Milwaukee
Recommended 164× on r/BuyItForLife
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M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE Battery Pack
18V 16in. Cordless Battery Powered String Trimmer (Tool-Only)
The MILWAUKEE M18 Brushless String Trimmer delivers the power to clear thick brush and a lightweight design. The brushless motor provides optimal performance for grass trimming app...
Brushless String Trimmer Kit
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless String Trimmer delivers the power to clear thick brush and a lightweight design. The brushless motor provides optimal performance for grass trimming app...
16" String Trimmer 3046-20
Designed to meet the needs of landscape maintenance professionals, our M18 FUEL string trimmer with QUIK-LOK provides you with more power than 31 cc gas trimmers and reaches full t...
18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless String Trimmer
17" Dual Battery String Trimmer
Our M18 Fuel 17 in dual battery string trimmer meets the performance, durability, and ergonomic needs of landscape maintenance professionals. Our string trimmer provides the highes...
18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Jobsite Vacuum 0940-20
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Vacuum delivers powerful performance and versatility for small-area and spot clean-up on the jobsite. Equipped with a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor and...
M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum
M18 Fuel 1 gal 18 V Cordless HEPA Backpack Vacuum Cleaner (0885-20) by Milwaukee. Whether taking on spot, area, or final cleanups, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum bri...
Handheld Vacuum 0892-20
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless Handheld Vacuum is a quick and effective cleanup solution for a variety of jobsite conditions. With its ergonomic form factor and comfortable handle des...

M18 Fuel 18V Cordless Compact Vacuum 0940-80
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Vacuum provides powerful performance and ultimate versatility to excel in small-area and spot clean-up applications on the jobsite. The two-stage deb...
M18 Fuel Compact Vacuum M18FCVL-0
The M18 FUEL Compact Vacuum provides users with powerful performance and wide-ranging versatility to excel in small-area and spot clean-up applications on the jobsite. With a POWER...
String Trimmer QUIK-LOK 3016-20ST
Designed to meet the needs of landscape maintenance professionals, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel String Trimmer w/ quik-lok provides you with more power than 31cc gas trimmers and reaches...
Why r/BuyItForLife recommends Milwaukee
164 mentions from real owners
- #1Dec 30, 2025
What BIFL mistakes have you made?
I always redirect people to the gloves section at home depot. Can't beat a $20 pair of Milwaukee leather gloves. Long lasting, bio degradable and waterproof enough for rain and snow.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #2Dec 22, 2025
Knipex-which tool as a gift?
I do love knipex as side cutters, but I recently discovered the Milwaukee wire strippers ..... They are the best wire strippers I've ever used. I keep a pair in my jeep and also on my workbench. Highly recommend.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #3Dec 7, 2025
What brands/products do you AVOID because of their poor longevity?
SOG Black and Decker Some Gerber Chicago Cutlery (so sad…used to be amazing) Expensive non-stick pans. We have a SS all clad set we’ve had for years, it’s amazing. We buy a cheapo Teflon pan every 6mo or so for eggs over easy Most craftsman tools Harbor Freight Icon ratchets…they don’t sound good…not satisfying to wrench with…my ASMR is showing I don’t like dewalt ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Love Ridgid and Milwaukee Echo gas tools…own a lot of Stihl…gas and battery Cheap Christmas lights Inferior foods when there is a better alternative available…I’m not a trash disposal…garbage in, garbage out Off brand paper towels and asswipe Cheap fabric softener Cheap tires I’m a buy once, cry once guy
View on Redditopen_in_new - #4Dec 7, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
Milwaukee handheld battery powered vacuum. We'd gone through a couple of dust buster type vacuums and none lasted. Finally I said, forget this, I'm in the Milwaukee ecosystem and they have a handheld. My wife was not amused at first because it's a but utilitarian, but now she loves it.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #5Dec 6, 2025
What winter gear do you recommend?
I grew up in Cleveland by the lake and boy the cold ain’t anything to mess with. I’m always in lined jeans, my insulated Wolverine boots, I’m a skinny dude and I wear a Milwaukee heated hoodie, and the Milwaukee heated jacket ( wish it had a hood and was longer though ) Longer jackets are good, I hate nothing more than an arctic blast up my back
View on Redditopen_in_new - #6Dec 6, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
M12 Milwaukee anything. I am up to 8-10 tools. My original screwdriver got lost after 5 or so years of use. So, I had to buy another. About 3 years later, the original showed up in my field having been rained on the entire time. The chuck was rusty, but the thing still had a charge and still ran like new with the first pull of the button.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #7Dec 5, 2025
~17 Year Old Cordless Craftsman Drill/Work Light kit
Everyone is correct about pitching your old tools. For new tools, find whatever is on sale, or pick whatever colour you like the most. Dewalt, Milwaukee, bosch, makita are all good brands. If you’re just a homeowner looking to DIY stuff, buy ryobi. It’s the same company as Milwaukee. Tons of reliable tools to pick from at a good price point, and decades worth of used tools available on marketplace with backwards compatibility. They just aren’t as flashy or compact as the fancy contractor tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #8Dec 4, 2025
~17 Year Old Cordless Craftsman Drill/Work Light kit
Those batteries are really old tech and have all kinds of issues with holding charge, memory, and very decreased capacity and amp output compared to lithium. Plus the motors aren't nearly as strong as a modern drill. $100 gets you a basic Dewalt or Milkwaukee setup if you shop around that will outperform that old crapsman. They were never known for power tools. It was the made in USA hand tools that were gems with a lifetime warranty. Now of course they're all Apex junk.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #9Dec 3, 2025
Looking for a solid portable vacuum cleaner
another Milwaukee fan. much better then Dyson.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #10Dec 3, 2025
Looking for a solid portable vacuum cleaner
I also vote Milwaukee cordless. Easy to carry, good suction, a full charge battery will probably last a month if you're just doing little detail and crumb cleanup. And it has a nice stackable shape.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #11Dec 3, 2025
Looking for a solid portable vacuum cleaner
The Milwaukee stuff is legit, can confirm. Just grabbed one last month and it's been a beast for car cleanup duty - way better suction than I expected for something cordless
View on Redditopen_in_new - #12Dec 3, 2025
What are the current Buy It For Life Companies For Blue Collar People?
yeah i've been using workwearcomfort for some good work clothes. their hoodies are comfy and durable, perfect for what we do. also, don't forget about brands like Milwaukee for tools and PPE stuff!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #13Dec 1, 2025
My grandmas drill that she gave me to use to hang curtains
My DeWalt drill died just after the 1-year warranty expired. A ton of other reviewers had the same thing happen. So I’ve sworn them off and bought an expensive brushless Milwaukee drill that I can just tell is leagues above in craftsmanship and durability.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #14Dec 1, 2025
My grandmas drill that she gave me to use to hang curtains
I have an old craftsman drill that I received from my Dad. Every time I look at it I’m transported back to being a kid watching him do house work. I have a Milwaukee M18 that does the work now. It’s a better drill in every possible way.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #15Dec 1, 2025
best winter coats for a very anemic person that will be outside for a while?
you may want to look at carhartt. They have some very heavyweight items. The do have womens line as well. They have full coveralls and bibs as well. I could probably just have my underwear underneath and be in snow with them. Milwaukee has heated clothing. I know these are not the most feminine choices but you can stay warm.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #16Nov 3, 2025
What’s a purchase that’s not fun, not flashy but now you swear by it?
Milwaukee 48-22-1505 Fastback 6 in 1 utility knife. It's just a knife. But it takes cheap as chips blades, it holds one spare blade in the handle, oh and it has a screwdriver in the handle as well. Not flashy (it's a red knife) but it's the most used tool that I keep with me daily. I balked at the price at first. 24 bucks for a box cutter is wild considering they sell the non-screwdriver one for 9 bucks. But dang. Money well spent.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #17Oct 7, 2025
I analyzed 80+ Reddit threads to find the best water bottles
Milwaukee Packout bottles. Bloody indestructible and replacement parts widely available if needed.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #18Oct 4, 2025
Which handheld cordless vacuum cleaner?
I actually bought a Dyson Humdinger for this same purpose and honestly the battery life has been a letdown - only about 20 minutes on max, which isn’t enough when I’m trying to get pollen off outdoor cushions. I’m already looking to buy again and have been going through this [giant spreadsheet of vacuums](https://www.reddit.com/user/lacking_foyer48/comments/1lj76h3/vacuum_cleaners_compared_comprehensive_datasheet/) that another redditor put together to compare options. At this point I think I need something with a swappable battery. Since I already have a few Milwaukee tools, I’m planning to go that route and just keep the Humdinger for smaller messes.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #19Oct 1, 2025
Portable car tire inflator that's ideally cordless and has a dial/indicator to show tire pressure?
If you want a proper cordless, buy a Milwaukee M18 inflator with an 8ah battery. But that’s just silly - it’s about $300 for the pump and battery, and you really shouldn’t leave a lithium battery unused for months - they need to be cycled. I’d just buy a cheap 12v corded pump that plugs into the power outlet. These cost like $30 and usually work for years if only used intermittently - just give them a few minutes to cool down if doing multiple tires. Heat/extended run time kills these pumps
View on Redditopen_in_new - #20Oct 1, 2025
Portable car tire inflator that's ideally cordless and has a dial/indicator to show tire pressure?
I think any of the major tool brands - Ryobi, Milwaukee, Dewalt, Mikita, etc. - make battery-powered inflators with batteries that can be replaced. Whatever system you've already bought into for other tools, get that one. Personally, I think Milwaukee has very good battery performance on the M18 range.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #21Oct 1, 2025
Portable car tire inflator that's ideally cordless and has a dial/indicator to show tire pressure?
Do you already have a cordless power tool family you're a part of, i.e. Milwaukee 18v Fuel etc? If so, you're half way there, you can just buy the skin. If not, get the (lime green coloured) Ryobi 18V battery + inflator
View on Redditopen_in_new - #22Oct 1, 2025
Portable car tire inflator that's ideally cordless and has a dial/indicator to show tire pressure?
The Milwaukee Fuel one is wonderful.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #23Sep 6, 2025
Please recommend a screwdriver set before I lose it on these curtain rods.
Milwaukee ratcheting screwdrivers.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #24Sep 5, 2025
Please recommend a screwdriver set before I lose it on these curtain rods.
Awesome that you’re trying! What’s probably happening is you’re camming out. The screw driver is at an angle and you’re not engaging properly. Think about what the screwdriver is doing. It needs to be in all the way, and not at an angle. Getting a screw started is part of the trick as well. You can’t be at an angle. I like wera but the Milwaukee set will do you very well.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #25Sep 4, 2025
Brands That Used to Be BIFL — But Aren't Anymore?
I have a lot of Craftsman hand tools that I use daily for work. I really don't have any issues with them at all. As far as power tools go, I use DeWalt at work (company supplied) and for home use I have Craftsman, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi for battery stuff. Usually if I need a new tool for the house I'll look at Craftsman first as they are usually cheaper and consumer grade is usually fine for what I need around the house. Milwaukee and DeWalt for heavy duty stuff.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #26Sep 4, 2025
Best Buy it for Life Gift?
If he likes fixing cars, maybe a nice toolset if you know which tools he may need to replace or doesn’t have or wished he had. There are several brands that would most likely be BIFL. Craftsman, Dewalt, Husky, Milwaukee depending on your budget. Or maybe a tool storage cabinet.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #27Sep 2, 2025
Where are the shirts that last this long???
Most commercially made shirts kinda suck. But.... Work brands are usually quite durable (Carhartt, Dewalt, Milwaukee). But if you don't want to spend that much, Kirkland bagged shirts are pretty amazing for the price.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #28Sep 2, 2025
Warmest coat made of natural material that doesnt include down feathers?
I have a flannel-lined wool car coat from Pendleton. I don't normally like the feel of flannel, but every time I wear this coat I'm in long sleeves, so it works great for me. My wife bought it for me around 1990. Back then, they still allowed smoking in bars and some restaurants, so it has been to the dry cleaners a few times over the years, but save that, has required zero maintenance. As others have mentioned, a Navy-style pea coat is great, too. You mention that you have a difficult time regulating your body temperature. Have you tried a heated vest or base layer? Milwaukee makes decent ones that don't break the bank. My brother-in-law does search and rescue in the mountains in Utah and swears by them.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #29Aug 7, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
I'm normally a milwuakee guy but makita makes good saws. Don't get too hung up on the batteries though, I like the milwuakee m12 form factor the 1/4 in driver and 1/2 inch percussion drill bang hard with the 2.5ah high discharge battery. Even driving into concrete slabs I use the 1/4". For drilling pilot I get out the M18 SDS. The milwuakee m12 mini circular saw I'm still trying to get my hands on always seems to be out of stock.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #30Aug 7, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
You can buy Home Depot and Ace gift cards on Amazon. Assuming you can buy a gift card with a gift card, I would go that route. Milwaukee Home Depot hacks provide a lot of value, and $2000 will go a long way in Ryobi’s line up.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #31Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
A measuring tape, stud finder, ladder, eye protection (some that seal like goggles, and some that don't), ear protection, dearskin gloves, and a respirator with extra filters should be your first stop. It's easy to forget safety gear until you need it, and these items are only to be bought by well known brands. A cheap measuring tape is a bad idea as they're not all accurate. A quality multi-tool (Leatherman Free P4 is my top choice) can make a lot of repairs possible before you get other tools and is great to have around. Electric tools: pick one reputable brand (DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Ryobi, etc.) and buy a drill, a sawzall, and an impact driver from the same product line. This keeps the batteries interchangeable, and beware of fake batteries. You'll need drill bits, impact compatible sockets, and various saw blades as well. Will you have a yard to take care of? If so, a Corona hand saw, hori hori, pruners, loppers, a mower, weed-eater, and blower could all be considered. For hand tools, buy cheap first, then replace with quality later if it ever does break. You'll want drivers (Philips, flat, and hex at minimum), a hammer, a level, various screws and nails (consider getting a wall hanging hardware set). A socket set is recommended as well. Get painters tape, duct/gorilla tape, and packing tape, super glue (for static repairs), shoe glue (for repairs requiring flex), and clamps of various sizes. Rope is useful as well.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #32Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
Nice problem to have. If you're buying from Amazon, I'd start with a solid cordless drill/driver combo Milwaukee M18 or DeWalt XR kits are both built to last and usually bundled well. Also worth grabbing a Japanese pull saw, clamps, and maybe a decent router or track saw if you're planning furniture work. Prices can be better local, but Amazon's great for filling gaps and grabbing mid-tier stuff that still holds up. Just avoid the ultra-cheap no-name brands tempting, but not worth it long term.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #33Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
Watch project farm as well as the torque test channel on YouTube they do extensive tests on tools from Amazon specials like the “seesii” to Milwaukee. Pretty insightful as I’ve been building my tools up as well
View on Redditopen_in_new - #34Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
I’d recommend a cheapo homeowners toolkit (bought mine at Lowe’s) and a simple Milwaukee M12 combo kit with a nice bit / driver set. I’ve got years of facility maintenance experience and I could fix 99% of thing around the house with less than a dozen tools. Don’t spend it all at once!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #35Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
A good place to start educating yourself is the project farm YouTube channel. He does excellent reviews, buying the products instead of receiving free items from manufacturers. Some companies don't extend warranty to tools purchased on Amazon, so shopping locally is the smart move. If you choose that option, use your Amazon card for consumables like blades and bits or non-powered tools like wrenches. Cordless is the way to go with most power tools. Your first decision is which company you want to purchase. DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita are the top brands. Batteries do interchange between brands. Ryobi and Rigid are both manufactured by the company that owns Milwaukee. Ryobi has a bunch of gadgety tools. Rigid isn't as refined as Milwaukee, but has a lifetime warranty, including batteries. They are the only company to have a lifetime warranty. The only way to get this warranty is to purchase tools from Home Depot. Bosch and Metobo are somewhat second tier, not always having the best/latest features. Though some Bosch corded tools are very good. The best jigsaw I have is a Bosch. Their corded miter saw is very nice. Between the big three they all have certain tools that are best in class, which makes it difficult to decide which brand to purchase. Your primary tools will be a drill, a ¼" impact for driving screws and bolts, a circular saw, and a sawzall(reciprocating saw). In addition, you will find a power miter saw useful. An orbital sander is handy. I prefer corded for the sander as batteries either don't last long enough or the batteries that last longer make the tool heavy and awkward. If you purchase a reciprocating saw, invest in carbon toothed blades. They last a long time and power through wood and metal faster than standard blades. They go through metal extremely fast. For a shop vac Rigid is top of the line. While they share the same name as the power tools, the vacuums are made by a different company, Emerson Electric. Continuing with the Rigid name, their plumbing tools are top notch. Again, made by a different company. Their pipe wrenches are excellent. It is handy to have two pipe wrenches, one to hold the stationary pipe and the other to tighten the fitting. If you have pedestal sinks where the plumbing is visible, a smooth jawed pipe wrench won't mar the plumbing fittings. Other top tier brands of tools include Knipex, Fein, Festool(makes the best power miter saw but is very expensive), and Wera.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #36Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
You're getting a lot of general advice, but here's my two-cents on actual tools as a general contractor and avid home-project doer: The tool I grab the most is my cordless drill. I like a 12V Bosch (I've replaced it 3x in the last 20 years), but any quality name brand 12v will work. Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt.... Pick one and plan on sticking with it. Then get a decent 3/8" socket set in sae and metric, along with some channel-locks in 8" and 10", an adjustable wrench, and a 12 or 16oz hammer. A decent folding razor knife and extra blades. A tool pouch and a pencil and a head lamp and a tool box. With these tools you can do 90% of home maintenance projects. Buy more specialized tools as you have projects that need them, but these are the ones I would keep on hand.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #37Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
Cordless tools usually mean joining a company for batteries. For example I am in the Makita franchise because I have multiple tools and batteries and chargers. Other companies may be just as good. I bought my original drill from Makita because thats what the carpenters were using. Thats a good way to pick a tool brand. I've had great service from Milwaukee corded tools, my sawzall is 40 years old. That doesn't mean the new ones are as good, but my corded drill is. Harbor Fright is not always awful for DIYers. My vise is from there, it has weird aspects, but has lasted and was cheap.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #38Aug 6, 2025
$2K Amazon Budget—Help Me Turn Digital Money Into Sawdust
Not sure what exactly you need but I'd secure a few batteries from makita or Milwaukee then buy the tools I need that use those batteries. Amazon also has a lot of offbrand tools that use makita batteries.I bought an off brand sawsall and stick pump that use makita batteries and they work greatnfor occasionally use. Wouldn't rely on them too hard though for the long term, just realized what sub I'm on lol
View on Redditopen_in_new - #39Aug 2, 2025
Cordless Tool System: Bosch, Makita, or something else?
