[Shop-talk] 12V cordless tools?

[Randall]

> Hi.  Does anybody have any experience with 10.8V/12V cordless 
> tools? 

Not sure if it helps, but I have an old 12v Ryobi drill that I've been quite happy with.  With the 2-speed gearbox (plus variable
speed trigger), it usually has enough torque for what I want to do.  I still get out the corded Milwaukee for big jobs, but the
cordless will drive 1/4" lag bolts (up to about 1.5" long) into pine.  The lighter weight makes it easier to use in awkward places,
like hanging off a ladder or crawling in the attic.  It was originally 3/8", but I made an adapter so I could mount a 1/2" keyless
chuck on it.  Battery life could be better, but with two packs, I can always keep one of them on the fast charger to be ready when I
need it.

Biggest downside, Ryobi no longer makes that model, so I can't buy batteries at the local "big box" store.  Found some on the
Internet last time, but next time I may have to send the old packs out to be "rebuilt".

Randall