Hilti DSH-P Integrated Self-Priming Water Pump

When I hear the name Hilti, the first thing that comes to mind is a leader in the world of concrete tools and fastening.  We recently had the opportunity to attend Hilti’s 2017 media event.  

At the event, Hilti released their DSH-P Integrated Water Pump System.  The DSH-P eliminates the need for a pressurized water source to control the dust when cutting concrete.  The pump is designed to work hand in hand with the Hilti DSH 700-X and 900-X gas powered cut- off saws.  It is self priming and is powered by the saw.  

The greatest thing about the DSH-P is the portability it provides.  You are no longer limited to the length of hose for your water supply.  All you need is a bucket of water to provide dust control to your cuts.  It has the ability to pull a maximum of 5 feet of lift through the 10 foot hose that is included in the kit.  The DSH-P attaches to the drive of your saw by replacing the rear cover.

Just like the Hilti gas saws, the DSH-P is available as a Hilti fleet item, which means a 1 year no questions asked, repair coverage. The best part is Hilti offers 1 day repair turn around.  

The DSH-P Integrated Water Pump System eliminates the need for a pressurized water source to control the dust when cutting concrete, this is going to allow contractors who would normally dry cut work safer, with less airborne dust.We need to start thinking about concrete dust now, more than ever. It’s time to implement Silica controls:

Silica has been called the “New Asbestos”, and the U.S. Department of Labor and OSHA have issued rulings on reducing the permissible exposure limits for workers in our industry. These regulations go into effect on the 27th of September. As a measure of the seriousness of this airborne contaminant, OSHA has reduced the exposure limits to one-fifth of the existing amounts. These new exposure limits are 50 micro-grams per cubic meter over an 8-hour shift.

If you fully and properly implement the engineering controls, work practices and respiratory protection outlined, you are within compliance with the new regulation.

Get real familiar with the tools you are using! You are compliant if you follow the guidelines of Table 1. But you should know that the regulation puts a solid responsibility on both you and your tool manufacturer. For in each Table 1 Work Practice Control Method is the following language:

“Operate and maintain tool in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.”

The DSH-P Integrated Water Pump System was just one of several new releases from Hilti this year. Stay tuned to Tool Box Buzz for more updates on the 2017 Hilti Media Event.

Hilti DSH-P Integrated Water Pump System is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Dewalt 20 volt 18 Guage Narrow Crown Stapler Review

Dewalt 20V Max DCN681 Brushless 18G Narrow Crown Stapler

4/5

Manufacturer: Dewalt
Model number: DCN681
Price: $299
Power source: 20V Brushless
Weight: 5.7Lbs.

Let’s say you show up to a job site in the morning to start a large interior renovation project.  One of the first things that needs to get setup is that heavy, bulky, and noisy air compressor, along with all those hoses that cause tripping hazards and always seem to be tangled up with something.  Now imagine that same project getting done with no compressor. 

Dewalt has recently expanded their cordless nail gun line with the addition of an 18G brad nailer, crown stapler, and flooring stapler.  When Dewalt offered us the opportunity to take the new 20V Max DCN681 XR Brushless 18 GA Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler out to our job site, we just couldn’t resist.

First Impression

When I first grabbed the Dewalt 20v 18G Narrow Crown Stapler I thought it was a little bulky and top heavy.  After using it for awhile, I noticed that although this is true, it didn’t really cause any extra fatigue.  It sits great in your hand and is actually well balanced when it has a battery pack in it.  The housing is an all plastic design with rubber molded edges for protection.

No More Gas

Cordless nailers in the past often required some form of a gas cartridge for power.  One of the biggest problems with these nailers is the required cleaning and maintenance to keep them operating well.  Most carpenters are just to busy to take the time to keep up on them, often resulting in nail gun failure.  The Dewalt DCN681 not only cuts the compressor and hose, but it cuts out the use of gas as well.  It operates on solely battery power, eliminating that pesky extra maintenance.

