Building a Deck - Need Drill Advice for Long Screws

Hey all, I'm about to start building a 12x16 deck in my backyard. I'll be using 2x6 and 5/4 decking, and I'll need to drive a lot of 3-1/2" screws for the framing and 2-1/2" screws for the decking. My old cordless drill just can't handle it, strips out all the time. Should I get an impact driver or a high-torque drill? I want something that can also do some light mixing and maybe drilling into concrete for the posts. Budget is around $200. Any advice?

Hey Dan, for a deck that size, you're gonna want both an impact driver and a drill, but if you can only get one, get the impact driver. It'll drive those long screws without stripping and it's easier on your wrists. For concrete, you'll need a hammer drill anyway, so consider a kit that has a hammer drill and an impact driver. Many brands sell them together. I've used a DeWalt 20V Max combo and it's been solid for years. Also, get a good set of hex shank drill bits for the pilot holes in the concrete. Drive on!

I'll second what Larry said. An impact driver is essential for deck screws. Those long ones will bog down a standard drill, but an impact driver will zip 'em in like butter. For concrete, you might be better off renting a hammer drill for the post holes, or if you're going to be doing more concrete work, invest in a rotary hammer. But if it's a one-off, just use a corded hammer drill—they're cheap and effective. Also, don't neglect a good level and speed square for the layout. You want that deck straight!

I know you guys are all about DeWalt and Milwaukee, but I've been a Makita guy for 15 years. Their sub-compact impact driver is a beast, and the battery lasts all day. For the budget, you could get a Makita XT269M combo with the impact and drill, but that might be over $200. You could also just get the bare tool and use your old batteries if you have any. As for mixing, get a paddle mixer and drill a few holes in it to reduce the load. Yeah, I overthought it too much. Just go with the impact and a quality bit set. You'll be fine.

Thanks guys! Looks like an impact driver is the way to go. I'll probably get the Dewalt combo with the hammer drill since I might do some concrete anchors. Appreciate the advice, and I'll be sure to post pics when I'm done!