Skil is a new ToolGuyd sponsor, and I have been going through my backlog of user requests to see which tools would potentially fit into my busy spring schedule. In checking the price of a tool a reader asked about, I came across quite the deal on a Skil cordless grinder kit.

Over at Amazon, they have a Skil 20V (Max) cordless angle grinder KIT priced at $70. That couldn’t be correct – right? Some Skil dealers have this kit, model AG290202, priced at $90, but it’s indeed $70 at Amazon.

(According to online price trackers, the price dropped to $70 from $85.50, and it was $90 for a weeks before that.)

With this kit you get the 4-1/2″ angle grinder, a charger, and 2.0Ah PWRcore 20 Li-ion battery.

The bare tool by itself is priced at $59, and so for $11 more, you get a battery and charger. Seems like a great deal to me

For the user that only needs to do a little bit of metalwork, such as cutting or grinding, this is an excellent price. To be fair, a 2.0Ah battery won’t provide extended runtime on a tool like this, but it’s enough for quicker or smaller tasks. If you need more runtime, you’d be better suited with a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery.

One thing to note is that this grinder has a lock-on switch. Personally, I prefer paddle switches, but a lot of users prefer lock-on switches.

The Skil angle grinder has a tool-free adjustable guard, spindle lock for easier wheel changes, 3-position side handle, soft-start motor, and onboard wrench storage.

If you want a more powerful option, Skil also has a brushless model.

Price: $70

Buy Now via Amazon
See Also: Brushless Kit

My experiences with Skil’s cordless power tools have been quite positive so far – here’s my review of the Skil 12V brushless drill.

If you have any Skil cordless requests, please let me know. So far I have a couple of reader requests I’m working on, including a review of their digital router.

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A couple of years ago, Makita came out with a long-sleeved cooling jacket, which featured fans that draw hear away from the wearer. Now, they’ve come out a new cooling vest, model FV214DZ.

Not much information is available right now, but enough to pique my interest.

To start off, this is not Makita’s first expansion since their first cordless cooling jacket, there are other models, including full vests. This model is a more lightweight vest, for lack of a better way of putting it. It’s sleeveless, and with cutouts in the front panels as well.

The new Makita cooling vest secures via two plastic buckles. There are zippered pockets on both sides, top and bottom – up near the shoulders and down by the mid-torso.

At the rear, two low-profile fans draw air at a flow rate of (up to?) 2.7 cubic meters per minute. The noise level is said to be 40 dB(A). The fans are both powered by brushless motors.

There are two colors right now, a light grey and blue.

It looks like there are mesh panels up around the neck collar and below the armpits, with air pushed through by the fans positioned at the wearer’s lower back on both sides.

I would assume the fan works in a similar manner as the inflating cooling vest, where it pushes air throughout the inner panels, rather than pulling it out.

Aside from the interesting design and shape of the vest, I found myself impressed with all the different power options. It appears that the vest can be powered using a proprietary Li-ion battery pack, a 10.8V (12V Max) battery adapter and power source, as well as a 14.4V/18V adapter. At this time, it doesn’t look like there is any 40V Max XGT power source (yet?).

The slim Li-ion battery pack has a USB C port and can also be used as a power bank to charge electronic devices.

When I’ve seen images or videos of Makita’s cooling jacket over the years, it was always nothing short of amusing. With the full-sleeved jacket inflated during use, wearers comically look a lot like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.

his isn’t Makita’s first cooling vest – they also have a full vest option. But compared to their cordless fan jackets and full-body cooling vest, this new model is much closer to what I would imagine cordless battery-powered cooling workwear looks like.

Would you use a cooling vest to combat summertime back sweat?

I have never seen any Makita heating or cooling workwear products in person. Here in the USA they are way behind competitors with respect to heated gear, and it’s unclear what types of users the new cooling vest was designed for, but this still seems like an interesting concept.

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I haven’t posted about Greenworks very much over the years. To me, Greenworks seems like like an entry-level outdoor power tools brand, and I just haven’t paid much attention to what they were doing.

Now, Greenworks has a new 24V Max cordless power tool line, and equipped with brushless motor technology. I’ve seen some hype, and so I decided to take a closer look after a reader asked for my take on “lower rung” cordless tool brands.

Let’s take a look at Greenworks’ new 24V Max brushless drill and impact driver combo kit. This is always a good way to learn more about a brand’s general market position.

This kit comes with a drill, impact driver, slide-on charger, (2) 1.5Ah batteries, tool bag, and belt clips. It retails for $190.

My first impression is that they went a little skimpy on the batteries and charger. At this price point, I would expected a full-size charger and 2.0Ah batteries.

The Greenworks 24V Max cordless drill doesn’t look anything special, but it also doesn’t have any glaring “gotchas.”

Greenworks emphasizes that this drill delivers 2X more torque. Compared to…?

Looking their website, there are no torque specs. They mention it has a 1/2″ keyless ratcheting chuck, 2-speed gearbox, and 18 position clutch. These are all common features nowadays. What’s the speed? What’s the torque?

Ah, here we go… 2000… lumens? Did they really put 2000 lumen emitters in a close-up work power tool? 100 or even 50 lumens would be more than enough.

Digging deeper, I found what I was looking on retailers’ product pages. Both Amazon and Home Depot have some more specs.

2-speed gearbox (0-380, 0-450 RPM), 310 in.-lbs. of torque.

“2X MORE TORQUE” and the drill only delivers 310 lbs of max torque.

They equate the 18 position torque clutch with “precision control for any project.”

Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt and assume that the 0-450 RPM spec is really supposed to say 0-1450 RPM. You’re not driving larger or longer fasteners into “dense hardwood” with those speeds and 310 in-lbs max torque.

For most cordless drills and motors in general, you get the greatest torque deliver in the lower speed range. If you need to be in the lower speed mode, given as 0-380 RPM, to achieve that max torque, there are so many faster and higher performing drills on the market, and for less money.

Let’s take a break and look at Greenworks’ 24V Max battery. Cool, it has a built-in USB port, similar to many of Skil’s PWRCore cordless power tool batteries.

Greenworks provide a handy chart as to how many times their fully charged 24V Max 1.5Ah battery can recharge popular devices.

As a reminder, 24V Max battery packs operate at 21.6V nominally, something Greenworks doesn’t clarify on their website or product descriptions anyway. But, they show a cutaway of their battery pack and it has 6 Li-ion cells, so that’s usually 3.6V x 6 = 21.6V nominally.

Greenworks’ retail product descriptions say the battery pack doubles as a 9000 mAh power bank. That’s just another way of saying 9Ah.

That 9Ah or 9000mAh power bank capacity rating is true for a 3.6V battery cell, if you add them all up: 3.6V x 1.5Ah x 6 = 9Ah.

I suppose it’s fair to describe this battery as a 9000mAh power bank. I’ll give Greenworks a pass on this.

Let’s take a look at the Greenworks 24V Max cordless impact driver. It has a brushless motor, and Greenworks also described it as delivering “2X more torque.”

It has a 3-setting speed control, and Greenworks provides these speed and torque ratings: 1450 RPM, 2,666 in-lbs max torque.

That… doesn’t sound right to me. Did they reverse the numbers?

Here are specs for a leading brand’s $99 impact driver promo kit: 1500 in-lbs max torque, 0-2800 RPM, 0-3600 IPM.

Specifically, here is as it appears on the retailers’ product pages:

Impact Driver : 1/4 in. hex quick release coupler, electronic variable-speed control (3 speed), (0-380, 0-450 RPM) and 2,666-in-lbs. of torque

I have serious doubts believing that Greenworks’ cordless impact driver delivers 2666 in-lbs of max torque, even with a 24V Max battery power source and brushless motor.

Additionally, in an impact driver, max torque is dependent on speed and the anvil impact rate. 1450 RPM and 2666 in-lbs max torque? This is not possible.

Okay, so maybe the numbers are switched around – 2666 RPM and 1450 in-max torque are more believable.

There’s the “2X more” marketing claims again.

No. If this truly delivered 2666 in-lbs max torque, then yes, I would agree that it delivers 2X more torque than some other models. But I don’t believe it. And if it delivers 1450 in-lbs max torque, which is about average for entry-level models these that aren’t “subcompact” in size, I can’t imagine which 18V or 24V Max models they’re comparing it to.

I did some searching, and I cannot find any 18V-sized cordless impact driver, even an older model, that delivers less than 1/2 the max torque spec I am assuming is true here.

One more thing – QUIET OPERATION. *face palm* – sure, it’s quiet until you actually use it.

Here’s one of the few user reviews on Amazon:

I was just doing normal drilling stuff into wood, and during the first use the drill started smoking and then keep cutting out.

With the drill spec’ed at 310 in-lbs max torque, I’m not surprised by this. Cordless power tool motors can start smoking when their motors overheat and the enamel insulation around their windings cannot cool off quick enough – Makita’s first 18V brushless drill did this too.

There are a couple of things that struck my interest, such as the USB power bank functionality, but the execution seems to be a complete mess.

I steered clear of Greenworks products for a couple of years, and I’ll likely steer clear of their 24V Max cordless power tools as well. It’s a shame – it looks like they have a couple of good ingredients here, but the presentation makes the dish look completely unappetizing.

Price: $187-190

Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via Home Depot

Have any of you had positive experiences with Greenworks’ cordless power tools?

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April 2021: CAT power tools launched this year in South Africa, exclusively through Vermont Sales. There was a subsequent announcement discussing that the DX12 hammer drill be also be available at Makro stores.

July 2020: The original announcement follows, with minimal updates to reflect the updated information.

CAT, which you’ll know from their heavy construction equipment and occasional licensed tool-related products, revealed a new line of cordless power tools in July 2020, when this post was first published.

They newly announced CAT cordless power tools were said to feature brushless motors, with claims of 10X longer motor life, 25% more power, and 50% more runtime.

There was an empty landing page at Lowe’s, and an international website with images and specs of the new tools. (This might be a stretch, but do you think that Lowe’s was shopping for a new cordless system and the FLEX 24V Max system won out over CAT?)

The CAT 18V cordless power tools lineup was shown to be launching with a 2Ah Li-ion battery, 4Ah Li-ion battery, or 5ah GRAPHENE battery.

CAT says this about their new graphene battery:

Graphene* polymer lithium battery

• On-board battery capacity indicator
• Instant charging to full in 18min
• High max discharge current service tool better
• keep cool pack for continuous working
• Guaranteed 5 times longer cycle life
• Tough work in extreme low temperature

An 18 minute full charge time? That’s not “instant” as they say, but it’s still incredibly impressive. (Note, in other places CAT Power Tools says the full charging time is 20 minutes.)

But what’s this graphene stuff all about?

Scientifically, graphene is a single layer of carbon arranged in a hexagonal lattice, and it has some unique properties. There is a lot of research going on right now, with things like graphene nanotubes.

But, you can also create graphene by sticking a piece of Scotch tape to a block of graphite (basically pencil lead material) and peeling it off gently.

Graphene is a special and exotic material, but it can also be rather basic. Think about diamonds, and how you can have 1 carat jewelry that costs thousands of dollars, or some cheap industrial diamond particle abrasives.