Performance on the Job Site

 One of the projects I used the Dewalt DCN681 for was to install sidewall shingles on a dormer that was along a 12 pitch roof.  The fact that we were able to cut out the hose while working on staging is awesome.  No worries of any extra tripping hazards. 

Another project I used it for was to build a couple of built- in cabinets.  I used the Dewalt 18G Narrow Crown Stapler to fasten the back of the cabinets together.  I placed it in sequential fire mode and was easily able to fasten the plywood on with no issues. 

One of the biggest questions we get about these cordless nailers is can they keep up with a pneumatic gun?  In my opinion, yes it can, depending on the circumstances. There wasn’t a single time where I felt like the Dewalt DCN681 couldn’t keep up with my pace.

The contact firing mode or “bump fire” is great for fast paced fastening.  However, I can see a situation where maybe it is being used to staple down flooring underlayment.  In that situation, I’m not sure that it would compete with a pneumatic gun.

Fasteners

The Dewalt DCN681 fires 18G 1/4” narrow crown staples ranging from 1/2” to 1 1/2”.  The magazine holds one full rack of staples.

Ergonomics

As with all of Dewalt’s tools, the Dewalt 20V Brushless 18G Narrow Crown Stapler features that amazing rubber molded grip that feels great in your hands.  In my opinion, Dewalt has the most comfortable tool grip on the market. 

Dewalt placed the depth adjuster on the right side of the gun.  I really liked how it is larger than most guns making it easier to adjust, especially with a gloved hand.  There is a large adjustable belt hook that can be swapped to either side for user preference.  The release to open the magazine is also perfectly sized and easy to release, making reloading quick and efficient.

The Dewalt DCN 681 has a weight of 5.7Lbs.  The gun does feel a little top heavy.  With that being said, I personally didn’t find it to be an issue during prolonged use.

LED Lights

One of the first things I noticed was the two LED lights.  They are set down at the base of the gun just above the battery pack.  There is one on each side.  There is a small amount of shadowing noticeable around the tip of the gun but they do light up the work area well in low light situations.  

Firing/ Operation

The Dewalt 20V Brushless 18G Narrow Crown Stapler features a firing mode selector located at the base of the gun between the grip and the magazine.  This switch selects between sequential firing mode and contact firing mode.  I found the switch to be very tough to move.  Even after using the tool for awhile, it didn’t seem to loosen up at all. 

The DCN681 has a narrow tip making it super easy for fastener placement.  Two spare tips are also attached to the side of the gun near the depth adjuster. 

It has a bottom loading magazine making it easy for reloading or clearing jammed fasteners.  The release on the magazine is spring loaded which is great for quick and efficient reloading. 

Located on the top of the gun is a release that quickly resets the driving blade in the event of a jammed fastener.  This is an awesome tool free design that will get you back to production quicker.

We fired a full box of 2000 1 1/2” narrow crown staples through the Dewalt DCN681 without a single jamb.

Cost

You can purchase the Dewalt 20V Max Brushless 18G Narrow Crown Stapler as a bare tool or a kit. The kit includes 1 2.0aH 20V Battery, 1 Charger, and 1 Kit Bag. 

Bare Tool- $249

Kit- $299

Overall Impression

I am going to give the Dewalt DCN681 18G Narrow Crown Stapler 4 out of 5 stars.  It is a well operating gun that performed every task we put to it flawlessly.  I would like to see Dewalt take a look at the firing mode selector switch and make that operate a little easier.  I am very impressed with the speed it is capable of firing staples at.  It has definitely found a home in our truck for good. 

The Dewalt 18G Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler is an addition to Dewalt’s expanding cordless nailer line.  To take a look at another cordless finish gun, check out Rob’s review on the Cordless 15G Angled Finish Nailer.  Dewalt has done an amazing job at expanding their 20V Max line and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

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Dewalt 20V DCN681 Brushless 18G Narrow Crown Stapler is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Diamondback Tool Belt Denali Rig Review

Diamondback Toolbelts Denali Set

5/5

Manufacturer: Diamondback
Model number: Denali
Price: $355.00
Power source: -
Motor size: -
Weight: 5.85Lbs.

Most carpenters consider their tool belt as an extension of their body.  It’s where these craftsman keep their tools that help them complete their day to day tasks.  Every tool has it’s own home within our tool belts and we can reach down and grab them without even looking.  As with all of our tools, tool belts can take quite the beating on job sites day in and day out.  Diamondback Toolbelts have developed a belt that can definitely outstand the rigors of the construction world.  When they asked us if we wanted to try out their Diamondback Tool belt, Denali Toolbelt Set, we couldn’t resist. 

Diamondback Tool Belt – First Look

As soon as I pulled the Diamondback Tool belt Denali Set out of the box, I could tell this was a belt that was built with longevity and durability in mind.  The Denali set includes the Diamondback Belt, Elias Pouch, and the Wrangell Pouch.  An optional hammer holder and flat bar holder can also be added.  The Denali set includes a total of 13 pouches and 4 holders.  I was extremely impressed with how the Denali set felt when wearing it.  It sits very comfortably along your sides, doesn’t feel bulky and sat nice and close to my body, without sacrificing storage.  All of the pouches are easy to grab without having to bend over or reach for. 

Dupont Cordura

Diamondback constructs their tool belts out of a product called Cordura, made by Dupont.  Cordura is a collection of fabrics, mostly nylon, which are woven together to form a strong durable material.  It is often found on backpacks, and luggage.  It is also heavily used in the U.S. Military.  Most of the military’s gear specs are based on Cordura brand specifications.  It is known for it’s resistance to tears, abrasions, and scuffs. 

Durability

Diamondback uses a triple layer sandwich type construction with the Cordura for all of their pouches.  I tested the belt in the remodeling setting.  Some of the tasks I completed while wearing the Denali Set were finish trim, hardwood flooring, framing, and a major demolition project.  The Diamondback Denali set made it through all of these tasks without a flaw.  I couldn’t find any tearing, pulled threads, or scratches on it.  One great feature I love about the Cordura fabric is that it is water resistant.  This makes it very easy to rinse off and keep clean.  The belt design of the Denali is new from Diamondback this year.  It features an all nylon outer layer, keeping Diamondbacks theme of long lasting and durability in play.

Elias Pouch

The Elias Pouch is a great pouch for the small tools.  It features a total of 6 pouches plus a pouch that’s perfect for nail sets.  It also has two holders attached.  I used the smaller holder for a small cat’s paw.  The main part of the Elias Pouch includes a pocket for your tape measure or chalk line, speed square holder, and three other open pouches that are perfect for tools like your knife, pliers, torpedo level, and small chisels.  The last pouch on the Elias features a velcro cover.  I found this pouch to be the best spot for my cell phone.  It is big enough to fit a large smartphone with a case on it.  My Elias Pouch is right side oriented and that’s where I keep my hammer holder as well.   

Wrangell Pouch

The Wrangell Pouch also features six pouches plus two holders.  It has the same pocket near the top as the Elias which is perfect for your tape measure or chalk line.  The upper most pocket is a drill holder.  I am able to comfortably fit an 18V impact gun with an extension attached with no issues.  The gun fits with no movement or risk of it falling out.  The next pocket down has three slots in it which are perfect for screwdrivers, trim bars, or chisels.  The last three pockets are open pouches that are perfect for your screws, nails, and other fasteners.  The Wrangell Pouch also features the same small and large holders as the Elias Pouch.

I attached the optional flat bar holder to the Wrangell Pouch.  This is a great way to comfortably carry a flat bar without having to worry about it scratching finished materials with it sticking out of a regular pouch.

Belt/ Cobra Quick Release Clip

Diamondback has designed their belts to provide proper back support and to evenly distribute the weight of the belt on your waist.  Diamondback’s new design for 2017 features a Nylon outer layer with a Weathermax inner layer.  It is the middle of summer here in New England with those long hot and humid days and I never felt like the feel of the belt on my waist was uncomfortable. 

The belt also features pre-attached loops to connect a set of suspenders to.  The pouches attach to the belt by using a velcro latch system that Diamondback claims is rated for 675Lbs.  This quick release system makes it very simple to interchange pouches with the same belt. 

The Denali Set also has an option of getting the Cobra Quick Release Clip.  It is an all metal clip that simply clicks together, similar to a seatbelt.   To unclip it you simply squeeze the two latches together.  This feature makes the Diamondback belt super easy to take on and off.

Hammer Holder

I used to always keep my hammer on the back of my old rig in the center of my back. The optional hammer holder (which I highly recommend on purchasing) keeps the hammer on the front of your pouch, therefore, making it easier to grab and place back in to the pouch.  Having the hammer holder on the front also reduces on twisting motions needed to reach around for your hammer.  Furthermore, for those guys and gals that like to carry a second hammer or small rubber mallet, there are a total of three spots on the Denali Set that can hold a hammer.

Customization

When I say the hunt for a comfortable toolbelt is over, I mean it.  I tested the Diamondback Toolbelts Denali Set with the 6 inch belt, and it is by far the best belt I have worn to date. 

Diamondback  offers different options for the Denali Set that you can choose from to make this rig exactly the way you want it.  With the belt, you can choose the size that fits you best, thickness of the belt, color, and the buckle.  Once you have your belt squared away, you can choose which side you want each pouch to be positioned for.  Like the belt, you have the option of four colors, black, red, blue, and ranger green. 

There is also an option to upgrade your pouches to the XL size.  Diamondback states on their website that the XL pouches are about one inch wider at the base than the standard pouches.  You can also add on the optional hammer and flat bar holders, and suspenders. 

Overall Impression

I’m giving the Diamondback Toolbelts Denali Set 5 stars.  I am very pleased with the performance of the Denali Set and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great rig that has plenty of options for tool storage.  There wasn’t a single time where I felt like it was in my way or to bulky to be wearing.  Weighing in at only 5.85 Lbs. empty, it is an extremely comfortable belt to wear.  The belt itself sat perfectly on my hips and has just enough support in the lower back to not feel like it’s straining you all day.  I did not test the Denali Set with a pair of suspenders but I’m sure they would make this belt feel weightless.  There aren’t any spots in either pouch that weren’t reachable at any time. 

Cost

You can purchase the Diamondback Toolbelts Denali Set starting at $355.00 on Diamondback’s  website. Note – The tool rig [set] that we reviewed with add-on options costs $440.

Final Thoughts

If you have been searching for a comfortable tool belt that features plenty of storage and long lasting durability then stop here and go get yourself a Diamondback Toolbelt.  I honestly could not find any downfall to the Diamondback Denali Toolbelt Set.  My only word of advice for a future purchaser is if you carry quite a few tools during your work day, invest in the suspenders to go with them.  The design of the belt matched with a set of suspenders will by far make the Denali Set the most comfortable tool belt you have owned.  

Diamondback Tool Belt is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Bosch HDH183B Brute Tough 18V Brushless 1/2″ Hammer Drill/ Driver

Bosch Brute Tough 18V Brushless 1/2" Hammer Drill/ Driver

5/5

Manufacturer: Bosch
Model number: HDH183B
Power source: 18V Li- Ion
Motor size: EC Brushless
Weight: 4.1Lbs.

Let’s say you need to drill a few quick holes in some masonry. A small project that doesn’t necessarily need that big bulky corded hammer drill that’s collecting dust on your shelf. Problem is, you don’t have any other options. Well Bosch has your solution. They recently released the new Bosch 18V EC Brushless Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill Driver and we took it out to the job site to see how well it performs. No surprise to us, we could tell Bosch provided yet another well designed and built tool.

