DeWalt 60V MAX* 1-7/8 in. Brushless Cordless SDS MAX Combination Rotary Hammer Kit

As a craftsman who frequently deals with concrete and masonry, I was eager to put the DeWalt 60V MAX* 1-7/8 in. Brushless Cordless SDS MAX Combination Rotary Hammer Kit to the test. This tool promises to deliver exceptional performance through a combination of advanced features and robust design, and I was keen to see if it lived up to its claims.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the solid build quality. The tool feels substantial in the hand, and the yellow and black color scheme is signature DeWalt. Weighing in at around 20 pounds, it’s certainly on the heavier side, but this is to be expected given its capabilities. The midweight design strikes a good balance, making it manageable for horizontal and downward drilling tasks without being overly cumbersome.

Performance and Power

The heart of this rotary hammer is its brushless motor, coupled with a German-engineered mechanism that promises durability and efficiency. The tool boasts 13.3 Joules of impact energy, which translates to powerful drilling and chipping performance. In my experience, this level of impact energy is more than sufficient for most construction tasks, including drilling anchor and through-holes, medium-duty demolition work, and even coring.

One of the standout features is the constant speed electronics, which maintain speed under load. This ensures that the tool doesn't bog down when tackling dense materials, and I found it particularly useful when drilling through reinforced concrete. The 7-position, variable-speed dial allows you to adjust the speed based on material density, providing greater control and precision.

Vibration Control and Safety

Vibration can be a significant issue with powerful rotary hammers, but DeWalt has addressed this with their Active Vibration Control System. This feature noticeably reduces vibration at the handles, making the tool more comfortable to use over extended periods. In practical terms, this means less fatigue and a lower risk of vibration-related injuries, which is a significant plus for anyone who spends a lot of time on the job site.

Safety is further enhanced by the Anti-Rotation E-CLUTCH system, which stops the tool in bind-up situations. This feature provides an added layer of protection, ensuring that the tool doesn’t twist out of control if the bit gets stuck.

Battery Life and Convenience

This rotary hammer is powered by a 60V lithium-ion battery with a 9Ah capacity. In my tests, the battery life was impressive, delivering sustained power for all the tasks I threw at it. The convenience of a cordless design cannot be overstated, especially when working in areas where running power cords is impractical or time-consuming.

However, it's worth noting that the tool doesn't fit into a standard DeWalt Tough System toolbox, which could be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer to keep their tools organized in a specific manner.

Versatility and Applications

I found this tool to be incredibly versatile. It handled everything from drilling into granite to breaking up concrete with ease. The SDS Max chuck size allows for quick bit changes, and while SDS Max bits can be harder to find in stores, the performance benefits are well worth the effort. The tool’s power and efficiency make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty construction work to more specialized tasks like digging holes in heavy clay soil.

Tag Ready™ and Tool Management

For those who need to keep track of their tools, the Tag Ready™ feature is a useful addition. This allows for tracking and management via the DEWALT Tool Connect™ app, providing peace of mind and making it easier to manage your tool inventory.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the DeWalt 60V MAX* 1-7/8 in. Brushless Cordless SDS MAX Combination Rotary Hammer Kit is a powerhouse of a tool that delivers on its promises. Its combination of power, efficiency, and advanced features makes it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit. The robust build quality, powerful performance, and thoughtful safety features make it suitable for a wide range of demanding applications.

While the tool’s weight and the difficulty in finding SDS Max bits in stores might be minor drawbacks, these are outweighed by the numerous benefits it offers. The cordless design, impressive battery life, and vibration control system make it a pleasure to use, even for extended periods.

Based on my experience, I would highly recommend this tool to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful rotary hammer. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, this tool is sure to exceed your expectations and make your work easier and more efficient.