In this graphic, there’s an asterisk with fine print:

Graphene polymer is integrated into the cathode of battery cells to get enhanced performance of battery.

There’s also a bullet point that says:

• Graphene’s low resistance keeps cells cooler under heavy load.

It seems there’s some graphene used in the cathode (-) end of the battery cells – at the least. Looking at some scientific paper abstracts that go back to at least 2013, graphene improves electron conductivity of lithium ion battery cathode materials.

Generally, higher conductivity means lower resistance, which means less heat.

But, is this same technology available to other brands? What’s the likelihood that CAT with their nascent cordless power tool line, has access to special tech or Li-ion battery cell tech that other brands are locked out of?

Well, CAT does say that theirs are the “World’s First Graphene battery on power tools.” But this could just mean the battery cell contact is graphene-coated.

In other words, I’m not impressed – I see this as flashy marketing, and it’ll take more information to convince me otherwise. The fast charging rate seems like a big deal, but the CAT cordless power tool lineup is starting to take on an “as seen on TV” feel.

CAT’s new 18V cordless power tool system is launching with quite the selection of tools, including:

• Drills
• Angle grinders
• Rotary hammer
• Circular saws
• Planer
• Impact driver
• Radio
• Sanders
• Lights
• Combo kits
• Batteries
• Chargers

This is all part of CAT’s new “1 for All” platform.

Here, you can see that there will be a very broad selection of cordless power tools included in the 18V system. In addition to “core” tools, namely drills, an impact driver, circular and reciprocating saws, there will also be other staples such as an oscillating multi-tool, grinder, jig saw, planer, sander, and more.

But, there are also some corded power tools, such as a heat gun and a polisher.

And also new 12V (Max?) cordless power tools.

So, 1 For All, as long as you stay within the 18V system? Or is that meant to be one cordless power tool system for all types of users?

The new CAT brushless power tools have a mostly matte black color scheme, with dark red and of course CAT-yellow accents.

Spec-wise, the new CAT brushless power tools look to be competitive.

If I had to guess, I’d say they are going to be marketed towards DIYers at mid-level pricing. The new CAT 18V cordless circular saw, for example, looks to be positioned between Ryobi and Kobalt or Ridgid in design.

What’s interesting is that CAT revealed so many different cordless power tools all at once as part of an initial launch wave.

And then there are even more – a corded woodworking router, tile cutter, and cut off saw.

Some have theorized that CAT partnered with Positec for these new cordless power tools.

Read this if you’re not familiar with the name.

Positec is the company behind Rockwell and Worx power tools, and they have also partnered with (Sears) Craftsman in the past, making quite a few of their power tools as well.

Update: It is confirmed that Positec is the manufacturer behind these tools.

The new CAT cordless oscillating multi-tool, at the least, bears a family resemblance to Positec’s Rockwell-specific blade change mechanism.

There are only so many companies that are capable of developing this many tools, or at least only so many companies that could do so competently, and Positec is one of them.

When the CAT tools were first revealed to the world, it was unclear as to when or even where these CAT cordless power tools will be sold. It’s possible they might someday be released in the USA, but it’s still unknown at this time.

It is also possible that we will see some of these innovations come to Positec’s Rockwell or Worx brands.

Here are some model numbers for the new CAT power tools:

CAT Cordless Drills

• DX11 drill/driver
• DX12 hammer drill
• DX13 higher powered hammer drill
• DX12K hammer drill and impact driver combo kit
• DX14 12V drill
• DX15 12V impact drill (hammer drill)
• DX17 corded hammer drill
• DX16 higher powered corded hammer drill

The CAT 12V drills don’t seem to feature brushless motors.

CAT Fastening Tools

• DX71 18V 3-speed impact driver

CAT Rotary Hammers

• DX21 18V rotary hammer
• DX26 corded rotary hammer
• DX27 higher powered rotary hammer
• DX28 demolition hammer

CAT Grinders

• DX31B 18V angle grinder
• DX37 750W 115mm/125mm angle grinder
• DX371 750W 115mm/125mm angle grinder
• DX372 750W 100mm angle grinder
• DX36 1200W 125mm angle grinder
• DX35 2350W 230mm angle grinder
• DX351 2350W 230mm angle grinder
• DX352 2350W 180mm angle grinder

CAT Saws and Cutting Tools

• DX53B 18V circular saw
• DX59 1400W circular saw
• DX56 1800W circular saw
• DX51B 18V cordless jig saw
• DX57 750W 26mm jig saw
• DX54 750W 20mm jig saw
• DX52B 18V cordless reciprocating saw
• DX58 1200W reciprocating saw
• DX89 2100W router
• DX55 110mm tile cutter
• DX519 355mm cut off saw

CAT Material Removal Tools

• DX81B 18V cordless planer
• DX86 900W planer
• DX87 2000W heat gun
• DX38 180mm polisher

CAT Cordless Worklights and Radios

• DX62B 18V jobsite light
• DX61B 18V Bluetooth radio

CAT Sanders

• DX42B 18V orbital rotary sander
• DX46 125mm rotary sander
• DX461 125mm rotary sander
• DX47 1/4 sheet palm sander
• DX471 1/4 sheet palm sander
• DX45 1/3 sheet sander
• DX44 1/2 sheet sander
• DX48 belt sander

CAT Oscillating Multi-Tools

• DX41B 18V brushless multi-tool
• DX49 350W multi-tool

CAT Cordless Power Tool Batteries and Chargers

• DXB2 2.0Ah battery
• DXB4 4.0Ah battery
• DXB5 5.0Ah Graphene battery
• DXC4 18V 4A charger
• DXC15 15A charger

The DXC15 is a 15A battery charger (whoa!), and CAT Power Tools says it can charge the 5Ah Graphene battery to 80% in 15 minutes and full charge in 20.

When paired with the other batteries, the DXC15 will recharge the 2.0Ah or 4.0Ah batteries in 30 minutes. It charges the 2.0Ah battery at a 4A rate, the 4.0Ah battery at an 8A rate, and the 5.0Ah Graphene battery at a 15A rate.

The DXC4 charger can fully charge the 2.0Ah battery in 35 minutes, or the 4.0Ah battery in 68 minutes.

Oh, There’s More – CAT Slide Lock Tool Boxes

As if an entire new line of corded and cordless power tools wasn’t enough, there are also new Slide Lock tool boxes and power tool accessory cases.

Discussion

There was a lot of first-glance marketing information and details for the tools, but no press release, media information, or other such resources to put the new CAT power tools into context. I still haven’t learned much, other than the lineup launched in South Africa in 2021.

The chargers are labeled “DX: PRO,” and while some of the tools certainly have pro-level cordless power tool specs, I’m not convinced they’re aiming to compete with current market leaders such as Dewalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, or Makita.

There’s no mention of warranty, pricing, or availability.

“Let’s Do the Work,” “1 For All,” and “Graphene” don’t quite provide much context either.

The new CAT cordless power tools don’t look to be entry-level, as they sport more premium features and specs. The brushless reciprocating saw, for example, has an oscillating mode, rafter hook, and  pivot foot plate adjustment. The CAT cordless circular saw has a magnesium shoe and aluminum blade guard.

I’m now getting the feeling that the new CAT power tools might be aimed at valued-minded pros, and perhaps DIYers with greater demands and higher budgets, but some of these tools do look to be very serious offerings.

At first glance, there was definitely an oh, more licensed CAT products feel to this, with the CAT and Caterpillar brand seemingly slapped onto a limited selection of tools. But with a deeper look, that isn’t the case at all.

This isn’t like their metal tool box.

Or work boots.

Or even the CAT Android phone.

This looks to be a major push. Where else will these tools end up – North America, Europe, Asia – or will they only be available in South Africa? All of the above?

Where is there room for CAT-branded corded and cordless power tools, tool boxes, and power tool accessories?

If they do launch in the USA, will the CAT tool brand follow “as seen on TV” marketing that seems to have made Worx and Rockwell flagship products so successful? Will they be embraced by a brick & mortar big box retailer, and if so which one?

Everyone knows the CAT and Caterpillar brand from their heavy construction equipment. But can this sell their tools?

Despite some wrinkling of the nose at the marketing language and claims, such as “Graphene batteries!!”, CAT’s introductory selection is nothing to sneeze at. This must have taken a lot of work to get off the ground, and on paper, they made the right calls to get the attention of more discerning users.

If CAT does launch these tools here, expect for there to be a lot of marketing hype – especially if the line is made and promoted by Positec. But, like other Positec tools, quite a bit of that hype will be deserved.

At first glance, I couldn’t help but question if and why the world needed a line of CAT-branded cordless power tools. But, a deeper look has me convinced that they at least have the potential to make waves, and to shoehorn themselves into relevance in a typically crowded industry.

Let’s watch and see.

Dear Positec and CAT Power Tools: I’m glad you liked something I said in this post enough to quote it on your website, but please – it’s ToolGuyd, not “Toolguy.”

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FLEX, a ToolGuyd sponsor, has sent over a couple of their new 24V Max cordless power tools for testing and review.

Here in this post, I want to tell you about 5 things I absolutely love about the new FLEX 24V Max cordless drill specifically. I’m working with a couple of their new cordless power tools, and will report more on them shortly.

Newly Launched FLEX Tools at Lowe’s

FLEX is all about power, performance, and next-gen features. Their parent company, Chervon, is a major player in the cordless power tool industry, and they have been for a very long time. Chervon is the company behind EGO, Skil’s relaunch in recent years, and now FLEX.

FLEX’s parent company has also for years developed and manufactured cordless power tools and other products for other brands, and so you might have some of their products in your kit.

The point I’m trying to make is that FLEX is built on a foundation of years of experience, know-how, and advancements.

Read More: FLEX Cordless Launch Teaser

There are lots of things to like about the new FLEX 24V Max cordless drill/driver.

Key Features

• Turbo Mode – Speed boost for faster results
• Anti-kickback braking tech – for more confident and safer work
• Incredible power – 1400 in-lbs max torque

So, at first impression, here is what WOWed me.

Hey, look at that – the drill can take a break on its back. Oh yes, this seriously impressed me.

Sometimes I can’t stand a drill up, and I can’t lay it down. So I lean it on something, it falls over, and something ends up getting scratched.

The drill can be placed down on its battery, or it can rest in this odd position.

It’s not a big deal, but this is what comes to mind – FLEX thought of everything!

Next up, I love the textured handle grip. The FLEX drill has top-notch ergonomics with a comfortable and secure-grip handle design.

This again comes down to thoughtful attention to details.

I have not seen a battery fuel gauge on a cordless power tool battery pack like this before. This is easily the most visible fuel gauge on the market today.

The activation button is on the front of the battery.

AND – yes there’s more – there are actually TWO battery fuel gauges, one on each side of the battery pack.

The 1/2″ all-metal ratcheting chuck has carbide teeth within its jaws. I need more work with different sizes and styles of drill bits, but so far this is one of the most secure drill chucks I’ve ever used before.

If you look closely, this is a Jacob’s chuck.

Lastly, FLEX has one of the smoothest battery interfaces I have used. Press down on the release button with your finger(s) or hand, and the battery effortlessly slides away from the tool. But the release button is also very well protected against accidental contact.

