Tool Brand Loyalty: We're all Biased.

Our tools are an extension of ourselves. There are some of my favorites when it comes to tool brand loyalty! What are yours?
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[@MenAreSpeaking]

I used to work as an engineer for DEWALT. I HATED our super fans for one and only one reason: even if we built a subpar tool, they loved it and would buy it. This means that management wouldn't let us improve the product. Squeeky wheels get the grease, and super fans shout over the squeeking of the wheel. Essentially, when people are blindly loyal, marketing wins out over engineering. Super fans KILL the brands they love. The fans who make lengthy KZbin videos detailing why my tools sucks makes me happy. This means management will give me the budget to fix the issue. My favorite customers are always on the verge of jumping to Milwaukee. Management should always be nervous about quality. The customers are a crucial part of a healthy product.

[@TheUncleRuckus]

And that's why I love watching channels The Torque Test Channel, it lets us consumers see those tools squeaky wheels without the annoying fan bois noise.

[@chaseweeks2708]

@@TheUncleRuckus Also AvE, when he tears down brand new tools and talks mad smack about their build quality if he finds them wanting.

[@SPDFRK]

@@chaseweeks2708 and he's funny as hell.

[@AlanTheBeast100]

I only own one DeWalt tool - a cordless 12V impact driver. It is not the the "top end" that DeWalt offered, but it's been a highly reliable and effective tool for over 10 years and I use it still today. I would never tell anyone not to get DeWalt. I personally avoided DeWalt for political reasons (They support Trump) when I needed a new drill and went with Makita (Japanese made in China alas - it was also on sale that day!). As I look at getting something else I could go with any of them - the whole "battery" base thing is more important for a tradesman, but is not as important for a DIYer. As such - get the same if possible but don't obsess over it. KZbin influencers have a lot of effect on the weak minded, alas.

[@Mrburnsti]

I was a huge DeWalt fan, untill my cordless framing nailer broke down. It lasted just the warranty time, and cost to get it fixed was same than buying a new one. Never abused it an serviced it as instructed. It just decided not to sink nails anymore. Then i bought Milwaukee framing nailer. Warranty went out long ago and still rocking. Every other tool i have is Makita. Will never buy another DeWalt.

[@StillLivinginthewoods]

My "loyalty" is to quality, not to some brand name that is bought and sold like any other commodity. When the quality is no longer there, neither is my loyalty. It really is as simple as that.

[@Elloris]

Came here to say this. The purpose of a tool is to get the job done. Now we as humans like heuristics and shortcuts that reduce the amount of decisions and research we need to do. Brands take advantage of that. But yeah look at the ownership history of most tool brands and its a multinational corporation that is mining the brand for all the good will it has built up previously.

[@snymat_68]

I 100% agree, but with the additional caveat of buying into a battery system for cordless tools. One can't deny that carries SOME weight in the decision-making process.

[@davidparker9676]

Why be loyal to them when they are not loyal to us?

[@jackmen4]

I mean, with cordless tools it’s more about how much money have you put in the ecosystem. I started with a dewalt impact and then I thought: “man I need a jobsite fan, why not a dewalt fan since I have already have dewalt batteries” and then I jumped into that rabbit hole without realizing and havent come out of it since. But loyalty…….. not really.

[@marsrevolutionary]

Backing this up. I own a collection of Ridgid tools because I have a collection of Ridgid batteries from tools I bought 20 years ago, not because I have any loyalty to them. I should just invest in a set of battery adapters so I can just pick up the tools and batteries I want regardless of brand.

[@MakeAndFixItYourSelfProjects]

Same, especially after buying a bunch of the dewalt 5 and 6 AMP hour batteries. It’s cheaper to just buy another drill driver set than Replace those, now I have the hand held bandsaw, the multi tool, a few sets of drill, drivers, the 1/2” impact, I’m not brand loyal I m just too far down the rabbit hole

[@bholdr----0]

Yeah, battery compatibility is one BIG reason to stick with a brand.

[@americanangler94559]

Good episode

[@lucilledog8832]

Same.

[@Rio_Seco]

My dad was a journeymen carpenter and worked in the trades his entire life. His cordless tools were always Makita. They last. I ended up going the same direction probably due to his influence, but also because Makita is the last independent company that makes and sells power tools under its own brand. The rest are conglomerates with multiple brands, and companies. Corporate consolidation has created an oligopoly with most brands being made by just a few companies.

[@foxotcw30]

Same. When my grinder developed a rattle after years of use, the Makita service center replaced the broken bushing and power cord at no charge. I have to have a very good reason to buy a non-Makita power tool.

[@kiwigrunt330]

My first battery drill was a 9.6V Metabo from the eighties. Lasted a good 20 years. Replaced it with a set (drill and driver) of Makita tools. Lasted about five minutes. Absolute crap. The red batteries were the problem. Replaced with a set of lithium battery tools. The drill won't engage in second gear. My old Makita sabre saw, however, lasted about 30 years.

[@Erik_The_Viking]

My dad gave me his old cordless Makita drill from the 80's - still worked until the old NiCad battery finally gave up the ghost.

[@Bigroomboy]

Don't forget festool is still family owned.

[@myyoutubepage1]

Exact reason I chose Makita

[@robinbennett5994]

It's worth knowing that most brands have a very wide array of versions of everything. You might think that buying Makita or Dewalt or whatever gets a certain quality, but they make 20 different cordless drills that all look similar, with varying levels of quality for different retailers. They rely on the reputation generated by their high-end tools to help sell the cheap ones that aren't nearly as good.

