I've been an amateur woodworker for about 4 years now. I pay a monthly fee to be a member of a fully equipped woodshop space. Recently, I bought a home with a large wired up back shed / garage - that I plan on making a woodshop of my own one day. Since I've always lived in apartments - I haven't really acquired many tools of my own. The first thing up is a cordless drill/driver set.
I need something that meets my needs now and hopefully into the future. What I'd need it for now is woodworking (drilling into hardwoods etc) and DIY projects - building patio furniture, fence boards, planter boxes etc. Future - maybe some renovation work (we've got a bathroom and downstairs basement that need an overhaul).
The shop I go to uses Ridgid drills/drivers exclusively, mid range, they're decent enough - hold up to abuse, but sometimes show their limitations and stall out while drilling with spade bits etc. You can only push them so far.
I've done research, and am considering two options - a Dewalt compact XR MAX set, DCD796 hammer drill and DCF887 impact driver. I like the size and weight in hand. Comes with 2 2ah XR batteries - $300 CAD.
Also, a step up in size, Dewalt XR MAX DCD996 hammer drill and DCF887 impact. Comes with 2 4ah XR batteries - $360 CAD. I've used the 996 before, neighbour has one, its got some serious oomph, but larger in hand - not bad though.
And finally, the new Dewalt DCD999 hammer drill with DCF887 impact. Comes with one 6ah Flexvolt battery and fast charger and one 2ah XR battery. - $400 CAD. I'm not sure if someone like me needs the extra Flexvolt battery power, but its a nice to have and seems to be the future of Dewalt tool lineup.
I don't work in the trades and don't really need a drill to stand up to that level of daily punishment or requirements. I like the idea of larger batteries for the possibility of moving into other cordless yard tools like string trimmers etc - since I need those now as a homeowner. Maybe a circular or recip saw down the road. However, the compact is really nice and lightweight with - from what I understand - a decent amount of power. But for just $60 more you get a fair amount more with 2 4ah batteries. Or for a $100 more, the Flexvolt.
Any thoughts?
