Cordless Power Tools
How did our forefathers ever get along without cordless power tools?
In recent years advancements have been made in battery life, charging
time, ergonomics, and motor technology. In light of these improvements,
maybe it’s time to retire your old yellow tools.
With
the vast selection available in cordless tools it can be difficult to
select the best tools for your budget and needs. A cordless drill,
reciprocating saw, and circular saw can be a rough framing carpenters valued ally.
Cordless drills are indispensable when installing patio and sliding glass doors.
Cordless circular saws are handy when you are framing or sheathing a roof and don’t want an electrical cord in the way on the roof.
Cordless reciprocating saws are available to fix your mistakes in a stylish and timely manner.
Job site radios are now available with remote control, AM, FM, CD players, MP3 plug in’s, extra 110 volt plug in’s, and self contained battery chargers. My favorite one is the Bosch PB360D Deluxe Power Box Jobsite Radio
Selecting Cordless Tools
There are several important factors to consider when purchasing cordless tools.
Color of the battery operated tools can tell you where the tool was built. Some of the better known colors are yellow made in Mexico, red made in Czech Republic, and blue
made in Switzerland. Since there is no way to compare a cordless drill
and a watch, comparing a Chinese and Swiss watch should help get my
message across.
Torque is a measurement of how hard the tool can turn or twist. The higher the torque rating the better the tool.
Weight
of the cordless power tool can tell you how well the tool is made.
Last time I checked steel gears were quite a bit heavier and stronger
than plastic gears.
Battery strength is the single most important factor to consider when buying cordless power tools.
- Higher voltage batteries are not always the best, amperage hours and battery type should also be considered.
- Amp/hr
is what determines how long a battery will last. Low cost cordless
tools usually come with 1.4 amp/hr batteries and I will guarantee you
will be disappointed. The 2.4 amp/hr batteries come standard with most
mid range priced tools and are adequate for most users. 3.0 amp/hr
batteries are available for the more demanding and hard core tool
users, they also carry a price tag to match.
- Nickel-Cadmium batteries are the most common in cordless power tools and adequate for most people.
- Lithium-Ion batteries are the best and carry a price tag to reflect this.
Cordless Combo Kits
Most cordless tool manufacturers
sell combo kits. These kits can contain anywhere from two to nine
assorted cordless tools. While they can seem very expensive, a huge
savings can usually be realized by purchasing a combo kit as opposed to
buying each individual tool.
Makita Cordless Tools
Makita is one of the premier builders of power tools in the world and
has a great reputation for quality and durability. Over the years I
have owned several Makita cordless tools and have no complaints. I currently own and use the Makita LXFD01CW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-Inch Driver-Drill Kit. I am impressed with the light weight and power that are normally only available in a much heavier drill.
Dewalt Cordless Tools
Dewalt has been supplying great cordless tools to professionals
since the technology became available. I’m not particularly fond of
their tools but I know many people who are.
Bosch Cordless Tools
Bosch is my favorite brand of cordless tools, they are made by the
Swiss and their quality and durability shine through for years. I
currently own and use the Bosch CPK42-36 36-Volt 4 Tool Litheon Cordless Combo Kit. These cordless power tools have completed many tasks that would have sucked the life blood out of my old yellow ones.
Links to Related Carpentry Pro Framer Pages
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