Grrrrr...

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 04:50 AM   #25
TheProfessor
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,062
Thanks: 17
Thanked 325 Times in 198 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Ok, sooo...I could use a sliding miter saw and new cordless tools. I'm pretty sure I'd buy a DeWalt miter saw, but I'm not sure about cordless tools. I'd be replacing a 13-year-old Hitachi set that has performed flawlessly.

If money was no object, which cordless kit would you buy? I need reciprocating saw, impact driver, circular saw, and a hammer/standard drill. I'm a standard homeowner that doesn't use the tools all the time but appreciate quality.
Ergonomics
Battery quality and amount

Probably the most important.

Black & Decker has bought up many of the name brands. Porter Cable, Craftsmen, and DeWalt - just a few.

If I were purchasing such now I would buy items that came with an extra battery - or purchase a 2nd battery now.

My first cordless drill was made in Germany. 1980's. That lasted over 20 years. That was before removable batteries. I did have the battery refurbished once. But by that time it was less expensive to purchase a complete new drill. And the batteries evolved into removable batteries. Many more brands entered the market.

In the early 2,000's - Home Depot had a Black Friday sale of Ryobi 12V cordless drills. $20.00 each. I purchased 4 - just for the extra batteries. I still have and use those cordless drills. I did have the batteries rebuilt one time for each.

I have since purchased Master Mechanic cordless drills - on deep discount/sale - when the hardware stores switched name or went out of business. Those work fine.

Ergonomics and batteries is the short answer.
TheProfessor is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 05:40 AM   #26
fatlazyless
Senior Member
 
fatlazyless's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2004
Posts: 8,506
Blog Entries: 1
Thanks: 291
Thanked 950 Times in 692 Posts
Default

For very close to $19.92 with no sales tax, the Gilford Walmart has either an 18-volt red Hyper Tough cordless drill, or a Mainstays black k-cup, one cup coffee maker, and both items work totally good.

Either item is like the best twenty dollar item ever made in total world history for last 3000-years ..... they are the AK-47 model for battery drills and one cup coffee ...... lo-price, but totally effective. With this cheap cup of coffee and this cheap drill, you can do anything! ...
__________________
... down and out, liv'n that Walmart side of the lake!

Last edited by fatlazyless; 05-02-2021 at 06:22 AM.
fatlazyless is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 07:04 AM   #27
BroadHopper
Senior Member
 
BroadHopper's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Laconia NH
Posts: 5,504
Thanks: 3,113
Thanked 1,089 Times in 783 Posts
Default KIMO Power tools

Been consulting on some job sites outside the Lakes Region area. I notice a new tool in the contractors' arsenal named KIMO. Ask about the performance and they love it, decent power, and battery life. Anyone here has experience?
__________________
Someday may never be an actual day.
BroadHopper is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 08:59 AM   #28
Garcia
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 573
Thanks: 128
Thanked 258 Times in 161 Posts
Default Thoughts on cordless lblower

As i am opening up camp I realize how useful a few cordless tools wood be, particularly a leaf blower and sawzall. I have a cordless DeWalt drill and driver and like them. So, anyone have more insights on products from DeWalt? Sounds like people here like them. I would prefer to stay with one battery brand so I can easily interchange them. I might want to add components down the road, but don't see the need now to buy a whole set of tools as I have many, many corded options and am OK dragging around electric cords for now.

I have a backpack blower for big jobs, but for the roofs, decks, and general cleanup around camp it's overkill and a PIA to get out for a 5 minute project.

Thanks!
Garcia is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 09:14 AM   #29
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Default

I bought a battery powered blower.
It is limited, good for blowing off the deck and the pontoon but not the whole yard. It has 2 speeds and the high speed, which is really the only speed that's useful, really sucks up the battery. I mainly bought it to blow off the pontoon because I don't have power down at the dock so for that alone it was worth it.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 11:28 AM   #30
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

I think for high-volume use, higher voltage systems work much better. My 60V Greenworks trimmer lasts long enough on one battery to do my whole ~2/3 acre yard on high power (low works fine for most areas, but high cuts through just a little better).

