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Discussion Forum

Pistol Grip or “T” Handle

JDRHI | Posted in General Discussion on April 7, 2002 05:07am

 Allright crew…I guess I`m looking for some opinions here. I`d prefer those of professionals for the most part. Am I the only person remaining who favors the “pistol grip” over the “T” handle when it comes to drills and drivers regardless of whether the tool is corded or not. It seems to me that the “pistol grips” are getting harder to find.

 I`m contemplating purchasing the new Senco cordless drywall gun. Besides the fact that it has no reverse it only comes with the “T” handle. I`m not sure which is more discouraging.

 As a residential remodeler I use a cordless drill/driver daily. I have never owned anything other than the “pistol grip” guns, drills and drivers though I have on occasion borrowed a “T” handle tool while on a job from a fellow sub, and I have never felt comfortable with the balance. I like having the palm of my hand directly behind the tool. Am I alone on this?   

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  1. User avater
    BossHog | Apr 07, 2002 04:19pm | #1

    My old Freud pistol grip recently quit, and I bought a new Milwaukee T-handle. Don't like it nearly as well. (Although it's got a lot of power)

    The T-handle is maybe a bit better when you're working horizontally, but you sure can't put as much pressure on it. The only thing I can do is use 2 hands - One on the handle and one behind the motor housing.

    1. Adrian | Apr 07, 2002 05:57pm | #2

      I can't stand t-handles....I just hate them. But the pistol grips are getting harder to find, no question. A rep from a tool company claimed it was because the DIY's prefer the t-handles, and they buy more tools. I know there are folks here that prefer them.....I just don't get it.cabinetmaker/college instructor. Cape Breton, N.S

      1. WKellington | Apr 07, 2002 08:40pm | #3

        I have used both styles extensively and like the T version better.  For me it balances better, and I don't get the wrist pain that I used to get with the pistol grip. 

  2. 4Lorn1 | Apr 07, 2002 09:51pm | #4

    I don't claim to be an expert but I have used both pistol-grip and T-handle drills for extended times ans have made some observations.

    Factors that make a difference:

    Weight of the drill. Lighter drills, ones that can be reasonably used one handed for extended times. Seem easier to use when they are pistol variety. I keep a light weight corded makita handy. For small holes and light driving the pistol grip works wonders especially when I have to hang from a ladder. The cord, paralleled with a light line, saves the drill if I drop it.

    Balance. The more front heavy a drill is the better I like a T-grip. Hammer drills, with the heavy gearing up front, are hard on the wrist when you try to support it horizontally one-handed with a pistol grip.

    Position of use. Pistol grips let you stand up a little straighter when you are working vertically and at floor level. T-handle seem better when I have to work horizontally especially if it is overhead.

    Personal preference. This is the big one.  No matter the engineering involved people, myself included, happly ignore fairly massive extra burdens if we happen to take a shine to someting. Irrational as these choices may be they by far more determine human behavior than any mechanical analysis ever will.

    Minor points. I have found that if you holster your drill, mostly cordless, Pistol grip model seem to holster easier and stay put better. than T models. On the other hand if you tend to put down your drill in a handy location and grab it up while holding work in place T handle can help.  Most will stand up on thier battery pack making it less of a reach to grab it off the floor. If the site is muddy only the bottom of the battery pack gets wet when standing up this way. It keeps the motor body and your hands free of mud and grit. A pistol grip number will , without using a holster or handy location, lay flat in the dirt causing more back strain and mess. 

    If you have a chance try a few of each type on different tasks. Talk to people doing the same type of work in your area and see what they use.

    Your milage may vary. Have fun

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