DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Review

As an Amazon Associate, this website earns from qualifying purchases.


The DEWALT DCH172B SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill delivers impressive performance with its 1100 RPM brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism. You'll appreciate its lightweight 4.61-pound design and SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system, which substantially reduces fatigue during extended use. The drill handles up to 26mm in wood and 13mm in metal, while its 300-watt output guarantees precise control. For professional contractors seeking maximum efficiency, you'll find the detailed specs and capabilities worth your attention.

Key Takeaways

  • The DCH172B delivers powerful performance with 1100 RPM through its brushless motor while maintaining a lightweight design at 4.61 pounds.
  • SHOCKS Active Vibration Control System significantly reduces operator fatigue during extended drilling sessions.
  • Variable speed control and mode selector switch allow precise drilling in wood up to 26mm and metal up to 13mm.
  • Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, though not included, providing flexibility for professional job site applications.
  • Achieves OSHA Table 1 compliance when paired with DWH200D shroud, ensuring proper dust management and worker safety.

DEWALT's 1100 RPM Beast

The DEWALT DCH172B stands as a powerhouse in the rotary hammer drill category, delivering an impressive 1100 RPM through its brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism.

You'll appreciate the ergonomic design that complements this raw power, with the SHOCKS Active Vibration Control System substantially reducing operator fatigue during extended use.

At just 4.61 pounds, you're getting an exceptional power-to-weight ratio that enhances your user experience, especially during overhead applications.

The 300-watt output and variable speed control give you precise drilling performance across multiple materials, from concrete to metal, making this cordless beast suitable for both light-duty and demanding professional applications.

DEWALT's Maximum Performance Drill

Building on its impressive RPM capabilities, DEWALT's DCH172B maximizes performance through its versatile mode selector switch and advanced drilling capacities.

You'll appreciate its ergonomic design that delivers exceptional results across multiple materials – drilling up to 26mm in wood and 13mm in metal.

The user experience is enhanced by the SHOCKS Active Vibration Control System, reducing fatigue during extended use.

At just 4.61 pounds, this compact powerhouse combines German-engineered precision with a brushless motor for maximum efficiency.

The tool's 300-watt output and lithium-ion compatibility guarantee you're equipped for demanding professional applications.

Detailed Features

Packed with innovative engineering, DEWALT's DCH172B offers an extensive suite of features that enhance its functionality.

You'll find the SHOCKS Active Vibration Control System substantially reduces operator fatigue during extended use, while the ergonomic design guarantees comfortable handling across multiple applications.

The tool's versatility shines through its mode selector switch, allowing you to smoothly shift between drill and hammer drill operations. At just 4.61 pounds, you'll appreciate its compact frame when working in tight spaces.

The brushless motor, paired with German-engineered mechanisms, delivers consistent power while maximizing runtime and efficiency in both concrete and metal applications.

Battery Life Discussion

How well does the DCH172B perform on a single charge? You'll find the battery efficiency impressive thanks to its brushless motor technology, which maximizes runtime during operation.

While batteries aren't included, the tool accepts DEWALT's 20V MAX batteries with a 2.0Ah capacity.

The charge duration varies based on your drilling intensity and mode selection. During hammer drilling operations, you can expect moderate battery consumption due to the 300-watt power output.

For peak performance, you'll want to keep a spare battery charged, especially during extended job site work. The tool's power management system helps preserve battery life during less demanding tasks.

Safety-First SDS Tool Design

When considering job site safety, DEWALT's DCH172B incorporates several critical protective features into its SDS Plus design. You'll benefit from the SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system that substantially reduces hand and arm fatigue during extended use.

The ergonomic design includes a 360-degree side handle that lets you maintain ideal control and stability while drilling.

The tool's compact frame and lightweight build at 4.61 pounds minimize operator strain, while the mode selector switch prevents accidental mode changes during operation.

When paired with the DWH200D shroud, you'll achieve OSHA Table 1 compliance for dust management and respiratory protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can This Drill Be Used Underwater or in Wet Conditions?

Despite its 300-watt power rating, you shouldn't use this drill underwater or in wet conditions. It lacks water resistance certification and isn't designed for marine applications, which could damage the electrical components and battery system.

What Is the Recommended Maintenance Schedule for Optimal Performance?

You'll need to clean your tool after each use, perform monthly lubrication checks on the SDS chuck, and inspect the brushless motor system quarterly. Remove dust and debris regularly to maintain peak performance.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge the Battery?

Here's a surprise – while batteries aren't included, when you do get DEWALT's compatible 20V MAX batteries, they'll typically take 60-90 minutes to fully charge, depending on your battery's capacity and charger model.

Is This Model Compatible With Older DEWALT 18V Batteries?

No, you can't use 18V batteries with this tool. The 20V MAX system isn't compatible with older 18V batteries due to different voltage requirements and connection designs. There's no voltage conversion option available.

What's the Maximum Temperature This Tool Can Operate in Safely?

Since thermal limits and temperature tolerance aren't specified in the product documentation, you'll want to follow general lithium-ion battery guidelines: operate between 20°F to 120°F (-6°C to 49°C) for maximum safety and performance.