[@Caderic]

Yeah, I learned that a few years ago. I kind of hate it too. Now you have to do research to know the quality even with in the same brand!

[@oogrooq]

Another Dutch saying: Trust comes in on foot but leaves on horse.

[@erklauber6260]

I’m 22 years old and I work as a concrete laborer for a heavy highway construction company. I absolutely love your videos. A instructor in trade school used a couple of your videos for lecture. And I can’t stop watching them. The knowledge and wisdom that you provide is not just useful it’s helpful. It makes me love my work when I think back on it. I hope that as years pass I can become successful in the industry and be able to become as knowledgeable as you are to me for someone else.

[@m.b.boyack2228]

The more pertinent question may be, how much loyalty does the tool brand I use or favor, have towards me the customer. "Right to Repair", after sales Service & Repair, Warranty, Battery Platform stability and accessibility, Accessories and Parts availability and price. Brand Loyalty appears to exist in only one direction these days.

[@gloriousapplebees]

So true

[@donfrank4429]

I always wipe or blow off the saw dust from my tools and put them away , my Dad and brothers taught me that when I was growing up watching them work and then they would have me clean the tools before putting them away

[@josephdestaubin7426]

I don't know about all that, but running air into the motor intake and exhaust will absolutely extend the life of the motor otherwise covered in sawdust.

[@donfrank4429]

@@josephdestaubin7426 I still have my skill saw 15 years, craftsman 10 in miter saw 1998 and Craftsman 1996 10 in Radial arm saw still running and my other and power hand tools and air tools. even after I am done for the day and tired I clean my tools then take my shower. as we would say in the military " you take care of your equipment the equipment will take care of you"

[@Hoaxer51]

Your Dad and brothers taught you a great lesson. When you’re done using your tools, clean them off and put them away and the next time you need one you’ll know where it’s at and that it’s ready to go.

[@donfrank4429]

@@Hoaxer51 I even clean my safety glasses and put them away.

[@johncostello3162]

I have been a carpenter/ contractor for 43 years. My skill saws model 77 are my go to framing tools are will always be in my tool box

[@gofgwoodworking]

I have to say, I bought my worm drive skilsaw in 1977, my very first power toll, I still have it, it still works, I've used it nearly every day.

[@Rudevette]

I’m mostly Milwaukee but also own Bosch, dewalt, makita, a corded skill aluminum worm drive etc. they’re all fine. I started 30 years ago with lower quality tools then upgraded. Through the years I would have a new young laborer working for me and they would ask to borrow a tool to use at home over the weekend. If they’re a good hand I would find one of those older tools that still works just fine and give it to them to keep. An old black and decker corded saw or recip saw was a fine tool and will get a young person started, plus they’ll get to feel the real power of a good corded tool.😉

[@georgetarabini6552]

When I bought my power tools, Milwaukee, porter cable, Bosch, Skillsaw, they all came in metal boxes, still got them, can’t kill them

[@Gzus]

I'm a DIY weekend warrior. In my opinion, for cordless tools, the darn battery platforms hold more people "captive" than "loyal." I stubbornly held onto my old 18V XRP Dewalts for 10+ years because I didn't want to buy new tools + batteries + chargers. However, that all changed last year when I finally bit the bullet and bought a full set of Milwaukee Fuel. The power and speed that these new tools put out versus my old Dewalts is amazing. It's also incredible that I can now work for all or most of a day on a single battery per tool, which is something I haven't done since my old Dewalts were new.

[@allenriff9242]

The new Dewalt 20v last just as long as Milwaukee, I know I use both platforms in my business both are great tools.

[@guyewing1377]

100% agree about the skilsaw. I started working as a carpenter around 1978 and was a journeyman for many years. First skilsaw was all metal (no mag back then) but have stuck with them all the way. Still have a porter cable router made in Jackson, Tennessee. If you look at most tools sold anywhere in America practically all are made in china. Most are affordable and disposable. Not any good ole goid ones anymore. Still have my first set of leather nail bags almost 50 years old!

[@ronfry5807]

Dewalt is my go to, mainly due to not needing different batteries/chargers for the different tools. Started with Dewalt many years ago and so far have had no problems with anything I have bought . Thanks for your insight!

[@garyworley5806]

Old Porter Cable tools are bomb proof. You can rely on them. When all these companies started merging the quality of previous quality tools went South.

[@brent57]

Interesting to watch aVe BOLTR videos on some of these brands of tools. From injection molding quality to the internal components such as bearings, switches, etc . He really gets in there and figures out just how cheap (or expensive) these tool brands are.

[@Alpha-ro8sc]

​@@brent57 Agreed. Uncle Bumble is a rich resource of information.

[@Hoaxer51]

@@Alpha-ro8sc, And he’s always good for a couple good laughs!

[@51-FS]

I was a cut man for a framing crew for over 10 years, the red mag 77 was the only saw I ever used. Still got the first one I ever bought and used all them years. Never have checked grease in it. Have only put new cords on it.

[@Mike-sy6oy]

Lol this is like bragging about never changing the oil in your car.

[@51-FS]

But I have owned it for over 20 years now and the motor doesn't even knock....

[@haywood69]

We need to hear the 44 magnum story

[@MRBoatwrights]

That's the same comment I was going to make. I love listening to a good story teller telling a good story.

