- Joined
- Nov 1, 2008
- Messages
- 18,787
- Location
- Bournemouth/Poole Dorset
- Car
- W210 E280 x2, w211 E55, W212 E63 biturbo, S204 C180K
Yeah, Ryobi have really improved since first entering the power tool market. They’ve addressed the cost issue that most manufacturers exploit. I do think the big 3 will be looking over their shoulder at them. The only thing that puts me off Ryobi is the quality of the batteries. But they are getting better through time.
What I will say is the after-sales service from Makita UK is exceptional. As an example I have an 18v Brushless SDS drill that had a faulty trigger. Around 6 years old, worked very hard and obviously out of warranty. I emailed them to enquire about repair costs (so I could compare against buying a new one) and they said to post it to them and they’d quote for repair.
I sent it down and received it back the very same week repaired & serviced FOC. Apparently it was a fault on the circuit board.
So, that service alone will keep me buying Makita tools in the future.
It's been my experience over the years that Makita are the #1 for power tools with Bosch and DeWalt closely behind. Hitachi are OK for 110v skillsaws.
I still have a Bridges 220/240v drill that refuses to die. Must be 50 years old after being passed down by my Dad in the 60's