DeWalt 60V MAX 1-1/4 in. Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer

The DeWalt 60V MAX 1-1/4 in. Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer is a powerful tool designed to tackle a variety of heavy-duty tasks. Having spent some time with this rotary hammer, I can confidently say it brings a lot to the table in terms of performance, versatility, and convenience. However, it's not without its quirks.

First and foremost, the most striking feature of this rotary hammer is its brushless motor. The brushless design translates to improved efficiency and longer runtime, which is crucial when you're working on demanding projects. The motor is paired with a robust mechanism that delivers an impressive 4.5 Joules of impact energy, making it highly effective for drilling into concrete, among other materials. I found that this level of impact energy made quick work of even the toughest concrete surfaces, saving both time and effort.

One of the standout aspects of this tool is its midweight design. Weighing in at 9 lbs, it strikes a balance between being heavy enough to provide the necessary force and light enough to handle comfortably. This balance is particularly beneficial when working on tasks that require precision and control. The tool's ergonomic design further enhances its usability, allowing for extended use without excessive fatigue.

In terms of user comfort, the vibration control system is a significant plus. This feature helps to reduce the amount of vibration that reaches your hands and arms, making it more comfortable to use over long periods. Additionally, the anti-rotation system is a welcome addition, as it prevents the tool from binding up during operation. This not only enhances safety but also ensures a smoother and more consistent performance.

Another noteworthy feature is the tool's compliance with OSHA Table 1 when used with specific accessories. This compliance is critical for maintaining a safe work environment, particularly when dealing with silica dust. The dial for setting specific application modes is also a thoughtful touch, allowing for quick adjustments based on the task at hand. Whether you're drilling into concrete, chiseling, or performing another application, this dial lets you tailor the tool's performance to suit your needs.

One of the more innovative features of this rotary hammer is its tag-ready capability for tracking with the DEWALT Site Manager app. This feature is particularly useful for those who work in environments where tools are shared or easily misplaced. Being able to track the tool's location adds an extra layer of security and convenience.

While the tool excels in many areas, it's not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant issues I encountered was related to battery life. The tool is powered by a 60V battery, which provides ample power for demanding tasks. However, the battery life can be somewhat limited, especially when performing continuous heavy-duty work. In my experience, the battery lasted for about 35 holes of 1/2 inch diameter and 1 ft depth in concrete. While this is decent, it might not be sufficient for larger projects without multiple batteries on hand.

Additionally, there was an instance where the tool worked flawlessly on the first day but required a trip to the repair shop shortly after. While this could be an isolated incident, it's worth noting that reliability can be a concern. Having to deal with repairs can be a significant inconvenience, especially when you're in the middle of a project.

Despite these issues, the overall performance and features of the DeWalt 60V MAX SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer make it a compelling option. The combination of power, versatility, and user-friendly features makes it a valuable addition to any tool arsenal. Whether you're removing ceramic tile, drilling anchor rods, or performing other heavy-duty tasks, this rotary hammer is up to the challenge.

In conclusion, I would recommend the DeWalt 60V MAX SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer for those who need a powerful and versatile tool for demanding applications. Its brushless motor, robust impact energy, and user-friendly features make it a standout performer. However, it's essential to be mindful of the battery life and potential reliability issues. If you have access to multiple batteries and are prepared for occasional maintenance, this rotary hammer can be a reliable and efficient tool for your projects.