Black & Decker DR250B 5.2 amp 3/8-inch VSR Drill/Driver with Storage Bag for $29.97 and Free Shipping

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# Powerful 5.2 amp motor; zero to 1,500 RPM variable speed
# Compact enough to angle-inch to hard-to-reach areas; keyless chuck for effortless bit changes
# Dimensions: 14.1 x 8.5 x 4.1-inches (WxHxD); weighs 6.7-pounds; 2-year warranty
# Includes one double-ended screwdriving bit and storage bag

Looks like good overall ratings and usually sells for about $40+

I am passing it up based on this review @ Amazon:

AmazonReview said: bought this based on its low price but I had to return it immediately because of a problem with the chuck. I bought a comparable corded 3/8 inch drill of the DeWalt line (D21008K) instead-- more expensive but clearly money better spent, in retrospect.

As an example, look at the chuck's outer rings (where I had a problem): it is made out of plastic. The DeWalt version is aluminum there, feels more mechanically rock solid, and it is thoughtfully larger in diameter (so you can clamp/unclamp with a higher gripping torque). (The DeWalt has a higher rated power-- but I'm just comparing how trustworthy the designs are.)

At about $30 for this Black and Decker I think you get what you pay for-- it otherwise looked fine, and I'm giving it the benefit of the doubt for the rest.

I bet it is good for light use, but I want something a little more medium/heavy duty.

Here was another good review:

AmazonReview said:If you want a tool for basic household use, like putting up mini-blinds, assembling furniture, etc, then this is the drill for you. It's terrific for all but heavy-duty construction use. Light and easy to handle, with a nifty little carrying back. Drill bits change out easily. Works as an electric screwdriver with a changeable bit for either flathead or Phillips that stores neatly in the head of the drill. Inexpensive, light and easy to handle, this makes a perfect gift for someone setting up a new house or starting that first toolbox.

This is what I have, and for $10 more I'd definitely recommend it. It is more powerful, has a removable metal chuck that quickly comes off to expose a driving bit, so you can drill your pilot hole and quickly drive the screw without removing the bit.

msapute said:would .8 amp make that much difference?

Likely the metal chuck makes it stronger. My cordless drill has a plastic chuck and it is all chewed up already.