Which Cordless drill????

[electricald]

Hey everyone,
There are seven cordless drills made by Festool; two of which are the most recent of the Festool line. I currently have three of the Panasonic cordless drill/drivers. One has a 1/2'' chuck, the other is an impact driver that takes your standard run of the mill hex type driver, and the other is a pencil type driver that takes the same type driver as the impact unit. My brother is willing to buy two of them except the pencil type driver, as I mentioned to him that I wanted to purchase the Festool type.
I'm having trouble choosing but am leaning towards the impact driver. And that is just a quick first look. I want an impact driver like the Panasonic I have and a drill. The TI15 Impact has both and seems to satisfy the need there and you have the ability to change over to the chucks you want. Looks like the speed adjustment is in the trigger like most drills? The Panasonic had a low and high range speed selector and the Festool doesn't, and I am thinking that with the Festool unit you probably don't need that? Am I right here? And why are there so many types of cordless drills? I am still reading and checking the videos here so I am putting this out as I do. Are there any limitations on the TI15 Impact? Would you guys please weigh in on this for me?

Dan

 

[Bob Gerritsen]

Hi Dan,

It might be a good idea to explain a bit what you generally do so that the peeps can get an idea of how you're going to use the drill.

In general though, I would not want to be with only one cordless. To be honest, I have too many probably but that's another story. Anyway, if I had to do with just one, I would def prefer non impact. In fact, I have a Makita impact that I hardly use, only when I have to as the benefits only sometimes make up for the noise. I have also come across some criticism on the TI15 saying it isn't nearly as good a machine as two separates. Can't recall the details but you might want to look into that.

To conclude, I can totally recommend Festools C models in general. I have been using them 15 years now, maybe even longer, and I love their balance. I have a c12 with all the chucks and combined with the Protool DRC 18-4 I'm prepared for just about anything.

Hope someone can give you the lowdown on the TI15.

Cheers, Bob.

 

[AlexThePalex]

Are there any limitations on the TI15 Impact?

Quite a few. As in, it's not the most powerful driver by far, and when it comes to drilling it is even less powerful. Furthermore, the balance of the tool is made such that it only lies good in your hand when you use it without any chucks, as soon as you put one chuck on it starts to feel awkwardly unbalanced and always wants to take a nosedive.

I don't think Festool hit the right spot with this one. It's their very first impact driver and they tried to make it a jack-of-all-trades but ended up with something that doesn't do any of them very well. I'd steer clear of this thing, especially if you're already used to some excellent Panasonics.

Festool's drills on the other hand are marvelous. I prefer the T model myself, others like the C model more, that's up to personal taste. Wether you choose a 12, 15 or 18 model depends on the power you need for your application. Generally, the T15 or C15 can satisfy most needs.

My advice is to not try to get a single drill that does it all, especially not if you choose the Ti15 to be that one, you'll be disappointed. Stay with a drill and driver combo.

 

[Birdhunter]

My first Festool drill was the CSX. I wanted a lightweight drill with good ergonomics. The CSX is delightful to use and has a lot of power. I was so pleased with the CSX that I bought the C12 and the TI15.

The C12 is the drill I reach for most of the time. Great feel, gobs of power, and highly functional accessories.

The TI15, in my opinion, is a great impact drill/driver and a fair drill.

If you already have an impact drill/driver, go with the C12 or C15. I liked the 12 over the 15 due to somewhat lighter weight and smaller size. If I was doing heavy production work, I'd buy the 15.

Hope this helps.

 

[jmbfestool]

Are there any limitations on the TI15 Impact?

Quite a few. As in, it's not the most powerful driver by far, and when it comes to drilling it is even less powerful. Furthermore, the balance of the tool is made such that it only lies good in your hand when you use it without any chucks, as soon as you put one chuck on it starts to feel awkwardly unbalanced and always wants to take a nosedive.

I don't think Festool hit the right spot with this one. It's their very first impact driver and they tried to make it a jack-of-all-trades but ended up with something that doesn't do any of them very well. I'd steer clear of this thing, especially if you're already used to some excellent Panasonics.

Festool's drills on the other hand are marvelous. I prefer the T model myself, others like the C model more, that's up to personal taste. Wether you choose a 12, 15 or 18 model depends on the power you need for your application. Generally, the T15 or C15 can satisfy most needs.

My advice is to not try to get a single drill that does it all, especially not if you choose the Ti15 to be that one, you'll be disappointed. Stay with a drill and driver combo.

+1 to what Alex said!  Total agree!  [big grin]   

(avoid Ti15)

 

[Brice Burrell]

My first Festool drill was the CSX. I wanted a lightweight drill with good ergonomics. The CSX is delightful to use and has a lot of power. I was so pleased with the CSX that I bought the C12 and the TI15.

The C12 is the drill I reach for most of the time. Great feel, gobs of power, and highly functional accessories.

The TI15, in my opinion, is a great impact drill/driver and a fair drill.

If you already have an impact drill/driver, go with the C12 or C15. I liked the 12 over the 15 due to somewhat lighter weight and smaller size. If I was doing heavy production work, I'd buy the 15.

Hope this helps.

I'd strongly recommend you try out the drills in person to see which style Festool drill you prefer.  I like the T style, but others feel strongly about the C.

 

[Samer]

Hi Electrical

i have i DCD790B
20V MAX* XR Lithium Ion Brushless Compact Drill / Driver
DEWALT brushless motor delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed
Compact (7.2" front to back), lightweight design fits into tight areas
High speed transmission delivers 2-speed settings (0-600/0-2,000 RPM) improving speed and torque control across a range fastening and drilling applications
Ergonomic comfort grip handle provides ideal balance & tool control
Metal ½” ratcheting chuck for superior bit gripping strength
LED light with 20 second trigger release delay provides increased visibility in dark or confined spaces, LED placement on tool foot eliminates chuck shadows

and

DEWALT DCF895C2 20-Volt MAX Lithium Ion Brushless 3-Speed 1/4-Inch Impact Driver 3 led lights

they are awesome heavy duty , light weight, compact, super strong. and you can get a kit for cheap$
im very happy with it

good luck

 

[electricald]

Bob,
I think I am pretty much sold on the TI15 as it has both of what I have in two of the Panasonic cordless units. And then I plan to get a few extras as well. As for what I am doing, well, I am just getting into the woodworking craft and I have to floor of my shop to finish and then I am go to go. But the TI 15, I can use anywhere. And for starting off it will do for now.
Thanks,
Dan

Hi Dan,

It might be a good idea to explain a bit what you generally do so that the peeps can get an idea of how you're going to use the drill.

In general though, I would not want to be with only one cordless. To be honest, I have too many probably but that's another story. Anyway, if I had to do with just one, I would def prefer non impact. In fact, I have a Makita impact that I hardly use, only when I have to as the benefits only sometimes make up for the noise. I have also come across some criticism on the TI15 saying it isn't nearly as good a machine as two separates. Can't recall the details but you might want to look into that.

To conclude, I can totally recommend Festools C models in general. I have been using them 15 years now, maybe even longer, and I love their balance. I have a c12 with all the chucks and combined with the Protool DRC 18-4 I'm prepared for just about anything.

Hope someone can give you the lowdown on the TI15.

Cheers, Bob.

 

[electricald]

Hey Alex,
Well Your comments certainly surprise me. But I have pretty much handed the Panasonic units to my brother today and I don't think I can go back. I was very surprised at your comments. I'll see if others have the same perspective on this. Thanks for responding.
Dan

Are there any limitations on the TI15 Impact?

Quite a few. As in, it's not the most powerful driver by far, and when it comes to drilling it is even less powerful. Furthermore, the balance of the tool is made such that it only lies good in your hand when you use it without any chucks, as soon as you put one chuck on it starts to feel awkwardly unbalanced and always wants to take a nosedive.

I don't think Festool hit the right spot with this one. It's their very first impact driver and they tried to make it a jack-of-all-trades but ended up with something that doesn't do any of them very well. I'd steer clear of this thing, especially if you're already used to some excellent Panasonics.

Festool's drills on the other hand are marvelous. I prefer the T model myself, others like the C model more, that's up to personal taste. Wether you choose a 12, 15 or 18 model depends on the power you need for your application. Generally, the T15 or C15 can satisfy most needs.

My advice is to not try to get a single drill that does it all, especially not if you choose the Ti15 to be that one, you'll be disappointed. Stay with a drill and driver combo.

 

[electricald]

Hey JMB,

Well, you are number two on the don't do it list. Very interesting.
And thanks for weighing in on this.
Dan

 

[electricald]

Hey Brice,
I live in NL, Canada. There is one Festool dealer here and the last time I was there, there wasn't any cordless drills at all. But I will check again. Barring that, I just have to rely on you guys. Interesting though I got two definite nay sayers already.

Regards,
Dan

quote author=Brice Burrell link=topic=26140.msg256894#msg256894 date=1367697550]

My first Festool drill was the CSX. I wanted a lightweight drill with good ergonomics. The CSX is delightful to use and has a lot of power. I was so pleased with the CSX that I bought the C12 and the TI15.

