If I could only have one power tool, I would have no hesitation choosing which one it would be…a drill.  No question.

 

Our drill makes an appearance in many of my projects, like this shelf I built for Cottages & Bungalows…

 

(Okay, my husband helped on that one.)  …and you can see it in a couple of tutorials in Inspired You…

 

We had a nice drill, but after about six years of hard labor, the batteries weren’t holding their charge as well and the drill itself was getting a little tired.  It was time for an update.  We headed to our local True Value to see what they had.  My husband is a major researcher when it comes to tool purchases, so he knew exactly what he wanted…

 

…the Makita 18 Volt Compact XLT Lithium Ion Driver/Drill.  He practically hugged it all the way to the register.  As we were walking out of the store, one of the True Value Hardwarians said, “You just bought the best drill in the world.”

My husband handles most of the power tools, but I do use them as well, so I like it when I like them as much as he does.  I instantly liked the Makita better than any drill I’ve used.  First of all, it’s light and the grip is comfortable for a woman’s hand.  I find a lot of power tools (even paint brushes and roller handles) to be pretty bulky for me, but this grip is perfect.

 

This is a simple thing, but I love that there is a light that activates when the trigger is squeezed.  It’s nice to be able to see what you’re doing a little bit better.

 

Changing batteries in power tools usually involves squeezing the tool between my knees as I work at getting the battery off until I’m red in the face.  It normally ends in me handing it over to my husband.  I’m not exaggerating, either!  (Maybe it’s because of my freakish double-jointed thumbs?)  Anyway, I can easily change the battery on the Makita.  It’s small, lightweight and doesn’t involve any knee-squeezing or husband-getting.

 

..and just like any other drill, you can change out the bits to do everything from drilling holes and driving screws to mixing paint or buffing a finish with special attachments.  At $180, it’s pricey for someone who only uses a drill occasionally, but an excellent purchase for a DIY/wood working enthusiast.

I was one of the bloggers selected by True Value to work on the DIY Squad. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program as well as my writing about my experience. I have also been compensated for the materials needed for my DIY project. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.