Replies

1. 
   sleepydad | Apr 04, 2008 06:08pm | #1

   http://www.amazon.com/Makita-BDF452HW-18-Volt-Compact-Lithium-Ion/dp/B000K6ILDW/ref=pd_bbs_8?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1207321337&sr=8-8

   My wife purchased one of these for me last year.  I would have never spent that much but I have come to love this drill.  It’s my go to drill for almost everything now.

   I like the little LED light.  Thought it was silly at first but when doing slides and cabinet carcass work it's nice to have.

   Plenty of power and runtime.  Very light in weight also nice.

   I did have an issue with a battery.  Was under warranty and got it replaced for free and have no other issues in regards to batteries.   

    

1. 
   willy | Apr 04, 2008 09:06pm | #2

   ty for your suggestion - - I assume you are states side and i'm north of the 49th - - I could add about $60 to $80 to that for import entry, not including our usual taxes. I check out local stores for that make.- Did it come with one or two batteries.

1. 
   sleepydad | Apr 04, 2008 09:16pm | #3

   yes 2 batts<!----><!----><!---->

   make sure you get the 3 amp hour batts.  they also sell some with 1.5 amp hours those are crap.<!----><!---->

   you might want to look at other 18v from other manufactures... I know they are all Copying this drill now... as far as features.  you might be able to get something cheaper from dewalt, ... the list goes on and on...<!----><!---->

   I still like the makita it's a nice tool.<!----><!---->

   There are so many drills on the market it makes your head spin; everybody has a favorite. I'm surprised there have not been a million people chiming in on this one?<!----><!---->

   <!----> <!---->

2. 
   blewcrowe | Apr 07, 2008 08:09pm | #4

   While I think most peeps become happy about what they have, I've had several and I kinda like the balance of the Milwaukee.

3. 
   terryb | Apr 14, 2008 11:44pm | #5

   I really like the Makita but when I buy one, it'll be a Ridgid. Good tools with a lifetime warranty  - on batteries too. Batteries are quite expensive to replace.

4. 
   scooter1 | Apr 15, 2008 03:34am | #6

   Voltman got me 18v batteries, newly rebuilt for $35 with free shipping.

   http://www.voltmanbatteries.com/batteryrebuilds.htm

   Regards,

   Scooter

   "I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow." WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1934

1. 
   Tinkerer3 | Apr 16, 2008 06:40am | #9

   Wow, I just paid $80 to fix my PC 19.2 volt drill.  Your source gives the price of $35 for batteries for your drill.  The Battery for my Drill is $120 and I need two of them.  That is a cool $300 total.  Doubt if the drill is worth that much to me

   Edited 4/15/2008 11:41 pm ET by Tinkerer3

5. 
   [email protected] | Apr 15, 2008 04:46am | #7

   I have Dewalts and like them.  One of the things to check on when you are making the purchase is what other tools does the manufacturer have that use the same battery.  I've got eight different Dewalt 18-volt tools. 

   The new Dewalt Lithium Ion batteries will retrofit the old Dewalt tools, and they make a host of 18-volt tools, from lights to vacuum cleaners.  All of which can be bought off eBay as bare tools. 

   If I hadn't gotten a great deal on the impact driver and hammer drill kit on close out at Lowers, I would have bought a Bosch set, as the plane they have would be really handy for doing doors. 

   If possible, go somewhere that has a pretty broad line of brands, and feel the heft and balance of the drills.  Some are lots easier to hold for extended periods. 

1. 
   willy | Apr 15, 2008 05:15pm | #8

   ty, Jigs. I appreciate your critique.
   w