" From: Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx> " " For you guys buying new shop tools, this applies to those as " well! Air is one of the least efficient methods of powering " tools. Electric (corded or battery) are more efficient as far as " power use. So why are air tools so prevalent? They tend to be " lighter since you don't have a heavy electric motor or batteries " to carry around. The "cord" (air hose) is a bit heavier and " stiffer though. I buy electric when the tool won't be to bulky to " use around the shop and has enough power. Has made me re-think " buying a bigger compressor, but there are some things (like " painting) that you have to have a compressor for, and once you " have a decent compressor may as well use it... even if it does " cost a bit more to operate. Air tools generally are cheaper once " you take the cost of the compressor and hose out of the equation, " but when you factor that in electrics still come out on top cost " wise. air tools can also be quite a bit more powerful than electric. ever try to pick up an electric 3/4" drive impact wrench? i don't think there even is one. this is a corollary to your weight comparison. they're also cooler, since the half the power part - the compressor - is removed from your hands. ________________________________________________________________________ Andrew Hay the genius nature internet rambler is to see what all have seen adh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx and think what none thought _______________________________________________ Amc-list mailing list Amc-list@xxxxxxxxxxxx http://www.amc-list.com/mailman/listinfo/amc-list