Metabo PowerMaxx BS 12
Main characteristics:
- Chuck type. quick-clamping;
- Maximum torque, (Nm). 40;
- Battery capacity, (Ah). 2;
- Battery type. Li-Ion;
- The number of batteries included. 2.
Body and ergonomics. This compact model is shortened in length and weighs only 1 kg. It has a raised grip, good balance and a wide launch key. It can be placed vertically without fear of dust getting into the interior. A well-positioned light bulb at the base of the handle provides good illumination of the work area Provided with a metal hook for carrying on a belt.
Engine, gearbox, battery. The reliable brush motor does not overheat even when drilling holes in metal up to 10 mm in diameter. The two-speed gearbox provides a spindle speed of up to 360 or 1400 rpm. Keyless chuck is designed for tooling sizes 1-10 mm.
The torque is adjustable and reaches a maximum of 40 Nm. Two lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 2 Ah have no memory effect and are not prone to self-discharge.
Metabo PowerMaxx BS 12 complete set.
Functional. The model is equipped with a reverse, dynamic brake, spindle lock.
Pros of Metabo PowerMaxx BS 12
- Compact dimensions.
- Convenient design.
- Large torque.
- Reliable materials.
- Two powerful batteries with charge level indication.
- Case and charging station included.
Cons of Metabo PowerMaxx BS 12
- The manufacturer saved on the quality of the plastic for the suitcase.
Best 14.4V screwdrivers
Such devices can already be classified as professional. They are able to help make holes of various diameters, as well as fix hardware. And no longer at home, but, say, in a workshop. Or during construction work.
DeWALT DCD791P2
Main characteristics:
- Chuck type. quick-clamping;
- Maximum torque, (Nm). 70;
- Battery capacity, (Ah). five;
- Battery type. Li-Ion;
- The number of batteries included. 2.
Body and ergonomics. This model is housed in a compact plastic case with a raised rubber grip. It can be carried on a belt, which is convenient when working at height and frequent movements. The handle has a built-in LED flashlight, the brightness of which can be adjusted. Due to the increased power, the tool weighs 1.7 kg.
Engine, gearbox, battery. The screwdriver is powered by a brushless electric motor that does not overheat even with intensive use. It has two speeds with smooth acceleration up to 550 and 2000 rpm. To increase the operating time, two lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 5 Ah are used.
Keyless chuck is made entirely of high quality steel. The maximum torque of 70 Nm allows you to work with self-tapping screws of any running size.
DeWALT DCD791P2 complete set.
Functional. A tool with a shank diameter of up to 13 mm is inserted into the screwdriver. It is powerful enough to drill 40 mm round holes in wood. Reverse and motor brake option available.
Pros of DeWALT DCD791P2
- Powerful and reliable electric motor.
- Full metal gear and chuck.
- Electronic speed control.
- Large battery capacity.
- Adjustable backlight brightness.
Case.
Cons of DeWALT DCD791P2
- High price.
- Perceptible weight.
Metabo BS 14.4
Main characteristics:
- Chuck type. quick-clamping;
- Maximum torque, (Nm). 40;
- Battery capacity, (Ah). 2;
- Battery type. Li-Ion;
- The number of batteries included. 2.
Body and ergonomics. The plastic surfaces of the side elements of the body and the handle of this model are rubberized, which not only contributes to a comfortable grip, but also prevents the tool from slipping off inclined surfaces. Also included is a metal clip used when wearing a screwdriver on a hip belt and a pair of slots for storing spare bits or drills.
The ergonomic shape with a weight of 1.2 kg does not cause fatigue for the master during the whole working day. LED flashlight relieves all low light problems.
Engine, gearbox, battery. A reliable brush motor is combined with a two-speed gearbox, allowing you to smoothly gain spindle speed up to 400 or 1500 cycles per minute. It uses a traditional hand-tightened chuck to speed up tool changes. It accepts cylindrical or hex shanks up to 10 mm in diameter.
By turning the ratchet, the drilling mode is selected or any of 20 options for the magnitude of the torque, which reaches 40 Nm in the extreme position. Two 2Ah lithium-ion slide-type batteries charge in just 1 hour each. The state of charge can be monitored by the indicator.
Metabo BS 14.4 complete set.
Functional. The reverse option allows you to unscrew the fasteners. The spindle lock facilitates easy bit change. The special technology of the charger prevents excessive heating of the battery during charging, which increases the battery life.
Pros of Metabo BS 14.4
- Wide speed capabilities.
- High torque.
- Batteries universal for most Metabo tools.
- Gentle battery charging.
- Convenient backlight.
Cons of Metabo BS 14.4
- Relatively high cost.
- Perceptible noise.
Varieties of batteries
Nickel cadmium (NiCd). The largest dimensions, which is not always convenient for reasons of compactness, have batteries called nickel-cadmium and designated “NiCd”. They are quite cheap and work like a clock – without failures, both at high temperatures and at sub-zero temperatures. You can charge them an impressive number of times. But the memory effect present here can serve as an unkind service, in order to avoid which such a battery is sent for storage completely discharged, to zero. Charging is also carried out only when the battery is completely drained..
Memory effect. this is a loss of battery capacity and, as a consequence, its shorter use between recharges. If you do not wait until the battery is completely discharged, it is recharged again, it “remembers” that it was not completely used up and in the future it will not give all the energy, but only the amount that reaches this limit. You have to constantly monitor the battery charge level. Owners of the tool with such batteries often ignore this moment, as a result, part of the capacity is gradually lost..
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH). Rechargeable batteries, called nickel metal hydride batteries, are labeled with the letters “NiMH”. They are 100 percent environmentally friendly and weigh very little. Another significant advantage is their ability to work long enough without requiring recharging. The memory effect of these batteries is present, but not as pronounced as in the previous type.
Alas – they also have a significant disadvantage. This is the inability to withstand frost. Even when it’s only minus two degrees outside, such a battery starts to discharge on its own. Do not store the screwdriver in a garage without heating or in a car trunk. For storage, this type of battery also needs to be charged.
Lithium-ion (Li-Ion). The third type of battery is lithium-ion. Labeled “Li-Ion”. They appeared later than everyone else – in 1991, in mass production, becoming the brainchild of the Japanese corporation Sony. They are distinguished by the absolute absence of memory effect, high capacity and long-term retention of the charge. They weigh forty percent less than the analogs described above. They can be charged in any state – at any charge level. Such batteries are often put on professional models, especially on screwdrivers combined with a drill..
BOSCH GSR 12V-15 FC
Main characteristics:
Screwdrivers Top 5 Need to Know Before You Buy
- Chuck type. under the bits;
- Maximum torque, (Nm). thirty;
- Battery capacity, (Ah). 2;
- Battery type. Li-Ion;
- The number of batteries included. 2.
Body and ergonomics. A universal tool for working with drills and bits for various purposes. It has a modular design, consisting of a body with a handle weighing 0.6 kg and a set of attachments. All elements are covered with embossed plastic and rubber on the outside, which improves grip, excluding slipping. In case of poor lighting, there is an LED backlight.
BOSCH GSR 12V-15 FC complete set.
Engine, gearbox, battery. The power of the brush motor is sufficient for drilling holes up to 30 mm in wood and screwing self-tapping screws with a diameter of up to 7 mm into it. He has two speed modes at 400 and 1300 rpm. Maximum torque 30 Nm. During operation, you can alternately use two batteries with a capacity of 2 Ah.
Functional. Depending on the working conditions, you can use the keyless chuck, slot for standard bits, angle and eccentric attachments. Battery level is monitored by an indicator on the handle.
An example of BOSCH GSR 12V-15 FC operation with an angle attachment.
Pros of BOSCH GSR 12V-15 FC
- Excellent equipment for professional work.
- Lightweight case made of durable plastic with individual compartments for accessories.
- Comfortable grip.
- Large torque.
- Good build.
- Backlight.
Cons BOSCH GSR 12V-15 FC
- High price.
- Can’t manually turn off the backlight.
Makita DF347DWE
Main characteristics:
- Chuck type. quick-clamping;
- Maximum torque, (Nm). thirty;
- Battery capacity, (Ah). 1.5;
- Battery type. Li-Ion;
- The number of batteries included. 2.
Body and ergonomics. This model has a reinforced structure and therefore weighs 1.4 kg. The outer surfaces of the body and handle are embossed, which contributes to confident handling of the tool.
Engine, gearbox, battery. The product is equipped with an efficient air-cooled brush motor. The two-speed gearbox gives an output speed of 400 or 1400 rpm. The speed gain within the selected gear depends on the degree of pressing the start key. Keyless chuck requires a minimum of time to change tooling.
The selection of the optimal mode is carried out using a torque regulator with a maximum value of 23 Nm. Two rechargeable batteries with a capacity of 1.5 Ah, when used alternately with recharging, allow for almost non-stop operation.
Makita DF347DWE complete set.
Functional. The tool can be used when drilling holes in metal and wood with a diameter of 10 and 25 mm, respectively, or for working with screws up to 6 mm thick. Electronic motor brake and fast direction change for high productivity and precision in any operation.
Pros of Makita DF347DWE
- High power.
- Convenient form.
- Reliable batteries.
- Easy adjustment of speed and torque.
- Sturdy suitcase with individual storage space.
- Acceptable cost.
Cons of Makita DF347DWE
- Chuck not for precision drilling. There is a backlash.
- Cam mechanism weakens over time.
- No backlight.
- Expensive spare parts.
What power to choose a screwdriver
The power of the screwdriver is directly related to its performance..
The higher the voltage and capacity of the battery, the greater its weight and dimensions. For example, a 12-volt screwdriver battery can have as few as three lithium-ion cans, while an 18-volt battery requires at least five. Accordingly, the weight and size of the tool increase immediately. Therefore, if you cannot choose which screwdriver to choose, 12 or 18 volts, then think about the ease of use and purpose of the tool..
How to choose a screwdriver for home
So, which screwdriver to choose for the home, or rather, how to choose the right screwdriver for the home.
It is worth noting that for domestic use of a screwdriver, some technical parameters are important, and for a professional one – more powerful and expensive.
At the same time, you do not need to choose the cheapest and weakest model for your home, since any intensive work for several hours can lead to burnout of electronics in versions with weak power. Therefore, it is difficult to answer which budget screwdriver to choose..
For example, how to choose a screwdriver for assembling furniture, so that it is easy to use even for a beginner. Firstly, it is important that the screwdriver is comfortable for you to hold in your hand and weighs a little.
In another case, how to choose a screwdriver for building a house. This requires a professional approach and a more powerful tool..
How to choose a cordless screwdriver
Let’s start with how to choose a cordless screwdriver for home.
In cordless tools, the power source is a battery that is charged from an electrical outlet. A big plus of cordless tools is their mobility. You will not need to move your workplace closer to the outlet or through an electrical extension cord to “pull energy” to the desired place.
You often ask how to choose the right cordless screwdriver and with which battery to choose a cordless screwdriver. It’s very simple, because one of the most important parameters in cordless screwdrivers is the battery capacity..
For example, the YATO YT-82788 two-speed cordless impact driver has a 2 Ah battery capacity (very good in its class). Moreover, this screwdriver is charged in just 60 minutes. It is also worth noting that such a cordless screwdriver performs as many as three functions: drilling, hammer drilling and, of course, screwing.
Therefore, if you are still in doubt about choosing a screwdriver or impact drill, then this one tool can fulfill the functions of these two tools..
How to choose a network screwdriver
Compared to cordless tools, the cordless screwdriver is renowned for its much higher performance, as well as the fact that it can work without interruption..
But still, before choosing a good network screwdriver, you need to familiarize yourself with all its technical indicators..
If you are faced with a choice of which inexpensive cordless screwdriver is better to choose, then it is recommended to purchase a tool with at least average power and ergonomics..
How to choose the right screwdriver
The screwdriver is one of the indispensable tools during any construction professional and household work. And before choosing a screwdriver, you need to think carefully about all the details of the purchase and weigh all the pros and cons, taking into account the key features of future tasks.
In this article:
- Types of screwdrivers
- How to choose a screwdriver for home
- How to choose a screwdriver for the job
- Which screwdriver to choose
- How to choose a cordless screwdriver
- How to choose a network screwdriver
- Which screwdriver to choose brush or brushless
- What power to choose a screwdriver
- Which firm screwdriver to choose
Which screwdriver to choose
After you have read all the technical characteristics, the question arises, which screwdriver to choose.
Another rather interesting area where screwdrivers are used is fishing..
Often, winter fishing enthusiasts use a screwdriver to drill holes, which will significantly speed up the ice drilling process.
But which screwdriver for an ice screw to choose? Definitely, for an environment where there is no access to electrical outlets, you need to take a cordless tool.
How To Choose the Correct Screwdriver – By Stanley Tools
It is also important to have a spare unit with you and that both batteries are kept warm when fishing, for example, under clothing. This will avoid excessive cooling and loss of capacity..
Which screwdriver to choose brush or brushless
The principle of operation, like the screwdriver itself, has not changed for many years. But, not so long ago, brushless models of screwdrivers appeared..
Types of screwdrivers
Firstly, all screwdrivers are divided according to the power supply method into:
It’s very simple: the rechargeable battery weighs a little, charges quickly and does not “tie” you to an outlet.
In addition to cordless screwdrivers, cordless screwdrivers are no less popular. And then the question immediately arises, which network screwdriver is better to choose.
The mains powered tool is powered directly from the mains. Among the advantages of network tools, one can single out the fact that they will work as long as you need without recharging..
For example, customers often ask how to choose a cordless screwdriver for the home. We will answer this question in the next paragraph..
Best network screwdrivers
Bort BAB-14N-1
An inexpensive offer with all the functions you need in everyday life. Its advantages:
- compact size and ergonomic shape of the handle;
- the presence of a reverse;
- smooth control of rotation speed;
- torque 15 Nm;
- battery with a capacity of 1, 2 A.
The model is easy to operate and great for home use. A decent quality device for a reasonable price. Among the disadvantages is low efficiency when working with metals.
Best cordless screwdrivers
Interskol DA-10 / 14.4M2
The powerful model has a number of advantages, including:
- keyless chuck with a range of 0.8.10 mm;
- Ni-Cd battery (14.4 V);
- 2 speeds;
- the ability to drill holes in metal and wood with a diameter of 10 to 25 mm;
The ergonomic handle is a practical addition. One of the most powerful battery-powered devices, it is also suitable for drilling holes in materials of various densities. Disadvantage – high price.
Top 14 screwdrivers
In general, a screwdriver is a device almost as versatile as a screwdriver or a hammer. Not a single repair or construction can do without it. A good device effortlessly copes with tasks such as installing audio or television equipment, installing baseboards or drywall, assembling furniture, attaching shelves and paintings, installing door handles and much more. The presence of a screwdriver, at the same time, makes the process not only faster, but also of higher quality. A correctly selected model will help to cope with the task in a few minutes. How do you choose the optimal solution? View my list of the best home screwdrivers.
The best drills and screwdrivers
Models that combine the function of drilling and tightening fasteners are referred to as universal devices. They seriously expand the owner’s capabilities when performing repair and construction work in everyday life. Considering that some models can replace nozzles, such devices can easily cope with mixing paint and varnish and concrete mixtures, drilling hard materials at inconvenient angles and other difficulties..
Bosch GSB 18 V-EC 06019E9100
Cordless impact drill. The main advantages of this device:
- all-metal cartridge;
- brushless motor;
- hard screwdriving due to a torque of 60 nm;
- possibility of smooth transition from minimum speed to 600 rpm.
Another advantage is the charging time of the device – 65 minutes. The disadvantage is the lack of a battery in the model package.