Power Tool Question

Got Power Tool Questions? You're in the Right Place

Not sure which drill to buy? Wondering why your circular saw keeps bogging down? We've all been there.

At Tools in Action, we’re here to help. Whether you're just getting started or you’ve been slinging tools for decades, we’ve built a community and a knowledge base that’s second to none.

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers:

Don’t Underestimate Local Wisdom

Sometimes the best advice doesn’t come from a search bar, it comes from the people in your own backyard.

Talk to your local pros. Contractors, carpenters, electricians, the folks who’ve been in the field for years. They’ve seen it all and can give you the straight answers you need.

The Hardware Store Goldmine

Skip the kid in aisle 9 who's just punching a timecard. The real value? It’s the retired guy behind the tool counter who's been using these tools longer than most of us have been alive. These guys often work part-time for the love of it, and their advice can be worth more than anything printed on a box.

Frequently Asked Power Tool Questions

Here are some of the most common questions we get and straight answers to help you out.
Want more? Head over to our Home Page for guides, reviews, and tips on everything from drills to demolition.

Faq

Can I use a different brand’s battery in my tool?

Nope. Most battery platforms are brand-specific on purpose. Even if the voltage matches, the connections won’t. Cross-brand adapters exist, but they’re not always reliable or safe. Stick with your brand’s batteries unless you like melted plastic.

Why does my tool lose power when I use a long extension cord?

You’re probably using the wrong gauge cord. Long cords need thicker wire (lower gauge number). Using a 16-gauge cord at 100 feet with a 15-amp saw? You're starving the tool and risking heat damage. Go with 10- or 12-gauge for anything pulling real power over long runs.

Why is my circular saw burning the wood when I cut?

Either your blade is dull, gummed up with pitch, or you’re pushing too slow. Clean or replace the blade and let the saw do the work. If the motor sounds like it’s screaming, you’re probably forcing the cut or your blade’s the problem.

Do I need to break in a new cordless battery?

No break-in needed. Lithium-ion batteries are ready to go out of the box. Just charge it fully the first time and get to work. No need to drain it all the way like the old NiCd batteries.

What’s the most versatile power tool to start with?

A good cordless drill/driver. It can drill holes, drive screws, and with the right attachments, do way more. Pair that with an impact driver or oscillating multi-tool and you’ve got 80% of most home projects covered.

What’s the difference between a drill and an impact driver?

A drill spins smoothly and is great for drilling holes or light screw-driving. An impact driver delivers bursts of torque (think: controlled hammering) and is built for driving screws, bolts, and lag screws fast without stripping. For heavy fastening, use the impact.

Can I leave my battery on the charger overnight?

If you’re using a modern charger from the same brand, yes, it shuts off when full. But don’t store it on the charger long-term. After it’s charged, pull it off and store it in a cool, dry spot.

What tools should I never buy cheap?

Stuff with moving parts or torque: drills, saws, grinders, impacts. A cheap measuring tape or level won’t hurt much. But a $29 circular saw will show you exactly what regret feels like. Spend where it counts.