looking for a lightweight power drill

Printable View

10-08-2012, 01:52 PM
ilyaz

looking for a lightweight power drill

Up until now, I've taken apart all my computers by hand. I tried to use a power drill that I have to unscrew the myriad screw inside desktops and servers but found that it was too heavy and bulky. First, my hand got tired quickly. Second, I had a hard time reaching into corners etc.

Doing it by hand is kind of a pain too. So I am looking for a lightweight power drill that would be close in size and weight to a large screwdriver while having enough battery power to last for a reasonably long time. Actually, I probably don't need a battery-operated one, I can plug it into an AC outlet too, although one with a battery would be more versatile.

Also I would be willing to pay more for a reliable unit instead of getting a cheap piece of junk that will break after 20 screws.

Any recommendations? Thanks!
10-08-2012, 02:13 PM
KzScrapper

I use a Makita Impact Driver...Smaller and lighter then the drill put packs a punch when needed.
Makita LXT Lithium-Ion 1/4 in. 18-Volt Cordless Impact Driver Kit BTD141 at The Home Depot
10-08-2012, 02:13 PM
ggariepy

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

Up until now, I've taken apart all my computers by hand. I tried to use a power drill that I have to unscrew the myriad screw inside desktops and servers but found that it was too heavy and bulky. First, my hand got tired quickly. Second, I had a hard time reaching into corners etc.

...

Any recommendations? Thanks!

It's not clear if what you've already tried was a battery powered cordless drill or a plug-in tool. I've been taking computers apart for decades -- literally -- and I've used cordless drills to do it. Those cordless screwdrivers don't have enough battery to last for long. If the weight of the battery is getting you down, a $30 Dewalt corded drill with a screwdriver bit will be a little lighter and a lot more powerful, and should last for a long, long time with reasonable care. In the end, though, you're going to have to use a regular screwdriver for some of the fasteners because they're hard to reach. Make sure you get a long Philips bit -- they have some that are about 6-8 inches long at Lowes for under $10.
10-08-2012, 02:34 PM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by ggariepy

It's not clear if what you've already tried was a battery powered cordless drill or a plug-in tool. I've been taking computers apart for decades -- literally -- and I've used cordless drills to do it. Those cordless screwdrivers don't have enough battery to last for long. If the weight of the battery is getting you down, a $30 Dewalt corded drill with a screwdriver bit will be a little lighter and a lot more powerful, and should last for a long, long time with reasonable care. In the end, though, you're going to have to use a regular screwdriver for some of the fasteners because they're hard to reach. Make sure you get a long Philips bit -- they have some that are about 6-8 inches long at Lowes for under $10.

I've tried both. In order to reach better what I think I need -- ideally -- is some type of bit "extender" (not sure what the exact term is), i.e. a long adapter that I can use to plug all the different bits I have. Just a Philips would be good but not enough: right now for example I am going through a bunch of HP desktops that all have hex screws.

Also, I think, corded or cordless, if a drill has a typical pistol shape, it will be tiring to use for long periods of time. What I think I am looking for is a pencil-/screwdriver-shaped ones (like this) but which would be corded.
10-08-2012, 02:48 PM
IdahoScrapper

Here are a few electric screwdrivers. I would look on ebay for a used one before I put down $450+.

Electric Screwdriver | FlexibleAssembly.com
10-08-2012, 02:52 PM
IdahoScrapper

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

I've tried both. In order to reach better what I think I need -- ideally -- is some type of bit "extender" (not sure what the exact term is), i.e. a long adapter that I can use to plug all the different bits I have. Just a Philips would be good but not enough: right now for example I am going through a bunch of HP desktops that all have hex screws.

1/4" hex extension is what you're after.
10-08-2012, 02:57 PM
miked

I use a set of bits I bought from Harbor Freight. There is about six of them in the set and are about 6 in. long. They are multi-colored so it will be easier to find. On the drill I like the looks of the 12v lion Ryobi. Its listed at Home Depot for $79 and comes with two batteries. I'm going to get one later this month. Mike.
10-08-2012, 03:04 PM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by IdahoScrapper

Here are a few electric screwdrivers. I would look on ebay for a used one before I put down $450+.

