Tool Box Buzz

DEWALT 12 Volt MAX Lithium Ion 1/4″ Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2)

The folks at DEWALT released their new line of 12 Volt MAX Lithium Ion tools late this summer including the 1/4″ Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2). I spent two days earlier this summer down in Baltimore visiting with the folks from DEWALT when they unveiled 12 Volt MAX. Needless to say I was extremely impressed with the development of the 12 Volt MAX platform. Having used the Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2) for several months now I can say that I’m even more impressed.

DCF610S2 Features

• Compact, lightweight design fits into tight areas
• 3 LED Lights provide visibility without shadows
• One-handed loading 1/4″ hex chuck accepts 1″ bit tips
• Belt hook included for portability
• Voltage – 12 Volt MAX
• No Load Speed – 0-1,050 rpm
• Drive – 1/4″
• Max Power – 160UWO
• Tool Length – 6-1/4″
• Tool Weight – 2.2lbs

Compact Traditional Battery Pack Design

Probably the most noticeable feature of the new DEWALT 12 Volt MAX Screwdriver is the battery pack design. Unlike other 12 volt cordless drills on the market DEWALT stuck with a more traditional looking battery pack mounted below the handle instead of inside it. This makes so much sense when considering that other 12 volt drivers cannot be stood up on a table like this new line. This is certainly one of my favorite features and one that other manufacturers should take serious note of.

If you look at the adjacent photo you’ll see how the new 12 Volt MAX sits upright just like the larger 18 volt drills. When working on finish projects like cabinetry and casework this is a huge advantage over tools that need to be laying on their side.

Improved LED Light Feature

Another new feature that DEWALT improved upon was the LED light that most cordless drills and drivers come with now. They have installed three LED’s mounted around the face of the drill which greatly improves illumination and a reduction in shadows.

This may seem like a simple idea but it truly improves on the amount of available work light. This also provides light above the bit which most existing lights only shine from below.

Balance & Comfort

For me the most impressive thing about the new 12 Volt MAX is the amazing balance and comfort. It’s really hard to explain unless you have the chance to pick up one of these new screwdrivers. Having that battery pack down below the handle makes this tool feel must more comfortable and less “tip heavy”.

In addition the grip is extremely comfortable. While visiting DEWALT this summer I was able to see all the many variations in grip designs that were used and how much time went into the design.

Power

Another feature that shocked me was the amount of power the 12 Volt MAX is able to produce. After using this screwdriver the last few months I’ve been turning to it more and more and leaving the heavy 18 volt behind more often. There are very few drops that the 12 Volt MAX can’t do because of it’s powerful motor and battery pack. I’ve used it for installing screws in cabinets, installing shelving, hardware, and even screwing together some wood frames. The 12 Volt MAX will definitely surprise you.

Overall Impression

Honestly there’s nothing I’d do to change the 12 Volt MAX Screwdriver. It’s very obvious that DEWALT spent a lot of time and money developing it and it’s at the top of our 12 volt driver list. If you don’t own 12 volt drills, driver and impact drivers then the 12 Volt MAX line is a sure bet.

Where To Buy

You can buy it at Amazon for $139.00 with FREE Shipping: DEWALT DCF610S2 12-Volt Max 1/4-Inch Screwdriver Kit

or

over at Tool King for $139.00 : DeWalt 12-Volt Max Tools

*Maximum initial battery pack voltage (measured without a workload) is 12 volts. Measured under a workload, nominal voltage is 10.8.

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