Dewalt or Makita?

Doesn't answer your question, but would you consider Bosch?

Steve

Think you'll find there are a few DW 566 owned by people here - perhaps because it was about the first affordable quality one. I've no complaints with mine.

I can only speak for the DW566, but am totally happy with it bar one exception. The forward / reverse switch is right above the trigger, I have _one time only_ sworn at a hole only to discover I was drilling it in reverse. An error caused by the ease the switch can be knocked. Simplest plus points - the long cable meaning most tasks can be accomplished without needing the extension reel. You'll rarely go back to your heavyweight bruiser.

Toby.

The Makita is a class act, the other is a B&D.

or Hitachi? ... I don't like DeWalt .....a couple of problems with some of the DeWalt tools I have, have not been dealt with well. I have a Hitachi Cordless that has out lived 2 DeWalts, even after being dropped in a bucket of 2 part PU foam.

Thanks for all the replies, very helpful. I think I'll go for the Makita - once my hands and arms have recovered from using the Challenge!

Cheers, Jon