Hilti NURON Cordless 1/2″ High Torque Drill Driver – SF 10W-22

Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 Cordless Drill Driver

5/5

Manufacturer: Hilti
Model number: SF 10W-22
Price: $289
Power source: Li-Ion
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 4.1 lbs (Tool Only)

Specifications & Features

• Maximum Torque: 841 in-lb (soft joint), 1062 in-lb (hard joint)
• No Load RPM: gear 1: 330 rpm; gear 2: 560 rpm; gear 3: 1300 rpm; gear 4: 2230 rpm
• Clutch Settings: 15
• Dimensions: 9.4 x 2.6 x 8.7 inches
• Tool Only Weight: 4.1 lbs
• Brushless Motor
• Full Metal Chuck
• Optimized Cooling
• Active Torque Control (ATC) helps prevent uncontrolled spinning if the drill bit sticks
• LED Work Light

Picture above is the speed selection switches that give this drill a huge range of control. The chuck also has a traditional clutch setting from 1-15 and a drill setting.

Hilti continues to build quality tools with less of the “bells and whistles” that some manufactures crank out. The SF 10W-22 has an all steel chuck with really good knurling on the chuck surface. The keyless design is simple and straightforward and locks bits into place really well.

The SF 10W-22 comes with a LED light mounted just above the battery which provides decent light for the work area. It also comes with a removable, multi-position side handle which is very useful considering the torque this drill produces.

Performance That Packs a Punch

There are lots of tools out there that continue to get smaller and lighter. The Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 isn’t small and it isn’t light. This is a large, powerful 1/2″ drill that not only delivers great torque for difficult drilling applications, but it also has a 15 step clutch, and 4 speed settings that allows users to also deal with delicate drilling applications. This much improved 1/2″ drill boasts a powerful brushless motor that cranks out the torque when paired with Hilti’s NURON line of batteries.

The torque that the Hilti SF 10W-22 produces is impressive to say the least. It mixes drywall compound easier than this drywall crews electric 1/2″ drill. The crew was impressed with the power and speed. The SF 10W-22 is impressive drilling wood as well. Designed for bits up to 6″ this drill can tackle any drilling applications that require the power of larger drills.

Final Thoughts – Hilti NURON SF 10W-22

Hilti’s updated NURON line-up has been impressive. The NURON SF 10W-22 1/2″ Drill Driver isn’t full of fancy extras, it’s a robust, quality built 1/2″ drill driver built for demanding drilling applications. Hilti continues to impress with really well built tools that are designed to take punishment on busy jobsites and keep working day after day. If you are looking for an extremely powerful 1/2″ drill this is one to consider. Priced at $289 for the bare tool, it’s a good value for the quality of this drill.

Hilti NURON SF 10W-22 Cordless Drill Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Hilti 22V Nuron Cordless Brushless Hammer Drill/Drivers (Models SF 4H-22 & SF 6H-22)

Hilti 22v 4H & 6H Hammer Drill/Drivers

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Hilti
Model number: SF 4H-22 & SF 6H-22
Power source: Cordless (Li-Ion)
Motor size: 22V
Weight: 2.9 & 3.7 lbs

Features and Specifications | Hilti 22V Cordless Drills

Features (SF 4H-22):

• LED light molded into tool base
• Long-life brushless motor
• All-Metal Chuck
• Hammer Drill Mode
• Integrated Active Torque Control (ATC)
• Product warranty against parts and manufacturing irregularities for 20 years
• Service is free of charge up to 2 years, including wear & tear, pick-up and delivery

Specifications (SF 4H-22):

• Power Input: 22V
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 7.1 x 2.7 x 8.6 in
• RPMs(Gear): 610 (1) or 2100 (2)
• Max Torque (soft or hard joint): 314 or 549 in-lb
• Max. Chuck Opening (in.): 0.5
• Total Gears: 2
• Torque Increments: 15
• Tool body weight (lbs): 2.9

Features (SF 6H-22):

• Ambidextrous side handle
• LED light molded into tool base
• Long-life brushless motor
• All-Metal Chuck
• Hammer Drill Mode
• Integrated Active Torque Control (ATC)
• Product warranty against parts and manufacturing irregularities for 20 years
• Service is free of charge up to 2 years, including wear & tear, pick-up and delivery

Specifications (SF 6H-22):

• Power Input: 22V
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 8.2 x 2.7 x 8.5 in
• RPMs(Gear): 490 (1) or 2000 (2)
• Max Torque (soft or hard joint): 575 or 752 in-lb
• Max. Chuck Opening (in.): 0.5
• Total Gears: 2
• Torque Increments: 15
• Tool body weight (lbs): 3.7

Overall Performance

Let’s start off by pointing out what is different about these hammer drills. At first glance they appear to be extremely similar. From the number of torque increments and gears, to most of the features they include. But most of differences are under the surface. The Hilti SF 6H-22 boasts slightly larger internal gears. This means a couple things; it’s a bit heavier (0.8 lbs), boasts more overall torque (200-250 in-lbs), and has lower RPMs. Importantly, the Hilti SF 6H-22 is also designed with a removable ambidextrous side handle. The Hilti SF 4H-22 does not offer a side handle feature since it’s meant for lighter duty use. But is no means incapable tool. It still features a smooth functioning hammer drill option. Both drill/drivers operate off Hilti’s Nuron 22V battery platform and offer a full-range of settings up to and including a hammer drill mode. They are both powerful and smooth to operate.

Hilti SF 4H-22 Impressions

For normal jobsite tasks, such as using a paddle bit to drill stud through holes or a hole bit for recessed lighting cut outs, either drill/driver works great. The 4H-22 triggered the ATC more frequently than the 6H-22 for tougher material tasks although infrequently. These included using HSS bits on steel angle & beams (up to 3/8 in. material) and drilling 9/16 in. diameter anchor bolt holes in concrete (in hammer drill mode). The clutch Torque increments offer you a range from roughly 13 to 84 in-lbs, giving you a precise ability to not over-torque fasteners. Combine the clutch settings with a variable speed trigger and the range of settings are infinite.

