Black & Decker Hammer Drill

The Black & Decker Hammer Drill, model BEHD201, is a versatile and robust tool designed to meet the needs of both DIY enthusiasts and more experienced users tackling challenging tasks. After spending some time with this drill, I can confidently say that it strikes a commendable balance between power, usability, and affordability.

First impressions of the drill are quite positive. It's relatively lightweight at just over 4 pounds, making it easy to handle for extended periods without causing significant fatigue. The build quality, while predominantly plastic, feels solid and dependable. The plastic construction does raise some concerns about long-term durability, especially for heavy-duty use, but for most home projects, this shouldn't pose a significant issue.

One of the standout features of this hammer drill is its 6.5 Amp motor, which delivers an impressive 48,000 beats per minute (BPM). This power is more than sufficient for drilling through tough materials like concrete and masonry, a task that the BEHD201 handles with surprising ease. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control, making it suitable for a range of materials beyond just masonry, including wood and metal.

Switching between standard drilling and hammer drilling modes is straightforward with the 2-position toggle switch. This feature adds to the drill's versatility, allowing it to adapt to various tasks without requiring multiple tools. The drill also includes a 3-position side handle, which significantly enhances stability and control during use. This is particularly beneficial when drilling into harder materials, where additional support is essential for accuracy and safety.

The 1/2 inch single-sleeve keyless chuck is another feature worth highlighting. Changing bits is quick and easy, which is a significant time-saver on any project. The chuck's grip is strong and reliable, ensuring that bits stay securely in place during use. However, I did find that the chuck can be somewhat finicky, especially when switching between larger and smaller bits. It requires several turns to fully open or close, which can be a minor inconvenience.

In terms of performance, the Black & Decker Hammer Drill truly shines. It effortlessly drills through concrete, bricks, and other masonry materials, making it an invaluable tool for any home improvement project involving these materials. The drill also performs admirably on wood and metal, although its primary strength lies in its hammer drilling capability.

One aspect that users should be aware of is the noise level. The drill is quite loud, particularly when in hammer mode. This is somewhat expected given the power it delivers, but it's worth considering if you plan to use it in a noise-sensitive environment. Additionally, the drill tends to get hot during extended use, so it's advisable to take breaks to prevent overheating and ensure the tool's longevity.

The corded design of the BEHD201 means that you have continuous power without the need for recharging. This is a significant advantage for longer projects, although it does mean you're tethered to a power source. The cord itself is of adequate length, providing enough flexibility for most tasks without being cumbersome.

One minor drawback I encountered is that the drill does not come with any bits included. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it does mean you'll need to purchase the appropriate bits separately if you don't already have them. For those new to using hammer drills, this could add a bit of extra time and expense to get started.

Despite some minor limitations, the Black & Decker Hammer Drill is an impressive tool that offers excellent value for its price. It's powerful, versatile, and user-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of home improvement tasks. Whether you're drilling into concrete, masonry, wood, or metal, this drill is up to the challenge.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Black & Decker Hammer Drill for anyone looking for a reliable and capable tool to add to their collection. It excels in its primary function of hammer drilling, while also providing solid performance for standard drilling tasks. Its ease of use, combined with the thoughtful inclusion of features like the side handle and keyless chuck, makes it a practical choice for both novices and experienced users alike. If you're in the market for a hammer drill that won't break the bank but still delivers on performance and versatility, the BEHD201 is a worthy contender.