Amazon.com

Here comes power and efficiency in a great compact size. Before you even press the trigger, you'll love how this tool fits in your hand, how well-balanced it is. The rubberized grip gives you a sure, comfortable hold, even at odd angles. Performance is top-notch, thanks to dual ball bearings, precision balancing and a refined high-grade field magnet. We're really impressed by Makita's exclusive Shift Lock Drive. With a single touch, you shift quickly and easily "drill" to "driver" mode, locking out the clutch for superior drilling. And we love it when manufacturers include two batteries with their tools, because that means no down time. The charger handles multi-volt batteries, too, so it's good for a wide range. Maintenance is simple because the brushes are accessible. A great, hardworking drill/driver.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Includes side handle, bits, 2-batteries, charger and case
• Powerful 18-Volt Ni-MH batteries for longer run time
• Industrial metal gear housing and "high performance" Makita motor for long lasting durability
• 404 in.lbs. torque with16 torque settings
• Industrial 1/2" keyless chuck and externally accessible brushes for easy replacement

Reviews (7)

shock and awe, in a blue package...
Disregard all unfavorable reviews...this drill is yet another work of art from Makita! Perfect ergonomics and balance, even with a hefty 18V battery you still get incredible control and precision, instead of sweating and straining to keep the darn thing perpendicular to the drilling surface as with cheaper drills. This is my second Makita drill, the first one was a smaller 14.4v which I'll pass on to my wife because it's lighter.

I love America, born and bred, but gotta hand it to the Japanese: when it comes to anything electric (or gasoline-powered, for that matter) they kick our butts left and right! Sony TVs, Toshiba laptops, Lexus autos, Honda motorcycles...anything that doesn't blow up things and kill people, the Japanese simply have perfected.

Have used DeWalt drills before, they were just a little bit better than Black and Decker (the mother company) which doesn't justify the big price jump. Porter Cable has good power but tends to weigh a ton and their chucks are spotty.

Viva Makita!

solid drill with a few caveats
This is my third makita drill so I consider myself biased. I don't use it all day but I need a quality drill for household repairs. The electric makita drill I've had now for fifteen years and it still runs fine. My second, I bought one of those 9 volt drills when the first cordless drills came out. I good drill but it's for light work. The batteries on this I've used all day without a recharge, alot longer than the models a few years ago. I've had problems with the chuck though. On many occasions the drill bit will come loose with smaller bits. The cap has come loose. Still it's put up with all the abuse I've given it.

smoked and croaked
After using the makita for 6 months it smoked and croaked. I was unscrewing deck boards and after a hour and 1/2 I noticed it getting warm then suddenly began to smoke. My work partner was using a Miluakee 18 volt and it kept at it all day.

ALL THE POWER YOU NEED!
The Shift Lock Drive System is the easiest clutch lockout I've ever used. Two 2.6 amp-hour batteries and the quick charger can keep you going with out delays. Balance and the light weight make this easy to use, the 18-volt power makes it a pleasure.

Dissapointed
Transmission broke after three months of use. Had to buy a Porter Cable while I wait three business days for mine to be repaired. Being a diehard Makita guy I should have learned by now that while their saws and such are great, the drills still need alot of work. Too expensive for homeowner use, and kinda weak to rely on for the professional. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Impressively compact, lightweight, and comfortable to use, Panasonic's 15.6-volt drill/driver fits into tight spaces where other bulkier drills won't. The 3-1/2 amp NiMH batteries deliver remarkable run time per charge, which is a big plus, especially if you need a tool for continuous use. What about power? This Panasonic packs up to 390 inch-pounds of torque--as much (if not more) than anyone needs in a cordless tool. The motor's speed control allows full torque at any speed, so you can apply full torque while still maintaining control. The tool features dual speed ranges of 65 to 450 and 200 to 1,450 rpm. The 1/2-inch chuck takes bigger bits. The first thing you notice about this tool, however, is how compact it is (the chassis measures only 8-1/2 inches) and how comfortable it feels in your hand. The soft-pad grip provides extra cushion and the tool's balance is superb, two important features if you wield a cordless day in and day out. The tool lacks an onboard bit holder, but that's about all it lacks. The 3-1/2 amp batteries are ventilated, so they last longer, delivering up to 1,200 charges and recharges. This drill is a smart buy for plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and even woodworkers--in short, anyone who wants a small, compact drill that packs a lot of torque and is built to last. The package includes a 55-minute universal charger and hard-plastic carrying case. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Compact and lightweight for all-day use
• Two 3.5 amp Ni-MH battery packs for longer run time
• Delivers 390 in./lbs. of torque
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck offers big-bit capacity
• 55-minute charge saves time

Reviews (27)

The Best Kept Secret in Cordless Drills
I've owned or used a lot of cordless drills, from Black and Decker (ugh), Porter Cable, DeWalt, Milwaulkee, Makita and others, but I'd never heard of the Panasonic until a friend who does a lot of decks introduced me to it. He was using the earlier 12 volt model, but everything I discovered in using that drill applies to this one as well.

Panasonic isn't thought of as a power tool company, but their cordless drills are the best I've ever used, bar none. They've got the fastest recharge rate- 15 minutes- and that translates to more time drilling and less time recharging. It also translates to longer battery life; the less time spent charging, the less the heat buildup, and that's what kills these batteries. I know my friend has been using his on a daily basis for over five years with the original battery. The Panasonic drills also seem to get more useful drilling out of a single charge, something that recent tests by one magazine confirm.

My current 1/2" Makita is still going strong, but if it should happen to give up the ghost, I'm replacing it with a Panasonic.

Best Drill - but battery life question
I purchased the original 3.0 amp-hour 15.6 drill in winter 1999. The drill has always perfomed flawlessly and easliy had the best run time in comparison to 12 volt Makita's and 14.4 volt Dewalts I had used previously. I built two small boats out of white oak with this drill (all drilling and screwing) as my only drill. This included numerous 2 1/2" hole sawing through 3/4" particle board temporary framing. The drill is awesome.

My "but" comes with the battery life. Both of my batteries were shot by early 2002, with a total life of just over 2-1/2 years. There is no way I put 1,200 charge cycles into these batteries, more like 2 charges per battery per week. The run time usually last for almost a full day of boat work. That equates to approximately 260 charges. I dont know why Panasonic is advertising 1,200 charges I know my previous 14.4 Dewalt was slightly better for battery life, but the old Makita was much better. Is it the Ni-Mh battery that does not hold up over time, or maybe the batteries should always be inside, not in the varing temperatures of the garage.

With that said, I will be purchasing the new 3.5 amp-hour version. I just get irked that 2 replacement batteries cost as much as the whole new kit. Panasonic should make new batteries more affordable, because now I have two great drills and chargers, but only 2 batteries. Yup, bend over for the "lord of the landfill".

Highly Recommended
One of the top tools I have ever purchased. Runs like a sewing machine. Plently of power, it has never stalled out, and I have been using it for over one year. The chuck is excellent. The drill is light weight and easy to hold over long periods of time.

A terrific tool
Amzingly powerful, I've never been able to stall it. I have yet to run a battery dead, even after heavy use, I just recharge 'em anyway, and they don't lose charge when idle.

I misplaced it in New Jersey, and was without it when I needed to drive some screws. All I had at hand was my good 'ol Milwaukee half inch, corded. I sure missed the light weight and power of the Panasonic and the instant electric brake. The huge motor of the "big Red one" seemed to coast forever after releasing the trigger.

Got my EY6432 back a few days later, and sold the Red one I'd had for 10 years on eBay! (for $90)

The Panasonic has so much power, I'll not need a cord drill ever again.

A great deal
Powerful and precise, no slipping, and gets into every nook, cranny and corner. This PANASONIC CORDLESS is indestructible. I can't tell you how many times I've dropped or knocked this thing over. I've used it on my car, on just about every part of my house. And for the price that Amazon is asking, every professional or handiman should have one on their workbenches. ... Read more

Features

• Includes NST2018, NHT518, NS118, 3-18 volt batteries, a 3-port charger, the storage station and all wall mounting hardware
• Easily mountable storage station that makes all three products easily stored
• All products use the same 18-volt batteries
• Battery charger can charge all 3 included batteries at the same time
• Part of the Black and Decker 18-volt products' system

Reviews (5)

Black & Decker CCC3000 does what it says it'll do
I have an acre lawn with lots of landscaping, and this is perfect for my needs. It does take more than one battery pack to trim my whole yard, but with 3 interchangable packs, it is no challenge for it. And with 18 volts, the power provided is more than adequate for the yard. The blower is powerful and makes my yard look much neater, and the hedge trimmer is great. Along with an edge hog electric edger I purchased this year, I have all the tools to make a manicured lawn. You can't beat the price of this set of tools either. All 3 items can be purchased seperatly, but you'd pay quite a bit more for them doing that.

Does Just What I Want
Tried all three units. The guard on the trimmer serves as a trim guide. The trimmer cuts through the suckers that sprout at the base of harvested trees. The blower is just fine for clearing debris from the porch and deck. Can't get much easier. Don't worry much about dead batteries. With the three supplied, normal use is not a problem. If I REALLY want heavy duty (for the few times I need it) gas is the way to go. But who wants the stink and bother?? For the price I paid, my son was amazed the wacker had an auto line feed.

Great tools, great convenience
The tools themselves worked great. I was pleasantly surprised at how powerful the blower was. The line trimmer did an acceptable trimming job, and actually did great at the edging work. The hedge trimmer make quick work of my low hanging tree branches.

I loved the convenience of the two hanging units, one for the tools themselves, and one for the charging unit. Helps to keep an organized garage.

Highly recommend this set for the typical homeowner.

very happy and pleased
Have used this set for the first time the other day and am very happy to say all three tools work great. the ease of use of cordless is just fantastic! The trimmer worked great on ivy and though I feel a little like I sold out with the blower (can't stand the pollution; noise and exhaust) it is quiet and if used responsibly is great to have for those hard to reach/sweep areas. I would highly recommend.

great "bang for the buck" for the AVERAGE home-owner
for the owner of a "modest" yard,..this is an INCREDIBLE bang for the buck. the weed trimmer and the hedge trimmer did their jobs excellently and the sweeper exceeded my expectations to the Nth degree. ALL THREE tools were up-to-the-task of trimming, hedging, edging and sweeping. i was MOST concerned about battery life. i manicured my entire yard with ALL THREE tools with nary a gasp from the battery (15-20 minutes use from each,..NOT counting pauses between "uses"). the package comes with a 3-station battery charger AND a "hanging station" for all three tools (PLUS,..you can pick up an extra 18 volt battery or two at your local megastore IF you need it [for large yards]). i could not be happier.....weeds and grass got whacked, my various hedges got trimmed AND my carport and driveway were cleared of debris in a matter of moments. AND....THE NOISE....DID I MENTION THE NOISE??? THAT'S BECAUSE THESE ARE VERY QUIET, NEIGHBORHOOD-FRIENDLY POWER TOOLS. i am quite satisfied and would HIGHLY recommend the CCC3000 kit to ANYONE with "fairly" modest lawn care needs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Power, power and more power! The 18-volt 1/2-inch hammer drill/driver's high-torque motor churns out an impressive 500 inch-pounds of torque—imagine the jobs it could tackle. We were surprised by how good it feels in hand, thanks, we think, to its neatly balanced design that places the handle toward the center of the tool. A nice touch is the ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for a superb hold on your bit. And the all-metal, three-speed transmission is so innovative that DeWalt patented it. All we know is that this is one powerhouse of a hammer drill/driver, no matter what mode it's in. The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting. The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw's easy to adjust and the scale's clear. If you're often working in tight spaces, you'll appreciate the design of the right-angle drill, which spans just 4-1/2 inches. Still, it's got two speed ranges (0-500 and 0-1,500 rpm) and reverse, and it packs 310 inch-pounds of torque. We like the multi-grip trigger, especially for cramped quarters. The grinder's hardworking with a nice three-position side handle. Kudos to DeWalt for the metal gear case and the longer life it'll give this grinder. Finally, the flashlight's neck is super flexible, shedding light in just about any direction for up to three hours. This is a great collection of tools, essential for the contractor and perfect for the skilled do-it-yourselfer.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Ultra-light, 4-1/2-inch long right angle drill delivers 310 in.-lbs. of torque for ample power in very tight quarters
• Kit also features a cut-off tool for cutting and grinding, a flexible neck flashlight and more
• 1/2-inch drill/driver/hammer-drill with 500 in.-lbs. of maximum torque for heavy-duty applications
• 6-1/2-inch circular saw cuts 2- x 4-inch stock at 45 degrees in a single pass for speedy framing, decking and more
• Reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp for quick blade changes

Amazon.com

This is easily one of the most powerful hammerdrills on the market, packing 500 inch-pounds of torque and tackling the largest holes and heaviest screws. Whether you're going into studs or concrete, you'll appreciate the patented three-speed transmission that delivers an amazing 2,000 rpm at its max. In hammerdrill mode, get ready to be impressed with the speed you drill into concrete and other masonry at 34,000 blows per minute. Every inch of this tool is quality, from the 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck and its carbide jaws to the super-comfortable grip and beefy extended-life XRP 18-volt battery. Balance in hand is awesome, and the 360-degree auxiliary handle adjusts easily to just the right position.

