Accessories

What it does
From reading these reviews it seems that there is a lot of confusion about the Bosch 10.8-volt line of compact tools. This review is about the PS40 impact driver. Bosch also offers the PS20 which is a similar driver that does not have an impact motion and the PS10 that serves as a variable angle driver that is good in tight spaces.

The impact function simply means that there is a hammering effect on the back of the bit and this forces the bit forward so it won't slip out of the screw slots and strip them. You do not have to lean on the driver to keep the bit and the screw engaged. This works in forward and reverse.

The term "driver" means that the primary use of these tools is to drive screws, nuts and bolts rather than to drill. The instructions with the PS40 say to NOT use it as a drill. Drivers are slower than drills, only 400 rpm, and really aren't good at drilling. I experimented and you can drill small holes, up to maybe 1/4, if you stay away from deep holes.

All of these drivers have a chuck that takes only hex-head bits and drills. This is a quick and secure way to attach things. There are millions of drivers of every size and variety that fit this system (Bosch calls it "clic-change"), but only small sized drill bits because that is all these tools can handle and the hex part isn't big enough for bigger bits anyway.

The PS40 is excellent for what it is designed to do. My first task was to remove rusted old screws from a rusted old gutter, one handed with no way to apply pressure. The PS40 kept the bit engaged with the clogged-up slots in the screw heads and they came right out. I also plan to use it for installing a lot of drawer sliders. It is always hard to tighten those screws without stripping them.

I would say that this is one of those must-have tools. I would never throw away the big drill and you will only frustrate yourself if you think you are going to drive giant screws through decks all day.

Note that Bosch has come out with 12-volt versions of these tools. Reviewers have noted that the specs seem the same and so there is some confusion. In any case, the 1.2 volt difference is not going to be noticed and the 10.8 versions are cheaper.

Best in terms of size and class
For the size and weight, this is the most powerful drill I've ever used. I have been using it to drive 3 inch deck screws into studs, as well as around-the-house chores such as hanging doors. The advantage of this drill is that you can just carry this compact drill around and accomplish most DIY tasks with it. I've framed-out an entire bathroom with this drill. I've even used it to drill out 1" holes in studs.

The light comes in handy, especially in dark corners so that you don't have to wear a silly headlight or have a friend hold up a flashlight.

Some people have been comparing this drill to the Makita 18v driver, and that's just silly. That's like saying an inline-4 engine can't hang with a V-8! It's not comparing apples to apples. Of course the 18v driver would have more torque. Plus, that huge base battery on the Makita makes it too unwieldy for tight spaces.

If you were to buy 1 cordless drill to have around the house, then this is it.

impactor
great tool , great size, could use little more power, but all in all it's hard to beat. -Brett.

A Great driver
Own a sailboat and this has become my onboard tool. Fits into tight spaces where normal drills can't go. Great tool.

Great little package
This drill is impressive. Very surprised at how much power this thing has. As soon as you pick this up you can feel the quality in respect to: the plastic used on the body, grips, and balance of tool. Three LED Light system is very bright and a nice touch. The noise will get to you if using it in a repetitious manner. If driving long screws into say pressure treated lumber like building a deck you will go through the batteries fairly quickly. Other than that HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!