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

• 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

• 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 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

• Variable speed control / reversible
• 18- stage clutch plus drill position
• Compact, Light Weight, Ergonomic Design
• 2 - 1.2Ah Ni-Cd battery packs
• 30 minute quick charging system

Amazon.com Review

Impressively compact, lightweight, and comfortable to use, Panasonic's 12-volt drill/driver fits into tight spaces where other bulkier drills won't. The 3 amp NiMH batteries deliver impressive 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 293 inch-pounds of torque, while the motor's speed control allows full torque delivery at any speed, with dual speed ranges of 0 to 400 and 1 to 1,300 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 8-3/16 inches) and how comfortable it feels in your hand. The soft-pad grip provides extra cushion and the 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. 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 two of Panasonic's long-lasting 3 amp NiMH batteries, a universal charger, and a hard-plastic carrying case. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Compact and lightweight for comfortable all-day use
• Two 3.5 Amp NiMH battery packs for long run time
• Delivers 293 in./lbs. of torque
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck handles larger bits
• 55-minute charge save time

Reviews (6)

Best cordless ever
I've been using cordless drills since they first came out 25yrs ago. I've had 7.6 volt skill, 9 volt B&D, 12 volt skill, 12 volt bosch, 14.4 Riobi, 14.4 DeWalt and 18 volt Bosch and the 12 volt Panasonic is the best. It's light and the batteries hold a charge longer then any other. I use my drills all day everyday and I have to change from driving screw to drilling holes and this drill works and it doesn't wear out you arm. What more could you want. Yeah it cost more but you get what you pay for.

Best Drill you will ever buy!
After going through a couple of medium priced off the shelf drills that either locked up or were too heavy to use comfortably in a days work this one proved to go the distance! Lightweight, very quiet, easy to use, and super powerful! One year old and going strong! BEST DRILL EVER!

Good drill, although expensive
Panasonic makes good cordless drills/drivers. They are well designed and last a long time. Probably the best 2 things about them is the flawless chuck design (holds even the smallest of bits in place without coming loose), and the long 3.5Ah runtime batteries. That said, they are more expensive than other brands.

I ended up with a Makita 14.4v. It was a much better value for the money especially because as of this writing, Makita is offering some attractive rebates. Also I liked the feel and balance of Makita better. The Panasonic has a huge and heavy battery while the Makita's battery is lighter (but probably doesn't last quite as long). Subsequently, the Panasonic felt like a brick was attached to the handle. Also, the case that comes with the Makita is much better-more sturdy and better designed (although larger) than Panasonic's cheapy case. Further, the Panasonic battery charger is much larger than the Makita one.

This kit comes complete with the drill, a black plastic hard case, 2 batteries and charger.

Best of the lot
Having used and worn out cordless industrial drills from AEG, Bosch, Black & Decker (DeWalt), Milwaukee, and Makita, I conclude that Panasonic (my several-years-old 12volt version of this one, with NiCD batteries) beats 'em all hands-down for quality, versatility, and long life. The 15-minute fast charge option (now 20 minutes as the batteries have aged) has been helpful at times. The 21-stage friction torqe clutch has been consistent, unlike Bosch's misbegotten electronic torque limiter design. Most important, though, in my opinion, is the automatic spindle lock and SUPERB chuck that grabs and HOLDS bits without slipping, unlike every other keyless design I've used on portable drills. When this baby bites the dust, Panasonic will again be my first choice for replacement.

Good Drill
I bought this unit a few weeks ago and am very satisfied with it. But this is my first cordless drill, and I've used it only for relatively light-duty projects around the house, so take my comments with those caveats in mind.

I've found the weight, torque, and comfort in the hand are all excellent for me. Some people I've shown it to have commented on the whine it makes, but but I don't think it's any noisier than other drills, just different sounding.

I took off one star because the trigger doesn't give a continuous range of speeds. It starts well at slow speeds, but tends to "kick over" to a very high speed with no transition as the trigger is pulled back. This happens in both the Low and High switch settings. That can be disconcerting.

Things missing that some (other) users might care about: No built-in level; no place to store screws/bits, etc. on the base. Good feature some other units don't have: stands up nicely on its handle. Good universal charger, and I like the NiMH batteries for ecological reasons if nothing else. There is a unit with 3.5 AH batteries, but I got this one with the smaller batteries because I figured the lighter weight was more important than the presumably longer work time between charges for my uses. The chuck is very easy to use, and looks like it runs true to me. Instruction manual tells nothing, but what didn't you know about what it does? ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Imagine the feel of 420 inch-pounds of torque in your hand. That's what this awesome drill/driver delivers in the lock-up position, powered by a 14.4-volt battery. Because of the two-speed gearbox, you've got drill speed ranges of 0 to 450 rpm and 0 to 1,400 rpm. Its 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck is keyless, and the 20-position clutch takes care of drilling and driving into all kinds of material. You'll never regret a Porter-Cable purchase; their drills are among the best on the market. But here's one more reason to go with this model if you're in the market for a cordless drill/driver: the interchangeable Grip-to-Fit handle inserts. Having grappled with tool handles that were too big to control, we think this system is a great idea. There are manly sized grips included, of course, but for the woman woodworker or cabinetmaker, welcome to a delight--small grips! You just can't go wrong. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 1-year warranty/30 day performance certificate
• 2 14.4-volt 2.0 amp hour batteries
• Interchangeable Grip to Fit handle inserts
• 420 in/lbs torque, 20 position clutch
• Two speed gear box, 0-450 and 0-1400 RPM

Reviews (2)

recommend
durable, high quality drill, after 3 years of use the unit has held up, and I would recommend it over a dewalt 14.4 volt. I install cable and phone lines and am very satisfied with the performance (concrete, wood, brick etc)

fooled again
I purchased this drill after realizing I needed a new charger for my old PC 12 Volt. My thought was to buy the new drill and use the charger to keep my old batteries and drill. Seeing that the new charger worked with both 14.4 V. and 12 V. I ASSumed thia was a logical step. Why would anything in the tool world be logical, no need for modularity since we can throw out the old and buy new, better stuff.

