Festool research and development

[McNally Family]

Maybe not with workshop joiners who have more space to faff about with multiple chargers but as I see it site carpenters are wanting to have more tools on one battery platform.
I personally feel that Festool does some great tools but their range is let down by missing out on a few items, more and more people are looking at the whole range of cordless tools before they commit.

Obviously its hard for a relatively small manufacturer to keep up with the rapid pace of development but to me nowadays a powerful impact screwdriver is an essential item. Add a cordless multitool and other manufacturers tools start looking more attractive.

I don't know about you lot but many times that I need something like a multitool its just for a minute or so and I'd rather not be running leads out for that job.

Mind, after saying all that^ I'm after a HKC soon which will be my only Festool cordless tool. To me that is one of those tools that makes faffing on with different chargers worth the effort and space it takes up.

I can certainly see your perspective about wanting everything on one battery platform (as I stare at all my expensive 50 Ft 10/3 yellow extension cords hanging on the shop wall).  My first Festool purchase was the CXS, which, before the end of the 30-day return period, I took back for the C18, just to get on the 18v platform.  I'm even dreading the idea of a second 18v Festool battery charger for items such as cordless saws that can take 2ea 18v batteries simultaneously, should I decide to go that route.

I spent some time talking with the Festool reps during the recent Festool Road Show, specifically about the longevity of the now current Festool 18v platform (all of us have seen the newer, higher voltage  capacity batteries being used by some other manufacturers).  I myself have recently gotten rid of my old lower voltage cordless drills (primarily due to older battery technology), so thinking I won't need different battery chargers in the future is difficult to accept.

It does not help my thinking when I can still utilize my 24 year old corded (not plug in cord) Milwaukee circular saw, and not need any batteries. 

I do think the KAL II SysLite LED Work lamp is an excellent resting place for my extra 18v battery.