Popular Mechanics has just posted a detailed review on 10 of the most popular cordless drills currently on the market. Their pick was the Makita 18V BHP454. The testers selected this drill as one of the best power tool they had ever used. The praise did not stop there. Highlights include: “Some talented engineers designed its high-torque motor and drive­train to squeeze every ounce of performance from the battery. It also exhibits excellent industrial design. For a large and heavy drill, it’s well-balanced and handles easily due to a nicely shaped handle with lots of rubber overmold.”

At over $100 less the Ryobi 18V P203 was the editor’s pick for best value. “This tool punches holes and socks down fasteners with the best of them. We liked almost everything about it, from its stone-simple magnetic bit holder to battery-charger icons that actually make sense. The tool’s relatively low price paired with its performance make it the ultimate home­owner drill.”

Amazon had the best prices we could find for either tool. The Ryobi is available as part of a 4 piece kit that includes 2 batteries, charger, reciprocating saw, circular saw, worklight and carrying case for a very reasonable $299. The Makita kit includes the drill, 2 batteries, handle charger and case for $343. If you don’t need the handle or case you can go with the tool only configuration for $125 and add two batteries and a charger for about another $150, saving about $75.

Grab It: Makita BHP454 18-Volt LXT 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Drill Kit

Tags: Cordless Drills, Popular Mechanics

This entry was posted on Monday, November 24th, 2008 at 6:39 AM and is filed under Power Tools, Work. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.