How to shop for a drill/driver

Buying your first set of power tools can be intimidating. If you don't know exactly what you want, you could end up with something you don't need. In our how to shop for a drill/driver we take a look at where to buy a drill/driver and the various models available, so that when you are ready to buy your first drill/driver - you know which one you need.

 

Drills have come a long way in the past few years. Where a few years ago you needed a set of screwdrivers and a heavy and hard to handle drill, now you only need a lightweight and compact drill/driver.

Drill/Drivers are a combination of screwdriver and impact drill. These small power tools have replaced cumbersome drills, and can now drill into almost any material with ease.

When you need to buy a drill/driver, choosing the right one depends on what you are going to be using it for.

A Cordless Drill/Driver is going to be your first buy when starting off your power tool collection. These power tools might be small and lightweight in size, but they are able to deliver big advantages.

Without going into all the technical jargon that normally accompanies a tool comparison, the bottom line is that the higher the voltage (v) of the drill/driver - the more you get out of it. Having said that, what you can afford to spend will also have a say in what drill/driver you buy. And while bigger may be better, there's no point in buying an 18v drill/driver if you can do what needs to be done with a 14,4v model, or even the new 10,8v drill/driver.

PSB 10,8v Drill/Driver
Extremely lightweight compared to other drill/driver models, the Bosch PSB 10,8v drill/driver is small enough to fit into tight spaces, which comes in very handy when you are installing kitchen cabinets or assembling furniture where space to move around is limited. Normally you would have to revert to using a manual or cordless screwdriver for this type of job, but the 10,8v takes the strain out of this type of job, has a built-in light and can easily fit in a pocket or toolbelt.

But more than that, this drill/driver (PSB) also drills into masonry with ease. So, while you might think the tool is a bit pricey, consider the fact that it is an all-round drill/driver that is lightweight, compact, easy to use, fits into tight spaces, drills into timber, board, soft steel and masonry.

Where to buy: Builders Warehouse,  or get in touch with Bosch for your nearest supplier (Tel. 011 651 9866).