[@SjoerdErik]

oh yeah.

[@yowie0889]

The other person was Inspector Harold Francis Callahan

[@boxybox100]

yeah what the hell? how do you just gloss over that!

[@bobireland1256]

Definitely gotta hear that story! Pray maintain speed and course!

[@GS-lh2nx]

Cords on tools are like an anti-theft device.

[@G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

So true. IMHO, you also can’t beat the reliable, consistent power that a corded (or pneumatic) tool provides.

[@mike_onevia6465]

i get it, but you dont make any money running air and cord out day after day unless you have lacky$$$, Australian here! we are NOT winning at building houses, infarct %30 of builders are going under.....

[@GS-lh2nx]

@@mike_onevia6465 Cords are certainly an obstacle but I think we have bought into the mentality of a completely cordless job site. Stationary tools like a chop saw or table saw are not moving around a lot. Even specialty tools that are limited in their use might be better corded because of cost savings. Homeowners in their garage really don't need the portability and yet many replace good tools with cordless ones. The tools companies have made all of us feel that we need to replace everything to cordless and they are laughing all the way to the bank. I do like cordless for a lot of tools. Just not everything.

[@davidparker9676]

@@G.I.JeffsWorkbench Yes, consistently low power. You haven't worked with higher end cordless tools lately if you think the corded tools have anywhere near as much power as the brushless cordless tools. Honestly there is no comparison. That goes for most pneumatic tools too.

[@JasonLuther1]

The pneumatic framing nailer and corded angle grinder reign supreme for prolonged use​ and dogging on all day @@davidparker9676

[@anthonylutz1365]

My dad was an independent contractor/builder when I was a kid, back in the 80s, I was a helper on the job site. I remember he acquired a deck&blacker (that's what we called it, blacker than the Pit of Despair!) wormdrive saw, it was broke more than it worked! The motor ate brushes for breakfast, it growled at you like a bear when you pulled the trigger, the cord came out of the back and was hanging by the wires, the motor threw enough blue Sparks that you thought it was going to start a fire! That was the worst tool on the job!! We finally gave its dead carcass a spot in a box in the shop because we never wanted to throw anything away, but we finally quit using the miserable thing, after it would dump you in the middle of the day on a job. The mighty wormdrive Skillsaw was our stand by that never ever failed us even once! I think he still has it to this day

[@kansasscout4322]

40 years later mine still works great. my favorite worm drive. LOL.

[@JB-ej2qy]

Love my Skilsaw. Mine is 40 yrs strong. Other brands I like, Dewalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Paslode and Senco.

[@diverdave4056]

back in 1986 I bought the Gold painted Skil 50th Anniversary Mag 77 with the blue metal carrying case ! many have asked WHY I painted it GOLD ? I told them it was sold this way .. and Yes it still works like brand new .

[@user-ed5jh3ff6u]

My buddy still has his

[@FloridaTwoWheelAdventures]

In 2005, I bought a 1999 Silverado 2500 HD 4x4 with 83,000 miles on it and today, it sits in my driveway with 330,000 miles on it. Has never let me down but I felt it performed all the work I could reasonably expect it to do. So last year, I bought a brand new 2023 Silverado 2500 HD 4x4 based exclusively on the performance of my old one. At 50 years old, I do not expect I’ll buy another truck in my lifetime barring a major collision. I’ve owned 3 pickups over my lifetime and 1 SUV, a 1996 GMC Jimmy. The first truck was a 1987 Chevy 1/2 ton. General Motors has never let me down. Others may disagree but when I need to go anywhere, I do not think twice about my vehicles. Well, all except for that 2008 Jeep Wrangler my wife insisted on owning! She loves it though so I do not complain about any of the work I need to do on it. In fact, I should thank the Jeep. It justified my purchase of a 2 post lift a few years ago!

[@martywilkinson6722]

I worked at Porter Cable in the late 90’s. I worked in the Engineering department and luckily bought several tools. Everything was so well built. We had belt sander and routers there that were decades old. It’s so sad to see what Porter Cable has turned into, but I still treasure my corded tools from then. Now I use Dewalt, Makita, and Milwaukee cordless platforms. I love them all.

[@1northsparrow246]

I just wish the current owners would let the name Porter-Cable ride off in the sunset.

[@maxscriptguru]

Any boy who grew up with a home full of tools is a blessed boy. My Dad had all sorts of tools, and I am following in his footsteps. Not a tradesman, but a software guy. But still skilled enough to have finished my own basement, and built my own shed.

[@jameski5oeb668]

I worked at a lumber yard in 1992 as a young 20s year old. It taught me a couple things about tools. Porter Cable at the time was the best tool available at the time with Bosch right with it. Bosch is still a top brand and Dewalt exploded from the B&D Professional line. I totally agree about brand loyalty, best tool you can afford and treat it good, you have a jobber friend for life. I purchased a 6” left blade Porter cable corded circ saw in 1994 and I still use it at home over a battery version. It just works. Thanks for the video!

[@DT-lr2bi]

Totally Agree on Skill Worm Drive and Makita battery-powered tools.😊 I use Ryobi around the house. Thanks for your comments. I learn so much from your channel.

[@MEK-qi4ze]

My grandpa bought me a B&D jigsaw and delivered a box of scrap wood with it on my 6th birthday. I still use that jigsaw today 45 years later

[@BubbasDad]

I can't remember ever using anything other than a skill worm drive. At one time I think I had at least four of them on the job site. The only time I got rid of any of them was when I retired and then still kept one. Oh, another time was when I gave the saw to my son. Then, of course, I had to buy a new 77 for myself.