The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well-balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting.

The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw is easy to adjust and the scale's clear. The jig saw's got some great features, the best of which is a keyless shoe that slides back and forth for cutting flush in tight spaces. The grip is super comfortable, and we like that you can choose between two orbital settings for quick, accurate cuts in soft stock and a straight setting for metal and other hard material. You'll love the built-in dust blower that keeps your sightline clear. The floodlight's handy, too, especially with its flexible neck for illumination in just about any direction. It's a great package deal.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• DW933 variable speed jig saw accepts both universal and T-shank blades
• DW919 18-volt flexible floodlight for hands-free use
• DC988 18-volt XRP 1/2" hammerdrill/drill/driver with 500 in-lbs of maximum torque and patented 3-speed all-metal transmission
• DC390 18-volt circular saw with 6 1/2", 16-tooth carbide blade and rip fence can cut 2x4's at a 45 degree angle in a single pass
• DC385 18-volt cordless reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp allows for quick blade change without touching blade or reciprocating shaft

Amazon.com

Power, power and more power! The 18-volt 1/2-inch hammer drill/driver's high-torque motor churns out an impressive 500 inch-pounds of torque—imagine the jobs it could tackle. We were surprised by how good it feels in hand, thanks, we think, to its neatly balanced design that places the handle toward the center of the tool. A nice touch is the ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for a superb hold on your bit. And the all-metal, three-speed transmission is so innovative that DeWalt patented it. All we know is that this is one powerhouse of a hammer drill/driver, no matter what mode it's in. The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting. The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw's easy to adjust and the scale's clear. The grinder's hardworking with a nice three-position side handle. Kudos to DeWalt for the metal gear case and the longer life it'll give this grinder. We're not as impressed with the impact gun, despite its 0 to 3,000 impacts per minute and how smoothly it runs without any kickback—-it's just that we'd like to see it take more than ¼-inch hex shanks. Finally, the flashlight's neck is super flexible, shedding light in just about any direction for up to three hours. This is a great collection of tools, essential for the contractor and perfect for the skilled do-it-yourselfer.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Lightweight, 6-1/2-inch long impact driver delivers 1,170 in.-lbs. of torque for optimal power in tight quarters
• Kit also features a cut-off tool for cutting and grinding, a flexible neck flashlight and more
• 1/2-inch drill/driver/hammer-drill has 500 in.-lbs. of maximum torque for heavy-duty applications
• 6-1/2-inch circular saw cuts 2- x 4-inch stock at 45 degrees in a single pass for speedy framing, decking and more
• Reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp for quick blade changes

Features

• Equipped with a Fluorescent Light for greater visibility
• Powerful 15 amp motor that handles every job easily.
• Electronic Speed Control monitors and maintains rpm under load.
• Soft Start feature for smoother and safer start-ups.
• Large turn base ensures a more stable work area.

Features

• DC410-6,500 RPM, 5/8"-11 spindle, ball bearing construction
• Type 1 (cut-off) and Type 27 (offset center) guards included
• DC988-DEWALT built motor for 500 in-lbs of maximun torque
• XRP Extended run-time batteries for long run-time and life
• DC988 - Patented 3-speed transmission: 0-450/0-1,450/0-2,000

Reviews (1)

Good Combo Hammer Drill and Cutoff Tool
I bought this kit mainly for the cutoff grinder tool.I have been using the cutoff tool as a grinder and it works great.This is for a field application were I needed cordless and this has lived up to my expectations.The battery life is good, the wieght and feel of the tool is great, and it is easy to use. Power for a cordless 4 1/2" grinder is excellent, you can lean pretty hard on it before it stalls, but remember it is cordless.The drill works well however I havn't used it enough to comment.Dewalt cordless tools are not cheap, however a good value. The reason for 4 not 5 stars is I want to see how long it lasts. ... Read more

Amazon.com

You need power, but you don’t want to hoist a ton. Here’s the answer. DeWalt’s revamped 18-volt compact drill/driver delivers on both counts, with a 1/2-inch chuck that grips beefy bits, an 18-position adjustable clutch, and a high-performance motor for the torque you need, packaged in a truly lightweight, comfortable drill. The variable speed has a high and low range for any application, and the reverse switch is right above the curved trigger for easy access. The included charger juices up a spent battery in an hour. We especially like the light weight, even more so because it doesn’t cost in the power department. Lots of pluses: on-board bit storage, two batteries, hard case. We think contractors will be pleased with this drill, especially after a long day.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 1/2" single sleeve keyless ratcheting chuck for tighter bit grip
• Compact size: fits into the tightest conditions
• Lightweight design (5.2 lbs.) minimizes user fatigue
• High performance motor delivers 450 in.-lbs. of maximum torque
• Dual speed range: 0-450 / 0-1,500 rpm delivers optimal performance

Reviews (8)

Four Years' Tough
I have two of these drills. Have used one or the other of them daily for three years this month. About time for a review. They are tough. I do not understand the comments about weak chucks or, in other places, about battery problems. My drills, their batteries and chargers have performed, as I say, on a daily basis for three years under all kinds of conditions and some very hard use without so much as a glitch. They have tremendous torque and staying power under continuous use. If you are going to shoot large screws or drive a big bit rapidly into very hard or though wood, brace the drill-driver's grip, battery end against your knee or thigh before you squeeze the trigger. You will have fewer wrist problems if you do--it has that kind of torque. Regarding one complaint, I would not use this driver with tiny drill bits; it just is not intended for that. It defies logic to do so. What it will do is take the heaviest work and drive large bits and sink big screws all day and just keep on going. An example: In the intense, 100 degree plus heat of one summer, two carpenter friends and I laid a 1700 sq foot subfloor of 2X6 T&G over 16" OC joists with two 3-1/2 inch screws to the joist, working as fast as we could all day for what seems now like several days. The wood was very tough, dense struc select Doug fir. When my two friends' drivers, one a Makita and one a Hitachi, got hot as pistols or their batteries needed recharging, whichever of the DeWalts I happened to be using could keep right on going. I would lend the other DeWalt to either guy while his driver recovered. I smoked those batteries, but by following the right charging procedures never had a failure. They both still take deep cycle charges and hold them well, after three years of hard use. One took a fourteen foot fall off a roof while mounted to another DeWalt tool, the battery taking the full impact on tamped crushed rock, and it still works as well as the others. Just read the instructions and you will not have trouble with the batteries. Quick charge when you have to, but balance that with long charges from a low state over the weekends. Never use the batteries while they are still warm or hot out of the charger, do not run them out completely--just nearly so, and do not repeatedly shallow charge them. Nicads will not last long with that kind of treatment. They take a "set" and will not charge deeply afterward. As for weak chucks, well, one incident does not make them all that way. When my drywall zipgun stripped its chuck, I picked up one of my DeWalt 18V drill-drivers and kept on going--for over 300 sheets of 1/2 and 5/8 inch drywall. The clutch and speed mechanisms work well enough that I had good control and could hang drywall almost as fast as with the zipgun. One caution regarding the clutches on these brutes: they require breaking in; don't be upset if they are hard to use at first. You can see from this what DeWalt 18V drill-drivers have done and can do, and still I have not had the slightest problem, though they look pretty beat up now. I do not think a single work day has passed in which I have not used one of the two. Now I have a whole lot of DeWalt HD 18V tools, because these two drill-drivers performed so well I was not afraid to buy into a lot of tools in the same line. I have had no trouble with any of them. You never lose them, either; that DeWalt yellow shouts at you from across the room, across the lot or from under a pile of tools and offcuts. When these go, I will buy more.

Great drill/driver
I have had this drill for about six months and am very happy with it. I am a homeowner so I can't speak as to how this drill would function during all day use. For projects around my house it has plenty of power although, like every other cordless tool I have used, it needs a little more time drilling/driving through hard wood. If I want to drill through something thick and tough, I used a beefier corded drill. So far, I have not noticed any of the battery life problems discussed by other reviewers.

I picked up a set of the Dewalt hex shank bits and have not noticed any slippage. The only time I have had a complaint with the drill was while using a hole saw to install locksets in two doors. Of the four holes, the bit slipped out of the chuck two times. Once I reinserted the hole saw it went right on through the door. I don't know if I didn't get the chuck tight enough or if the chuck just prefers the hex shank bits.

All in all a great drill. I can't imagine ever installing curtain rods, assembling bookcases, etc. with a corded drill and/or screwdriver again!

Yet another over-priced, under-achiever from big yellow
This drill is, in short, a dud. I bought it somewhat hesitantly on the recommendation of a friend. I had been looking at this and the Milwaukee and Bosch equivalents but went ahead and took the plunge. What a mistake. It seems to have sufficient torque but the chuck started to wobble almost immediately after only a few weeks of light use. It makes a grinding noise in the low speed setting that I can't seem to find and one of the batteries ... died after only 2-3 months use. Since then the charger .... has also given up making it cheaper to buy a whole new kit (probably what dewalt has in mind anyway). I have since bought the Milwaukee 0624-20 (kit 0624-24)and have been abusing that workhorse for over a year now with phenomenal results while this piece of crap collects dust on the shelf. Not only are the batteries ..... and charger .... cheaper to replace by some $40 but they also last a _lot_ longer. I wish now I had gone with my gut instinct in the first place. Save yourself a lot of grief and money and go for the Milwaukee. You will not be sorry.

quaility control
i have owned three of these drills over the last seven years,i was very impressed the first time i used the 18 volt drill about five years ago and immeadiatly bought one. since that time i have noticed a serious decline in craftsmanship and customer service on DeWalt's part. the chucks spin on expensive drill bits damaging the bit,the battery packs seem to have unreliable longievity issues. the final straw was a blown charger after approx. 40 hrs. plug in time,right in the middle of a elaborate garage remodel. i am going to start phaseing out my DeWalt cordless tools in my personal tool chest as well as the ones owned by the Parks and Recreation Dept. I am in charge of.

Good drill for the money
I purchased this drill as part of a drill/saw combo at Home Depot for $199 so go there for a better deal. I bought this drill to compliment the 18V Dewalt pistol handle drill I already have.

I know what your thinking, why do I need two drills? Have you every tried to drill/drive in between stud cavities with a pistol grip?? Pain in the bottom to do, so when I have that type of work to do I just grab this one, now onto my review.

Plenty of power for anything you may want to do, drives screws like a champ, drills through 4x4 PT with 1 1/2" spade bit with no problems. A great drill at a great price. Since I own their more expensive model I will point out the differences. No hammer action, only 2 speed(don't need the third speed), 2 piece chuck versus the 1 piece, and the handle doesn't have those nice rubber inserts.

Doesn't handle small bits that well due to the chuck design, and the trigger sticks a little when trying to slowly advance it.
One piece of advice, before you even use the drill for the first time grab some athletic tape(Walmart sells black athletic tape so it doesn't look retarded) and wrap it a couple of time around the handle. That improves the grip 100%, trust me.

Even though I did bash some things this is still a awesome drill. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Instead of throwing away old, dull bits, give them a checkup with the Drill Doctor and extend their life. Although drill-bit sharpening systems often fail to live up to our expectations, we're here to bear witness for the truth of the Drill Doctor's claims: it really does sharpen old bits in just a couple of minutes. The 750SP (also known as the Professional) works on conventional, split-point, and masonry bits from 3/32 to 3/4 inches in size. If you don't plan on sharpening anything larger than 1/2-inch bits, we recommend getting the 500SP instead; it's basically the same machine, minus the cost of the 3/4-inch chuck that comes with this model. Both models--the 500SP and the Professional 750SP--allow you to choose between a 118- and 135-degree sharpening angle. Operation is fairly simple, but to make sure no one has trouble figuring it out, the Drill Doctor comes with a how-to video. Anyone who frequently wears down drill bits is going to appreciate the savings this handy machine can offer. Using sharp bits instead of dull ones also increases the life of your drill, because sharper bits require less work to make the same hole. We only wish we'd found the Drill Doctor sooner. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Sharpens conventional point, split point, and masonry drill bit at 118- or 135-degree angles
• Two chucks accept 3/32- to 1/2-inch and 1/2- to 3/4-inch bit shafts
• Long-lasting Diamond wheel sharpens carbide, high-speed steel, standard, cobalt, and more
• Comes with how-to video

Reviews (33)

Drill Doctor DD750PK Precision Drill Bit Sharpene
There are many good things about this product. When I called tech support with a problem (chuck sticking), I got a human being with a knowledgable answer (loosen a few overtorqued screws) in a matter of minutes. On standard drill bits, it works very well.

However, I got it mostly to sharpen hex-base drill bits, as I use these drill bits with a quick-change chuck all the time. And I basically destroyed several bits (well, they were dull anyway) finding out that the chuck supplied with this unit simply can't get a proper grip on hex-base drill bits. They will be out of alignment, which means it won't work, at all. You just grind off random bits of your drill bit at random angles, resulting in a useless bit. Well, I _was_ able to sharpen a few of the bigger hex bits, but the 1/16", 1/8", and 3/16" bits were trashed.

