Best Power Tools

DEWALT DC720KA Cordless 18-Volt Compact Drill/Driver

The DEWALT DC720KA 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Drill/Driver Kit is built around a versatile tool that makes quick work of a variety of driving and fastening tasks. With its high-performance, frameless motor; dual-range, variable-speed control; and comfortable grip, this tool is powerful and easy to handle. The Drill/Driver Kit includes a convenient one-hour Ni-Cad charger, two 18-volt Ni-Cad batteries, and a sturdy kit box.18-Volt 1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Drill/Driver Kit
At a Glance:P

Reviews

By Amadeuz (Austin, TX USA)

As a matter of full disclosure, I am using this drill as a DIY homeowner on minor projects. This drill was my upgrade into the world of pro-grade power tools from a cheapo 14.4V Black & Decker drill. I upgraded primarily because I was frustrated by having to drill pilot holes for lag screws all the time due to the lack of power. Furthermore, my former so-called variable speed drill only had two speeds, namely 400 or 800 rpm, nothing in between so I was constantly stripping screw heads. After doing some serious research into Makita, Milwaukee, Hitachi, and Dewalt, I chose Dewalt. Why? Because of the power and construction of the tool. Dewalt uses its own measurement of torque (Unit Watts Out) whereas most other companies list max torque in ft-lbs. In my opinion, I best equate UWO to the amplifier rating in audio receivers. In receivers, many companies list their amplifier rating with only one channel driven. Rarely do companies list amplifier rating with all channels driven. UWO, to me, is Dewalt's real world sustained torque rating like all channels driven in an amplifier. So for this drill, although Dewalt lists it at 410 UWO, I think this probably equates to nearly peak torque of at least 450 ft lbs if not more. Also, I really liked the fact that Dewalt uses all-metal gears and it has solid magnet construction in its motor.

For whatever reason, although most companies have wholeheartedly embraced the Lion technology, Dewalt has chose to slowly move into it and, thus, still has a large portion of tools with NiCd batteries. I really debated about the whole NiCd v Lion thing. But really, for my purposes, I doubt I will be using the drill so much that I will use up 2 batteries. I really think having a back-up battery negates the charge time issue. Of course there's the weight issue, but again, for me, a difference in weigh of 6-8 oz is not a game breaker.

The closest drill to the DC720KA was the Hitachi DS18DSAL. Really solidly constructed drill with good power. Unfortunately, from a purely superficial standpoint, the Hitachi looks like a toy with the green molding. So I went with the Dewalt. In terms of real world performance, really happy so far. Was able to drill 2" long - 1/8" dia. screws into studs without a pilot, no problem. This sucker has power. Really like the LED light. The added heft of the NiCd gives the drill really good balance. Trigger felt right and was able to modulate speed very accurately (true variable speed!). I hope this review helps because other reviews just seem to spout off Dewalt sucks or "it's not lithium so it sucks" type comments.

DEWALT DC720KA Cordless 18-Volt Compact Drill/Driver

By Lewis P. Jones III

18 volt drill/driverdc/720ka dewalt cordless drill, use it to fix rubber maid mail box where teenager keep knocking off post, put 2" # 10 screws in it all around sides keep from having to buy another $80 mail box, it was simple with drill , tried doing by hand could not get screw in the box .great power ,finished job easy and quick . must have drill .great sale price.