Drills and screwdrivers

The choice depends on your professional priorities and your existing ecosystem.

Dewalt excels if you're looking for:

• Maximum versatility with FlexVolt 20V/60V system
• Raw power for heavy-duty applications (torque up to 95 Nm)
• Compatibility with vast range of cordless tools (200+ products)
• Robust warranty and dense after-sales service network in Canada

Makita stands out with:

• Superior ergonomics and reduced weight (15-20% lighter at equal power)
• XPT protection against dust and moisture (ideal for Quebec job sites)
• Exceptional runtime thanks to optimized energy management
• Perfect balance for prolonged precision work

Both brands offer comparable professional quality. If you already own 20V batteries from one brand, stay within that ecosystem to maximize your investment.

For complete professional equipment, plan 600-1200$ depending on configuration.

Starter kit (600-800$):

• 20V cordless drill with 2x 2.0Ah batteries
• Standard charger
• Carrying case
• Basic bits (20 pieces)

Intermediate configuration (900-1200$):

• 20V Brushless drill-driver
• 20V impact driver
• 2 high-capacity 5.0Ah batteries
• Fast charger
• Modular case
• Professional bit kit (50+ pieces)

Optimal configuration (1500-2000$):

• Premium drill with 95+ Nm torque
• 200+ Nm impact driver
• 4x 5.0-6.0Ah batteries
• Dual-port fast charger
• Stackable case system
• Complete accessories

The investment pays for itself in 6-12 months thanks to increased productivity and reliability reducing downtime. Prioritize quality over quantity: a professional drill lasts 5-10 years versus 1-2 years for consumer models.

No, each tool responds to specific applications and they are complementary rather than interchangeable.

Why the impact driver is NOT optimal for drilling metal:

• The 1/4" hex chuck only accepts hex shank bits, limiting drill bit choices
• Axial impacts create excessive vibrations that reduce drilling precision
• Rotation speed too high (2500+ RPM) generates excessive heat and prematurely wears drill bits
• Absence of keyless chuck prevents firm holding of standard drill bits

The cordless drill remains essential for:

• Precise drilling in steel, stainless steel, aluminum (speed control 0-450 RPM)
• Using standard twist drill bits diameter 1-13mm
• Applications requiring progressive and controlled torque
• Manual tapping with special attachment

Optimal solution: Combine both tools in your arsenal. Use the drill for all drilling, reserve the impact driver for high-speed driving and fastening in hard materials. Combo sets often offer 20-30% savings versus separate purchases.

Focus on durability, sustained power and environmental resistance for demanding Quebec context.

Critical specifications:

Motor:

• Brushless mandatory (efficiency +50%, lifespan 5x superior)
• Minimum nominal power 500W equivalent
• Electronic thermal protection against overload

Torque and speed:

• Minimum torque 60 Nm for drill, 150 Nm for driver
• Dual mechanical speed (0-450 / 0-1800 RPM)
• Electronic clutch 15+ positions

Construction:

• All-metal transmission housing (aluminum or magnesium)
• Sealing gaskets protecting against dust IP54 minimum
• Bi-material handle absorbing vibrations
• Reinforced metal belt hook

Batteries and power:

• 20V Lithium-Ion system minimum
• 4.0Ah+ capacity for full-day autonomy
• Visible LED charge indicator
• Multi-tool platform compatibility

Warranty:

• Minimum 3 years professional tools
• 1 year batteries

These specifications guarantee consistent performance even in daily use 6-8h with variable temperatures (-20°C to +40°C) typical of Canadian workshops.

Rigorous maintenance extends lifespan by 50-100% and maintains optimal performance.

Daily maintenance:

• Blow dust from vents with compressed air
• Wipe external housing with dry cloth
• Check chuck tightness
• Visually inspect cables and battery contacts

Monthly maintenance:

• Clean battery contacts with isopropyl alcohol
• Check motor brush wear (non-Brushless models)
• Test clutch operation on all positions
• Lightly lubricate chuck with lithium grease

Quarterly maintenance:

• Disassemble and clean chuck completely
• Inspect bearings for excessive play
• Check all buttons and switches
• Test torque calibration with dynamometer

Battery storage:

• Store at 40-60% charge for maximum longevity
• Store between 10-25°C (avoid freezing and extreme heat)
• Complete charge-discharge cycle every 3 months if unused

Signs requiring professional intervention:

• Notable power loss
• Abnormal noises or excessive vibrations
• Frequent overheating
• Intermittent electronic problems

Annual service at authorized center costs 75-150$ and prevents costly breakdowns. Several Canadian workshops negotiate maintenance contracts with local distributors.

The three leading brands offer robust warranties adapted to Canadian professional use.

Dewalt:

• 3-year limited warranty power tools
• 1-year warranty batteries and chargers
• 90-day satisfaction guarantee (return no questions asked)
• After-sales service via network of 150+ authorized centers Canada
• Advanced exchange program to minimize downtime

Makita:

• 3-year warranty professional tools
• 1-year Lithium-Ion batteries
• Possible extension to 4 years via online registration
• Dense after-sales service network Quebec
• Express repair program 48-72h

Milwaukee:

• 5-year limited warranty M18 Fuel tools
• 3-year Redlithium batteries
• 2-year warranty chargers
• One-Key platform allows digital warranty traceability and management
• Track & Trace program for lost/stolen tools

Common exclusions all brands:

• Normal wear (brushes, bearings)
• Damage caused by improper use
• Obvious lack of maintenance
• Unauthorized modifications

Always keep purchase receipts and register tools online for accelerated warranty processing. Canadian warranties are honored by local distributors, avoiding costly shipments to United States.