C Vs. T Drill/drivers?

[roblg3]

So, i'm buying one of these drills.  I'm not sure what the major differences in them are.  I have other drills that i will use for heavy/ beater work.  just looking for something versatile, accurate and comfortable.  I don't need a ton of power, this will be for installations of doors, cabinets and general use.  Like i stated, i have other things for heavy use, i need some help deciding on what will reduce fatigue and be eeasy to use and have good function.  Any thoughts out there?  Much appreciated.

 

[Walk On Wood]

I asked a similar question in this thread and got lots of helpful feedback:

http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tools-accessories/help-with-drill-decision/

 

[Sparktrician]

Take a careful look at the CXS.  It's wonderful for the work you mentioned, especially working inside cabinets to mount drawer glides using the right-angle head.  On top of that, it's a whole bunch lighter than the C and T series tools.  Your arm and wrist will thank you at quitting time.

 

[roblg3]

thanks fellas. i appreciate the link

 

[RKA]

I ruled out the T series, mainly because it's form factor is so similar to my existing drills.  The CXS is the classic solution for what you describe, but I find the trigger control on the C15 is really nice.  Unfortunately for you, they only sell the C15 with the 3.0ah batteries, so it's a bit heavier than you might prefer.  

 

[roblg3]

Just so it's more clear, i typically use a Dewalt 18v drill/drive/hammer selectability for my everyday use.  So dropping 3 pounds, would be an amazing drop even at the heaviest T18 option.  Ok so it's down to feel? ???  What's the outlook for festool keeping up with the 15v line?  Oh, and by the way, onyone have any ideas if the centrotec installers kit w/ Zobo is worth the extra cash? 

 

[Matt Swiderski]

I have tried both out at the local woodcraft. I prefer the T series, the handle is a smaller diameter and I'am able grasp it better. Just my $.02.
Matt

 

[NHSP759]

+1 Matt. I tried out the C15 but bought the T15. The handle and trigger were a little too hard for me to get used to. Awesome tool, unfortunately, and I mean it to, the C grip was not a fit.

 

[TelcoRandy]

Just so it's more clear, i typically use a Dewalt 18v drill/drive/hammer selectability for my everyday use.  So dropping 3 pounds, would be an amazing drop even at the heaviest T18 option.  Ok so it's down to feel? ???  What's the outlook for festool keeping up with the 15v line?  Oh, and by the way, onyone have any ideas if the centrotec installers kit w/ Zobo is worth the extra cash?  

You sound like a perfect candidate for Festool's PDC, it could replace your Dewalt because it has a hammer function.
Too bad it's not available in North America...

All NAINA sourness aside, with the exception of hammer drill function the T18/T15/C15 would replace your Dewalt quite nicely. These drills have a lot of power, you can try one for 30 days and return it if you decide it doesn't work for you. I don't expect that the 15V models will become obsolete anytime soon. As far as I can tell a lot of people still buy the 15V models because even they have more power than most people will ever need.

The C-drill in my opinion is mainly for people that like that old school grip you get on a lot of classic drills. Or possibly for someone maybe starting out with their first drill and they need one that puts their hand/arm in line with the axis of the drill (it does seem more ergonomic/natural). My brother's father-in-law couldn't drive a screw straight if his life depended on it. I cringed when I let him use my Makita drill as I watched him destroy the screwheads in his deck and my bits. I suspect a C-drill is more up his alley, just a theory of mine. Maybe one day I'll let him try mine.  

As for the CXS, if you want something lightweight and still powerful then try it out. When the Festool guy at my local Lee Valley store demoed the CXS to me he was able to sink a screw into maple once, pull it out, sink it again and break the head off the screw.

Once again, there's that 30 day return policy. So maybe buy 2 drills and return whichever doesn't work for you.

 

[roblg3]

As am u[date to all those who posted in response......the winner is C 15+3!!!!!!!!  Hands down the most comfortable balanced and precise driver i have EVER had the pleasure of operating.  I've owned many drills over the years and this one is a dream.  I have been able to overpower it but that's reall ynot a problem, since i can back off slightly on the feed rate and finish the drive solidly.  But that tiny minor drawback is by far outshadowed by the ease of use and lightweight.  I just dangle it off my beltloop all day and hardly even notice its there. ;D [laughing] . I bought a whole slew of these tools to kick off the image of my new business and im most pleased with my expenditures.  I can't imagine paying these prices without the return, but bless those who've got that kinda cash.