Bosch 12V Lithium-Ion 3/8" Drill Driver (PS31-2A)

Bosch seems to make a drill driver for every occasion. Currently they have six models in their 12-volt line-up alone. The PS31-2A is one of two 3/8" versions.

It has what I consider to be the better of the two drive options, namely a 3/8" chuck. I don't mind a hex drive on an impact driver, but for convenience and speed, especially when you're frequently switching between drill bits of varying sizes, 3/8" is the way to go.

The standard 12-volt 1.3 amp-hour battery delivers good value for the dollar. You get low weight and very good run time, two critical factors in a compact drill. Plus, these batteries are relatively inexpensive to replace (about $40 each).

The PS31-2A delivers two speeds - 0-350 RPM and 0-1,300 RPM. This is a feature much preferred over a single, low speed drill. Couple with the dual speed transmission you get a single sleeve chuck with 21 clutch settings, and an impressive 265 inch-lbs of maximum torque. This really is a complete package - variable high and low speed ranges, enough torque to sink all but the largest screws and bolts, and a sensitive clutch. The chuck is plastic covered, but it does have a metal nose, making it much more durable.

Ubiquitous 12-volt 1.3 amp-hour battery

Two speed transmission

To top it off, Bosch has managed to put the PS31-2A into a very small package - 2.1 pounds, and 6-5/8" long (from the tip of the chuck to the end of the handle). As far as I can determine, it's the lightest 12-volt 3/8" drill on the market. The other impressive feature is the size of the handle. Just about every other cartridge style drill has a handle measuring approximately 2" in width; on the PS31-2A the handle is a svelte 1-3/4". This makes a big difference in comfort when you've a lot of drilling and driving to do. You also get an on-board battery power meter and LED work light (though I now consider that these should be standard features, along with rubber overmold grip handles).

Variable speed trigger, forward/reverse switch, battery fuel gage, LED light (in front of trigger)

Metal housing at the end of the chuck

The PS31-2A is very well balanced in the hand, and you can set it down on end, and it won't tip over. On both sides of the casing is a large rubber pad that protects the drill when you lay it on its side.

Protective rubber pads

Well balanced and a very comfortable grip

In use the Bosch PS31-2A is like my uncle's Clydesdale. Day-in and day-out the Clyde was the epitome of power, dependability, and durability. The PS31-2A is much the same. It's somewhat more expensive than other drill drivers in its class, but well worth every penny.

Other 12V Models:

Bosch PS30-2A (3/8" Drill Driver) Bosch PS21-2A (1/4" Hex Drill Driver) Bosch PS20-2A (1/4" Hex Drill Driver) Bosch PS40-2A (1/4" Hex Impact Driver) Bosch PS41-2A (1/4" Hex Impact Driver)

Reviewed January 2011