You need power, but you don't want to hoist a ton. Here's the answer. DeWalt's revamped 18-volt compact drill/driver delivers on both counts, with a 1/2-inch chuck that grips beefy bits, an 18-position adjustable clutch, and a high-performance motor for the torque you need, packaged in a truly lightweight, comfortable drill. The variable speed has a high and low range for any application, and the reverse switch is right above the curved trigger for easy access. We especially like the light weight, even more so because it doesn't cost in the power department. The 18-volt trim saw is lightweight, compact and maneuvers grandly even in the tightest workspace. Don't dismiss it just because it's a 5-3/8-inch blade; it cuts a 2x4 in one pass and even offers up to a 50-degree bevel. The rip fence is sturdy for a nice, accurate cut, and blade changes are fast and easy because of the spindle lock. It's got a no-load speed of 3,500 rpm, and even at 45 degrees, you're getting a 1-1/8-inch depth of cut.

The reciprocating saw is just a blast, especially if you're used to dragging a corded model around, into basements and up ladders. It's plenty powerful, too, whether you're cutting into wood or metal. We like the keyless clamp for quick, simple blade changes and the electric brake for the time it saves.

The flashlight's wide-angle beam lights up your workspace, whether you're up in the rafters or in the crawlspace. The head pivots a full 90 degrees, and the Xenon bulb illuminates with strong, bright white light. It's got a decent enough run time of about three hours on a charged battery, and the bulb will last about 110 hours.

In all, this is a fantastic buy for the contractor or the ambitious do-it-yourselfer.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste