Festool CXS and accessories questions

[wilburpan]

I'm really close to ordering my first Festool drill. Probably the CXS.

Some questions:

1. Between the BH 60 and BHS 65 bit holders, is there any reason to use the BH 60 instead of the BHS 65?  In my past experience with magnetic bit holders, I get tired of the magnet letting go of the bit and having the bit lodged in the screw.  I imagine that's not an issue with the BHS 65 because of its the QR collar. So is there any reason to use the BH 60 instead?

2. Based on suggested pilot hole sizes for screws in solid hardwood, it looks like the 3.5 mm countersink is good for #6 screws, and the 4.5 mm countersink for #8-#10 screws.  Am I right on this?

3. In your experience, what's the largest hole in wood that the CXS can comfortably drill?

4. Has anyone found the top speed of 1200 RPM limiting? Other compact drills go up to 1500 RPM.

5. (Probably the wrong place to ask this.  [blink] )  Is there any reason why I shouldn't get the compact Milwaukee M12 drill driver instead?

 

[waho6o9]

http://www.bobmarinosbesttools.com/Default.asp?bhcd2=1289531945

I think Mr. Marino is in NJ as well.  Stay green,  other drills don't come close to Festools' performance. Good luck.

 

[vwdave]

I love my CXS drill.  Its a very comfortable drill to use, and as long as you use speed 1 it can sink some decent size screws.  

I prefer the BH60 extension because of the thinner shaft.  The BHS65 works well but the black collar adds a little bulk and I've never had issues with the BH60.  I'm still using the original BH60 from my 3 year old c-12.

I use the 3.5 countersink all the time.  It works great with #8 screws.  You can adjust how far out the drill bit extends and how deep the countersink is.  Its my most used festool drill accessory, Remember to order replacement drill bits if you order it.

Never really tried to drill large holes with it.

Dave

 

[woodie]

I really like the BHS65 for the very reason you mentioned, better bit retention. The only drawback I've encountered is the extra  width of the collar. There've been a few occasions when that's gotten in the way, then I just switch over to the BH60.

I don't own a CXS but if your looking at the "set", the right angle adapter really makes these drill/drivers so much more capable. I've used the one with my C12 way more than I ever imagined.