Hilti SF 6H-22 Impressions

The SF 6h-22 handled many of these tasks flawlessly. While the ATC function (more on that in a bit) did kick on (really only when drilling through steel) we finished our jobs without real delay. And the optional side handle made applying downward pressure while in hammer drill mode much easier and ergonomically friendly. Unlike other drill/drivers on the market, the handle only has two options; left or right. It clamps directly onto the top of the drill body and was easy to reverse and/or remove. The only real difference between this drill and its predecessor (the SF 6H-A22) is a slight increase in hard joint max torque (708 in-lbs vs. 752 in-lbs) and an upgrade to the Nuron battery system (more on that in a bit). It was rugged and well balanced as we’ve come to expect from Hilti tools.

LED Light

The Hilti SF 4H-22 and SF 6H-22 both feature a single LED light integrated into the base of the tool. It is adequately bright but has the normal limitations of a bottom mounted light; it casts upwards shadows which can complicate a user’s line of sight. The LED light is sometimes also blocked by the tool body. Lastly, the LED light has no variable brightness setting like those found on other hammer drills. Not a huge deal but worth noting. If able, we’d love to see Hilti find a way to include at least a second top-mounted LED light.

Battery Life

We are big fans of the new Nuron battery line-up. We covered it in a full-feature article when it was first launched. They deliver impressive power and the batteries don’t run out quickly. We used a Hilti B22-85 battery (4.0 Ah) Pack with both drill/drivers. even with the higher power SF 6H-22 we completed a 7-hr on-site day on a single battery. We used the 6H-22 primarily for drilling with standard and paddle bits in soft framing lumber. At the end of the day we were down to our last battery bar.

Key Design & Safety Features

Ergonomics & Adjustability

The ergonomics for both Hilti hammer drills is nearly identical – and great. The both feature an extremely solid and comfortable rubber over-mold grip on the front and back of the handle. The weight was well balanced with a battery, although still slightly top heavy on the SF 6H-22. The thumb forward-reverse switch is easy to reach. We also appreciated that the variable speed trigger had no noticeable slop or looseness and was incredibly responsive.

The adjustable bezel ring for the torque increments is well contoured to the main body of the drill. It has good grip with the molded indents and because it is a little over an inch in depth, it was easy to grip even when wearing gloves on a chilly jobsite. It turns firmly which we like because it made it easier to dial in the right clutch setting. The gear setting switch is also top mounted. This makes it more convenient to see which setting the tool is adjusted to without having to stop a task as often. The raised body design in front of and behind the switch offer protection from striking and breaking the switch which has happened on other hammer drills we’ve used.

Like the torque increment adjustment bezel, the chuck is easy to grip with gloves. It has a nice diamond checked grip and is also a little over an inch deep. The all-metal construction is on par with other manufacturers and is designed to surely hold up well over time. The checked grip pattern is effective and comfortable with bare hands too.

Active Torque Control (ATC)

This is an essential feature for a PRO-caliber tool. We’ve used drills before that didn’t have this feature and tweaked a wrist when the bit flute got hung up on the cutting material. When the bit stops the drill takes the force and keeps on turning, taking your wrist along with it. ATC is an electronic feature that recognized when the torque is transferred to the tool body and quickly stops the motor from turning. It’s a wrist saver for sure!

Hilti Support Services

Sometimes we mention warranties or support services, but rarely does it get it’s own section. However, Hilti excels in this area. This is because of Hilti’s duration and follow-through on backing up their tools. Service, including wear & tear, pick-up and deliver, is free of charge up to 2 years. Yes, including wear and tear! And the support for defects extends to 20 years. And our experience with Hilti in the past has proved them to be a no-hassles company to deal with. This makes the sometimes more expensive investment usually less risky.

Final Thoughts | Hilti 22V Cordless Drills

The Hilti 22V Cordless Drills, Models SF 4H-22 & SF 6H-22, are well-balanced, high-performance, and built to withstand all job site conditions. They are 100% pro-level! They check all the boxes we look for in a job site cordless drill by offering ample power, effective ATC protection, good battery life, and a limitless range of torque options through two gears, 15- clutch increments, and a variable speed trigger. Plus, both drills have safety strap mounting slots for essential overhead work safety. If you are looking for a new cordless tool line up or have already bought in to Hilti’s new Nuron line of tools, then don’t wait. At $149 (4H-22) and $199 (6H-22) they are on par with prices for other PRO-level tools. If you frequently drill metal, stone, or concrete with a hand drill then we recommend you spring for the SF 6H-22.

Hilti 22V Cordless Drill/Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DEWALT 20V MAX 1/2″ Hammer Drill/Driver – Model DCD805

DEWALT 20V MAX 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver

5/5

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCD805
Price: $179.00
Power source: 20V MAX
Weight: 2.95

The most significant upgrades to DEWALT’s Drill/Drivers are in the size reduction and power increase.  The DCD805 brushless motor is touted at having 40% more Unit Watts Out (think tool Horsepower if unfamiliar) while residing in a package 1/2 inch shorter than the previous generation DCD796.