So, I bought the damn thing. My new batteries are now shot after 1 year of mild use (or the charger is shot), the new charger won't charge the old batteries, and I'm looking at more drills, batteries, or charger purchases.

I refuse to buy another PC drill even though the torgue was good and not to heavy. The batteries wouldn't hold a very long charge (somewhat forgivable due to a lighter battery weight) but what really turned me off was the non-modular systems and the total disregard for past products that worked ok (but needed a new battery/charger) for the idea that a new better product exists. Thus, I say farewell to PC and hello to Makita or Panasonic - which I should have done before my last PC purchase.

ww ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Impressively compact, lightweight, and comfortable to use, Panasonic's 12-volt drill/driver fits into tight spaces where other bulkier drills won't. What about power? This Panasonic packs up to 293 inch-pounds of torque, while the motor's speed control allows full torque delivery at any speed, with dual speed ranges of 0 to 400 and 1 to 1,300 rpm. The 2 amp ni-cad batteries provide solid run time and charge in just 30 minutes. But the first thing you notice about this tool is how compact it is (the chassis measures only 8 inches) and how comfortable it feels in your hand. The soft-pad grip provides extra cushion and the 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. 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 two 2 amp ni-cad batteries, a universal charger, and a hard-plastic carrying case. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Compact and lightweight: weighs just over 4 pounds, measure only 8 inches long
• Two 2.0 amp ni-cad batteries charge in just 30 minutes
• Delivers 293 in./lbs. of torque
• Features 3/8-inch keyless chuck, 18-stage clutch, and an electronic brake
• Electronic speed control offers full torque at any rpm

Reviews (1)

THE ABSOLUTE BEST IN A COMPETATIVE MARKET
I've had the older model of this drill with the NiMH batteries for several years. It was my second Panasonic. Previous one was the 14.4 volt, and I used it so much the batteries wore out, but not the drill. I've had Bosch (chuck wobbles), Porter-Cable (poor quality), and Milwaukee (great, but trigger pinches your fingers), etc. Panasonic is the best by far.

Pros: chuck holds even the smallest bit, excellent balance, really durable, light but powerful enough that if you need more get a drill with a cord or an impact driver. If I had to do it again, I'd go with this Ni-Cad model because it holds a charge longer than the NiMH and is cheaper, although the run time is less.

Cons: None ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Bosch's Compact Tough cordless drills are designed to provide professional power in a compact profile and perform tough jobs in tight spaces and close quarters without compromising durability. Employing a flexible ABS nylon blend, this tool can stand up to the roughest job site conditions. This 14.4-volt model has a two-speed gearbox that delivers up to 300 inch-pounds of torque in high-torque mode and up to 1,200 rpm in high-speed mode. There's also a large two-sided fan for cool operation and motor durability and a 16-position clutch for matching the torque to your task. We like the ratcheting chuck that allows for quick, reliable one-handed bit changes and the soft rubber grip Bosch includes on all its cordless tools. For people who want the most power they can get in a small drill, this 14.4-volt model may be the best bet. It has the most torque of all Bosch's Compact Tough drills and weighs only 4.4 pounds. This model includes the drill, two 2 amp hr batteries, a one-hour charger, a bit holder, and a carrying case. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic soft-grip handle design
• Compact Tough design for increased maneuverability in tight spaces and less user fatigue
• Two speed gearbox for high speed or high torque as needed
• Ratcheting, single-sleeve 3/8" Chuck for one-handed operation
• Includes 2 batteries

Reviews (3)

snapped a 5/16 lag bolt, " BRUTE" is appropriate
This is the best cordless tool I've ever owned. I've always liked the Bosch line of tools. Between the 18 volt and the 14.4 volt I ended up buying the 14.4 volt brute, and I've certainly put it to work. It has plenty of power to drive any kind of screw you want. My brother was driving in a 5/16" X 2 1/2 lag bolt while working on my deck, we both heard a snap. My brother said, "sorry , but I think I just broke your drill. Come to find out the drill was fine and he had snapped the lag bolt cleanly off, talk about power. The battery pack lasts plenty long enough to allow your second battery to fully charge, so you have no down time. The drill is very ergonomic, and a real pleasure to use. I dont generally leave reviews, but i must make an exception in this case

Great little drill
I traded in my Makita 14V because I was unhappy with it and still needed a second drill. This one outperforms my Craftsman 19.2. The feel is great. The heft is right. The power is unbelievable. I am extremely happy. Even the case is first rate. everything fits in its molded space. And it even has holders for the battery covers. They just went the extra step all the way around. Very happy.

Hands Down--the Best Drill Driver
What can I say? Bosch is the BEST!! You will love this tool, I promise. It's the most power you will every get from a small drill. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Imagine the feel of 385 inch-pounds of torque in compact package. That's what this great drill/driver delivers in the lock-up position, powered by a 12-volt battery. Because of the two-speed gearbox, you've got drill speed ranges of 0 to 425 rpm and 0 to 1,300 rpm. Its 1/2-inch chuck is keyless, and the 20-position clutch takes care of drilling into all kinds of material. You'll never regret a Porter-Cable purchase; their drills are among the best on the market. But here's one more reason to go with this model if you're in the market for a cordless drill/driver: the interchangeable Grip-to-Fit handle inserts. Having grappled with tools handles that were too big to control, we think this system is a great idea. There are manly sized grips included, of course, but for the woman woodworker or cabinetmaker, welcome to a delight--small grips! You just can't go wrong with this. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Includes: drill/driver, 2 batteries, charger, bit and case
• 2 12 volt, 2.0AH batteries
• Interchangeable Grip to Fit handle inserts
• 2 speed gear box, (0-450 and 0-1300 rpm
• 1/2 inch single metal sleeve, ratching/locking chuck

Reviews (2)

Disappointed Customer
I purchased a 12v cordless drill/driver 2 years ago. One of the batteries that came with the package began to fail after a year. The motor failed at the 2 year mark. The motor replacement cost was $80.00, almost as much as I paid for the drill. After 2 years for light use, I used the drill for around the house projects, I had an unusable product. Needless to say I wouldn't buy another Porter Cable drill and I wouldn't recommend this drill to anyone. I expected this drill to last longer than 2 years.

Great power, very happy
I got this at the same time as I got a cheap, 15.6v Crafstman drill as a gift. They couldn't be more different. If you're considering a cheap alternative like that, let me list some differences:
- The PC has WAY more power. Don't let the voltage rating fool you. I have had the Craftsman drill bog down far more often than the PC drill.
- Brake and locking chuck - When you take your finger off the PC trigger, it stops immediately and locks in place, making bit changes much easier and avoiding turning screws too far.
- Speeds - There is a speed switch on the top of the PC, not the Craftsman. I have found this very helpful when switching between drilling (HI) and screwing (LO).
- Apparent quality - The PC feels better built. It has that steel-instead-of-plastic feel to it. It probably is a little heavier, but that's probably due to more metal and more battery, a trade-off I'm fine with making.

This drill has had plenty of power and battery life for me in my furniture building. I drilled 400 holes in a pair of bookcases and had to switch batteries once. I asssembled 8 drawers using these two drills. I had three drilling tasks: drilling a large hole (3/4"), drilling a small hole (1/8"), and turning a screw. Eventually, the craftsman drill ended up just turning screws because it was too slow to change bits on it and it was slower drilling even the small holes. The only reason I used it on the screws was to skip another bit change to put the screwdriver bit in the PC. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

When the job calls for power, Milwaukee's 1/2-inch drill delivers, with the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. Built to withstand the rigors of even the most demanding user, this drill boasts a rugged, 8.0 amp Milwaukee motor, a heavy-duty keyed clutch, an all-metal gear case and diaphragm, and helical-cut steel gears--heat-treated for maximum durability. Variable-speed control allows the drill to operate smoothly between 0 and 850 rpm, while a 360-degree locking side handle provides added stability and power on high-torque jobs. Ergonomically designed to maximize user comfort while still providing ample power and strength, Milwaukee's 1/2-inch drill features grooved slots, making it easy to run the drill with the hand directly behind the drill's body, while operating the trigger with the pinky and ring fingers. A smart buy for any job site, this drill will also appeal to the home user looking for the top of the line. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Limited warranty, 30-day no-risk trial
• 1/2-inch keyed chuck
• Locking side handle rotates 360 degrees
• Quiet heat treated steel gears
• 0 to 850 rpm

Reviews (6)

Yes, Go for it
I would have given this drill a 30 star, but amazon only goes up to 5. This is the best drill I have ever owned. Perfect for the contractor, or maby the person who needs an drill. I know that this will be in my family for many, many years to come. There is only one draw back, it has a lot, or mabey even more than a lot of torque. It drove a 6 inch screw indo a piece of 4x4 with no piolet hole. And it did not even stop going apter I let off the triger, it drove it about 2" into the wood and cracked my workpiece. But all that set aside, DO buy this drill.
Hope this helped-

The Best Drill
A home improvement enthusiast.
I picked this drill because I knew it would handle anything I asked of it around the home. It is my third drill over the last fifty years and know it will still do the job by my Grandsons long after I ever stop using it. It is a little heavy on the tip and so a little off balance but the extra handle compensates for that. Wish the lock on button was raised a little higher as it requires a strong and skinny finger to engage it. Otherwise, best tool I've ever owned.

Fantastic
I've used many brands of drills and always come to the same conclusion: There is no drill as good as a Milwaukee. There are less expensive brands of drills but they are of lesser quality. Buy a Milwaukee and have no regrets, it's the best, and made in the U.S.A.

INCREDIBLE DRILL
This dril is incredible. It's powerful enough for any job a hand drill can do. It is a very smooth drill that is comfortable to hold. I have used it with large auger bits in treated lumber and it doesn't bog down at all.

A Great Drill
I picked up this drill at home depot based on a review of corded high amp 1/2 inch drills in tools of the trade magazine. It has features and power that leave the competition in the dust.
It can spin a mixing paddle in a bucket of drywall mud, handle a 2and 9/16ths self feed bit and drive lag screws all day long. The dewalt couldnt nor could the porter cable. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Bosch's Brute Tough line of cordless drill/drivers are designed and built from the inside out to offer the most power and durability possible. At the heart of this drill is a Bosch-built unibody power train that contains the motor, gearbox, and clutch in one contiguous unit for durability and the best alignment possible. The two-speed gearbox has large all-metal gears for strength, and offers a whopping 450 inch-pounds of torque in high-torque mode and up to 1,300 rpm in high-speed mode. The 14.4-volt motor has built-in overload protection and externally replaceable brushes to help extend its life. The drill also has a steel-reinforced collar to protect it in the event that it's dropped on the chuck. While we don't recommend dropping your tools off one-story buildings, Bosch claims this one can stand the abuse and keep working. The final layer of protection for the drill is its flexible ABS/nylon-blend Duracell housing that protects the insides without cracking or shattering on impact. The drill also features a a strong, reliable grip and a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck with carbide teeth for one-handed bit changes. This model comes with two batteries, a one-hour charger, a bit holder, a snap hook, and a carrying case. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ratcheting 1/2? single-sleeve chuck with carbide teeth for one handed operation
• Unibody powertrain maintains alignment between clutch, gearbox, and motor for maximum durability
• Dura-shield housing protects tool from harsh job site conditions and impacts
• Two speed gearbox for high speed or high torque as needed
• Externally changeable brushes

Reviews (7)

Tough, but lousy battery life.
I love Bosch tools and highly recommend their table saw, saber saw and routers. It was because of their durability and precision that I bought the Bosch 14.4 when my 12 volt Porter Cable finally conked out. While the Bosch performed admirably under very heavy loads, its battery life was very disappointing. Under heavy use of drilling and driving screws, I'd get an hour or so before having to switch batteries. My buddy with the Panasonic runs all day without switching a battery (even after dropping it off a four story roof - twice). The toughness and convenient carrying case are great aspects of the Bosch, it never smoked or conked out, but I recommend the Panasonic or Porter Cable as better tools.

Excellent Cordless Drill
After using a Dewalt 18V XRP drill kit for a few projects, I was unsatisfied with the overall quality and performance. So I began my search for another quality cordless drill and ended up with this Bosch. I'm completely satisfied with the quality - the shell is very rugged, the chuck is 1st class, adjustable clutch, tons of torque (!), and battery is very securely attached (a problem with the Dewalt).

This is a first rate drill. I'm completely satisfied and would purchase it again.

A real Pleasure!!!!
All I have to say is that this drill is simply awesome!! I've used many other drills before, but this one takes the cake! you can feel the durability by just holding it. The fun really starts when you use it...tons of torque for any job! you can't go wrong, good luck!

Awesome Drill!!!
I considered the Dewalt comparable drill,but it was a little more expensive.However I'am glad I bought the Bosch,very rugged and durable,nice torque and power,the case is very well laid out with a little case for extra bits,nice metal buckles and oh yea, caps for the battery packs!!If you are considering any other drill look no further buy the Bosch.One downside, the drill is a little heavy, but that just adds to its ruggedness....Happy drilling!!

Great Drill
Long lasting batteries. Great trigger control. Nice clutch with racheting feature. Overall a very solid dependable tool. A great bargain and head and tails above the comparable DeWalt. I would only buy this tool or a Milwaukee. ... Read more

Features

• Includes Flashlight, (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 (6)

Replacing my DeWalt
My 4 year old DeWalt 12 volt is dying a slow death, and it has only had homeowner use. One battery now holds a charge for 15 minutes of work time and the other is a little better. The clutch slips without much torque on it, even at the highest setting. The chuck won't hold smaller bits. And with hurricane season coming, I needed a drill that I could rely on. So Brown delivered this Makita yesterday. I haven't had much time to work with it yet but so far I'm impressed.

There are only two drills, that I am aware of, that have NiMH batteries (Panasonic and Makita). From my experience with notebook computers, the NiMH batteries cured many of the problems with NiCad batteries. There is no set, so you don't get only 20 percent of the battery's runtime after they have been charged a few times. And a charge lasts much longer. So why not go with the Panasonic with its incredible amp hours. Well I was put off by several reviews that talked about their motors burning up. OK, I know that this could have been planted to sway people like me, or it could have been a rare exception. But you pays your money and you takes your chances. I was looking for a reliable drill with a long service life.

So how does the Makita compare to my old DeWalt.

Both have dual speeds. But the Makita has another sliding switch that kicks the clutch in and out. When set to screw position the clutch is engaged and when set to drill position the clutch is locked out. This would have been a nice feature on the DeWalt, after its clutch started slipping.

The chuck on the DeWalt has one ring that you hold while tightening the bit. The Makita has the normal outer ring and a smaller inner ring. It doesn't seem to make much difference when chucking up a bit; you grab the big ring and run the motor. But when releasing a bit you must use both hands to turn the rings in opposite directions to break the bit loose then run the motor if you need to open up the chuck. This will take me some getting used to.

The DeWalt has a 2 position foward/reverse switch above the trigger. The Makita has a similar switch in the same place but it also has a middle trigger lock position. This will also take some getting used to.

Both drills weigh, balance and feel about the same in my hand.

The Makita has external replaceable brushes. It would have been nice if their documentation gave a generic part number for them that could be found at any electrical supply house. My Hitachi router does this. Hopefully, there will be a number on the brushes themselves.

The Makita comes with a smart charger with several LEDs giving charging information. The charger goes into trickel mode after achieving a full charge. The standard DeWalt charger is very basic. And I am not sure if the DeWalt smart charger, that I bought later, is any better.

The Makita has a metal gear transmission. Thats got to be a good feature. I don't know about the DeWalt.

The Makita came with a flashlight that should be useful. The documentation promises 220 minutes (over 3-1/2 hours) on one charge.

The toolbelt is nice but heavy (2 or 3 pounds). But the belt does not fit around my fat girth. Would have been nice if the belt was about two inches longer or I was about ten years younger.

I am looking forward to seeing how the 14.4 v does when driving 3" deck screws. The DeWalt 12 v just barely didn't have enough torque to run them all the way in.

Very nice upgrade from my old PC 12colt
My beloved, 9 year old 12volt Porter Cable finally died in the midst of hanging drywall. My choices at the big box store were the house brand, Makita or the DeWalt XRP. I bought the DeWalt, and returned it that day. The Makita, on the other hand has been great. Great speed range, awesome torque, very reliable controls, quick charge. And the kicker is the greate runtime!

Buy it, you'll like it.

May the M-Force be with you!
I considered the top 2 drills with Metal Hydride batteries & chose this one since having great results with Makita tools. The added options at this price were hard to pass up since my 12 volt DeWalt XRP drill batteries started going downhill in less than 4 years. No more cordless DeWalt tools for me; especially since I have read of alot of problems with the clutch not working in low gear & the 3 speed switch sticking.
The Makita has the instant drill selector switch, alot better balanced than the DeWalt, a new improved motor with a 2 speed all metal gear system; and the newer battery technology that includes a smart charger. It out performs all the other cordless drills I have had in the past! The flashlight uses the same 2.6 amp MH batteries. It runs smooth & does not make that clunking sound when you let off the trigger as the DeWalt always did.
If you happen to need to change the brushes in the motor, it is a do it yourself job instead of mailing it to a service center.

Thanks Makita for making great quality tools. I have an electric right angle Makita drill with the LED light, a 7 1/2" Makita circular saw, plus the M-Force gloves & toolbelt, and a $40.00 coupon toward another Makita tool. Too bad they never gave any free hats but you can't always have everything.

The Performer!
This package deal from Tool Crib was a deal I could not pass up. It comes with a smart charger and Metal Hydride batteries. I had my mind made up between the Panasonic or the Makita. It has a more precise trigger controll, alot better balanced, and newer technology. By the way, it really runs smooth & has the power to perform! The chuck on this drill grips alot better than any chuckless type I have used before.

Missouri dude not affiliated with company
Considered Milwaukee and Panasonic. But I thought this was a better value and I bought it a couple weeks ago.

Like other reviewers of similar Mikita packages have stated - the flashlight (uses the same rechargeable battery as drill) is unexpectedly great - love it. The gloves are great - but they are one size only - but still fit well. One reviewer said he did high sparking metal type stuff and the glove sort of melted. The directions with the glove, give the limitations for their use. So the reviewer might want to read the directions. The tool belt, which I didn't have, is just fine. Others have complained about the large carrying case, but not me. Just some more room to put stuff in.

(...) So the drill, in effect, cost about $58 bucks.

The other reason I chose the 14.4V is that it is a good weight to torque tradeoff. But the biggy is that I can use the 14.4V Makita batteries with the Makita 14.4V super-torque impact driver and it takes almost no pressure to use. Then I won't have to wrestle with screws and marring them with drill drivers such as this one - it would handle almost anything. Why get a super high torque drill driver when you can effortlessly use an impact driver with not strain. So, for me, 14.4V is high enough.

I used the drill continuosly for about 15 minutes at the highest RPM with a a circular wire brush attachment to remove rust - each battery lasted about 15 minutes. It takes about an hour for each battery to recharge. Two are included. The other thing is the battery will heat up and it will not charge until the recharger automatically senses it is cool enough. At about the third recharge of doing the battery swape, it had to cool for about ten minutes before being able to charge up. So, if you use the drill continuously you might have to wait 30-45 minutes before the other battery is ready to again be swaped.

Oh yeah, I like the drill and all the Makita stuff looks good too.

Overall: Very pleased, great value. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Keyless chucks can sometimes be a mixed blessing. On the one hand, bit changes are quicker and more convenient, but bit slippage can also be an issue at times. That's not the case with the DeWalt heavy-duty 3/8-inch VSR drill kit with keyless chuck. DeWalt has equipped this tool with a two-sleeve ratcheting chuck that locks shut and holds bits firmly in place. The drill weighs just 3.5 pounds but can power its way through metal, wood and masonry, with bit capacities of 3/8 inches, one inch and 1/2 inch respectively. A 6 amp motor delivers powerful torque and speeds of 0-2,500 rpm, while an advanced brush system automatically stops the tool when the brushes wear out, preventing serious motor damage. The drill is comfortable to hold and comes with a built-in bubble level that lets you know your holes are straight and true. All in all, a very solid performer.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Built-in two-way bubble level ensures accurate vertical and horizontal holes
• 6 amp motor provides more power than any unit in its class
• 3/8-inch ratcheting keyless chuck loosens and tightens by hand for greater bit retention
• All-ball-bearing construction means longer tool life
• 0-2,500 rpm with single gear reduction

Reviews (10)

Not that great.
I have been using this drill now for a few months, and overall I am disappointed. The keyless chuck has a habit of loosening itself. This is especially noticeable when drilling with spade bits. I occasionally have to drill through two or three 2-by stock at once, and the chuck excels at loosening at these times.

The drill also has poor speed control. Under heavier load, when as when trying to tighten a drywall screw the last turn, the drill has a tendency to suddenly overspeed and sink the screw too deeply. I had an old Black and Decker VSR drill that I used for over 15 years and was able to get each drywall screw just right with the fine control that its trigger offered.

It does have quit a bit of power and is comfortable in the hand, which is why I am giving it 3 stars instead of 1 or 2.

I must say that the problems with this drill took me by surprise, as I have used a friend's cordless DeWalt drill and have been extremely pleased with it. This corded drill is simply not up to the same standard.

The best - no question
Stong, Fast, Light - Feels great. If this one lasts as long as my last DeWalt 3/8" drill I'm in good shape. The chuck is the bomb - it makes a clicking locking sound. DeWalt is amazing.

Fantastic Drill
This drill is fantastic. I've owed Black & Decker's, Craftsman, Ryobi and even and old one sold years ago by J.C. Penny's and this by far is the best. The quality is outstanding and it will drill through anything. Add DeWalt drill bits and get ready to do some serious drilling, this drill it makes it fun! As to the price, well it's the same as The Home Depot, but if you buy here at Amazon like I did and get the free shipping, you save your local sales tax you're money ahead. This drill has turned me into a DeWalt man - period. Next on my list is the 9 amp DeWalt reciprocating saw.

Superb Drill at a great price
I have owned this drill for nearly two months. This was purchased as a replacement for my old Skil Drill and has been awesome. The keyless chuck is excellent - I have not experienced ANY loosening as some other reviewers have, The speed control is perfection and the power is impressive. I don't like cordless powertools much and am always on the lookout for a good tool for a great price. This one fits the bill.

Outstanding Drill at an Ordinary Price
This thing ties with my Bosch jigsaw for favorite tool in my home shop. It's tough, powerful and cheap. If you're looking for a high-quality drill for homes projects, this is the one to buy. Forget cordless if you're on a budget; you'll spend more money for something less powerful that constantly runs out of power in the middle of a project. Your house has electricity. Buy an extension cord and put yout money into quality rather than batteries.

Here's my single complaint; the price breakdown that they are showing. I bought mine for $63 from Lowes. Sears had it in store for $65. I compared prices from a number of major retailers and nobody is listing it for anywhere near the $100+ that Amazon is claiming to be marking down from. When you buy this thing from Amazon, you're getting a good product shipped quickly, etc. But their claim of '40% off' is just not based in reality. Amazon's price is the same as everyone else's. ... Read more

Features

• 360 degree side handle for greater control
• 7.8-amp motor with variable speed
• Helical cut steel, heat treated gears for long gear life
• Metal gear housing
• Two-finger rubber trigger for increased comfort

Reviews (3)

Good for the Pro
This is a great drill, but know what you're getting. It has a big motor but only spins up to 850 rpm (which is 1/3 the speed of a "normal" drill). It's perfect for spade bits and hole saws, but anything else should be left for your light duty drill. I'd recommend it; it's a great tool at a reasonable price.

A screamer
This is a great tool for the price . One of my guys bought one. It drills pretty well in any material. Except masonry. It's not so fast that you burn your bits in steel. The torque is quite impressive . More than my Milwaukee Magnum. You could easily hurt yourself with this bad boy. But that means you can use some pretty large bits and hole saws with it. Some times when all your batteries are dead (if you forget to charge them) you need a corded drill just to remember how nice the cordless one are.

handy handle
The 360 degree side handle on this drill is so convenient. Most powerful drills are ackward in hard to reach places. The balance and control this drill has is excellent. A good buy. ... Read more

Features

• Includes Flashlight, two Ni-MH batteries, multi-voltage charger and case
• 2-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

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 amp NiMH batteries deliver impressive 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 electronic speed control allows full torque at any speed, so you can apply full torque while still maintaining control. The tool's dual speed ranges are 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. 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 45-minute universal charger and a hard-plastic carrying case. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Compact and lightweight for all-day use
• Two 3.0 amp NiMH battery packs provide 50 percent longer run time
• Delivers 390 in./lbs of torque for big applications
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck handles larger bits
• 45-minute charge saves time

Reviews (4)

Best I've ever owned
I'm a weekend warrior but use my Panasonic cordless drill nearly every week. I've had if for more than a year. It works very well. Battery life is excellent, I will ALWAYS try to buy NiMH batteries in the future. They are far superior to NiCd batteries. (Battery life is such that I rarely have to change batteries on a weekend project. There is no "memory effect" on the batteries so I don't worry about fully discharging a battery before recharging it.) The drill itself works great. The one hand keyless chuck is very easy to use. The clutch works well. Two speeds, fast for drilling, slower for driving screws are appropriate. Size/weight/power/controls are perfect for me. (I'm an average size guy.) If I had it to do over, I would have purchased the Drill/Driver combination with the circular saw. Saw is not available w/o batteries & charger like other brands. If it were, I'd buy it in a second! Are you listening Panasonic/Amazon?

Size matters.
I have done over 30 years in the remodeling trades. I have always preferred compact drills to larger ones. I have used many of the different cordless drill models; mostly because the batteries wear out and it is always cheaper to get a new drill with two batteries than it is to get two replacement batteries. I have had this drill for nearly a year now and the batteries are still working. The drill itself is light, powerful, and it has a precise feel to it that pleases me. It compares favorably to many of the 18 volt drills I have used but it is lighter and smaller. I should mention that I have never owned or used a cordless drill that I didn't like, but that being said, this is my favorite to date.

the best
The best cordless drill i have used .comfortable to use
,powerful as an 18 volt model.I have used cordless tools from every major manufacturer and panasonic is the best.If only panasonic made electric tools!Panasonic never promote tools in the uk and as such there are very few stockists.

Balance, power, long legs, and a helluva price
I don't understand why Panasonic doesn't push these tools. They're the best you can buy. After seven years of overloading it, I finally burnt up the 12V I had at work and bought this...
The tool: This just feels right in your hand, it doesn't tug your wrist. The chuck is much better than my old one as it ratchets in both directions. The chuck on my old tool would loosen up when I was breaking and extracting a bunch of sheet metal screws. I never ate a clutch, unlike the DeWalts our construction division bought. We'll see how this one holds up with the extra power (I've only had it for a few months). When I get into sheet metal on our equipment, I appreciate a light tool, I'm getting old. This tool weighs more than a 12V, but I can do the repetitious work without fatigue. With the higher voltage tools I need 2 hands after a while. I have a 12V at home that I DID buy from Amazon (model EY6407NQKW) xlnt.
I'm a heavy equipment mechanic/power generation technician and fully expect my 15.6 to last to my retirement in 4 yrs.
jd ... Read more

Amazon.com

We started counting all the uses for this little dynamo, but we stopped at 967. We like it for delicate tasks and finer work because it isn’t as powerful as its big brothers, so it’s easier to control. It’s light, extremely maneuverable, the switch is exactly where you want it and heck, it’s just plain fun to use. It’s perfect for jewelry, electronics, tiny woodworking crafts like dollhouse furniture and other intricate hobbies. It uses Dremel’s wide array of bits, so there’s virtually no limit to what you can do with this. Sure, there are store brands on the market for less, but Dremel is king when it comes to rotary tools, and we think they outdid themselves with this one.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Shaft-lock button and unique collet nut make changing bits easy--no wrench required
• 1/8" collet
• Removable battery pack & 3-hour charger
• 2-speed (5,000 & 10,000 RPM)
• 2-year warranty

Reviews (8)

Great for My Use
My dog's breeder recommended this model to use for keeping the dog's nails trimmed. Absolutely perfect for filing down her nails. I always put on a pair of gardening gloves (you know how puppies and dogs wiggle) and this cordless wonder works GREAT. Good price, great work. A very good buy.

Podiatrist Recommended!!
Believe it or not, my podiatrist recommended this gadget for trimming rough skin on my feet. It is not very powerful, which is perfect for this application. If it were too powerful... well, let's not think about that. But it's perfect for trimming excess dead skin, bunions, etc., on the feet. It may have other uses as well, but this is what I do with it.

Awesome tool
I needed a little tool to carry in my tackle box to sharpen fishing hooks. I use a Dremel grinding stone to touch up the barbs and keep them sharp. Don't let this big little tool get away!

