Amazon.com Review

This is a workhorse of a saw, and it definitely lives up to theSkil name (the company that invented these saws in the first place).This latest version of the famous Skil 77 takes all the power andtorque the original is known for and packs it into a lightweightmagnesium housing, bringing it down near the weight range of sidewindersaws. Grasping it by both handles, the saw balances well, and thenotches in the shoe give a good guide for 90- and 45-degree cuts. Ithas a 2-3/8-inch depth of cut at 90 degrees, and 1-15/16 inches at 45degrees. We liked the quick blade height adjustment mechanism and theangled wrench, which helps prevent skinned knuckles during bladechanges. We couldn't feel any difference in performance between thisSkil's 13 amp motor and others drawing 15 amps. Be prepared for aslight twist when you first flip the switch, but after that, it's asmooth machine made right here in the U.S. --Kris Jensen-VanHeste ... Read more

Features

• Diamond arbor
• 13-amp motor provides 4,400 rpm
• Worm drive gearing for more power and torque
• Lightweight magnesium housing
• Push-button blade lock

Reviews (30)

Biggest , baddest , beefy,bulletproof,best bang for the buck
No body but no body builds a better saw than the people who invented the thing so long ago. Yeah , other companies make fine tools. But none better than the skill mag 77. Dewalt tried to copy the design , it was a flop. So they came up with their new hypoid framing saw that doesn't even compare for durability. Milwaukee makes an even bigger wormdrive with a 15 amp motor . It's an also ran. Makita made a super duper hypoid gear saw that stripped gears like they were going out of style. I'll admit that their new one is a lot better than the first but it's still not a skil.Unless you live on the east coast , when you drive by a construction site, 9 times out of 10 you're going to see a worm drive skil saw. There are reasons why .They are the most durable. They run the smoothest. They are the most powerful. I conducted a test of several framing saws. I ran all available wormdrive and hypoid gear saws as well as the Porter Cable blade left 15 amp saw with marathon blades down 16' 2x douglas fir as fast as I could without tripping a breaker. My partner timed me. The skil was the fastest by over a second. Then we switced places. Same result. At the time we had no preference for brand. In fact , we were hoping the new Dewalt would be the best ripping saw.With its bright yellow color and its 15 amp motor, we thought it might be. Not! The 13 amp skil blew everything away. I must say we were impressed. I continue to be to this day. The mag 77 might be heavy but not overly so. In some instances the weight is an advantage. if you are cutting close to the ground , tilt the lumber so the saw is going down. It will glide through with no effort. The length of the saw is also a plus . When crosscutting sheet goods it is much easier to go all the way across from one side without changing your position. The in line design also makes it easier to follow a straight mark on your material. The depth markings are a nice feature for a rough reference point. I have a few minor caveats though . The aluminum shoe isn't as tough as the steel on the older saw. The cords crack pretty bad just past the strain relief. I don't know of many power tool cords that don't though. I think my Bosch and Hilti cords are in tact. If you want a 15 amp motor, a blade brake, a rafter hook or a lightweight package , this is not your saw. If you want the most powerful smoothest running most durable workhorse of a saw then look no further than the skil 77 original or lighter mag 77.

Not a weekend warrior saw!
I didn't do any research when I bought this saw. I didn't have to because everyone I knew then was already using it. It is two pounds lighter than its predecessor but still a heavy saw.
I recommend the Tool hangers Unlimited 21087T Original Worm Drive Saw Hanger for this saw because it comes in handy to hang the saw on a joist or whatever. I use the same hanger on my Hitachi framing nailer.
The blade that comes with the saw last about an hour (a slight exaggeration) but that is the way it is with most blades shipped with new saws, just chuck it and you're in business.
If this is a first time saw purchase you might note that this saw has a lot of torque and actually twist in your hand and toward your body on start up if you are right handed. Not such a big deal unless you pen the guard up like most everyone does with this saw.
Dewault has what they think to be a superior saw and I am seeing it used in the trades a little now. I have tried it and I liked it but who knows if it has the durability of this saw?
The weak point of this saw is its guide or shoe if you prefer to call it that. You have to be careful not to bend it when you sit it down or load it into the van or truck. I did examine the shoe on the Dewault but it appeared to be the same weak design.
However the Mag is by far the best saw I have owned.

why would you buy something other than this
I will keep it short simple my company runs 45 - 50 of these saws every day i wouldnt buy anything other than this saw its light powerful and never dies if you keep a sharp blade and lots of oil in it

Skil HD77M
I really like this saw. The blade is on the left, it is lighter than the other wormdrive Skil makes, and I can't get it to bog down or burn up. I have a Dewalt framing saw that I have used for years and love, but I like this one better. I do recommend the saw hanger, though. It is a nice accessory. You really can't go wrong with this one.

