Porter-Cable drills offer power options

Porter-Cable recently launched a new line of corded and cordless power tools and accessories designed for the professional user.

The 18-volt cordless line features a lithium-ion drill, though the others are powered by nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries.

“Both types, NiCad and lithium, each have their own pros and cons, and we wanted to make sure that the user had the ability to design a collection of batteries that are tailored to their needs,” says Frank Andrew, Porter-Cable’s director of product marketing. “NiCad chemistry is dependable under most operating conditions and relatively inexpensive. However, it is heavier and a little more bulky than what lithium offers.”

The lithium-ion drill/driver is sold in a kit, model PCL180DK-2, for $180, which includes two batteries, a 30-minute charger and soft storage bag. The drill/driver weighs 3.8 lbs. and features a 1/2" all-metal chuck, two-speed gearbox, 24-position clutch and LED worklight.

The NiCad drill/driver is also sold in a kit, model PC180DK-2, for $100, which includes two batteries, a one-hour charger and hard plastic storage box. The NiCad drill/driver features a 32-position clutch.

The cordless lineup also includes a variable speed reciprocating saw, model PC18RS, with a tool-free blade-changing system that sells for $50 (batteries and charger not included); 6-1/2" circular saw, model PC18CSL, with integrated laser guide for $60; hammer drill kit, model PC180HDK-2, for $140; and flashlight, model PC18FL, for $17.

The 18-volt tools can be purchased in two- and four-tool combo kits.

Porter-Cable’s new corded offerings include a hammer drill, angle grinder and drill/driver, and two reciprocating and circular saws.

The 7.5-amp angle grinder, model PC750AG, has a 4-1/2" wheel and is suited for cutting rebar and concrete, removing paint and rust, grinding welding beads and sharpening blades, according to the company. It sells for $40.

The 1/2" drill, model PC700D, has a 7-amp motor and sells for $70.

The 7-1/4" circular saws are available with 15-amp (model PC15CSLK) and 13-amp (model PC13CSL) motors, and are priced at $80 and $60, respectively.

The reciprocating saws are available with 8-5-amp (model PC850RSOK) and 7.5-amp (model PC750RS) motors, and sell for $80 and $60. The 1/2-inch hammer drill, model PC650HD, goes for $70.

Contact: Porter-Cable, 4825 Highway 45 N., P.O. Box 2468, Jackson, TN 38302. www.deltaportercable.com

This article originally appeared in the February 2009 issue.