Electric Screwdriver | FlexibleAssembly.com

I did a quick search on ebay and found some DC screwdrivers (e.g. this) which are much cheaper than AC ones. Do you think it has enough power for your typical screw?
10-08-2012, 05:36 PM
Scrap man

Here's a high-end bit extender. I'm pretty sure Home Depot sells shorter ones cheaper. I don't know if it would work with the hex bits though, especially if they're the bits with the more shallow grooves on the side

https://www.plumbersstock.com/#produ...FQqk4AodGTAAug
10-08-2012, 05:42 PM
IdahoScrapper

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

I did a quick search on ebay and found some DC screwdrivers (e.g. this) which are much cheaper than AC ones. Do you think it has enough power for your typical screw?

Can't tell for sure, but I don't think that's 1/4" hex. So those bits will only work with that screwdriver, and any hex bits you have can't be used with that.
10-08-2012, 05:51 PM
IdahoScrapper

This is what I use to get motherboards out. Easy to reach the screws, plus it has a magnetic tip.

http://www.homedepot.com/Milwaukee/h...1#.UHN02K5CObw

Also great for getting into deep recesses on some TV's. Can't do that with an extension.
10-08-2012, 06:08 PM
Libertytow

pricey maybe but putas shame to all else i cannot live without my 7.2 volt snap on cordless screwdriver and ratcheting screwdreiver
10-08-2012, 06:13 PM
broughy84

SKIL 2260-01 18-Volt 3/8-Inch Drill/Driver Kit - Amazon.com

That's what I use.
10-08-2012, 06:26 PM
scrapperben

my cordless weighs about 6lb so I had the same problem with a sore hand after a while.
I found alternating between cordless and just a screwdriver helped a bit.
but for little things I got this one..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2YKKxBUiFk
10-08-2012, 06:29 PM
mikeinreco

Quote:

Originally Posted by KZBell

I use a Makita Impact Driver...Smaller and lighter then the drill put packs a punch when needed.
Makita LXT Lithium-Ion 1/4 in. 18-Volt Cordless Impact Driver Kit BTD141 at The Home Depot

Easily one of the best tools on the market.........This tool has made me thousands, upon thousands of dollars
10-08-2012, 07:29 PM
Mechanic688

I bought this one from Kmart on closeout, and after using it for a while now, it definitely will outlast the Black&Decker that I had been using. I do breakdowns for about 4-5 hours at a time and the battery will easily last the whole time. It has an adjustable clutch and can be adjusted from a straight to a pistol style.
http://s.shld.net/is/image/Sears/009...arpen=1&qlt=85
10-08-2012, 08:02 PM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mechanic688

I bought this one from Kmart on closeout, and after using it for a while now, it definitely will outlast the Black&Decker that I had been using. I do breakdowns for about 4-5 hours at a time and the battery will easily last the whole time. It has an adjustable clutch and can be adjusted from a straight to a pistol style.
http://s.shld.net/is/image/Sears/009...arpen=1&qlt=85

Do you happen to have its model number?
10-08-2012, 08:06 PM
Mechanic688

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

Do you happen to have its model number?

Here you go,,,Craftsman 3.6-Volt Cordless 1/4" Screwdriver 11139 - Gifts - By Recipient - For Him
10-08-2012, 08:08 PM
nebrs13

There is a sthl at wally world for like 20-30
10-08-2012, 08:22 PM
corycouch

For computers we use an m12 Milwaukee 1/4 impact driver with a kobalt 6inch magnetic extension, works great
10-08-2012, 08:22 PM
IdahoScrapper

I got the last 3 at my Kmart. Haven't tried Sears. If you find they're out of stock at your store, I see a few on ebay.

craftsman cordless screwdriver | eBay

My only "gripe" if you will, is I wish it had a higher rpm. It's 180. But hey, for only SIX bucks, I certainly can't complain.
10-08-2012, 10:18 PM
Mechanic688

Quote:

Originally Posted by IdahoScrapper

I got the last 3 at my Kmart. Haven't tried Sears. If you find they're out of stock at your store, I see a few on ebay.

