SDS and Combo Drill Recommendations

[Andy78]

The 2 brands with most options are makita and dewalt. Imo makita is not what it was back in the day.
So dewalt has to be the best option for choices of tool variety.

I have 2 combo drills, 2 impact drivers, sds, angle drill, electricians stapler, floodlight, angle grinder, multi tool and circular saw.

My mate with the milwaukee M18 range has sent his sds back for repair 3 times in 2019 and his combi drill is away at the minute and was away a few months ago for a new trigger switch, he thinks my multi tool is more powerful as well, personally I didn't like his as the battery goes in at an angle and doesn't stand up straight. So needs laid down every time.

As a M18 user I've not had anywhere near this many problems. SDS is solid and takes heaps of abuse (CHX model) I have had a trigger replacement on an older combi (M18CPD model) But that was after 4-5 years of daily use. That's the only repair I have ever had to do on any of my M18 kit.
Yep the multitool is a bit basic but does the job. I do like the DeWalt multitool though, very nice bit of kit indeed.

 

[RDB85]

The 2 brands with most options are makita and dewalt. Imo makita is not what it was back in the day.
So dewalt has to be the best option for choices of tool variety.

I have 2 combo drills, 2 impact drivers, sds, angle drill, electricians stapler, floodlight, angle grinder, multi tool and circular saw.

My mate with the milwaukee M18 range has sent his sds back for repair 3 times in 2019 and his combi drill is away at the minute and was away a few months ago for a new trigger switch, he thinks my multi tool is more powerful as well, personally I didn't like his as the battery goes in at an angle and doesn't stand up straight. So needs laid down every time.

Thanks for that Phil. Certainly interested. Only thing with Dewalt that is confusing is the model numbers for each. Being new to it, it’s a mind-field as I am not sure what’s good and what’s bad.

 

[telectrix]

thing is, as you say, it's a minefied. once you make your choice... 1 brand so interchangeble batteries, you're stuck with it. a trade fair like elex is a good idea, so you can see what;s on offer and handle the tools, find out what's best for you. maybe even get a good deal.

 

[RDB85]

thing is, as you say, it's a minefied. once you make your choice... 1 brand so interchangeble batteries, you're stuck with it. a trade fair like elex is a good idea, so you can see what;s on offer and handle the tools, find out what's best for you. maybe even get a good deal.

That would be a good idea. Bit far for me to go though. Shame there is not something in the North West.

I could go the Wholesalers and Toolstation etc but they are limited in what they have. There is a Power Tool Centre Ltd, 49-51 London Rd, City Centre, Liverpool L3 8HY they seem to have quite a bit of stock. Might try there.

 

[123]

Makita stuff is still more than good, just stay away from the basic models as they are more for DIY. I've the DHP481 brushless combi drill and it's an absolute weapon.

@RDB85 I'd recommend trying out and having a play with as many different brands as you possibly can - get a feel for what you like using. Personally in the past I found the Milwaukee stuff too bulky and cumbersome, typically after I had bought it. What works well for others, might not be best suited to you.

 

[rapparee]

I am a firm believer in Hitachi or Hikoki as they have re-branded themselves. I've invested in their 18v range, so that's that.

FFX (folkstone fixings) usually do a good price.

Once you go with one brand, you will be stuck with it for life. The batteries are interchangeable so you can have 3/4 batteries and have a load of tools that fit them.

 

[Phil Thompson]

I agree about the brand thing, having lots of batteries to fit all tools is much easier than having to wait for ones to charge up if you've a machine that's hard on them or been using 1 alot on a day.

 

[telectrix]

elex do manchester, butit's usually June.

 

[RDB85]

One of the lads in work has this set. It’s nice:

DEWALT 18V Combi Drill Plus Hammer (Pack of 2): Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Shop DEWALT 18V Combi Drill Plus Hammer (Pack of 2). Free delivery on eligible orders of £20 or more.

www.amazon.co.uk

 

[JAWS]

One of the lads in work has this set. It’s nice:

DEWALT 18V Combi Drill Plus Hammer (Pack of 2): Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Shop DEWALT 18V Combi Drill Plus Hammer (Pack of 2). Free delivery on eligible orders of £20 or more.

www.amazon.co.uk

Stay away from manufacturers cheap range like this they are simply not very good. Brushless is the way to go mate, yes you pay more but it will be worth it long haul.

 

[Phil Thompson]

The only difference between those 2 and the next model up is they have a light on them.

I have the 273 sds and then 785 and 786 combi and thats the only difference I can see. Between the 5 and 6 is the light.

 

[BruvDunk]

Dewalt XRP replaced a couple of years ago after the first one packed in after over 10 years of use. Would get an impact driver to go with it if I still did a lot of install.....