So for my main use--sharpening hex-base bits--this fails pretty badly. If I'd known this, I wouldn't have gotten it. (Of course none of the marketing information or tech support information mentions this--if they did, they might lose some sales.) So I'll keep it, but quite disappointed. And no, tech support didn't have any suggestions for how to fix the problem.

So, if you want to sharpen small hex bits, give this a pass. If you don't use hex bits, it is a good deal. And the video they supply is excellent for teaching you how to use it.

Your mileage may vary.

The BEST Drill Sharpening System
Over the years I have collected hundreds of drill bits that served me well when new. But with each project I found myself looking for a sharp bit to complete the task. I needed a repeatable way to sharpen my drill bits. After extensive research and product reviews I purchased the Drill Doctor 750. It did EVERYTHING it promised. It sharpened both small and large bits, it removed all nicks and restored the cuting edge perfectly. The actual process is simple and quick. The video gives good instructions, but practice makes perfect, and I actually enjoyed sharpening all my old bits. I highly recommend the Drill Doctor. It delivers on its promise every time.

Pays for itself quickly
Glad I FINALLY bought one!
With the price of drill bits rising every day this baby will pay for itself quickly. Sharpens bit as good as or better than new. If you think you doing a good job sharpening bits on a bench grinder, you'll be suprised. Don't know how the hail I ever got along without one of these. Will never have to use a dull bit again. An absolute NECESSITY for anyone working with steel. I would suggest getting an extra wheel upon purchase because once you sharpen about 250 of your dead/dull bits after it arrives, you'll most likely need a new wheel.

The Good, the bad, and the great
I just received my Drill Doctor 750SPK and was surprised to find that it came with a carrying case which was listed by Amazon.com as an accessory. The first time I used the Drill Doctor it performed perfectly and I was inclined to sharpen even drills that I had previously considered sharp. For normal drill sharpening, I would rate it as 5-star. The only problem I had was with split tips. The drill holder does not slide smoothly in and out of the guide. It requires unnecessay force as far as I am concerned, however with extra effort I can sharpen split tips adequately. I will keep the unit since most of my sharpening is for standard tips. When and if I want to do many split tips, I will bore the guide out a little and and install a "pop-out" spring to move the tip back off the grinding wheel.

Incidently, one reviewer said that he received screwdriver tips instead of drills with his unit. I did not find that to be the case. I received the drills.

NO MORE DULL Excuses!!
This is product is everything good all have said about it. Order fulfill by Amazon - excellent! Unit well packed, handy carry case is superb.
Set up and use - I watched the video 1 & 1 1/2 times. Getting the drill set up properly is the whole equation - and is easy. I have sharpened both angle configurations, and split a few points just to see how easy it is to do. SNAP!
I didn't realize how bad a shape I was in until I cleaned up every bit I owned. I mostly work wood and don't demand a lot of twist drills here, but a few metal things came up and I realized I had a sour batch of drills. Problems solved. Everyone needs one of these....or maybe I keep it a secret and make a few $$ fixing up my neighbors tools. It would almost be like stealing. Maybe I'll do demo's and sell units. ... Read more

Features

• Features 3-Mode operation; "Rotation Only", "Hammer Only" or "Hammering with Rotation"
• Powerful 7.0 AMP motor yet weighs only 6.0lbs
• Impact Energy (2.0ft. Lbs.); Power-to-Weight Ratio (.32)
• Positive Lock ensures that the bit is securely fastened
• 0-1,100 RPM and 0-4,500 BPM (2.7 joules of impact energy) for demanding applications

Features

• Part of the DeWalt 18-volt system of tools
• 310 in./lbs. of torque for increased applications
• 0-500/0-1,500 rpm for increased user flexibility
• Variable speed and reversing for greater accuracy, control, and convenience
• Multi-grip trigger can be used in the least amount of space

Reviews (6)

Color yellow- lemon
This tool worked great for about three months, then while driving a#10 sheet metal screw the trigger froze in the on position, smoke started coming out of the battery pack, the only way to stop it was to disconnect the battery. I'm a cabinetmaker and this is one of the better right angle drills I've owned, it's a bit heavy and the forward and reverse switch is hard to use. The batteries last a long time, I can be on the job all day without charging them,nice.The keyless chuck is one of the best I've used, I hope this is just one of those lemons you get every now and again because I was really begining to like this tool.

Even better with a 1/2 chuck
Out of necessity and because it has ample power, I had been planning to convert this drill to a 1/2" chuck for some time, but just recently got around to it.
Since the DW960 comes with a 3/8" capacity chuck, I assumed that it would be mounted on a 3/8" X 24 TPI spindle as most 3/8" drills are.
Before buying a 1/2" chuck with a reduced 3/8" X 24 TPI mount, I decided to remove the original chuck and check the spindle to be sure.
With the chuck removed, I found that the DW960 has a 1/2" X 20 TPI spindle, which is the standard spindle size for mounting a 1/2" chuck.
I wouldn't bother changing out the chuck on my older model DW966 14.4V right angle drill because it doesn't really have enough power to make it worth the expense, but I decided to check the spindle size on it anyway. It too has the 1/2" X 20 TPI spindle.
Dewalt most likely does this to give the short spindles more strength, not to allow for an upgrade to a 1/2" chuck. Nevertheless, I really need this drill to be a 1/2", so I purchased a Jacobs made Dewalt OEM style keyless chuck from McMaster and installed it on the drill. It fit perfectly, actually better than the original did, and for my work needs, the extra chuck capacity makes all the difference.
I would never attempt to use this right angle drill as hard as my straight 1/2" cordless drill, but when working in a tight space, it's great to finally be able to use the DW960 with my Greenlee hole saws larger than 7/8", which have 7/16" shanks. This was the main reason for wanting to ditch the standard 3/8" chuck.
I've used it with hole saws up to 3-1/2" in 1X and 2-1/2" in 2X material. This seems to be completely within the drills ability without producing any unusual motor strain or heating. Understandably, I'm sure Dewalt would not approve of this modification and if the motor or gear train does eventually end up as toast, I'm okay with the fact that it will be my fault, not Dewalt's.
With that being said, it now appears that I can finally stop waiting for Dewalt to produce an 18V cordless 1/2" right angle drill.

DW960K-2 18V Right Angle Drill:
First the issues...

I bought this drill kit about two month's ago and so far it has performed very well on the job.
I was somewhat concerned to find that even with the fairly high price tag the drill and batteries are both being made completely in Mexico. From my experience, this usually results in a noticeable drop in quality. I suppose this is just a sign of the times and I should be getting used to it by now.
Also, after years of waiting for Dewalt to produce an 18V RAD unit, I still feel somewhat let down by the fact that it only has a 3/8" chuck capacity, especially since almost all of the trades really need a good 1/2" cordless RAD. The 18V RAD that Milwaukee makes is virtually useless and this Dewalt drill could probably spin a 1/2" chuck under most realistic workload conditions.
The two NAFTA batteries included are marked only as XR, not XR-Plus as all recent Dewalt 18V batteries manufactured in Japan are. I'm not sure if this means anything, but it did catch my attention.

