Recommendations for a cordless angle grinder for deck building?

Hey all, I'm planning to build a deck this summer and need to cut some steel rebar and maybe some metal flashing. I don't have a grinder yet and I'm looking for a cordless one since I'll be working in the yard. What do you recommend? I've seen some at Home Depot from DeWalt and Milwaukee, but I'm not sure which is better. Also, any tips on which discs to get?

Hey Dan! If you're going cordless, you can't go wrong with either DeWalt or Milwaukee. I've got the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2" and it's a beast. Tons of power for cutting through rebar. Just make sure you get a cutting wheel rated for metal (like a thin kerf wheel). And don't forget the guard and some safety glasses! Word of advice: get a grinder with a brake, it's a nice safety feature.

I'm with Sarah on Milwaukee, but I've also had good luck with Makita. My cousin has the DeWalt and it's great too. The key is battery platform - if you already have batteries for one brand, stick with that. Also, for deck building, you might want a grinder that has a variable speed if you plan to do any polishing or grinding on the wood (but that's not typical). For rebar, a standard single speed is fine. Oh, and get a decent set of gloves - those sparks are no joke!

I'm a bit of a tool junkie, so I've got a bunch. Honestly, for occasional use, even a corded grinder would do, but if you're set on cordless, check out the Flexvolt line from DeWalt - they have 60V ones that are super powerful if you need it. But for rebar, a 20V Max will do. Also, think about getting a diamond blade for cutting metal - they last longer. And don't forget a decent angle grinder stand or clamp to hold the grinder if you need to cut multiple pieces.

As a contractor, I use grinders daily. For cordless, I'd recommend the DeWalt DCG413B 20V MAX XR. It's compact, powerful, and has a nice ergonomic grip. Milwaukee's is good too, but DeWalt's brake is quicker. For rebar, use a specific metal cutting disc - I like Diablo's. Also, keep the guard on, no matter how tempting it is to take it off. Safety first! And if you're going to be doing a lot of cutting, consider a cut-off saw, but that's overkill for a deck.