Cordless Drill for use with Barley Crusher

[stadelman]

Thanks everyone.

I emailed the manufacturers of the Barley Crusher. He didn't give me any specific torque recommendations. He said he uses a cheap corded drill. He did recommend a keyed chuck.

[Bugeater]

A keyed chuck is a good call. I tried the other type once, but the mill makes enough vibration that it loosens up the chuck.

Wayne

[numsquat]

I bought an elcheapo corded hammer drill at work ($30 retail) and it works fine on the BC. Have also used a Dewalt cordless (no keyed chuck) which also worked fine.

[dresselbrew]

The only problem with a cordless drill is the first time you have your battery die half way through. I bought a cheap 1/2" drill for $30 for my mill till I motorized it. I would suggest a corded drill unless you just want a cordless for another reason.

[Big Tex]

I have a Barley Crusher and use a Dewalt cordless drill. The only problem I have is that it typically takes two batteries to get through grinding 15 lbs of malt. So if you go the cordless route, make sure you have a couple extra batteries ready to go.

[fermentalist]

25 dollar black and decker bought in 1980 still running--must have crushed a ton of barley by now and still running strong--keyed chuck is good.

[BeerPal]

My 18.8 volt Craftsman will run 10-12 pounds of grain through my Barley Crusher with juice to spare. Never have had to change batteries in the middle of a crush.

[Brandt]

get a cheap corded drill ($20) and a 100' extension cord. It will be cheaper, more reliable, and more environmetally friendly (toxic metals in batteries to dispose when they die).

But as far as cordless goes, +1 on the 18v. Anything else will be under-powered. A good 18v tool, battery, and charger will cost about $150-$250. Check out your home improvement stores for sales. Tool manufacturers are pushing their newer lithium batteries and the prices are starting to drop on the older tools.