Synopsis: Technology has changed cordless drills for the better, especially in terms of power, size, and cost. This tool review looks at 14.4v drill drivers, an appropriate size for most woodworking jobs. Models were evaluated on battery stamina, torque, speed settings, chuck gripping power, and chuck runout. In addition, the test lab at Consumers Union put each drill-driver through a series of tests to measure overall power. Drills tested included the Black & Decker FireStorm, Delta ShopMaster, Hitachi, Ryobi, Skil, Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Porter-Cable, Ridgid, and Sears Craftsman.

I bought my first cordless drill in the mid-1980s thinking it would be great for those outdoor projects where no electricity was available. It quickly exceeded my expectations and became one of the handiest tools in my shop. At the same time, cordless drills had a profound effect on the portable power-tool industry, forging the way for many cordless tools to come.

Technology has changed cordless tools for the better since my first 9.6v Makita, especially in the areas of power, size, and cost. Manufacturers say that sales of 14.4v drill-drivers are outpacing lower-voltage models because they have more power and stamina than a corded drill and are reasonably lightweight and compact, making them appropriately sized for most woodworking tasks.

I spent a few weeks in my shop drilling, driving, and comparing the features and ergonomics of a dozen 14.4v drilldrivers from several major manufacturers. Two clear categories emerged. For just less than $100, you can get a tool that will power through common drilling and driving tasks but that lacks stamina and heavy-duty parts. The drill-drivers in this category include those from Black & Decker, Delta, Hitachi, Ryobi, and Skil. Then there are the drill-drivers that cost closer to $200. These beefier tools provide more power and stamina than you need for most tasks in a woodshop. The manufacturers of the higherpriced drill-drivers I tested are Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Porter-Cable, Ridgid, and Sears. (For more on the specs and performance of each tool, see the chart on pp. 46-47.)

Stamina will cost you

The first characteristic I looked at was stamina, which determines how long you can use a drill-driver before you need to swap its battery. While each tool came with two batteries, there still is a benefit to getting more out of each charge. I conditioned all of the batteries following manufacturerrecommended procedures. Each battery went through five charge/recharge cycles to achieve peak power.

From Fine Woodworking #174

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