|
|
|
Average Customer Review
Share your thoughts with other customers
|
|
|
The most helpful favorable review
The most helpful critical review
15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
Low End Driver that Works
Screwdrivers come in many shapes and forms. For construction, I love using a corded unit for pure power. However, it is too bulky for simple household tasks. That is where these little tools come into play, but even within this category there are some choices - traditional battery units like this one on the low end and smaller lithium ion tools on the high end...
Published 9 months ago by K. Schultz
|
› See more 5 star, 4 star reviews |
 |
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
Simple electric screwdriver. Only for the simplest screwdriver tasks
Battery:
It uses old-technology Ni-Cad batteries, rather than modern more powerful lithium ion. I'll update this review later and comment on battery life, because I haven't owned it long enough to really review that important aspect.
Features:
It does not have a torque setting like even the cheapest drill-drivers. Torque setting is present even...
Published 9 months ago by Jeffrey Stanley
|
› See more 3 star, 2 star, 1 star reviews |
|
|
15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
Low End Driver that Works, December 1, 2009
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
Screwdrivers come in many shapes and forms. For construction, I love using a corded unit for pure power. However, it is too bulky for simple household tasks. That is where these little tools come into play, but even within this category there are some choices - traditional battery units like this one on the low end and smaller lithium ion tools on the high end.
As a low end device with a price to match, my expectations were pretty low. I've had a tool like this before and it really couldn't handle much. As expected, there is only one speed, which is okay. It shouldn't be powerful enough to strip most screws, though it might break an outlet faceplate if you are not careful. Compared to other cheap drivers, this is actually pretty powerful amd left me pleasantly surprised.
Two gimmicks are included. One is a small led light that shines on the area you are working with. I found this very useful and a great inclusion is the ability to just scope out the area with the light without turning on the driver. The second gimmick is the pivot-action, which changes the driver from a pistol grip to a more traditional elongated shape. Ideally, this allows it to be used in tighter spaces. The pivoting works fine, but I find the driver a bit bulky regardless and I doubt there are many situations in which the elongated form would be needed.
Overall, this is a low end tool at a low end price. I have been quite happy with it and, presuming the battery doesn't die prematurely, would recommend it to the casual user.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
 
|
|
|
|
|
|
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
Simple electric screwdriver. Only for the simplest screwdriver tasks, November 26, 2009
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
Battery:
It uses old-technology Ni-Cad batteries, rather than modern more powerful lithium ion. I'll update this review later and comment on battery life, because I haven't owned it long enough to really review that important aspect.
Features:
It does not have a torque setting like even the cheapest drill-drivers. Torque setting is present even on sub-$100 drill/drivers. Torque setting is important to avoid stripping screws (although with the low RPM of this item, it isn't as likely). It turns slowly but does have a decent amount of torque. Switching from pistol-grip to straight is a somewhat-useful feature. There is an LED light that switches when the screwdriver is engaged, which is an incredibly useful feature (screws are frequently in tough to see areas).
It includes a two-sided driver bit with #2 phillips on one side and medium-sized slotted on the other. The bit fits into a 1/4in holder on the front. This driver does not have a chuck.
This item is perfect for a home user who only rarely needs an electric cordless driver. An electric driver is an incredibly useful device and this does the trick for 1/4 the price of a high quality small drill motor. Frequent do-it-yourselfers should consider spending more for a small lightweight drill/driver with a lithium ion battery.
It isn't the most sturdy or best performing tool around, but the price is so low that it's a great option for light consumer use.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
Rather have a drill, December 22, 2009
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
Ultimately, this is a glorified screwdriver. Personally, I would spend another 20-30 bucks and get a cheap variable-torque drill, which is much more versatile.
While the RPM is a low 180, there was enough torque to strip some of my screws (granted, they may have been cheap screws). Despite the manual stating that it can be used with drill bits, it's only powerful to drill through soft wood and the like. Since I already own a variable-torque drill, I'm having difficulty justifying the need for a this pivot-driver. The drill can do everything this guy can, albeit in a larger size and without the fancy light.
While the light can be useful, it only comes on when the trigger is pressed and the driver spinning - which makes it difficult to place on the screw. Yes, you can flick the switch to between the forward and reverse positions, then press the trigger to get just the light without the driver action. But then, you have to switch it back to get the driver spinning - annoying. A better design would be to have a dual position trigger - press halfway for light, all the way for light and driver.
Another annoyance is that, sometimes, the bit comes off the driver and sticks to the screw.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
Rather have a drill, December 22, 2009
A Kid's Review
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Ultimately, this is a glorified screwdriver. Personally, I would spend another 20-30 bucks and get a cheap variable-torque drill, which is much more versatile.
