Black & Decker PD400LG Next Generation Pivot-Driver with Smart Select

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 and 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.

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.

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.