And now the praise...

I have owned the almost identical DW966 14.4V version of this drill for several years and it has been worked hard but was always underpowered for heavier drilling tasks such as boring holes in 2X studs and joists or drilling into wall cavities from a basement or crawlspace below or an attic above, even when using spade/paddle type bits. Although the owners manual lists the maximum hole drilling capacities as the same for both the 14.4V and 18V, the new 18V DW960K has 100 inch-pounds more torque and several hundred more RPM's in high speed than the 14.4V model and is much more at ease with the type of heavier work described above. This drill will never replace your corded RAD for continuous heavy use on larger jobs but is great for smaller jobs where you need to drill several holes and don't want to waste time dragging out an extension cord and hunting for a distant electrical outlet. The added cordless advantages of mobility and safety are especially important when working in a damp crawl space or cramped attic area. The DW960 is only slightly larger and just a little heavier than the older 14.4V drill so it can still easily get into the tight places for drilling or driving screws but has lots more of what tradespersons need most, that being, torque and speed with the ability to interchange batteries with all your other DeWalt 18V tools. Overall it seems to be a well made tool and all is fine for now, but I can only wait and see if the NAFTA product durability will be equal to or better than my older Dewalt drill.

Customer Service
A previous review complained about DeWalt customer service phone number not answering.
I just called them at that number and they answered immediately. I got my support specialist and my problem is solved.
Try again.

lack of quality control
I recieved my new DW960k heavy duty cordless drill driver 20 Nov. 03. The next day, FRI. 21 Nov. I took it to work to try it.I put a newer fully charged battery in the tool, there was an imediate bright spark within the drill and it began smoking heavily. Once the fire went out I put a battery back in the drill and now it runs full blast without squezzing the trigger.
I have tryed to contact 1-800-4-dewalt but they aren't answering the phone. It appears that it is better to purchase your tools where they can be tested. I now own every 18 volt cordless tool that dewalt makes, several of some, and I wonder what I am going to have to go through to get this drill replaced, not repaired. I did not purchase a reconditioned tool. ... Read more

Features

• All-metal ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for the highest grip torque on bits
• Milwaukee-built motor provides up to 495 in./lbs. of torque
• Up to 50% more run-time than competitive products
• Milwaukee's exclusive reversible battery allows users to adjust balance and get into tight spaces
• Limited Warranty

Reviews (6)

NOT Made in USA
Received the Milwaukee 0622-24 Kit today. Haven't used it yet. It MAY be a fine tool, but it is NOT made in USA. The drill is made in the Czech Republic, the batteries in Japan and the charger in China. Be forewarned that you are paying a lot for the name and if it is important to you to buy American-made products, this is NOT one! I'm very disappointed and will not buy Milwaukee again.

Best Cordless drill I've ever owned
I thought I had a good cordless drill until I purchased this Milwaukee 0622-24 1/2" drill. This is without a doubt, the most powerful,easy to handle,high torque cordless drill I have ever owned.Period. Everything about this drill is heavy duty including the chuck which is easy to use one handed.If you're looking for a cordless drill that can do it all, look no further,no manufacturer out there can compare with this Milwaukee and best of all, Made in the good ol USA. Five year warranty on this tool.The battery life is long lasting and recharges in only one hour.

I highly recommend this Milwaukee, you won't be disappointed with this titan. No one else come close in quality and features.

YOUR SEARCH IS OVER!!!!
I have owned a Makita, De Walt, Porter Cable, Bosch, and Panasonic 18 volt cordless drills. The Bosch was hard to part with but, I realized I made the right decision after I bought the Milwaukee. It is simply the lightest, most durable 18V drill I have ever used. The batteries last longer, the torque is better, the chuck is indestructable, and the "MADE IN THE USA" stamp pretty much sold me. I have dropped it, left it out in the cold, left it in the heat, and have built 12 decks with it. Only twice did I even have to use the other battery. Bosch comes very close. In my opinion, the others don't even compare.

Home Owner in Fort Erie, ON. Canada
For the last 2 years, I have been busy! I mean, REALLY busy, renovating our house. From decks, to fences - inside jobs / outside jobs. Bottom line: I have "wasted" a couple of drills in the process and wanted the best. NO DISAPPOINTMENTS HERE. Got a couple of more projects going, and this "piece" has performed better than expected. Aside form the Milwaukee name, this thing gives you a feeling of confidence that simply states "There is nothing too tough to handle". A nice feeling when you don't want to be interupted by a failing tool. Nice work, Milwaukee! I'm on my way to buy the 11 amp orbital Sawzall based on my experience with this "work of excellence"!

Heady duty is right
I bought this drill to replace my craftsman 18 volt drill that has taken a beating from woodworking projects to home improvement projects. I must say milwaukee lived up to its name for Heavy Duty. You can tell the first time you fire it up it was built to withstand the harshest abuse. I would reccommend this drill for anyone who can appreciate quality craftsmanship and rock solid performance every time. ... Read more

Features

• Includes (2) Ni-MH batteries, multi-voltage charger and case
• Two piece D-31 motor for easy serviceability
• All metal gear transmission for smooth, efficient power
• Shift lock drive instantly changes from drill to driver
• 2.6 Ah Ni-MH batteries for greater capacity and longer run time

Reviews (2)

Excellent drill!
I was recently forced into the market for a new drill when my old 14 volt Dewalt drill/driver finally ended its long career. I needed a drill that could be used for work every day and also came with batteries that would not run out of juice multiple times in one project. I have always believed in Dewalt, but with all the reviews in magazines (and friends) being negative on the new line of drills, I decided to do my research. I ended up choosing between Makita and the new Ridgid brands of drills. I bought a Ridgid drill from my local home center due to the fact that they did not carry the 18v Makita. After one day of use, I noticed a spark coming out the side of the drill due to the brushes in the engine. The drill performed very well even with the sparks but still had two additional flaws: battery life and weight. I went on Amazon as soon as I returned home to look into Makita drills. All of my saws and screw guns are Makita and I have never once had a problem. To my delight, Amazon not only had the drill on sale but it also came with a quality tool belt, work gloves, Amazon discount and a Makita rebate!
The bottom line is simply that this Makita is better made than the other drills. It has externally removable brushes that no other drill, at least that I know of offers. The drill is much lighter than others and the batteries can't be matched by anyone but Panasonic. This drill is just an amazing value, especially on Amazon. I would recommend this drill to anyone who is indecisive on what brand to buy for professional use.

