Sporting the longest running 28-volt hammer drill on the market, Milwaukee's V28 lithium-ion cordless kit is always charged up for the beefiest drilling and driving applications. The tool switches easily between drill, drive, and hammer modes for less downtime and smoother transitions between tasks. This ½-inch hammer drill cranks out a whopping 600 inch-pounds of torque for drilling large holes and driving heavy bolts for deck support, playground equipment, and post-and-beam construction. The two variable speeds do it fast, too, spinning along at 0-600 or 0-1800 rpm's for more productivity. Powering the V28 is Milwaukee's revolutionary 28-Volt Lithium-Ion battery pack. The 28-volt battery pack weighs less than an 18-volt NiCad pack yet delivers twice the runtime. And, a patented battery design lets you insert the battery in the reverse position for optimal balance when working overhead or in hard-to-reach areas. The V28 hammer-drill comes standard with a ½-inch all-metal, single-sleeve, ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws that keep bits from falling out or slipping. A comfortable non-slip, soft-grip handle reduces vibration and fatigue. For easy transport and access, Milwaukee's patented Clip-Lok system attaches the tool securely to the operator's belt or tool bag and easily releases with one hand—a boon for ladder work where there's is nowhere safe to rest the tool. Milwaukee cover's this kit with a 5-year warranty. -Brian Olson What's in the Box28-volt hammer drill, two 28-volt batteries, 1-hour charger, carrying case, Clip-Lok System, side handle and No. 2 Phillips bit.

Measuring just 10 inches long and weighing less than five pounds, the DV18CL is about the same size as a comparable 12-volt model. It's worth noting that hammer drills are really three tools in one: a variable-speed, reversing drill; a power screwdriver with an adjustable slip clutch; and a hammer-drill. The hammer drill simultaneously applies rotation action and percussive force to the drill bit, which allows you to quickly and effortlessly bore holes through brick, concrete and other rock-hard masonry surfaces. The Hitachi DV18DL comes with two 18-volt lithium-ion batteries, a quick charger, auxiliary side handle, screwdriver tip and carrying case. It's covered by Hitachi's industry-leading 5-year warranty. - Joseph Truini DV18DL, 18V, Lithium-ion, Hammer, Powerful & Lightweight, 570 INLBS Of Torque & Weighs Only 4. 6 LBS, 4 Stage Speed Selection, Switch Into High/Low Gear On Top & Then Select Fast/Slow Mode With A Thumb Actuated Switch, 3. 0AH Lithium-ion Battery, Interchangeable Battery Can Be Used In The New Lithium-ion Tools Or The Current Dmr/dvf3 Platform, New Universal Charger, Features An Internal Cooling Fan That Keeps Lithium-ion Batteries Cool When Charging.

A steel ring is provided for attachment to the top of the tool. Use it to conveniently raise or lower the tool with a rope when working from a ladder, roof or other elevated position. The wrench is a little over 12 inches long, but Milwaukee cleverly fitted this tool with reversible batteries that slide on from either the front or rear. When the battery is mounted on the front, the tool is a bit shorter. Sliding it on from the rear moves the battery back, allowing the wrench to reach into tighter spaces. Note that you must use heavy-duty impact sockets with this cordless wrench. Standard sockets aren't recommended because they could shatter during use. Joseph TruiniWhat's in the Box:Milwaukee 0779-22 1/2-inch impact wrench, two 28-volt lithium-ion batteries, a one-hour charger, hanger bracket, quick-change detent kit, carrying case, owner's manual.

Founded in 1935 by industrialist J. W. Leslie, Paslode introduced the very first pneumatic tool - a light duty upholstery tacker - in 1959. Shortly thereafter, Paslode produced the first commercially accepted pneumatic nailer, The Gun-Nailer, providing the construction industry with a cost efficient way to increase productivity and reduce worker fatigue. Since then, Paslode has expanded its product lineup to include a comprehensive selection of pneumatic and cordless nail guns, staplers, fasteners, and more.

