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DeWALT XRP Cordless Hammerdrills Review

By Todd Fratzel on Power Tools, Product Reviews

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DeWALT 18V Cordless XRP Hammerdrills

Recently the folks at DeWALT sent us two of their Cordless XRP Hammerdrills to evaluate. We tested the DCD970KL 1/2″ (13mm) 18V Cordless XRP™ Li-Ion Hammerdrill/Drill/Driver Kit and the DCD950KX 1/2″ (13mm) 18V Cordless XRP™ Hammerdrill/Drill/Driver Kit.

The XRP series cordless tools from DeWALT are premium cordless drills built for performance, durability and ergonomics. The DeWALT XRP hammerdrills are built with features that make them stand above the competition including:

• Patented 3-speed all-metal transmission matches the tool to task for fastest application speed and improved run time
• Heavy-duty 1/2″ self-tightening chuck tightens throughout operation providing superior bit gripping strength
• LED worklight provides increased visibility in confined spaces
• High power, high efficiency motor delivers 450 unit watts out of max power for superior performance in all drilling and fastening applications
• Best in class length for improved balance and better control
• 3 Speed Settings with Max rpm 0-500/0-1,250/0-2,000 and Max BPM 0-8,500/0-21,250/0-34,000

The only big difference between these two drills are the battery packs. The DCD970KL is powered by an 18-volt long lasting and extra long run time XRP Nano Phosphate Lithium-Ion battery capable of up to 2,000 recharges! The DCD950KX is powered by an 18-volt a standard XRP extended run-time battery. Besides even longer lasting the DCD970KL weighs in about a full pound lighter than the DCD950KX.

The really cool feature about their new Lithium-Ion battery is you can use it on all your old 18V tools. The new batteries are backward and forward compatible which is a huge bonus especially when you own a bunch of DeWALT cordless tools.

Built To Last

One of the features that impresses us most is the quality of construction. These XRP drills are built with all-metal transmissions unlike many of the competitors.  The XRP drills are a bit heavier than similar drills from other manufacturers but that’s ok with us. The extra weight comes from the all-metal parts which gives us confidence in the drills ability to take a serious punishment on the job site.

Self-Tightening Chuck

The self-tightening chuck is a great feature. It’s nice to know that a drill with tons of power and torque can easily be loaded with a drill bit by hand without fear of the bit loosening. We tested several large hole saws, masonry bits and auger bits with non of them loosening after quickly installing them.

Not Your Fathers Cordless Drills

Cordless drills have come so far in the last few years. DeWALT has created some of the best cordless drills that we’ve tested. Not only are their cordless drills powerful, long lasting and comfortable to use but they have finally matched up to their corded cousins in all those categories.

The XRP Cordless Drills were built for professional contractors that require the best tools for the job. When I hand one of these drills to a member of my crew I know then have the best tool on hand. The bottom line is if you’re in the market for a cordless hammerdrill then you really need to consider the XRP line of drills. As far as we’re concerned the XRP hammerdrills are best in class.

Frankly we can’t think of one thing to improve on the XRP cordless hammerdrills. These tools are built to last and offer some of the best in class power battery life.

Where To Buy

DeWALT tools are available at any big box store, most local building supply stores and numerous online stores. The DCD970KL retails online for about $329 while the DCD950KX retails for about $282.