Makita Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8", Cordless, 12v NiCD, 2 Speed Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This drill, now out of production, was my constant companion for about 6 years. I've been a handyman since retiring from software engineering and am a tool enthusiast.

Pros:
1. Dependability. The drill, batteries, and charger were totally dependable until one of the batteries no longer holds a full charge, after six years of heavy duty use. Nothing seems to faze it or cause the motor to overheat.
2. Excellent power to weight ratio. This is about the most powerful 12v drill around, yet is very light weight.
3. It is tough. The blue/green plastic is like steel. I've dropped the drill repeatedly, sometimes from heights, with no apparent ill effect.
4. Powerful. It is powerful enough to require care for safe use. I rarely found a job where my heavy-duty wired electric drills were necessary. It has enough power to drill up to 1/2" holes in steel or iron, or 1 1/2" holes through 4 X 4 lumber.
5. Ergonomics. All controls are easy to use and the battery is easy to replace. The drill is wonderfully balanced and easy to hold all day.

Cons:
1. The batteries still are very expensive to replace. I bought a new 18v Makita, but regret not having just replaced this drill with a new (reconditioned) one, or just bought two batteries. The new drill is great, but the only improvement over this drill is that the chuck is easier to tighten.
2. Hammer drills are better for concrete.

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