While the RPM is a low 180, there was enough torque to strip some of my screws (granted, they may have been cheap screws). Despite the manual stating that it can be used with drill bits, it's only powerful to drill through soft wood and the like. Since I already own a variable-torque drill, I'm having difficulty justifying the need for a this pivot-driver. The drill can do everything this guy can, albeit in a larger size and without the fancy light.
While the light can be useful, it only comes on when the trigger is pressed and the driver spinning - which makes it difficult to place on the screw. Yes, you can flick the switch to between the forward and reverse positions, then press the trigger to get just the light without the driver action. But then, you have to switch it back to get the driver spinning - annoying. A better design would be to have a dual position trigger - press halfway for light, all the way for light and driver.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Does a Fine Job with Household Tasks, July 23, 2010
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
When I received this item, I was not sure how capable it would be. It's looked pretty small, and I'm accustomed to handling large, powerful drills. But when I gave it a test around the house, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it works and how nice it is to use.
BEST USES
Keep in mind, this is not a drill for heavy-duty tasks like driving 3" screws into decking or anything like that. Also, keep in mind that this is only for screws. It does not have an adjustable chuck so it cannot be used for drill bits.
But it's great for these kinds of situations:
* Loosening ot tightening screws in chairs, children's toys, outlet covers, door hinges, and various household fixtures
* Assembling children's toys
* Getting into tight spots to access various kinds of screws
BASIC OPRATION AND FEATURES
The size of this unit makes it pretty convenient to hold. It's also convenient to store (it sits nicely inside a small drawer). And it's really light and easy to carry around as you're doing a task. And when you need a screw bit, one is included with a double-sided Philips and straight screw head. The bit pops into the drill easily and stores in a slot on top when not in use. In operation, this unit makes a mechanical noise. But it's quiet, and the sound probably won't bother anyone.
The forward and reverse (tighten and loosen) settings are easy to change with a small switch near the top of the handle.
CHARGING
The unit charges fairly quickly. When I'm done using mine -- even if the battery is not run down -- I plug it into an outlet in my basement. But you could just use it until the battery is run down all the way before recharging. The charger plugs into the base of the handle. The charger adapter is small so it doesn't hog up two plugs in your outlet!
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Black & Decker added a nice touch by including a flashlight around the bit to illuminate the area where you're working. It's not a really bright light, but it can help see your target in dark areas!
The pivoting option is also nice. Push an unlock button and twist the head of the unit to form a "pistol" configuration, or straighten it to resemble a fat screwdriver. Depending on the particular job, that can make a difference in ease of use. The unlock button assures you don't twist the handle accidentally.
The rubberized handle is a good idea. You won't be doing anything so heavy duty with this drill that you'll need a really firm grip, but it is comfortable to use.
CONCLUSION
If you want a small drill for general household tasks which does not take up a lot of space, is easy to use, and small enough to carry around and store when not in use, the Black & Decker PD400LG is fine.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
For any rechargeable, batteries are the weak link, March 8, 2010
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
For any rechargeable tool, batteries are the weakest link. The life of the battery determines the tool's useful life, and this unit's batteries aren't easily replaceable or interchangeable. That means in a couple of years, when the battery ends its useful life and can no longer hold a sufficient charge, this tool gets tossed. Consider instead Black & Decker's Versa-pak electric screwdrivers. The Versa-pak batteries are easily interchangeable - they simply slide in and out, and replacement batteries are easy to find in stores and online. As a bonus, you can buy a spare Versa-pak battery, keep it in the charger, and change to a fresh battery anytime during a job. Unfortunately, when the Black & Decker PD400LG runs low on charge, it's off the job. Further, as rechargeable batteries age, their ability to hold a charge will decrease, so their useful "on the job" life between charges gets shorter. I've owned two Versa-pak powered B&D screwdrivers for over 8 years, having replaced the batteries and bits 3 times each. They still work like new. The Black & Decker PD400LG, however, is designed to fail. Of course, whimsical Black and Decker can pull the plug on Versa-pak replacement batteries any time it wants.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Good Power Screwdriver for the Non- Handyman, February 22, 2010
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
Cordless screwdrivers make a nice addition to one's power tool collection, both for their convenience and for their ability to access screws in hard to reach areas. Black & Decker Next Generation Pivot Driver handles screws with relative ease. It can be used to tighten or loosed screws and its extended tip makes it easy to reach into tight quarters.
This cordless screwdriver has several good qualities that make it a respectable choice for your screwing needs. It has a few extras, like an LED light and a two- position handle that allows you to use this pivot driver in an elongated form or in drill/driver form. It also offers a comfort/rubber grip handle and a bit holder that is located right on top of the device. This latter feature is very nice because it gives you a place to store the bit so that it doesn't get lost. The bit is always right there, when you need it.
