Before you opt for the highest-priced and voltage cordless drill, consider these tips.
Assess the task
First, decide what you really need to accomplish.
For light to medium drilling/driving tasks, smaller 12-volt cordless drills are much easier to lug around and they average several pounds less in weight than 18-volt models. With today’s lithium-ion technology, a good charger and two batteries, the average cabin owner would be hard-pressed to push a simple 12-volt drill past its capabilities.
However, if your cabin is off the grid or you have heavy-duty tasks to tackle, you may want to ramp up. Larger, 18- to 20-volt drivers weigh more because higher voltage requires heavier electrical components. So, they are not just heavier and more powerful, but can also be more durable.
Go variable
Finally, make sure you purchase a drill with variable-speed drive. While higher speed settings and torque clutches are useful, you’ll find that delicate tasks like countersinking a drywall screw are best accomplished with a variable-speed drive and a light touch.
Assess the task
First, decide what you really need to accomplish.
For light to medium drilling/driving tasks, smaller 12-volt cordless drills are much easier to lug around and they average several pounds less in weight than 18-volt models. With today’s lithium-ion technology, a good charger and two batteries, the average cabin owner would be hard-pressed to push a simple 12-volt drill past its capabilities.
However, if your cabin is off the grid or you have heavy-duty tasks to tackle, you may want to ramp up. Larger, 18- to 20-volt drivers weigh more because higher voltage requires heavier electrical components. So, they are not just heavier and more powerful, but can also be more durable.
Go variable
Finally, make sure you purchase a drill with variable-speed drive. While higher speed settings and torque clutches are useful, you’ll find that delicate tasks like countersinking a drywall screw are best accomplished with a variable-speed drive and a light touch.
What about modular?
Modular tools can be a useful option. Craftsman has developed a Bolt-On system; a myriad of power tool heads snap into a universal drill body (see photo, left).
Other manufacturers offer combo kits – a set of tools that accommodate a universal battery. DeWalt, for instance, offers a 20V kit with a reciprocating saw and impact driver.
If you choose a multitool cordless set, however, be warned that it takes more voltage and torque to saw a piece of wood or hammer-drill through cement than it does to sink a sharp screw in soft wood. If you need a functional multitool for a serious construction project, choose one of the premier brands in a high-voltage capacity, and make sure you purchase two batteries. (For more tips on getting the most out of your lithium-ion batteries, click here.) Having a ½-inch chuck (drill bit holder), vs. the more standard ?-inch chuck, also increases the versatility and functionality of a high-voltage cordless drill.
Modular tools can be a useful option. Craftsman has developed a Bolt-On system; a myriad of power tool heads snap into a universal drill body (see photo, left).
Other manufacturers offer combo kits – a set of tools that accommodate a universal battery. DeWalt, for instance, offers a 20V kit with a reciprocating saw and impact driver.
If you choose a multitool cordless set, however, be warned that it takes more voltage and torque to saw a piece of wood or hammer-drill through cement than it does to sink a sharp screw in soft wood. If you need a functional multitool for a serious construction project, choose one of the premier brands in a high-voltage capacity, and make sure you purchase two batteries. (For more tips on getting the most out of your lithium-ion batteries, click here.) Having a ½-inch chuck (drill bit holder), vs. the more standard ?-inch chuck, also increases the versatility and functionality of a high-voltage cordless drill.