Specifications

Battery: 18V Lithium Ion
Chuck Capacity: 1/2” Keyless Chuck
Length: 8.03”
Width: 2.5”
No Load RPM: 0-2,100
No Load BPM: 0-31,500
Torque (In.-Lbs.): 663

Features

The Bosch 18V Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver features Bosch’s EC Brushless motor which Bosch claims will deliver 663 In.-Lbs. of torque and a no- load bpm of 0-31,500. Bosch upgraded the chuck to an all metal design which in my opinion puts the “tough” in the name. Bosch integrated their Electronic Motor and Cell Protection which protects both the tool from damage and the operator from injury.

Power

All I can say about the power that the Bosch 18V Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver produces is “wow”. We drilled six 1/2” holes into solid concrete footings for deck anchors that were 5” deep. It powered through the task with no major problems. While drilling the final two holes, we did experience the drill struggling to finish the holes down around the 4” mark for depth. The Electronic Motor and Cell Protection kicked in and shut the motor down, preventing damage to the tool or possible operator injury from arm or wrist twisting. We simply pulled the bit out and restarted each hole, finishing the task without issue. Keep in mind, we drilled these holes consecutively, without giving the Bosch 18V Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver a chance to cool down.

Safety

One of the biggest dangers when using hammer drills is injuries to the arm or wrist caused by twisting from the torque of the drill when it catches a tough spot in the hole it is drilling. This often happens unexpectedly and very quickly, giving the operator little or no time to release the trigger in order to prevent injury. Bosch has integrated their Kickback Control in the Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver. The tool has an integrated sensor that shuts the tool down when it senses any dangerous rotational torque that may occur in a bind- up situation.

Ergonomics

Bosch uses their Brute Tough design for the construction of the HDH183B. It’s only 2.5” wide, 8.03” long, and weighs in at 4.1Lbs. without the battery. The grip fits very comfortably in the hand of the operator and we felt it was extremely well balanced for a cordless hammer drill. In the past we have noticed most cordless hammer drills can tend to be “top heavy”. This is not the case for the Bosch Brute Tough 18V Hammer Drill/ Driver.  Bosch provides the user with a great belt clip. In my eyes, there’s nothing more frustrating than a belt clip that doesn’t fit on your tool belt. The clip on the HDH183B is not only wide, but also longer, making it very easy to clip onto your belt. When using the Brute Tough 18V Hammer Drill/ Driver with Bosch’s Core 18V 6.3aH battery, we found it to be “bulky”, especially when hanging off a tool belt. Even with the bigger battery, it is still a well balanced and easy to control drill.

LED Light

Just like its baby brother, the Bosch Brute Tough 18V Drill/ Driver, it features one LED light that shines from the base of the drill. The angle of the light is perfect, eliminating any shadowing that could make your task tough in low light situations. The light remains on for 10 seconds after releasing the trigger.

Auxiliary Side Handle

Bosch also provides an accessory side handle, providing even more control when operating the drill. We found the handle to be very simple and easy to install. The handle also features a depth gauge for those drilling situations that require precision depths.

Chuck/ Clutch

Just like the new Brute Tough 1/2” Drill/ Driver, the HDH183B features an all metal chuck and a clutch with 25+1 settings. The clutch operates very smoothly. It has a knurled texture on the base of the chuck, making it easy to grip when adjusting. We did not have any issues with any unwanted loosening of bits. We tested using both straight shank bits and SDS style bits.

The clutch operates flawlessly as well. It’s very easy to adjust and the settings are easily viewable. Having 25 settings makes it a great driving tool when precision is necessary. One issue we found is when the side auxiliary handle is on the tool, the imprinted arrow that identifies which setting the clutch is set to is covered. This can make it difficult to select a setting if you are not sure where that arrow is.

Speed/ Mode Selectors

The Bosch Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver features two switches on the top of the tool. One selects between speeds one and two. The other selects between three different modes, driving, drilling, and hammer drilling. Both switches are made of plastic and operate smoothly. They are easy to change, even with a gloved hand.

The speed switch selects between speed one and speed two.
Speed 1- High Torque 0-480rpm
Speed 2- High Speed 0-2, 100rpm

The HDH183B also features a variable speed trigger which has 11 different speeds.

Hammer Mode

The Bosch HDH183B 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver packs a mean punch when in hammer mode. When in hammer mode, it impacts at 0-31,500bpm. We tested it using Bosch’s Core 6.3aH battery. The tool and 6.3 battery have a combined weight of 5.86Lbs, giving it a great weight- impact ratio.

Runtime

We were very impressed with Bosch’s EC Brushless Motor. After drilling those 6 holes in concrete the battery still had two out of the five bars lit on the battery charge indicator. We tested using Bosch’s Core 6.3aH battery. The Brute Tough 1/2” Hammer Drill/ Driver can also be purchased as a kit which includes 4.0aH batteries. If you think you may use the tool in hammer mode quite a bit, I would recommend looking into purchasing a 6.3aH battery. For more information on the battery, check out Todd’s review here Bosch Core 6.3aH Battery

Cost

The Bosch Brute Tough 1/2” Brushless Hammer Drill/ Driver can be purchased as a bare tool or as a kit.

Bare Tool HDH183B $189.00
With the bare tool you also receive a side auxiliary handle, magnetic bit holder, 4 bit tips, and a belt clip.

Kit HDH183B-1 $293.00
The kit includes the tool, 2- 4.0aH Batteries, BC1880 Fast Charger, auxiliary handle, magnetic bit holder, 4 bit tips, belt clip, and a carrying bag.

Final Thoughts

Overall I give the Bosch 18v Brushless Brute Tough Hammer Drill/ Driver 5/5 stars. It handled all of the tasks great and is truly designed and built to be a long lasting tool. When using the side auxiliary handle, it is well balanced and easy to operate. Comparing it’s hammer drill capabilities to other major brands, it has one of the highest ratings. (Milwaukee 2706-22 32,00bpm, Makita XPH11ZB 25,500bpm, Bosch HDH183B 31,500bpm, Dewalt does not list their bpm ratings online). I would like to see Bosch move the arrow that indicates the clutch setting so that it is visible when using the side handle. The Bosch 18V Brute Tough Hammer Drill/ Driver is definitely the solution to those small projects that don’t require that big corded hammer drill. It will be our first choice.

Bosch 18V Brushless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Driver is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Bosch DDH183B 18V EC Brush-less Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver Review

Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2" Drill/ Driver

4/5

Manufacturer: Bosch
Model number: DDH183B
Price: 169.00
Power source: 18-Volt
Motor size: EC Brushless
Weight: 4.0 lbs

Bosch Solves Problems

I want you to know that the new Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver should definitely be at the top of your list for choices.   Bosch recently released the 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver, and we took it to the job site to see how well it worked.

As soon as we picked it up out of the box we could tell Bosch had upped their game once again with another well designed and built tool.

Bosch DDH183B specifications

• Battery- 18V Lithium Ion
• Chuck Capacity- 1/2″ Keyless Chuck
• Length- 7.8″
• No Load RPM- 0-2,100
• Torque- (in- lbs.) 663
• Weight- 4.0lbs
• Width- 2.5″

Includes- Drill, Auxiliary Side Handle, 1 Magnetic Bit Holder, 4 Bit Tips, 1 Belt Clip

Bosch DDH183B Features

The  Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver uses an 18V EC Brush-less Motor which Bosch claims will deliver 663in- Lbs. of torque.  Believe me, this drill packs a mean punch in the power department.  It also has an all metal 1/2″ chuck and a 25+1 precision clutch and features a variable speed selector;

• high torque (0-480rpm)
• high speed (0-2, 100rpm)

Bosch Power

There is no shortage in power with this drill.  We tested it using Bosch’s Core 6.3aH battery pack and the runtime was impressive.  One of the tasks we tested it with was to drive a box of 375 2″ screws into Boral Trim and we didn’t need to change the battery all day.  Bosch also included their Electronic Motor and Cell Protection, which protects the drill from overheating.  This equals longer run time and avoids potential damage to the tool.

