2012 DEWALT Media Event Highlights
Brushless Impact Driver Steals the Show
Earlier this week I traveled down to Orlando for a special Media Event at Disney World where DEWALT announced lots of new tools including the much anticipated Brushless Impact Drivers. Brushless motors are not new to the industry but they are starting to make a splash as DEWALT makes it’s announcement and it’s likely several other manufacturers are about to this year.
Why should you care about brushless motor technology? Well the science behind these new motors will ultimately lead to cordless tools that have longer run time and superior durability. While this event only announced one new tool with brushless motors it’s very likely we’ll see many more in the coming year or so as engineers develop additional products.
The key to brushless technology is the removal of the brushes. As you can see in the image above brushes in traditional electric motors cause friction which in turn causes heat. That heat is lost energy that isn’t being delivered to the tools power. Lost energy means shorter run times and the friction can lead to reduced life span.
New Brushless Impact Driver Features
Not only does this new offering involve the new brushless motor but it comes with several key features that are new to DEWALT. The features include the following:
- 3 Speed Control – (0-2850 RPM; 1,500 inch/pounds Max Torque) for self-tapping screw driving in metal, (0-1,900 RPM; 900 inch/pounds Max Torque) for controlled fastening applications such as door hinge installation. Woodworkers and electricians will be able to use the first setting (0-950 RPM; 500 inch/pounds Max Torque) for finish work such as faceplate installation. The electro-mechanical speed selector is easily seen at all times and can be actuated with little effort. (Selector indicated in lower right arrow in the adjacent photo)
- 1/4″ Push Button Chuck – If you look closely at the impact driver you’ll notice the chuck looks significantly different than even the still new 20V MAX platform. The chuck is completely enclosed inside the “nose” There’s a small button below the nose that you push to release the chuck. I really like this new feature and it makes the driver even smaller. (Pointed out by upper arrow on photo)
- 20 Second LED Delay – The LED’s on the front of the driver now use a 20 second delay. This is great when extra light is needed. In fact, the driver can be used as a back-up flashlight!
The new DEWALT 20V Brushless Impact Driver is a premium product. Suggested pricing for several options include:
- 1.5 Ah Kit – $279
- 3.0 Ah Kit – $349
- Bare Tool Only – $169
This is a great tool from what I could see at the show. Time will tell if this premium product will draw the premium pricing. Stay tuned as we’ll get a full review out once samples are made available. Check out this quick video for a great flyby!
Other Notable Cordless Additions
DEWALT also introduced quite a few other cordless tools at the event. Six new cordless tools were rolled out for the 20V and 12V platforms including:
20 Volt MAX* Compact Lithium Ion 3/8-inch Impact Wrench
The 20 Volt MAX* Compact Lithium Ion 3/8-inch Impact Wrench (DCF883L2), and bare model (DCF883B), features several innovative elements. These new elements provide remodelers, automotive mechanics, mechanical contractors, plumbers and maintenance professionals with optimal torque in a compact, lightweight design.
Suggested Pricing: $229 for kit with 2 batteries or $129 for the bare tool.
20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion 1/2-inch High Torque Impact Wrench
DEWALT launches the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion 1/2-inch High Torque Impact Wrench with Detent Pin (DCF889L2) and the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion 1/2-inch High Torque Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil (DCF889HL2). The DCF889L2 and DCF889HL2 are designed for remodelers, automotive users, mechanical contractors, plumbers, maintenance and repair professionals and remodelers.
Suggested Pricing: $329 with Kit and Battery or $169 for bare tool.
20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Metal Cutting Circular Saw
DEWALT announces the launch of the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Metal Cutting Circular Saw (DCS373L2). The motor delivers speed and power to make the most demanding cuts with ease; while the 5 1/2-inch 30T carbide tipped metal cutting blade quickly and cleanly cuts a variety of metallic construction materials.
Suggested Pricing: $359 for the kit with two batteries or $199 for the bare tool.
12 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Pivot Reciprocating Saw
DEWALT announces the launch of the 12 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Pivot Reciprocating Saw (DCS310S1). The new reciprocating saw’s three-position pivot handle offers contractors the ability to access tight or hard to reach areas with ease.
Suggested Pricing: $149 with Kit bag and one Battery. It will also be available in several combo kits.
20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Jigsaw Kit
DEWALT announces the launch of the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Jigsaw Kit (DCS331L1). The 3.0 Amp hour (Ah) battery offers extended runtime, while the keyless shoe bevel and anti-slip comfort grip enhance ergonomics and comfort. For enhanced productivity and performance, the new jigsaw features an easy to use lever-action keyless blade change.
Suggested Pricing: $279 with Kit and one battery or $149 for bare tool only.
20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion 4 1/2-inch Cut-Off Tool Kit
DEWALT launches the new 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion 4 1/2-inch Cut-Off Tool Kit (DCG412L2), part of the existing 20 Volt MAX* system. The DCG412L2 delivers high-power for cutting and grinding applications.
Ideal for a wide range of construction, maintenance, repair and automotive applications, the tool is designed for electricians, mechanical contractors, ironworkers and automotive mechanics.
Suggested Pricing: $299 with Kit and two batteries or $119 for bare tool.
Batteries and Chargers
In addition to the new cordless tools they have also introduced a new charger and batteries.
Combination Dual Port Fast Charger
DEWALT’s new Combination Dual Port Fast Charger (DCB103) is compatible with DEWALT batteries including the existing stem packs in 7.2, 9.6, 12, 14.4, 18 volts, and the 12 Volt MAX* and 20 Volt MAX* systems.
This is something I’m VERY excited to get my hands on in an effort to clean up the cordless charger maze that exists in my shop!
20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Fuel Gauge Battery Packs
DEWALT’s new 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion Fuel Gauge Battery Packs, offered as 1.5 Ah (DCB201) and 3.0 Ah (DCB200) have an indicator light to show charge capacity and are compatible with all DEWALT 20 Volt MAX* products.
About the author
Todd Fratzel
Todd Fratzel is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz, and the President of Front Steps Media, LLC, a web based media company focused on the Home Improvement and Construction Industry.He is also the Principal Engineer for United Construction Corp., located in Newport, NH. In his capacity at United he oversees the Residential and Commercial Building Division along with all Design-Build projects.He is also the editor of Home Construction & Improvement.
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Wow I want the 12v Max reciprocating saw so bad I’m remodeling a house and it would really be a great use all the new cordless dewalt tools are nice