And when it's switched to the hammer mode, this tool will quickly bore through the hardest concrete, brick or stone. The 6-1/2-inch circular saw is arguably the most powerful cordless saw on the market. According to Milwaukee, this saw can crosscut more than 300 pine 2 by 4s on a single charge. It's equipped with a high-speed 4,200-rpm motor that chews through wood like a corded saw. The cordless Sawzall recip saw is an ideal tool for remodelers, plumbers, and electricians. When fitted with the appropriate blade, it'll cut practically any building material, including nail-embedded wood, metal ducts, plastic pipe, steel rods and roof shingles. Its two-speed, variable-speed motor (zero to 2,000, and zero to 3,000 strokes per minute) lets you choose the optimum cutting speed for the material. The saw has an aggressive 1-1/8-inch stroke length, and is equipped with a tool-free blade clamp and keyless adjustable shoe. The work light comes in handy when working in dark spaces. It has a super-bright xenon bulb that runs over five hours on a single charge. All four pieces come with the patented Clip-Lok System, which allows you to securely hook the tool onto your belt or tool pouch. Besides the four tools, the 0928-29 combo kit also includes two 28-volt lithium-ion batteries, a one-hour charger, saw blades and screwdriver tips, and an oversized canvas storage bag. - Joseph Truini.

The rip fence is sturdy for a nice, accurate cut, and blade changes are fast and easy because of the spindle lock. It's got a no-load speed of 3,500 rpm, and even at 45 degrees, you're getting a 1-1/8-inch depth of cut. The reciprocating saw is just a blast, especially if you're used to dragging a corded model around, into basements and up ladders. It's plenty powerful, too, whether you're cutting into wood or metal. We like the keyless clamp for quick, simple blade changes and the electric brake for the time it saves. The flashlight's wide-angle beam lights up your workspace, whether you're up in the rafters or in the crawlspace. The head pivots a full 90 degrees, and the Xenon bulb illuminates with strong, bright white light. It's got a decent enough run time of about three hours on a charged battery, and the bulb will last about 110 hours. In all, this is a fantastic buy for the contractor or the ambitious do-it-yourselfer. -Kris Jensen-Van Heste.

This powerful tool has variable speeds, trigger lock-on and an adjustable shoe to extend blade life. This recip saw cuts fast (2,700 strokes per minute) and has a 1-1/8-inch stroke length. Vibration is also low, which makes it more comfortable to use. This 18-volt sawzall has an overload protection clutch to protect the tool during heavy-duty use and a tool-less blade clamp for ease in changing blades. It has a tool-free adjustable shoe to extend blade life and depth-of-cut-control. The balance is a bit off, but when demo-ing with a recip saw, balance is last on your mind. It's light enough not to cause extra fatigue due to a front-heavy design. The handle doesn't have enough room, when using the bulkier type of work gloves. If you use a tight-fitting glove, you should have ample room to work comfortably. Circular SawThis powerful and fast 6-½-inch cordless saw has a responsive blade brake and a 50 degree bevel. The blade guard has a lower lip to catch on the front edge of lumber during bevel cuts, so it retracts as the cut progresses, instead of getting caught and stalling the cut. Hammer Drill This powerful hammer drill boasts 450 in. /lbs. of torque and has a ½-inch chuck with ratcheting carbide jaws to securely clamp the bit when drilling and driving. There is nothing more annoying than to have to stop drilling just to retighten the bit in the chuck. This tool drills faster than most, has anti-slip rubber grips and heavy-duty bit storage on either side of the tool. It feels nice in the hand, but is a bit heavy for a Lithium-Ion tool. This is a very nice drill to use and will conquer any task you throw at it. LightThe light has a long-life, and a very bright Xenon bulb. A nice feature is a belt clip on the light itself, as well as a swivel head for adjusting the light to any angle. There's even a spare bulb under the lens cap! This is a great feature. I can't believe no one has thought of this before. It can take weeks to find the time to order a new bulb. Every work light should have an extra bulb. - Gabriel Shantara Ford.

This means that more battery power will be transferred at a faster rate. I've seen other cordless tools with 2 small contacts and even worse, with loose connections. A tool with loose connections will not perform as advertised and may even cause premature death of the battery. Hammer Drill This hammer drill has more torque than any other 18 volt on the market today, and at 4. 9 pounds it's also lighter than most. Makita redesigned their cordless tools when they released their LXT 18-volt lithium-ion technology. The Makita 4-pole, high-torque motor also delivers more efficient power than the competition, and does so in a more compact size. Most cordless drills only have a 2-pole motor. This cordless sensation comes with Makita's standard externally accessible brushes, so you can change the brushes at home or on site, rather than delivering it or mailing it out for repairs and waiting a week or two. This LXT has an all-metal, 3-speed transmission, producing 25 percent faster working speed. It drills fast through stucco, new concrete, commercial-grade (high psi) concrete, and even in aged concrete. This drill has the best belt clip on the market today. The clip doesn't rotate like it does on other brands, making it hard to remove. The drill stays in place in pants pockets, belts and tool belts with this heavy-duty steel belt clip. It can easily be relocated to the opposite side of the drill for lefties. This hammer drill has the best ergonomics of any 18 volt that I've tested, used or owned. Located just above the trigger, are two "headlights. " Headlights refer to small LED lights that provide light where you need it most. I was skeptical about this feature, thinking it was just another gimmick, but after using it for some time, I've come to depend on it. From lighting my way to the house in the dark, when bringing the batteries/tools on cold nights to providing light in a dark cabinet, closet, or under a desk, this a must-have feature. Rubber grips adorn the exterior of this tool and protect it during impact if it falls. Impact DriverOnce you use an impact driver and discover how light and powerful they are, you'll always reach for one first. They tear through the toughest jobs and still have plenty of power. They are compact too, and get into tight spaces. 18 volts offer the best performance, while remaining a useable weight. This impact driver has the best power-to-weight ratio of any tool. This is an impact driver, not a screw gun/drill-driver. An impact driver provides, on average, four times the amount of torque because it "hammers" the chuck laterally as it turns. Makita uses their patented "hammer and anvil" technology to achieve this, which is one the best systems ever developed. A standard screw gun/drill-driver relies solely on the motor to turn the chuck, providing a 1:1 ratio of motor to output torque. Impact drivers do make more noise than regular drills, which becomes increasingly louder when driving larger fasteners like lag bolts and nuts for j-bolts, but it's not so loud that you have to wear hearing protection. A variable speed trigger gives the user more control when driving smaller screws. Most impact drivers are only single speed, which means that all that torque they have will easily break small screws in half. Use slow speed for small screws and fast speed for large fasteners. This impact driver comes with the same great belt clip and headlights as the hammer drill. Another great feature on this tool is the all-metal, quick-change, hex, Insty bit chuck. The chuck only accepts drill bits and driver bits that have a hex shank at the opposite end of, for example, a no. 2 Phillips driver bit. This really speeds up bit changes. Hex Insty bits have really become the standard and are offered in every drill bit kit available. Rubber grips adorn the exterior of this tool and protect it during impact if it falls. Mine blew off the roof once and suffered no damage. Charger and Batteries This Makita tool has the most advanced charging system available. Generically, it's called a "smart charging system. " A computer chip inside the battery lets the charger know exactly how to optimally charge the battery, to completely charge each cell within the battery and for maximum battery life. Each battery is made up of smaller 1. 2-volt cells. Often a battery will drain unevenly during normal use, at different rates within these internal cells. A normal charger will stop charging the battery when one cell reaches maximum capacity, not all of them. Once this happens once, it will continue to do so as long as you use the battery. What this means is your 18-volt battery is now a 16- or 17-volt battery and it can drop even lower. A "smart charger" will charge every cell independently until each cell is fully charged, so your 18-volt battery will remain 18 volts for its entire life. This charger has a fan in it and blows air through the battery to cool it down before charging so the battery can be charged right away, unlike other brands, where the charger waits until the battery cools, or even worse attempts to charge a hot battery pack and damages it or decreases the life of the battery. These Makita lithium-ion batteries will last 280 percent longer than standard batteries and can be charged over 1400 times, as opposed to the standard of 600 to 800 times, which alone can justify the higher price tag. These slide-in batteries are 3. 0 amp-hr batteries and they will provide power to the tool longer than standard 2. 0 amp-hr batteries. The higher the amp-hr rating, the longer the battery will last before it needs to be recharged. For light-duty applications, these batteries will last all day or even several days before recharging. I leave my charger at home when doing small jobs, because I know I don't need it. The charge stays in the battery without dissipating during non-use and there is so much power in these batteries, I know I'll have enough juice to complete a job. For heavy-duty applications, bring the charger with you just in case. - Gabriel Shantara FordWhat's in the BoxHammer drill; impact driver; LXT Lithium-Ion 3. 0Ah batteries (2); 45-minute optimum charger; carrying case.

