Tool buying advice – economy/performance
I spent a lot of time reading search results about which tools are the best, but my criteria is a little different.
For the past year, I’ve been doing hands-on work after 8 years of designing only. I’m talking low volume work, and not expecting to do it long term, so I need to set my priority dial with a strong list toward economy. I’ve had a lot of great tools – all of them stolen one Palm Sunday a few years back… I’ll come back and ask again for specific tools as I need them. I can borrow most things, but really hate doing that.
There are a few seemingly screaming deals at Depot and Lowes for Small compressers and nail guns. I only have experince with a borrowed Porter Cable set; I like it, but have never found much use for the narrow crown stapler.
Professionally, I always had Senco – so this looks interesting. I’d have to buy a real hose…
Bostich was also considered to be pretty great stuff when I was building:
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=253002-354-CPACK300&lpage=none
I’m also looking for comments on:
Cordless combo packs. I’ll pay for L.I. batteries, but not a radio.
Mid-range shop vacs. I have an old Craftsman/Boeing unit that can pick up small adults, but I’d like something more around the 6 gallon size that can be taken into a nice home.
Thanks people – I really appreciate your time.
Edited 9/30/2009 1:36 am ET by SpecRoubaix
Edited 9/30/2009 1:37 am ET by SpecRoubaix
Replies
Performance of most LiIon batteries drops off rapidly at and below 40* F.
Some people claim that the Milwaukee V28 stuff works... but in my experience it doesn't.
I have used HILTI, Bosch, Milwaukee V18 and V28 and Makita LXT LiIon products in chilly temperatures. Small items like phone and computer batteries function the same for me.
If the batteries are charged, they will function (sometimes) down to freezing... but you probaly won't be able to recharge them. Definite no go on charging as temps drop.
So, if it gets cold where you live... and you have to work in it... a tool kit with LiIon batteries only will leave you stranded.
I'd suggest checking out eBay and your local Craig's list for these items. I just scored a Porter Cable combo kit(not the new junk but the old good 19.2 line) with 3 batteries for $100 , had the sawzall, skil saw, light, and hammer drill all barely used. Got a cordless DeWalt finish nailer off eBay for less than $100 years ago as well. Some folks aren't pawn shop fans but tons of compressors, nail guns, and the like can be found inexpensively at those as well.
There are so many variables for tool purchases and each tool can be different.
1. If you are going to use it a lot it makes sense to buy better because of down time.
2. If you are going to abuse it just buy cheap (if they are available) and throw away.
3. If you are going to keep it for a long time and you are young enough to live and work with it that long.
4. Keeping it a long time means you have to take certain steps to not abuse it, misplace it, maintain it, not have it stolen (within reason)
The list of reason for buying low or high is long and each tool has different criteria.
Maybe it would help to make a list?
Will Rogers
If you don't use all the time, some of us like harbor freight!>G<