Thinking about the drill.....

[Toolpig]

So, my Milwaukee 14.4 volt drill bit the dust.  After just two years and relatively moderate use, it needs a near gear assembly ($100 to fix it).  The batteries are probably not long for this world, either.

This drill has been my workhorse for several cabinetry and remodeling projects.  Never a complaint about the power, but both the weight of the tool and battery run times have been an issue.

I wan't a "forever" drill, so I'm pondering getting the Festool 12-volt.  However, I'm wondering which battery kit I should be thinking about.  In other words, how many "amp hours" do I need for basic remodeling projects and the occasional 2-3" hole I'll need to cut with a hole saw?

TP

 

[b_m_hart]

I picked up the 2.4, then switched it for the 1.3.  The light weight is nice (yes, it's only a half a pound or so, but it is noticable at the end of a long day).  The 1.3 takes roughly 20 minutes to fully charge from empty, so if you run out of juice on both batteries, you can be up and running after a quick break to catch your breath.

 

[Jim Becker]

I love my 12v Festool drill/driver both for the comfort and light weight as well as the extreme versatility it offers. My only complaint has always been regarding the unavailability of Robertson/square drive bits natively from Festool for the Centrotec system...but I get by by making my own and using the BH65 adapter with McFeeley's bits which I like a lot. This drill/driver is a keeper...and the only time I reach for my alternative drill/driver (a Dewalt 14.4v) is when I want the convenience of a second d/d on the bench for something or when the little bit of extra oomph is desired for driving lag screws or something like that. The yellow tool is definitely my secondary d/d.

 

[Spike]

Don't hesitate to get the C12. Opt for the 2.4 or 3.0 amp battery. I have the 3.0 and I swear it hardly aver needs charging. I also have all the accessories like offset, right angle, depth stop, drill bits and drivers, etc...

The balance and ergonomics are top rate.

I also have the TDK 15.6 but that I use only for heavier duty applications.

 

[ken257]

The C12 is a great little drill. It also has a superb clutch for driving fasteners. I first got a C12 set with all the attachments and the 1.3 batteries. After using it I got a second C12 with the 2.4 Batteries for variety, I mostly use the 1.3mh battery. You see I like having a drill and a driver set up so I do not have to change bits. In order to do this I sold all of my other small cordless stuff which included all 3 Bosh lithion tools and a Makita 14.4v drill. It was a great move and I (and Bob M) have been very happy with this decision   Although for the heavy stuff I am keeping my Milwaukee V28 set and corded tools.

 

[mastercabman]

I have 2 c12.  2.4 and 3.0.Both are great.i had the drills now for almost 3 years and never had any problem.
Don't feel much difference in weight between the two,but i can tell that the 3.0 last a little longer than the 2.4
I got the 3.0 first and with all the extras and i got the second a few months later,just the basic kit.
I install cabinets everyday.all day! 

 

[glass1]

I have the c12 with the 2.4 and all the accesories. It never leaves my side and is in constant use. It actually fits in my nail bag. I have yet to kill a battery in less than a day. thx glass1

 

[ccmviking]

I just picked up my fourth C12 drill.  They are the best there is.  I favor the compact size and weight of the 1.3ah battery over the larger, heavier ones.  They all perform well but I'm holding the drill a lot during the day and that weight difference means a lot.  The right angle chuck is very handy and gets used all the time.  The eccentric chuck (though I thought was really neat in the beginning) rarely ever see's any use.  When you buy the full kit vs getting the basic set and adding the right angle the eccentric chuck is only $19 more so it's hard to leave it out.  I'm sure you won't be disappointed in whichever set you choose.

Chris...

 

[Frans]

No drill lasts forever, especially the batteries have a limited lifespan. Plus, in three or four years time, you'll want a new toy to play with  ;D

I've got an aging Festool CDD 9.6 volt model with 2.0 Ah NiCad batteries. I mainly use it for DIY around the house and some hobby woodworking. After five years, the batteries are not as good as they once were, but for me still very acceptable. Plus charging them only takes 15 minutes, and I've never emptied a battery in such a short time.

Next drill/driver I'll get will definately be a C12 or it's eventual follow-up, with the smallest battery available.

The eccentric and angle chuck are fantastic, I use them all the time.

Frans

 

[greg mann]

I have the 1.3 batteries and have not found them lacking, in either the TDK or C12. Others may like more capacity and they have that option. It just boils down to what you think you need and how much it is worth to you to have what you think you need.

 

[Coss]

C12 is the way to go. If you hang a lot of cabinets the weight is gonna be heaven. Very low maintainance with the brushless induction motor. You will save a ton of money in the long run

Ryan
CPO Festool

 

[dltflt]

I would get the C12 it is light yet powerful. The 1.3 batteries hold up pretty well and charge fast also.

 

[Thomas R]

I have to chime in here, the C12 is just fantastic (my favorite Festool)
Get the attachments to (if you need them, and of course you do), you wont be sorry.
1.3 or 3.0 ? If you work close to the charger ALL the time, you might want to go with the 1.3
I went with the 3.0 for myself.

I hear a roumor that Li-on models are coming out here i Europe (I'm calling my Festool dealer on monday to find out)

Thomas

 

[Jim Becker]

I have to say that my Festool 12v drill/driver is the Festool tool in my collection that gets the most work. I just love it! (I don't recall which batteries I have) And the versatility is wonderful. My only complaint has been having to manufacture my own Robertson/square drive bits to work natively in the Centrotec chuck system...