DeWalt 20V MAX XR SDS PLUS Brushless 1 in. L-Shape Rotary Hammer (Tool Only)

20V MAX XR SDS PLUS Brushless 1 in. L-Shape Rotary Hammer (Tool Only)

Features

  • 2.1 joules impact energy (EPTA)
  • Active vibration control (SHOCKS) to reduce vibration at the handles
  • Brushless motor for improved runtime and durability
  • SDS‑Plus 1 in. chuck
  • Rotating mode dial: Drill, Hammer Drill, Chip
  • Dust-extraction compatible (works with D25303DH); OSHA Table 1 compliant when paired with DWH303DH on-board extractor
  • Factory-set clutch to reduce sudden high-torque reactions if bit jams
  • Includes 360° side handle, depth rod, and retractable utility hook
  • Compact L-shape ergonomic design suitable for overhead work and tight spaces

Specifications

Battery Capacity (Ah) 5
Battery Chemistry Lithium Ion
Battery Type / Platform 20V MAX XR
Battery Voltage (V) 20
Power Source Cordless
Chuck Size (In) 1
Chuck Type SDS+
Impact Energy (J) (Epta) 2.1 J
Impact Rate (Per Min) 4600
No Load Speed (Rpm) 1050
Optimum Drilling Range 5/32 - 1/2 in.
Has Vibration Control Yes
Is Brushless Yes
Product Length (In) 13
Product Height (In) 3.9
Product Width (In) 8.5
Product Weight (Lbs) 6.8
System SHOCKS System
Warranty 3 Year Limited Warranty

Cordless L-shape rotary hammer with a brushless motor and a German-engineered mechanism that delivers 2.1 J of impact energy for drilling in concrete. Equipped with active vibration control, selectable modes (Drill, Hammer Drill, Chip), SDS‑Plus 1 in. chuck, and compatibility with dust-extraction accessories. Battery and charger sold separately.

Model Number: DCH273B
View Manual

DeWalt 20V MAX XR SDS PLUS Brushless 1 in. L-Shape Rotary Hammer (Tool Only) Review

4.8 out of 5

A compact SDS-Plus that punches above its weight

I’ve been carrying this DeWalt rotary hammer on commercial and residential jobs for the last few months, and it has settled into that sweet spot: compact enough for overhead and ladder work, yet stout enough to handle the most common SDS‑Plus holes without complaint. It’s a tool-only model, so I paired it with 5.0Ah 20V MAX XR packs to keep the weight reasonable and runtime predictable.

Build, ergonomics, and controls

At 13 inches long and 6.8 pounds bare, the L‑shape layout keeps the weight in line with your forearm, which matters when you’re holding the tool at shoulder height. The rubber overmold and the 360° side handle give you a sturdy, neutral grip. The mode dial is simple: Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip. The trigger is smooth, and a forward/reverse selector sits where you’d expect. I appreciate the retractable utility hook more than I expected—clipping it to a ladder or joist instead of balancing it on a step feels safer and speeds up repetitive tasks.

The SDS‑Plus chuck engages crisply with a positive click. Bit changes are quick, and the depth rod is the kind of basic accessory that, once installed, saves time you’d otherwise spend measuring and re‑marking anchor depths.

Performance in concrete and masonry

Rated at 2.1 joules (EPTA) with a 1,050 RPM no‑load speed and 4,600 BPM, this unit sits in the middle of the compact SDS‑Plus class. In practice, that translated to fast, repeatable production on my staple hole sizes:

  • 5/32–3/16 inch Tapcon holes in cured concrete block: rapid, almost effortless drilling. If you’ve been doing these with a hammer drill, you’ll immediately notice the difference in speed and consistency.
  • 1/4–3/8 inch wedge anchor holes in 4,000 psi concrete: clean and predictable, with good dust ejection. Most of my 3/8 x 2 inch holes were under 10 seconds each with a sharp bit.
  • 1/2 inch holes: within spec and very doable, though you feel the tool working harder. It’s not as quick as the higher‑energy, heavier SDS‑Plus hammers, but it gets there without straining the user.

