"Newbie" wrote in message
.. .

If 75W bulb is sufficient for my needs, who cares? More to the point, if
we
agree that 300 pounds of torque is enough for just about any kind of house
project, then why pay double for something I won't need?

Absolutely. Around the house it should be fine. Don't buy the extra
batteries untill you need them and consider having them rebuilt by
PrimeCell.


I read somewher that you get most bang for a buck in 9.6 batteries, for
the
reasons you described.

Actualluy I believe in that philosophy also. Untill last December all of my
drills have beem 9.6 volt except for a 20 year old 7.2 volt right angle
Makita. The power was plenty. I stepped up to a 12 volt Makita so that I
could get an Impact driver and a free M force drill for $199 with 2, 2.6 amp
batteries and charger.



I used a 12V Ryobi R10510 to build my 12x16ft deck. Worked like a champ,
driving effotlessly hundreds of 2 3/4 inch screws. Bateries died after 5
years, but hey, Ryobi is also classified as el cheapo brand

Some times the batteries will last longer if cycled regularilly. The
battery in my 20 year old Makita still takes a charge, it does not last
long but I seldom need to make many holes with a right angle drill. Most
batteries are totally shot after 6 or 7 years.




Really? I know quite a few folks who would choose Hyundai Sonata over
Honda
Civic given the similar price range. No doubt Honda has better overall
reputation, but that doesn't mean every Honda wouold be preferred over
every
Hyundai.

Yeah, many people like the warranty. I prefer the reliability. I retired
from the automotive industry at 40 and worked for a GM dealer for almost 10
years as parts manager, service sales manager, and parts director at various
times. Honda and Toyota are the ones to beat as far as reliability goes.