That being said, if you've got a new(er) 20V DeWalt and can keep all the same batteries, I'd do that.

My current problem is that I have two older 18V kits with drills/drivers/reciprocating saws/circular saws, and replacing both would be $800-$1k. Given that I now need to spring ~$600 for new golf cart batteries, I'm thinking I'll just give the replacement batteries suggested above a shot and see how it goes.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to thinkxingu For This Useful Post:
Garcia (05-02-2021)
Old 05-02-2021, 12:43 PM   #31
Garcia
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 573
Thanks: 128
Thanked 258 Times in 161 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Biggd View Post
I bought a battery powered blower.
It is limited, good for blowing off the deck and the pontoon but not the whole yard. It has 2 speeds and the high speed, which is really the only speed that's useful, really sucks up the battery. I mainly bought it to blow off the pontoon because I don't have power down at the dock so for that alone it was worth it.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Thanks for the feedback. I'm looking to use it on three roofs and decks couple times a season on the roofs and as needed on the decks. If the cordless gets poor reviews, I would lean toward electric plugin and drag cords as needed and use the backpack for the paths.
Garcia is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 01:00 PM   #32
Outdoorsman
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2015
Posts: 815
Thanks: 113
Thanked 193 Times in 126 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by TheProfessor View Post
Ergonomics
Battery quality and amount

Probably the most important.

Black & Decker has bought up many of the name brands. Porter Cable, Craftsmen, and DeWalt - just a few.

If I were purchasing such now I would buy items that came with an extra battery - or purchase a 2nd battery now.

My first cordless drill was made in Germany. 1980's. That lasted over 20 years. That was before removable batteries. I did have the battery refurbished once. But by that time it was less expensive to purchase a complete new drill. And the batteries evolved into removable batteries. Many more brands entered the market.

In the early 2,000's - Home Depot had a Black Friday sale of Ryobi 12V cordless drills. $20.00 each. I purchased 4 - just for the extra batteries. I still have and use those cordless drills. I did have the batteries rebuilt one time for each.

I have since purchased Master Mechanic cordless drills - on deep discount/sale - when the hardware stores switched name or went out of business. Those work fine.

Ergonomics and batteries is the short answer.
Keep in mind, not all batteries are created equal. In the case of Milwaukee be aware, all batteries are not interchangeable nor do they last as long on a full charge....

They have many... I have
M12 and M18 which are interchangeable and they also have a "MX Fuel" which I believe is not recommended for the "M" series tools. Within the "M" series I have M18 - CP2.0 and M18 - XC5.0.

My suggestion is simply this.... Look for fully interchangeable batteries for the tools you need AND make sure they have the "run time" between charges that you need.

The "free battery" offer is great as long as you have a number of batteries to complete an all day project.
Outdoorsman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 05:28 PM   #33
TheProfessor
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,062
Thanks: 17
Thanked 325 Times in 198 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Outdoorsman View Post

My suggestion is simply this.... Look for fully interchangeable batteries for the tools you need AND make sure they have the "run time" between charges that you need.
Yes.

And as stated get extra batteries.

Brand by brand - the battery will change for different models and different years. It is much more expensive to wait and attempt to purchase an extra battery later on. The battery may not be available later on or there may be aftermarket inferior batteries later on.

Get the batteries when the initial purchase is made.
TheProfessor is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-02-2021, 05:46 PM   #34
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Outdoorsman View Post
Keep in mind, not all batteries are created equal. In the case of Milwaukee be aware, all batteries are not interchangeable nor do they last as long on a full charge....

They have many... I have
M12 and M18 which are interchangeable and they also have a "MX Fuel" which I believe is not recommended for the "M" series tools. Within the "M" series I have M18 - CP2.0 and M18 - XC5.0.

My suggestion is simply this.... Look for fully interchangeable batteries for the tools you need AND make sure they have the "run time" between charges that you need.

The "free battery" offer is great as long as you have a number of batteries to complete an all day project.
Agreed—most kits I looked at identified the AH of the batteries that came with them. Big difference between 1.5 and 4AH batteries in terms of runtime.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2021, 07:43 AM   #35
LIforrelaxin
Senior Member
 
LIforrelaxin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Long Island, not that one, the one on Winnipesaukee
Posts: 2,813
Thanks: 1,011
Thanked 878 Times in 513 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
I can't remember which one I read it on, but a reviewer posted that his batteries went up in flames!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
So yes there was one singular review that said they had a smoky issue, I doubt very much that the unit went up in flames people like to exaggerate.....

This weekend I talked my dock project with one of the new batteries, with no issues what so ever..... 2-3 hours of drill and circular saw use off and on, and never need to pull out the second battery....

The Saw was running strong at at end even....
__________________
Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....
LIforrelaxin is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2021, 07:49 AM   #36
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin View Post
So yes there was one singular review that said they had a smoky issue, I doubt very much that the unit went up in flames people like to exaggerate.....

This weekend I talked my dock project with one of the new batteries, with no issues what so ever..... 2-3 hours of drill and circular saw use off and on, and never need to pull out the second battery....

The Saw was running strong at at end even....
Awesome to hear. That was with the batteries you linked to above?

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2021, 10:04 AM   #37
LIforrelaxin
Senior Member
 
LIforrelaxin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Long Island, not that one, the one on Winnipesaukee
Posts: 2,813
Thanks: 1,011
Thanked 878 Times in 513 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Awesome to hear. That was with the batteries you linked to above?

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Yes it was.... They are LI-ion, so as mentioned you just have to make sure you have the correct charger.... I didn't, so I had to order that as well....
__________________
Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....
LIforrelaxin is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2021, 10:43 AM   #38
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Awesome, thanks. I have had the Li-ion batteries and charger since just after buying the original kit. In fact, all the Ni-Cad batteries have long been put out to pasture!
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-04-2021, 11:48 PM   #39
Keel Holler
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2021
Posts: 13
Thanks: 2
Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Default

If money were no object, I would buy Festool. What’s interesting about Festool is how all the tools have been designed from the ground up to optimize dust extraction. Plus, I drool over the Systainer organization system!

But you can’t buy these tools locally (that I know of), and the cordless repertoire is modest. And more expensive. So, I have gone with Makita and been very happy.

The main benefit is the quality of the tools. They are sturdy, durable, solid, consistent, reliable. They’re thoughtfully designed and just work well. Looking at reviews and comparisons of individual tools, the Makitas almost always perform ably. Then, the selection. You can get just about any power tool. I have found the caulk gun surprisingly useful (yes, I admit, I’m a tool junkie.) Plus, it’s very convenient that I can use the same batteries in my leaf blower, shop vac, chainsaw, hedge trimmer, etc.

I own all the tools you mentioned, all Makita. I got the 10” sliding compound miter saw this year, and it’s awesome. I wasn’t sure it would be powerful enough- it is. Cut my new dock posts no problem. Plus, it’s so much quieter than the Craftsman it replaced. The recipro, circ saw, impact driver, hammer drill are all pretty standard, quality tools. The barrel handle jigsaw is a standout.

Before I moved to Makita, I had a Ryobi system. It was ok, but the tools were nothing special, and I got a couple bad batteries in a row, so I just felt I needed an upgrade. I strongly considered DeWalt because they (some anyway) are made in the USA, and the price is close to Makita, and they’re easy to get locally. But I wasn’t really impressed with the first few tools I got (which happened to be a circ saw and a palm sander), so ended up with Makita.

Now, I’m waiting for Makita to make a framing nailer so I can replace my crappy (by comparison) Metabo. And I’m waiting for a cordless belt sander...