[@tomfetter4011]

To be blunt ... it's the same loyalty issue with things like KZbin channels. And there's a really good reason why i keep looking at new videos on this one.

[@petermccracken2247]

- Quality is the main concern. You buy cheap, you get cheap. - Most tools bought today are not near as good as they were 20 years ago. - I have 3 PorterCable tools that I purchased 27 years ago [ 1/2 inch drill, SawsAll, & belt Sander ] all are still working great. - My Milwaukee corded saw still works just like it did new. Great saw. Milwaukee has a great dependable product line. A wise investment. - The Big Thing To Remember Is = Take Care Of Your Tools And The Tools Will Take Care Of You. - Thank You for another great well-delivered video.

[@bobrodenkirch]

I have 5 worm drives and would never use anything different…for one reason is the safety! I got 61/2, 71/2, 10”, 16” and the newer table saw…great investments

[@BobBlarneystone]

I have a sturdy '70s Rockwell 10" table saw (new arbor bearings, beefy Baldor motor) that I can't give away. Everybody wants one they can throw in the back of the pickup, and even better if it's battery-powered. I think it may go to the Habit for Humanity store soon, for some young person who's working every day on the job and then comes home to work on the house.

[@lvtiguy226]

I have an old (probably 70s or 80s) Sears Jigsaw that will probably pass on to my kids when my time comes. So many electric tools, gadgets, entertainment and computer equipment are built for planned obsolescence. At least we still have eBay and local Marketplace sites to buy the old stuff that lasts.

[@1northsparrow246]

I collect old tools. With its bidding war mentality, Ebay is usually the most expensive place to shop for them.

[@matttafakt]

I've got a Left hand and a Right hand Mag77.. i'm a switch hitter that's prepared for anything !

[@2010stoof]

They make a blade right worm drive? Or you mean sidewinder skills brand? Ski saw is still the only one to have plug in left blade sidewinder (called southpaw) which is awesome

[@aerialrescuesolutions3277]

I was not aware there was a left hand version? This could really come into play, on certain locations. Cool.

[@sleblanc]

Double sawing action!

[@Hoaxer51]

@@sleblanc, One for each hand! Lol

[@Slugg-O]

Years ago I had a corded Metabo hammer drill that was an absolute beast. Sadly, it was stolen. Fast forward to 2023 when I bought a cordless Metabo drill and impact driver. They are decent tools but the quality is nothing like the Metabo of 20 years ago, and I feel the same way about Porter Cable. My father used to tell me how good they were, and I believed him ,not only because he told me but because I remember them covered with battle scars and still getting the job done. It's unfortunate that many manufactures have sacrificed quality for profit.

[@1northsparrow246]

I wish Stanley- Black & Decker would stop making their zombie Porter-Cable tools.

[@davidsawyer1599]

I was working a job that had a 1000s of windows. The glazer contracted is a company that's been around a couple of decades or more. The foreman of the crew was utilizing Ryobi cordless. Those tools looked like they had seen a fair amount of work. Finally, my inquisitiveness got the best of me. So I approached him and asked why Ryobi? "They do the job day in day out. Most importantly, no one steals Ryobi". He then went on to explain in short. Makita,DeWalt, and Milwaukee get legs. The Ryobi apparently doesn't have that flaw. Needed some cordless tools around the house. Spent less money on Ryobi. That was three years ago. They are doing just fine.

[@connecticutoutdoor8028]

I just found your channel new to the trades as an hvac apprentice. Everything I’ve watched so far has been spot on and the way you articulate your opinions and the information you give is outstanding sir definitely gained a new subscriber.

[@MB12116]

I have all the tools more or less in a battery and corded version. Outside of the drill and impact driver, I would say my favorite tool in a battery version is the sawzall. So handy for pipe fitting in the yard or cutting a small branch etc. granted I rarely use my corded tools anyway, but you would have to put up the biggest fight to take away my cordless sawzall.

[@tomoaktree4951]

Look at a Skil tool today, consumer grade only. Back in the 70's I purchased a Skil 449 worm drive belt sander. In my opinion, it's the best belt sander ever made! A true workhorse.

[@DKWalser]

The company making Skil tools also makes Skilsaw tools. Skilsaw is their professional grade line.

[@thomasfogerty3515]

Skill and skill saw are made churvan. The make kolbalt tools skill, skill saws and many other brands.

[@joelnowland2196]

Great Video - I have a 37 year old Bosch jigsaw used 99% for contour cutting 1/4" steel plate - still going strong. I bought another well respected brand - just in case - and even brand new doesn't work anywhere near as well as the old Bosch - So I found a not too used Bosch and bought it.

[@dusty7264]

I still have the Skill 77 I bought in the seventies and it still works, I bought the Mag one when it came out because it was a bit lighter, the old Porter Cable stuff is fantastic. But like a bunch of brands they have sold out and care more about profits than making a quality tool for the professional.

[@1northsparrow246]

I agree. As we saw in the video, the only good news is that you cans still find quality American made tools in the used market.

[@russellstarr9111]

I'm not a professional construction guy. I have been using the Bauer cordless tool 20V line of tools for my little projects for about three years now, and I can't complain. They do what I need to do and haven't given me any trouble.