Just Thinking
Skil cornered this market long ago, undisputed.

I would not buy any other manufacturer's 7 1/4" saw!

Remember to change the oil

... ... Read more

Features

• Two-year warranty
• 13 amp motor, 4,400 rpm
• Lightweight magnesium housing
• Push-button blade lock
• Diamond arbor

Reviews (4)

It will make you a better carpenter
This saw made me a better carpenter. Combined with a Freud Diablo II blade, this saw handles 2 x dimension lumber so easily that you can make incredibly smooth and straight cuts. When cutting a 45 degrees through a 2 x 10, I cut a straighter line cutting freehand with this saw then with a "homeowner" quality level saw and a straight edge. The reason is the even power. You can get into a very smooth rhythm of feed rate based on the saw's power. It's worth every penny.

Don't waste your money on some other saw
I own several other circ saws, including a Makita hypoid (Their name for worm drive) They don't even come close. If you can't spend the $190.00 for one of these saws buy a $50.00 black and decker and use a good Marathon blade in it, because everything else in my opinion is in the same class and you would be wasting the extra money. If it was possible to rate this saw with 10 stars I would. The black bag gets dirty easily and the saw doesn't fit with the blade installed, but who cares about that stuff!!!

The BEAST!
Like the title of my review implies, I consider this saw to be the animal of my collection. I've ripped through all types of wood with it as well as concrete slabs. It's alot heavier than a sidewinder saw, but definetly worth it's weight in gold. Here's a tip for all of you prospective buyers: Be sure and blow out all of the dust and debris that get all over the saw with some compressed air whenever you get the chance. If you don't, it will stall out on you. As long as you keep it clean and lubed, it should out live you!

Like a fine Swiss Watch
I bought the Mag-77 as a Christmas gift for our son, who is the Summa Cum Laude graduate from Auburn University's Building Science program this year. We also got him a fine Swiss pocket watch. The two go together in the craftsmanship, utility, ruggedness, and the ability to last a lifetime. The toughness of the Mag-77, stump-pulling motor, precision and light weight will be treasured for a generation. ... Read more

Features

• Two-year warranty
• 13 amp motor, 4,400 rpm
• Die-cast aluminum motor and gear housing
• All-ball-bearing construction
• Oil level indicator

Reviews (12)

Unsurpassed!
Although this little gem is quite heavy compared to other circular saws, it's power more than makes up. This thing is unstoppable! The unique handle position takes some getting used to, as it feels more like you are pushing the saw along the workpiece, but I've found the wormdrive easier to use than other saws that have the handle located more "on top" of the unit. The on/off switch is very handy too.

I did some work last winter (during a snowstorm) and the saw does turn kinda slow until the oil warms up. That got in the way for intermittent use, when the oil got cold between every cut. This was the case when I used it for cutting laminate flooring. Seems like overkill, but DAMN the cuts were clean!!
I'm a heavy DIYer and I disagree, for my case, that it's not suited. Someone who just wants to cut a two-by once in a while definitely wouldn't need this saw.

Super saws-all!
I own a Porter-Cable 15 amp (which I love) and one of these. I've had the P-C over a year and this Skil, which I just got a couple days ago, blows the Porter Cable away! I'm not a contractor, but I understand fully why contractors out West love them. This is one beefy machine with tons of power to cut anything. I tried twisting it in a cut to test it and it only slowed a little, while the P-C nearly stops! A great buy for DIY-er or professional.

Great Tool
The Skil HD77 can truely be considered heavy duty. I live in the southeast US (...where it never really gets cold...) and can say that the HD77 is unstoppable. The advantages of any worm drive saw are torque (cutting power), noise (not so much high rpm motor whine), and longevity (could outlast the owner). The primary disadvantage is weight - the saw is heavy. Skil invented this type of saw and still carries the lion's share of the market. There are other worm drive saws available, and I'm sure that they are all great, but there is something to be said for a product that has remained basically unchanged for 60+ years. If you can handle the weight, you will be more than pleased with the saw. I would buy it again - but I don't think I'll ever need to.