The newly launched FLEX cordless power tool system holds some very strong bragging rights. They say their tools deliver 20% more power than competitors’ – “unrivaled power” – and not only but faster charging rates, more advanced features, and faster performance.

All of that is very impressive, but it’s the user-centric experience that is really wowing me.

This is “the platform’s most drill,” with a whopping 1400 in-lbs max torque, and with claims of “dramatically faster results” thanks to the 2500 RPM delivery during Turbo mode. (Note: There is also a hammer drill version as well.)

I love a powerful drill, and I appreciate faster performance. For high power needs, it’s got muscle, and it has anti-kickback tech to protect me from the type of counter-rotation that can happen when a large drill bit jams. But it’s also a joy to use so far, when I don’t need maximum power or speed.

This is the kind of drill that everyone will fight over if I include it in my next Habitat or Dept. of Public Works donation. I’ve been getting the feeling that a lot of FLEX tools are going to be like that.

I am enjoying my exploration and testing of these tools, and am eager for more.

“FLEX – it’s What’s Next.” I think they are off to a very good start. What kinds of questions do you have? What other tools from FLEX’s lineup do you want to see reviewed here?

This kit is priced at $229 and comes a charger, hard case, and one each of 2.5Ah and 5.0Ah batteries. There’s also an optional belt hook and bit holder that I haven’t installed yet.

Buy Now via Lowe’s
More FLEX Tools via Lowe’s

FLEX tools are covered by a 5-year end-to-end warranty. Register a new tool, battery, or charger within 30 days of purchasing through the end of 2021, and receive special FLEX FOUNDERS LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY coverage.

Thank you to FLEX for providing the review sample. FLEX is also a ToolGuyd sponsor as of the time of this posting.

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I purchased two cordless drill kits at retail pricing – a Makita XFD13 brushless kit, and Harbor Freight HC91K1 kit.

This isn’t an apples to apples comparison, but let’s see how two ~$99 kits (at the time of purchase) compare against each other. The Makita has a brushless motor, the Harbor Freight Hercules has a brushed motor. Both are advertised as being professional cordless power tool systems.

Which is better, Makita or Hercules? Let’s take a look at some features and specs.

(NOTE: This is all tongue-in-cheek.)

Speed

Makita: 0-500 & 0-1,900 RPM
Harbor Freight Hercules: 0-600/0-2000 RPM

Winner: Harbor Freight Hercules

Torque

Makita: 440 in-lbs
Harbor Freight Hercules: 576 in-lbs

Winner: Harbor Freight Hercules

Charging Time

Makita: 60 minutes
Harbor Freight Hercules: 60 minutes

Charging time is for Makita 3.0Ah battery and Hercules 2.5Ah battery according to the respective brands’ specs.

Winner: Tie

Size and Weight

Makita: 6-5/8″ length, ~9-3/4″ height, weighs 3.6 lbs
Harbor Freight Hercules: 7-3/8″ length, ~8-3/4″ height, weighs 3.6 lbs

Winner: Tie

Keyless Drill Chuck

Makita: Plastic sleeve
Harbor Freight Hercules: metal sleeve

Winner: Undetermined

Overall

And the overall winner is…

What, did you think I was serious here?

The Hercules is more compact overall. It’s slightly longer length-wise, but shorter with respect to height. The Makita comes with a 3Ah battery, the Hercules was bundled at the time with a 2.5Ah battery.

So with the Makita, it’s taller and a little bulkier, with 20% more battery charge capacity.

The Makita is an 18V tool, and the Hercules a 20V Max tool, which is the same thing.

Maybe at the time the Hercules setup was $89 and the Makita $99, I don’t recall exactly. I purchased both and can look at my records, but it’s a moot point because the Makita is mainly only available during the holiday shopping shopping seasons, and the Harbor Freight is no longer available as a kit.

The Point of This Post

Some of you responded aggressively to my recent comment about not associating Makita with fine woodworking tools, or considering the brand “okay” in general, with many of you referencing older tools and decades-long experiences.

Like yours, my opinions are the result of very many different experiences over time.

I was a little taken aback by the couple of you that suggested my opinions are wrong. I prefer thin crust pizza, maybe you like deep dish. Pepsi vs. Coke. Vodka vs. rum. Football vs. soccer.

I still come across people who are surprised to hear that the Craftsman brand is under different ownership and that they don’t make any tools in the USA anymore.

It’s not constructive to argue about opinions being wrong. Instead, elaborate on your own experiences. “You know, I had been using several sanders, and a coworker lent me their X-brand model and I found it had more uniform material removal and also better dust collection.” That works better than “you’re wrong because my 25 year-old tools are top-notch and carpenters I know would agree with me.”

I’m sorry, but I rely on my insights, opinions, and experiences. That has and will always be true. There will inevitably be those of you who disagree with me, drawing on your own decisions, investments, preferences, or brand loyalties. Aren’t I entitled to my own perspective?

I am open to talking things over, and if I’m being honest, I want you to disagree with me. If I only hear from those in agreement, what will I ever learn? Opposition is as valuable as validation.

I hope you realize this “comparison” post is intended in a friendly and tongue-in-cheek manner, although I know there’s a risk you don’t find it very endearing.

Truthfully, I was about to abandon the idea when I looked at the compared the specs and found the on-paper figures to be interesting.

In a true comparison, I would have to conduct side by side tests and look at application speed and runtime, as opposed to drawing from prior usage experiences with both tools.

Frankly, I was surprised that the Harbor Freight Hercules beats the Makita on specs. The speed ratings can practically be ignored, but there’s a substantial difference in max torque ratings – on paper. I haven’t tested both tools’ maxed-out performance levels side by side yet.

Is anyone interesting in a comparison between these two tools for their own purchasing decisions? I assume that if you’re reading this, it’s for the entertainment (or for another opportunity to tell me how much you disagree with my preferences and brand-tool associations).

Let’s look at the basic specs.

Speed

Brand A: 0-500 & 0-1,900 RPM
Brand B: 0-600/0-2000 RPM

Max Torque

Brand A: 440 in-lbs
Brand B: 576 in-lbs

Size and Weight

Brand A: 6-5/8″ length, ~9-3/4″ height, weighs 3.6 lbs
Brand B: 7-3/8″ length, ~8-3/4″ height, weighs 3.6 lbs

Just looking at these on-paper specs alone, which of these tools are better?

Normally, I won’t do a comparison like this, and why I instead focus on differentiation and the strengths one brand or model might have over another.

In this case, there are some objective benefits to both brands and models, and also subjective ones.

In the case of these two cordless drills, on paper, Harbor Freight Hercules has advantages over Makita. In use, there are some advantages to the Makita, but it also depends on the angle.

In really comparing the two here, my subjective leanings would go towards the Makita, independent of what ANY test results would show. It’s a more developed system, and even though this is their entry-level model, and it’s kitted with just one battery instead of two, you get a 3Ah battery. The Hercules battery is a compact 2.5Ah pack, but other pro brands in this pricing category often kit their entry-priced drills with 1.3Ah or 1.5Ah batteries.

Often, my opinions on a brand or product are relevant to the topic. Other times, they’re better left unsaid, but I let them shine through anyway. That way you KNOW where I stand.

I figure it’s a form of transparency to make my subjectivities clear, rather than potentially allow them to go unnoticed. I try very hard to avoid letting my preferences steer my objectivity, but in case there’s a risk of this happening subconsciously, the more that’s visible to you, the more at ease I feel. Does that make sense? That, and I apparently learn best through arguments. If I’m wrong about something, you can’t just tell me, you have to show me.

Some of my opinions are built on top of years of personal, professional, and external anecdotal experiences, and it’s not easy or fitting to provide all that “data” where it doesn’t fit. But, that’s also what the comments section is for, so that you can provide differing opinions.

Every now and then I’ll put everything down to paper, as in this recent post:

The Best Tool Brands in Every Category – for Me

That post explicitly discusses my current top brand proclivities, and if you want to know more, just ask.

At the time of this posting, there are 160,619 reader comments, 16,388 belonging to me. All of these comments and conversations have absolutely contributed to my knowledge, insights, and even preferences at times when I give your suggestions and recommendations a try. I am stubborn, and opinionated, but also very open-minded.

Which Would I Pick – Makita or Harbor Freight?

Even though this comparison was originally intended tongue-in-cheek, I was surprised at how seriously I was looking at how the two brands’ tools compared against each other.

I bought both for ToolGuyd-related reasons, because I needed hands-on time to know if Harbor Freight is blowing smoke with their Hercules line claims (they’re not), and if Makita’s is a compromised DIYer-friendly model specially designed for the holiday shopping season (as with most brands it kind of is, but this one proved to be recommendable).

For personal use, I’d go in a different direction with respect to cordless systems.

The Makita drill kit is presently $119 at Amazon, and the Hercules is $50 for the drill + $30 for the charger + $35 for the battery – $25 bundle discount, or $90 at Harbor Freight stores. That’s a $30 difference.

Arguments against Harbor Freight and their Hercules tools aren’t so much about the quality of their tools, but about Harbor Freight’s history and the reputation they built up over time. If you’re reading this post and saying “Hercules? – never!!,” why? Have you ever tried Hercules tools? This tool?

Anyway, hands-down, I’d go with…

Related Posts:

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Dear Tool Brand,

I posted about your cordless power tools the other day, specifically your cordless drill and impact driver combo kit.

Your brand has an interesting selection of tools and OPE, and for various reasons I started looking at your 24V Max power tools.

There were some errors in your specs. Specification and transcription errors are commonplace online, and I generally consider them to be forgivable.

I am happy you informed me that no, the cordless drill does not output 2,000 lumens of illumination from its built-in worklight.

But you make 3 broad claims about your cordless drill and impact driver, and I am having a hard time understanding where you’re coming from.

Here’s what you say:

20% more power**
35% more runtime**
2X more torque*

** Compared to similar 18V power tools.

* Versus brushed motors.

ALL of your 24V Max tools are said to deliver 20% more power and 35% more runtime.

24V Max battery packs have 6 Li-ion battery cells (and 21.6V nominal), and 18V batteries have 5 cells. One more cell means 20% greater voltage. But that’s voltage, not power.

Now, if there are two tools, one 24V Max and one 18V/20V Max, and they both draw the same current, say 2.0A (amps, not amp-hours), then yes, the 24V Max tool will be operating at 20% more power.

BUT when you step up to a higher voltage, the current draw is usually lower. So, that 20% more power is not universal. It could be true, or it could not be, it depends on different tools and comparative baselines.

If these are higher-performing tools, then they could be delivering more power, but are these higher performing tools?

The same goes for your 35% more runtime claim. Saying “compared to similar 18V power tools” isn’t enough.

Most other brands point to their own older models when they make comparisons, and this gives them a fixed reference point. In your marketing claims, there does not seem to be any fixed reference points.

Even Harbor Freight will usually say something like “compared to stated specifications of our standard product.” You know it’s bad when Harbor Freight is used as the positive example.

I don’t like vague comparisons. But, let’s move on.

Your product manager emailed me, saying:

For the 2x more torque, we use that claim for brushless versus brushed motors.