Not the first to say it but if you work on cars at all Milwaukee is the only answer. I only do simple stuff on cars because I like to DIY but now that I understand what works and doesn't on them it's Milwaukee only. I don't think anything is going to serve you wrong here. I like the small form factor of my Makitas (black, no idea what model), but they aren't big old work horses like the Festool I bought my cousin or Milwaukee impacts or anything like that. They're just really small and 18v. It's perfect for me who isn't afraid to dive into projects but isn't like buildings decks. I've had them for years and will probably for many more. The only bad thing I used was some 18v old Dewalt a friend had (it was all plastic, no metal parts like some I've seen). That thing wasn't even as strong as most 12v. That's probably why they have 20v now. While I'm not in Europe when I was doing a little research for my cousin's gift I stumbled across "Metabo" who I think is the manufacturer of green Bosch stuff and many other brands for certain things. You might want to look into them as a way to get more bang for buck in EU.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #40Aug 1, 2025
Best chew-proof, washable, breathable, touchscreen-compatible work gloves?
To start: gloves are consumables so I wouldn’t expect to “buy a set for life”. That said, have you tried cut gloves? I really like Milwaukee’s and they work just fine with touchscreens. Even with the Level 1s, I doubt you could chew through them.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #41Aug 1, 2025
Cordless Tool System: Bosch, Makita, or something else?
Dewalt or Milwaukee. My dad was a master carpenter and a millwright welder. My husband is an electrician. That’s all we have and use. We’ve even been able to sell a bunch of my dad’s old corded Milwaukee stuff as he’s downsizing. One dewalt product I love is of all things their electric weed whacker. We got attachments for a pole chainsaw, a hedge trimmer and a rototiller. But we only got that last year so I have yet to see the BIFL capabilities. But if the 2 you are asking about are the 2 you can get easily I would go with Bosch.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #42Aug 1, 2025
Cordless Tool System: Bosch, Makita, or something else?
Makita or Milwaukee, dewalt is pretty good for more affordable tools but I think the batteries die faster. Bosch is good for heavier corded tools in my experience but I’ve never used cordless
View on Redditopen_in_new - #43Jul 7, 2025
I’ve beat on this thing for 20 years. Toro 190cc 22” recycler with FWD
The Milwaukee M18 is crazy good. Was waiting for a bit of a price drop and it recently went UP $100
View on Redditopen_in_new - #44Jul 7, 2025
I’ve beat on this thing for 20 years. Toro 190cc 22” recycler with FWD
Have a similar one - the self propel kinda got bad and decided to replace it. Got the Milwaukee M18 electric and can’t deny that it’s amazing. Pricey, but it’s the best mower I’ve ever owned.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #45Jul 5, 2025
Need opinions on leaf blowers
I have this one [Milwaukee Fuel 18v](https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/2724-20) it’s pretty great. Also, Milwaukee makes just about any battery powered tool you can think of and most of them use the same battery.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #46Jul 5, 2025
Need opinions on leaf blowers
My ego stuff has held up well. I have had a mower for about 7 years and it’s still doing great. One of my string trimmers is at least that old, still chugging along. The batteries have held up well. The blowers are the best electric blowers in my opinion. I have a backpack blower (around 650 cfm IIRC) and a handheld 880 cfm blower. I had a 765 handheld and sold it. They have all been great but the 880 is on another level. It’s truly amazing and I primarily use it with a shorty / snub tube. I prefer the Milwaukee multi-head but the Ego blowers are definitely superior and their mowers are a better value. The ego multi head is good, I just prefer the Milwaukee. I wish ego made a bed redefiner and reciprocator or rotary scissor attachment like Milwaukee but they don’t. If you just want a blower, or blower and mower, I’d go ego. If you want a multi-head system to match and don’t quite need 880 cfm anyway, Milwaukee is another option to consider and Home Depot runs some good sales.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #47Jul 2, 2025
One device for tires, mattresses… and now basketballs?
OK, I'm not sure how well this suggestion is going to go here. Because expensive. I have the Milwaukee M18 (M18 is the battery size) inflator. It will inflate a flat car tire in 30/40 seconds. Not five minutes. People inflate tractor tires with this thing. It is good to 150 PSI. It MOVES AIR. The problem is that it is a battery powered tool from a tool company. That means you need not only the inflator, you need a battery and a charger as well. Sometimes you can catch a sale where the combination of the three are ~$200. That's the buy point. There are a bunch of inflators on the market. From USB charged units, to plug-in to car power. Nothing touches this unit. Nothing made by anyone.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #48Jul 1, 2025
BIFL request: A thermos that actually keeps tea hot for hours
Project Farm recently tested tumblers again, although the Zoji-whatever ones mentioned in comments here wasn't part. In keeping hot only Stanley and Corkcicle got an A+. Contigo and CamelBak an A Milwaukee an A- Yeti and BruMate B+ Other ratings were subjective, corrosion resistance of Stanley worse than Corkcicle as well as spills. Stanley more leak proof though.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #49Jul 1, 2025
Does anyone else feel like it's impossible to buy quality stuff anymore? Seems like every single thing I buy falls apart absurdly fast. I try to get quality stuff, but reviews are all fake, star ratings are bought... how do you avoid buying junk?
yeah. ive always liked older stuff people always made fun of me for fixing everything saying just buy another. basically stating my mindset and way of living are flawed. so odd. this mindset is why we as a a society are in such a bad place. older stuff or older way of making it are far superior. why does a toaster need a motherboard?@! my boots are pnw made. most stuff is higher priced handmade cottage vendor from my knife to my bedroll etc.. drive an excursion but daily drove a 1983 toyota for over a decade. still hv it need to rebuild again and sell ford. i hate it lol. i resole boots sew up anything i can. if i can weld it or replace part i do that. best thing to say is do research and knowing how stuff works and how to fix helps alot. i have all milwaukee stuff. very reliable. the switch started going out on mini shopvac. took apart pulled part # and googled. came up as microwave door switch. its just an interupter. cost $4 to fix $100 vacuum. i was one of the few guys at dealer or other shops who could weld or rebuild rearends manual trans engine etc but also fix a harness. crazy. youtube can be helpful bit have to weed through all the crap. if you train your mind to analyze everything on its function and use learning how to make or fix it will help you know what is quality and you will see alot of people (esp on social media) are clueless just restating talking points. case in point fixing something based on symptoms and failure not cause of failure and testing components individually and in operation to diagnose. bad motor burned up switch replace just switch fails again shortly or just sewing crotch on pants not gusseting and double stitching. etc...change your mindset and knowledge you will know quality instantly. sorry for long post but if you get it it will answer your question. good luck. also cottage vendors are rhriving and backed up from demand. my boots jk boots repairs and new custom orders are couple months out. the world is waking up and sick of disposable useless junk. and luckily the internet can open up immense markets
View on Redditopen_in_new - #50Jun 8, 2025
What are the best scissors for everyday use?