Can't go wrong
I bought this saw to cut some concrete to expand my patio. It
performed flawlessly and even better than expected. Even though
I'm a DIY'er you won't go wrong buying this tool.

The industry standard in Canadian construction!
I earn an income visiting construction sites. More rough carpenters use this circular saw then any other (including the Skil HD77M).

In March of this year, I bought the HD77 used ...to replace a low-end Black & Decker which was purchased new for $50 in 1981.

For DIY projects around the house, the heavy-duty, smooth operating HD77 has yet to disappoint. Initially, I had to get used to the weight and the ergonomics. The cuts were smooth with no irritating startup kickback. Plywood and sonotubes; no problem.

With the increasingly harsh Toronto area winters, the oil in the HD77 requires to be room temperature warm prior to using the saw in the great outdoors of ours.

With proper maintenance and care, this saw will be a vital and permanent tool for rough carpentry. ... Read more

Features

• Carry bag also included
• Two-speed drill/driver with built-in work light
• Full size 7-1/4" Skilsaw with carbide blade
• Reciprocating saw with Turbo-Cut
• Two batteries with charge-meter; 1-hour charger; stud finder

Reviews (5)

Maby-
I bought this kit about 3 weeks ago. Do not buy the cordless circular saw. I could only cut a pice of plywood about 20x30 inches on one charge. The drill has only 1 drawback- the cruck is strange and when you try to grab it to tighten down, it slips out of your hand. Flashlight is increadibly bright. The sawzall is nice, but my Craftsman sawzall can out perform it. This kit might be nice for a home owner, but for saws, go corded.

Hope this Helped-

saw is worthless, but everything else is great!
I bought this set just before xmas. It took a few charge cycles before the batteries held their full charge. The saw is worthless compared to anyother cordless saw, but the drill and recpricating saw are a great addition to anyones tool collection. There needs to be an ability to purchase new batteries though. Ive searched the web and not been able to find anyone who offers them.

Undecided
Tools look great and do a great job as long as the battery last but I'm not sure if these tools will satisfy someone whom will use them heavely. The circular saw claims 70 2x4s per charge, I've only used it on 2x6s and the batt only lasted for 5 of them. The sawsall eats them even faster.The flashlight is also only half as brite as my DeWalt 12v.I'm hopeful that after a few cycles the batt will increase there run time. Have not used drill enough to rule on.I might change my mind in future but right now I can neither recommend for or against buying. Tried again, batts did not last as long as the first time!

Skil Combo Tool Pack
This package sure got a lot of oohs and aahs when it showed up at GadgetGuys.com. Like the drill with the built in light, and built in stud finder. Love the soft sided case. The hard sided cases are cumbersone to carry and store. Like the energy indicator on batteries--hate starting a job when I'm up on a ladder and the darn battery dies. Full review at www.gadgetguys.com.

Undecided
I'm not sure if I should buy this set - The drill is a little under-powered (300in/lbs torque)for an 18v model. Most 18's put out around 400in/lbs. Does anyone know the circ. saw arbor diameter? It is extremely hard to find tech. info. on this set. Even the official Skil website has nothing on it. I finally hunted down a picture of this set (at Lowes website) and was disappointed to see that the circ. saw has a right side blade. ... Read more

Features

• Left side blade
• Ball bearing construction
• High torque motor
• Zero adjust foot
• Weighs only 6.5 lbs

Reviews (15)

I will never use my old heavy circular saw again
I'm not a professional contractor or woodworker. I just use my circular saw to cut plywood and sometimes 2 x 4's for home improvement projects. I bought this tool for one reason, it's light. I would have bought it from Amazon, but it was on back order for months, so I picked one up from Home Depot (and actually paid more! Tax and shipping would have been free from Amazon!)
I love this saw for a lot of different reasons. It's light. It's quiet. After I set up the saw angles, It cuts great. The motor is off to the right, so I can see the blade while I'm cutting. And it's the least expensive and lightest of all the other corded trim saws on the market. And contrary to the other reviewer, I think the mfg. quality of the saw is good.