DCD805 Features and Specifications

• 40% More UWO than the previous DCD796
• Compact Size – 1/2″ shorter than DCD796
• Great Bit Retention with all-metal ratcheting chuck
• Variable speed trigger and 2-speed settings (0-650rpm,0-2000rpm)
• 0-34,000 BPM in Hammer Mode
• 17 position Clutch including Drill and Hammer Setting
• Powerful LED – 3 mode LED with up to 70 Lumens and 20-minute work light mode
• Tool Connect compatible for integration with the Tool Connect Site Manager App

Hands-on Impressions

Compact Size

The new DCD805 Hammer Drill/Driver benefits from years of solid over-mold design and comfortable grip ergonomics.  With such a short length for a drill, the tool is remarkably well balanced in your hand. I have been running an older DEWALT Hammer Drill for years, the DCD985.  While the new DCD805 is touted as being 1/2″ shorter than its predecessor, the DCD796, its amazing to see how much more compact the drill is than one of its older brothers

Small but Powerful

A Drill/Driver with a Hammer Drill mode is a bit of a jack of all trades tool.  Capable of driving fasteners, drilling small precision drill bits or larger wood auger bits, and even smaller masonry tasks, these tools can do it all.  One task I find myself always dreading is driving a small masonry bit to prepare a fastener like a Tapcon with an underpowered Drill/Driver.  I loaded a 3/16 Tapcon bit into the all-metal chuck, selected the hammer mode on the clutch, and get after it.  The DCD805 has 850 Unit Watts Out and up to 34,000 Blows Per Minute in Hammer mode.  This little drill had more than enough guts and was surprisingly fast at drill 2″ deep holes in mature concrete.

The all-metal ratcheting chuck is fantastic and really gives you assurance the bit is going to hold.

The Power of Light

The last impressive feature I want to touch on is the three-position switch and corresponding LED.  Most cordless hand tools have some form of LED illumination these days.  The DCD805 comes with a 3-position selector that allows you to keep the LED Off, Activate on trigger pull and lastly crank the Lumens up to 70 and remain on for 20 minutes.  This feature can become pretty useful if you find yourself working in a cramped location like a closed joist bay or attic space.  Being able to drill your hole and set the tool down and rely on its light while you complete your task is a nice touch.

The DCD805 and its little brother the DCD800 (without the Hammer Mechanism) are available now as a bare tool or a kit with a battery.  We recommend pairing the Drill/Drivers with DEWALT’s new Powerstack compact batteries to take full advantage of the impressive power to size ratio these drills provide.

DEWALT 20V MAX 1/2″ Hammer Drill/Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

RIDGID Subcompact Cordless Right Angle Drill – Model R87701B

18V Subcompact Brushless 3/8" Right Angle Drill

4/5

Manufacturer: Ridgid
Model number: R87701B
Price: $139.00
Power source: 18v
Weight: 2.03lb

We don’t use a right-angle drill all the time, but it’s the tool we use when we need to drill a hole or drive a screw in a tight/awkward area where a conventional drill won’t fit. A right angle drill is a versatile tool that can be used in almost any DIY project that requires you to work in confined spaces, such as plumbing and other construction jobs. For example, while drilling or screwing between floor joists, inside a cabinet, or anywhere else where a standard drill would struggle to reach the screws.

R87701B Manufacturer Specifications

• Delivers 375 in./lbs. of torque
• Compact right angle drill measuring in at only 3-1/2 inches
• 2-Speed gearbox delivers 0-500 / 0-1,900 RPM
• 3/8 in. chuck provides optimized bit insertion depth
• LED Light for improved low light situations
• 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries
• Includes R87701 18V SubCompact Brushless Cordless 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill, Drilling/Driving Bit, Bit Holder with Screw, Belt Hook with Screw, and Operator’s Manual
• Battery and charger sold separately

Tight Fitting Areas

Prior to the right angle drill, we’ve used right-angle drilling attachments with a drill; this can put you in awkward postures at times and can also restrict the use of both hands to hold the drill, attachment, and whatever you are fastening. This can be very frustrating!  This drill only requires one hand to use it, it has a very large trigger switch and it offers high and low-speed drilling ranges.

This Ridgid sub-compact brushless right angle drill is just what’s needed to get at those tight and awkward spots for driving 1-1/4″ screws to secure a benchtop to some cubbies built for a mudroom. The 375in-lbs of torque is plenty for completing this task.

Standout Features

LED Light

On the Ridgid R87701 Right Angle Drill, a bright LED light is positioned just below the chuck, providing good area coverage. A good LED light is especially useful while working in small, tight spaces.

RPMS

The 2-Speed gearbox of the RIDGID R87701 delivers 0-500 / 0-1,900 RPMs. This is 100RPMS quicker than its closest rival. Additionally, the 375 in./lbs. of torque provides best-in-class power for difficult tasks like drilling larger spade bits into 2x material

Compact

At only 3-1/2 inches in length, this Brushless Right Angle Drill is one of the industry’s smallest Right Angle Drills, ideal for drilling and driving in tight locations like inside cabinets or between studs. It’s a quarter-inch smaller than the Milwaukee and a half-inch smaller than the Dewalt.

Overall Impressions

As we mentioned before the RIDGID 18v Subcompact line of tools is very impressive to the Tool Box Buzz crew. They continue to produce well-designed, well-balanced, and subcompact fatigue-reducing tools. TBB Editor Rob Robillard continues to call RIDGID the “Hidden Gem” of contracting tools. Paired up with their Lifetime Service Agreement and their very reasonable pricing, when have to agree with Rob!

Ridgid Subcompact Right Angle Drill Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DeWALT DCD703F1 XTREME 12V MAX  5-in-1 Drill/Driver Review

DeWALT 5-in-1 Interchangeable Chuck Drill/Driver

4.5/5

Manufacturer: DeWALT
Model number: DCD703F1
Price: 179.00
Power source: 12 Volt
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 1.6 bare tool, no accessory

Multi-head cordless drill drivers are popular due to their lightweight, compact size, ability to provide access in uniquely challenging locations, and precision drilling and driving control.

With these compact cordless tools combined with the accessories mentioned above, one kit can tackle a wide range of tasks on the job without requiring multiple cordless tools. The flexibility and portability capabilities that these multi-head drill drivers offer are quite impressive.

DEWALT 5-in-1 Interchangeable Chuck Drill/Driver Specifications

DeWALT 5-in-1 Interchangeable Chuck Drill/Driver – Overview

The DEWALT 5-in-1 driver is a compact, lightweight, modified drill driver with [4] four dedicated interchangeable attachments:

• ¼” Hex Quick Release Bit Holder
• 3/8” Keyless Chuck
• ¼” Hex Quick Release Offset Bit Holder
• Right Angle Attachment

A brushless motor, 2-speed settings, and 15 clutch settings allow the user to dial in their fastening. The well-placed and bright led light-up cabinet interiors and tore kick spaces nicely.

We think the 12-volt system was the right platform for this tool. Less than 5 in. long, and weighing 1.6 lbs. (without battery or attachments)and fits nicely in confined spaces, tight corners, or offset fastening situations.

We found the attachments easy to execute and DEWALT’s one-handed bit loading with the 1/4 in. hex quick-release attachment is always a welcomed feature, and one that many have copied.

The interchangeable head has approx 16 different settings which allow you to get the tool and the attachments into tight locations.

DeWALT 5-in-1 Interchangeable Chuck Drill/Driver is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Driver‑Drill Review – Model XPH14

Makita 18V Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver‑Drill

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Makita
Model number: XPH14
Power source: (2) 18V LXT Batteries
Motor size: Brushless
Weight: 5.73lbs

The Makita 18V 1/2″ Hammer Driver‑Drill was designed to run more efficiently and draws less energy from the battery, allowing a cooler battery/motor and longer runtime

Makita has been producing high-quality professional tools for more than a century. While they sometimes appear to be behind their competition, in new tool releases, what comes out of Makita is high-quality tools that last a long time. That’s what matters when your using tools to make a living. Once a tool earns your trust like this, it’s worth the wait.

Compact and Powerful

This drill was designed for demanding drilling applications. Paired with a 6″ x 7/8″ auger bit, this compact drill will still fit in between studs which are 16″ on-center. In a basement remodel we assisted our electrician with running a new wire for a few outlets. Makita supplied us with their 6″ auger bit. The high-torque hammer drill, set on speed-2 was able to rip into 2×4’s like a hot knife through butter! The secondary handle is a great feature during this application supporting my non-dominant hand I was able to control the drill and hit my target area without any issue.

Makita also sent over their 2-9/16″ self-feed bit to use in the XPH14. We cut some holes on scrap 2×4’s to test out the torque on speeds one and two. Here’s what we concluded:

• 26 seconds to drill through the 2×4 on speed 1.
• 13 seconds to drill through on speed 2 with the bit getting snagged twice.

Makita XPH14’s Standout Features

• Brushless motor
• 2-speed transmission
• All metal 1/2″ self ratcheting chuck
• L.E.D. lights
• Rubberized soft grip
• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT)
• Star Protection Computer Controls

Makita Ergonomics

Makita has a long history of success in ergonomics. They listen to what we [consumers] say and put in a lot of effort to create products that not only feel good in our hands but are also well-balanced and allow us to work without pains and strains. Having a well-balanced tool reduces fatigue and the risk of harm during extended periods of use on the job site. Makita’s handle has a great textured rubber over-mold that provides comfort while operating.

Makita XPH14 Manufacturer Specifications

• Model: Makita XPH14
• Power Source: Makita 18V LXT battery
• Chuck Size: 1/2-inch
• No-Load Speed: 0 – 550 / 0 – 2100 RPM
• Max Torque: 1250 in-lbs
• Blow Rate: 0 – 8250 / 0 – 31500
• Wood Capacity: 3 inches
• Steel Capacity: 1/2 inch
• Masonry Capacity: 5/8 inch
• Length: 7 inches
• Weight with Battery: 6 pounds
• Warranty: 3 years

Variable Speeds

The Makita XPH14 has a 2-speed clutch with speeds ranging from 0-550 RPM on speed one to 0-2,100 RPM on speed two. With 0-3,500 BPM [blows per minute], the hammer drill packs a powerful punch. The new XPH14 is also 1-1/8″ shorter than the earlier models, making it more compact.

The new XPH17 has a torque rating of 1,250 in-lbs, which is 160 in-lbs more than the previous model, the XPH07.

Overall Impressions

The Makita XPH14 drill was a pleasure to use. The drill’s features, combined with its compact size and power, make it an all-around great drill driver. It is priced competitively with other professional bands, and if you use the Makita battery platform, this upgraded high-torque compact drill driver is a must-have.

How to Purchase

The Makita XPH14 can be purchased in two ways. You can purchase it as a bare tool or in a kit.

Bare Tool – Makita XPH14Z – $149.00

• Drill / Driver
• Secondary Handle
• Depth Stop Rod
• Belt Clip

Kitted Version – Makita XPH14T – $319.00

• Drill / Driver
• Secondary Handle
• Depth Stop Rod
• Belt Clip
• Single Bank Charger
• (2) 18v LXT 5.0Ah Batteries
• Carrying Bag

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

DEWALT 12Volt 1/4″ Screwdriver DCF610 A 10-year Look-back Review

Back in February 2011, we tested this DEWALT 12V Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2)

When we tested it we were impressed with its size to power ratio. We felt that although it looks like a toy, it was designed and built with contractors in mind. The screwdriver is compact yet powerful enough to handle a variety of professional jobs.

Back then, we told you we felt this was a perfect tool for remodelers, electricians, cabinet installers, woodworkers, and many other professionals whose jobs demand fastening and drilling applications.