Ah, okay. Their cordless drill delivers 2X more torque than brushed motor tools. I asked them how this claim is substantiated, and have not yet heard back. Let’s look at it ourselves.

Your Brand 24V Max Cordless Drill Specs

• 0-380/0-1450 RPM
• 310 in-lbs max torque

Harbor Freight Bauer 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit

• 0-450/0-1700 RPM
• 450 in-lbs max torque

Buy Now via Harbor Freight

Hart 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit

• 0-440/0-1600 RPM
• 370 in-lbs max torque

Buy Now via Walmart

Let’s Compare Specs

Speed

• Your Tool: 0-380/0-1450 RPM
• Bauer: 0-450/0-1700 RPM
• Hart: 0-440/0-1600 RPM

Max Torque

• Your Tool: 310 in-lbs
• Bauer: 450 in-lbs
• Hart: 370 in-lbs

Pricing

• Your Tool: $130 for the kit
• Bauer: $65 for the kit
• Hart: $69 for the kit

Harbor Freight and Bauer are the least expensive and lowest spec’ed 18V/20V Max cordless drills I could find. Both brands can be characterized as being entry-level, or maybe higher entry-level?

There are some lower-spec’ed 18V/20V Max cordless drills, usually single speed and sub-$50 models with 3/8″ chucks, but that would not be a reasonable comparison to make.

Both Bauer and Hart cordless drills are faster and deliver more torque than your’ higher voltage and brushless motor-equipped drill. Not only that, their kits are far less expensive as well.

So that brings up the question – which brushed motor models are you comparing your drill and impact driver to?

So What’s Going on Here?

I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt.

Maybe you got your torque specs wrong and this drill delivers plenty more than 310 in-lbs of max torque.

Maybe you have a particular brand or model in mind for these claims.

I cannot see how the “2X more torque” claim could be valid, and I compared it to quite a few other 2-speed and 1/2″ chuck brushed motor cordless drills, just in case.

I mean, this is accidental, right? Surely it must be some kind of inadvertent mistake. Otherwise, what could you possibly say to convince me – or customers – that your brushless drill delivers 2X more power when it’s specs are lower than brushed motor cordless drills whose kits cost half as much?

Any clarification you could provide would be most appreciated.

Sincerely,

A Curious and Concerned Tool User

P.S. If anyone is wondering why this type of marketing bugs me so much – if it’s not an error – that’s because there are so many users who might take these claims at face value. I have seen so much of this over the years, and I have taken the bait and been hooked from the water a couple of times myself. We should all do our due diligence when researching tools, but that doesn’t always happen – how many of us buy tools on impulse? Keep in mind that quite a few people believe that 20V Max is better than 18V. How many new tool users or DIYers might mistakenly be led to believe this is a higher-torque tool when, according to on paper specs at least, it is bested by two of the most entry-level brushed motor models on the market today?

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Walmart and Hart Tools have announced the launch of new 20V Max cordless power tools and accessories, including a number of new brushless tool options.

Hart points out the the new brushless cordless tool will deliver more power, longer motor life, and longer runtime (compared to their brushed motor tools).

There are also expansions in cordless outdoor power tool and cleaning product families.

Additions to the Hart 20V Max cordless power tool system include:

• Brushless hammer drill
• Brushless orbital jigsaw
• Brushless reciprocating saw
• Brushless 7-1/4″ circular saw
• Brushless 4-1/2″ angle grinder
• Brushless 4pc combo kit (drill, impact, circular saw, LED)
• Brushless 3pc combo kit (drill, impact, circular saw)
• 2 gallon air compressor
• Hot glue gun
• Crown stapler
• 18-gauge brad nailer
• Soldering iron
• 3/8″ ratchet

With the brushless tools, Hart has bumped up specs and performance to new levels, but the tools are also more expensive.

It looks like the combo kits include the existing brushless drill and impact driver options, with the new brushless saw being included in the 3pc and 4pc combo kits.

Buy Now via Walmart

Jim wrote in last week (thank you!) with a tip that Walmart was clearancing out select SKUs, such as the Hart 20V Max cordless LED worklight. It is unclear as to why select SKUs are on clearance, but seeing as how Hart just announced a large expansion of their Walmart-exclusive cordless power tool lineup, I wouldn’t read too much into it.

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Metabo HPT has come out with a new 18V cordless compact reciprocating saw, model CR18DAQ4. The new saw is designed for one-handed operation and can be powered by Metabo HPT’s 18V or MultiVolt Li-ion batteries

Metabo HPT says that their new compact one-handed reciprocating saw wins several “best in class” contests.

Lightweight – best-in-class, weighing 2.9 lbs for the bare tool.

Compact – best-in-class, measuring 13.8″ long.

Speed – best-in-class with 3,200 strokes per minute.

Here’s an interesting detail I almost missed – Metabo HPT’s new saw works with standard reciprocating saw blades OR t-shank jig saw blades.

While many users might only use this for common demolition, trimming, or rough cutting tasks where reciprocating saws are typically used for speed, accessibility, or convenience, the t-shank blade compatibility opens the tool up to even more applications.

Metabo HPT says that the t-shank jigsaw blade compatibility allows for more detailed cuts, such as cutting arches in plywood, or a 1-1/2″ hole in a cavity just 6″ wide or between studs.

For lighter duty cutting tasks, being able to operate a saw with only one hand means your other hand is free for material support.

Like other one-handed saws, the new Metabo HPT’s is lightweight, which should reduce user fatigue during extended use or in making overhead cuts.

Metabo HPT says that the saw has a power to size and weight ratio that is unmatched in its class.

Press materials describe the new saw being used for tasks I normally wouldn’t associate with reciprocating saws:

• Cutting PVC pipes all day
• Cutting metal closet shelf accessories
• Notching vinyl plank flooring
• Cutting nail embedded 2x4s
• Pruning small shrubs around the home

Metabo HPT says that this is the most versatile one-handed recip available today, and it looks like they might be onto something.

Key Features and Specs

• 18V system (also works with MultiVolt batteries)
• 17/32″ stroke length
• 0-3,200 SPM cutting speed
• Max cutting capacity
  • 2″ mild steel pipe
  • 2″ wood
• Variable speed control
• Tool-less blade change
• Tool-less shoe adjustment
• LED worklight

Price: $129

Discussion

As soon as I caught on about the t-shank blade compatibility, my eyes lit up.

There are a lot of different applications where I like t-shank jigsaw blade selection and cut quality, but where a jigsaw might not be the best tool to make the cut I need. Cutting plastic or aluminum stock, for instance, is not a good fit for most reciprocating saws unless you want a very rough edge that will need heavy processing. There are a wide range of reciprocating saw blades available, but they’re generally designed for demo or rough cutting tasks.

In their promo video. Metabo HPT shows off the saw cutting tight arcs with a jigsaw blade, and that’s not something you can do with any standard reicprocating saw blade I’ve seen.

With t-shank blade compatibility, this might indeed be the most versatile one-handed reciprocating saw on the market.

Metabo HPT’s best-in-class claims look to check out.

However, whereas the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hackzall is rated at 3,000 SPM, it has a 7/8″ stroke length.

Dewalt’s Atomic series one-handed reciprocating saw is rated at 2,800 SPM and has a stroke length of 5/8″.

Metabo HPT’s recip saw is rated at 3,200 SPM and with a stroke length of 17/32″.

But, the Metabo HPT saw also weighs less than Dewalt’s 12V Max Xtreme Subcompact one-handed saw, at least when comparing bare tool to bare tool.

The lower stroke length spec should also mean less vibration.

It is also worth noting that the Metabo HPT does not mention having a brushless motor, not that brushless motors mean anything anymore given the new breed of low-powered brushless tools some brands have been coming out with.

The fast cutting speed is notable, but so is the shorter stroke length. The stroke length is likely tied to the size of the tool, helping it to be as compact as it is.

Usually, a longer stroke length means faster cutting, while a shorter stroke length can provide more control.

If choosing this reciprocating saw, your primary benefit would be in the blade selection versatility and the saw’s compact size and weight.

I think that Metabo HPT could have made different decisions with this tool, but probably not without making it larger, heavier, and pricier.

Lastly, the battery interface housing looks to extend beyond the rear of the battery a bit. Is this to prevent users from attempting to rest the tool on its battery? Normally, one-handed drills are designed with drill-like battery interfaces, but not this one. Or might this be to give more support to larger MultiVolt batteries? Hmm.

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Festool has announced a new 18V cordless track saw, model TSC 55K, that they say delivers top-of-the-line precision and innovation, as well as unparalleled accuracy cut after cut.

The new Festool TSC 55K features first-of-its-kind integrated kickback-stop technology.

Track saws are already often used when for tricky cutting tasks, as their plunge-cutting capabilities can provide more control and a safer cut compared to trying to cut into the middle of a board or sheet with a traditional circular saw. Added anti-kickback measures seems like another step forward.

With the new kickback-stop technology, the Festool TSC 55K can detect the moment kickback occurs during a cut, and as the saw begins to lurch backward towards its user, the saw will seize motor rotation, halting the blade. After the kickback stop activates, the saw is immediately ready to use with zero downtime.

The new TSC 55K features a similar 18V battery power system as its predecessor, and it can be operated using one or two batteries. Generally, you’ll want to use two batteries for the best performance.

Festool is also launching new thinner kerf saw blades that also feature new tooth geometries for improved cutting performance and longer blade life.

The saw can be used with a dust collection bag or separate dust extractor vacuum. Using Bluetooth-equipped batteries will allow for wireless activation of Bluetooth-equipped (or retrofitted) vacuums.

Pricing and Availability

There will be 3 purchasing options.

Cordless Track Saw TSC 55 KEB-F-Basic (576717): $499

Cordless Track Saw TSC 55 5,2 KEBI-F-Plus (576718): $699

Cordless Track Saw TSC 55 5,2 KEBI-F-Plus-FS (577008): $799

The Basic configuration is the “bare tool” option, as shown above. The Plus option is the full kit, adding in (2) rapid chargers and (2) 18V Bluetooth-equipped 5.2Ah batteries. The Plus-FS option is the full kit bundled with a 55″ guide rail (FS 1400).

Buy Now: Bare Tool via Tool Nut
Buy Now: Kit via Tool Nut
Buy Now: Kit + Track via Tool Nut

ETA: June 15, 2021

Questions and Answers

Is the depth scale in metric or imperial units?

The cutting depth scale is in imperial units in North America versions, and metric for countries outside of North America.

Are there any other differences aside from the anti-kickback tech?

Comparing the new TSC 55 KEB with the previous version, TSC 5 REB, there are two major differences. First, the Festool TSC 55 KEB has the “Kickback Stop” anti-kickback technology as discussed above. But also, it forgoes the riving knife of the older TSC 55 REB model.

There are other benefits as well- thanks to the new thin kerf saw blades, Festool has realized up to 50% longer runtime per charge.

On their website, Festool says that the new saws cut up to twice as fast. This is due to the new blades not only cutting with a thinner kerf, but the tooth profiles have been updated with a new cutting geometry.

