Cordless Tool Review
This is a very touchy subject, I understand this. So before we begin let me say, this is my opinion and only my opinion.
Let’s get into it then. At H&S Plumbing, we use all DeWalt. This is because they are cheap and do the job they are made to do. As a plumber, we are probably in some of the worst places to put tools. That is why we get DeWalt.
There is a bunch of brands to choose from. Here is a list of the top brands that I see on the job. DeWalt, Hilti, Milwaukee, Ridged, Ryobi, Black and Deckard. That’s some of the brands, in no particular order. I’ll hit on the ones that I have personally used.
Hilti
This brand to me is one of the lower end ones. They seem to break easier and are a little more difficult to use. For a home owner this is probably an alright choice but you will have to get used to using them. They are awkward, some tools are bulky, and just don’t seem to fit in my hands.
Milwaukee
Milwaukee makes some of the best tools. I enjoy working with them, the cordless seam more compact, fit my hands well and have the power you are looking for. The price tag on Milwaukee tools though are one of the highest. All I can say is you get what you pay for. The cordless tools are just as good as the corded. The batteries last longer than most, as in the life of them not the charge. The charge is still very good but I have never tested to see which one holds a charge better.
Ridged
Ridged is starting to catch up in quality. The Brush-less has made these amazing. They are affordable but on the high end. I believe that they are the only ones that have a lifetime warranty on the batteries. Which is great for jobs around the house. Because you will leave your batteries fully charged in your garage until you need them again. This kills batteries, but with the warranty just send it back and get a new one. I have never had to send my batteries back for warranty, so if you have please leave me some information on it. The process, how it was dealing with the warranty department. Anything will help. I think ridged caters to the plumbers of the world, they have an extensive line of plumbing tools. They make our vices, drain augers, drain cameras, and a whole slew of hand tools. If it says ridged, I, as a plumber trust that it will be built for the elements that I put them into. They do rust, but always work when you need them. The oldest hand tools I own are ridged.
Ryobi
This one I haven’t had much contact with I just know they are out there. I see some electricians with them. I believe that it’s because of how inexpensive they are. If you own a Ryobi and would like to comment I would love to hear from you. What is your opinion of them? Is some tools better than others?
Black & Deckard
These tools are cheap in all aspects. They are built more for homeowners that do not have much of a use for them once they have their project completed. I really don’t like using them.
I have been holding this one back for a little while, because it’s such a touchy subject. Just remember this is my opinion, I am not being paid by any of these brands to write this. Let me know your thoughts on your favorite brand of tools, and the reasoning behind it. Why did you invest $300+ on the brand of tool that is in your toolbox, garage, or where ever you keep it.