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Keel Holler is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-05-2021, 09:14 AM   #40
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Keel Holler View Post
If money were no object, I would buy Festool. What’s interesting about Festool is how all the tools have been designed from the ground up to optimize dust extraction. Plus, I drool over the Systainer organization system!

But you can’t buy these tools locally (that I know of), and the cordless repertoire is modest. And more expensive. So, I have gone with Makita and been very happy.

The main benefit is the quality of the tools. They are sturdy, durable, solid, consistent, reliable. They’re thoughtfully designed and just work well. Looking at reviews and comparisons of individual tools, the Makitas almost always perform ably. Then, the selection. You can get just about any power tool. I have found the caulk gun surprisingly useful (yes, I admit, I’m a tool junkie.) Plus, it’s very convenient that I can use the same batteries in my leaf blower, shop vac, chainsaw, hedge trimmer, etc.

I own all the tools you mentioned, all Makita. I got the 10” sliding compound miter saw this year, and it’s awesome. I wasn’t sure it would be powerful enough- it is. Cut my new dock posts no problem. Plus, it’s so much quieter than the Craftsman it replaced. The recipro, circ saw, impact driver, hammer drill are all pretty standard, quality tools. The barrel handle jigsaw is a standout.

Before I moved to Makita, I had a Ryobi system. It was ok, but the tools were nothing special, and I got a couple bad batteries in a row, so I just felt I needed an upgrade. I strongly considered DeWalt because they (some anyway) are made in the USA, and the price is close to Makita, and they’re easy to get locally. But I wasn’t really impressed with the first few tools I got (which happened to be a circ saw and a palm sander), so ended up with Makita.

Now, I’m waiting for Makita to make a framing nailer so I can replace my crappy (by comparison) Metabo. And I’m waiting for a cordless belt sander...


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
I've had them all too and I prefer Makita over all the others. Although I do have a Milwaukee corded skill saw and Sawzall which I've had for over 30 years that are still going strong.
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-05-2021, 11:25 AM   #41
Pine Island Guy
Senior Member
 
Pine Island Guy's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: pine island of course!
Posts: 404
Thanks: 235
Thanked 233 Times in 111 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Keel Holler View Post
If money were no object, I would buy Festool. What’s interesting about Festool is how all the tools have been designed from the ground up to optimize dust extraction. Plus, I drool over the Systainer organization system!

But you can’t buy these tools locally (that I know of), and the cordless repertoire is modest. And more expensive.
Pretty sure that Middleton in Meredith has a good sampling of Festool products if you want to check them out... I drool over them, but it's one of those things you don't just buy one... they multiply in your workshop... and I just can't make that kind of commitment... yet!

I've been very happy with my DeWalt family of products (all cordless except for the palm sander), but use a variety of corded tools as well (Bosch router and jigsaw, PorterCable Sawzall, etc)

Enjoy the weekend all! -PIG
Pine Island Guy is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-05-2021, 11:52 AM   #42
WinnisquamZ
Senior Member
 
WinnisquamZ's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2016
Posts: 1,867
Thanks: 192
Thanked 590 Times in 395 Posts
Default

Most of the Festool products can be purchased on line. Gilford Home Center also sales a few. So does Sherwin Williams In Laconia. Big fan of the Vacuum system


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
WinnisquamZ is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-05-2021, 01:11 PM   #43
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Default

I prefer corded tools when ever possible but there are times when you just need the cordless, like at the lakefront if you don't have power there.

Sent from my SM-G991U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-05-2021, 03:40 PM   #44
TheProfessor
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,062
Thanks: 17
Thanked 325 Times in 198 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Keel Holler View Post
I strongly considered DeWalt because they (some anyway) are made in the USA
As stated above. DeWalt is owned by Black & Decker.