The DEWALT 12V Screwdriver had the ability to drive 207 2-1/2” cabinet screws on a single battery charge. The result was a powerful, ultra-compact screwdriver that is durable.

What We Liked

I was very impressed with the balance between torque, speed, and battery run time. For me, this is a great tool for cabinet installation and all-around assembly of products requiring screws, nuts, etc.

This design feature creates a very well-balanced drill at a lightweight of only 2.2 lbs.

The contoured handle was designed by using digital scanning and 3D technology and is still one of the most comfortable grips on the market today.

We felt that DEWALT did a really nice job with the [at the time] new LED work light design on the 12 Volt screwdriver.  They positioned three LED lights around the chuck which produces a much better stream of light compared to drills with one light positioned below the chuck.

The new design helps eliminate shadows on the workpiece and also provides a much brighter light source.

Back then the DEWALT 12V Screwdriver sold as a kit for $140 and can now be purchased for around $100.

The overall impression was we were impressed. This tool had an excellent balance between power (torque), speed, battery run time, weight, and comfort. This tool really does represent the contractor’s needs for a lightweight, powerful, comfortable tool.

So….. Did we get this one right?

Hell-Yea we did.

The DEWALT 12V Screwdriver kit has performed admirably and has stood the test of time – almost a decade. It now lives in my shop and is a go-to too for fastening and assembly.

Well-Done DEWALT!

Read Our Review – from 10 Years Ago

DEWALT 12V Screwdriver – 10 Year Look-Back Video Review

DEWALT 12V Screwdriver – 10 Year Look-Back Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DEWALT 20V Hammer Drill/Driver & Combo Kit Review (Model DCK299D1W1)

DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless ½" Hammer Drill/Driver and ¼” Driver Combo Kit

5/5

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCK299D1W1
Price: $349
Power source: Cordless
Motor size: 20V
Weight: 5.5 Lbs (tools only)

When Lowe’s recently asked us to test out DEWALT’s 20V Hammer Drill/Driver & Combo Kit (Model DCK299D1W1), we were excited to put them through the paces on the job site.  As all professionals can attest to, the hammer drill/driver and impact driver are at the top of the list for the most useful and used tools on the job site.  We used them for common tasks like driving screws, drilling electrical pass through stud holes, driving lag bolts, and drilling pilot holes in concrete for anchor bolts. This gave us a good feel for the overall performance and design for both tools.

The DEWALT 20V ½” Hammer Drill/Driver and ¼” Impact Driver,  Model DCK299D1W1, includes

• Hammer Drill/Driver (Model DCD998)
• Compact Impact Driver (Model DCF887)
• 1x 8.0 Ah battery pack (DCB208)
• 1x 2.0 Ah battery pack (DCB203)
• Fast Charger (Model DCB118).

DEWALT ½ Hammer Drill/Driver (DCD998) and ¼ Impact Driver (DCB118) Specifications

The new and improved DEWALT Hammer Drill/Driver still has many of our favorite features built into the earlier DCD996 Hammer Drill Driver. So then what’s the biggest upgrade DEWALT included in the DCD998?  Power!  Or more specifically, DEWALT’s new Power Detect Technology. It’s not just a bigger number they put on the spec sheet (DEWALT advertises 29% more power) but power that translated directly into our job site tasks.  Simply put, the electronics inside the DCD998 can detect when the tool is running off of a high-capacity 20V XR battery and the tool can use the full 20 Volts of power during continuous vs. peak operations. It’s also worth noting that the Power Detect design is only built into the DCD998 ½” Hammer Drill/Driver and not the DCB118 ¼” impact driver.

DEWALT ½” Hammer Drill/Driver (DCD998)

• Heavy-duty 1/2-in ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts
• 3-speed, high-performance, all-metal transmission
• 3-mode LED with spotlight mode and 20-min auto shut off
• 0-38,250 BPM for fast drilling in masonry materials
• DEWALT-built high power, high-efficiency Brushless motor

DEWALT ¼” Impact Driver (DCF887)

• Compact size (5.3-in front-to-back length) and lightweight (3.4-lbs) design for working in confined spaces
• 3-speed settings for optimized application versatility
• Precision drive in speed 1 for precision applications and added control
• Provides 1,825 in-lb of max torque at 0-3,250 rpm and 0-3,800 impacts per minute
• One-handed loading 1/4″ hex chuck with easy grip sleeve, accepts 1″ bit tips
• 3 LEDs with 20-second delay after trigger release
• DEWALT-built high power, high-efficiency Brushless motor

DCD998 Hammer Drill/Driver Ergonomics

The DCD998 sports DEWALT’s tried and true molded rubber anti-vibration grip.  It fits the hand perfectly and allows for slip-free gripping in any condition.  The anti-vibration design limits fatigue over long periods or when using the hammer drill mode for high impact tasks like drilling into concrete.  The weight felt well-balanced.  We performed a series of drilling tasks with the provided 8Ah battery and then swapped it out for a 2Ah battery pack.  While the 8Ah pack added to the overall weight and slightly lowered the DCD998’s operating center of gravity, the drill still felt evenly balanced with either pack.  Also, the power/torque, mode, and light switches are conveniently placed.

DCD998 Modes and Power Options

The DCD998 has 11 clutch modes to allow for a range of torque control options.  There is also a standard clutch-free drilling mode and the previously mentioned hammer drill mode.  These are selected by rotating the mode collar located between the chuck and main drill body.  In addition to the modes, there are also 3 selectable torque and speed options, when combined with the clutch options, which creates a total of 33 power/clutch combinations.

When used with the variable speed trigger the amount of fine-tuned torque and speed control is impressive.  While we preferred to use the DCB118 ¼” impact driver for driving fasteners (more on that in a bit), the DCD998 is a capable driver in its own right and fully-optimized for drilling.