Milwaukee scissors from Home Depot have a lifetime warranty and have lasted 4 years with no issues. Use it for everything.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #51Jun 4, 2025
What’s one thing you bought once and it’s still going strong years later?
With their warranty, kinda. -PB Swiss, Wright, Knipex, Old SK, Milwaukee guy
View on Redditopen_in_new - #52Jun 4, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
I wouldn't get a flashlight. I would get a few work lights like this: [https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-550-Lumens-LED-REDLITHIUM-USB-Pivoting-Flood-Light-2114-21XX/306261521](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-550-Lumens-LED-REDLITHIUM-USB-Pivoting-Flood-Light-2114-21XX/306261521) or this: [https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-300-Lumens-LED-Magnetic-Flood-Light-2108/306261360](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-300-Lumens-LED-Magnetic-Flood-Light-2108/306261360) And also a headlamp like this: [https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-600-Lumens-LED-REDLITHIUM-Hard-Hat-Headlamp-2163-21/323108248](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-600-Lumens-LED-REDLITHIUM-Hard-Hat-Headlamp-2163-21/323108248) I like Milwaukee lights because they pay attention to the quality of the light, unlike DeWalt, Ryobi, etc. The light is a faintly yellowish neutral white, not the irritating blue-white of the others. The color rendition is better, which can be important if you need to distinguish colored wires, for instance.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #53Jun 3, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
Milwaukee has a nice rechargeable flashlight. Small enough to hold in your mouth, magnet on the end, rechargeable, and the double sided pocket clip makes it able to clip onto your hat for handsfree use. I work on pianos and use mine everyday.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #54Jun 3, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
So checkout Milwaukee’s line of ‘TruView’ flashlights and headlamps. I work on sewing machines, so lots of nooks and crannies. The more yellowish light works far better than the hot white and blueish lights of most LEDs today. I can’t explain it exactly, but the yellowish light of their TruView line just seems to ‘bounce around’ inside the machines more than the white light of EVERYONE else’s LED lights, and is more useful to me. I bought their pen light (which I use most), and their headlamp which I use when I need both hands. I also have their more robust handheld, but I only use it when I need to light up a larger area. I got all three at Ace Hardware. I believe Amazon also sells them. https://imgur.com/a/SX1rbX7
View on Redditopen_in_new - #55Jun 3, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
Milwaukee headlamp is goated
View on Redditopen_in_new - #56Jun 3, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
Do you want a pocketable light? Or size don’t matter? Pocketable: I’d get an Olight with a flood like light. If it don’t matter: Milwaukee 2129-20, 2367-20, 2126-20
View on Redditopen_in_new - #57Jun 3, 2025
What’s the best flashlight for an appliance repair guy
The [Braun 500 lumen rechargeable bar work light](https://www.harborfreight.com/500-lumen-led-rechargeable-magnetic-handheld-foldable-slim-bar-work-light-59536.html) from Harbor Freight is recommended by many that work on cars etc. People often recommend it better than the more expensive Icon bar light because it has the 180 degree swivel whereas icon doesn’t. I also have the [Milwaukee M12 Rover light](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-ROVER-Service-and-Repair-Flood-Light-with-USB-Charging-2367-20/314746266). It is so awesome working on cars and under kitchen sink or wherever with this light - it is one of my favorite tool right next to my trusty headlamp that I use for everything. Lots of people rave about this light. It is magnetic also.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #58Jun 2, 2025
Gift for man who works nightshift outside
In a similar vein, if he is Milwaukee guy, they make heated vests, hoodies, and jackets that use their 12V platform batteries. I’d personally recommend the vest or hoodie as you can put in under a warmer winter coat if needed.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #59Jun 1, 2025
Rant: These „backstory“, „amount of money available“, „what should I buy“ posts are getting on my nerves
I heavily research the highest quality products first (that don’t have a crazy high professional tax.) Then I find a way to buy it cheaper than MSRP. Whether that be eBay, FB Marketplace or local Liquidation places. I own a good chunk of the Milwaukee Fuel line-up and didn’t pay full price for any of them. That would be my advice for most shoppers. Find the right product (or a few options) and then find it at the right price.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #60May 9, 2025
In Florida from Scotland right now, is there anything practical that I can pick up whilst here?
Tools would be a good idea. Power tools with batteries may be an option as long as you’re mindful of shipping the batteries back. Outlet adapters can make it easier to utilize them back home. Estwing and Klein tools are my favorite hand tools. Milwaukee is my go-to for power tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #61May 8, 2025
Best Electric Weed Eater?
I love my Milwaukee string trimmer. My dad and I have the older single battery Fuel models and they work great. His has the attachment point, mine is just a straight shaft
View on Redditopen_in_new - #62May 7, 2025
What’s something you’ve had so long it feels like it’s legally part of your family
I stole my brother's wire strippers he bought when he had a summer job at Orlando Boat Company in the 60s and still have them. Bought some new expensive Milwaukees and they're crap compared to the ancient ones. Gonna will them to my DIY daughter when i'm gone.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #63May 7, 2025
Best Electric Weed Eater?
I would say Milwaukee since you already have the batteries
View on Redditopen_in_new - #64May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Stihl, Milwaukee, Makita
View on Redditopen_in_new - #65May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
I look to AGZA for BIFL electric lawn equipment, they make recommendations for commercial use based on durability in real-world testing. Their recommendations for this would be EGO Power+, Stihl AP, Husqvarna Commercial, Makita, and Greenworks Commercial. Of these, EGO and Makita will be the easiest to get and the most affordable. I can also attest that Milwaukee's lawn equipment is very good. They have one of the best electric mowers out there, and my dad and I both have Milwaukee weedeaters that work great
View on Redditopen_in_new - #66May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Love Project Farm! I have the Ego and it is by far the best one I've used. Easy to load, flawless advance and great power/battery life. [Ego, Milwaukee and DeWalt are his top 3.](https://youtu.be/BrOkIPQ1gJk)
View on Redditopen_in_new - #67May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Love Project Farm! I have the Ego and it is by far the best one I've used. Easy to load, flawless advance and great power/battery life. [Ego, Milwaukee and DeWalt are his top 3.](https://youtu.be/BrOkIPQ1gJk)
View on Redditopen_in_new - #68May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Milwaukee
View on Redditopen_in_new - #69May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Do you already have a battery system from dewalt, ryobi, rigid, milwaukee etc? If you do, that's the trimmer to get - the one with matching, swappable batteries. They all have a few different models. The biggest failure point will be the batteries.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #70May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Milwaukee or Ego makes a solid electric string trimmer. Personally I’ve switched back to gas from killing the motors in them, but they certainly have the power and warranty.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #71May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Yep, got the trimmer, edger, blower, and mower. Been using them for over 10 years now, no problems with any of them. Don't recommend the chainsaw, it broke, but I was mostly done with it when it crapped out. Though I work in construction and my battery tools for work are Milwaukee, if they had the lawn tools then, I probably would have with them since I got about a dozen batteries for those tools, just to simplify everything a little.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #72May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
I'd get either the Milwaukee or ego right now. I already have a ton of Milwaukee tools so I went that route, but usually recommend the ego to friends.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #73May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
We have the M18 quick-lock or whatever they call it with the string trimmer, edger, hedge trimmer, and pole saw. We love it, especially the pole saw. I have a Stihl FS90 gas trimmer that is awesome when I need to put a solid blade on it to clear heavy brush or whatever but way less pleasant to use otherwise. We pretty much only use the Milwaukee stuff now.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #74May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
We had a Black & Decker corded electric string trimmer for years which died last spring. Replaced it with a Milwaukee M18 battery string trimmer and the difference is unreal. The Milwaukee has significantly more power that the old Black & Decker did. If you go Milwaukee I'd recommend going a little more and getting the one with Quik-Lok so you can use different attachments (hedge trimmer, chainsaw, bladed edger) with the body. I didn't and now I want an upgrade which will need to be approved by management (e.g, my wife).
View on Redditopen_in_new - #75May 6, 2025
What’s the best electric weed wacker?? Suggestions needed
Milwaukee Quick Lock
View on Redditopen_in_new - #76May 6, 2025
1970s Milwalkee Shop vac still going strong
You get a good shop back and you simply can’t kill them. Some of em seem to have supernatural lasting ability!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #77May 4, 2025
Lawn Boy Commercial Series DuraForce 2 Stroke.
