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Confounded by cordless power tools? How to pick a winner

When you use tools every day, you know the benefits of going cordless. But when it comes to finding the best, most powerful and technologically advanced cordless tools for the job, do you know what to look for?

With so many options out there, choosing the right power tool for you can be overwhelming. “A cordless tool isn’t all about the battery, although it is a critical factor. Safety, ergonomics and durability as well as battery charger technology and versatility are all key,” says Terry Tuerk, product manager at Metabo USA — a leading manufacturer of professional-grade portable electric power tools.

Tuerk offers some top tips to help you find the best cordless tools:

* Pay attention to the latest technology. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter, deliver more power and last longer than older battery technology.

* When you’re looking for the highest quality tools, check out your local tool distributors. You wouldn’t go to the grocery store’s freezer section for fresh vegetables, you would go to the local farmer’s market. The same principle applies to tools. Shop where the experts shop, not at big-box retail stores.

* Handle the tools before purchasing them. Look for agile tools in compact sizes that fit better into tight spaces. A smaller size also reduces operator fatigue and achieves a better balance.

* The charger, and how quickly it works, are as important as the tool itself. Metabo cordless tools have batteries that fully recharge in just 30 minutes. Air-cooled charging technology cools the battery during charging to shorten the process by nearly 30 percent. Cell protection technology extends overall battery life and makes the battery last significantly longer between charges.

* Shop around for special features that best fit your needs. For example, some cordless drills have a removable chuck, exposing a recessed hex spindle that allows you to drive screws in tighter spaces. Look for tools that have a built-in LED light for better visibility in low-light areas.

“Bottom line, find the tool that performs how you need it to,” says Tuerk. “The power behind lithium-ion batteries combined with advanced ergonomics makes the newer 18-volt tools rugged enough for tough applications, while providing user comfort and ease of use.”

Keep the big picture in mind and calculate the return on your investment. When you purchase high-quality, professional-grade tools they may cost a bit more up front, but they last longer, perform better and are more powerful than typical consumer cordless tools. In most cases, the tools are also covered by long-term warranties.

For more information on choosing the best, professional-grade cordless tools, visit www.cordless-tools.com.