The C12 is the drill I reach for most of the time. Great feel, gobs of power, and highly functional accessories.

The TI15, in my opinion, is a great impact drill/driver and a fair drill.

If you already have an impact drill/driver, go with the C12 or C15. I liked the 12 over the 15 due to somewhat lighter weight and smaller size. If I was doing heavy production work, I'd buy the 15.

Hope this helps.

I'd strongly recommend you try out the drills in person to see which style Festool drill you prefer.  I like the T style, but others feel strongly about the C.
[/quote]

 

[electricald]

Hey Samer,
The reason I bought Panasonic was this. I work on an oil rig and in the electrical department we have a few of them. The first set we had, the guys on the drill floor used them and they eventually bought their own after. If you ever want to put a tool through a battery (no pun intended) of tests, then put them on an oil rig. These guys are merciless with tools. Having seen what these drills went through I bought them. But I am interested in the Festool line as I have quite a bit of their gear and I love the product.

Dan

 

[skids]

Hey Samer,
The reason I bought Panasonic was this. I work on an oil rig and in the electrical department we have a few of them. The first set we had, the guys on the drill floor used them and they eventually bought their own after. If you ever want to put a tool through a battery (no pun intended) of tests, then put them on an oil rig. These guys are merciless with tools. Having seen what these drills went through I bought them. But I am interested in the Festool line as I have quite a bit of their gear and I love the product.

Dan

There is no Impact driver in the Festool lineup that compares to the Panny 14.4 Brushless impact driver. Sorry it's the truth..If thats what you have, look no further. If it's a drill/driver you want, the Festool C-Handles are other-worldly. Go get a few in your hand to make sure it's what you want.

 

[Brice Burrell]

Hey JMB,

Well, you are number two on the don't do it list. Very interesting.
And thanks for weighing in on this.
Dan

There does seem to be plenty of people that the Ti15 isn't Festool strongest release.  The biggest complaint is the lack of good torque in drilling mode.  Also, it is not the most powerful 15v impact out there, some say it is average in that regard. 

I think it could be a decent tool for some people as long you are aware of it's limitations.  In fact I decided to give one a try.  I picked up a basic (impact only in the super cool Sys3 with two drill insert).  My thought is I didn't want to have another brand of drill/impact to carry around.  I want one brand, with the same voltage for my cordless tools.  I haven't had a chance to try it out yet.  I'll try it out for 30 days and if it doesn't fit my needs, I'll return it.  Remember the 30 day return policy is no gimmick, if a tool doesn't work out for you there is no one that wants you to be satisfied more than Festool.  Good luck. 

 

[electricald]

Hi Skids,
I had the 14.4 Volt impact driver. It is so light and I drove a # 14, 3 1/2'' screw into a piece of 2 x 4 x 2' sideways and it split into two pieces. It is very light and very powerful. I had people look at it and laugh as I bought it as I am not a big man, only 155 lbs. But when they tried it they were  [eek] . But I made a deal with my brother and he wanted the impact as well as the 1/2 " chuck drill as well.
Dan

quote author=skids link=topic=26140.msg256960#msg256960 date=1367708355]

Hey Samer,
The reason I bought Panasonic was this. I work on an oil rig and in the electrical department we have a few of them. The first set we had, the guys on the drill floor used them and they eventually bought their own after. If you ever want to put a tool through a battery (no pun intended) of tests, then put them on an oil rig. These guys are merciless with tools. Having seen what these drills went through I bought them. But I am interested in the Festool line as I have quite a bit of their gear and I love the product.

Dan

There is no Impact driver in the Festool lineup that compares to the Panny 14.4 Brushless impact driver. Sorry it's the truth..If thats what you have, look no further. If it's a drill/driver you want, the Festool C-Handles are other-worldly. Go get a few in your hand to make sure it's what you want.
[/quote]

 

[erock]

I can't believe no one has mentioned the Ryobi cordless drills.  [scratch chin]    [tongue]

My brother-in-law has one and says it's great when he goes to use it and the batteries are dead because they sit around for a week not being used.

