Skil Brushless 20V Compact Drill Driver and Impact Driver Kit

Having spent a considerable amount of time with the Skil Brushless 20V Compact Drill Driver and Impact Driver Kit, I can confidently say that this tool set has a lot to offer for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. The kit includes both a drill driver and an impact driver, making it versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks. Here’s my detailed review of this compact powerhouse.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this kit is its compact design. Both the drill driver and impact driver are lightweight and easy to handle, which is a significant advantage when working in tight spaces. The drill driver weighs just 1.92 pounds, while the impact driver comes in at 2.01 pounds. Despite their light weight, these tools don’t feel flimsy. They have a solid build quality, and the rubber grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.

Performance

Drill Driver

The drill driver features a variable speed trigger, allowing for precise control over the speed, which ranges from 0-500 RPM in low gear to 0-1,800 RPM in high gear. With a maximum torque of 450 in-lbs, it’s powerful enough to handle most drilling tasks with ease. The 17+1 clutch settings provide a range of torque adjustments, ensuring that you can deliver the right amount of power for different applications. The keyless ratcheting chuck makes bit changes quick and hassle-free, and it can accommodate bits up to ½ inch.

One of the standout features is the integrated LED work light. It’s bright and well-placed, illuminating your work area effectively, which is particularly useful when working in dimly lit spaces.

Impact Driver

The impact driver is equally impressive, delivering a claimed torque of 1,800 in-lbs. It has a no-load speed range of 1,800 to 3,100 RPM and an impact rate of up to 3,950 IPM, making it ideal for driving screws and loosening bolts. The 1/4-inch collet capacity allows for quick bit changes, and like the drill driver, it also features an integrated LED light.

However, I did notice that the buttons controlling the light and power settings on the impact driver are easily bumped, which can be a bit frustrating in a busy work environment. A simple switch would have been a more practical design choice here.

Battery and Charging

The kit includes a lithium battery and a speed charger, which is a significant plus in commercial environments. The battery charges quickly, often faster than I can use it, and it even features a USB port for charging mobile devices. This is a thoughtful addition that adds to the overall convenience of the kit. The battery life is impressive, allowing me to complete multiple projects on a single charge.

Usability and Comfort

Both tools are designed with user comfort in mind. Their compact size makes them easy to maneuver, and the balance is excellent, reducing strain during prolonged use. The variable speed triggers on both tools provide fine control, which is particularly useful for delicate tasks. The lightweight design doesn’t compromise on power, making these tools suitable for both light and heavy-duty jobs.

Areas for Improvement

While the kit is excellent overall, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The most notable is the lack of a carrying case or bag. Given the quality and versatility of the tools, it would have been nice to have a dedicated storage solution. Additionally, the direction button on the drill driver could be a bit stiffer. I found that it’s easy to accidentally switch it to neutral, which can interrupt workflow.

Durability and Warranty

Durability is always a concern with power tools, but the Skil kit seems to hold up well under regular use. I’ve used it for various tasks, including drilling into wood, metal, and even masonry with the impact driver, and it has performed admirably. The build quality inspires confidence, and the tools feel robust enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

Skil stands behind their products, offering a warranty that provides peace of mind. In my experience, their customer service is responsive and willing to honor the warranty, which is a significant plus.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Skil Brushless 20V Compact Drill Driver and Impact Driver Kit is a fantastic addition to any toolbox. Its compact design, powerful performance, quick charging battery, and user-friendly features make it a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the easily bumped buttons on the impact driver and the lack of a carrying case, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

I would highly recommend this tool kit to anyone in need of a reliable, powerful, and compact drill and impact driver combo. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling home projects or a professional in need of a dependable set of tools, this kit is more than capable of meeting your needs. The combination of power, convenience, and durability makes it a standout choice in its category.