Thanks to our new generation of saw blades and the concentrated torque of our cordless track saws, you will be able to work up to twice as fast with an extended battery range. Maximum cutting performance meets perfect cutting quality.

Festool also says that the brushless motor delivers as much power as their AC-powered track saw [when powered by two batteries].

What is the kerf size?

The TSC 55 REB blades cut with a 2.2mm kerf, and the new saw blades for the TSC 55 KEB have a 1.8mm kerf.

Are there other blade differences?

The new blades provide a longer overall life of up to 40% compared to the previous version.

Festool TSC 55 KEB Saw Blades

Since the previous model had a riving knife designed around a 2.2mm kerf, the new 1.8mm thin kerf blades are NOT recommended for use with previous machines (TS 55, TSC 55). For a riving knife to function properly, it needs to closely match the saw blade diameter. If your kerf width is thinner than your riving knife width, that’s going to be a problem.

Here are the new SKUs:

WOOD RIP CUT HW 160×1,8×20 PW16 (205559)
WOOD UNIVERSAL HW 160×1,8×20 W28 (205560)
WOOD FINE CUT HW 160×1,8×20 WD42 (205561)
LAMINATE/HPL HW 160×1,8×20 TF52 L (205562)
ALUMINIUM/PLASTICS HW 160×1,8×20 TF52 A (205563)
Diamond saw blade ABRASIVE MATERIALS DIA 160×1,8×20 F4 (205564)

This seems to be another benefit of the Kickback Stop feature – it will function independently of saw blade thickness, type, or material.

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Harbor Freight ads are very visible these days, and they’re changing.

It used to be that everything Harbor Freight put out would scream “hey, look at our super cheap stuff!!” There are still plenty of “save money on…” types of ads, and coupon offers, but then there are the ads that do not fit Harbor Freight’s more traditional focus.

With this new Harbor Freight ad that I came across in a news feed, here’s the primary message: Shine Like new Again, Your Auto Detailing Destination.

That’s different – right?

Sure, there are “compare to” examples of lower pricing, but read the secondary copy:

Shine your car or truck like new again | Restore that new car glow with our wide selection of auto detailing tools & supplies.

This is an angle either I haven’t seen them focus on before, or maybe I saw something similar and it was outshined by Harbor Freight’s typical “ridiculously low-price” sales pitches.

This… divergence or evolution – or marketing experiment? – seems to be progressing.

This is Different – Harbor Freight Marketing Claims of “Reliable Performance”

In March, I posted about what looked to be a marketing shift for Harbor Freight, where their focus wasn’t on low pricing, but on their tools as a solution.

New Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Low-Profile Creeper Colors

I also spotted an automotive creeper ad, and it too was different than what I would have expected from Harbor Freight.

Even looking at the newsletters in my inbox, there’s a notable shift in their marketing strategy. There are still “instant savings” and “free gift” newsletter headings, but also ones that frame Harbor Freight as your floor jack headquarters.

I can’t be the only one noticing this, right?

Some of their tools? Oh yeah, they’re still junky, but Harbor Freight is also doing things like expanding their Hercules line of cordless power tools with brushless options. There’s also their Icon line of “tool truck quality” hand tools and storage options.

They have also added more name-brand tools to their catalog:

Harbor Freight Now Sells Select Brand-Name Tools?!

Harbor Freight also recently added Gorilla Tape products on their website.

Do Not Underestimate Harbor Freight Tools

Last year I wrote a post – Do Not Underestimate Harbor Freight Tools. At the time, I had become aware that Harbor Freight has grown to be a lot more popular than I had realized.

Objectively, they are also quite large. Harbor Freight now has more than 1100 stores whereas about a year ago, they were at “1000+” stores.

They have the potential to shake up the industry. But is that what they’re trying to do?

Part of me wonders if I’m finding changes because that is I want to see.

Is Harbor Freight chipping away at their former reputation as a “cheap tools, cheap quality” destination? Is that what they’re trying to do here?

Harbor Freight’s current logo/tagline reads: Quality Tools Lowest Prices. Are they working towards Quality Tools [at] All Prices?

Is your perception of Harbor Freight Tools any different today than it was 5 or 10 years ago?

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Makita USA’s XGT launch seems to be confusing some people, as their new “higher power” system is built around 18V form-factor tools, rather than what you would expect 36V/40V Max cordless power tools to look like.

A reader asked how Makita’s new XGT cordless hammer drill and impact driver combo kit compared to the brand’s 18V option.

Frankly, I don’t know. So, let’s walk through some specs together.

Makita 18V Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit

This is Makita’s latest brushless hammer drill and impact driver combo kit to date, model XT288T.

Makita 18V Hammer Drill

• Model XPH14
• Max Torque: 1,250 in-lbs

Makita 18V Impact Driver

• Model XDT16
• Max Torque: 1,600 in-lbs
• 4-speed power selection

Makita 18V Combo Kit Contents

• Kit bag
• 2x 5.0Ah batteries
• 45 minute charger

Price: $399

Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via Acme Tools

Makita 40V Max XGT Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit

Makita GT200D is their new XGT brushless hammer drill and impact driver combo kit.

Makita XGT Hammer Drill

• Model GPH01
• Max Torque: 1,250 in-lbs
• Electronic clutch
• “Active feedback technology”

Makita XGT Impact Driver

• Model GDT01
• Max Torque: 1,950 in-lbs
• 4-speed power selection

Makita XGT Combo Kit Contents

• Kit bag
• 2x 2.5Ah batteries
• 28 minute charger

Price: $449

Buy Now via Amazon

Makita 18V vs. 40V Max XGT Voltage Differences

Let’s start with voltage.

You might think there’s a big difference between “40V Max,” which is simply another way marketers describe 36V Li-ion cordless power tools and batteries, and 18V tools, but it depends on the circumstances.

Back when Dewalt introduced their 15-cell 60V Max and 120V Max cordless power tool systems, Makita often said in press releases about their 18V X2 tools that “voltage is only part of the story.”

According to Makita USA:

“When contractors search for a cordless replacement for a corded tool, voltage is only part of the story,” said Carlos Quintana, Sr. Product Manager, Cordless, Makita U.S.A. “Watt hours, the product of amp hours and nominal voltage, measures the amount of performance performed by the tool and is a better efficiency indicator.”

Watt hours is calculated by multiplying nominal voltage and amp-hours [and] it is a key indicator of battery capacity and run time.

Watt-hours is a measure of energy, and Makita describes it as the amount of performance performed by the tool.

The 18V combo kit comes with 2x 5.0Ah batteries, and the 40V Max XGT (36V nominal) combo kit comes with 2x 2.5Ah batteries.

Let’s do some math.

Makita 18V 5.0Ah battery: 18V x 5.0Ah = 90 watt-hours

Makita XGT 2.5Ah battery: 36V x 2.5Ah = 90 watt-hours

For external comparison:

Milwaukee M18 5.0Ah battery: 18V x 5.0Ah = 90 watt-hours

Dewalt 20V Max 5.0Ah battery: 18V x 5.0Ah = 90 watt-hours

The 2.5Ah 40V Max batteries in this Makita XGT cordless power tool combo kit have the same watt-hours energy rating as the 5.0Ah batteries in Makita, Dewalt, and Milwaukee 18V and 20V Max cordless systems.

Last year, when comparing different brands’ cordless systems, I wrote:

The XGT system kind of makes sense, but not really. An 18V 5.0Ah battery and a 40V Max 2.5Ah battery have the same number of cells – can the XGT system really deliver “the next level of cordless solutions for higher demand applications?”

15 months later, I’m still wondering the same.

Many brands have added higher-performing and higher capacity battery packs to their 18V and 20V Max cordless power tool systems, something Makita has suggested they will not do with their 18V system, but will do in their XGT system. Watt-hours will likely become a more visible comparative metric, as will the physical size of the Li-ion cells.

For instance, Makita has an 18V 6.0Ah battery, but while it has the same watt-hours rating as other brands’ 6.0Ah batteries, it’s difficult to compare batteries built with 18650 cells against those built with 21700 cells without qualifications.

The 18V and XGT batteries discussed here are both built with 18650 Li-ion cells.

Compared to Makita’s 18V batteries, XGT batteries have double the voltage and half the charge capacity. What will this mean for users looking at similar tools in both lineups, such as here, for whom nothing beyond these two kits matter?

With the XGT and 18V batteries having the same watt-hours rating, what benefits do these 40V Max XGT 2.5Ah batteries hold over Makita’s 18V LXT 5.0Ah batteries?

Does 18V vs. 36V/40V Max matter when comparing just these tools? I’ve come to the conclusion that it only complicates things. In this case the watt-hours are the same, and so we can disregard voltage as a meaningful difference between these two combo kit options. But, I’m open-minded – can you add anything to convince me that it’s important in this context.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Torque Specs

Both 18V and XGT drills are said to deliver the same 1,250 in-lbs of max torque.

The XGT impact driver looks to have a slight advantage over the 18V impact with a higher max torque rating.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Features

Both of the impact drivers look to have comparable features, such as 4-speed power selection.

The drills are a bit different. On their website, Makita only says that the XGT has an electronic clutch with 41 settings in low speed and 21 settings in high speed.

(Personally, I tend to favor mechanical clutches over electronic clutches, as I find them to be more accurate and repeatable in lower torque application.)

It looks like you have to push a button or spin a dial to cycle through all of the clutch settings. We asked Makita USA for clarification and never heard back.

The XGT drill has “active feedback-sensing technology” which turns the motor off if it senses that an attached accessory has suddenly stopped rotating. Makita doesn’t explicitly describe this as anti-kickback tech, but unless there’s a differentiation unknown to me, that’s what it sounds like.

Makita touts the XGT system as having rare earth magnets, pure copper wire, built-in microchips, and digital communications. However, as far as I am aware, other brands’ modern brushless power tools have similar features.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Battery Charging Time

Given that the XGT battery has a lower charge capacity, at 2.5Ah vs. 5.0Ah, it takes a lot less time time to recharge – 28 minutes instead of 45 minutes for the 18V battery. This is with the included chargers.

Makita says this about the XGT charger:

display indicates battery charge level (-80%, +80%, 100%)

It’s unclear what this means (-80%?), but many modern chargers have similar charging state indicators.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Speed

There are on-paper differences in max no-load RPMs, which explains the higher max torque of the XGT impact wrench.

18V Hammer Drill: 0-550/0-2100 RPM
XGT Hammer Drill: 0-650/0-2,600 RPM

18V Impact Driver: 3,600 RPM/3,800 IPM
XGT Impact Driver: 3,700 RPM/4,400 IPM

This could be tied to the higher voltage motor, higher power draw from the batteries, neither, both, or something else entirely.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Weight

18V Hammer Drill: 6 lbs with battery
XGT Hammer Drill: 6 lbs with battery

18V Impact Driver: 3.4 lbs with battery
XGT Impact Driver: 3.7 lbs with battery

The drills have the same weight, and the XGT impact driver is marginally heavier compared to the 18V.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Length

18V Hammer Drill: 7″
XGT Hammer Drill: 7-1/8″

18V Impact Driver: 4-9/16″
XGT Impact Driver: 4-3/4″

The XGT tools are marginally less compact compared to the 18V.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Kit Pricing

$399 vs. $449 might not seem like a big difference, but $399 is a lot for a drill and impact driver already.

