Skil Brushless 12V Drill Driver & Multi-Tool Kit

The Skil Brushless 12V Drill Driver & Multi-Tool Kit, model CB738601, swiftly landed on my workbench as a promising addition to my tool arsenal. With a compact design and a host of thoughtful features, this kit seemed primed to handle a variety of home improvement tasks. After putting it to extensive use, here's my detailed take.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Skil 12V Drill Driver is noticeably lightweight and well-balanced. The drill’s weight distribution ensures that it doesn’t feel top-heavy, making it comfortable for prolonged use. The hybrid chuck, which combines the ease of a keyless system with the security of a ratchet, offers quick bit changes and a firm grip on various drill bits. The handle’s ergonomic design, complete with a rubberized grip, further enhances comfort, reducing hand fatigue during extended sessions.

Performance and Versatility

The Skil 12V Drill Driver excels in delivering power suitable for a range of tasks. Its brushless motor provides a smooth and consistent performance, making it a reliable tool for both small and medium-sized projects. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control, whether you're drilling pilot holes or driving screws. The two-speed gearbox, with settings for 0-450 RPM and 0-1700 RPM, effectively covers a wide spectrum of applications. Whether I was drilling into plywood or assembling furniture, the drill handled each task with aplomb.

The torque settings, 17+1 in total, offer versatility, ensuring that the drill can be fine-tuned for delicate tasks as well as more demanding ones. The maximum torque of 350 IN.lbs is more than sufficient for everyday DIY projects. However, it’s worth noting that for particularly tough materials or very large screws, this 12V drill might fall a bit short compared to its 18V counterparts.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit includes a 2.0Ah lithium battery and a charger, both of which are commendable. The battery life is impressive; I managed several hours of intermittent use before needing a recharge. The charger’s rapid charging capability, which juices up the battery to 25% in just 5 minutes, is a standout feature. This quick charge is particularly handy when you’re in the middle of a project and don’t want to wait long for a full charge. Additionally, the battery’s USB port is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to charge mobile devices on the go.

Oscillating Multi-Tool

The oscillating multi-tool included in the kit is a versatile addition. It's equipped with a 6-speed auto-sensing feature that adjusts the speed based on the task, ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 RPM. I found it particularly useful for sanding and cutting tasks where precision and control are crucial. The 3.6° oscillation angle effectively balances between aggressive cutting and fine detailing. The tool’s compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the automatic speed adjustment simplifies the operation, especially for beginners.

Practical Features

One of the highlights of the Skil 12V Drill Driver is the built-in LED light. It’s bright enough to illuminate dark workspaces, which proved invaluable during under-sink repairs and attic installations. The inclusion of a belt clip adds to the convenience, allowing easy access when climbing ladders or moving around a job site. The multi-tool also comes with 12 accessories, further extending its utility for various applications.

Areas for Improvement

While the Skil 12V Drill Driver is packed with features, it is not without its minor flaws. The hybrid chuck, although efficient, occasionally required extra tightening to secure larger bits firmly. This is a minor inconvenience but noteworthy. Also, for tasks requiring heavy-duty drilling or driving, the 12V motor, despite its brushless design, may not provide the same level of power as higher voltage tools. Thus, it’s best suited for light to medium-duty tasks rather than heavy construction work.

Conclusion

After weeks of hands-on experience with the Skil Brushless 12V Drill Driver & Multi-Tool Kit, I can confidently say that it’s a solid performer for home improvement enthusiasts and hobbyists. Its lightweight design, coupled with robust features like the hybrid chuck, LED light, and quick charging battery, make it a versatile and user-friendly tool.

I would recommend this tool kit for anyone looking for a reliable, compact, and affordable drill driver that doesn’t compromise on essential functionalities. It’s particularly well-suited for DIY projects, light carpentry work, and routine household repairs. For professional contractors or those needing a powerhouse for heavy-duty tasks, a more robust 18V or 20V option might be a better fit. Nonetheless, the Skil 12V toolkit strikes an excellent balance between performance and convenience, making it a worthwhile addition to any DIY toolkit.