Skil Brushless 20V 1/2 IN. Drill Driver Kit

Exploring the capabilities of the Skil Brushless 20V 1/2 IN. Drill Driver Kit has been quite a journey. This drill driver is designed with versatility and power in mind, making it a suitable option for both DIY enthusiasts and more seasoned woodworkers. Let's dive into its performance, features, and overall usability.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

One of the first things I noticed about the Skil 20V Drill Driver is its robust build quality. The drill feels solid in hand without being overly heavy. Weighing approximately 2.23 pounds (excluding the battery), it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and portability. The textured finish on the chuck provides a secure grip, making bit changes easy and comfortable. The keyless metal chuck is a significant improvement over traditional chucks, allowing for quick and straightforward bit swaps without requiring additional tools.

The drill also features a well-designed belt clip, which is substantial enough to hook onto a belt or tool belt securely. This is a small but valuable addition, especially for those who need to keep their hands free while working on ladders or tight spaces.

Performance and Power

The performance of this drill driver is where it truly shines. Powered by a 20V Lithium-Ion battery, it offers two-speed settings, ranging from 0-480 RPM and 0-1800 RPM. This range allows for precision in various tasks, from delicate screwdriving to more demanding drilling operations. The variable speed switch is responsive and smooth, providing excellent control over the drill's speed and torque.

The drill comes with 17 torque settings plus a drilling mode, making it versatile enough to handle different materials, including wood, metal, and even some masonry. I tested it on some 4-inch lag bolts and was impressed with how effortlessly it drove them into solid wood. The torque settings are easy to adjust, and the transition between drilling and driving modes is seamless.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is often a concern with cordless tools, but the Skil 20V Drill Driver exceeded my expectations. The included 2.0Ah battery offers substantial runtime, and the PWR ASSIST™ feature allows you to charge other devices via a USB port. This came in handy more times than I expected, especially for quick phone charges in the workshop.

The automatic charger is another highlight. It charges the battery quickly, minimizing downtime. In my experience, the battery charged from empty to full in about 30 minutes, which is impressive. This fast charging capability ensures that you can keep working without long interruptions.

LED Lighting and Additional Features

The integrated LED light is a thoughtful addition. It illuminates the work area effectively, making it easier to work in dimly lit spaces. The light has a pre-light and after-glow feature, which means it stays on for a few seconds after releasing the trigger. This is particularly useful when making adjustments between tasks.

One of the standout features is the PWR ASSIST™ mobile charging capability. This allows you to use the drill's battery as a power bank, a feature that proved surprisingly useful. Whether it was charging my phone or powering a small USB fan, it added an extra layer of convenience.

Drawbacks and Areas for Improvement

While the Skil 20V Drill Driver has many strengths, it is not without its drawbacks. The keyless chuck, although generally effective, has a tendency to release bits under high torque settings. This can be frustrating, especially when working on a ladder or in a position where retrieving a dropped bit is inconvenient. It's a minor issue but one that Skil could improve upon in future models.

Another area for improvement is the lack of onboard bit storage. Many other drills have a slot or holder for an extra bit, which is convenient for quick bit changes. The absence of this feature means you need to keep track of your bits separately, which can be a bit cumbersome during extended projects.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the Skil Brushless 20V 1/2 IN. Drill Driver Kit is a solid performer that offers excellent value for its price. Its combination of power, battery life, and user-friendly features make it a versatile tool suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you're building furniture, installing fixtures, or even using it for non-traditional tasks like cleaning with brush attachments, this drill won't disappoint.

The minor issues with the keyless chuck and lack of bit storage are outweighed by the drill's many strengths, including its fast charging, long battery life, and robust build quality. If you're in the market for a reliable and powerful drill driver, the Skil 20V Drill Driver is a highly recommended choice. Its performance and features make it a valuable addition to any toolbox, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional.