Folks, This is an important heads up about a tsunami of counterfeit power tool batteries. Project Farm just did a video about this: Dewalt, Makita and Milwaukee batteries have all been copied in excruciating detail. They are listed on Ebay and Amazon as "100% authentic", however, the giveaway is when they are priced 1/3 to 1/2 that of what Lowes or HD is charging. Dewalt's site is awash in one-star reviews of batteries that are dying instantly or catching fire. People bought them thinking they were authentic Dewalt batteries but they are actually knockoffs. It looks like the safest place to buy power tool batteries is from a big box store as they keep a tight leash on their supply chain. Yes, the batteries will come with a much higher price than Ebay or Amazon but at least they will be legit.
There are many out there who think they are getting over when they pay 1/2 price. Not necessarily the case. My tool batteries come from manufacturer warehouse thankfully. Have to say, I own several batteries from two different manufacturers that are minimum 4 years old and so far they are all still kicking. I do have one that is suspect though.
Good post...saving a couple bucks, only to have your house burn down is not so attractive! I have noticed that they are copying OEM auto parts now too...like I bought some Honda parts on ebay that were marketed as OEM, pics showed them and the packaging, it was all pretty convincing, but the price made me suspect...it wasn't something that was a big deal, as even the oem parts weren't that hot, so likely aftermarket would be at least as good. Someone mentioned that there are knockoff NGK spark plugs are out there now too...grrrr...
All of my Dewalts have come from Lowes. Although I got a used 8ah with a nail gun purchase recently. Seems to hold a charge well. I have heard of this and if a deal is too good to be true it usually is.
apparently this has been an issue for years now. IIRC i bought batteries on eBay a few years back and they barely held a charge. Seller accepted return without issue. I miss the good old days when all they counterfeited was money!
