DeWalt Compact Hammerdrill Kit

As a long-time user of various power tools, I recently had the opportunity to put the DeWalt Compact Hammerdrill Kit (model DCD797D2) through its paces. This hammerdrill stands out in the crowded market of cordless tools with its blend of power, innovative features, and overall usability. However, it’s not without its flaws. Here’s a detailed look at my experience with this tool.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment I unboxed the DeWalt hammerdrill, it was clear that this tool was designed with durability and user comfort in mind. The hammerdrill boasts a compact and sturdy build, weighing in at 3.6 lbs and measuring 7.4 inches in length. The metal chuck collar is a significant upgrade from the plastic ones found on some other models, providing a more solid feel and better durability during heavy-duty tasks.

The comfort grip handle is another noteworthy feature. It’s ergonomically designed to offer better balance and reduce fatigue during extended use. This is particularly beneficial for those long projects where you need to maintain precision without compromising on comfort.

Performance and Power

The DeWalt hammerdrill is equipped with a brushless motor, which is a major advantage over traditional brushed motors. This brushless motor not only offers increased runtime but also delivers a maximum power of 460 UWO (Unit Watts Out). The tool features three speed settings, allowing for a maximum RPM of up to 2000. This range of speed settings makes it versatile enough for a variety of applications, from light drilling to more demanding tasks like drilling into concrete.

I tested the hammerdrill on several materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. It performed admirably across the board. Drilling into concrete, which can be a challenging task, was surprisingly effortless. The tool didn’t bog down, and the customizable RPM settings allowed me to adjust the speed according to the material and task at hand.

Battery Life and Bluetooth Connectivity

One of the standout features of this hammerdrill is its integration with DeWalt’s Tool Connect™ system. This Bluetooth-enabled feature allows for tool tracking and management through a mobile app and web portal. The “Last Seen” feature is particularly useful for keeping track of the tool’s location, which can be a lifesaver on busy job sites. Additionally, the app provides diagnostic information such as battery life, temperature, and usage statistics.

Speaking of battery life, the hammerdrill comes with two 2.0Ah batteries. While these batteries are adequate for lighter tasks, they tend to drain quickly during high-load applications like drilling into concrete. I found that upgrading to larger capacity batteries (such as 5.0Ah or 6.0Ah) significantly extended the runtime and made the tool more suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

User Experience and Customization

The DeWalt hammerdrill offers a range of customizable features that enhance the user experience. The integrated LED light is a nice touch, providing ample illumination for those dimly lit workspaces. The brightness and delay settings for the LED light can be adjusted via the Tool Connect™ app, which adds a layer of convenience.

One of the more unique features is the ability to set custom RPM settings through the app. This allows for precise control over the tool’s speed, making it easier to match the speed to the specific requirements of the task at hand. The app also offers alerts for unauthorized use or theft, adding an extra layer of security.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the DeWalt hammerdrill is not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant issues I encountered was the keyless chuck’s tendency to loosen during use in hammer mode. This is a well-documented problem and can be quite frustrating, especially when bits fly out unexpectedly. It’s a safety concern that DeWalt needs to address.

Another area of concern is the occasional battery failure. While my experience with the batteries was mostly positive, there were instances where one of the batteries refused to charge. This seems to be a recurring issue based on user feedback, and it’s something that DeWalt should look into.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt Compact Hammerdrill Kit is a powerful and versatile tool that excels in many areas. Its robust build, brushless motor, and innovative Tool Connect™ features make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. The ability to customize settings and track the tool via Bluetooth adds a modern touch that enhances the overall user experience.

However, the tool is not without its flaws. The keyless chuck issue and occasional battery failures are significant drawbacks that can’t be ignored. If you’re primarily using the hammerdrill for lighter tasks or have access to larger capacity batteries, these issues may be less of a concern.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the DeWalt Compact Hammerdrill Kit? Yes, but with some reservations. For professionals and serious DIYers who need a reliable and powerful tool with advanced features, this hammerdrill is a solid choice. Just be aware of the potential chuck and battery issues and consider investing in higher capacity batteries for more demanding tasks. If DeWalt addresses these concerns in future iterations, this tool could easily become a top contender in its category.