0Ah batteries (BL1830), a 30-minute rapid charger (DC18RA), and a rugged contractor's bag to tote and store the whole collection. The Hammer Drill/Driver The BHP452 boasts a Makita-built, 4-pole maximum torque motor that delivers 450 in. /lbs. of torque in a lightweight body. Its Shift-Lock drive system sleeve quickly shifts from "hammer drill" to "driver" mode for swift shifting between projects with less downtime, and the 2-speed design (0-400/0-1500) covers a wide range of drilling and driving applications. This drill/driver's compact design is only 9-1/2 inches long and weighs just 3. 9 pounds, so it won't weigh down your wrist and it's easy to use for long stretches of time. There's even a trigger-forward built-in LED light for a helpful touch of extra light in dark corners. Key Technical Specs: Chuck Size: 1/2-inch No-load RPM: 0-400 (low), 0-1500 (high) BPM in Hammer Mode: 0-6000 (low), 0-22,500 (high) Torque: 450 in. /lbs. Watt hours: 54 The Impact Driver The BTD140 impact driver is stocked with a Makita-built, 4-pole maximum torque motor that delivers 1,280 in. /lbs. of efficient torque in a compact design that's only 5-3/4 inches long. This driver's ergonomic shape fits like a glove and weighs just 3. 3 pounds, for less operator fatigue and better control. This advanced, efficient driver also features a built-in LED light to let you see into all those narrow, dark corners, plus an electric brake for immediate stops and minimized kickback. Its two-piece armature and field, combined with externally accessible brushes, mean easy serviceability and a longer motor life. Key Technical Specs: Hex Shank: 1/4-inch No-load RPM: 0-2300 Impacts/minute: 0-3200 Torque: 1280 in. /lbs. Watt hours: 54 The Reciprocating Saw The BJR182 reciprocating saw comes standard with a Makita-built, D35 high-torque motor that delivers 50-percent faster cutting, with a 1-1/8-inch stroke that cuts at a speed of 2900 SPM. This saw's compact design is only 17-3/4 inches long and weighs just 8. 1 pounds, so it's easy to use and control - even for long periods of time - and its ergonomic shape fits your palm like a glove. This versatile saw offers one-handed, fast and tool-less blade changes and shoe adjustments, plus a two-piece armature and field and externally accessible brushes for simple serviceability and longer motor life. Key Technical Specs: Maximum Cutting Capacity (pipe): 5-1/8 inches Maximum Cutting Capacity (wood): 10 inches Length of stroke: 1-1/8 inch Cutting speed: 0-2900 SPM The Rechargeable Flashlight The BML185 flashlight produces a high-illumination beam that emits high power at 4,500 lux. The Xenon bulb creates extraordinary brightness with the help of the LXT lithium-ion battery. This light boasts a compact design that's only 11-1/8 inches long and weighs less than a pound. Key Technical Specs: Includes shoulder strap and 2 Xenon bulbs Run time: up to 5 hours Net weight (with battery):. 75 pound Warranty The power tools in this collection are all covered by a three-year warranty, and the batteries are covered by a one-year warranty. What's in the Box Makita hammer drill/driver with a tool belt hook; impact driver; reciprocating saw with blades; flashlight with 2 Xenon bulbs and a shoulder strap; 2 LXT lithium-ion batteries; 30-minute charger; contractor's bag. Makita: Dedicated to Quality Makita owes its reputation for building outstanding quality power tools to the drive and determination for excellence that began over 90 years ago as a manufacturer of electric motors. In 1958, Makita introduced their first electric tool. Today Makita is one of the world's largest power tool manufacturers with seven manufacturing facilities globally and a selection of over 350 superior, innovative tools and well over 4,500 accessories.

