Best impact driver for building a deck?

Hey all, I'm planning to build a 12x16 deck this spring. I need a new impact driver - my old Ryobi is on its last legs. I've been looking at the Makita XDT16 or the Milwaukee M18. Which one would you recommend for deck screws? I don't need a full kit, just the tool.

Go with the Makita XDT16 hands down. I've been a pro deck builder for 15 years and that thing is a beast. The auto-speed mode is perfect for decking - it starts slow to seat the screw then hammers it in. Plus the 3-speed settings let you dial it in. I've had mine for 2 years and it's still going strong. stay away from the Milwaukee if you want reliability.

I gotta disagree with Mike a bit. The Milwaukee M18 is also solid. I use it for automotive stuff but I've helped buddies with decks and it ripped through hardwood screws no problem. The One-Key feature is nice for adjusting settings. But yeah, you can't go wrong with either. Have you considered the DeWalt DCF887? Also a contender.

For deck screws you want precision more than raw power. The Makita XDT16 has a better trigger control - I use it for cabinet work too. Milwaukee tends to over-torque sometimes if you're not careful. Go with the Makita.

Makita all the way. I don't care what anyone says, Japanese engineering beats American junk. The XDT16 has the best balance of power and size. Milwaukee is overhyped. Plus Makita's battery system is way better if you already have other tools. Get the kit with two 5Ah batteries - you'll need them for a whole deck.