Kickback Control Safety Feature

According to a study released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission more than 2,500 people receive hospital treatment for injuries resulting from the use of power drills.  I personally love the fact that the tool companies are keeping the user in mind and continue to improve the safety features on their tools.

The motor in the Bosch 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver features Bosch’s Kickback Control which is an integrated acceleration sensor that will automatically shut the tool down in the case of a serious bind up.

Testing the Kickback Control

To test this, we used the Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver along with Bosch’s Daredevil spade bits to drill thirty six 1/2″ holes in pressure treated lumber.  The drill caught a couple of tough spots in the wet lumber.  Instead of twisting out of my hands, the Kickback Control shut the motor off.  Anyone who has ever had a drill twist their wrist and arm will know how nice of a feature this is.

Ergonomics and LED Light

Bosch uses their Brute Tough design for the build of the DDH183B.  It’s only 2.5″ wide and 7.8″ long and weighs in at 4.0lbs without the battery.

The grip was very comfortable and the drill is well balanced.  It features one LED light that shines from the base of the drill.  Bosch nailed the angle that the light shines at and we didn’t notice any shadows with twist bits, spade bits, or driving bits.  The light remains on for 10 seconds after releasing the trigger.

Belt Clip

One of the things that stood out to us was the belt clip.  I hate when a manufacturer gives a belt clip that’s barely big enough to clip onto your tool belt.  The clip that Bosch has put on this drill is both longer and has a wider opening, making it very easy to clip onto your belt.  We noticed that with the bigger 6.3aH battery pack, the Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driveris a little “bulky” when hanging off a tool belt.  Even with the larger battery, it is still well balanced and easy to control.  Bosch also provides a side handle accessory for additional control of the drill.  We found the handle quick and simple to install.

All Metal Chuck

One of the first things we noticed on the Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver was the all metal chuck.  It is super smooth to adjust, holds tight, and we didn’t notice any unwanted loosening of the chuck at all.

25-Setting Clutch

The clutch features 25 settings plus the drill setting.  The settings are very easy to read on the drill and the selector is smooth and easy to change.  We liked the 25 different settings.  It’s a great feature for when precision fastening is important.  The clutch mechanism worked flawlessly at all settings.

Mode/ Speed Selector

The Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver has a mode and speed switches on top of the motor housing.  The mode switch controls the drilling and driving feature, and the speed switch allows the user to select between speeds 1 and 2.

• Speed 1: High Torque (0-480rpm)
• Speed 2: High Speed (0-2, 100rpm)

Both switches seem to be well built and were smooth to operate.

How Much?

The Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver comes as a bare tool and is retailed at $169 which we feel is well- priced.  We used the Core 6.3aH battery which retails at $99.99.  For more info on the battery check out Todd’s review here:

Bosch CORE18V 18V 6.3 Ah Battery

Final Thoughts on the Bosch 18V Brute Tough

I gave this drill 4/5 stars.  I would like to see Bosch cut down on the size and weight.  It is well balanced and easy to control, but it is bulky and heavier, compared to competitors:

• The Bosch 18V Brute Force 1/2″ Drill/ Driver weighs in at 4.0lbs.
• The Milwaukee 1/2″ Drill/ Driver (2701-20) weighs in at 2.8Lbs.
• The Dewalt 1/2″ Drill/ driver (DCD791B) weighs 3.4Lbs.

I would also like to see Bosch offer it as a kit with at least two batteries and a charger.  So if you are on your way to the home center to pick up that new drill, the Bosch 18V Brute Force 1/2″ Drill/ Driver will be a great choice.

It will definitely be found hanging off of our tool belts.

Bosch DDH183B 18V Brute Tough 1/2″ Drill/ Driver is a post from Tool Box Buzz