Here’s a quick look at the specs, features, pros, and cons of the Hitachi DV18DBL hammer drill/driver. This information was excerpted from a tool test in the Spring 2015 issue of Tools of the Trade. The main story contains an overview plus runtime and power test data for all tools tested.
Hitachi DV18DBL
Battery: 18 volts; 3.0 Ah
Battery gauge: 2 bars; on tool
Weight (pounds): 4.67; with handle 5.17
Rpm: 0-200, 0-250, 0-300, 0-400 (low gear); 0-900, 0-1,100, 0-1,400, 0-1,800(high gear)
Hammer Bpm: 0-6,000; 0-27,000
Other Features: Brushless motor; multiple rpm stops in each gear; manually switched LED headlight; 9 3/8-inch side handle; belt hook
Price: Kit $281; in KC18DJL combo kit $436
Includes: Tool as tested in kit comes with 2 batteries; charger; plastic case
Country of origin: Tool and battery, China
Notes: Model DS18DSDL with a standard motor is rated with 24% greater torque.
Performance: Rated fair under heavy duty uses; better suited for moderate service. Performed in the bottom three overall. (See comparison tables in Main Story)
Comments: Medium-duty brushless motor tool with some electronic controls, but at the weaker end.
Pro: Lightest tool in the test. Unique electronic speed control can add control for full-throttle drilling and driving. Belt hook that mounts on either side of tool. LED headlight on base that must be switched on manually when needed provides nice control of the light. Free-spinning ring at the end of the chuck minimizes friction damage to adjacent surfaces.
Con: Have to routinely check that speed switch is on highest setting to get the most power out of the tool. 3.0 Ah battery limits runtime. Imprecise two-bar fuel gauge