The only problem I'm having now is finding non Skill, 5-1/2" carbide tip blades with a 1/2" arbor.

I love this little saw. I'm going to buy one for my dad for his birthday from Amazon now that it looks like they have them back in stock. (no, I don't work for Amazon, or Skill...)

It's great but it's loud!
This saw was purchased 5 years ago for its compactness to fit into a kit box. I did work in art direction & set construction on films at that time.

I'm right handed so I love having the blade on the left for visibility of the cut. Be sure to keep your left hand clear!! Saws intended for homeowners have the blade on the right for greater safety.

I found the motor housing to be in the way when using a guide to rip or crosscut plywood sheets. This was also mentioned by a previous reviewer.

My major complaint is that this saw is very LOUD compared to the equivalent Porter Cable model. (I don't know if it's just my saw - there aren't that many hours on it. ) I would probably choose the P-C if I had to do it again. BTW I do wear ear protection.

This saw's benefits are compact size, light weight and power.

the best saw ever
I was given this saw a few years ago, by my father for a christmas present. Since i'am a contractor it comes in really handy. This saw goes places where with a right handed saw, it seems to be virtually impossible. I would highly recommend this product to homeowners and contractors alike. I plan to keep mine as long as it lasts, so far for 4 years with everyday use.

I really like this saw.
I've always thought a smaller, lighter more compact circular saw would be better for the type of work that I do. Now that my saw has arrived, I realize how right I was.

This is really one easy to use saw. I bolted on a new carbide blade and found that I no longer dread jobs that call for a circular saw. I doubt that I'll ever pick up my 7 1/4 circular saw again.

This saw has plenty of power for cross cutting 2 x 8 and is very easy to control when cutting plywood panels. I appreciate the left hand blade which makes it much easier to control exactly where one is cutting. The blade guard moves out of the way easily and the entire saw, from the long heavy duty cord to the saw housing, speaks quality.

Home Depot carries 5 1/2 inch carbide tipped circular saw blades with the required 1/2 inch arbor for just under $10 so keeping myself in saw blades will not be a problem.

Still going strong after 22 yesrs.
I bought this saw 22 years ago and have used it since. I am a professional electrician and use a circular saw from time to time on the job for wood braces and supports. The saw has never been serviced or repaired. Some 7 years ago, I bought a Freud carbide blade from Home Depot. That's all I've done to it, and it keeps on going and going. When it no longer works, I'll get another. But, at the rate that it last and last, who knows when that will be. ... Read more

Features

• Left-side blade for clear view of the cut line
• Saw packs 13.0 amps of wormdrive power
• High-tech magnesium frame that is 2 pounds lighter
• Precision-machined, matched worm gear sets
• Die cast aluminum housings

Reviews (6)

Made in Mexico
Item arrived non-working closest service center is 1200 miles away no quality check done

Good Value, But a Couple Flaws
Overall I'm satisfied with this saw for the price. It does two things most circular saws can't: cuts a 60 degree bevel in 2x's, and cuts 6x's in 2 passes. The power, stability, and lack of run-out/wobble in this saw make for very nice cuts. It's a brute to handle, but so are 7 1/4" worm saws.
Unfortunately, there are two shortcomings that cost it a star. First, there are no adjustment stops for the 0 and 45 degree bevel. Second, the foot on mine is out of alignment with the blade by almost 1/8", making it impossible to cut against a rip board. I've used Skill circular saws for years so I'm not surprised - I just hoped they might have done better with this model. On the positive side, Skill stuck with a steel foot which doesn't scratch or drag on lumber and like aluminum does. The only decent aluminum foot I've ever used was the nickle plated Hitachi (which appears to have been discontinued). Wake up tool industry! We have stainless clad aluminum cookware - why can't we get a stainless clad aluminum saw foot?

A great saw
Having owned this saw for 10 years and working in construction, loghome building, and timberframing I have found this saw to be very reliable. It has the torque to power thru any wood or log necessary for the job at hand. The saw is versatile and can be used with different accessories made for it. I would definitely recommend this saw to anyone for any type of construction.

NO worries, no complaints
I'm not a very frequent user of this saw, but it's been about a year since I got this it, so I feel qualified to write a review.

