AEG BSB18G and BS18G

[scot-canuck]

So as mentioned elsewhere I was given the AEG BSB18G Combi drill and BS18G Drill Driver Kit for Xmas
The kit comes with the 2 aforementioned power tools, BL9618 30 minute charger (which also does 12v and 14.4v AEG tools) and a cordura carry bag and all packed in a nice cardboard box. Both tools are 18v and use the global battery system, which matches several other AEG cordless tools and also some milwaukee tools.
Batteries in the kit I bought are 2 x 1.5Ah Li-Ion batteries, but the kit also comes in a Ni-cad variant with 2 x 1.4Ah Ni-cads, the batteries slide into the tool on rails and lock into place.
To release push both of the tabs situated on the left and right side of the battery. I prefer this over the push in type batteries as they feel more secure and the battery cant fall down as its on rails.
Both tools feel solidly built, have 2 speeds ( 0-400rpm and 0-1600rpm), all switches have a nice strong positive action and feel like they will last.
The combi drill has 24 torque settings, and the mode (drill, screwdrive or hammer) is set seperately from the torque, which is handy)
The drill driver has 22 torque settings and a further drill setting.
Both tools are well balanced, the Li batteries are noticably lighter but even with the ni-cad batteries the tool isn't arm breakingly heavy.
The tool grips and the bottom of the batteries are rubberised, lowering the chance of the tool slipping off of a smooth surface.
Noise levels aren't too bad, a little vocal at top pelt but nothing ear damaging.
Both chucks are "fixtec" keyless and only need one hand to loosen or tighten, metal centres and plastic exterior (The higher grade BSB18 has an all metal chuck and more torque)
Not sure what else to say really, same parent company as Ryobi and Milwaukee, but I would say it feels more solid than the Ryobi cordless I looked at, plus it was cheaper due to an xmas deal.
For heavy DIY use I would give this set 10/10 especially at £129 for everything mentioned above, plus it comes with a 3 year warranty (you do need to register it with AEG to qualify, but its a painless process to do)
Oh and batteries are reasonable too, A 3Ah Li battery was being advertised for around £67+postage by ITS online recently, with a 1.5Ah for around £64+ postage so prices for batteries are not too horrific. I have also seen a 2Ah Ni-cad for around £35 plus postage from another supplier.

[big-all]

great review thank you

look forward to a heavy use review

[thescruff]

I like AEG, both of these are over 40 year old and work well.

[scot-canuck]

Oh meant to say,
From what I've read AEG make tools in both China and Germany, mine are German made and feel proper German quality, not so sure of how the Chinese made ones are, might be something to look out for.
Also the Aussies seem to rate these quite highly, from reviews I've read online, seems they do stand up quite well to trade usage, and the price point makes them worth a try.
Also the "new" orange AEG seem better made and designed than the old blue AEG tools, slightly smaller and more ergonomic.
I have my eye on the Impact driver but can't justify the ~£90 naked price, nor the ~£200 with 2 x 3Ah batteries
Anyone at AEG want to lend me one to review?...thought not