Deck Build - Corded or Cordless Drill?

Hey folks, finally got the go-ahead to rebuild my deck. Gonna be using a lot of 2x6s, maybe 300 screws or so. My old corded drill is on its last legs. Should I get a cordless combo kit or stick with corded? I've got a tight budget, but I want something that'll last. What do you guys recommend?

If you're driving deck screws all day, cordless is the way to go. I've been using Makita 18V for years - the brushless ones have plenty of torque and the batteries last. You'll want an impact driver too, not just a drill. Trust me, your wrists will thank you. Go with a combo kit, maybe on sale. Spend a bit more for quality, it'll pay off.

I agree with Mike on the brushless. I'm all DeWalt, but honestly any of the big three are fine. For a deck, an impact driver is a must. I'd also suggest getting a drill with a clutch so you don't strip the screw heads. And if you're on a budget, consider refurbished - I've had good luck with those.

What about torque? I'm new to this - I bought a cheap corded drill and it couldn't even drive a screw into a stud without stripping. Would a cordless impact driver be better for that? I'm planning on building a shed later.

Gary, an impact driver is night and day different. It uses impact action to drive screws - it has way more torque than a regular drill. Even a cheap one will leave that drill in the dust. For a shed, you'd want at least a 2-speed driver, maybe 18V. And get spare batteries - you'll need them.