I don't have much to say and that's a good thing. This saw has given me no problems and has done a great job on concrete, lumber, tree branches (no chain saw )-: ), etc. I guess it's a little on the heavy side, but I appreciate that it isn't easy to break (I've "experimented" with dropping it once or twice).

4x4 cutter ? Not!!!
First thing to know about this saw is despite what the other review says it will NOT cut a 4x4 in one pass! I was skeptical about his claim yet I bought it anyway because why would he lie? Maybe he just doesn't use the tools before he reviews them? Also this size saw has far less selection of blades in stock at most hardware stores and they cost more on average then the 7 1/4" blades.

That is the bad. On the good side this saw just feels right when you use it. The power comes up smoothly when you pull the trigger and it just purs beautifully through the wood. Though I wouldn't want to work above my head with this saw all day because of it's weight, I used it for several minutes overhead without any real discomfort.

I will keep this saw but if I had it to do again I would get the Mag 77 and enjoy the lower initial price, graeter blade selection, and slightly lighter weight. ... Read more

Features

• Fuel gauge indicator for optimal power usage
• 300 inch/pounds of torque for heavier household fastening applications
• 0-400/1,250 rpm for controlled starts and fast drilling
• 3/8" Keyless chuck for quick bit changes
• On-tool bit index for easy-access storage

Reviews (1)

Amazing Value
I've been using supercheap 18-Volt drills (Power-Craft, Aerotec, etc.) that you can get on other sites for $30. After going through 3 of them, I finally decided to go with a name-brand. The difference in quality is unbelievable, and the price difference isn't that significant when you factor in the extra battery. I'm sure that Skil doen't even compare in quality to Dewalt, Milwalkie, and the other big "professional" names, but those names are twice as much, and for my purposes, this thing is perfect. ... Read more

Features

• Short collet length for getting into tight places
• Collet automatically locks for manual screwdriving
• The forward/reverse rocker switch easily changes direction
• 180 rpm

Reviews (11)

Old battery lasted 7 years
One of the best things to mention about this screwdriver is the fact that you can't possibly over-tighten (and possibly break something) if you hold it with a soft grip. I have owned one of these since 1994 and just now have had to replace the batteries. I have two batteries to insure that the screwdriver is always ready to use. I bought a cordless drill and found that I could not control the force of the driver nearly as well as the Skil-Twist.

Great product
I have used this model Skil screwdriver since 1996, and find it superior to other brand screwdrivers I've used. The Flexicharge feature is great, since you can charge one battery while using another. All around good performance at a good price, I recommend it highly.

Great equipment
I purchased this drill because it has a on-board bit holder. I have found no other drill that has this feature. This is not mentioned in any of the other reviews.

Best tool on the shelf
I've owned a 2211 for over ten years and it's been nearly indestructable until a couple of days ago. It's fallen off ladders, been stepped on, kicked and generally abused throughout its lifetime. After giving it a proper burial, I'm buying another. I was really pleased to find out that Skil still makes the same model. Can't say that about many tools in this price range.

Great little driver
I've had this driver for about 12 years now. The battery charger(dual battery) finally died. I looked for a replacement online, finally ended up at my local Ace Hardware store. They were able to get me a new charger and two new battery's in three days. Make sure you take the part number with you when ordering as Skil makes a couple of variations of this driver. I use this driver for everything, I even have pin drill bits with the octagon shank that fit the driver. With it's inline design you can drive screws perfectly straight easily and it has sufficient power to drive em home in most material. It is the only driver that I presently own and I have yet to regret not having something heavier. As mentioned in another review you wont twist the heads off screws with it, and it allows you a good "feel" when you are using small brass or copper screws. I thought it was a good buy when I bought it and I still do. ... Read more

Features

• 7-1/4" circular saw
• 3/8" drill/driver
• 2 batteries
• Carry bag

Features

• Rear view depth adjustment
• 13 amp
• Laser guide
• Anti snag lower guard
• Safety lock-off

Features

• Fits any of Skil's cordless Flexi-Charge tools

Reviews (5)

Outlasts everything else!!
This battery outlasts everything else I've run into. Battery capacity is excellent. I've used all the other, so take it from me this one is the BEST!! I highly recommend!!

Old battery lasted 7 years
After 7 years of use, I finally had to replace my battery packs. Not bad for an item I have used almost weekly. I highly recommend these, but buy two so you always have battery power.

