Which is better for building a deck?

You need both. The circular saw crosscuts and rips the boards; the drill driver drives the structural screws and lag bolts. If you can only buy one now, start with the saw, since deck boards must be cut to length.

Can I use the same battery on both?

Yes. Both are Hercules 20V lithium-ion tools sold without a battery, so one Hercules 20V pack and charger serve both.

Which has more power?

They are not comparable directly. The drill driver makes 1,200 in-lbs of torque; the saw spins a 7-1/4 in. blade at 5,000 RPM. Match the tool to the job rather than the number.

Is the drill driver worth it over a cheaper brushed drill?

Hercules claims up to 80% more power than its brushed model, plus longer runtime and a 1/2 in. all-metal chuck. Buyers rate it 4.7 out of 5 and praise the value. For occasional light use, a brushed drill costs less.

Does the circular saw cut 2x4s in one pass?

Yes. At 90° it cuts 2-1/2 in. deep, which clears a 1-1/2 in. 2x4 with room to spare. At 45° it cuts 1-7/8 in.

How long does the drill driver run on a charge?

Hercules rates it at up to 350 holes per charge with a 1 in. spade bit in pine and an 8 Ah battery. A reviewer recommends at least a 4 Ah pack for extended use.

Hercules 20V Brushless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only) vs Hercules 20V Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver (Tool Only)

These are different tools, not substitutes: one cuts lumber, the other drills and drives. Buy the circular saw if you need to break down sheet goods or crosscut framing, and the drill driver if you need holes and fasteners. Both are tool-only Hercules 20V, so you need batteries and a charger either way. No current prices were provided for either tool, so check each product page for the latest store prices before deciding.

Ask our shopping agent