My kids' toys have more power
Plenty of Power??? I don't think so. Mine has trouble cutting open a plastic 2 liter soda bottle.

Skip this one and go for the 7.2V model. It has the power you are looking for. Grinding out a fastener that snapped in a steel airplane model was no problem for this 7.2V model. Although, it still takes a good carbide bit for this tricky operation.

A REAL WORKER
I bought one of these tools, when it first hit the street.Man was I surprised with the power. After about 2 years of serious duty I finally wore it out.The only down side was not being able to precisely control the speed.You cant go wrong here folks dremel has built a reputation on simplicity and reliability.This minimite is no exception and is definitely tool box worthy. Now get out there and grind,cut,polish something. ... Read more

Features

• One-hour charger, two DeWalt 9.6-volt compact batteries, and a heavy-duty carrying case
• Fan-cooled DeWalt motor delivers 200 in/lbs of torque
• Compact size at just 3.4 pounds and 8-3/8 inches long
• Jacobs Chuck puts a strong bite on bits
• Variable speed for maximum precision

Reviews (23)

THE drill to buy
I can't recommend this drill enough. I just spend the Labor Day vacation (?) assembling a wooden playset for my daughters. Discovered my old Skil 18v wasn't what she used to be. Went to the local H Depot and waffled between the B&D and the DeWalt - let DeWalt's reputation tip the scales and I couldn't be happier. The 1 hour battery charger is perfect. The drill had no problem w/ 3" and 4" wood screws through pressure treated wood - or driving a 5/16" hole through a 4X6. It's light, perfectly balanced and w/ the 2 batteries and 1 hour charger I worked all day with no slow downs. You can tell this was built to be used. Despite the fact that B&D owns DeWalt - there are differences - DeWalt is all metal internal gears and more torque than the 14.4v Firestorm I was considering.

Very useful, but did not last
We got a DeWalt 9.6 V (that looks just like this one) when we bought our house about seven years ago. We used it almost exclusively as a driver (using a corded high-speed drill for drilling), and it performed well for most tasks. And for most tasks, the relatively light weight seemed to be an advantage (until we found a bigger drill that was not much heavier). This drill did have its limitations. It did not have the power to drive 3" screws into pressure-treated pine on our deck efficiently, resulting in hands and arms that tired from maintaining pressure on the screw during the last few turns. For the deck, we ended up buying a 14.4 V Milwaukee, which was less than a pound heavier than this DeWalt. For the DeWalt, battery charging was adequately quick, but the battery use time was not particularly long. The batteries failed to hold a charge after about five years of use; we bought new batteries. We had to replace the charger once, too -- one of the metal contacts broke. Finally, after about six years of home repair use, this drill died. It started sputtering and wheezing when drilling upside-down, and then sputtered all the time -- no power. I could not take the drill apart to look for bad connections. Six years may seem like plenty of use, but it was used only on weekends at the most. Even when new, it did not seem nearly as solid and smooth-running as the Milwaukee we have now.

Great drill for the price and money
I got this drill from the company I work for, as my 10yr gift. I have had it for 4yrs going on 5. The drill and one of it's batteries was left out in the rain 2 times. Each time my husband was able to revive the poor abused thing. Finally this year after 4 1/2 years with a lot of extended weekend use(sometimes 3 day and 4day week ends)one of the battery's no longer holds a charge.
We made 2 8' by 12' ground level decks with no problem. I usually predrill most items not because of lack of power, but because not predrilling causes most wood, press board, and fiber board to split and crack. We also built cabinets, book cases, work tables for our shop, work tables for my studio and uncountable other uses. I am buying another one. I just bought my husband the 12v version. I still love my drill and prefer it over the other one. I will still use my old one. One for predrilling and one for driving. I don't care too much for the quick change chucks we bought(one set from craftsman and one set from Ryobi, and a small set from Dewalt) They all have a wobble that I don't get from the drill chuck. I hope others will enjoy their drill as much as we have.

Diana

Great for small jobs
Great for the DIY'er. Anything more than 9.6v becomes heavy and cantakerous for small tasks. This drill will struggle with driving screws into 4"x4" treated wood unless the holes are pre-drilled. For big jobs, keep a corded drill. How often do you really need a drill with that much balls?

I don't usually give four stars!
Well, I actually like this tool:

It's a decent drill...PERIOD.

1.) the chuck is only 3/8ths but that's okay for a small drill

2.) the battery is okay for a small drill. it's great that they give you 2 of them

3.) it comes with a useful and durable case

4.) the power is decent for it's size and battery

5.) I believe the MAKITA has better BALANCE but the Makita feels and sounds like it's HOLLOW inside. This Dewalt feels a lot more durable

Conclusion

Although I know this tool is not perfect, I know that it's a decent drill.

I wish Dewalt made more decent and simple tools ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Impressively compact, lightweight, and comfortable to use, Panasonic's 12-volt drill/driver fits into tight spaces where other bulkier drills won't. The 3 amp NiMH batteries deliver impressive 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 293 inch-pounds of torque, while the motor's speed control allows full torque delivery at any speed, with dual speed ranges of 0 to 400 and 1 to 1,300 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 8-3/16 inches) and how comfortable it feels in your hand. The soft-pad grip provides extra cushion and the 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. 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 two of Panasonic's long-lasting 3 amp NiMH batteries, a universal charger, and a hard-plastic carrying case. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Compact and lightweight for comfortable all-day use
• Two 3.0 amp NiMH battery packs for longer run time
• Delivers 293 in./lbs. of torque
• 1/2-inch keyless chuck handles larger bits
• 45-minute charger saves time

Reviews (4)

Excellent drill
This is an excellent drill. At 12-Volts this Panasonic packs plenty of punch, and maintains constant speed under load. The finish is excellent and all parts fit together snugly. This drill has just the right weight and size, and fits comfortably in your hand. The Panasonic kit comes with two 3.0 amp batteries so you always have one in the ready. My battery lasts a full day with heavy use.