Eric

 

[electricald]

Hello again Brice,
Well I went and placed an order for the T18/3 model and I bought it with the right angle and eccentric chucks. I also ordered the Centrotec 98 piece installers set as well as the 5mm self centering bit. I did that after watching Dave Reinhold exhibit the 98 piece set that he ordered. I had it on my wish list so I put it in with the order. I liked it and I wanted it. I have to be honest here and one of the guys mentioned it, I rarely used the impact driver. The thing here too that I find very helpful is to reach out to experienced hands and get advice. There were two people that advised me against purchasing the impact unit, so right off the bat I conceded. I still have the Panasonic pencil type driver:
http://shop.panasonic.com/shop/model/EY7410LA2S

It is a great tool as well and with all the cordless drills/drivers I am surprised that Festool hasn't come up with a model that parallels this setup. Anyway guys, the deed is done. Once again thanks so much for the help.
And thanks Brice for the input; you have weighed in on many of my posts. It was because of you that I bought the OF 1400 router and not the 2200. I am brand new at this and there is nothing like getting help from the experienced.
Sincerest Regards,
Dan

Hey JMB,

Well, you are number two on the don't do it list. Very interesting.
And thanks for weighing in on this.
Dan

There does seem to be plenty of people that the Ti15 isn't Festool strongest release.  The biggest complaint is the lack of good torque in drilling mode.  Also, it is not the most powerful 15v impact out there, some say it is average in that regard. 

I think it could be a decent tool for some people as long you are aware of it's limitations.  In fact I decided to give one a try.  I picked up a basic (impact only in the super cool Sys3 with two drill insert).  My thought is I didn't want to have another brand of drill/impact to carry around.  I want one brand, with the same voltage for my cordless tools.  I haven't had a chance to try it out yet.  I'll try it out for 30 days and if it doesn't fit my needs, I'll return it.  Remember the 30 day return policy is no gimmick, if a tool doesn't work out for you there is no one that wants you to be satisfied more than Festool.  Good luck. 

 

[JUDOKA]

Hi there I'm in the same trade ,I bought festool drills partly because i like the system and the quality i am very happy with the tools but the brute strength is not there .Ocasionally i have to drill some holes in metal boxes in a remote location it takes a while . im keeping my festools but shopping for something much stronger like shoulder and elbow twisting hilti .

 

[jmbfestool]

Hello again Brice,
Well I went and placed an order for the T18/3 model and I bought it with the right angle and eccentric chucks. I also ordered the Centrotec 98 piece installers set as well as the 5mm self centering bit. I did that after watching Dave Reinhold exhibit the 98 piece set that he ordered. I had it on my wish list so I put it in with the order. I liked it and I wanted it. I have to be honest here and one of the guys mentioned it, I rarely used the impact driver. The thing here too that I find very helpful is to reach out to experienced hands and get advice. There were two people that advised me against purchasing the impact unit, so right off the bat I conceded. I still have the Panasonic pencil type driver:
http://shop.panasonic.com/shop/model/EY7410LA2S

It is a great tool as well and with all the cordless drills/drivers I am surprised that Festool hasn't come up with a model that parallels this setup. Anyway guys, the deed is done. Once again thanks so much for the help.
And thanks Brice for the input; you have weighed in on many of my posts. It was because of you that I bought the OF 1400 router and not the 2200. I am brand new at this and there is nothing like getting help from the experienced.
Sincerest Regards,
Dan

Hey JMB,

Well, you are number two on the don't do it list. Very interesting.
And thanks for weighing in on this.
Dan

There does seem to be plenty of people that the Ti15 isn't Festool strongest release.  The biggest complaint is the lack of good torque in drilling mode.  Also, it is not the most powerful 15v impact out there, some say it is average in that regard. 

I think it could be a decent tool for some people as long you are aware of it's limitations.  In fact I decided to give one a try.  I picked up a basic (impact only in the super cool Sys3 with two drill insert).  My thought is I didn't want to have another brand of drill/impact to carry around.  I want one brand, with the same voltage for my cordless tools.  I haven't had a chance to try it out yet.  I'll try it out for 30 days and if it doesn't fit my needs, I'll return it.  Remember the 30 day return policy is no gimmick, if a tool doesn't work out for you there is no one that wants you to be satisfied more than Festool.  Good luck. 

You made the right choice getting the T18. You won't be disappointed!  Like you would of been if you had gotten the Ti15 impact. 

If you want an impact still after using T18.  I would go steal your Panasonic back from him or buy another one.
 
Panasonic impacts are pretty much the best for size weight and power.

 

[Kev]

I've been using my Ti15 quite a bit - but only as an impact. It does an OK job ... as an impact!!

The comments Alex made about it feeling tippy are correct. I only had to play with the extended chuck arrangement for a couple of minutes to know that they'd never leave the Systainer again. So normal drilling isn't a target with the Ti15 for me.

I will grab the next incarnation of impact when Fes-Pro-Tool brings one out ... I'm going to stick with Festool/Protool in this tool segment  [wink]

I still believe that the Ti15 is a reasonable partner if you buy it bare in concert with a T15 or C15 set.