Extra features are nice, but the most important quality with any cordless screwdriver is its ability to tighten screws. Here, the Black & Decker Pivot Driver earns some positive points. First, the attachment of the bit is very simple because all you have to do is press the bit into the tip until it snaps in place. Second, this unit is good at quickly attaching screws, thereby saving your time and wrists. The unit doesn't have the power of the more deluxe power screwdrivers, but it is good enough for normal use.
Black & Decker Next Generation Pivot Driver seems like a good enough device for basic use, but it could use updates in a few areas. The light, for example, isn't very bright and what's worse is that you have to either be pressing the power button for the light to activate OR you have to move the switch to the middle position to make it activate. The latter option is the only choice you have if you want to use the light by itself and while this sounds simple enough, it can be annoying because you must move the switch to one of the other positions to use the power screwdriver. When you perform this action, there is a good chance you will move the tip and the bit will come out of its position, in the head of the screw.
Lack of much power is another area of concern. The manufacturer claims that this device can be used with regular drill bits, but considering the single speed operation and the relatively slow rpm, I don't think this pivot driver would be very useful in this situation, unless you are driving screws into very soft wood. Also, keep in mind that there is only one bit. Depending on the size and/or positioning of screws, this power driver may not work.
Cordless screwdrivers are certainly handy and they make the task of attaching screws less strenuous and less time- consuming. Black & Decker Next Generation Pivot Driver Cordless Screwdriver is a good product but with limited usefulness. It has a few shortcomings, like the single bit, the problems with the light, and the single speed. It is fine for a non- handyman like myself, but more serious woodworkers and others will probably find it lacking and too simple to consider.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Get's the important part right, February 18, 2010
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
This is a light-duty screw driver for a nice low price, so you have to be realistic in your expectations.
The Good:
The important thing, which it gets right, is that it is low speed and high torque. You'll be able to get things nice and tight without stripping the screws. It's also much lighter than normal cordless drills.
The bad:
The trigger takes up two fingers, which forces you to hold the tool with your two weakest fingers, at least when you're not pulling the trigger. It's light enough that you can do this, but it makes it a bit awkward. This could be improved with better grip on the handle, or better yet making the trigger smaller. The grip is slightly rubbery but still relatively slippery.
Using the driver in the straight configuration is also clumsy because it becomes front-heavy, which is accentuated by the way you're forced to support it primarily with your pinky and ring finger.
Other points:
The light is extremely dim and comes on at the same time as the motor, so you can't use it when you're trying to line up the bit on the screw (unless you want to constantly fiddle with the direction switch). A two-stage trigger where a soft squeeze activated the light and a harder one activated the motor would be a lot nicer. But it's a moot point without a brighter light. The light, while not very important to me, could have been nice but it appears to have been designed as a marketing gimmick rather than a useful feature.
The pivot feature is a nice option I guess but it doesn't buy you that much room. With the included bit inserted, it's 6.5" long in the bent position, and 10" in the straight position. The pivot button is ambidextrous, and it locks solidly in both positions.
At this price you certainly don't get a smart charger, so you have to remember to unplug it when it's done charging so you don't cook the battery. Also not surprisingly, there's no speed or torque adjustments, clutch or other niceties. Those only come in the higher priced tools. As is, it's not too bad for what it costs, but if they made a few minor adjustments it could be pretty nice.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Cheap and portable, but you get what you pay for, January 22, 2010
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Received this drill for Christmas and have used it for a few things since. My main verdict: don't bother.
If you plan on using this drill to put a screw into any wood or wall studs than forget it. It's marginally capable of putting a screw into drywall. Otherwise you'll find yourself rotating the drill to get the screw to turn because the torque isn't powerful enough.
If you're using this to place screws back into pre-drilled holes or hobby work then it could be pretty handy. It certainly has a smaller footprint than most drills and takes up little space on a work table. However if you're planning on hanging this on a tool wall then good luck. The form factor is such that there is no way to reliably hang this on two nails or by using a hook. The batteries are in the bottom of the handle and it causes the drill to be off-balanced. As you can see from the product's picture, there are no overhangs or planes to place a second hanging point of contact.
I'm not sure how long the battery life lasts. I've used the PD400LG about five times and it has been useless in three of those attempts. It does have a lock selector that stops the drill from working if its unprotected triggers are hit. That's useful for placing in a toolbox at least.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
Great screwdriver, December 17, 2009
This review is from: Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select (Tools & Hardware)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
I use this in the datacenter and in the office when we need to replace parts in our servers. It's a good nice; easy to handle and yet strong enough for the occasional way too tight screw.
It's nice how it can be either straight or "drill shaped".
Only complaint is that B&D seems to have different power supplies for all their products, so you have to be careful to keep them matched up.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