[@jimyeske8498]

I’m a 20v Dewalt guy. Buying new tools without requiring batteries or charger is good and bad at the same time.

[@MAGAMAN]

I bought a dewalt set a long time ago. I recently bought a Milwaukee cordless nailer and a few extra batteries because it was so much better than the dewalt. I thought I would pick up a few more Milwaukee tools later on. Every time I have looked at a Milwaukee tool I thought might be nice to have, it uses a different type of battery than the Milwaukee batteries I have. That soured me on Milwaukee real fast.

[@jimyeske8498]

@@MAGAMAN Sometimes I see brands other than Dewalt on Marketplace or Kijiji at low prices but since I am locked in with Dewalt I just pass.

[@elchunkacabra1450]

as long as it gets the job done, isnt overpriced, and doesnt just break after a few times using it then it really doesnt matter what name is stamped or printed on the tool

[@jatabor]

I still have a sweet, fully-functioning 7 1/4” Black and Decker Super Sawcat with the large shoe and electric brake. Bought it in 1977 at Northwest Hardware in Roanoke on a 90 day credit plan. I replaced the cord long ago with a heavy duty 12’ cable. With the right blade, I can rip 2x stock all day long. No wobble, no hesitation.

[@zone4garlicfarm]

In the 1990s I worked with a carpenter who used a Sawcat. Someone else on the crew bought a new DeWalt saw. It was identical to the sawcat except for the color.

[@1northsparrow246]

A couple of years ago I bought a Sawcat which was sitting unused, in its original box in a corner of the original owner's basement since 1981. Now it proudly sits unused in the corner of my basement! 😁

[@sessionbox4256]

I love dewalt. When I was a Carpenter's helper I used his makita tools. I liked makita but when I learned about different brands and the fact that dewalt just brought out the flexvolt system I immediately went for those. My christmas gift when i first started my apprenticeship was 2 dewalt tool bags, an 18v Dewalt SDS and a 54v 9ah battery. Ever since then I buy dewalt. I know that the cordless nail guns arent as good as milwaukee or hikoki but apart from that they always do the job for me. Whatever suits you go for. Whether that be by using the one brand or using a mix and match as long as the work is quality

[@xcorne]

Carpenter here. When i started working i had cordless makitas (5year old ones) at the company and we used them alot and of course some people mistreated them alot cuz "eh company tool" but that got me thinking "what if i get my own full kit and only i maintain and use them?". In the end still have them after 8 years and served me well even to this day ❤ (all i had to do untill this day is replace 3x batteries wich is like 150€ in 8 years and charcoal and trigger for the drill 40€ + a shit ton of blades for the skillsaw but that i asked from the company always so never had to buy them myself)

[@brianluck84]

I've been a makita guy since I got my first job that required cordless drill back in 2000

[@tode5675]

PorterCable stopped making every tool that worked from bullet-proof belt sanders to industry standard routers... What a shame.

[@StillLivinginthewoods]

I have an old US made Porter Cable 3 inch belt sander that I bought at a yard sale 10 years ago for $5. The cord was dry rot, so I replaced it, and it still works great. Sometimes when I push it too hard it will start smoking, but it hasn't given up on me yet.

[@ColeSpolaric]

You can blame Stanley Black & Decker for that. Couldn't have PC competing with DeWalt

[@phalanyx3478]

We have a 250lb porter cable belt grinder still in use at the machine shop. Complete cast steel construction. It takes 10x72 belts.

[@DegonTheMighty]

Porter Cable was bought by DeWalt, and their quality was immediately reduced to a homeowner/DIY quality tool so they wouldn't have two brands competing against each other. That's the way it goes, people might be individually good but corporations are greedy and scummy at every opportunity they have.

[@tacticalskiffs8134]

@@DegonTheMighty The Irony is they do B&D also. I used to be loyal to PC because of great experiences, and even some innovations, starting in the 80s, but they don't do anything for me at this point.

[@smitmcgrit1048]

Thank you so much for this video. It means a lot. Honesty is so hard to find as a newbie to the trades.

[@Lee_In_AZ]

Not so much brand, as battery platform. Several years ago I was helping roof a house (basically just supplying labor). The guy running the job had a variety of cordless tool brands. The battery for his circular saw ran out with us having only 5' of sheathing to cut to finish the job. He didn't have any other batteries in that platform, so we had to kill a bunch of time waiting for his saw to get enough of a charge to finish up. I kept that in mind as I was adding to my cordless tools, and kept with the same platform for everything I take out on a job, if possible.

[@jordanstoddard1523]

Ive been watching your channel for a few years now and I've bought tools based on your opinions and experiences with them. Occidental leather bags, buckaroo belt, Stiletto hammer, rigging axe, skilsaw mag 77 and paslode Pneumatic Framing Nailers will never change. I love them. I use them every day to feed my family. All I can say is thank you Scott and everyone on the essential craftsman channel! Keep up the good work!

[@andrewschrotenboer9445]

Love using my vintage hand and electric tools.

[@TheTurpin1234]

I think its good to mention that battery adapters are readily available if you wanna try a particular tool. I forget the brand, but theres also a universal battery, that comes with different adapters that you can use for every tool.