DCD998 LED Light

The DCD998 Hammer drill/driver has a well thought out and integrated 3-mode LED light.  First, the 20-minute timer on the high setting is great.  It limited my need to have a separate work light when drilling in the back corner of the room.  It was sufficiently bright to allow for drilling operations in a low light corner of the room we finished framing out.  The 3-mode LED light is located on the front and center of the base, just above the battery.  It is quite bright and angled up approximately 20 degrees to allow use in a hands-free spotlight capacity.  We did appreciate that the light also serves as a battery low indicator; When in spotlight (high) mode, the light will blink twice and then dim to let you know the battery is almost dead.

DCD998 Overall Performance

A hammer drill earns its place when you are trying to drill through tough substrates like concrete or tile.  We used the DCD998 to drill 3” deep, 3/8” diameter holes into a concrete slab for anchor bolts.  Two things stood out; first, there was no bit slow down as we approached the 3” mark.  The torque and bit speed remained constant with no audible indications of motor overload.  Second, the hammer action (at 38,250 BPMs) was exceptionally smooth with minimal bit walking when we first started drilling.  While hammer drilling over time will certainly cause user fatigue, we found the BPM count sufficiently high to eliminate the feeling of excessive vertical movement.

DCF887 Design and Features

When evaluating a ¼” driver we look at a few design features that are directly related to the driver’s functionality: size, ergonomics, durability, and lighting/visibility.  The DCF887 is a compact driver, measuring in at 5.3” from hex collar to the rear of the motor housing.  This was plenty compact to allow for space-restricted tasks such as driving fasteners in small corner cabinets.  The ergonomics are also top-notch in the DCF887.  It was well balanced with DEWALTs standard non-slip grip making hours of use comfortable and fatigue-free. With a 2Ah battery, we found the DCF887 to be exceptionally well balanced making off-balance fastener driving an easy task.

The integrated rubber molding at the back of the main housing and all-metal bit and collar housing at the front gives the impression of a rugged and damage resistant tool.  Of note, this is just the first impression as extended use over time is the only true method to prove this impression true.  Lastly, the 3-LED offset light design allows for even and very bright light from any angle without the compact bit collar interfering with the light.   The 20-second timer was more than adequate for any tasks requiring light to complete.  When combined, these features make for a well thought out and highly functional impact driver.

DCF887 Overall Performance

The DCF887 delivers 1,825 in-lb of max torque and up to 3,800 BPMs.  This translated to smooth and slow-down free fastener driving (whether 3/8” Lag Bolts or 3” wood screws into layered PT boards.  The brushless motor didn’t feel hot during any of the job site tasks we used it to complete. The brushless motor was also translated into significant improvements in battery life, especially when compared to the brushed model it replaced (DCF886). A single 2Ah battery was able to drive approximately 80x 3” ledger screws and a half dozen 3/8” x 3” lag bolts.

We appreciated the 3 mode options. Mode setting 1 is designed as a slow approach mode to prevent over-driving fasteners into a softer finish surface. Although we tended to leave the DCF887 set on mode 3 while relying on the variable speed trigger to control the driving depth.  Lastly, while some owners have reported bit collar wobble this was not an issue or point of concern on the specific DCF887 we reviewed.

Overall Impression

While not an inexpensive kit, the DCK299D1W1 is worth every Penny.  The DCD998 Hammer drill/Driver performs exceptionally well; the added 29% Power from the Power Detect design lives up to the billing.  It operates smoothly and feels rugged and durable in every way.  It drilled smoothly even when drilling into a 6” concrete slab.  The LED light is quite bright and the spotlight mode works very well in low light environments.  It is comfortable and well balanced.  The DCF887 ¼” impact driver is everything we wanted in a compact impact driver.  The 3 power settings are convenient and the brushless motor supplied ample torque for all the work we completed.  It was also well balanced and the battery life was exceptional. If you are looking to invest in a drill/driver set with ample functionality and flexibility then look no further than the  DCK299D1W1.

DEWALT 20V ½” Hammer Drill/Driver and ¼” Impact Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

DEWALT DCD999B Hammer Drill and Driver Review

DEWALT DCD999B Hammer Drill and Driver

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCD999B
Price: $169 - $179
Power source: Cordless
Motor size: 20V
Weight: 3.54 Lbs (bare tool)

DEWALT DCD999B Features and Specifications

FEATURES:

• Compatible with all DEWALT 20V MAX & FLEXVOLT® Batteries
• Heavy-duty 1/2 in. ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts
• 3-mode LED light with 20 min auto-shutoff Spotlight mode
• Tool Connect Chip Ready
• 3-speed transmission

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Brushless Motor
• Chuck Capacity: 1./2” keyless Chuck
• Weight: 3.54 LBS (Bare Tool)
• Height: 8.3 IN
• Length: 8.4 IN
• Width:  2.7 IN
• Watt Output: 1219W
• No Load RPM: 0-2000
• No Load BPM: 38,250

Power

For the first test of power, I drilled 30 total 1/4″ diameter, 4” deep holes into 3500 PSI concrete.  Not only did the drill maintain a consistent torque and drill speed throughout the operation, but I found that I was able to maintain consistent pressure throughout the drilling while maintaining a consistent drill speed.  (I followed my usual practice of backing the drill bit out halfway through drilling to help clear the hole/flutes).  The performance remained the same (pressure/bit speed/hole bore speed) from the first to the last hole I drilled.  I maintained about 15-20 seconds of rest time between holes.  I used both power setting 2 and 3 and was pleasantly surprised that in power setting 2 I was still able to easily drill the required holes, although I did notice some bit slow down and motor strain for the last 1” or so.

