DeWalt Power Tools – Cordless Right-Angle Drills

My girlfriend has crazy ideas about me fitting kitchens and so thought I would review my choices of right angle drill for the job.

Dewalt Corded Right Angle Drill – My Current Power Tool

I currently have a DeWalt Corded Right Angle Drill, the DeWalt DW160.

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It is OK for what it is, a mid range product aimed primarily at the “serious” DIY or light trade use markets. It has been 100% reliable for many years. However, I miss having no reverse and no variable speed on it on occasion, but as I mostly use it for drilling between joists this is only a small problem. If I did more kitchen-fitting, or similar, a product with more features would clearly be needed.

The Dewalt power tools I have used have generally impressed me and despite the lack of features on my own drill I would buy another right angle drill from them as the gearbox and motor has been solid. After all, I knew about the drills features when I bought it and it has never broken despite some serious use.

So what will be my next purchase?

Dewalt 18v Cordless Right Angle Drills and Spare Battery

18 volt is a minimum standard for any kind of serious trade work and Dewalt offer a number of options for cordless power tools in this range.

I like to work in a neat and professional manner and so I will not throw tools in a “tool bin” or similar to transport them. An included case for a particular tool is a nice bonus in my eyes. Similarly a spare battery and an included charger are a must have feature.

It is also possible to buy a Dewalt Cordless Drill as a tool only package. The second listing is tool only, no spare battery, case etc. and is listed for completeness.

DEWALT DW960K-2 3/8-Inch 18 Volt Ni-Cad Cordless Right Angle Drill

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The above listing comes with case, charger and two batteries so you start off with a spare battery that can be charging while you continue to work.

Bare Tool Only – DEWALT DW960B 3/8 Inch 18 Volt Cordless Right Angle Drill/Driver (Tool Only, No Battery Included)

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Product Description for DW960B Cordless Drill/Driver

The DW960B has a 3/8″ chuck (or 10mm for those metric folks)and is an 18 Volt Right Angle Cordless Drill/Driver (tool only, no battery). It comes with 2 selectable speed ranges of 0-500rpm and 0-1,500 rpm for greater user flexibility. Maximum rated power of 320 watts for heavy-duty jobs such as turning larger bits, screws or other fasteners, which provides for a wide array of possible applications. Multiple trigger grip positions allows comfort and increased convenience by assisting access in tight spaces while still granting full access to the trigger. Variable speed and reverse setting gives the user the ability to control rotation speed or remove fastenings. Tool features a durable, right angle transmission, complete with sealed ball bearings for a longer power tool life. Specifications: Voltage 18 volt. Max Power 320W. Chuck Size 3/8 inch. Two speed settings, manufacturer rated at 0-500 and 0-1,500rpm. Plastic, ratcheting chuck. Tool Weight 2.8 lbs (tool only, no battery).

Right Angle Cordless Drill Technical Details

Delivers 0-500RPM for 310 in./lbs. of torque in low speed mode.
Delivers 0-1,500RPM for 80 in./lbs. of torque in high speed mode.
Unique design and variable grip trigger provide for high levels of versatility in awkward spaces
3/8″ chuck is a widely used size and allows use of a large variety of bits

Spare Battery

As with all cordless power tools a spare battery is a must. Although some of the products listed here do come with a second battery, spares are always useful.

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Dewalt also sell spare batteries in two packs, three’s and five packs.

Handyman.