[@user-ed5jh3ff6u]

Been at for a bit, framed for a couple of decades, a large portion of that with gentleman named Tom Bricky that you remind me of, he was fast, efficient and we were always trying new techniques, one of my favorites was taking a Skil 6-1/2” worm drive removing the blade guard and using 7-1/4” blade, we would also remove cord at boot and install a twist lock, the saw was very well balanced and a bit lighter, I always wished they made that saw in a 5-1/2” just for 90 degree cuts in 2x stock, later switched to the mag 77, and then mag 77LT, now my go to is the makita 36v, I only use corded if there is extensive ripping to save battery life, I couldn’t imagine using corded tools for much of anything anymore (except table saw). For context this is my 44th year as a carpenter, thank you the videos, they make me think of younger times.

[@anthonypiligno7618]

Yes sir...great way to put every thing....

[@BrittCHelmsSr]

I love the Ryobi brand becuase of the wide range of tools that use the same 18v batteries. I moved away from Dewalt to go to Ryobi - partly because of my good friends was a Ryobi rep, but mostly because of the variety of tools.

[@boxybox100]

ryobi ahahahahahahahaha the Temu/Wish of cordless drill brands

[@BrittCHelmsSr]

@@boxybox100 - You do you, I'll do me. Ryobi has worked well for me.

[@timpeterson2278]

As a DIY guy and weekend woodworker, I have also purchased a variety of things-- mostly based on what I could afford. My Ryobi cordless tools have never failed me, and I love my CORDED Skil circular saw and router!

[@dster230]

I’ve worn a few hats by now. As a carpenter, I loved makita and their lineup. Their construction tools just last so long! However as a mechanic you can’t beat Milwaukee, especially with their m12 lineup.

[@jonathanconway7256]

A brand has you until they lose you. DeWalt had me until they switched to 20v. Milwaukee still has me but some issues caused me to start with Makita's XGT line.

[@markd2322]

I started my GC career with a hand full of hand me down tools and a new harbor freight reciprocating saw which cost me something like 39 dollars in '99. That saw worked hard for a year and a half doing mostly dry rot repair. I had made and saved some money and could replace it with a Makita which was eventually stolen, which has been the fate of all the tools I have had to replace since then.

[@Erik_The_Viking]

I had that PC 690 router until last year when I replaced it with a Bosch. It worked like a champ but it was time to update. My dad has one of those Skilsaws like yours - a great saw. I'm in Makita's tool line for cordless, but I have other brands based on quality, price, weight, etc. Go with what works for you.

[@bellamyconstruction]

Porter Cable door planer in my opinion is the best on the market.

[@gazelam]

I’ve seen your earlier episode on the topic. About 2 weeks ago my 32 year old Porter Cable saw finally bit the dust. I paid a pretty penny for it in 1992 and it served me well for those long years on a couple dozen robust DIY projects, including a barn and a well house. I have a battery powered DeWalt that I use occasionally, but I like a corded saw. I took your advice and bought a Skilsaw. I have used it on one project so far and really love it. If I can get 32 years out of it, I will see 100 years old and will be completely satisfied. I mostly use DeWalt battery tools: saws, drills, impact drivers, impact wrenches, etc. In the 90s I wore out a Makita battery operated drill and I do have a corded Makita hammer drill. I’ve also got some battery operated tools from Ryobi, Milwaukee, and Hitachi. It’s all in what works for you in your situation. Thanks for your good work and all you do.

[@prototype3a]

When Stanley Black & Decker took over Porter Cable, they IMMEDIATELY made all the tools cheaper built across the line. Even on the LEGENDARY PC 7518, they swapped the bearings for much cheaper ones, ruining the tool.

[@1northsparrow246]

Porter-Cable was the greatest name in American power tools. I wish Stanley - B&D would put it out of its misery.

[@niradz]

I buy based on which tool has the features that make the quality of life on the job a bit easier. Started w/ Dewalt, my all time favorite impact driver from them, then recently switched over to Milwaukee's cordless b/c of the oscillating tool, grinder, and stubby impact/mid torque. Very thankful for the tools I have as they have kept my family mobile through fixing the car, built our kitchen and renovated our bathrooms DIY, saving thousands upon thousands of dollars.

[@interman7715]

Makita # 5806b 7 1/4" blade right saw is my favourite saw ,framed more houses than I can remember.

[@laynedouglas5105]

Decades ago, I was a Craftsman fan, and they were my only brand. That ended more than 30 years ago when their quality went down the toilet. I now own whatever brand seems like the best. I own one of the old Porter Cable routers you love, and I love it as well. I also own DeWalt, Makita, Hitachi(Metabo), Milwaukee, Festool, Jet, and Delta, and a very few off-brand tools. Just depends on the tool. One exception is my battery-powered tools. I started with Makita, then quickly switched to DeWalt, and am now heavily invested in the Dewalt battery platform. I drives me crazy that batteries are not interchangeable, but it clearly works for the manufacturers. If I had to start over with cordless tools, I would go with Milwaukee, mainly because of the much broader range of cordless tools they have available - more than anyone else.

[@44godson]

Indeed. For starting my company, it's just me. I bought some low cost tools but I will buy more of American Made tools to get the job done.

[@richiesavino9653]

I’ve been in the sign business for about 11 years, my old mentor used dewalt so I did also and have used dewalt since. They have never let me down always got the job done I don’t have a reason to switch. Some tools like tape measures I’ve tried a bunch and eventually found one I like the blue irwins sold at Lowe’s. But bottom line use the tool that does the work 👍

[@jakes.5591]

Great video I'm a die hard Milwaukee guy but I use to use Makita and loved the tools but the battery cycle count was the reason I switched and because of a few key cordless tools the Milwaukee offered that Makita did not. That said I have used almost all of the major brands professionally and here is my ranking. Best to worse considering quality, tool options, Milwaukee DeWalt Makita Hilti Metabo Ridgid Bosch Porter cable Craftsman Ryobi/Hart Honorable mention Harbor freights more expensive line I've heard good things about but have no experience with. Probably between Ridgid and Bosch but 🤷

[@d1rty129]

As a framer, yeah I’m brand loyal. Cordless I prefer the Makita 18 and 40v. 🤙🏽🤙🏽 Leather bags (Mcrose) -Dalluge Classic 26oz -Hitachi NR83A -Skilsaw mag77 -Emglo compressor

[@jpjp3873]

We used Makita at the HVAC company I worked for. They were awesome. Now I’m retired and Ryobi is just fine for the average homeowner at a very economical price point.

[@321mogul]

But I hope you know it's different than I have been 10 years ago they're respectable

[@TomMeeley]

The best tool is the one in you hand. They all can do the job. It comes down to what you're willing to pay and if the platform can give you most of what you need. Comfort is a big factor too. I watch all these videos on which drive can do it faster. Ok but in reality that is small potato's. Price is what you pay and value is what you get. All brands have lemon's and true with most products you buy these days. What's important is how the brand supports the product and the consumers. I personally have been working with Skil tools, and their performance has been strong, but I am sure thats the case with most brands.

[@disqusrubbish5467]

Yes to the Skill worm drive. Nowadays btw, Hitachi is Metabo in the US and Hikoki most other places. I don't know why. Anyone of a certain age remembers when Porter-Cable were pro tools and DeWalt was a hobby brand.

[@calvissuperman]

Biggest reason I keep with Makita is their focus on battery life/longevity, and tool efficiency. Milwaukee seems to gear towards raw power, which can easily be seen as the better measurement, but not for me. I have multiple Milwaukee tools and tons of their packout containers, and I would not go back on my choices with them. I just wish they would respect my dollar a bit better by protecting my batteries like Makita does. I have had absolutely no troubles EVER with a makita battery. Dropped from roofs 30 ft in the air, labels torn off, buttons smashed to pieces. Still plugs in, still stays attached, still holds a charge and gets the job done. Milwaukee on the other hand, seems like I did nothing to them and already have a 12v and 18v batter that are permanently damaged. Tried buying new cells online and replacing them only to find it's a bit trickier than you would think. I love battle red, and the selection of specific tools they carry (example the NM cable stapler) but they just don't seem to stand up to abuse compared to my makita. Even my co-worker has had to send in his milwaukee saw and drill to be refurbished only 3yrs into using it, as they locked up or overheated before being able to do a simple job. Makes me wish makita was more mechanical trades focused, and not concrete trades focused. Would love staplers, pipe cutters, and press tools from makita!

[@svantenordstrom]

When I need a new tool I start with making a short list of what I want it to be capable of so I get the specs lined up with my needs for now and the foreseeable future. Then I check reviews on youtube. When I’m down to the two best options I’ll go to the store and feel them out for balance and ergonomics. I don’t give a F about brand unless it’s for the battery platform giving me a clear upside or if there’s interchangeable or compatible accessories. I have DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, Ingersol Rand, Stanley, Kärcher, Ryobi, B&D, and several cheep off brand tools that does the job. I’ve got with and without cord, air tools, hand tools. I just care about if it’s the best tool for the job and that it’s durable.

[@TpetPlayr]

I'm a dewalt man. I bought my first drill/driver combo set about 10 years ago (Still going strong) and from then on, looked for any excuse to shell out some green to get some yellow. However, in the last few years, I've been slowly acquiring some red tools, (Milwaulkee) because doggone it, they make good stuff! Along with a vast variety of trade specific tools, that dewalt doesn't make. I also like their cordless nailers a lot better than dewalt. I also have one makita track saw, because it was a screaming deal. It works fine. seems a little "cheaper" in the hand, but does the job, and I take care of my tools, and so they last.

[@Michael-t3l7b]

Moved from Ryobi to DeWalt to Milwaukee to Makita.. each time a step up. Skilsaw for the win, but I run 7 1/4 blades on the 6 1/2 one.

[@CerebralAilment]

Having the right tools matters most =)

[@dirtgrainsteel]

I bought a worm drive skill saw because of your videos and absolutely love it!!!

[@tomalealso]

I still have my Skill worm drive that I have had for 35 years, it was my daily driver too for a lot of years until I moved away from framing houses. my Milwaukee Sawall like wise I have had for about the same time, it is just about unbreakable. years ago my first real cordless drill was a Portacable I used that everyday all day for a long time too. I went looking for a new one but was very disappointed with the new models like the one you showed. I ended up with a Ryobi because they were cheap and I liked the platform. There was so many tools that all used the same battery. with a new job I needed a better system, I needed a small platform that was just as powerful. enter Dewalt. I still have that the Ryobi but my go to is the Dewalt, I have looked at other brands but always seem to come back to what I have. I no longer use my tools all day everyday so my needs have changed, These days I do more woodworking than I do building. Still if I have to build something my Skill is always ready to come out and play.

[@chriswilson9230]

I have for the most part been loyal to Kobalt. My wife has bought a couple of smalls of Snap-On’s and Matco (see worked in a mechanic shop at the time). My Fire Marshal office is all Milwaukee; they’re a great midway line. We have beat them on fire scene and they keep on going. And now she bought me a bunch of no name tools from across the pacific (we’ll see how long they last). As my Kobalts start to wear out, I’ll but Milwaukee.

