DEWALT Rotary Hammer DCH273B Review Powerful Cordless 20V Max Hammer Drill Insights

Description

Highlights of the DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill

Using the DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B) feels like wielding a power-packed tool designed for serious jobs. The brushless motor combined with a German-engineered mechanism delivers an impressive 2.1 Joules of impact energy, making it a beast for drilling through concrete and masonry. The 3 application modes—Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip—are controlled via a rotating dial, which I found intuitive and easy to switch between depending on the task. This feature really sets it apart for versatility, especially when toggling between light drilling and heavy-duty hammering.

The lightweight design (6.4 pounds) made it surprisingly manageable during extended use, especially when working overhead or in tight spaces. A 360° adjustable side handle and depth rod are included, which added stability and control during use. I noticed a significant difference with the SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL system; it noticeably reduced the vibration I felt on the handles, making longer projects less tiring. This cordless hammer drill is part of DEWALT’s PERFORM and PROTECT product line and even achieves OSHA Table 1 compliance when paired with the On Board Extractor (DWH303DH), which is a big plus for jobsite safety.

Drawbacks of This Rotary Hammer

Despite its many strengths, the rotary hammer drill is not without flaws. The battery is not included, which means an extra purchase if you don’t already own compatible 20V MAX batteries. I found this a bit inconvenient since the tool’s power and runtime heavily depend on the battery quality. Also, the maximum torque rating of 1.5 foot-pounds felt somewhat limited for heavier-duty demolition or prolonged hammering tasks compared to some corded competitors.

Another downside is the maximum chuck size of only 20 millimeters (about 3/4 inch), which restricts the size of drill bits you can use. This limitation may be a dealbreaker for anyone needing larger diameter holes in concrete or metal. Furthermore, while the cordless design gives excellent portability, it also means that runtime depends entirely on battery life, which could interrupt workflow during longer or more demanding jobs.

Versatility and Application Modes

What intrigued me most was the three application modes built into this tool. The Drill mode is straightforward and perfect for wood or metal. Switching to Hammer Drill mode engages the impact mechanism for drilling into masonry. The Chip mode, which uses hammering without rotation, is ideal for chiseling or light demolition. Changing modes with the rotating dial was simple and didn’t require fiddling with additional attachments, which saved time.

This adaptability makes it a solid choice for a variety of construction tasks such as rod hanging, seismic and safety attachments, cable tray mounting, clamp mounting, and rail mounting. I even recommended it to a coworker who needed a reliable hammer drill for strut mounting, and he was equally impressed by the performance.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The tool’s blend material construction feels durable without being bulky. The brushed finish adds a professional look and helps with grip, even when working with sweaty hands. The dimensions (13″L x 4.2″W x 8.6″H) make it compact enough to maneuver in confined areas, while the 6.4-pound weight strikes a good balance between heft for control and lightness for comfort.

Ergonomically, the 360° side handle is a standout feature. It allows for multiple grip positions, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue. The depth rod helped me maintain consistent hole depths, which is critical for mounting tasks. However, the absence of a built-in LED light on the tool meant working in dimly lit areas required an external light source, which was a slight inconvenience.

Value Proposition

Considering the power output, vibration control, and cordless convenience, this rotary hammer drill offers solid value for money. It doesn’t come bundled with a battery or charger, so initial costs can add up if you’re starting from scratch. However, if you already own DEWALT’s 20V MAX battery system, this tool slots in perfectly and boosts your arsenal without redundancy.

The 3-year limited warranty is reassuring, especially given the intense tasks this tool is designed for. Compared to other cordless rotary hammers in this price range, it holds its own in terms of durability and performance. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but the quality and features justify the investment for professionals and serious DIYers who value portability without sacrificing impact power.

Product Comparisons

I’ve tried a few other cordless rotary hammers from brands like Makita and Bosch, and here’s how this model stacks up. The Makita XRH01Z offers slightly higher impact energy but feels heavier and less balanced in hand. Bosch’s GBH18V-26 delivers excellent power and vibration control but is bulkier and more expensive. The DEWALT model excels in weight balance, vibration reduction, and ease of mode switching.

While the competitors often include batteries or chargers, their tools tend to be heavier or lack the SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL system, which made a real difference during my work. This DEWALT rotary hammer drill’s compactness and vibration dampening make it more comfortable for prolonged use, though it falls short in maximum torque and chuck size compared to some corded rivals.

Positive Features

• Brushless motor ensures efficient power use and longer runtime.
• SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL significantly reduces hand fatigue.
• Three distinct modes (Drill, Hammer Drill, Chip) expand versatility.
• Lightweight and compact design enhances maneuverability.
• 360° adjustable side handle and depth rod provide excellent stability and precision.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

• Battery not included, adding to overall cost.
• Limited maximum torque (1.5 foot-pounds) may restrict heavy-duty tasks.
• Chuck size capped at 20 millimeters, limiting bit size options.
• No integrated LED light, which could help in low-light environments.
• Runtime depends entirely on battery capacity, potentially interrupting longer jobs.

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill provides a powerful, cordless solution for many drilling and chiseling applications. Its thoughtful design and innovative vibration control system make it a pleasure to use compared to heavier, more cumbersome tools. However, the lack of included batteries and some performance limits mean it’s best suited for users who prioritize portability and moderate-duty hammering over maximum raw power.

Additional information