I’ve always been skeptical of battery-operated tools that claim to be direct replacements for corded tools, but when my corded right-angle drill was stolen and I needed a replacement, I decided to give cordless a try. I settled on DeWalt’s DCD460T2 60v max right-angle kit. This drill is part of DeWalt’s new dualvoltage Flexvolt platform, which means the 60v packs are compatible with DeWalt’s 20v power tools; the pack identifies what tool it’s in and switches the voltage automatically.
The drill has a heavy-duty 1⁄2-in. keyed chuck, a variable-speed trigger, and a two-speed transmission (0-300/0-1250). One of my favorite features is the electronic clutch , which prevents the drill from rotating when the bit binds. It’s a real arm saver when I’m using big hole saws in tight spaces and is a huge leg up on my former corded right-angle drill. It’s completely necessary, too, given the immense torque of this drill.
My first project with the drill was on a turn-of-the-century farmhouse with white oak framing. The tool enthusiastically drilled through the ancient timber with everything from a 7⁄8-in. auger bit to a 45⁄8-in. hole saw and had very few binds along the way. Battery life is also impressive, with one 6 amp/hr pack lasting an entire workday of rough-in plumbing.
This is not just a direct replacement for my corded right-angle drill—it’s superior to it. It performs flawlessly, and not dragging around a cord has increased my productivity. It’s a few ounces heavier than the corded version of this drill, but the convenience of cordless far outweighs the difference.
Andrew Grace, a remodeler in Ligonier, Pa.
Photos: courtesy of DeWalt
From Fine Homebuilding #280
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View Comments
amazing machine
fantastic
Why is that after more than 20 years of cordless tools people still fail to appreciate that when a battery pack is the power source it behooves one to find the most efficient drill bits and hole cutters to use with them. This includes avoiding old-fashioned auger bit designs as is shown with the angle drill and not using bi-metal hole saw for anything save soft pine or sheetrock. I new Lenox bi-metal hole saw takes 40 seconds to cut through 3/4" plywood sheet but a Blue Boar tungsten carbide tooth hole cutter can make the same hole in 3 seconds and use a lot less of the battery charge.
fascinating
wonderful