Yeah, I don't care much for 2 stroke power equipment. I find they are often fussy to start, and they absolutely stink you up and smell terrible in operation. For applications where you need a gas engine, 4 stroke is the way to go. For trimmers, Battery trimmers are very, very good these days, unless you really need to run a trimmer all day long, you are better off with something like a Milwaukee electric trimmer and a couple batteries.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #78May 4, 2025
1970s Milwalkee Shop vac still going strong
I fucking bet! It looks like a tank!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #79May 4, 2025
My dad's drill. 40 years and still going strong!
I was literally just thinking that I bought my 1/2" Milwaukee in 1996. And I have a Hole Hawg that my friend's dad gave me for fixing another one, it's a toss up who's older, me or the Hole Hawg. (Friend's dad was a commercial electrician so you know it was used hard. I had to replace the chuck and fix some wiring near the trigger, that's it.)
View on Redditopen_in_new - #80May 4, 2025
Buy it for life sunglasses?
Milwaukee has tinted safety glasses (Sunglasses). My kids kept breaking all my others but these $18 pair have outlived all others. Very comfy too!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #81May 3, 2025
Big score today, 40+ years later and they are smooth as butter.
I built a building with one of those. My first. My dad’s first build in over 30 years. He had it in his old tool stash. We went through 6 Milwaukee’s but that little thing was bullet proof. Everyone gave me shit. Tape is pretty beat up but the fucker works perfect
View on Redditopen_in_new - #82May 3, 2025
Big score today, 40+ years later and they are smooth as butter.
You mean the drink tumbler company makes measuring tapes? /s In all seriousness, that looks like what my dad had. It might still be in a toolbox at my mom's place. That thing never had any issues. I've got an oversized Milwaukee that I like, but I should try to grab my dad's as a backup.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #83Apr 12, 2025
Is Parkside a good brand for their electric tools?
When you become an adult in America you have 3 choices dewalt, Milwaukee and Makita. I picked dewalt due to everyone carrying them. Do not waste money on batteries you can’t use on other tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #84Apr 9, 2025
What is your current BIFL item you recommend to everyone?
I think it’s Adam Savages strategy but I’m a tradesman and use it too, which is buy cheap tools till you break them or need more precise ones. Get ryobi power tools, if you’re a homeowner you’ll probably never need anything more substantial. When you do upgrade research per tool, no one brand is perfect. Certain Milwaukee tools are good but then sometime dewalt actually makes a better version. For cordless it’s sort of a pain since they all have different battery systems but for anything corded don’t bother going off brand just research the specific tool you need. For hand tools buy the absolute cheapest shit you can find. If it breaks buy a slightly more expensive version. Don’t get caught up in stuff like what’s the best hammer, no homeowner needs a $400 Stiletto hammer when the $10 no name will last a life time for your needs. Buy it for life depends on what kind of life you’re living
View on Redditopen_in_new - #85Apr 9, 2025
What is your current BIFL item you recommend to everyone?
Just build up a decent little set by going through Facebook Marketplace or however you find local stuff. You don't need a SnapOn wrench if you'll use it once a year. Get a cheap wrench, then as you use it more, you may need to upgrade to something nicer. I found a random bucket of tools on Facebook 3 years ago for $50 that included hammer, wrenches, ratchet, sockets, all kinds of general use stuff. Half of it doesn't have a brand name on it. Most of it is still usable. When you need to upgrade, even going to mid-tier stuff like Dewalt, Ryobi, Kobalt will work for MOST people. Then you can get into even nicer stuff like Bosch, SnapOn, Makita, Milwaukee, etc. People debate best brands - whatever. Some brands are better for their auto-tools. Some are better for construction stuff. I personally have all kinds of Dewalt tools because my brother gifted to me a combo with hammer and impact drills a few years ago, so I just keep it Dewalt to interchange batteries. Just know that whatever brand you go with, you'll all of a sudden start seeing amazing deals for all the other stuff except yours.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #86Apr 7, 2025
Me with the Golden Taco the day I bought it vs 4 years later... Still ticking with 530,000 miles!
Having just picked up a 2019 tacoma with a 5’ bed, i can confirm what Ive always said, there’s not point in a truck that doesn’t have an 8’ bed. I have the 4 door, its the perfect size truck for me (i drove crew cab diesels with 8’ beds for years, they are a pain in the ass). Honestly, been working out of the 5’ bed for a few weeks, its not that bad, Ive become a minimalist with my tool kit, pretty much can do 90% of any task in the trades, with a Milwaukee packout…
View on Redditopen_in_new - #87Apr 6, 2025
Will I regret going all in on Craftsman v20 tools?
Yea when this thing finally dies I'm just replacing it with the "regular" m12 fuel. I honestly would rather go with DeWalt but my company uses all Milwaukee so for a few of my basic/every day tools I went Milwaukee since we all share batteries
View on Redditopen_in_new - #88Apr 6, 2025
Will I regret going all in on Craftsman v20 tools?
Yes. The Surge is a solution in search of a problem. Since this post I have bought a dozen more M12 tools, including the Surge. The Surge is the only Milwaukee tool that has disappointed me. It's so over hyped on the Milwaukee sub. It's promised to be a great impact driver that is quiet, and it's neither. The DeWalt hydraulic is leaps and bounds better than the Surge. The Rigid hydraulic is better too. Hopefully that gives Milwaukee the kick in the pants they need to update the Surge. The 3453 M12 Fuel Impact driver is the bees knees, best power tool Milwaukee makes. It is hands down better than the Ryobi brushless impact driver I have. It's lighter, smaller, more powerful, and built to a higher quality.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #89Apr 6, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Ryobi's stength is that the batteries never change. Milwaukee's strength is that they always use the latest, best battery tech.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #90Apr 5, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Yeah, the Hercules is good too. I had started with Bauer a long while ago, so with the batteries already bought, i stuck with it! I use Milwaukee for job tools which dont come home, so for around the house it's hobo freight all day. Just bought the bauer pole saw last week and it's cut about 50 too high to reach branches already!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #91Apr 4, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
If I wasn't already balls deep on Milwaukee, Makita would be my second choice. They've been coming out with some really nice power tools lately. That being said, my Milwaukee stuff has never let me down. I'm not a weekend warrior, I'm an electrician so my tools get used and abused and the Milwaukee stuff takes it like a champ. Their return/warranty policy is top notch as well. I've got a few coworkers on DeWalt and as they break they're replacing with Milwaukee tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #92Apr 4, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Yes, quite a lot thanks. I'm not saying the cheap stuff is high quality like a real Mliluakee or Makita etc., but over the years the rising tide of manufacturing lifts all ships. Modern cheap stuff is pretty damn good compared to years ago, if you ignore the survivorship bias of the high quality stuff that made it this far there was a whole lot of stuff made decades ago that cost real money and was no better than something you can buy for almost nothing. Manufacturing tolerances, material quality, motor & battery performance, etc. have all come on leaps & bounds right across the board, and the prices have gone down.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #93Apr 4, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
TTI manufactures the orange Rigid power tools under license from Emerson Electric that are sold exclusively in Home Depot. TTI isn't going to put their battery tech in a competitors tool, they want to keep the latest and greatest for their Milwaukee brand. Ryobi is the low end power tool for your every day family and has the same battery design for the past 29 years, which is a huge selling point for a lot of families that have those batteries and tools handed down from other family. Less focus on ergonomics and weight distribution as these tools will primarily be used for just short amounts of time here and there. Milwaukee is the high end prosumer level tools that are designed with ergonomics in mind, (usually) more premium parts, features and internal components. Milwaukee can't share the Ryobi stick design as it would incur too many design constraints around ergonomics and internal component layout.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #94Apr 4, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
