DEWALT 20V MAX Right Angle Drill Review Compact Power and Precision for Tight Spaces

Description

Highlights of the Compact Right Angle Drill Design

Using the DEWALT DCD740B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Right Angle Drill (Tool Only) quickly convinced me that its compact size is one of the standout features. The drill’s front-to-back length of just 4 inches makes it incredibly handy for those tight, awkward spaces where a standard drill simply won’t fit. I found myself reaching behind kitchen cabinets and working inside cramped joist bays with ease. The multi-grip trigger also impressed me; it’s ergonomically designed to allow comfortable control no matter how I held the tool. Whether I gripped it like a pistol or maneuvered it in a more unconventional way, the trigger responded smoothly without any strain. This thoughtful design really shines for professionals or DIYers frequently working in confined areas.

Versatile Performance With Dual Speed Ranges

This right angle drill offers dual speed ranges of 0-650 and 0-2000 RPM, which turned out to be surprisingly useful in real-world applications. For delicate tasks, I used the lower setting to avoid damaging surfaces or stripping screws, while the higher speed came in handy for faster drilling through wood and metal. The variable speed feature gave me fine control over the tool’s power, making it adaptable to a variety of projects. I appreciated how the reverse rotation function was easy to activate, allowing effortless screw removal without fumbling. Despite the compact size, the drill felt powerful enough for most household and workshop tasks without overheating or bogging down.

Pluses in Convenience and Practicality

• Compact design fits into spaces other drills can’t reach
• Multi-grip trigger enhances user comfort and control
• Dual-speed ranges offer flexibility for different materials
• 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck allows deep insertion of bits

Using this drill, my coworkers remarked on how efficiently it handled installation work in tight corners. The included belt hook adds to the convenience, letting me keep the drill close at hand without awkwardly balancing it on ladders or scaffolding. The 2-inch Phillips bit that comes with the set worked well for a range of screws, and the 3/8-inch chuck with a deep hex pocket securely held bits even during intense use.

Areas for Improvement

• Battery not included, so initial investment is higher
• Chuck size limited to 3/8 inch, restricting larger bits
• Weight of 3.4 pounds can feel a bit heavy for prolonged use
• Lacks built-in LED light for working in dark spaces

The absence of a battery in the kit caught me off guard at first. Having to buy a compatible battery separately adds to the upfront cost and delays getting started. While the 3/8-inch chuck is fine for most tasks, it might limit users needing to drill larger holes or use bigger bits. I did notice some arm fatigue after extended periods of use, likely related to the drill’s weight of over 3 pounds. Adding a built-in LED light would have been a nice touch for working in dim areas, especially since this drill is designed for tight spaces.

Value Proposition in Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other right angle drills like the Milwaukee M12 and Makita’s compact models, this tool holds its own in several ways. Its dual speed settings and multi-grip trigger make it more versatile and comfortable than some basic competitors. DEWALT’s compatibility with all 20V MAX batteries is a huge plus if you already own other tools in their line, offering great battery interchangeability and reducing clutter. However, some rivals offer lighter-weight designs or integrated lighting, which this model lacks. The chuck size is pretty standard, but a few alternatives provide 1/2-inch chucks for more heavy-duty drilling. Overall, this drill’s balance of power, size, and ergonomics makes it a strong contender for tight-space drilling, especially for users invested in the DEWALT ecosystem.

Comprehensive Feature Set and Usability

The drill’s simplicity is deceptive because it packs several thoughtful features into a small package. The variable speed trigger lets me modulate torque and speed smoothly, which is crucial when switching between delicate screw driving and heavy drilling. The reverse rotation is essential for removing stuck screws, and it works flawlessly without any lag. The 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck with a deep hex pocket is designed to fully seat 2-inch hex bits, which means fewer slips or wobbling during use. Although the drill is primarily plastic, it feels sturdy and well-built. The compact dimensions (4.5″L x 13″W x 3.6″H) don’t sacrifice grip or control, which surprised me. Plus, the included belt hook and Phillips bit make it ready to use right away—just bring your battery.

Cost-Effectiveness for Professionals and DIYers

Assessing the price to quality ratio, this drill offers strong value for those who need a reliable right angle drill but don’t want to splurge on premium heavy-duty models. If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, you’re saving money by purchasing the tool-only option. Its compact size and multi-speed capabilities mean it can replace multiple drills in your collection, reducing clutter and cost. For heavy contractors, the weight and lack of lighting might be a minor inconvenience, but for occasional or moderate use, this drill does the job efficiently and safely. It’s a smart investment if you prioritize ergonomics and versatility in tight spaces without breaking the bank.

Drawbacks That Might Affect Usage

• The battery is sold separately, increasing the overall purchase cost
• Not ideal for heavy-duty or industrial drilling due to chuck size and power
• Slightly heavier than some competing models, which may cause fatigue
• No built-in LED light for working in poorly lit areas

This drill isn’t the best fit if you need a powerhouse for constant industrial use or larger drilling tasks. The 3/8-inch chuck and maximum 2000 RPM speed are perfect for household and workshop projects but might struggle with tougher materials or bigger bits. I also noticed the absence of an LED light makes it harder to work in dark corners or at night without extra lighting. The weight is manageable but noticeable after longer jobs, which could be fatiguing for some users. Also, the fact that batteries don’t come with the tool means you’ll need to factor in that additional expense and downtime.

Testing this compact right angle drill thoroughly made it clear that its design and functionality are tailored for tight spaces and versatile use. The dual speed ranges, multi-grip trigger, and ratcheting chuck provide a lot of control and flexibility. Despite some minor drawbacks like the lack of included battery and LED lighting, it’s a solid tool that stands out in its category. Comparing it to other options reveals that it hits a sweet spot for users who value compactness and ergonomic design while maintaining decent power for everyday tasks. Whether I was tightening screws behind furniture or drilling pilot holes in confined framing, this drill proved to be a handy addition to my toolkit.

Additional information