But it costs a lot ...
I bought a drill with 2 of those batteries. Now after 3 years
of use, the batteries have developed memory effect and have lost
all the juice. I have to buy 2 batteries that means I will be
spending around $35 total. Again after 3 years I will be in same
situation. So I have decided to buy electric drill and get over
with this charging. Also they are more powerful compared to those
drills. BTW there is always an extension cord!!!

Still the best after a year of use.
I have remodeled a three bedroom house, using this battery pack long after my buddy's cordless gives out. While I may not have a much firepower (7.2v max draw) as others, this battery outlasts everything else I've run into. I have only worn this pack down in a single day of work once, installing 3-inch screws into studs.

Best Little Battery Pack
This compact battery assembly provides excellent contact reliability in the tool and in the charger. The retention clips are easy to use and the battery capacity is also excellent. I have used all the others and this one beats the pack. ... Read more

Features

• For Skil 12 Volt Drill Models 2465-02 and 2468-02
• For use with battery 120BAT, 2610-908-162 or 2607-335-329

Features

• Soft grip
• Tool-Less blade change
• Orbital action
• Accepts T & U Shank blades
• VS switch

Features

• Collet lock 1/4" & 1/2" capacity
• 11 amp / 2 1/4 hp
• Plunge / fixed bases for smoother cutting
• Variable speed for optimal performance
• Touch activated work light

Reviews (6)

Great Price & Features, So-so design
I got this router based primarily on its low price and its many features. I wanted 2+ horsepower, variable speed, and both 1/4" AND 1/2" bit capacity. I'm not a super-experienced router user, so the reviews here helped me decide that this router, though half the price of a comparably equipped Bosch, might do the job. This despite my unpleasant experience with a Skil jigsaw, (Model #4580-04)

Upon getting the router home I installed it in a Craftsman 926608000 router table, (the laminate "Professional" model where the scale decals rub off after 5 minutes of use) I was pleasantly surprised to find that it fit the stock mounting plate without the need to drill more holes or buy an adapter plate from Sears.

My one complaint so far is that the depth adjustment when it's mounted in the table doesn't feel all that precise. It feels like it hangs up, and once you re-clamp the base clamp after making your adjustment the bit seems to change height a little. The "feel" of how the motor fits and slides in the plunge and fixed bases leaves a little to be desired.

I've since played with the depth adjustments on a couple of the more expensive routers(DeWalt, Porter Cable, Bosch) at various stores and they feel more smooth and positive. You get what you pay for, I guess.

Overall I like the router, and the many features you get for the money are impressive.

ps- don't buy the Skil jigsaw, Model #4580-04

For the price? Can't be beat.
Having not done any serious woodworking for over 20 years, I wanted to make sure I bought a decent Router, but not one that would cost an arm and a leg (just in case I didn't like the hobby). I looked at reviews on read the buyers guide in American Woodworking. Sounded like the Skil 1825 was the best combination of features and price.

Once I decided to actually sit down and read the directions and setup my workspace correctly, the router performed pretty darned well. I've done plunge routing and have had pretty good success. I've cut t-slots, stopped dados and done roundovers on a hand-held basis.

I've just finished building a router table had have the fixed-base mounted in the table. It's not so difficult adjusting the height while the router is mounted and getting the motor out is pretty safe although tedious. But the only issues I've had with this router have been due to my own inexperience/stupidity.

I got a dovetail jig for Father's Day and can't wait to start learning how to do these with the router.

The router is pretty light but the motor is powerful. Maybe some of the more expensive models have more features and more ergomic handles. Also, the little trigger lock switch is a bit difficult to get to stay in at times.

I'm looking to get a second router soon down the road as I get tired of swapping the motor in and out of the router table. I might get one of the Bosch plunge/fixed combos...but then again, I might just get two more 1825s for the same price so I can have a second freehand for general routing and one for dovetailing. If you're not doing woodwork more than on the weekends...give this puppy a looksie! :)

Can't go wrong for the money
I was in the market for a solid, functional router to use in my table and for plunge/fixed-base applications. I'm an occassional woodworker who values strong, smooth, and dependable tools. I may not use them every day (or even every week), but if I put down my money for them, they darn well better work how I want them to when I pull them off the shelf. I tend to spend a great deal of time researching a tool prior to shelling out for it. My budget is limited of late, but while looking for a router I considered the 1 3/4 HP and 2 1/4 HP models put out by Makita, DeWalt, and Porter Cable. In other words, I understand the value in spending a little more if it means I'm getting a better product.

