DeWalt 20V MAX* 5/8 in. Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer

Navigating the world of power tools can sometimes feel like walking through a maze, especially when you're on the lookout for a reliable and efficient rotary hammer. The DeWalt 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer, model DCH172D2, promises a blend of power and portability that piqued my interest. After putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share my experience with this compact yet mighty tool.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about this rotary hammer is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at just a few pounds, it’s easy to handle, even in overhead or tight spaces. This makes it particularly suitable for tasks like mounting applications and drilling holes in concrete or masonry. The tool's compact nature doesn't compromise its performance, and I found it to be a breeze to maneuver around congested work areas.

Performance and Power

The brushless motor is one of the standout features of this rotary hammer. It offers 1.4 joules of impact energy, which is impressive for such a compact tool. During my testing, it drilled through concrete with ease, making quick work of smaller holes up to its max capacity. For larger jobs, you might need a heftier drill, but for the majority of tasks, this rotary hammer is more than adequate.

Another commendable feature is the active vibration control system. Even during prolonged use, the vibration at the handles is minimal, reducing user fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who need to drill multiple holes or work for extended periods.

Battery Life

The tool comes with two 2.0Ah batteries, which are somewhat of a mixed bag. On one hand, the batteries keep the tool lightweight and easy to handle, which is great for smaller jobs and DIY projects. However, under heavy use, particularly in hammer mode, the batteries tend to drain quickly. I found myself needing to swap out batteries more frequently than I would have liked. For those planning to use this tool extensively, investing in higher capacity batteries might be a wise choice.

Ease of Use

Switching between the drill and hammer functions is seamless, thanks to the intuitive mode selector switch. This feature allows for quick transitions, which is handy when you need to switch tasks on the fly. The tool also includes an OSHA Table 1 compliant dust extraction system when used with specific accessories, promoting a safer and cleaner work environment.

Storage and Accessories

One minor gripe I had was with the carrying case. While it’s sturdy and keeps the tool protected, there’s no dedicated space for drill bits. They end up loose in the case, which can be a bit annoying, especially when you're in a hurry. An improvement in the storage design to include compartments for bits would make this tool even more user-friendly.

Durability and Reliability

I’ve had this tool for several months now, and it has held up well under various conditions. From drilling into concrete walls for shelving installations to lighter tasks like kitchen fitting, it has proven to be a reliable companion. However, there was an isolated instance of the tool malfunctioning shortly after purchase, where it would stop running intermittently. This was a frustrating experience, but it seemed to be an outlier rather than the norm.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer is a fantastic tool for those in need of a lightweight, powerful, and versatile rotary hammer. Its compact design and brushless motor make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from professional installations to DIY projects.

However, the battery life under heavy use and the lack of dedicated storage for bits in the carrying case are areas that could use some improvement. Despite these minor drawbacks, the tool's performance, ease of use, and durability make it a solid addition to any toolbox.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the DeWalt 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless SDS PLUS Rotary Hammer? Absolutely. For those looking for a reliable and efficient rotary hammer that doesn’t compromise on power despite its compact size, this tool is a great choice. Its performance in drilling through concrete and other tough materials, combined with its user-friendly features and lightweight design, make it a valuable asset for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

If you’re in the market for a rotary hammer that balances performance with portability, the DeWalt DCH172D2 is well worth considering. Just be prepared to possibly invest in higher capacity batteries if you plan on using it for extended periods or more demanding tasks. Overall, it’s a tool that delivers on its promises and earns its place in any serious toolkit.