My only "gripe" if you will, is I wish it had a higher rpm. It's 180. But hey, for only SIX bucks, I certainly can't complain.

My thought was that when it quits then it won't hurt so bad to scrap it. Best 6 bucks I've spent in awhile.
10-08-2012, 10:39 PM
IdahoScrapper

Agreed. Heck, dinner cost more than that and I'll lose it tomorrow. lol tmi, I know.
10-09-2012, 07:48 AM
ggariepy

Quote:

Originally Posted by IdahoScrapper

This is what I use to get motherboards out. Easy to reach the screws, plus it has a magnetic tip.

6 in. #2 Phillips Shockwave Driver Bit-48-32-4802 at The Home Depot

Also great for getting into deep recesses on some TV's. Can't do that with an extension.

Those are the best! I just misplaced mine the other day...it's buried someplace in the junk in the garage, and I may have to run out and buy another one I miss it so! ;)

I REALLY need to work on better organization in the garage. Stuff goes flying all over when I use the Jack The Scrapper method of disassembly, my tools end up all over the place, and I wind up not being able to find a darn thing. We took 5 TVs apart last night and it looks like the place got hit with a bomb.
10-09-2012, 08:17 AM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mechanic688

My thought was that when it quits then it won't hurt so bad to scrap it. Best 6 bucks I've spent in awhile.

Looks like it's pretty popular: it's not available in-store within 300 miles of my ZIP. :-) I guess I'll have to order online and pay for shipping. But still pretty cheap.
10-09-2012, 08:23 AM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

Looks like it's pretty popular: it's not available in-store within 300 miles of my ZIP. :-) I guess I'll have to order online and pay for shipping. But still pretty cheap.

Rats, it's out of stock. Available at other places for $20+. Still seems to be a good deal. Thanks much for the pointer!
10-09-2012, 08:44 AM
drozenski

These are the best tools i bought

all have been Ryobi tools.

The 12 volt for tougher jobs
Ryobi 12V Li-Ion :: 12 Volt Compact Drill

I also have 2 of these for the every day stuff. Works great on PC cases, super lite wrist never gets tired the the battery lasts about 4-6 hours of use. Also fits in tight spaces. Get a driver extension for it and i garentee it will be the best tool you ever bought. costs about $30 but you can find it on sale sometimes. Pick up an extra battery too if you work long days.

** This isnt for drving screws into wood or those type jobs. This is best for taking appart PC's **
Ryobi TEK4 :: TEK4 4-Volt Screwdriver
10-11-2012, 08:35 AM
ilyaz

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

Rats, it's out of stock. Available at other places for $20+. Still seems to be a good deal. Thanks much for the pointer!

Picked it up from Sears the other day and tried it on a few server boxes. I like it! As other people said, its RPM is a bit low but the good thing is that it seem to have enough torque to do those occasional screws that are hard because they got screwed in too tight or because of rust or dirt.

Another nice thing that it does not take much space. Plus it takes a standard 1/4" hex extender.

Overall, a great addition to my tool chest.
10-11-2012, 08:42 AM
Mechanic688

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilyaz

Picked it up from Sears the other day and tried it on a few server boxes. I like it! As other people said, its RPM is a bit low but the good thing is that it seem to have enough torque to do those occasional screws that are hard because they got screwed in too tight or because of rust or dirt.
Another nice thing that it does not take much space. Plus it takes a standard 1/4" hex extender.
Overall, a great addition to my tool chest.

When you get ready to break the screw loose just give the driver a slight twist to break it loose first before hitting the trigger.
10-11-2012, 12:23 PM
Gravitar

I like using this for electronics: Bosch PS10-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Driver Kit - Amazon.com kinda long, but powerful. "thats what she said" There, I already got it over with so yall don't have to.