I bought the Panasonic to replace a 12-V Makita. The Panasonic has more power at the same voltage (the 3 amp batteries). Small drill bits will not spin in the chuck!!! The electronic brake is also excellent, althought this can't be good for the brushes. No problems so far.

My only complaint is that the trigger needs to be more sensitive/responsive. It slowly increases RPM's as you depress it, and then goes right to full speed.

Overall, I highly recommend this drill for all general tasks. It will out-perform other 12V drills, and is just the right weight to carry around or for working overhead.

Perfect combination of weight and power.
I bought this model about 6 months ago and am impressed with its ergonomics,weight, and decent power. I was looking for a new cordless to add to my collection of drills and narrowed my choices down to this drill and the 12 volt Makita 6217DWDEX. The Panosonic is about a 1/4 lbs lighter- at 4 pounds, has a 1/2" chuck versus a 3/8" chuck, and comes with 3amp ni-mh batteries versus 2.6 amp ni-mh for the Makita. Why a 12 volt? Because of weight. What's been happening to cordless drills over the last 2-3 years is ridiculous. The 18 and 24 volt models are now weighing in at around six pounds, are a foot long,and cost twice as much as a good quality high amp corded drill. Torque? How much do you need? More on that later. Anyway, let's talk about this Panasonic drill.
The build quality is excellent. The seams line up perfectly, decals are put on straight, and there were no flaws in its apperance. The grip on this drill is made of a "grippy" rubber which prevents slippage if your hands are sweaty. This "grippy" rubber handle runs up the back of the drill. This could provide a little bit of cushioning protection if you accidentally drop the drill onto a hard surface. The 1/2" keyless ratcheting chuck grips bits very tightly. I haven't had any round shank drills spin on me. I checked the run out of the chuck with a gauge pin and Starrett test indicator and obtained a reading of .004" runout. Quite acceptable for a hand held drill. The 3 amp batteries have ventilation slots in the bottom. This is an important feature because the number one enemy of batteries is heat. Excessive heat will kill batteries. This heat is generated when recharging batteries or if the tool is under a very heavy load. The battery life is excellent so far. I've driven over 300 number 12 screws, 2", on a single charge into treated deck lumber. I've also used a 1 inch spade drill to drill through several 2" thick floor joists and the drill hasn't bogged down. One thing I did notice is that the drill handle gets hot under extended use. The battery doesn't get hot, just the handle and the bottom of the drill housing. This concerns me a little. Heat kills motors eventually. I'll have to keep an eye on this. The batteries have an excellent "shelf life." I've left one of my batteries in the case without charging it for 4 months and it still has a strong charge.
On to rpm, torque, and the clutch. This drill like most has two speed ranges-low, up to 400rpm and high, up to 1300rpm. The trigger on this drill is average. What I mean is that once the trigger is depressed about 2/3rds of the way the drill kicks into maximum rpm. I would like to have a more sensitive trigger. This is my only major complaint about the operation of this drill. By the way, the electric brake on this drill is fabulous! It stops the drill so quickly that the drill actually twitches in your hand when you release the trigger. It's instantaneous! There are 18 clutch settings. The clutch collar clicks solidly when adjusting the clutch and doesn't jump out of position. The torque rating on this drill is advertised to be 293 in. pounds in low gear with the clutch locked out. This is wrong! The actual torque is 199 in. lbs. The 293 in. lbs. is what Panasonic calls its "free load" torque. This "free load" torque is based on mathematical calculations that consider the gear train, magnets in the motor, electrical motor efficiency, and amperage provided by the batteries. It's a theoretical measurement. Under load-when work is actually being done- the actual torque is about 30% less than the advertised torque. What! Don't worry, Dewalt, Makita, Bosch, and Milwaukee, all the premium brands, advertise in the same manner. It's deceptive and unethical (part of the "torque war" that's going on right now), but helps to explain why when a group of 12volt, or 14.4 volt, or 18 volt drills are tested, they are all nearly identical in performance. Some may drill a few more holes, some may drive a few more lag bolts, but the results are pretty close to each other. I knew the torque of this drill was less than advertised before I bought it and wasn't too concerned about it. 199 in lbs. will easily twist the heads off of 10# wood screws if you don't pre drill holes- I've done that. Here's a tip. Whatever the advertised torque is on a cordless drill- subtract 30% from it to get the actual torque. One last comment about torque and this Panasonic. This drill has a feature called "full torque speed control." This means you get the same amount of maximum torque in low range with the clutch locked out no matter how far you depress the trigger. You get the same maximum torque at 70 rpm as you do at 400rpm. This provides great control when driving fasteners. You don't have to "open up" the rpm's to get that extra torque to seat a stubborn screw or lag bolt.
My final conclusion about this drill is that it is well built, lightweight, has enough torque for 95% of your jobs, and has unbelievable battery life. Why lug around a 6 pound 18 volt or 24 volt drill all day when a compact 12 volt will handle almost any fastening or drilling job you encounter? I see a lot of electricians and hvac people use Panasonic 12 volt drills, and I understand why. Nobody wants to stand on a ladder and hold some behemoth drill overhead all day. I would rate this drill as 4- to 4 1/2 stars. I think the trigger should be more sensitive and I am a little concerned about the drill becoming hot under extended use, but I think it has the best combination of weight, ergonomics, battery life, and torque of any compact drill on the market.

Good replacement
Well made replacement for older model Panasonic 12v which lasted 7 years - - the trigger operation does jump from very slow to fast rather abruptly - I would prefer a more gradual, smoother transition.

Great Tool
This is my third Panasonic Drill Kit in the past seven years. I have been very please with the performance. The problem I have is the batteries are very expensive, two replacement batteries cost almost as much as the entire drill kit,( I now have three Drills with chargers), so when you need batteries you may as well buy the entire kit, it is about the same price as two batteries. It would definately be a five star tool if you could replace the batteries reasonably. ... Read more