DEWALT DC987SA 18-Volt Ni-Cad Cordless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Torque, speed and great ergonomics: DeWalt pulled it all together in this 18-volt XRP 1/2-inch drill/driver. Even at its peak 500 inch-pounds of torque, you feel no twist. We're impressed, too, with the patented three-speed transmission (offering 0-450, 0-1,450 and 0-2,000) for whatever material you're drilling into. Its max speed of 2,000 rpm is 38 percent faster than high speed. We like the all-metal ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws because we've had a bit slip every now and then, and the jaws help keep a tight grip on the shank. It's well-balanced, comfortable to grip and a joy to use. The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts to 50 degrees are no sweat; the saw's easy to adjust and the scale's clear. The rip fence isn't the best we've seen, but that's a relatively small blemish on an otherwise great combo.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste