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Impact Driver

2K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  dfletcher 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I'm in the market for an impact driver. I currently own DeWalt 18v tools with plenty of spare batteries. But I don't like the weight because of the batteries. I no longer make a living with my tools so the advantage the 18v gives in duration power is no longer a factor. I've always had good luck with DeWalt tools.

I'm leaning towards the 12v line because of the reduced weight and therefore less fatigue. For the kind of work I do, I think I should be able to get enough screws driven on a single charge, but I'm only guessing. I like the advantage of the impact driver as opposed to the straight drill/driver.

I liked the DeWalt 12v for the weight and balance. But it's a bit pricey.

I like the price of the Milwaukee 12v (on sale for $99 at HD) but I don't like the balance.

Anybody out there have any experience with these or recommendations on these or others?

Thanks in advance for your insight!
 
#3 ·
Hello there Dave. I've just bought the new DeWalt 12V Drill/Driver and Impact combo 3 weeks ago. So far so good. I also have the Bosch 12v impact. I also had the opportunity to try out the new Makita 12V impact - my co-worker boughjt one when they came out. He's a big Makita fan and well, I'm a big DeWalt fan. I can't really give a complete review of the 12V DeWalt because I've only used it for about 2 weeks on the job. I will try to give a review later on as I put it through it's paces. But one thing I'm willing to admit, I like the handle/grip on the Makita better. It feel it fits my hand better. The Dewalt, I kinda feel that handle/grip is bit too small, probably better for those with smaller hands. I will post pictures later tonight.
 
#4 ·
I really like the new Lithium Ion impact driver from DeWalt in the MAX product line. It have one that was included as part of a combo pack that included a traditional drill along with it. I went with a 12V because I don't really need the additional power of an 18V, and man, can that thing drive some screws. It is so light, it is really a treat to use.
 
#5 ·
I studied this choice back in the summer and finally decided to buy a Millwaukee combo kit when they had the 18volt Li ion drill/driver bundled with a free impact driver. I paid $199 for the set. I needed a new drill anyway so the choice made sense for me. I personally don't like the fat handles and top heavy balance of the compact 12volt tools that put the batteries inside the grip..

If I had not needed a 1/2" drill also, I think I would have really looked seriously at the Hitachi 9.6volt or the 12volt impact drivers. They have had good reviews and I really like the way they feel in your hand.

At any rate, I think the Millwaukee impact driver can be bought for around $100 alone, and I can't say anything bad about mine, other than it's a little heavy and not as comfortable to hold as the Hitachi. They all probably come from the same factory, including DeWalt.
 
#6 ·
I know from experience that both the Makita and the Hitachi are beasts, at any voltage. Makita seems to be lighter and better balanced, but the hitachi just keeps going and going, still have decent weight and balance.

In your shoes, Iwould probably go Makita, though.
 
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