some people like a finish carpenter or furniture maker don't even go for battery format. they want the best tool for the job as their material and labor often completed is expensive. example the dewalt 10" mitersaw is best in 10" miter saws for accuracy. While milwaukee has the install driver for delicate fastening or their 1/2" high torque is a brute, and makita makes a wonderful drill and impact driver. and fein for the multi tool, and festool for a track saw. and whomever makes the domino cutter.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #95Apr 4, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Same. Their M12 line offers such amazing power for its size & weight, and their M12 Fuel is even crazier. Probably more than I will ever need as a home user/DIY, but it truly is a solid product. Plus you can easily leverage the 'hack' to get tool only deals as a reasonable price.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #96Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Milwaukee tools tend to test better than Ryobi, so that "upgrade" should not be in quotes. Agree with everything else though, they absolutely do it just to make more money, no other good reason than that.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #97Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
> Somebody bought me a Ryobi drill for Christmas 15 years ago I got the same thing about the same time and it's still kicking ass. I have Milwaukee tools at home but for stuff where you need two to keep from constantly changing the bit like drilling a countersunk pilot hole then driving the screw, the Ryobi one has been there use for use with my Milwaukee one and while it doesn't have quite as much power, it's never had a problem.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #98Apr 3, 2025
Meta: Can we stop with the "but its all made in the same factory" BS
This isn’t true. Companies aren’t just sending their worst tools to the big box stores. They may have a lesser grade tool sitting beside the higher grade one but they offer both. Most tool stores do though. Milwaukee has fuel or just standard at Home Depot. Same with dewalts lineup. Both offered. I don’t think anyone makes b quality appliances just tiers. The only true thing that applies to is like fixtures. Moen at Home Depot is plastic but at a plumbing supply they have the high quality all metal versions you can’t find in big box stores.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #99Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Makita and Fein are the goats but Milwaukee’s battery setup is excellent.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #100Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
I have lots of Ridgid and Milwaukee I like them more than DeWalt counterparts. Just speaking from experience. I've seen more dewalt with loose parts and impacts that crack in half upon dropping. Milwaukee batteries have cracked but I took them apart and they still worked. Even bought battery rebuilt kit for one for real cheap
View on Redditopen_in_new - #101Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
My Milwaukee 12v tools are by far the best and longest living cordless power tools I’ve used, and I was in the industry as a tool geek for 20 odd years. That being said, I’ve never purchased a makita product. Never had anything against the brand, just something about the design philosophy never sat right with me.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #102Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
Makita, Milwaukee, DeWalt are all great consumer tool brands. You just have to pick a battery pack format and stick with it. For corded, you can't go wrong with those brands.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #103Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
was a heavy diesel mechanic for 5 years, did cars before that. DeWalt and Milwaukee were the tools that lasted the most. Makitas just couldn't stand the abuse as well. idk why a chart showing corporate ownership makes you think Makita makes a better product but most guys in most shops share my experience. all brands failed eventually, but the Makitas were lasting months and the DeWalt and Milwaukee lasted years
View on Redditopen_in_new - #104Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
The truth is, no power tool will work forever. It's about serviceability, warranty, build quality, durability, etc. Ridgid is great in this regard. They have schematics of most of their tools hosted online. It will show you every single part and screw on a tool, with part numbers for purchasing purposes. Decent warranty, too. Milwaukee also has schematics with part numbers and a decent warranty. Great quality and durability on the FUEL line of tools, be it M12 or M18. I'm sure there's other brands, but i typically use these 2.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #105Apr 3, 2025
I’ve always been a Makita guy without knowing anything about the corporate side. My tools always just felt more solid and durable than coworkers’ Dewalt or Milwaukee. Then I saw this in r/construction.
You can definitely get an adapter on Amazon that will allow you to use a Milwaukee battery on a Ryobi tool.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #106Apr 3, 2025
Unpopular Opinion: “Researching Before Buying” as an Excuse for Overthinking
I think a lot of the issue comes in with there's very little nuance on this sub even if someone gives context and a budget "Hi I'm a new home owner and rarely need to do some basic DIY, what tools should I get" - now the actual answer is basically anything will be a BIFL item for that person (or as long as the cordless battery lives) But people jump to recommending the most expensive Makita/Milwaukee tools Compare that to the DIY subs and unless you're a tradesperson you'll usually just get recommended Ryobi
View on Redditopen_in_new - #107Apr 1, 2025
What to buy for upkeep of house as a 22M?
I’d definitely say Milwaukee tops the list for BIFL so to see it not included in the comment at all was something I had to address. All the brands are decent for at home use but only the Milwaukee is the only one I haven’t seen burn up and die while drilling wholes in 3/4 inch steel beams.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #108Apr 1, 2025
What to buy for upkeep of house as a 22M?
Not to be argumentative but as someone who’s very versed on power tools. Absolutely nothing compares to Milwaukee in terms of durability/reliability.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #109Apr 1, 2025
What to buy for upkeep of house as a 22M?
Buy second hand drill and driver. Makita. Milwaukee.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #110Mar 4, 2025
BIFL, but also BISecondhand. What are some things that everyone should keep an eye out for, but can commonly be found for cheap when preowned.
Shit, I buy most big ticket stuff used, I'll do a quick list of the things that comes to mind: **Electronics:** * Laptop - refurb Dell Precision * Desktop - used HP Z2 G4 plus RX 5700XT * Terra master NAS and surplus HGST hard drives * Xbox controllers * Camera - Canon 5D MkII + Tamron 28-75mm f2 * Watch - Pebble Time **Household stuff:** * Kenmore laundry center * Frigidaire dehumidifier * Panasonic microwave * Swing-a-way can openers * Cuisinart food processors * KitchenAid mixers * pots and pans * bakeware * Clothes, mostly Eddie Bauer, Chacos, LL bean **Tools:** * Toro lawnmower (from the side of the road) * Used spare parts for lawnmower * Bosch jigsaw * DeWalt router * Milwaukee weedeater * Pole saw attachment * Sawzall * Impact wrench * JBC soldering station * HP oscilloscope * Tektronix power supplies * Kikusui DC loads * REED LCR meter * surplus RF cables and connectors Most of these didn't require any fixing beyond some light cleaning, and in most cases I would say that I got a good deal. Even paying the upper end of market value for the used market, you still get a much nicer product than what the same money would buy new, and you get to help keep more unnecessary stuff from being produced Its a bit intimidating to start buying expensive stuff online, but once you get a feel for how sellers in a particular niche tend to advertise and document things, you can get a very good idea of how the things will function.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #111Feb 10, 2025
What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?
Honda, Milwaukee, Gibson guitars.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #112Feb 10, 2025
Do you think BIFL is actually cost effective?
If I buy something cheap and it breaks I’ll usually replace it with the next level up. I do this every time with most things. Clothes usually aren’t worth paying major money besides carhartt workwear. Cheap jeans usually last me as long as high end ones. Tools I try to stick with Milwaukee because I’m already in the system. Hand tools are all harbor freight with the same warranty as snap on for most things. Kitchen stuff and household items I usually go with the concept of electronics fail after 5-10 years. Cast iron is forever. Dogs and kids destroy furniture but ymmv. My next major upgrades will be bedroom mattresses last for 10-15 years for a good one bed frame can be forever and same for dressers For me I really like the concept of upgrading when needed until eventually everything turns into bifl
View on Redditopen_in_new - #113Feb 6, 2025
What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?
Victorinox has never disappointed. Everything I bought from Fiskars is great. My shovel and spading fork will never die. Milwaukee (tools) have never let me down.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #114Feb 5, 2025
What’s one product you bought that has lasted forever and was totally worth it?
Milwaukee recipocating saw. I've had it since 1989 and have beaten the hell out of it!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #115Feb 5, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Do not use ryobi. They break. Period. If I were starting over I would go Milwaukee. Trades like them because they have a wide selection of tools and their batteries seem to hold up better than dewalt.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #116Feb 5, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
you only need to consider ecosystem on cordless tools. anything with a cord, just buy the best. anything cordless... pick one and stick to it. Dewalt is great. Milwaukee is great. Makita is great. but dealt is greatest because yellow!
View on Redditopen_in_new - #117Feb 5, 2025
What’s one product you bought that has lasted forever and was totally worth it?
