When i started in HVAC in the late 80's I used a corded drill for installs. Around that time the cordless drills were getting popular, so, before buying my own I "tested" all the brands available by borrowing someone's while on the job. The blue Makita 9.6v won by a mile, so I grabbed a kit. $160 for a drill, battery, and charger in a metal case.
After the first round of batteries went dead I began to notice the newer metal hydride versions didn't seem to last as long. I tried to find a better battery but by then the planned obsolescence had begun with the manufacturers bringing out a "new" drill (with higher voltage) every few years. Most guys just upgraded. I read the proverbial tea leaves and saw where this was all going, so I went back to corded drills. They were commonly available, cheap, and - with some of my own cord mods - always had power.
I actually ended up giving my old Makita to a forum member. Just a few years later I discovered Makita had done a whole line of tools using that stick battery, so regretted giving it away. But I've been blessed since with finding a replacement drill, saw, right angle drills, and several flashlights along with batteries, chargers, and cases. Gonna try and get the batteries I have rebuilt. For those few times a quick job is all I need I have a cordless to do it.
But I'm still using the corded ones around the house. Have installed 12' cords to make use easier, and some plug-ins to get power on the roof without a 50' extension cord.