Chipping mode is useful for small tasks—knocking off tile, chasing a shallow channel, trimming a bit of mortar. It will do the job, but it’s clearly tuned for drilling efficiency rather than demo power. If chipping is your primary task, you’ll want a heavier SDS‑Plus or stepping up to SDS‑Max.

Vibration control and safety

DeWalt’s SHOCKS active vibration control is not a gimmick. On long series of overhead anchors, I noticed reduced tingling in my hands compared to compact hammers without active damping. The mechanism keeps the tool planted and helps bit engagement when you’re working on a ladder or stretching to reach a ceiling drop.

The factory‑set clutch is conservative in a good way. When the bit snags on rebar or rubble, the tool reacts with a controlled release rather than whipping your wrist. I had a few binds drilling close to edges; each time, the clutch tripped predictably, and I was able to back out, clear the hole, and continue.

Dust management

This model is designed to integrate with DeWalt’s dust extractors. I ran it with the on‑board DWH303DH setup and a HEPA vac on larger runs. As an on‑tool solution for anchors, the DWH303DH worked better than I expected, kept the holes clean, and helped achieve OSHA Table 1 compliance on interior work. The added weight isn’t nothing, but the balance remains acceptable, and the visibility to the bit tip is good.

For tasks where I didn’t need the on‑board unit, a hose and shroud kept things tidy. Either way, the tool’s ergonomics don’t get in the way of dust collection, and that’s not always true with compact rotary hammers.

Runtime and platform

With a 5.0Ah XR battery, I averaged roughly:
- 35–45 holes at 3/8 x 2 inches in 3,500–4,000 psi concrete
- 12–18 holes at 1/2 x 4 inches

Concrete quality, bit sharpness, and temperature swing these numbers, but they’re representative of what I saw across multiple sites. If you’re drilling in softer block or doing smaller Tapcon holes, your count goes up substantially. The brushless motor helps keep heat in check, and it maintains pace well as the pack voltage sags.

Being on DeWalt’s 20V MAX XR platform is a practical plus if you’re already invested. The tool‑only approach keeps cost down for existing users, and the runtime scales nicely with higher‑capacity packs if you don’t mind the added weight.

Maintenance and bit handling

SDS‑Plus thrives on clean shanks and a touch of grease. Keep a small tube of bit grease in your kit and wipe shanks before insertion; it reduces wear on the chuck and helps prevent stickiness when you eject a hot bit after a long hole. I had one instance where a dusty, nicked shank resisted release; a quick reverse tap on the trigger and a twist freed it. Since then, I’ve been stricter about shank condition and haven’t had a repeat.

As with any rotary hammer, periodically check the side handle collar and depth rod for tightness, especially after sustained chipping.

What it is—and what it’s not

Strengths:
- Speed, control, and accuracy in the 5/32–1/2 inch range, which covers most anchors and Tapcons
- Excellent vibration control for a compact class hammer
- Thoughtful ergonomics for overhead and ladder work
- Useful safety clutch that prevents wrist‑yanking stalls
- Solid dust‑extraction options, including on‑board OSHA Table 1 compliance with the right attachment

Limitations:
- 2.1J impact energy is tuned for drilling efficiency, not heavy chipping or larger core work
- Tool‑only means you’ll need to budget for batteries and a charger if you’re new to the platform
- As with many compact hammers, bit ejection can get finicky if you neglect shank cleanliness or run overheated bits

Comparisons and context

Compared with heavier SDS‑Plus hammers in the 2.5–3.0J range, this unit is a touch slower on 1/2‑inch holes and extended chipping, but it wins on balance, vibration, and fatigue—especially overhead. Against compact cordless rivals, it stands out for its consistent pace in the 1/4–3/8 inch anchor range and the effectiveness of the vibration control. If your workload is 80% anchors and Tapcons with occasional light chipping, this is a more comfortable all‑day partner than some of the higher‑energy options.

Reliability and service

I didn’t experience any catastrophic failures. I did notice one odd hiccup after a long series of holes where the percussion felt weak; a quick rest, battery swap, and clearing dust from the chuck brought it back to normal. The tool carries a 3‑year limited warranty, which is appropriate for this class. As always, keeping your bits sharp and your chuck clean goes a long way toward preserving performance.

