Cordless power tools

[Pointedstick]

I'm thinking of buying some cordless power tools, but worry that the battery life will be very low and I'll be constantly charging and swapping batteries, especially for only occasionally-used tools like angle grinders. Can anyone here who uses cordless power tools comment on that, or which tools are best kept as their corded versions?

[FarmerD]

I'm thinking of buying some cordless power tools, but worry that the battery life will be very low and I'll be constantly charging and swapping batteries, especially for only occasionally-used tools like angle grinders. Can anyone here who uses cordless power tools comment on that, or which tools are best kept as their corded versions?

Normally battery life isn't a problem.  The problem I've had with cordless power tools is that the battery packs go bad after a few years.  The cost of buying a new battery pack is almost as much as buying a new corded power tool.  The lifetime warranty on power tools usually does not apply to their battery packs (make sure to check the fine print on any cordless tool you buy).  Cordless tools are simpler and therefore less likely to break down.  Same principle applies to items such as electric shavers - I've gotten 2 expensive cordless shavers as presents but in both cases, the darn battery charger goes bad so you have to toss the whole shaver in the garbage.  Never had a problem with a corded shaver. 

So unless you're working in an area where using a cord is inconvenient, IMHO I'd go with the corded version.

[WildAboutHarry]

PS

I recently bought some Dewalt 18V tools (small circular saw, impact driver) and while I have not logged many hours both have performed admirably.  The saw is fine for quick cuts, and has sufficient power, but it does occasionally bind (probably operator error).  It is fine for my purposes.  The impact driver is a workhorse and really does the job. 

I am working on a site without power, so cordless is a must.

What kind of tools are you looking for?