DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Combo Kit

When I first picked up the DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Combo Kit, I was immediately impressed by its compact design and lightweight feel. Each tool in this kit offers a well-balanced and ergonomic experience that makes handling them for extended periods less fatiguing. The compact size, especially the drill/driver which measures just 6.3 inches from front to back, allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces—a feature that has proven invaluable on numerous occasions.

One of the standout features for me is the inclusion of brushless motors. These motors not only enhance the efficiency and runtime of the tools but also promise a longer lifespan compared to their brushed counterparts. The brushless technology eliminates the worry of brush wear and susceptibility to humidity, making these tools more durable and reliable for a variety of tasks.

The drill/driver offers a variable speed trigger, giving excellent control, especially on delicate surfaces. I found this feature particularly useful when working on finer projects where precision is key. The drill also boasts 340 Unit Watts Out (UWO) of power, which is ample for most household and DIY tasks. The 1/2 inch ratcheting chuck ensures a strong grip on the bits, reducing the chances of slippage during use.

On the other hand, the impact driver in this combo kit delivers an impressive 1700 in-lbs of torque. This power has been more than sufficient for driving large screws and bolts, even through tougher materials like solid cedar lumber. The impact driver’s performance was especially evident when dismantling a large wooden playset, where it effortlessly handled lag bolts and screws with ease. However, it is worth noting that the impact driver lacks a speed switch with low, medium, and high settings, which could offer more control for delicate tasks.

Visibility in dimly lit areas is often a challenge, but DeWalt has addressed this with three bright LEDs on the drill/driver and an LED foot light on the impact driver. These lights significantly enhance visibility, making it easier to work in poorly lit environments like garages or basements. The LEDs are bright and well-placed, ensuring that the work area is illuminated without casting shadows.

The kit comes with two 20V MAX Lithium-Ion batteries, each with a capacity of 1.3Ah. While these batteries are adequate for most home use scenarios, they may fall short for more demanding tasks. I found that upgrading to higher capacity batteries, such as 5Ah versions, greatly extended the runtime and made the tools even more versatile. The batteries charge relatively quickly, and the inclusion of a belt clip adds a touch of convenience, especially when working on ladders or in other elevated positions.

Despite the many positives, the kit is not without its drawbacks. One major issue I encountered was with the drill’s chuck. Over time, it became difficult to tighten and loosen by hand, and on several occasions, the drill bits would slip during use. This is a significant inconvenience that detracts from the overall experience of an otherwise reliable tool.

Another minor gripe is the lack of a bit holder on the drill. The kit includes belt clips, which I rarely use, and I would have preferred a bit holder for easier access to different bits during projects. Additionally, the storage bag included in the kit is somewhat underwhelming. It is smaller than expected and does not offer much in terms of organization or protection. For a premium brand like DeWalt, a more robust and functional storage solution would have been appreciated.

The build quality of the tools is generally solid, but there have been occasional reports of defects out of the box, such as issues with the chuck or battery life. These instances seem to be relatively rare, but they are worth mentioning as they can impact the initial impression and usability of the tools.

In terms of overall performance, the DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Combo Kit lives up to the high standards one would expect from DeWalt. The tools are powerful, easy to use, and the brushless motors provide a noticeable boost in efficiency and longevity. The compact and lightweight design makes them highly portable and comfortable to use for extended periods, which is a significant advantage for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In conclusion, I would recommend the DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Combo Kit to anyone in need of reliable and versatile power tools. Despite a few minor issues, the overall performance, build quality, and convenience offered by this kit make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you are a DIY hobbyist or a professional, these tools are likely to meet and exceed your expectations, providing the power and precision needed for a wide range of tasks.