Who it’s for

  • Electricians, HVAC techs, and plumbers installing anchors and hangers, frequently overhead
  • General contractors and remodelers who want a cordless, go‑anywhere SDS‑Plus for common concrete tasks
  • Facilities teams that need an OSHA‑friendly dust solution with on‑board extraction

If your work leans toward demolition, trenching for conduit in hard concrete, or frequent 1‑inch holes, you’ll be happier moving up to a heavier SDS‑Plus or an SDS‑Max.

Recommendation

I recommend this DeWalt rotary hammer for anyone who spends most of the day drilling 5/32–1/2 inch holes in concrete and masonry and values low vibration, good ergonomics, and clean dust control options. It isn’t the most powerful SDS‑Plus on the market, but it’s a well‑balanced, reliable performer in the sizes most trades use, and it’s especially strong overhead. Pair it with sharp bits, keep the chuck clean, and run 5.0Ah (or larger) XR packs, and you’ll have a compact concrete drill that feels purpose‑built for day‑to‑day anchor work.



Project Ideas

Business

Dustless Anchoring & Wall-Mount Service

Offer OSHA Table 1–compliant drilling for TVs, shelving, handrails, bike racks, and server racks in concrete/CMU/brick. Market to property managers and offices. Price per-hole or per-mount, include hardware, and upsell post-install patch/paint caps. Promote low mess with on-board dust extraction.


Tile/Thinset Removal & Small Demo

Provide chip-mode removal of bathroom/kitchen tile, thinset, and small concrete high spots. The compact, low-vibration tool shines in tight bathrooms and overhead soffits. Bill per square foot with add-ons for surface prep and debris hauling; schedule fast-turn renos between tenants.


ADA/Seismic Retrofit Anchoring

Install grab bars, guardrails, equipment restraints, and safety anchors in multifamily and commercial spaces. Use hammer drill for 3/8–1/2 in. anchors and document torque/installation for compliance. Sell site assessments, clear pricing per fixture, and maintenance checks annually.


Garage & Storage System Installs

Specialize in mounting overhead racks, slatwall, bike pulleys, and workbench anchors into concrete/block. Offer bundled packages (Bronze/Silver/Gold) with hardware included. The clutch and vibration control reduce operator fatigue for full-day installs; cordless mobility speeds multi-garage routes.


Exterior Signage & Lighting Mounting

Drill and anchor storefront signs, conduit clips, and wall packs into masonry. Chip small chase paths for low-voltage lines and seal penetrations. Market to small retailers and restaurants; offer night or off-hour installs to minimize disruption. Flat-rate pricing by fixture size and substrate.

Creative

Floating Concrete Wall Planters

Use the hammer drill mode with 3/8–1/2 in. SDS-Plus bits to set sleeve or wedge anchors for heavy-duty planter brackets on block or poured walls. Chip shallow channels to hide drip irrigation lines, then switch to drill-only for tile or brick veneer. Pair with a dust extractor for a clean, plant-ready install.


Stone-and-Rebar Garden Bench/Sculpture

Drill precise 3/8 in. holes through river stones or flagstone and epoxy #3 rebar dowels to pin pieces together into a sculptural bench or stacked cairn. The L-shape and active vibration control help with steady, vertical drilling, and the clutch adds safety if a bit binds in dense stone.


Outdoor Hangboard & Pegboard Trainer

Anchor a climbing hangboard and campus/pegboard onto a CMU garage wall with 3/8–1/2 in. wedge anchors. The compact design makes overhead drilling manageable, and the brushless motor maintains speed for consistent hole depth. Use dust extraction to keep chalk and concrete dust under control.


Slate Sound Sculpture Wind Chime

In drill-only mode with carbide or diamond-tipped bits, bore clean holes in slate or flagstone pieces to hang as tuned chimes. Mount stainless eyelets into masonry using hammer-drilled anchors. Light chipping along edges creates different tones and textures for a custom sound sculpture.


Pizza Oven Base Upgrade

Anchor a steel stand or modular base to a patio slab using 1/2 in. anchors drilled in hammer mode. Chip a shallow trench to route a temperature probe or low-voltage lighting cable beneath pavers. The retractable utility hook keeps the tool handy during layout and leveling.