DeWalt Cordless Tripod Light

The DeWalt Cordless Tripod Light, model DCL079R1, is an impressive and versatile addition to any worksite or home toolkit. As someone who frequently finds themselves working in poorly lit environments, this light has been a game-changer in terms of both convenience and performance.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the robust build of this light. The durable shroud around the light head promises longevity, and the overall construction feels well-engineered to withstand the rigors of a jobsite. The unit folds up compactly, which makes it easy to transport and store, an often-overlooked feature that makes a significant difference in usability.

The design includes a telescoping pole that extends up to 7 feet, allowing you to elevate the light source to minimize shadows and glare effectively. This height flexibility is fantastic for various applications, from detailed repair work to general area illumination.

Lighting Performance

The light output of this model is simply outstanding. It offers up to 3000 lumens of natural white LED light, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. One of the standout features is the three brightness settings, which allow you to adjust the illumination according to your needs. Whether you’re framing in the early morning or working late into the night, this light ensures you have the visibility required to get the job done accurately and safely.

What's even more impressive is how well the light distributes. The directional head can be easily aimed to focus on specific areas, which is particularly useful for tasks that require concentrated lighting. Unlike traditional halogen work lights, which can get excessively hot, the LED technology used here remains cool to the touch, making it safer to handle even after extended use.

Battery Life

Battery life is another crucial aspect where this tool excels. The light runs on DeWalt's 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery system, providing over 11 hours of runtime on a suitable battery. From my experience, using a 5.0Ah battery on the low setting provides several hours of continuous light, which is more than adequate for most workdays. However, for those planning to use the light in high brightness mode for extended periods, it’s advisable to have an extra battery on hand or invest in higher capacity batteries like the 6.0Ah or even the 60V MAX* flex volt options.

One minor gripe is the lack of an option to plug the light into a 120V power outlet. This feature could have eliminated the need to swap batteries, making it even more convenient. However, the battery warning feature, which flashes the light intermittently for about 15 minutes before the battery is drained, helps mitigate this minor inconvenience by giving you ample time to switch batteries.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The DCL079R1 boasts an IP54 rating for dust and weather resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor conditions. However, I did encounter an issue where the unit failed to operate after exposure to light rain, which was disappointing given its weather-resistant claims. It’s best to be cautious and avoid exposing the light to wet conditions if possible.

Practical Applications

This light is undeniably versatile. For professional environments like roofing or HVAC installations, the DeWalt Cordless Tripod Light is indispensable. It’s also a fantastic tool for DIY enthusiasts who might need reliable lighting for home renovation projects or even as an emergency light during power outages. The telescoping feature and directional head make it easy to set up and adjust, saving time and effort.

Usability

Setting up and breaking down the tripod is a breeze. The legs extend and retract smoothly, and the entire unit is stable once set up. At around 40 inches in stow-away mode, it’s compact enough to fit into tight spaces or the backseat of your truck. When fully extended to 89 inches, it provides an excellent height for most tasks.

Areas of Improvement

While the majority of my experience has been positive, there are a few areas where the light could improve:
- Leg Durability: Some reports suggest that the leg braces are prone to breaking. While I haven’t encountered this issue personally, it’s something to keep an eye on.
- Weather Resistance: As mentioned, the light didn’t hold up well in light rain, despite its IP54 rating. Ensuring the light is fully weatherproof would enhance its reliability.
- 120V Adapter: An option to plug into a standard power outlet would add a layer of convenience, especially for extended use.

Conclusion

Overall, the DeWalt Cordless Tripod Light DCL079R1 is an excellent tool that combines robust build quality, impressive light output, and versatility. Its ease of use, compact storage, and adjustable height make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from professional jobsites to home projects.

Despite a couple of minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you’re looking for a reliable, bright, and portable lighting solution, I highly recommend adding this light to your collection. It’s a tool that you might not realize you need until you have it—and then you won’t want to be without it.