Most, if not all are now made in China . . . and lately . . . some have moved to Vietnam . . . as labor is cheaper . . . and there may or may not be any environmental effective laws for production.
TheProfessor is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-06-2021, 08:55 AM   #45
Biggd
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Waltham Ma./Meredith NH
Posts: 3,733
Thanks: 1,952
Thanked 1,068 Times in 673 Posts
Default

And B&D makes crap
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheProfessor View Post
As stated above. DeWalt is owned by Black & Decker.

Most, if not all are now made in China . . . and lately . . . some have moved to Vietnam . . . as labor is cheaper . . . and there may or may not be any environmental effective laws for production.
Sent from my SM-G991U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Biggd is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-06-2021, 09:04 AM   #46
Garcia
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 573
Thanks: 128
Thanked 258 Times in 161 Posts
Default storing batteries

What do people do with batteries over the winter - leave them at the summer place where they are subject to cold or bring them home?
Garcia is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-06-2021, 09:28 AM   #47
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Bring them home and keep them in my basement, charging every month.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-06-2021, 10:17 AM   #48
Garcia
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 573
Thanks: 128
Thanked 258 Times in 161 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by thinkxingu View Post
Bring them home and keep them in my basement, charging every month.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Thanks. That's what i do with most of mine but there are some that have been on the island for years with seemingly no negative side effects.
Garcia is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-06-2021, 10:41 AM   #49
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Garcia View Post
Thanks. That's what i do with most of mine but there are some that have been on the island for years with seemingly no negative side effects.
Li-Ion batteries have lasted a lonnng time for me, even when treated poorly. NiMH and NiCads have been mostly horrible if not used/kept charged or let you discharge too far.

The key with cordless tool batteries is really usage—the old use-it-or-lose-it thing.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-12-2021, 06:44 PM   #50
Keel Holler
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2021
Posts: 13
Thanks: 2
Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Default

I bring my batteries home in winter. But that’s mostly because I work on my other home then.

Letting these batteries freeze is hit or miss, so far as I can tell. I’ve had some freeze and be fine; others freeze and die. Or maybe like thinkxingu says it’s just not being used that kills them.

Anyway, they’re not that big, I have chargers both places & its easy enough to just grab all the batteries in the fall.


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app
Keel Holler is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-14-2021, 06:27 AM   #51
LIforrelaxin
Senior Member
 
LIforrelaxin's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Long Island, not that one, the one on Winnipesaukee
Posts: 2,813
Thanks: 1,011
Thanked 878 Times in 513 Posts
Default

So I was reading some of the posts here, about leaving batteries at the lake in the winter etc......

My input is don't have power tools that you leave at the lake, I use my cordless tools all the time, they live in my truck.... I don't worry about regular charging of batteries.... Use em and charge them.... as someone already said here.... if you aren't using them enough it is time for some more projects.....
__________________
Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....
LIforrelaxin is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to LIforrelaxin For This Useful Post:
ApS (06-14-2021)
Old 07-28-2021, 05:18 AM   #52
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

If anyone is interested in 18V Hitachi or DeWalt tools, message me—I'll be selling what I have to replace with...something soon!

Hitachi: 2 Li-Ion batteries that still hold pretty good charge, charger, drill, hammer drill, impact driver, two reciprocating saws, circular saw, light.

DeWalt: 4 NiMH batteries that are just ok, three chargers, two drills, impact driver, angle drill, circular saw, reciprocating saw.

All are in great and perfectly functional shape.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-28-2021, 01:12 PM   #53
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Hitachi pending pickup.
DeWalt still available at the moment.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-28-2021, 02:27 PM   #54
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Tools sold!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-29-2021, 07:34 AM   #55
thinkxingu
Senior Member
 
thinkxingu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,939
Thanks: 1,152
Thanked 1,959 Times in 1,210 Posts
Default

Scratch that, DeWalt kit still up for sale!

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
thinkxingu is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Bookmarks

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is On

Forum Jump


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 11:18 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.

This page was generated in 0.40828 seconds