That almost invariably means the need for one or more power tools. On the plus side, there is plenty of choice. The shelves of hardware stores are filled with a bewildering array of devices ...

Like Makita's battery system, each battery is sized according to the tools they power. CP is the smallest battery class, followed by XC, and finally HD for heavy-duty applications. However ...

Power tool brands have created ecosystems of tools that all work with their batteries, and the wrong choice could cost you a lot of money. Chris Wedel is a fan of all things tech and gadgets.