DeWalt DCH273B Review

The DeWalt DCH273B is a powerful and compact 20V cordless rotary hammer drill designed to handle demanding drilling and chipping tasks with ease. As part of DeWalt’s 20V MAX line, the DCH273B is built to deliver exceptional power while maintaining portability and ease of use. Whether you’re drilling into concrete, brick, or stone, or performing chiseling work, this tool provides the strength and versatility you need to get the job done. In this review, we will dive into its key features, performance, and overall value to help you determine if the DeWalt DCH273B is the right tool for your needs.

Introduction to the DeWalt DCH273B

The DeWalt DCH273B is a cordless rotary hammer drill that combines professional-grade power with user-friendly features. Powered by DeWalt’s 20V MAX lithium-ion battery system, the DCH273B provides the convenience of cordless operation without sacrificing performance. It’s designed to handle tough tasks such as drilling anchor holes, chipping, and light demolition work, making it suitable for both construction professionals and serious DIYers.

One of the standout features of the DCH273B is its compact and lightweight design, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces compared to larger, heavier rotary hammers. The brushless motor provides longer runtime and enhanced durability, while the three-mode operation gives you flexibility for a wide range of applications. Let’s explore the key features and performance of the DeWalt DCH273B to understand how it can benefit your toolkit.

Key Features of the DeWalt DCH273B

1. Brushless Motor Technology The DeWalt DCH273B is equipped with a brushless motor, which offers several benefits over traditional brushed motors. The brushless motor is more efficient, generates less heat, and requires less maintenance, leading to longer tool life. It also provides longer runtime, allowing you to work for extended periods without needing to recharge the battery. The brushless motor delivers consistent power, even when tackling tougher tasks like drilling into concrete or chiseling through masonry.

2. Impact Energy and Power The DCH273B delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy, making it a highly effective tool for drilling and chiseling in tough materials like concrete and stone. This level of impact energy is ideal for medium-duty applications, providing enough power for tasks like drilling anchor holes, surface preparation, and light demolition work. Whether you’re drilling holes for expansion bolts or breaking up concrete, the DCH273B provides the power needed to get the job done efficiently.

3. Three-Mode Operation The DCH273B features three modes for greater versatility:

   • Drill Mode: Perfect for general drilling tasks in wood, metal, and plastic.

   • Hammer Drill Mode: Provides extra force for drilling into tougher materials like concrete and masonry.

   • Chiseling Mode: Ideal for surface preparation or light demolition, allowing you to break up materials or remove old coatings.

   These modes allow you to easily switch between tasks, making the DCH273B a multi-functional tool for various applications on the job site.

4. Compact and Lightweight Design One of the major benefits of the DCH273B is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing just 6.1 pounds (with the battery), it is much lighter than many corded rotary hammers, making it easier to handle and maneuver. This compact size makes the DCH273B an excellent choice for working in tight spaces, overhead tasks, or extended use without causing hand fatigue. Its lightweight nature also makes it ideal for professionals who need to carry their tools from one job site to another.

5. 1-Inch SDS Plus Chuck The DeWalt DCH273B uses an SDS Plus chuck, which allows for quick and secure bit changes. The SDS Plus system makes it easy to swap between different bits for drilling or chiseling tasks without the need for additional tools. This system ensures that bits are securely held in place, even during high-impact applications, which helps maintain precision and control during use.

6. 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Battery System The DCH273B is powered by DeWalt’s 20V MAX lithium-ion battery system, known for its reliability and long-lasting performance. The 20V MAX batteries provide consistent power, ensuring that you can complete your tasks without worrying about battery life. The battery system is also compatible with other DeWalt 20V MAX tools, allowing for easy interchangeability and convenience. The DCH273B includes a battery fuel gauge that allows you to monitor battery levels and plan ahead for recharging when necessary.

7. LED Work Light The DeWalt DCH273B is equipped with an integrated LED work light, which provides added illumination in dark or dimly lit work environments. This feature is especially useful when working in confined spaces, under cabinets, or at night. The LED light automatically activates when you pull the trigger, ensuring that you have proper visibility while drilling or chiseling.

