Milwaukee slim contractor box level

Power tools and accessories cover corded and cordless drills, hammer drills, drill drivers, screwdrivers, angle grinders, sanders, staplers and wire strippers, together with the bits, blades, holesaws and batteries that go with them.

Corded or cordless

Corded tools run as long as there is a socket nearby. Cordless tools use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries built around a voltage platform, such as 18V. Batteries usually fit only tools from the same manufacturer's platform, so check compatibility before buying a spare. The amp-hour (Ah) figure shows battery capacity: a higher Ah battery gives longer run time per charge.

Choosing accessories

• Drill bits: high speed steel (HSS) bits for metal, masonry bits for brick and block, and diamond bits for tile and stone. SDS-plus bits fit only SDS-plus hammer drills.
• Reciprocating saw blades: blades with fewer teeth per inch (TPI) cut wood faster but more roughly; blades with more TPI cut metal and give a finer edge.
• Holesaws and multi-tool blades: check the diameter or blade width, the material it is made for, and the fitting it uses.
• Grinder discs: use a disc of the size and type the grinder is rated for.

Working safely

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety data for each tool and accessory, and wear suitable eye, ear and dust protection. Regular use of vibrating tools can harm the hands and arms, so choose lower-vibration tools and limit time on the trigger. Cutting or drilling brick, concrete and stone releases silica dust; use on-tool extraction or water suppression where possible.

For replacement parts and consumables, see power tool spares and accessories; for manual tools, see hand tools.