Drill Drivers

[John King]

I need a new cordless drill driver. My only requirement is compact 18v lithium-ion battery. I have found two drill drivers that meet my needs - Milwaukee and Makita. They have essentially the same specifications/performance. So, here's the question.

What does your experience with power tools say about Milwaukee vs Makita?

Which, in your opinion, is likely to be the more reliable, long lasting tool?

Appreciate and look forward to any thoughts/comments you may have. - John

 

[blackhorse]

Did you consider Panasonic? I think they're the best.

 

[rbieniek]

Have you looked at the Bosch's? They are well built, and are made in Switzerland...

 

[Richard Baker]

John,
No doubt you have posted on one or more of the regular woodworking forums too?
Meanwhile, I have been well satisfied with performance of two 12 volt Makita drills. When needing a couple new batteries for the original drill I found that the price of a "reconditioned" drill "kit" was about the same as just getting new batteries, so purchased the kit. Included 2 NiMH batteries, charger, drill, and flashlight. The latter has been handy, and I see that the flashlight alone now sells for about half what I paid for the "kit". This is not a recommendation, just a report.
Have never owned a Milwaukee tool, so can't compare. They are too pricey for me (just my opinion), but assume they are good quality. Wish Makita made 12v lithium-ion batteries, but have not seen them. No doubt they would prefer that I buy a new 18 volt tool.

 

[Jake Debski]

I need a new cordless drill driver. My only requirement is compact 18v lithium-ion battery. I have found two drill drivers that meet my needs - Milwaukee and Makita. They have essentially the same specifications/performance. So, here's the question.

What does your experience with power tools say about Milwaukee vs Makita?

Which, in your opinion, is likely to be the more reliable, long lasting tool?

Appreciate and look forward to any thoughts/comments you may have. - John

Both of those mentioned are well respected brands. I have never used the 18v. versions of the two you mention. I used an 18v. yellow one for a day, working overhead, too heavy for my taste. I have boughten and extensively used the Panasonic 12v. back when I had a real job. I think more importantly than the 18v. you should look for the amp hour rating for both or any drill you are thinking of purchasing. The amp/hrs determine how long the batteries will last in use before recharging is necessary.