All that being said, I'm glad I didn't win the ebay auctions I competed in for the routers listed above. Don't get me wrong: I'm not about to speak out against those big-name routers - mostly because I haven't used them. I HAVE used my Skil, though, and here's the rundown:

1) VERY convenient, simple base change operations.
2) I leave the fixed base mounted to my router table. Talk about slick. If I need a fixed-base router out of the table, I use my old Craftsman (which otherwise is idle now).
3) It's STRONG. Doesn't slow down easily at all.
4) It's smooth. Both the motor and the plunge mechanism (doesn't catch or bind when plunging).
5) It's got a comfortable, balanced, solid feel to it. Nice grips. It's light but not too light.
6) Variable speed is a must, and I found no problems with the function of it on this router.
7) The lights are nice and bright. And, unlike the bulb-style lights, the LEDs are out of the road and not a fire hazard.
8) The micro adjust is great in the table.
9) It's too bad there isn't a positive lock for the shaft. It's sometimes a pain to hold the lock and work the wrench.
10) No on-board wrench storage.
11) The cord leaves a little to be desired - just a little too stiff, and probably not long enough.

12) The case got put on a shelf, so no comments on that.

I may have missed something, but the gist of my review is this: for only $99 (and free shipping over Amazon.com), you can NOT go wrong with this router. This coming from a guy who hasn't owned a Skil product in his life until now.

Comments on the other reviews:
1) Stuck depth adjustment on the fixed base. I ran into this problem too, until I read the directions. Once you loosen the base lock, the adjustment knob works wonderfully (see #8 above).

2) Accessories. The only accessory I might want is the dust collector adaptor for each base. I'm a little disappointed they weren't included, but it's not too big of a deal. I use the dust collector on my table, so that's not an issue. As for a dust collector when routing by hand - the vacuum hoses usually create more of a hindrance/hazard than they're worth.

3) Customer support. Haven't had to deal with this. If it's really like the guy said, then that sucks. Hopefully I won't have to find out.

Good router, bad product support
I received the router combo as a gift. Finding accessories for it has been next to impossible. They released the router 6 months before the accessories came on the market. They're becoming available now so maybe it'll get better.

nice features, doesn't work, sucky customer service
The features looked great on this, and the price is obviously right. So I bought it, but it didn't work out of the box (depth adjustment on the fixed base was frozen up and wouldn't work). I called Skil and the only options they offered me were (1) to deal with the store where I bought it or (2) to send in the base (at my cost) to their regional service center for them to repair it.

Now, I don't know about you, but I expect manufacturers of power tools (particularly Bosch, which owns Skil) to stand behind their products, and this doesn't qualify! After just paying to buy a brand new router, I'm sure not going to shell out even more bucks to get it repaired! Now I'll see if the store where I bought it can help me out...

I may give the Skil one more shot, but I hope I don't end up with another dud. ... Read more

Features

• Includes two batteries, 1-hour charger, and storage case
• Detachable stud finder
• Ergonomic grip for comfort and control
• Chuck capacity up to 3/8″, keyless, single-handed
• No load rpm 0-350, 0-1250/min

Reviews (2)

Amazon.com's delayed my shipment four times
Amazon.com has delayed my shipment four times for this product. I am anxious to get it as it has good reviews, but we're onto about 6 weeks of delays now. I could have already received it had I purchased it at Lowe's or Home Depot.

Good drill, but POOR Amazon.com service on this one. I won't ever order tools via Amazon.com again. Amazon.com just can't cut it here.

