DEWALT DCD805B Hammer Drill Review Compact Power Tool Performance Tested

Description

Highlights of the Dewalt DCD805BR 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Driver

Testing the Dewalt DCD805BR 20V MAX XR Brushless Lithium-Ion 1/2 in. Cordless Hammer Drill Driver (Tool Only) (Renewed) gave me a solid impression of its powerful performance and compact design. The brushless motor definitely sets this hammer drill apart, offering up to 40% more UWO (Unit Watts Out) compared to some older Dewalt models like the DCD796B, especially when paired with the DCB205 or DCBP034 POWERSTACK battery. This translates into more torque and longer runtime during demanding drilling tasks. The compact 7-inch size, which is about half an inch shorter than its predecessors, really helped me access tight spots on various projects — something I found invaluable around my workshop and even on some home renovation jobs.

• Up to 40% more power output with compatible batteries
• Compact size for better maneuverability in tight areas
• Brushless motor for extended runtime and durability

Good Aspects of Design and Usability

This hammer drill’s ergonomics are noteworthy. The weight is just over 3 pounds, making it easy to handle without feeling unwieldy during extended use. The 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck held bits securely, preventing any unwanted slippage during heavy-duty drilling or hammering. With two-speed settings (0-650 and 0-2,000 RPM) and a variable speed trigger, I was able to control the drill precisely, whether I was working on delicate wood pieces or drilling into masonry. The adjustable 3-position 70 Lumens LED light was a thoughtful addition, especially when working in dim corners or under cabinets. The LED spotlight mode, which shuts off after 20 minutes, saved battery life while still illuminating tricky spots effectively.

This tool was a pleasure to use despite its somewhat basic belt hook, which felt a bit flimsy, but it did the job for quick tool storage on the jobsite.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

As much as I enjoyed most features, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. First, this product comes without a battery or charger, so you need to already own compatible Dewalt 20V MAX batteries or budget for those separately. That might surprise some buyers expecting a full kit. The 90-day limited warranty feels a bit short compared to other tools in this range, which occasionally offer longer coverage periods.

Another gripe was the noise level during hammer drilling—it’s louder than I expected, which means hearing protection is a must. Also, while the compact size helps in tight spaces, it sacrifices a bit of grip comfort for larger hands, which might be a consideration for some users.

• No battery or charger included with this tool-only model
• Short 90-day warranty period
• Louder noise during hammer drilling operations
• Slightly cramped grip for larger hands

Performance and Features in Real-World Use

I tried this hammer drill on wood, metal, and concrete surfaces to get a feel for its versatility. The brushless motor definitely contributed to smoother operation and less heat buildup, even during extended use. The maximum rotational speed of 2000 RPM gave plenty of power for drilling through tough materials. Hammer drilling in masonry was effective, and the two-speed setting helped me adjust for different surfaces without switching tools.

The variable speed trigger was responsive, allowing me to start slow and increase speed for precision or power as needed. I appreciated the tool’s balanced weight distribution, which minimized fatigue during repetitive tasks. The drill’s dimensions (7.32 x 3.74 x 9.25 inches) made it nimble enough without sacrificing power.

Areas for Improvement

The lack of battery and charger in the package left me scrambling a bit, especially since the tool depends heavily on a good battery for optimal performance. It would be helpful if the manufacturer included at least a basic battery to get users started. The belt hook, while convenient, felt cheap and prone to bending if mishandled. A sturdier clip or magnetic attachment might improve this feature.

Battery compatibility is limited to Dewalt’s proprietary 20V MAX line, which means users invested in other brands might face additional costs. Lastly, the hammer drill’s noise and vibration levels can become intrusive over longer work sessions, so investing in hearing protection and gloves is advisable.

Product Comparisons

Looking at competing brands like Makita and Milwaukee, this Dewalt hammer drill holds its own in power and compactness. Makita’s brushless hammer drills offer similar torque but often include batteries and chargers in standard kits, which adds convenience for new users. Milwaukee tends to push the envelope with more ergonomic grips and quieter operation, but their tools generally come at a higher price point.

The Dewalt stands out for its effective LED lighting system and excellent bit retention due to the metal ratcheting chuck. However, compared to some rivals, it could improve on battery inclusion and warranty length. For users already invested in the Dewalt ecosystem, this tool integrates seamlessly, but newcomers might find the initial investment steeper.

Financial Value

This hammer drill offers solid value for money if you already own Dewalt 20V MAX batteries or plan to invest in the brand’s ecosystem. Its power efficiency, compact size, and brushless motor justify the cost, especially for professionals or serious DIYers needing a reliable, versatile hammer drill. Conversely, those seeking an all-in-one starter kit might find better bang for the buck elsewhere.

Considering the tool-only nature of this product, the price-performance ratio favors users who prioritize power and compactness and are willing to source batteries separately. Given its durability and features like the 3-mode LED light and two-speed settings, I’d say it’s worth every penny for users matching these criteria.

Downsides Worth Mentioning

• The tool-only package means extra costs for batteries and chargers
• Short warranty coverage compared to competitors
• Higher noise and vibration levels during hammer drilling
• Belt hook quality could be improved for durability

Why I Would Recommend It

In my experience, this hammer drill excels in tight spaces where power and precision are needed without lugging around a bulky machine. The brushless motor, combined with solid speed control and bright LED illumination, made tricky jobs easier and less stressful. My family and coworkers who tried it out also appreciated its lightweight feel and reliability.

Despite a few shortcomings like the lack of included batteries and a noisy hammer function, the overall package delivers professional-grade performance in a compact frame. It’s a tool that fits well in any toolbox, especially for those already familiar with Dewalt’s battery lineup.

Additional information