I still have Craftsman tools I bought in the 1970's when I was in high school. A Black and Decker drill with a metal case. Milwaukee Magnum electric drill.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #118Feb 3, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Went with the lighter weight WORX set. You can call CS to get free string for you trimmer. Off the topic but my 40 plus year X-mark zero turn is still kicking!! I also have a nice Milwaukee drill set. If you sign up for Home Depot emails you can get some amazing offers.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #119Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Milwauke M12 Fuel is what I'd recommend for DIYers. Has as much power as bushed 18V tools in a smaller lighter package, and the lineup is very broad and versatile especially if you do your own auto maintenance with the ratchet and stubby impact.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #120Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Ryobi is awesome. Just don't tell anybody you use them or you'll get called names. Personally, everything I have is Milwaukee because of the quality and I like red more than yellow.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #121Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Ryobi is perfect for the homeowner/DIYer. They have the largest ecosystem of tools that operate on the same battery. When I had Ryobi tools I could pull the battery from my drill and use it in the weed walker without sacrificing power or quality. This approach lead me to pick Milwaukee when I upgraded my tools. I don’t want to have to manage multiple battery platforms.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #122Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I have tried a few and was always left with a feeling of meh, until I bought a few Milwaukee pieces. Now I don’t know if I would buy another brand honestly. The battery life and power are great, the range of tools is huge, and I feel like the pricing is fair.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #123Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I use Dewalt for cordless. Drill, impact gun reciprocating, saw blower grinder, etc.. but I bought most of that when I was working in a supply house so I got it cheap If I’m doing a project and need a specialty tool, I have no problem going to Harbor freight and buying the cheapest version I can get. The idea of being that this a one time use and if you break it doing your project, you can return it. That’s never happened though. For a homeowner hobbies Ryobi Makita rigid kobolt all very very good options. If you’re looking to buy a tool, that’s gonna outlive its current battery technology aka last forever. You can buy Milwaukee or Dewalt. As long as you’re not using it in a trade to make money and you’re just using it for your uses. They will last for an extremely long time. I still have my original 18 V NiCad cordless running off lithium with a converter piece.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #124Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Never thought I'd find someone with my same division. Milwaukee for all the things I care about, Ryobi for all the things that I only use occasionally. If the Ryobi fails to perform, I'll buy the Milwaukee version.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #125Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
For me the only issue that I have had is the size of the impact driver and cordless ratchet. Don’t get me wrong both my Ryobi impacts and my cordless ratchet work great, but if space is an issue I have to grab my work bag with my M12 series. Actually now that I think of it my only M12 stuff I have is the ratchets, tiny impact driver, and heated vest (which is amazing). I use Ryobi for most everything else that’s not plugged in. The nice thing about Ryobi is their huge catalog with each tool having multiple levels. But the thing I will stress is to use the right tool for the job. A hammer drill for instance has multiple different types that are different internally to do different things. Also good accessories really help any tools. My 30 year old Craftsman table saw has Forrest blades and it cuts like a dream, and my Ryobi sanders use 3M Cubitron sandpaper. Good accessories will help with any tool perform to the best they can. As for your specific tools you are looking at, I own everything but their pressure washer. That I have a Powerhorse from Northern Tool, so I can’t give you any advice on that. But the other stuff I own and use and are more than happy with. My caveat with the shop vac is don’t expect the Ryobi or any battery powered one to compete with a good plug in model (which if you need one Ridgid and Craftsman make top notch wet/dry vacs). If you have anymore questions let me know.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #126Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
If you are an occasional DIYer, go Ryobi. Tools are pretty good, inexpensive, and they have a massive ecosystem. For heavy DIYers I do think the DeWalt/Milwaukee/Makita tier is worth is, but you pay a pretty big premium for the improved performance and reliability. I use my tools enough to justify it, but most people don’t. As a DeWalt owner, I’ve also found myself investing in a few Ryobi tools that DeWalt either doesn’t sell or sells for much more.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #127Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Real answer is what tools do you need? Almost everyone makes a good drill, impact, and sawzall. I now have an unholy amalgamation of battery systems. Framing nailer, you need ryobi, ridgid, or Milwaukee. Plunge/tracksaw you might want Bosch, makita or Milwaukee, but not ryobi. 1/2 impact for cars, Milwaukee, ridgid, ryobi. Tree lopper(amazing tool) only dewalt. I haven’t run into anything “bad” The other trick is sometimes the tool on sale is cheaper with the batteries than the one that is on the platform you have. I have a ridgid framing nailer because it is the same as the ryobi and Milwaukee and was 200 dollars cheaper with the batteries, then bare tool on the other platforms.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #128Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Ryobi's carpentry tools are absolute trash. If you expect any accuracy or consistency, you won't get it with them. The foot of the circular saw is thin stamped steel that flexes while you cut. The miter and sliding saws don't stay true through their movement. The router collet slips. The motors and such seem fine, but the tools are built poorly and it shows. Ridgid is my go-to for good price/performance, but a lot of my hand tools are stuck with Ryobi. My plan is to scrap the whole set and replace with Ridgid for corded, Milwaukee for battery once all the batteries finally die.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #129Feb 2, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Exact same experience here. All of my major stuff is Milwaukee and I’m very pleased. I do more than the average DIYer but I’m not in the trades - I just love working with my hands. Built a two level deck over the summer. Have a few Ryobi things that have been fine for stuff I don’t use a ton, like a hedge trimmer.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #130Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I personally have Milwaukee stuff bc I use them at work too. But to keep a small toolset in my gfs car/apartment I’ve been buying the Hercules system from harbor freight. I’m pretty impressed by the quality so far.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #131Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Ryobi for most, Milwaukee fuel 12v if you’re rich.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #132Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Prob go Dewalt if I were you. Milwaukee is king but for the average DIY feller Dewalt is a nice spot to land. Tons of options, quality is decent, lots of stuff on buy and sell to add to your collection. I'm an electrician and when my original Milwaukee stuff like 10 years is still going. My company now supplies us with Milwaukee Fuel stuff and it's top notch. Last year I grabbed a kit on marketplace with an impact, drill, Sawzall and circular saw..it's pretty solid. The drill is a piece of junk but the rest are great for the price. You can replace the brushes yourself pretty cheap if you burn it out too.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #133Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Makita or Milwaukee anything else is better done by the aforementioned for a reasonable price
View on Redditopen_in_new - #134Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I went with Milwaukee because I like the fact that I can use a single battery platform for pretty much all of their tool offerings. I have a drill, impact driver, impact wrench, hackzawll, orbital sander, fan, shop vac, mower, weedeater, blower and a few others and it all uses the same M18 batteries. I like that the lawn equipment doesn’t require bigger batteries. I’m sure their are cheaper alternatives and it may have been cheaper to go with Ryobi or whatever but I do take advantage of a lot of the Home Depot deals where you return part of a buy this get this free to get a steep discount on a lot of the items.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #135Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
For my money I would say go with Milwaukee for cordless…. They aren’t the cheapest by any means, but their tools are pretty high quality and durable. You can get bundles for pretty great discounts around the holidays. If you keep your eye out on Home Depot ads. Especially for something that you may end up using for a long time. I’ve had the same impact driver and drill combo running for 15 years of abuse (Dropping from ladders, etc….) and they are still working. If I were to start over and buy tools again, I would get everything from the Milwaukee Fuel brushless tool line. Also, their warranty kicks ass….i have their handheld vacuum that takes the 18V batteries., which is arguably my most used tool… Motors on these things tend to go out after extended periods of usage, I’ve had it replaced twice for free over the last six years… I believe the first time was after 2 1/2 years or so, got a new one and then the warranty started up again with the brand new one. I recently replaced it for free again just last year. No questions asked! Also, for seldomly used cordless tools that you don’t want to pay the Milwaukee premium for (such as the hot glue gun), you can find cheap tools from Amazon that use Milwaukee batteries, or find battery adapters to use with other brands.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #136Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I’m a professional cabinet maker and I used Milwaukee m12 drill/driver everyday and it’s more than enough about 99/100 times. Other guys in the shop are also using 12v systems as well.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #137Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Tools are the sort of thing you want to buy once. Just get dewalt or Milwaukee 24v line
View on Redditopen_in_new - #138Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
My work uses Milwaukee tools and they've been great. By that, I mean you grab a tool and you use it. There's no fiddling or compensating for your tool breaking. No excessive wear despite years of use and abuse. Just keep your batteries charged. The only real downside is the price. While I have never tried DeWalt cordless tools, their corded tools are tanks and last a long time.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #139Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