Awesome Drill!
I am a homeowner/home handyman. I do a lot of projects at home, ranging from building fences and sheds to fixing the occasional lose piece of wood. I was in the market for a cordless drill to replace my corded piece of junk, and was looking at Black and Decker. Then I found Skil. This is an awesome drill, the Stud Finder is great, the "Site Light" is amazing, and the power and torque is incredible. Not to mention it's an 18 volt for 99 bucks at Lowes! I couldn't resist. The batteries last an extremely long time! All I have to complain about this drill is its case, which could be better. This is no Dewalt, but it serves my purposes. Oh, and the battery meter is amazing! I recommend this drill for anyone who is a private homeowner, but needs more power than the Black and Decker's. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Cordless convenience comes from the people who brought you the Skilsaw. The circular saw that everyone copied is powered now by an 18-volt battery that won't let you down. Skil's patented Accu-Sight makes for easy, straight cuts with unfettered visibility. They've wisely added a hoop handle for more comfort and control, too. The battery mounts on the side, keeping the tool in perfect balance, so all you have to do is guide it. The rear-view depth adjustment is a feature we like, too. It comes with a 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade and a nice carry bag. If you're a homeowner, you have to have one of these.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• UL certified
• Patented Accu-Sight keeps your cut on line
• Grip-Right handle offers optimal comfort and control
• No load speed: 3,600 rpm
• Weight: 9.8 pounds

Features

• Charges the Skil Flexi-Charge batteries
• Five hour charger

Reviews (2)

skil 2207 cordless screwdriver - battery & charger
I own (2) skil 2207 cordless screwdrivers - (2)battery & chargers for 10 years and it is the most used tool in my house.
--so when my chargers burnt out -each one in the last 2 days
It was like losing a trusted friend. After reading other reviews
about burnt out chargers I guess I was lucky to get 10 years out of my chargers--the screwdrivers have always worked great.
I guess I'll be buying a new charger now.....

Skil 92942 3.6-Volt FlexCharge Battery Charger
This little charger lasted 10 years. It performed so well that I bought two Skil 2236 cordless drill and screwdrivers and several sets of Skil 92940 batteries. I have remodeled a duplex and garage, built two sheds with electrical and gas outlets, customized interior of van for camping, and am three/quarters finished remodeling my 24x60 mobile home and built six sets of 6-step stairs with rails and storage. I use this driver, and therefore the Skil 92942 3.6v FlexCharge Battery Charger, constantly. This outfit is light weight and smaller than most and works well for this 62 year old grandmother. I recommend this charger & it's companion batteries and drill/driver. ... Read more

Product Description

9.6V - 18V, 1 Hour High Performance Battery Charger, Compatible With Battery Models 96BAT, 120BAT, 144BAT, & 180BAT. ... Read more

Features

• 7.2-18V
• Charge indicator light
• 1 hour charge

Amazon.com

Skil put some thought into this new line of drills, and there's a lot to like. A high-performance motor produces 250 inch/pounds of torque and 0 to 400 and 1,250 rpm. Unlike other cordless drills with batteries that won't budge, this one slides on and off easily with a neat fuel gauge indicator tells you how much juice is left. The keyless chuck makes for quick and easy bit changes, and the longer, two-fingered trigger is the kind we prefer. The grip's nice and soft, and the tool's not terribly heavy, so user comfort is good. We like that there are two batteries, so you'll never be out of power. A neat bonus: a bit index stores right on the drill body. Great for homeowners and do-it-yourselfers.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Comes with storage case
• Detachable bit size index
• 1-hour quick charger
• Keyless chuck makes bit changes easy
• No-load speed: 0-400 rpm, 0-1,250 minimum

Reviews (2)

Awesome Power
The guy with the gear problem had it out of gear... it happened to me twice... not quite in gear the chuck wont spin. Smart people know to check.

This is an awesome drill... powerfull and tough. I bought mine 3 years ago and while the batteries needed to be replaced recently, it is still serving me well. I am a Plumber and I use it to drill large holes in stainless steel... speed is not that much of an issue for that but torque is king for cranking large bits. I have used a grinder to make 1/2" bits fit into this drill and it will drill holes in quality stainless steel for hours.

I have used it to grind and wire-brush my front railings... speed is a key factor for that... it stands up to that challenge as well.

It has been dropped many times but it does not care... I could not live without it... if I ever need to replace it (which it seems I will not any time soon) I will get another one just like it. If you are thinking about getting one... stop thinking... get it... you will thank yourself. This drill out performs most drills of twice the cost

junk
i just received product, junk. I charged batteries fully, it did not have enough power to install stormdoor. That was using 2 batteries and still could not get the job done. My old stand by dewalt finished the job. ... Read more

Features

• 2 batteries
• Drill/Driver w Bit index
• Jigsaw w/ orbital action
• Pivoting light
• carry bag