Choosing the right hammer drill can be difficult, especially if you’ve never bought one before. If you don’t know the advantages and disadvantages of different brands, you could end up buying a tool that doesn’t fit your project.
DeWalt offers some of the best drills on the market. They’re powerful, flexible, and durable. DeWalt has an extensive history in the power tool manufacturing industry and is one of the most well-known and respected tool manufacturers in the world.
Read on to learn more about the advantages of DeWalt hammer drills and how to choose the best hammer drill for you.
The 5 Top DeWalt Hammer Drills
Now that you have a better understanding of what makes DeWalt hammer drills stand out, here’s a look at the five of the brand’s best cordless hammer drills in 2022.
DeWalt DCD999B 20V Max Flexvolt Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD999B 20V Max Flexvolt Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Description and Specifications
The DeWalt DCD999B Cordless Hammer Drill delivers up to 42% more power when paired with DeWalt’s unique FLEXVOLT® batteries. Cordless and lightweight, this power tool will drive screws into the tightest of spaces.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Amp Hours / Amperage | 5.0 Ah |
| Battery/Charger | Battery and Charger Not Included |
| Chuck Type | Keyless |
| Tool Bag | Not Included |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Weight (pounds) | 3.54 lbs. |
| Extra Features | Flexvolt |
| Certifications | UL Listed |
| Warranty | 3-years (tool) |
Why the DeWalt DCD999B 20V Max Flexvolt Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Is Great
The DeWalt DCD999B is a formidable hammer drill that’s great for DIYers and professionals alike. Equipped with a heavy-duty metal chuck that has carbide inserts, this hammer drill offers superior bit-gripping strength. It also includes a three-mode LED with a 20-minute shutoff function that allows you to work extended hours in confined or dark spaces. The LED light is up to 20 times brighter than DeWalt’s DCD985 model.
The DCD999B’s chip pocket connects with the Tool Connect Site Manager mobile app, allowing for easy asset management on the go and at the job site. The chip pocket also accepts Tool Connect Chip DCE042.
Pros
- Up to 42% more power when used with FLEXVOLT® batteries
- Three-speed transmission
- Three-mode LED light
- Accepts Tool Connect Chip DCE042
- Connects with Tool Connect Site Manager mobile app
Cons
- Difficult to replace chuck
- Speed switch is sometimes difficult to adjust
DeWalt DCD999B 20V Max Flexvolt Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD999B 20V Max Flexvolt Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
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DeWalt DCD796B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD796B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Description and Specifications
Compact and lightweight, the DeWalt DCD796B Cordless Hammer Drill is perfect for working in tight corners for extended hours. It has an ergonomic comfort grip for control and balance.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Amp Hours / Amperage | 6.0 Ah |
| Battery/Charger | Battery and Charger Not Included |
| Chuck Type | Keyless |
| Tool Bag | Not Incuded |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Weight (pounds) | 3.2 lbs. |
| Certifications | CSA Listed |
| Warranty | 3-years (tool) |
Why the DeWalt DCD796B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Is Great
The DCD796B is ideal for hammering and drilling various materials. It features a DeWalt brushless motor that provides up to 57% more run time than brushed models do.
At 7.5 inches, this 3.6-pound hammer drill is great for applications that require a lot of movement. It also boasts two speed settings (0-550 and 0-2,000 RPM) that you can use on a range of different materials, from plywood to concrete.
Like many other DeWalt power tools, the DCD796B includes a bright LED spotlight with a 20-minute shutoff function, allowing you to work for long hours in confined or dark spaces.
Pros
- High-speed transmission with two speed modes
- Comfort grip for control and balance
- LED spotlight
- Lightweight and highly portable
Cons
- Chuck may periodically come loose
- Jaws can be hard to open
- Transmission may fail in hammer mode
DeWalt DCD796B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
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DeWalt DCD709B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD709B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Description and Specifications
The DeWalt DCD709B Li-ion Cordless Hammer Drill has a hammer functionality that enables you to tackle masonry drilling applications. It’s also incredibly compact. At only 6.9 inches front to back, this tool can fit in the tightest of spaces.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Amp Hours / Amperage | 1.5 Ah |
| Battery/Charger | Battery and Charger Not Included |
| Chuck Type | Keyless |
| Tool Bag | Not Included |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Torque | |
| Max RPM | 1650 RPM |
| Weight (pounds) | 2.5 lbs. |
| Extra Features | |
| Certifications | UL Listed |
| Warranty | 3-years (tool) |
Why the DeWalt DCD709B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Is Great
The DCD709B is a lightweight hammer drill made for light and heavy-duty jobs. With a variable speed trigger for precision and control, you can use this tool on delicate and tough surfaces alike. Its brushless motor makes for efficient runtime and performance.
Additionally, this hammer drill has a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck that provides superior gripping strength. There’s also an LED footlight for enhanced visibility.
