Kreg has launched new 18V-class Ionic Drive cordless power tools, expanding the line they launched a couple of months ago.
The new tools include:
- Impact wrenches
- Hammer drill
- Shop blower
- Angle grinder
- Wet/dry vacuum
Kreg and their paid influencers have been hyping up the line as being tools for woodworkers.
For the new Kreg cordless angle grinder:
The Kreg 20V Ionic Drive 4-1/2″ – 5″ Angle Grinder delivers the control woodworkers need and the power DIYers depend on. With a rare six-speed gearbox, this grinder excels at woodcarving, shaping, sanding, and texturing, while still providing full performance for metal grinding, cutting, and surface prep.
“With a rare 6 speed gearbox.” I can see that being useful for woodworking, but it’s not much different from other cordless angle grinders.
Kreg also says:
Paddle operated on/off switch gives you more control and comfort than standard on/off switches
The paddle switch is for more comfort?! Paddle switches on angle grinders are often considered “dead man” type switches that disengage should you lose your grip or drop the tool, in contrast to latching sliding on/off switches. But sure, we can pretend it’s for woodworkers’ comfort, even though paddle switches are often considered less comfortable than set-and-forget slide switches.
What about the 1/2″ impact wrench?
Designed for demanding timber framing, fastening, removal, and automotive applications
Here are the tool-only launch prices:
- 3/8″ compact impact wrench – $130
- 1/2″ compact impact wrench – $130
- 1/2″ high torque impact wrench – $250
- Hammer drill – $150
- Shop blower – $90
- Angle grinder – $140
- Wet/dry vacuum – $130
Kreg also added a Blue Ion 8Ah battery pack, priced at $170, and a 6Ah battery at $150.
Here’s the full Kreg line as of the time of this posting.
I get how Kreg is trying to market their cordless power tools. But how is a Kreg hammer drill any different for woodworkers compared to hammer drills from Ryobi, Kobalt, Dewalt, Milwaukee, or others? How’s their jig saw any different?
If you’re interested, wait for prices to stabilize.
Judging from the sales and promotions that appeared a few months after Kreg’s initial launch, it seemed to me that early adopters got burnt on pricing. Maybe wait until Father’s Day to see what types of discounts Kreg will offer. Also be sure to price-shop against mainstream brands available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, and Menards.