Integrated Safety & Electronics Protection Features

First, it is worth noting that this hammer drill doesn’t have an integrated kickback safety feature when in the drill or hammer drill modes.  So the risk of sudden torque twists still exists.  When drilling through tough surfaces, especially hammer drilling, I am always leery about torque-related risks.  (I’ve caught a drill bit too many times on steel or concrete and had a sore wrist for a few days.  The DCD999B does feature a variable speed trigger for additional torque control.  This means that the more fully you depress the trigger the higher the speed the tool operates at.  The responsiveness and sensitivity of the variable speed trigger made it very easy to ramp up the drill speed as required.

Additionally, while all drills will heat up during extended drilling operations (especially hammer drilling), the DCD999B seemed reasonably cool during operation.  I wasn’t worried about thermal overload or the battery overheating.  The additional power did seem to reduce bit stoppages during operations though. The DEWALT DCD999B hammer drill/driver employs DEWALTS’s industry-standard Electronic Protection System (EPS) which will shut the tool off in cases of potentially dangerous battery overheating or overdraw due to extended usage.

DEWALT DCD999B Ergonomics

The pistol grip is great.  It has the same non-slip and formed design I have come to love on my other DEWALT cordless tools.  Additionally, I found the checkering, non-slip etching pattern on the keyless chuck to be more comfortable than etching on other chucks I’ve used.  And it still maintained a great non-slip grip.  The weight was well-balanced when paired with my 6Ah battery.  When I used my 2aH battery it was a bit top-heavy but that was expected.  When the handle is mounted any slight weight imbalance becomes a non-factor as the dual point hold eliminates this concern.  Also, with the auxiliary handle, the extra weight of the larger battery was a positive as it offered more stability and natural pressure when drilling.

Lastly, the location of the speed, mode, and light switches are placed in easy-to-reach locations where I could still single-handedly hold the drill and change any setting required.  The switches were a bit stiff. With additional break-in, I’m confident they would slide smoothly yet firmly.

DCD999B 3-LED Light

It has a light.  My other tools have lights.  So all things must be equal, right?  Wrong!  The variable light settings are invaluable, while the 20-minute timer on the high setting is great.  It limited my need to have a separate work light when drilling in the back corner of the room.  The 3-LED light is located on the front and center of the base, just above the battery.  It is quite bright and angled well to provide light when operating the DEWALT DCD999B.  The only consideration I had is that when placed on flat ground, the light beam center is angled up approximately 15-20 degrees (so it may not illuminate the ground as much as desired).  I did appreciate that the light also serves as a battery low indicator; When in spotlight (high) mode, the light will blink twice and then dim to let you know the battery is almost dead.

DEWALT DCD999B Auxiliary Side Handle

The auxiliary handle is sturdy and rotates a full 360 degrees for left or right-handed users.  It also features a standard, tool-free tightening mechanism which quickly loosens the handle for easy mid-job, one-handed removal as required. The attachment collar secures just behind the keyless chuck on a portion of the DCD999B’s aluminum gearbox. The auxiliary handle is 11 ¾” in overall length with 4 ½” of grip width giving it ample width for wider-handed users.

DEWALT DCD999B Transmission, Clutch & Modes

The DEWALT DCD999B combines a 3-speed transmission with 11 clutch settings for a total of 33 clutch operation modes.  Speed 1 is a low speed/high torque setting while speed 3 is the high speed/low torque option.  Simply put, any drilling task can be task optimized!  I tested out the clutch settings when lag bolting some headers into place.  When using the clutch settings, it was extremely easy to step them up to the perfect balance of speed and torque so I didn’t accidentally bury the hex head into the beam.  Combine the speed and torque settings with the variable sped trigger already mentioned and you have a near-limitless option of speed/torque ranges.

The drill can be set to operate in 3 modes:

• Drill-on-clutch mode
• Drill mode (no clutch)
• Hammer drill mode (no clutch)

The standard drill-on-clutch mode engages the clutch at a pre-defined torque point.  There are 11 clutch engagement settings, with the user rotating the mode ring to dial in the right amount of torque.  This allows for a reduction of the chances of over-torquing or driving a fastener into a workpiece.

Drill and hammer-drill modes have no clutch limit.  The difference between these modes is that the standard drill mode has no up-and-down percussion movement like the hammer-drill mode.  The up to 38,250 blows per minute (BPM) make for an unnoticeable and smooth hammer-drill operation.  As with all hammer drills, bit walking occurred on smooth surfaces.  But using a pilot hole or center punch fixed the bit walking with no problems.

Runtime

Battery runtime was excellent on the DCD999B.  After drilling 30 total ¼” holes at 4” depth in 3500 PSI concrete, I still had 2/3 bars left on the battery (51-74% charged). I also used the drill to mix 600 lbs of floor leveling concrete and the battery only used a single bar!  Each of the six batches was mixed for approximately 4-5 mins on power level 3 in drill mode without any noticeable pauses or stops in operation.  That is some impressive runtime without a sacrifice in performance.

DEWALT DCD999B Tool Connect Chip Option

I was unable to test the Tool Connect Chip optional feature as a chip did not come with the tool I received.  For those who already own a  Tool Connect Chip (or a desire to safeguard tools at a job site), this feature enables the user to track, manage and locate tools misplaced on a job site using a smart device.  The chip is mounted in a screwed in receiver port in the base of the tool.

DEWALT DCD999B Cost

• Amazon – $162 (Bare tool only)
• Home Depot – $179 (Bare tool only)
• Acme Tools – $179 (Bare tool only)

Final Thoughts

Overall, I was very pleased with the DEWALT DCD999B’s great balance of power, runtime, and ergonomics. My only recommendation would be for DEWALT to add in an anti-kickback feature in future versions of the tool. Even without it, the variable mode and speed settings, easily positionable auxiliary handle, and great LED work light make this a full-feature powerhouse you’ll immediately depend on for the toughest of drilling jobs!