Pros
- 340 Units Watts Out (UWO) of power
- Lightweight and small
- Variable speed trigger
- Brushless motor for efficient performance and runtime
- LED footlight
- Chuck has strong grip
Cons
- Chuck could be more secure
DeWalt DCD709B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD709B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
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DeWalt DCD706B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 3/8″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD706B 12V Max Cordless 3/8″ Hammer Drill Description and Specifications
The DeWalt DCD706B is a brushless cordless hammer drill that is performance-packed and compact. Great for a variety of drilling tasks, this tool is only 6.6 inches long. Batteries and chargers are sold separately.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Amp Hours / Amperage | 3.0 Ah |
| Battery/Charger | Battery and Charger Not Included |
| Chuck Type | Keyless |
| Tool Bag | Not Included |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Weight (pounds) | 2.3 lbs. |
| Certifications | UL Listed |
| Warranty |
Why the DeWalt DCD706B 12V Max Cordless 3/8″ Hammer Drill Is Great
With 25,000 BMP and 250 UWO, the DCD706B is designed for precision. Weighing only 2.3 pounds, this DeWalt tool is great for tasks that require a lot of movement, such as overhead applications.
This hammer drill is also incredibly flexible — it has 15 clutch settings and two speed transmission. It also has a 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck that accommodates a wide range of bits.
Pros
- Designed for precision
- 250 UWO
- 25,000 BPM
- LED on foot for illumination
- Great for mobile applications
Cons
- Chuck is wobbly at times
Additional Resources
DeWalt DCD797B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD797B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Description and Specifications
Based on the DeWalt DCD796 hammer drill, the DeWalt DCD797B is a cordless compact hammer drill with Bluetooth® connectivity. It links to a free mobile app and Inventory Manager web portal that lets you track, customize, and manage the tool on the go.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Amp Hours / Amperage | 4.0 Ah |
| Battery/Charger | Battery and Charger Not Included |
| Chuck Type | Keyless |
| Tool Bag | Not Included |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Weight (pounds) | 3 lbs. |
| Extra Features | Tool Connect |
| Certifications | UL Listed |
| Warranty | 3-years (tool) |
Why the DeWalt DCD797B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill Is Great
The DeWalt DCD797B is a high-tech hammer drill that comes with a free complete inventory management solution. Since this tool is enabled for Bluetooth®, you don’t need a Tool Connect
This tool’s app and Inventory Manager web portal let you send updates from the field to the office. You and your staff can receive updates about the location of materials, tools, and equipment so the right crew members can be held responsible in case anything is lost or damaged.
Like the DCD7979B, this tool is incredibly compact and lightweight. At only 3.6 pounds and 7.5 inches front to back, this hammer drill fits into tight areas. It also provides high-speed transmission with two speed settings (0-550 and 0-2,000 RPM), and it has an ergonomic comfort grip handle for optimized tool control and balance.
Pros
- Powerful Bluetooth inventory system that lets you track your equipment
- Two speed settings
- Ergonomic comfort grip handle
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Bluetooth system doesn’t always work
DeWalt DCD797B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
DeWalt DCD797B 20V Max Li-ion Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
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How To Choose the Best DeWalt Hammer Drill for You
The best cordless drill for your daily jobs or DIY projects usually has all of the features you need to complete the tasks involved. Here are some of the features you should consider ahead of buying a hammer drill.
Speed
The overall speed of your hammer drill will determine what materials you can cut through and how efficiently you can cut through them. The rate of most hammer drills is measured in rotations per minute. The higher the RPM, the thicker the materials the drill can cut.
You should also look at how many speeds your hammer drill offers. Many leading-edge hammer drills offer two speed modes, allowing you to adjust the overall power depending on the project. Some hammer drills — like the DeWalt DCD999B model — even offer three speed modes.
Mobility
If you work in an area with limited electrical outlets or work on the go, you might want to consider choosing a cordless drill. Keep in mind, though, that these power tools need to be recharged periodically. Otherwise, you may need to bring spare batteries to work.
If you work in an area with plenty of electric outlets and you need a powerful hammer drill, consider getting a corded hammer drill. Because they’re plugged in at all times, they deliver more power, making them a popular choice for professionals. You can also buy extension cords to increase mobility.
Torque
Measured in inch-pounds, torque is the force that hammer drills produce to turn and thrust into an object. The higher the torque, the less effort is required to drive screws. So if you’re a professional or a DIYer who works with tough materials like concrete and metal, consider getting a hammer drill with a high torque rating.
You should also check to see if your chosen DeWalt drill gives you the ability to adjust the amount of torque produced. Most leading-edge hammer drills offer this, allowing you to work with a wide range of materials.
Brushed or Brushless Motor
Brushed hammer drills have motors that use brushes to generate electricity. Since these brushes are in constant contact with other motor components, they can generate a lot of friction, resulting in less power and shorter battery life.
By contrast, brushless hammer drills have a complex electronic system that relies on magnets to create power. They generate less friction and more power and have longer battery life. While they require less maintenance because there aren’t any brushes to replace, brushless hammer drills tend to be more expensive than the brushed types.
Weight and Size
If you know that you’re going to be constantly moving your drill, you should buy a lightweight, compact hammer drill. If it’s cordless, it shouldn’t have a heavy battery. Many cordless hammer drills can be tiring to use due to the weight of the battery.
Budget
If you want a powerful, lightweight, and durable tool that can drill through almost any material, you’re going to have to pay a little more for those features. If you’re looking to save money and typically work on light DIY projects, you should be all right buying a less expensive hammer drill.
What Are the Advantages of DeWalt Hammer Drills?
DeWalt hammer drills offer many advantages. Here’s a look at what those advantages are.
Corded and Cordless Models
DeWalt offers both corded and cordless hammer drills. Its cordless models are ideal if you need to work in tight spaces or work on the go. Although DeWalt’s tools tend to be on the heavier side, all of their cordless hammer drills are incredibly lightweight and compact, balancing portability with durability and strength.
If you want to work for hours on end without having to change batteries, though, you might want to consider buying a corded hammer drill instead. Because they rely on a power source, corded hammer drills are generally less mobile. But they do deliver more power output. They typically operate at higher rotational speeds than their cordless counterparts, making corded drills better for non-drilling applications such as metal buffing wheels and paint stripping.
20V MAX System
DeWalt offers hammer drills within a 20V MAX system. These drills are made for longevity and power — the 20V MAX produces 29% more power than other systems. Consider getting a DeWalt 20V drill if you need to work on complex projects that require hours of work, like:
- Building a shed
- Home remodeling
- Assembling furniture
FLEXVOLT® Battery System
DeWalt also offers FLEXVOLT® batteries, which have an extended runtime. If these batteries have the same voltage, they’re interchangeable, meaning you can use a single FLEXVOLT® for a wide range of tools.
If you buy a 20V FLEXVOLT® battery for your 20V hammer drill, for example, you can also use this battery on other DeWalt 20V tools. That saves you hundreds of dollars on replacement batteries.
How Do DeWalt Hammer Drills Differ From Other Hammer Drills?
DeWalt hammer drills are powerful tools you can depend on. Here’s what makes this brand’s line of hammer drills stand out from the rest.
Professional Use
DeWalt is widely known as a go-to brand for professionals working in various trades, from plumbing and carpentry to home installations and utility services. Sturdy and reliable, DeWalt hammer drills can last many years without breaking.
Unlike hammer drills produced by other brands, DeWalt hammer drills can handle much more torque for longer periods. That means you can use DeWalt hammer drills to drill through the toughest of materials, including metal, concrete, and double-stacked headers.
More Expensive
While DeWalt’s hammer drills tend to be a bit pricey compared to other brands, it does have some affordable options. So if you’re looking for a budget buy, you might find a DeWalt hammer drill that works for you.
Even though most DeWalt tools tend to be expensive, investing in them may actually save you money in the long run, particularly if you’re a professional or a DIYer who’s constantly involved in heavy-duty projects. Unlike hammer drills from more budget-friendly brands, which may only last for a year at most, DeWalt hand drills can last up to five years.
Superior Customer Support
Compared to other brands, DeWalt has impressive customer service. Regarding its hammer drills, DeWalt offers:
- A no-break guarantee. DeWalt will replace your drill bit for free if it fails for any reason as long as the anchor wear mark is still visible on the hammer drill.
- A three-year limited warranty. DeWalt will repair any defects due to faulty workmanship or materials for free up to three years after the buy date.
- A one-year free service contract. DeWalt will maintain your hammer drill and replace worn parts caused by normal use at any time during the first year of purchase.
- A 90-day money-back guarantee. You can return the hammer drill for a full refund within 90 days from the buy date — no questions asked.
DeWalt Hammer Drill Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Impact drivers are distinct from standard drills. Not only are they more lightweight and compact, but they also have more torque than standard drills do. Instead of chucks, they have quick-change clamps that hold the driver and drill bits with a hexagonal shank.
Drivers are typically much better than drills at directing force downwards. They’re also less tiring to use over long work hours.
Check out our tips to learn more about how you can use impact drill drivers and drills.
Rotary hammer drills are typically more powerful than hammer drills. They resemble jackhammers more than standard power drills since you can’t turn the hammering action off. Rotary hammers are the go-to tool for heavy-duty jobs that involve concrete because they’re more powerful.
By contrast, hammer drills are less heavy-duty, delivering their hammering action through unique clutch systems that contain two rigid metal gears. Unlike rotary drills, you can turn off the hammering action of a hammer drill. Just swap a bit and turn the switch to go from drilling to boring. Hammer drills are typically used on metal and wood.
The main difference between these two tools is the direction from which they exert additional force on their torque or twisting action. Hammer drills exert more force directly into the bit as they hit the material you’re drilling, while impact drivers increase the force being delivered perpendicular to the bit.
The two tools also work very differently. Hammer drills provide a sustained torque that constantly spins the bit at regular speeds. But once you switch to hammer mode, the tool’s mechanism will change. Specifically, in hammer mode, the tool will give you rotational power as well as a powerful force that strikes in and out of the chuck.
Unlike a hammer drill, the impact driver has less sustained torque. But once it reaches full speed, the driver will move away from the anvil due to the movement of the coil. When this happens, the driver will freely rotate and gather enough force to deliver a powerful blow to the anvil. The increased perpendicular pressure will generate an amount of torque that goes above and beyond what the hammer drill generates.