Home Depot had a deal earlier this year, where you buy this particular Makita 18V combo kit for $399 and get (2) free 5.0Ah batteries plus a screwdriver bit set.

There are similar deals other times of year. Last winter holiday season, retailers had an offer where you buy the Makita 18V hammer drill and impact driver combo kit and could get 2 free bare tools or batteries included in the $399 price.

It’s unclear as to what Makita’s XGT marketing will look like, and whether there will be any promotions, discounts, or free tool bundles similar to their regular 18V LXT system promos.

Makita 18V vs. XGT Differences Summary

Looking at these two drill and impact driver combo kits, it seems that the XGT drill has a different clutch with more settings, and what sounds to be anti-kickback tech. The 18V and XGT hammer drills have the same max torque, and the XGT impact driver is a little more powerful than the 18V model. XGT RPMs are a little higher.

The batteries included in both kits pack the same energy – 90 watt-hours. The 2.5Ah XGT battery charges faster than the 5.0Ah 18V battery.

Unless anyone can suggest or explain otherwise, the 18V vs. 40V Max voltage difference doesn’t seem to be very meaningful here. Maybe there will be more notable differences with future hammer drill and impact driver releases. Thus, for simplicity, it seems that we can ignore the 18V and 40V Max voltage considerations entirely and pretend we are comparing two competing 18V options.

The 18V kit has an advantage when it comes to the regular retail price. Makita’s flagship 18V hammer drill and impact driver combo kit is occasionally featured in special promos with added-value products, such as free bare tools and batteries, and it is unknown as to whether Makita will offer the same incentives for the 40V Max combo.

If you ignore promo pricing considerations, $399 gets you an 18V kit, and $449 gets you the XGT 40V Max kit with some feature differentiations and a bump-up in certain specs. Makita USA has not answered questions about if any of these features will be coming to the 18V line.

If you had to choose, which option would YOU go for?

If I were shopping for a new heavier duty hammer drill and impact driver combo kit and could only choose between the two Makita combos discussed here, I’d wait around for the next Makita 18V promo, where you can get a lot more for $400 than just a hammer drill and impact driver kit.

If for some reason Makita unexpectedly discontinued all promos on their 18V combo kit, I’d find a way to spend a little more for the XGT’s features – if they prove to be advantageous. The anti-kickback feature sounds appealing (and I don’t understand why Makita wouldn’t add this to their newest 18V hammer drill), although as mentioned I haven’t had great experiences with electronic drill clutches.

The electronic clutch could be a moot point for me – I generally use compact cordless drills (as opposed to heavy duty 1000+ in-lbs torque drills) or cordless screwdrivers when working with smaller fasteners, and impact drivers for medium-sized and larger fasteners. I have not yet had great experiences with any 18V-sized heavy duty super-torque drill when driving in smaller or shorter fasteners. I also don’t usually use a clutch in drilling mode (should I be?).

Buy Now: Makita 18V Combo via Amazon
Buy Now: Makita 18V Combo via Acme Tools
Buy Now: Makita XGT Combo via Amazon

See Also: Dewalt 20V Max XR Combo via Amazon
See Also: Dewalt FlexVolt Advantage Combo
See Also: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Combo via Tool Nut

Related Posts:

New Makita XDT16 Brushless Impact Driver More Details About Makita XGT 40V Max Cordless Power Tool System, and an 18V LXT Charging Adapter Makita 18V X2 Cordless Pressure Washer with Portable Water Reservoir

Dewalt has announced a new FlexVolt 20V/60V Max 15.0Ah Li-ion battery, model DCB615.

This is the highest capacity battery Dewalt has ever launched as part of their 20V Max of FlexVolt cordless power tool systems.

Dewalt press materials describe the types of users and applications they have in mind for this new battery:

Delivering a new threshold of performance in the FLEXVOLT Battery lineup, the 15.0 Ah battery is designed to provide maximum runtime in heavy-duty commercial applications including concrete and masonry, metalworking, building, and remodeling.

The battery is compatible with all Dewalt 20V Max (and FlexVolt) chargers.

Dewalt says it can be used in outdoor temperatures as low as 0°F.

The battery has a 3-LED fuel gauge.

Price: $349
ETA: September 2021

Dewalt has also announced two new 60V Max brushless SDS Max combination rotary hammers, which they say are ideal pairings for the new FlexVolt 15.0Ah battery. Read more about Dewalt’s new 1-7/8″ (DCH735) and 2″ (DCH775) rotary hammers here.

Note: 15Ah is measured in 20V Max mode, which is in line with how Dewalt’s previous FlexVolt products were described.

Update: As readers pointed out in comments, the new 15Ah battery weighs 4.5 lbs as per its product page specs. This suggests that its not just equipped with higher capacity cells, but that it might physically be a larger battery with higher cell count.

Discussion

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that Dewalt launched a new 15Ah battery, especially since the same cells are presumably used in the 10Ah batteries that launched with their new cordless lawn mower.

What will see next – compact 5Ah batteries?

Dewalt has so far announced two new rotary hammers that they describe as being ideal tools for use with the new battery. What other high performing tools do you think are on their roadmap?

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Dewalt has announced two new FlexVolt 60V Max SDS Max combination rotary hammers in 1-7/8″ and 2″ sizes.

Both of the new FlexVolt rotary hammers are said to be ideal pairings for Dewalt’s new FlexVolt 15Ah battery that was also recently announced.

Dewalt DCH735 FlexVolt Rotary Hammer (1-7/8″)

Both of the new Dewalt brushless rotary hammers offer fast concrete drilling for use in a wide range of applications.

The DCH735 rotary hammer delivers 13.3 Joules of impact energy, and is described as a midweight tool.

It’s said to be well suited for tasks such as horizontal and downwards drilling for #6 through #9 rebar dowel operations, dry core drilling of up to 5″, chipping tasks, driving ground rods, and bushing.

Price: $999 for the DCH735X2 kit
ETA: September 2021

Compare: Dewalt DCH733 Rotary Hammer via Amazon

Dewalt DCH775 FlexVolt Rotary Hammer (2″)

The new Dewalt 2″ cordless rotary hammer, also featuring a brushless motor, delivers 19.4 Joules of impact energy.

It can handle horizontal and downward drilling for #9 through #14 rebar dowel applications, dry coring up to 6″, as well as chipping, ground rod driving, and bushing operations.

Price: $1,099 for the DCH775X2 kit
ETA: September 2021

Compare: Dewalt DCH773 Rotary Hammer via Amazon

Shared Rotary Hammer Features

Both tools are part of Dewalt’s PERFORM & PROTECT product line, featuring:

Anti-Rotation E-Clutch System that shuts down the tools when they detect bind-up situations.

SHOCKS Active Vibration Control that reduces vibrations felt by users at the handle.

Both tools also have:

Wireless Tool Control – this allows users to link the tools to the Dewalt FlexVolt DCV585 dust extractor for remote activation.

Tool Connect Tag-Ready – add a tag accessory (sold separately) for tracking via the Dewalt Site Manager app.

OSHA Table 1 Complaint – silica dust control compliance is achieved when used with either DWH050 or DWH053 shrouds and the DCV585 dust extractor. The shrouds and vacuum are sold separately.

Discussion

Dewalt has existing FlexVolt 60V Max rotary hammers, DCH733 and DCH773 DS Max combination rotary hammers, 1-7/8″ and 2″ models, respectively, and it will be interesting to see how these new offerings compare.

That the new FlexVolt rotary hammers were announced alongside the also-new 15Ah battery, suggesting that they were designed to drive deeper (pun not intended) into higher performing tool territory.

We’ll follow up when we learn more.

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Metabo HPT has announced a new industry-first full-size cordless plunge router, model M3612DA. The new Metabo HPT M3612DA is a 1/2″ router, and it will be part of the brand’s 36V MultiVolt system.

Until now, we have only seen a couple of different cordless trim routers, with 1/4″ collets, and this is the first 2HP 1/2″ router to be powered by cordless power tool battery.

As a full-size router, the Metabo HPT M3612DA should have ample power for use with larger-profiled router bits.

Metabo HPT also says that their new cordless router features faster cutting speeds than its cordless equivalents and that it can plunge [cut] through even the hardest of woods with ease.

The new router features a soft-start motor for more control during ramp-up.

Key Features & Specs

• Brushless 2HP motor
• 1/4″ and 1/2″ collets are included
• 11,000 – 25,000 RPM
• Adjustable speed dial
• 1-31/32″ max plunge stroke depth
• Tool-less depth adjustment
• LED worklight
• Over 46 feet per minute cutting speed (in 1/2″ plywood)
• Weighs 6.6 lbs with battery – 40% lighter than corded equivalent (M12VE)
• Dust collection port is included

As part of Metabo HPT’s 36V cordless power tool system, the new router can be powered by their 2.5Ah or 4.0Ah MultiVolt batteries, or an AC adapter.

Metabo HPT has been expanding their lines of 18V and 36V cordless power tools, which can all be powered with their MultiVolt battery pack.

Price: $399

The kit, M3612DA, comes with a dust collection port, 1/4″ and 1/2″ collets, a 2.5Ah MultiVolt battery, rapid charger, 7pc template guide set, straight edge guide, wrench, and carrying bag.

Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via Acme Tools

Discussion

It’s about time!

Here are the things that stand out to me – first, Metabo HPT says that the new cordless router performs faster than the corded equivalent and is also lighter. Second, the option to go cordless or corded (via optional AC adapter) seems appealing for a tool like this where some jobs could be quick and others very long and drawn out.

It will be interesting to see what Metabo HPT comes out with next.

Related Posts:

Bosch 12V Max Cordless Router Review New Dewalt Cordless Woodworking Tools: Router, Sander, Jigsaws New Ridgid Octane Cordless Router, R860443B

Makita has announced new 18V and 12V Max SubCompact cordless polishers, aimed at “spot polishing micro imperfections or polishing narrow spaces,” and also “removing scuff marks or oxidation from plastic surfaces and convertible window screens,” and similar tasks.

The new Makita cordless polishers, XVP01 for 18V and VP01 for 12V Max CXT, work with 3″ pads and 2″ sanding discs.

Both feature lock-on power switches, variable speed triggers, and comparable speed ranges – 0-2800/0-9500 RPM.

At this time there is no word as to whether Makita is adding any polishers to their XGT 40V Max “One System” 18V form factor cordless platform.

See Also: Makita XGT Cordless Launch
Makita 18V and 40V Max Incompatibility

Makita’s product images make the polishers look a bit cramped, but it could just be the angles.

While you might not need a “sub-compact” cordless polisher for working on cars, something that is typically done in wide open spaces, the size of the tools seem appropriate. Still, I can hear the Derek Zoolander reaction – “is this a polisher for ants toy cars?”

Makita specifically describes their new cordless polishers as being for “precise detail polishing and sanding,” and it works with standard 2″ and 3″ accessories. “Sub-compact” is okay for this, both models seem to be suitably sized for spot or small area polishing tasks.