DEWALT DCD999B Hammer Drill and Driver Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Festool T18+3 Easy Drill Review

Festool T18+3 Cordless Drill

Manufacturer: Festool
Model number: T18+3
Price: $199
Power source: 18 v
Weight: 3.97

Out of the box, I looked at the specifications and they were not very impressive. For example, a Festool TID-18 delivers 1,599 in-pounds of torque and a 3,200 rpm maximum speed. The T18+3 E produces 442.5 in-pounds of torque and a maximum of 1,500 rpm.

While not in the same league as the TID-18, the Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill nevertheless surprised me and ‘punched above its weight class’. It is a solid high-quality performer.

Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill Information

• Motor: Brushless
• RPM Range: 0-1500 rpm
• Max Torque: 442.5 in-lbs.
• Chuck Size: 1/2 in.
• Weight: 3.97 lbs.
• Warranty: 3 year
• Bare Tool Price: $199
• Kit Price: $299
• Kit Includes the Following Items
• T18 Easy Drill Driver
• (2) 4.0Ah High Power Bluetooth Battery
• (1) TCL6 Charger
• (1) PoziDrive #2 Driver Bit 1
• (1) Belt Clip 1
• (1) Systainer³ M 187

Using the Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill

When Mercedes Benz came out with its recent lower-cost C-Class automobiles, I thought they would be a disappointment in how a premier manufacturer designs and builds a less expensive car. I thought that – up until the time that I actually drove one. The C Class had all of the traits, appointments, and feel of a larger and more expensive Mercedes model. In this case, I had a similar experience with the Festool 18 +3.

The torque and rpm numbers are smaller than other drill drivers, the 18 +3 gets the job done – and gets it done well.

Brushless Motor

The T18 +3 E has a new generation EC-TEC motor. The initials stand for Electronically Commutated – TEChnology. This set of electronics monitor the tool operating temperature, the battery level, and power output to provide optimal performance and to keep the tool from damage.

Electronic Clutch System

The EC-TEC controls are also the key to the 18 +3’s clutch system. This system is 100% electronic and extremely precise in delivering the right amount of torque to the fastener. The tool needs to be in the drive position and an adjustable dial at the rear of the tool controls the torque delivery. When the torque limit is reached, the electronic clutch simply stops the drill and the tool produces an audible beep. I set very small fasteners in wood and aluminum at the low end of the setting with no overdriving. On the other end of the adjustment, I drove 6” Timberlocks with no problem. I also made multiple 1 9/16” holes in doubled up CDX plywood with a self-feeding speed boring bit.

Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill Controls and Features:

The top of the tool has two controls. The most forward control is for the two-speed gearbox selector. This is a slide switch and has positive feedback when the user flips from one setting to the other. The switch is activated in a front-to-back motion and the switch itself has a large detent in it for a user’s thumb during activation. The switch also carries the “1” or “2” designation that makes it easy to know which position you have selected.

The second control is a selector that puts the T18 +3 E into either a drill mode or a driver mode. This switch is engaged from side to side to select the appropriate mode. This selector too has a solid feel to it and the user knows when the mode is changed. It takes a bit of force to move from one setting to the next and I like that positive switch feel. The tool body has a graphic representation of wither a screw or a drill bit to let the user know the selected position.

As is the case with many of the Festool line, the manufacturer makes the user controls with a bright green color to make it easy to find the tool adjustment and usage locations.

The trigger has a forward/reverse control switch that the user switches from side to side for the selection.

From an ergonomic point of view, the T18 +3 E is all Festool. The grip has a complete overmold of rubber on the handle and it fits well within my hand. I used this tool for several hours for hours without feeling any hard edges or discomfort. I also like the position of the clutch adjustment at the rear of the tool. It was easy to change without shifting my grip and easy enough to change with my thumb. I like that placement better than the barrel location that I have on the other drill driver I use.

Festool provided an LED light just above the trigger and it is bright enough to highlight the work area. It illuminates with the operation of the trigger.

The final control on the tool is the battery indicator that Festool located on the front of the battery pack. The battery indicator has four LEDs to indicate the charge remaining in the battery pack. To change the battery, the user squeezes the two light green buttons on the sides of the battery and slides the battery pack forward.

I noticed that the 18v 4.0 amp-hr. battery packs had Bluetooth symbols on them. I was curious if there were any Festool apps to control the tool settings.  A little research led me to the answer about the Bluetooth capabilities. The Bluetooth battery AIRSTREAM capability will automatically start up Bluetooth enabled Festool dust extraction equipment. While that is not a feature that I can currently use, users with the right Festool equipment will find that feature convenient.

Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill Cost

The Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill comes as a bare tool or in a kit. The prices I saw were $199  (T18 +3 – BASIC) and $299 (T18 +3 4.0 I-PLUS), respectively. The kit, in particular, represents a great value as it comes with the charger and two 4.0 amp-hr. batteries – all with a Systainer (SYS3 M 187) box.

Festool Warranty

The cordless screwdriver and battery pack are completely covered with the comprehensive services of Festool SERVICE, as described, below.

The Purchaser is entitled to a free extended warranty (1 year + 2 years = 3 years) on a new Festool power tool purchased from an authorized retailer. Festool shall be responsible for all shipping costs during the first year of the warranty. During the second and third year of the warranty, the customer is responsible for shipping the tool to Festool. Festool will pay for return shipping to the customer using UPS Ground Service. All warranty service is valid 3 years from the date of purchase on your receipt or invoice.

Conclusion

Having a drill driver that can provide precise control for torque delivered to a fastener is an important consideration for me. The EC-TEC motor and controls deliver that capability and make the T18 +3 E a tool that I will reach for on a daily basis.

Festool T18+3 E Cordless Drill is a post from Tool Box Buzz