DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless 5-Tool Combo Kit

Acquiring a versatile toolset is essential for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. I recently had the opportunity to get my hands on the DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless 5-Tool Combo Kit (model DCKSS520D2), and I must say, it offers a lot of potential right out of the box. This kit includes five cordless tools: a drill/driver, impact driver, circular saw, work light, and reciprocating saw, along with two 2Ah lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid build quality. DeWalt has a reputation for manufacturing durable tools, and this set is no exception. Each tool feels substantial in hand without being overly heavy, a testament to their compact and lightweight design. The contractor bag is a nice touch as well. It has multiple pockets and a sturdy plastic base, making it easy to organize and carry the tools around.

Drill/Driver and Impact Driver

The drill/driver and impact driver are often the workhorses of any toolkit, and these certainly didn’t disappoint. The drill/driver features a 1-handed loading mechanism that accepts standard bit tips, which makes changing bits quick and easy. It's perfect for most home improvement tasks, from drilling pilot holes to assembling furniture.

The impact driver, on the other hand, packs a punch. It's robust and reliable, making it ideal for driving screws into tougher materials. Both tools have a good balance of power and battery efficiency. However, I did find that the batteries were a bit tricky to snap in and out at times. This might ease up with usage, but it’s worth noting.

Circular Saw

The circular saw is another standout in this kit. Its ability to cut 2x4's at a 45-degree angle in a single pass is incredibly useful for quick and accurate cuts. The saw handles well and the keyless blade clamp makes changing blades a breeze. This is especially helpful when you need to switch between different types of cuts quickly.

Reciprocating Saw

The reciprocating saw, equipped with a keyless blade clamp, also excels in convenience. Quick and easy blade changes are a significant advantage when you’re in the middle of a project. It’s powerful enough to handle most demolition tasks, whether you’re cutting through wood, metal, or plastic. It’s a tool that adds a lot of versatility to the set.

Work Light

The work light might seem like an afterthought, but it’s far from it. With an output of 110 lumens, it provides ample illumination for most work areas. It’s especially useful in dimly lit spaces like attics or basements. Just be careful not to look directly into the light to avoid seeing spots.

Performance and Battery Life

One of the aspects that stood out to me was the battery life. The 2Ah batteries lasted longer than I expected, even with continuous use. The brushless motors in the tools contribute to this efficiency, ensuring you get the most out of each charge. However, for extended use, especially in professional settings, upgrading to higher-capacity batteries might be a good idea.

Issues and Considerations

While this kit offers a lot of value, it’s not without its flaws. The most notable issue is the battery fit. In some cases, the batteries feel loose and can rattle during use. This can be quite annoying and might raise concerns about the tool's durability in rigorous environments. Additionally, installing the blade in the multi-tool can be cumbersome at first, although this might improve with time as the tool gets broken in.

Value for Money

At approximately $269, this combo kit is an excellent value for money. Individually, each tool would cost significantly more. For instance, the oscillating multi-tool alone is valued at around $130. The inclusion of multiple high-quality tools in one package makes it an attractive option for those looking to build or expand their tool collection without breaking the bank.

Who Is This Kit For?

This kit is perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and light to medium-duty tradespeople. The tools are reliable and versatile enough to handle a range of tasks from home renovation projects to small professional jobs. However, for heavy-duty contractors who need tools for intense, everyday use, the battery issues might be a dealbreaker.

Conclusion

Overall, the DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless 5-Tool Combo Kit is a solid investment for anyone in need of a versatile and reliable set of tools. Despite a few minor issues with the battery fit, the overall performance, build quality, and value for money make it a worthwhile purchase. Whether you’re tackling home improvement projects or need dependable tools for your professional work, this kit has you covered.

I would recommend this tool set for its impressive range of capabilities and the convenience it brings to various tasks. Just keep in mind the potential need for higher-capacity batteries if you plan on using these tools extensively.