By David Robinson • Updated March 24, 2022
Screwdrivers and other tools in the Black & Decker home power‑tool range rely on the 3.6‑volt VersaPak battery. The battery is available in two variants, each with distinct specifications.
The silver model delivers a nominal 3.6 V at 1.2 Ah, while the gold version offers 3.6 V at 2.0 Ah. In everyday use, the gold battery typically lasts about 1.5 times longer than its silver counterpart.
The silver battery uses nickel‑cadmium chemistry. With the Black & Decker VP130 or VP131 chargers, a full initial charge takes six hours; subsequent recharges range from three to six hours. The larger VP160 charger reduces the time to approximately one hour per battery.
The gold battery also employs nickel‑cadmium chemistry. Using the VP130 or VP131, the initial charge requires nine hours, and later charges take between six and nine hours. The VP160 charger brings the recharge time down to about one and a half hours.