[@ed6837]

I have some Milwaukee and some Ryobi. Ryobi makes sense because it's cheap and most important to me they use the same battery platform they have used for years. Better quality tools (I love the Milwaukee tools I have) change the battery plat for and then you're stuck. You need new batteries you can't get and the cost of the new batteries is raised so high you have to buy new tools to get a deal. In short, they change battery platforms to sell the newest latest and greatest tools. That being said I am a retire professional 46 years as a licensed electrician and pipefitter. Ryobi is a good value for the money and plenty robust for homeowners. If a tool fails in many cases you can but a new one bare tool with no battery or charger. I have a Milwaukee 1977 3/8" hole shooter corded drill. Don't use it much now with the cordless but it was a wrist breaker. Only had to replace the cord nothing else. There corded Sawzall's are also pretty tough

[@truthreigns7]

I use the Dewalt drills, grinder, sander and skill or craftsman circular saws.

[@trebarbee5318]

Always get the "best" corded tool available for the job at hand. Battery powered stuff (as a builder) is stick with one of the bigger brands. My first set i bought for myself for work was the brushless portercable impact/drill 20v. Beat the hell out of them for a while. Then discovered the other cordless pc tools were the homeowner grade black & decker molded with grey plastic. One tiny tab of plastic was all that kept bd tools from accepting pc batteries... Most other guys had dewalt 20v stuff so i went that route for the sheer variety (and general quality) of the stuff alone, as well as local stores keeping it in stock. In the last several years I've gotten to use Milwaukee 18v stuff a bunch. To me their tools are "that much" better than dewalt stuff. So far ive only preferred the DeWalt jigsaw to Milwaukee. But I'm invested in the DeWalt 20v system enough that its not worth it to change to "a little bit better" brand of battery tool that is also more difficult to come across in stores i frequent. I do like Bosch cordless stuff as well and have some. But again no one on the jobsites seem to have them and many of the tools aren't readily available where i shop locally.

[@livingunderarockunderarock9963]

I’m an electrician that uses Dewalt mostly and some Milwaukee tools. They’re both great, but Milwaukee is more hip to what certain tradesmen need for plumbing or electrical. I’m $2k deep in batteries. So I’m not planning on changing brands unless my work van gets broken into.

[@Mizzelphug]

I have a blend of tools with makitas being the most predominant, and I still prefer corded to cordless. I got a cheap 18v cordless ryobi impact driver over a decade ago and it became my favorite. Dropped it thousands of times, used as a hammer and just abused it every way possible. I let the smoke out of it finally a few days ago so im thinking ill try Milwaukee next. I was gifted a couple 12v makita drills a few years ago and they were pure junk. I dont think they would even suffice for casual home use. Voltage and amperage on the battery platform makes a world of difference.

[@scottpelletier1370]

As a weekend warrior, I've been happy with Ryobi- impact driver, drill, finish nailer all decently priced.

[@kerryyeroyan8212]

I’m out of the trades now, however you’re spot on! Older Porter cable were fantastic and I still cherish them. Cordless, I’m still running 18v Makita impact drivers and drill’s that are from 2004, batteries are now a bit weak but I’m still using them and are performing flawlessly. Mag77 or the older heavier version “the perfect saws” and built like an American tool should be! Not a fan of Bosch however! Here in Montana it seems as though the cold is hard on their plastics. Ohh and go “BLUE”

[@jonnybegood4848]

I'm still using my Porter Cable saber saw that looks a lot like the one of yours I got a gimps of in this presentation. I bought it back in the 70's and was so impressed with its grunt. I've got the original grey steel carrying case that is quite scuffed and spotted with occasional drops of a foam glue or insulation from some job. It has one fault that has irritated me to no end. It has a set screw that presses against the blade but too often does not hold and throws out blade as well as the surrounding sleeve. That motor acts no differently than when new as near as I can tell. My dad, a carpenter and occasional jr. high shop instructor had a really dated, all metal Skill 6 1/2" worm drive. When I went self-employed I went with a late model of this same saw. I tried the Milwaukee 7 1/4" some time afterward and found it so heavy out front. Eventually I settled on a Skill Magnesium 7 1/4" and that was a sweet spot.

[@fastcars3331]

25 years self employed bought every brand run 20v DeWalt since they came out.never use a cord or generation again. I work sometimes 60 feet up.love all tools and brands!

[@ryanleeoakes2015]

That porter cable router you pulled out is all we have in my shop. They’re incredibly well built and very reliable. If they need fixed we have a guy in Indianapolis that always comes through for us.

[@rosslangille3956]

Had my Mikita worm drive for 40+ years. Finally gave up the ghost.

[@gregwagner3208]

Back in the day I started with Dewalt because it was the best I could afford at the time. It's never really let me down so just stick with it. But if there's a better tool I need and it is within my budget I will buy the best I can afford.

[@cariboomike99]

We’ve got very similar tastes Scott, I make my living with a couple old f350’s, Makita tools and a kubota skid steer. It’s all personal preference and what your comfortable with. Keep up the good work!

[@bennunyour4121]

Like you I used to be very loyal to a certain brand. But now so many tools are so good I just look for the best deal with the best warranty.

[@garrettf4435]

Good old wisdom. Thank you for being you and sharing your thoughts with us.