The DEWALT exclusive 36V nano-phosphate lithium ion battery weighs the same as an 18V NiCd battery, delivers twice the power and runtime of 18V and 2,000 recharges. Kit includes a one-hour charger, two 36 Volt batteries, side handle, rip fence, blades and a heavy duty kitbox. This is a reconditioned power tool. Reconditioned generally means that the tool has been returned to the manufacturer, who brings the tool back to like new condition. Some tools may contain cosmetic blemishes. If you've bought reconditioned tools before, you know well what an incredible deal they are. And if you haven't, this is an awesome set to start with and will save you literally hundreds of dollars. Everything in this kit, from the hammerdrill to the saws and even the flashlight, are just as good as brand-new. Hammerdill/Drill/Driver The hammerdrill/drill/driver packs awesome power with an added benefit: The half-inch chuck self-tightens while in hammer mode throughout operation, giving you the ultimate in bit-gripping strength. Three gears give you the perfect range for any application, with 0 to 6,800, 0 to 20,400 and an amazing 0 to 27,200 blows per minute in hammer mode. Likewise, speed ranges vary from 0 to 400 in low gear, 0 to 1,200 in second and a top range of 0 to 1,600 rpm. It's not overly heavy at about 7 pounds, considering it's powered by a walloping 36-volt battery. (It actually isn't any heavier than a standard 18-volt. ) The balance is actually nice in hand, and there's absolutely no shortage in the power department. Circular Saw and Recip SawIt's a toss-up between the DC300 circular saw and the DC305 recip saw as far as our favorite in this combo. Each one performs superbly, with both massive power and professional finesse. Lever-actuated bevel adjustment on the circular saw is smooth and easy, with a 0- to 50-degree capacity, and there are on-the-money detents at 22-1/2 and 45 degrees. You'll have no complaints with the no-load speed of 4,000 rpm, either. We like the fact that you can change blades quickly and easily without tools and that the shoe and upper guard are constructed of high-strength magnesium. It's a powerhouse that's just a pleasure to use. Likewise, the recip saw is aggressive and graceful all at once, with 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute and a max stroke length of 1-1/8 inches. The coolest feature undoubtedly is the four-position keyless blade clamp for super-easy blade changes and fantastic versatility. It's also easy on your body, keeping you from contorting to reach your workpiece. Instead of you twisting, you twist the blade and let the tool do the work. We like the comfort grip, giving you a secure hold as well as dampening any vibration you might feel. Don't need the full blade stroke? Easily managed with the three-position adjustable shoe - saves blade life, too. Flexible Floodlight Finally, the DC509 flexible floodlight is a particular favorite of ours because of the Flex-Neck design and lockable head clips. It stands alone, it hangs - whatever you need it to do. The beam is quite a bit brighter and broader than that of a conventional flashlight because of the wide-angle Xenon bulb. And a fully charged battery will give you a whole workshift of illumination. The kit box is a little crowded, but we don't think the tools will spend much time inside it - they'll be on the job. Dewalt's Revolutionary 36V Battery The 36-volt cordless battery platform was developed to provide professional contractors with the performance needed to complete high-powered applications that were previously only possible with corded tools. By partnering with A123 Systems - a developer of a new generation of lithium-ion batteries developed at and exclusively licensed from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Dewalt's 36V line of tools are equipped with a unique Nano-Phosphate lithium-ion design. These revolutionary batteries offers a high level of power, long run-time and durability when compared to conventional lithium technology. In fact, this technology delivers a battery with a maximum life of over 2,000 recharges a nd no frustrating battery memory. With this breakthrough innovation, this 36-volt tool is sure to live up to Dewalt's commitment to providing Guaranteed Tough products for the professional end user. Note: Do not try to discharge the battery beyond the point where the tool no longer performs with the power needed for the job. This may cause permanent damage and prevent the battery from taking a full charge in the future. Do not tape the trigger on the tool to discharge the battery. -Kris Jensen-Van Heste.

-Jonathon Tudor.