Excellent Drill for the professional or DIY guy
This is one of the Best Drills I have ever used...HEAVY DUTY...WELL BALANCED...STONG MOTOR....AWSOME BATTERIES...and to top it off...AMAZON HAD THE BEST DEAL in town on this model.
For $174.99...I got the 18V Mforce Drill,Case,Charger,2 batteries, a $75.00 Tool Belt, $40.00 Work Gloves, a $20.00 coupon on my next Makita purchase.

WHAT A DEAL....I highly recommend this drill to any Professional or DIY GUY. ... Read more

Features

• DC385 has 1-inch strole and 2,900 spm
• DC988 drill/driver/hammerdrill has 500 in.-lbs. of maximum torque
• Exclusive 3 - speed all metal transmission
• DC385 with keyless blade clamp for quick blade changes

Features

• 1/2" ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws prevents bits from slipping
• Superior ergonomics provides optimal balance, comfort, and control
• DeWalt built high torque motor provides 500 in./lbs. of maximum torque
• Exclusive 3-speed transmission features a maximum 3rd speed at 2,000 rpm
• Hammerdrill mode: 34,000 bpm drills faster holes in masonry applications

Amazon.com Review

While there are a number of rotary tools on the market made by a host of different manufacturers, the Dremel Moto Tool is the one they all strive to copy. Dremel's MultiPro variable-speed model is great for a huge range of projects, from home improvement tasks to hobbies and crafting. It has a continuously adjustable speed range from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, which allows the user to effectively work with materials as soft as balsa wood and as hard as ceramics. The flexible shaft that comes with this model is great for working in tight spots many rotary tools can't touch. The kit also comes with an assortment of accessories and a handy carrying case. Others may copy it, but Dremel has been making rotary tools so long they've come close to perfecting the idea. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Variable speed, from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm
• Quick-change collet
• Flexible shaft attachment, 77 bits, and two clamps
• 5-year warranty

Reviews (16)

My Flexible friend !
Before I bought the corded Dremel Multi I used to use hand tools. The results were good but took time to produce. I then saw an advert on the television for the Dremel. I then went to a tool shop to see it and it's rivals. The only other competitor was the Black and Decker corded Wizard. The wizard lost out to the Dremel due to it's narrower range of operating speeds and it's greater size. The Dremel also had a far greater range of accessories to supplement it's use.

>I really appreciate the way that the Dremel can do what it does so quickly so well. It can carve letters, polish to a very high standard and grind metal as well as the capability to engrave metals as well. The fact that it does not take up a lot of room, especially when you consider the wide range of capabilities it has.

>To turn the Dremel on you slide the switch to one of the numbers on the scale, the further along you go the faster the shaft rotates. You set the speed according to the one recommended in the instruction manual which has pictures to guide you as well. You then apply the tool to the surface you are working on and gently do the polishing etc., but not too hard as it can damage the tool.

>I had my Dremel fitted with a optional chuck which makes bit changes faster and more convenient than the standard collet bits. You just loosen the chuck, put a bit in, re-tighten the chuck and select the right speed and you are ready to go. It also has a decent grip for easy and comfortable holding. It is quite simply a joy to use for craft. Special shafts can be fitted to the end as well, so there is little that has been missed out.

> The flexible shaft lets me work in places where the tool can't be inserted especially some places in my jeep! It's also easier to hold the flexible shaft when working on small workpieces like fishing lures etc.

The Speed is the Key
This is a fantastic tool for a home owner or craft enthusiast. The range of small tasks that you can achieve with the Multipro is unbelievable and easy, even for an untrained person.

This kit includes a flexi-shaft, which helps you get into corners by extending the accessory bit using a long flexible shaft. You can buy the shaft separately if you already own the tool, but it's cheaper to get it with the kit if you're buying for the first time. The carrying case is attractive, and fits everything with room to spare.

Some of the things you can do with your Dremel tool include drilling holes to hang pictures, putting lot numbers on your house, engraving your initials on items you don't want stolen, sharpening scissors and lawn mower blades, cleaning jewellery or golf clubs, giving sticking doors and windows a quick repair, cleaning silverware or brass or even mag rims, installing your car stereo and adding auto accessories to dress your car, trimming nails that are sticking up, regrooving damaged screw heads, sanding in hard to reach places, and so on.

It is however a small tool, so you shouldn't expect it to sand a dining table like a belt sander, or cut out a large wood pattern like a scroll saw.

You need a tiny spanner to change accessories, but it's included in the kit, along with different mandrels to hold the bits securely. There is a wide range of accessories available for even more tasks, and a great additional purchase is the tile cutting attachment, which allows you to do bathroom tile repairs with a lot less mess and guess work.

The secret to the Dremel is the speed, with a range of varying speeds up to 35,000 rpm, which you control yourself. The instruction booklet is very detailed, and gives you lots of tips. Dremel also has an amazing website, with step by step how-to guides.

Every home should have a Dremel Multipro

Works well for some things, doesn't do everything they say
My wife bought one of these for me as a gift. I had mentioned a couple of times it might be nice to have one... I don't know what came over me. The tool works great for details and doesn't work for much else. I have used it for a number of projects where I needed to file or grind something small... screws in a part that were 1/64th of an inch too long kind of thing. It works great for that, I don't have to apply much preassure to the item being ground. I tried using it to polish a pot (it's in the list of projects to do with your dremel) ahhhh... don't bother, threw polish compound everywhere because of the speed of the tool. Works far faster with a rag by hand. Or better yet... a big buffing wheel on a bench grinder. Works well for engraving too. Haven't tried it for much else. I think my wife will end up using it more for crafts than I will for the kind of stuff I do.

A must have tool
I disagree with the negative reviews. A dremel is not a benchgrinter or an orbital polisher, etc, etc. It IS 3 pounds of power concentrated into a 2 oz bucket. If you use it for what it's meant for, it's great. In the fashion of any MultiTool, like a leatherman, it has multiple funtions in ONE tool. While a dedicated tool might do a better job in certain circumstances, it can only perform ONE funtion.

This ol' Dremel done cut me a lot of stuff
This ol' Dremel is a mighty clever tool. I used it out in the woodshed to whittle me a slingshot out of a big ol' branch from a tree. Its also good to keep Pappy away when he sneaks up on me back in that ol' woodshed. Pappy sure do love his moonshine, and it makes him a bit frisky, I reckon.

Once I done shot me a possum back behind Ol' Man Stapleton's barn and that ol' Dremel came in mighty handy, let me tell ya. I got Ol' Mr. Possum's fur coat off of him lickety split. That sharp ol' Dremel took the head and legs off as fine as ya please. Threw Mr. Possum in the pot, me an' the kinfolk had some mighty fine vittles that night, let me tell ya.

This Dremel is also mighty useful for some doctorin' at home. Mama's prone to corns n' bunions, and we ain't have no money for the doctor. So I whipped out that ol' Dremel lickety-split and cut them bunions right off of Momma's foot! You shoulda heard her holla! But them nasty ol' bunions never came back, see Momma?

Only thing I don't like about this ol' Dremel is it sounds kinda like a pig squealin'. I reckon I don't mind, cause then people don't never know if I'm out back whittlin', or havin' me some fun with some lost campers or other city slickers! Yeee Haw! ... Read more

Features

• Limited Warranty
• All-metal ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for the highest grip torque on bits
• Milwaukee-built motor provides up to 495 in./lbs. of torque
• Up to 50% more run-time than competitive products
• Milwaukee's exclusive reversible battery allows users to adjust balance and get into tight spaces

Reviews (15)

You'll never look at a yellow tool again
I bought this drill after reading several reviews in woodworking magazines and this forum. There just aren't enough adjectives to describe what a work of art and workhorse this drill is. Enough power to satisfy even Tim Allen and yet it doesn't have a bulky, over-weight feel. From the lowest torque settings all the way to the hammer function, the gear action is as smooth as glass and it _never_ feels like it's running out of gas even drilling into hard metal. You can't go wrong with this tool. Once you use it, you'll be a Milwaukee convert for life.

This is what five stars are all about!
What a pleasure to use a very well made tool. Milwaukee's reputation for heavy-duty quality is again backed up by this top-of-the-line cordless. I've been driving screws with it building a shed, and the battery life is really impressive. Grip feel, balance, torque and overall sense of quality are great.

A quick rant about tool cost (and it's not like Milwaukee is particularly expensive in the first place): I'm constantly amazed at people who will pay $25 for a meal, a cab ride or a few drinks without thinking twice, but will balk at paying a bit more for a tool that will last a lifetime! Think long-term: Reward excellence; treat yourself and buy quality -- whatever the brand.

Performance, performance, performance...
If you are looking for a cordless that can, look no further. I bought it primarily on it's performance specifications, and have not been disappointed. A big factor for me was speed. My old model topped out at 1300, and most of the competitors are in the 1400 to 1550 range (other than a yellow 3-speed model). I appreciate a unit that can twist at 1700 rpm but still have plenty of torque when you need it at the low end.

Another important spec for me was the battery life. Haven't had it long enough to judge yet, but I presume the 2.4 ah should need less charging.

In addition to motor & battery performance, I was highly interested in chuck performance. (This is probably the main reason I wanted to relegate my old unit to backup). The Milwaukee chuck has performed wonderfully, gripping shanks of all sizes like a mad pit bull. I also appreciate the reversable battery mount, which amazingly eases the hand strain when you are drilling overhead( By lowering the center of gravity to below your grip).

My only possible reservation about this model is durability. It just doesn't look as rugged as the Bosch model I looked at. I don't plan on dropping it, but you never know when your going to set it down in the wrong place at the wrong time. Another reviewer said he dropped it from a step ladder with no ill effect, however, so maybe it's tougher than it looks.

Simply the best
One of the finest tools i've ever used. reliable with Power to spare. A bit on the expensive side but well worth it. 2 batteries included.

My Hammer Drill can beat up your Hammer Drill...
I bought this beast about a year ago to replace a DeWobble DW959K-2 (please see my review of that, uhh, *worthy* offering). This should have been my first choice but I let a _friend_ talk me into the yellow. This is quite simply the best 18V HD on the market. It's got more torque (495 in/lbs, a little over 40 ft/lbs!!) than many corded drills and as one reviewer already noted, will probably sprain your wrist before it gives up driving. It is a _bit_ on the heavy side but no more than any comparable Bosch or yellow equivalent and the batteries are cheaper to replace and longer lasting than either of those. So far I've used it to build a deck, rennovate two bathrooms, too many woodworking projects to list and I'm still using the original two batteries. I've dropped it numerous times, more than once onto concrete and one time for sure it landed right on the chuck, and it still works/sounds like brand new.

One of the features I really like is the reversible battery pack. They make getting into tighter places (like in between joists) easier. The squeeze buttons on the battery packs do require a bit of finger/thumb strength but they aren't much problem for me and have gotten easier with time. The five year warranty is also nice, I think only Hitachi offers a similar warranty.

If you're a contractor or someone who makes their living with their tools, this should be the only drill you look at. You'll never even look at anything yellow again. If you're a weekend warrior, it may be a bit on the expensive side but look at it this way: you'll only ever have to buy one. ... Read more

Features

• High performance drilling speed
• 18-volt 3.5Ah Ni-MH battery for high speed drilling
• High torque drilling capability
• Lightweight ergonomic design

Reviews (1)

the seceret weapon
As a union journey man plumber I am always looking for the best product to increase my productivity. THis is the best Drill I have ever owned. Lightweight, Long Lasting and the Quality of being manufactured in Japan, not China like alot of its competitors. The battery technology and warranty are what really sold me. Having batteries go bad from overcharging or heat, the SoCal summers, is a big problem down here. THey have a warranty on the batteries for like 2000 charges. That is like 3 years, incredible. Also a problem is theft of tools and with the Panasonic I am the only person on the job with the tools so there is no confusion or misplacing of my tools. The only drawback is that Panasonic doesnt offer a full line of battery compatible cordless saws and lights yet. AS for this deal specifically where else can you get a top of the line Drill with 50$ in rebates. I paid the same for an 18v what most are paying for a 14.4v and mine is full of high technology. I completely reccomend this drill the the serious professional. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Power, power and more power! The 18-volt 1/2-inch hammer drill/driver's high-torque motor churns out an impressive 500 inch-pounds of torque—imagine the jobs it could tackle. We were surprised by how good it feels in hand, thanks, we think, to its neatly balanced design that places the handle toward the center of the tool. A nice touch is the ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for a superb hold on your bit. And the all-metal, three-speed transmission is so innovative that DeWalt patented it. All we know is that this is one powerhouse of a hammer drill/driver, no matter what mode it's in. The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting. The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw's easy to adjust and the scale's clear. Finally, the flashlight's neck is super flexible, shedding light in just about any direction for up to three hours. This is a great collection of tools, essential for the contractor and perfect for the skilled do-it-yourselfer.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• DC385 with keyless blade clamp for quick blade changes
• DW919 flexible floodlight for hands-free use
• DC988 drill/driver/hammerdrill has 500 in.-lbs. of maximum torque
• Exclusive 3 - speed all metal transmission
• DC390 cuts 2X4's at 45 degrees in a single pass