Makita XVP01 18V Cordless Polisher Features & Specs

• 0-2800/0-9500 RPM
• 2″ sanding disc
• 3″ pad size
• Lock-on switch
• Variable speed trigger
• 6-11/16″ length
• Weighs 3.1 lbs

The kit (XVP01R1B) comes with tool, charger, single battery (2.0Ah), backing plate, and polishing pads. There will also be a bare tool, XVP01ZB.

Price: $199 bare tool, $299 for kit

Buy Now: Kit via Acme Tools
Buy Now: Bare Tool via Acme Tools

It looks like Acme Tools is the only Makita USA retail partner to have these polishers in stock and ready to ship.

It’s good to see that these are in stock and shipping already. Usually when Dewalt and Milwaukee launch new cordless power tools, the high demand can lead to preorder and backorder delays.

Update: If you’re okay waiting, Amazon has already-discounted pricing on preorders – $188.58 for the bare tool, $281.83. It’s unclear why Makita USA would allow Amazon to undercut their independent channels with lower launch pricing, but take advantage of it while you can!

Buy Now: Kit via Amazon
Buy Now: Bare Tool via Amazon

Makita VP01 12V Max CXT Cordless Polisher Features & Specs

• 0-2800/0-9500 RPM
• 2″ sanding disc
• 3″ pad size
• Lock-on switch
• Variable speed trigger
• 5-1/2″ length
• Weighs 2.4 lbs

The kit, VP01R1 comes with tool, charger, single battery (2.0Ah), backing plate, and polishing pads. There will also be a bare tool, VP01Z.

Price: $179 for the bare tool, $269 for the kit

Buy Now: Kit via Acme Tools
Buy Now: Bare Tool via Acme Tools

As with the 18V version, Acme Tools has the 12V CXT version in-stock and ready to ship.

Buy Now: Kit via Amazon
Buy Now: Bare Tool via Amazon

Compare

Milwaukee Tool’s M12 cordless polisher has been very popular over the years. It’s less expensive than Makita’s new offerings, and the kits give you (2) batteries instead of just (1). The Milwaukee has slightly lower top speeds and a brushed motor instead of brushless.

The M12 polisher was released nearly 7 years ago. Maybe 2021 will the year we seen an M12 Fuel upgrade?

Buy Now: Bare Tool via Home Depot
Buy Now: Kit via Home Depot

Related Posts:

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A reader wrote in today with a tough question. They have Dewalt 18V cordless power tools that see casual use, and their batteries have aged and no longer hold a charge.

So here’s their question – do they spend $110 to get a new battery, or consider upgrading to Dewalt’s 20V Max cordless system. After all, Father’s Day is coming up, and there are typically some great deals on cordless combo kits.

I cannot answer this definitively without learning more about the tools they use or the types of tasks they use them for. If user has to decide between spending $110 and $1000, that’s a tougher scenario for me to offer an opinion about.

Luckily, they also asked a very specific question that is much easier to answer:

Do you see [Dewalt] 18V as having some redeeming value?

If budget and costs aren’t a factor? No, I don’t see any reason to put any money into Dewalt’s 18V NiCad system.

The only reasons to extend the useful life of 18V tools is out of personal attachment, or to save money. I suppose reparability could be also a factor.

A couple of local contractors and tradesmen still use Dewalt 18V cordless power tools – mainly drills. One has a franken-drill with components they sourced from several different drills as parts failed. Another mentioned seeking repairs at a service center and being quoted for more than it would cost to replace their 18V tool with a new 20V Max option.

I believe some users are also getting their battery packs rebuilt with fresh NiCad cells.

The 20V Max lineup is broader, and the tools are more advanced. You get more power, updated ergonomics, longer runtime, and improved capabilities.

The best Dewalt 18V XRP battery is rated at what, 2.6Ah?

It looks like the best Dewalt 18V 3-speed cordless drill (DCD940KX) has a 450 UWO rating (this relates to max torque and power performance) and tops out at 2000 RPM. Dewalt’s DCD791 and DCD796 compact drill and hammer drill respectively, with neither being 3-speed models, deliver 460 UWO power output and they also top out at 2000 RPM.

On paper, Dewalt’s 20V Max compact brushless drills out-perform their best 18V model. You’ll find Dewalt’s premium brushless drills and hammer drills to be so much more powerful and longer running, plus they’re more compact.

The results are similar across the board. Are there any 18V tools that out-match Dewalt’s 20V Max Li-ion offerings? I don’t think so.

If your 18V tools are still chugging along, and you don’t care to upgrade, that’s fine. But once those older tools or batteries start wearing, I don’t see any reason to put any more money into that system. Do you?

Dewalt has a 20V Max to 18V battery adapter, model DCA1820, which you can buy for $39 via Amazon. They also have starter kits that include a battery and charger.

This adapter lets you use select Dewalt 20V Max battery packs with most Dewalt 18V cordless drills.

If you have an extensive 18V cordless power tool collection that you’re not ready to upgrade from yet, this adapter is still a good option for gradual investment.

The adapter isn’t compatible with all 18V tools or all 20V Max batteries, but that’s still better than the alternative.

Each Dewalt 18V cordless power tool user will have to determine for themselves whether or not – or when – to retire their tools.

But if you ask me, I really don’t see any incentives or benefits in further 18V system investments.

Note: In the context of this post, Dewalt’s 18V system is their older NiCad-based cordless platform. Their 20V Max system is based off an 18V Li-ion battery. Overseas, the 20V Max system is 18V XR.

What do you guys think – is there any reason to stick with Dewalt 18V tools once they start needing new batteries, repairs, or replacing?

Related Posts:

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My inbox has been filling up with gift guide requests, suggestions, and lists, and some of the mentioned products are indeed very good ideas. However, do you know what types of tools make for the best gifts? The products, gear, and tool upgrades I would want to buy or receive myself to use all the time.

There are quite a few tools that I very thoroughly enjoy working with, but I forced myself to narrow it down to just 5.

These aren’t exactly glamorous compared to some other gift ideas, but wouldn’t you prefer to give or get something that will be used, rather than an “oh, that’s… nice” product that goes right into a closet?

This is part 2 of a series. For part 1, check out: 5 Must-Have Tools for New Parents

Thank you to The Home Depot for being a ToolGuyd sponsor.

Husky Adjustable Height Work Table

In no uncertain terms, this Husky work table is a beauty of a work table, and I also think it’s a fantastic buy given its features and sturdiness.

The work table has an adjustable height mechanism, and it comes with both leveling feet and casters in case your usage needs change over time.

With a 300 lb weight capacity and sturdy framing, you can use this as a workbench, computer desk, or anything in between.

You have some decisions to make – choose your size (46”, 52” 62” lengths), color (white or black), and whether you want drawers or not.

Husky’s exceptionally well-padded packaging ensured mine (thank you Home Depot!) arrived in perfect condition. I would not hesitate to order another one online.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Read More:

Husky Adjustable Height Workbench is so Much Nicer Than I Expected

Milwaukee Tool Scissors

Office scissors are no match for plastic clamshell packaging, or pretty much anything you might need to cut in a workshop or around the home outside of printer paper.

Plastic clamshell packaging and anything else that you might want to cut with scissors, are no match for these Milwaukee scissors. (Although to be fair, sometimes I still need a knife for the most stubborn of plastic product vaults.)

I used to keep tin snips around for general purpose cutting tasks, but not anymore thanks to these Milwaukee scissors.

Growing up, my parents kept heavy duty all-metal scissors in the household junk drawer, and we used those scissors for everything. These Milwaukee scissors are the ones my kids will reminisce about in 20+ years.

There are two versions – straight and offset. If you don’t have a preference, I would gently steer you towards the offset scissors, although we have and use both. If you can’t decide, get one of each.

Buy Now: Straight Scissors
Buy Now: Offset Scissors
Buy Now: 2pc Set

Husky 27oz Dead-Blow Hammer

Dead blow hammers are the answer to so many frustrations. Something’s stuck? Give it a whack. Installing wire or metal shelving? Give it a whack. Does a wood board need coercing? Give it a whack.

A dead blow hammer is specially designed with a shifting weight inside the head, and this serves to absorb shock and recoil with every strike. It’s an experience most tool users are immediately sold on once they try a dead blow hammer for themselves.

Why this hammer? I was sorting through the hammer selections at my local The Home Depot store and was amazed at this dead blow’s size. Most dead blows are a bit weighty, and even if they deaden the recoil quite a bit, they can be heavy and tiring to use. Instead, this one felt lighter and more compact. I bought one on the spot.

If you pick up different rubber or non-marring mallets, you’ll see what I like about this – it’s a comfortable size that’s easy to swing, but still substantial enough to pack a usefully punchful wallop.

This is like the 5″ petty knife you use when a paring knife is too small and a chef’s knife is too big.

On top of all its anti-recoil benefits, this Husky has a soft face to help prevent marring struck surfaces. Sure, you might think you don’t need a dead blow hammer – go ahead and use a steel-faced hammer if you want to put some dents in whatever you’re striking.

If you have your doubts, seek it out the next time you’re at a Home Depot store and give it a feel.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Combo Kit

Ryobi’s new 18V One+ HP compact brushless drill and impact driver won’t win any competitive awards based on power, speed, or innovative features, but this combo kit nonetheless represents their best cordless power tool system entry point yet.

I am really excited about this new lineup. The drill and impact driver are both compact and reasonably powerful, and seem to be the most uncompromised Ryobi tools I’ve ever used. New and upgrading users will likely love the power to weight ratio of these offerings.

There are less expensive ways to get started with a drill and impact, or with Ryobi’s 18V cordless power tool system. But when filtering through all the options, I sought to answer one question – what would I have wanted to buy or receive when I was upgrading from a far less capable cordless drill 15 years ago, and which cordless system would I have wanted to enter at that time? This kit is the answer.

If you’re looking for something different, or would recommend something different, I’d love to hear about it in a comment below.

Buy Now via Home Depot

Husky Utility Pouch

All of Husky’s tool bags and accessories deserve a call-out, but I am particularly excited about this one. (I have a review in the works – please let me know if you have any questions!)

I picked one up on impulse last month, and this is just perfect as a compact tool tote. It measures 5″ in diameter and has a total of 10 tool pockets, plus a drawstring top.

It’s wide enough to stand upright without tipping over, and tall enough to ensure common hand tools don’t fall out unintentionally.

This isn’t a game-changer, but it’s definitely a frustration-solver.

Price: $6.47

Buy Now via Home Depot

Reader Recommendations?

A mallet? Scissors? A compact tool pouch? Yeah, I know – I told you these wouldn’t be very glamorous! But, I stick to these recommendations.

If I had a time machine, these are among the top tools and equipment I’d bring back to my younger self.

If you’re a DIYer, or you’re shopping for a DIYer, what other recommendations would you have for tool or workshop upgrades?

Related Posts:

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I have been thinking about the growing complexity in the cordless power tool industry. A couple of years ago, 18V vs. 20V Max (they’re really the same thing) was the biggest source of confusion. Now? There’s a lot more to it.

For the sake of this post, we’ll only be looking at 5 brands – Bosch, Dewalt, Makita, Metabo HPT, and Milwaukee.

