- 10 June 2021
Tradies 5 Favourite Drill Skins
Whether you’re fastening, loosening, or adding more holes than a Swiss cheesemaker – all you need is a battery.
Cordless technology has come a long way since your old man first brought a video player home with its remote control attached by a thin black cable. And while it was fun at the time – dad accidentally yanking the VCR off the telly, your sister tripping into the fondue – power cables are rarely lamented.
Indeed, in an era where new utes offer wireless CarPlay and lifesavers spot sharks via drone, anything that needs plugging in can feel immediately prehistoric.
A good charger and battery set-up can both reduce your outlay on power tools and the amount of stuff you need to cart around. If you’re looking for an EOFY drill skin, these are some of the best.
1) DeWALT 18V XR Premium Brushless Hammer Drill Driver Skin
The gist: American brand DeWALT’s most powerful 18V XR cordless drill pumps out up to 95Nm of torque and has a maximum drilling capacity of 55mm in wood. Its three-speed all-metal transmission is good for up to 2000rpm, with 11-position torque control and a high-speed hammer drill capable of 38,250bpm. Solid.
Expert verdict: “Overall [it’s] a strong, durable, multi-functional drill which covers all the bases.” Andrew Donkin, engineer and tool reviewer.
2) Makita 18V LXT Heavy Duty Hammer Drill Driver Skin
The gist: This 225mm bulldog of a drill skin delivers top-shelf performance with surprisingly low bulk and weight. It features durable aluminium gear housing, a four-pole motor and mechanical two-speed gearing, allowing you the choice of higher rpm or maximum torque (up to 84Nm).
Expert verdict: “It is powerful, sturdy and extremely versatile while still maintaining a light, compact nature.” Mike Jones, Tool Review.
3) Makita 18V LXT Brushless 3-Stage Impact Driver Skin
The gist: This model has a thumping 175Nm of maximum fastening torque and a ‘T-Mode’ that intelligently adjusts rpm when driving tek screws to avoid damage to the screw and the bit. With four modes of impact driving and one-touch bit installation, this skin is hard to beat for speedy tightening or removal, particular on bulk fastening jobs.
Expert verdict: “If part of your job requires you to drive self-tapping screws into concrete or nuts and bolts into metal then nothing beats this impact driver.” Just Off Base tool reviews.
4) Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-Stage Impact Driver Skin
The gist: Claimed to be “built with more intelligence than anything on the market”, Makita’s ultra-compact brushless impact driver pumps out an impressive 180Nm of maximum fastening torque, despite weighing just 1kg without the battery. In addition to two versions of ‘T-Mode’ (for thick or thin metal plate), it also features ‘A-Mode’. When selected, that setting begins rotation slowly to allow maximum control of the screw, helping self-tappers to ‘bite’ the material before going speeding up. Clever.
Expert verdict: “A great mix of engineering, torque and functionality.” Rob Brown, Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement.
5) DeWALT 18V XR Brushless Impact Driver Skin
The gist: Super compact despite its outsized output – up to 205Nm – DeWALT’s 1.3kg DCF887 features a PrecisionDrive mode which tweaks torque delivery to avoid material and fastener damage. A 1/4” (6.35mm) ‘drop-in’ bit holder allows for rapid, one-handed fitment, three motor speeds cater to any job, and a trio of LEDs deliver optimal workplace lighting.
Expert verdict: “If you’re a jobbing tradesman, kitchen fitter, jobbing builder, plumber, electrician, I reckon this is a pretty good machine for you.” Roger Bisby, Skill Builder.