We started with Royobi when we bought our house 10 years ago. Along the way we decided that Milwaukee was a better play for us and the deals on additional batteries were better. In that time frame we have, demo, gut to stud, rebuilt a full bathroom. Demo carpet and baseboards in full house to lay vinyl. Demo walls. Built cabinet boxes, shelving, etc. I think hubby's weed Wacker is also cordless now? I'd have to double check honestly, but we don't live in an HOA so that's an infrequent use item for us. If you aren't tackling DIY that involves ripping out drywall, you likely don't need anything "better" than royobi. But my Milwaukee multitool is used very often in our home and has single handedly saved my bank account from the purchase of at least 3 other tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #140Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Get the battery adaptor and throw the makita battery on the ryobi tools that you use less often. I do this and save money on the tools I don't use as much but still have milwaukee for the ones I use often.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #141Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I bridge the gap, i have my main tool (drill, driver, circular saw, vacuum) in Milwaukee. Then I got a battery adaptor and have other tools I use less often in Ryobi. Like nail gun, leaf blower, ect.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #142Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I have both red and yellow in my truck and they get used regularly. They both seem to be on about the same level. What counts is which one came out the most recent. They tend to one up each other. If I had to pick just one it would be red. That's only because the portable air compressor is awesome. Home depot also runs plenty of sales with free batteries. Yellow is still a great tool and will often just grab whichever is closer.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #143Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
This is nonsense. Yes, higher voltage batteries exist. Nobody wants a giant 60v battery on a drill. Yes, Flex uses 24v. This was a marketing strategy that mostly failed and I will be surprised if that company even still exists in 10 years. Milwaukee has a robust lineup of 12v tools that are used by professionals in every trade. The m12 line is excellent and it isn’t going anywhere. Milwaukee, dewalt, makita, and ridgid all use 18v battery systems. These aren’t going anywhere. Higher voltage tools exist for good reason, but that doesn’t mean the standard voltage tools are being phased out.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #144Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
this decision will be your equivalent to the sorting hat in Harry Potter placing you in a house. Choose wisely..... all kidding aside personally I went dewalt, I have family members that use Milwaukee any Ryobi. Your mileage will vary but if you are going light use, id say look out for sales. Places like Home Depot and Lowes will do sales on all the major brands where you can save a few dollars or get extra batteries.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #145Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I will second the Ryobi 1+ battery issue. I got one of those combo packs on Black Friday for dirt cheap and ended up with 4 batteries with the tools. That was in 2020 and I’m down to 1 battery for everything. I’d keep an eye out for DeWalt Or Milwaukee sales and pounce on them.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #146Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I've gone in on the Milwaukee M18 Fuel system. Previously had DeWalt (the 20v Max line) with roommates and left it when we moved out, hence the switch. The Milwaukee stuff feels much better to me. It's probably overkill for my use case, but I also don't think it'll ever die on me? Also tends to have pretty good resale value and be in-demand, so I feel like the long term cost of ownership is lower too. Not that DeWalt isn't, but I see much lower prices on used dewalt gear. I've heard great things about Ryobi / Rigid / etc. too for most home DIYers, so I guess it depends a bit on what you're doing
View on Redditopen_in_new - #147Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I’m all over the place with my tools. Milwaukee M18 line: drill, driver, impact wrench, angle grinder, circular saw, hackzall. Porter Cable 12” miter saw Dremel rotary tool Ridgid oscillating saw Bosch jig saw and 12v interchangeable head driver I like the battery operated Milwaukee tools for things I use a little more often. I’m a fan of corded tools for things that only may get used a couple of times per year.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #148Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I've been happy with my Ridgid 18V TOOLS but the batteries have been a huge letdown. I also have quite a bit of Ryobi stuff I've acquired for free but don't usually purchase it unless it's a random tool I won't need often. If I were shopping today I'd look at Milwaukee or Kobalt. No matter what, don't be like me - make sure to register your tools and batteries for warranty.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #149Feb 1, 2025
Looking to consolidate battery powered lawn and power tools, what are the pro and cons of each major manufacturer?
Milwaukee has a very wide selection of lawn and garden tools. I have the blower, edger combo and it is a great tool set.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #150Feb 1, 2025
Looking to consolidate battery powered lawn and power tools, what are the pro and cons of each major manufacturer?
EGO is my personal favorite for lawn stuff. They have everything from weed whips to riding mowers and chain saws. No power tools though. DeWalt, great for power tools and they do a couple of yard tools like weed whips and leaf blowers. Good quality/price Milwaukee, same as DeWalt, but they also have a few neat things like heated jackets and pants. And have better battery size than DeWalt. So I went with EGO and DeWalt. Which I've been building up for 10 years or so.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #151Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Pick an battery ecosystem and stick with it. The batteries are the expensive part and having battery compatibility is more important than the differences in tool performance (which you will probably never notice as a DIYer). I am mostly in Milwaukee for my 12v tools. When I had a yard (currently living in an apartment) I liked Makita for things like an electric lawnmower and chainsaw.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #152Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
agreed. either pony up for milwaukee if you're a pro and need the performance or stick with ryobi imo. rigid is cool if you really like air tools OR if you really like their warranty. if i was to use rigid i would use air simply because air can't die from being in storage and having a compressor is surprisingly useful. hercules is also worth considering if you're a fan of harbor freight and really value their easy to use warranty. i am flipping an entire house right now using nothing but ryobi. i bought all of it used off marketplace and none of it has let me down.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #153Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I'd go Milwaukee or Makita for any corded tools, they'll last a lifetime. Anything with a battery is only going to last a few years so I'd go affordable over quality if it's only getting light use. DeWalt has always been okay, Ryobi has been drastically improving the quality compared to a few years ago and would also be a solid choice.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #154Feb 1, 2025
Looking to consolidate battery powered lawn and power tools, what are the pro and cons of each major manufacturer?
Agreed. I have Ryobi for tools (saws, drills, etc ) and Kobalt 80v for lawn. Ryobi does lawn, too, in both 18v and 40v. Ryobi has a huge product line, so you can probably get any tool from them if there's a battery version. Milwaukee is probably the top mass-produced line in terms of quality, but it's priced accordingly. No lawn tools I know of from them. Lots of people like Ego lawn tools. They use a 56v battery. Take your time, check around and decide what works for you.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #155Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
The answer is to not feel constrained to one ecosystem. For a situation where you're going to buy a bunch of batteries and need everything to work together (e.g. a contractor/company), this makes sense. For a DIY-er it's unnecessary. The tradeoff is to buy a premium brand (DeWalt/Milwaukee/Makita/Bosch) for your heavily used tools (e.g. drill/driver) or where there is a real quality/functionality benefit. Then buy a budget brand for all the other stuff. I have DeWalt as my main stuff, but there is no way I was paying a price premium to buy a DeWalt caulk gun and 18g nailer for the few times a year I need rhem, so I bought Ryobi.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #156Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
I love my Milwaukee tools. Mostly because the tools are red, my favorite color.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #157Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Milwaukee has the highest quality and power (generally for a higher price) Dewalt is the best balance of price, quality, and selection Makita has great quality and the best selection, that extends beyond just construction tools
View on Redditopen_in_new - #158Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Ryobi is easily the best of the mid range brands. All my personal cordless tools are the Milwaukee 12v line.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #159Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
My heart said Milwaukee when I started my journey and it’s been great quality. That said, I’ve purchased a few Ryobi things and they also have served me well. In all honesty, Ryobi is probably a good place to start and if you use something to death or decide you want a better version, no worries upgrading. I have a near $300 Milwaukee jigsaw I’ve used 3 times. Not a fan of jigsaws and I just don’t find much use…would have been better off buying multiple Ryobi tools for the same cost. I’m very much a buy once cry once and I love quality, but for a home DIY I say start with Ryobi level and go from there.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #160Feb 1, 2025
Which tool brand ecosystem would you invest in for 2025 and why for the occasionally frugal DIYer?
Milwaukee and for hands tools Wera and knipex.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #161Jan 8, 2025
In need of warm winter coat with a budget of $350-400
Not a long coat but a Milwaukee lithium ion heated coat would only run in the $200-250 range and check the rest of your boxes.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #162Jan 5, 2025
Has everything we buy reduced in quality over time? Has anything increased in quality or stayed high quality and durable?
I haven’t seen tools mentioned. I get 98% of my tools from Harbor Freight, I can afford the Icon line of stuff and it’s really good quality and it’s relatively well priced. The power tool technology is vastly improved and it’s cheaper. I got a dewalt 14.4v drill probably 20 years ago and it was like $120 buck for a drill and battery, maybe a charger. I can get a 20v system for under $100 bucks now and it’s much better quality. I’ll spend 40-50 or more on a good ratchet because I know it’s likely to outlast me, has a lifetime warranty, so the manufacturer has an incentive to make it last, and it’s nice to use. Craftsman used to be good when it was made in USA, now they are slightly worse than a ton of other brands that are sold everywhere. Icon, Milwaukee, Kobalt, Quinn, Duralast, Gearwrench, and Tekton all make super good tools and I’d buy any of them and not be concerned with them not lasting many years.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #163Jan 1, 2025
BIFL Request: Snow Blowers, does electric hold up?
Yeah, like a car which has a battery right? Stop using blanket statements like the ignorant. If you have battery snow blower experience, help OP....if you don't, keep your blanket over your head. OP, I have no advice as to whether they hold up or work well which are the TWO points you need to know, not just holding up. I also didn't know and I just got a gasser, but you do have a valid question. Also, it you already have a battery ecosystem, that would be the one to run. For example, I have a bunch of EGO stuffs and Milwaukee stuffs, so that's what I'd go with if I made the switch.
View on Redditopen_in_new - #164Jan 1, 2025
Unpopular Opinion: "BIFL" as an excuse for overspending
I am certainly not going to use whatever that L shaped thing is they put in the area for the jack. So I definitely need one of those Milwaukee tools.
View on Redditopen_in_new