Original Post Date: 2/11/2020
Latest Update: 6/1/2021

Bosch 18V

Bosch has recently started promoting their new line of Profactor cordless power tools, which is an extension of their 18V cordless power tool system.

Before that, Bosch had been emphasizing their next-gen Core18V batteries, which are basically larger form-factor and higher capacity battery packs. Profactor seems to be a way of remarketing the Core18V product line.

There are also a couple of Bosch “BiTurbo” tools that only achieve peak power when paired with a Core18V 8.0Ah to 12.0Ah battery.

In 2019, I wondered about the types of new tools Bosch’s 12.0Ah battery might power, and now we know – this will be an exclusive high capacity for the Bosch Profactor line of cordless power tools. Why? They won’t say.

Bosch still seems to be chasing after competitors, and time will tell as to whether Profactor is a success story or not.

See More on Bosch 18V Cordless Power Tools

Dewalt 20V Max & FlexVolt

As you are probably aware, Dewalt’s FlexVolt lineup is their heavier duty cordless power tool system, featuring a 60V Max battery that can also be used with their 20V Max tools and chargers.

You can’t use 20V Max batteries in Dewalt FlexVolt tools, but one-way compatibility is still very much appreciated.

Dewalt has blurred the line a little bit this year, with new 20V Max FlexVolt Advantage and Power Detect tools that deliver a performance boost when paired with higher capacity 20V Max of FlexVolt batteries. These tools don’t quite deliver FlexVolt-level power, but they come close, and are fully part of the 20V Max system.

Dewalt recently announced a new FlexVolt 15Ah battery, and I’m very much of the opinion that this won’t just be about a new battery but a new level of tool performance as well. We’ll see.

See More on: Dewalt  20V Max Tools || FlexVolt Power Tools

Makita 18V, 18VX2, XGT 40V Max

Makita has their 18V cordless power tool lineup, and also 18VX2 tools. 18VX2 (36V equivalent) tools tend to be a little bulky, and Makita has reached tech limits as to how much power they can squeeze out of 18V battery packs without stepping up to larger form factor cells.

Makita USA has said they they don’t plan on ever releasing next-gen compact 4.0Ah or 8.0Ah LXT battery packs to the 18V system, which is disappointing and positions them far behind competitors.

Following lengthy delays, Makita launched their 40V Max XGT system, a 36V Li-ion system that is completely incompatible with their 18V system. Makita’s 18V and X2 tool developments seem to be slowing down, but the brand insists they haven’t reached the end of the road yet.

Makita’s XGT launch was a contradictory mess, with press presentations entirely focused on comparisons to Milwaukee’s MX Fuel and Dewalt FlexVolt systems, with claims that XGT will be a true “One Battery System” unlike competing brands’ systems. But, it’s not.

Makita USA also pointed to competitors’ larger battery sizes, exclaiming that they cannot be comfortably paired with smaller tools such as an impact driver. But how is this larger and heavier XGT 5Ah battery impact driver-friendly?

Makita also seems to be pushing their latest and greatest developments into their 18V form-factor 36V/40V Max XGT lineup, with 18V LXT equivalents having less frills and features. I can understand an 18V-sized 36V battery delivering more performance, but what’s the excuse for not giving flagship 18V tools the best features? This wouldn’t be so concerning if there were an XGT to 18V adapter of some kind, but there isn’t one and Makita won’t discuss why.

Publicly, Makita USA has been touting the XGT lineup’s features, such as “rare earth magnets,” “pure copper wire,” built-in microchips,” and “digital communications” – basic technologies also found in competing brands’ brushless power tools.

At least they’re not drawing comparisons to their ancient NiCad line as they do with their 18V LXT and 18V X2 systems.

Makita looks to be the first brand to build deterrents into their tools and batteries, to limit performance or charging capacity of 3rd party XGT batteries. It will be interesting to see if this becomes a trend.

See More on Makita 18V Cordless Power Tools || 18V X2 || XGT

Metabo HPT 18V and MultiVolt

Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi) has their 18V line, and new MultiVolt 36V/18V line.

Similar to the relationship between Dewalt’s 20V Max and FlexVolt system, Metabo HPT’s MultiVolt batteries are compatible with their new 36V tools and also their existing 18V tools. 18V batteries won’t work in the 36V tools.

And, there’s a MultiVolt AC adapter for users who need unlimited runtime and don’t mind being plugged in.

The brand has recently come out with an industry-first full-size router, and there’s plenty of potential for more “firsts.”

Other innovations, such as their compact reciprocating saw, are an interesting deviation from the typical specs race most brands compete in.

Metabo HPT’s cordless platforms are easy to follow, but there’s one major common confusion, and that’s the name. Those in-the-know are aware that Metabo HPT used to be Hitachi Power Tools, but plenty of people mistakenly think Metabo and Metabo HPT are the same when they’re not.

See More on Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Power Tools

Milwaukee M18

Milwaukee’s M18 system is straightforward, and perhaps the easiest cordless power tool lineup to make sense of.

Read More: Milwaukee M18 Cordless Power Tool Battery Sizes Explained

Here are their battery options:

Compact (CP)

• 1.5Ah
• 2.0Ah
• 3.0Ah – High Output

Extended Capacity (XC)

• 3.0Ah
• 4.0Ah
• 5.0Ah
• 6.0Ah – High Output
• 8.0Ah – High Output

High Demand (HD)

• 9.0Ah
• 12.0Ah  – High Output

Basically, you go with the compact battery for light duty tools, XC batteries for heavier duty tools, and HD batteries for highest power tools. The compact High Output battery can be used in lieu of the XC tools for all of the core tools, and the XC High Output batteries can be used in their heaviest duty tools in place of the HD 9.0Ah battery. The 12.0Ah battery provides the highest power and longest runtime.

There’s a little more to keep track of, but every M18 battery fits in every tool. No, a standard XC battery isn’t the best pairing for tools optimized for the HD battery, but it’ll work. For instance, you can use an M18 5.0Ah battery with the brand’s M18 Fuel cordless table saw, but HD and High Output batteries are the better choice for more taxing cuts.

Milwaukee also has their MX FUEL cordless power equipment system, which is an entirely different class of tools that 18V tech simply cannot power.

See More on Milwaukee M18 Cordless Power Tools

Apples vs. Oranges

Comparing the different cordless power tool systems is getting more complicated.

It appears that Bosch and Milwaukee are following similar paths for their 18V systems. On one hand, users have to properly match the battery to the tool and application, but on the other hand, you have full system compatibility.

Dewalt and Metabo HPT are following similar paths, where you have higher-powered tools that require higher-voltage batteries. The batteries are one-way cross-compatible with 18V tools.

Neither approach is really better than the other, they’re just different.

Then you have Makita, with their 18V and 18VX2 tools, and now 40V Max XGT. The incompatibility between 18V and 40V Max tools and batteries is a big downside. Except for the optional charging adapter, XGT is a completely separate system, and this is a huge competitive disadvantage given the one-way compatibility Dewalt and Metabo HPT built into their higher voltage systems.

Dewalt FlexVolt vs. Milwaukee M18 has been an interesting comparison, but also a difficult one. It’ll be interesting to see which brand raises the ceiling next, but I have a feeling it will be Dewalt with their 15Ah battery.

See Also: Dewalt FlexVolt vs. Milwaukee M18 High Demand Cordless Power Tool Systems, Revisited

The “more volts are better” argument doesn’t really apply anymore, with Milwaukee especially going to great lengths to squeeze as much as they can from 18V systems. Milwaukee could potentially double-up on batteries, but the same could be said about Dewalt – don’t forget that they launched FlexVolt with a couple of 120V Max (60V Max x 2) tools.

Metabo HPT’s MultiVolt 36V battery has an 18V form factor, and can power their 18V cordless power tools. Plus there’s the AC adapter.

Makita’s XGT 40V Max (36V) battery is also an 18V form factor, but will not work with anything but XGT tools. Complicating the matter is that when they start releasing XGT single-battery versions of 18V X2 tools, runtime will be greatly diminished unless larger and heavier batteries are used. Even then, going from 18V X2 to 36/40V Max will likely be a side-grade.

Bosch’s Profactor tools launched a few years after they were announced, and they kept the unconventional branding such as FREAK, Hitman, and Surgeon.

Things will only get more complex as the brands take different approaches towards higher performance “cordless jobsite” solutions.

Which approach to higher performance tools do you prefer or find most appealing?

If you haven’t upgraded yet, or would make different decisions, would you go with an “everything fits” system, a dual-voltage system with one-way compatibility, or two separate systems?

Related Posts:

Best Cordless Power Tool Brand in 2021 Dewalt FlexVolt vs. Milwaukee M18 High Demand Cordless Power Tool Systems, Revisited Which is the Most Popular Searched-for Cordless Power Tool Brand? (Spring 2019)

Over at Ohio Power Tool, they have this Metabo 18V cordless drill kit for just $89. But wait – there’s more – you also get free shipping and a free Bluetooth radio!

A long time ago, Metabo had an 18V Quick cordless drill kit, and I thought it was a great buy at $149. The current model, BS 18 L QUICK 2.0, has a better chuck (1/2″ vs. 3/8″), faster speeds, and a little more torque.

The drill also comes with Metabo’s “Quick” interface. The drill chuck can be removed to reveal a 1/4″ hex screwdriver chuck. AND, it also comes with a right angle attachment.

Key Features & Specs

• 1/2″ drill chuck
• Metabo “Quick” interface
• Included right angle adapter
• 0-450/0-1800 RPM
• 442 in-lbs max torque
• Kit SKU: 602320620

The kit comes with a belt clip, 2.0Ah battery, charger (627046000), and hard carrying case, plus the drill chuck and right angle attachment.

The included charger seems to be Metabo’s typical “air cooled” charger (as per the catalog number), which can charge a 1.5Ah battery in 30 minutes.

$89 seems to be a very good price for this kit!

On top of that, you ALSO get a FREE Metabo 18V Bluetooth jobsite radio, model 600777520. It has AM and FM radio tuners and Bleutooth connectivity for streaming from your smartphone or tablet.

The radio works with Metabo 12V and 18V slide-on battery packs, and also comes with an AC adapter.

Lastly, everything ships for free.

Add the drill kit to your cart and the free radio is automatically added.

Price: $89 shipped

Buy Now via Ohio Power Tool
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Compare via Amazon

Acme Tools recently had the drill kit priced at $69 (thank you, Luke!), but they sold out before I could post about it. Other retailers seem to have this kit at $99 and without any free bonuses.

This is incredibly aggressive pricing by Metabo, and it doesn’t look like they cut corners anywhere – this is their standard 18V Quick 2.0 cordless drill, with standard battery size and 18V charger.

No, it’s not brushless, but the quick chuck and right angle attachment make a compelling argument in favor of this kit, not to mention its compact size and respectable performance specs.

$89 shipped for the drill kit and bonus Bluetooth radio seems to be a fantastic deal.

I can’t see a catch here, can you?

I find myself trying to think of any friends or family members who might be needing a new or first-time cordless drill. The deal seems too good to pass up!

*Thumbs up* to Ohio Power Tool and Metabo – keep the tool deals coming!

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