Most manufacturers will state that the life of batteries in terms of
the number of charging and discharging cycles. I remember reading from
somewhere that rechargeable batteries has a shelf life even when the
batteries are not used.

For e.g., when the batteries are not being used, they will still be
"dead" say after 24 months or so. I also heard that for infreqently
used rechargeable batteries, it is necessary to store them at a very
low temperature (about 10 deg. C) in order to to prolong the shelf
life.

I intend to buy a cordless screw driver mainly for use in driving
screws on cabinets, walls etc. And I will use it only about 3 to 4
times per year. And if the batteries really have shelf life, it would
not be econimcal. Would it be better to get the corded tool instead?

Thanks!