DeWalt Handheld Axial Blower

The DeWalt Handheld Axial Blower, model DCBL772X1, is a robust addition to the ever-popular DeWalt lineup. As someone who frequently uses a variety of tools for different tasks, I was eager to see how this blower would perform, especially given its impressive specifications and features. With a high-efficiency brushless motor, air volume of up to 600 CFM at 125 mph, and a variable speed trigger with speed lock, this blower promises a lot on paper. Here’s my take after putting it through its paces.

Build and Design

Straight out of the box, the blower feels incredibly sturdy. DeWalt has done a commendable job ensuring the tool’s durability, which is evident from its heavy-duty construction. The design is also quite ergonomic, making it comfortable to handle for extended periods. The mid-air intake is a thoughtful touch, preventing any clothing from being sucked into the intake, which is a common issue with side-intake designs.

Performance and Power

The blower excels in terms of raw power. The 60V MAX* 3Ah battery included with the blower provides a significant punch, allowing the tool to move substantial amounts of debris with ease. From small sticks to wet leaves, the blower handles it all. It even manages to blow away heavier debris like pine cones and pine needles, which is quite impressive for a battery-operated tool. The variable speed trigger is a fantastic feature, offering precise control over the airflow and making it easy to manage different types of debris without having to stop and adjust settings.

Battery Life

While the power of the blower is admirable, it comes at a cost—battery life. The included 3Ah battery, in my experience, lasted around 10-15 minutes of continuous heavy use. This short run-time can be quite limiting, especially for larger yards or more intensive tasks. For lighter, quick clean-ups, the battery life is sufficient, but for more extensive jobs, you’ll find yourself needing multiple batteries or frequent recharges. I used a 9Ah battery as well, which extended the run time but not as much as I had hoped. The blower seems to be quite power-hungry, and you might need to invest in higher capacity batteries or multiple 9Ah batteries to get through more demanding tasks.

Noise Level

Another point worth mentioning is the noise level. While the blower is quieter than most gas-powered models, it is still fairly loud, especially at full power. I found it necessary to use ear protection during extended use. However, the reduced noise compared to gas models is a significant plus, particularly for those living in noise-sensitive areas.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this blower is its ease of use. The variable speed trigger and speed lock make it incredibly user-friendly. The blower is well-balanced and not too heavy, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use. It’s also straightforward to assemble and get started with, requiring minimal setup.

Reliability and Durability

Unfortunately, my experience with the battery life and the blower’s overall reliability wasn’t entirely positive. After several uses, I noticed a decline in battery performance, and the blower began to feel less powerful. I also experienced some overheating issues, which led me to question the long-term durability of the tool. Despite these setbacks, the build quality of the blower itself remained solid, with no signs of physical wear or tear.

Value for Money

Given its powerful performance and ease of use, the DeWalt blower offers good value for those who need a robust tool for quick, powerful clean-ups. However, the short battery life and potential reliability issues could make it a less attractive option for those with larger properties or more demanding tasks. The need for additional batteries, which are quite costly, adds to the overall expense, making it a significant investment.

Conclusion

Would I recommend the DeWalt Handheld Axial Blower? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re looking for a powerful, easy-to-use blower for quick clean-ups and smaller tasks, this tool is an excellent choice. Its robust build and impressive power make it a top contender in its category. However, if you have a larger property or need a blower for more intensive tasks, you might find the short battery life and potential reliability issues to be a deal-breaker. In such cases, investing in additional batteries or considering a gas-powered alternative might be more practical.

Overall, the DeWalt Handheld Axial Blower is a powerful and convenient tool, but it requires careful consideration of your specific needs and the potential additional costs involved.