Hi folks,
I am looking at buying the cheap ($129) Makita corded impact driver from Bunnings. I have about 500 14 gauge 75mm galvanized screws to drive into hardwood. If anyone has used this drill for any length of time, do you think it is up to the task?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->

liar, no one ever has to many toys, errrr tools

750 watt is heaps big enouigh if geared correctly. My Makita 750 watt drill will twist your arm in half.

I've got a 1400 watt GMC - even though they are the little baby Chinese watts, not the big, hairy chested full size German or USA watts it still goes Ok for most things I want it to do.....

impact driver...
Must have tool!
I have a Milwaukee Li-ion V18 and it has driven everything from 8 guage x 25mm screws, roofing teks and 10mm x 125mm coach bolts.
Way better than using a drill to drive screws. More control, quicker, and less likely to strip the heads.
For small stuff I use a Makita 10.8v Li-ion impact driver and boy! Even that has a load of grunt. They also have a handy led light on them, when you pull the trigger. Great for using in cupboards, and I have even used it as a torch in the roof.

My new toy, errr, tool, xmas pressie from the wife & kids (I did have to go and buy it myself, but didn't have to use my personal cash stash)

AEG 18V LITHIUM ION CORDLESS DRILL



no, I did not pay $300+ !

I got a new drill for Xmas, but I have never thought about an impact driver. Think I might have to put that on the list for my birthday.

PowerMaster from Big W ($30) v.Taurus from ALDI ($40) v. Black n' Decker from Big W ($70)

I don't use a drill often and I'm no pro but I want an electric one because my wonderful, faithful Sturdee hand-drill is rooted and they don't seem available any more.

I think ALDI stuff is generally good, I had a beaut B & D toaster but perhaps the $30 Powermaster will do the trick. I'm tempted by the ALDI job as a good compromise.

If you wuz me, faced with this choice, what would you buy?

Ideally get an impact drill, but if you're gonna use a normal drill, either get a cheapie which is 240v mains, or spend the money and get a high-quality lithium 18v. Pre-drill the holes and lube the screws. If you'll be doing it a bit in the future get an impact drill they go in easier.

Thanks up- the -gully - I'm a bit embarrassed to say I don't know what extra magic an impact drill has (presumably more "impact") but I can look it up on the Net.