8. Durable Construction Like all DeWalt tools, the DCH273B is built for durability. Its rugged construction ensures that it can withstand the rough conditions of a job site, including drops, impacts, and exposure to dust and debris. The tool is designed to endure heavy-duty use and continue performing reliably over time, making it a great investment for professionals who need a tool that can stand up to demanding environments.

Performance and Efficiency

The DeWalt DCH273B delivers excellent performance across a wide range of tasks. The 2.1 Joules of impact energy provides ample power for medium-duty tasks like drilling into concrete and masonry, driving anchor bolts, and performing light demolition. The three-mode operation adds to its versatility, making it suitable for drilling, hammering, and chiseling, all with one tool.

The brushless motor ensures that the drill operates efficiently, using less energy and generating less heat. This leads to longer battery life and less wear and tear on the motor, ensuring that the tool will perform reliably over time. The lightweight and compact design makes the DCH273B easy to handle, even during extended use, while the ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue.

The SDS Plus chuck system makes bit changes quick and easy, allowing you to switch between tasks without wasting time. Whether you’re working on concrete, masonry, or light demolition, the DCH273B provides the power and precision needed to get the job done effectively and efficiently.

Battery Life and Charging

The DeWalt DCH273B uses DeWalt’s 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries, which offer long-lasting power and fast recharge times. These batteries provide consistent power output, ensuring that the drill maintains its performance throughout the job. The DCH273B comes with a battery fuel gauge, so you can easily monitor the battery level and avoid running out of power mid-task.

The 20V MAX battery system is compatible with other DeWalt 20V MAX tools, which is a great advantage for users who already own DeWalt products. The battery system is also designed for fast charging, so you can quickly get back to work when the battery runs low. With the DCH273B, you can expect to complete multiple tasks without needing to constantly stop and recharge, ensuring that your work flows seamlessly.

Pros of the DeWalt DCH273B

• Powerful performance: Delivers 2.1 Joules of impact energy, providing the power needed for drilling and chiseling into tough materials like concrete and masonry.

• Three-mode operation: Offers versatility for drilling, hammering, and chiseling tasks, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

• Compact and lightweight: Easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces, reducing user fatigue during extended work sessions.

• Brushless motor technology: Increases efficiency and runtime, reducing maintenance and extending the life of the tool.

• SDS Plus chuck: Enables quick and secure bit changes, improving productivity and reducing downtime.

• 20V MAX lithium-ion battery system: Provides long-lasting power and fast charging, ensuring that the tool is ready for use when you need it.

• LED work light: Illuminates work areas for better visibility, especially in dimly lit spaces.

Cons of the DeWalt DCH273B

• Higher price point: As a professional-grade tool, the DCH273B may be priced higher than other models, making it less suitable for budget-conscious buyers.

• Limited for extremely heavy-duty tasks: While the DCH273B is ideal for medium-duty applications, it may not provide enough power for large-scale demolition or heavy-duty masonry work.

• No corded option: The DCH273B is a cordless tool, which offers mobility but limits runtime compared to corded rotary hammers.

How to Get the Most Out of Your DeWalt DCH273B

To maximize the performance of your DeWalt DCH273B, follow these tips:

1. Use the right mode for the task: Switch between drilling, hammering, and chiseling modes depending on the material and task at hand to optimize performance.

2. Monitor battery levels: Use the battery fuel gauge to keep track of battery life, and ensure you have a charged spare battery available for longer tasks.

3. Maintain the tool: Clean the chuck and motor area regularly, and inspect the tool for wear to ensure optimal performance over time.

4. Use the proper drill bit: For tougher materials like concrete, use bits designed for masonry to ensure the best results and avoid unnecessary wear on the tool.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCH273B is a powerful, versatile, and reliable rotary hammer drill that delivers excellent performance for a wide range of applications. With its brushless motor, three-mode functionality, compact design, and 20V MAX battery system, the DCH273B is an excellent choice for both professionals and serious DIYers who need a high-performance tool for drilling, hammering, and chiseling. While it may not be ideal for extreme heavy-duty applications, it excels in medium-duty tasks and is well-suited for masonry, concrete, and light demolition work.

If you’re looking for a durable, high-performance rotary hammer drill that provides both power and portability, the DeWalt DCH273B is an excellent investment. Its combination of power, versatility, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit.