DeWalt redesigned their 9.6V DC750KA cordless drill and the new model offers better balance and an improved clutch system for those do-it-yourself projects around the home. We compared the new drill to its earlier predecessor, the DW952 (the drill more immediately replaces the DW926K-2) and found several distinct improvements which make this new model a pleasure to work with and a definite step up in the 9.6V category.

Build Quality

The DC750KA comes complete with molded plastic carry case, Ni-Cd charger and two batteries. The drill itself features a 3/8'' "single sleeve" ratcheting chuck and we found it to be extremely easy to change out bits rapidly. This is a two-speed drill (0-300/0-1100 rpm) with an easy to use switch located on the top of the unit. Even the switch is an improvement over older models as it does away with the "indented" button design in favor of a central ridge that can be slapped into place with the edge of your hand. The new clutch is a 15-position model and the bypass/drill mode is located in position 16. Balance was excellent and this drill can now stand up when set down on its battery. Handling felt very comfortable. We liked the rubber overmold on the back side of the handle and at 3.4 lbs you won't find your arm straining unless your name is Alice and you weigh 80 pounds soaking wet (sorry, Alice).

The batteries are almost identical to our reference DW952 and you can expect those to last anywhere from 2-3 years before they go bad. As with all Ni-Cd systems, try to use the entire battery before charging it. The

Ergonomics and Use

As we mentioned, the DC750KA is a very light tool for a Ni-Cd system and the rubber overmold allows the drill to stay firmly in-hand, even when your palms are sweaty. This is especially good for over-the-head work or when you're reaching for that out-of-the-way spot and need that extra secure grip. Bit changes were a breeze and the one-piece plastic chuck was easy to maneuver with one hand. For those DIY project lovers, this is an easy tool to use. It provides very little in the way of complexity and it doesn't take a lot of strength to maximize the most out of the tool.

We did a side-by-side comparison of the DC750KA to the DW952 and the first thing we couldn't help but notice was how top-heavy the former tool was. Attempting to stand them up next to each other, resulted in the DC750KA sitting up comfortably, and the DW952 nose down into the ground. The older tool simply isn't balanced to sit erect on its battery. Unfortunately this "forward" design also meant that the tool wanted to tip while in your hand, creating an unnatural feel. The newer model improves on this and the difference makes it feel a half pound lighter.

From up top we noted the bit holder had been moved from beside the tool to in front of, and just atop, the battery compartment. You also get a feel for the simplified ratcheting chuck and the improved grip molding on the clutch. You can really grab the new clutch and twist it - it just feels tougher and more "glove-ready". The length on both drills is remarkably close, but the DW952 has maybe an 1/8" to 1/4" more from back to tip. What is different is that the entire motor structure is set back farther - and this is what makes the drill sit better in a more centrally-balanced fashion. It comes across as a simpler tool, with a simpler design. Rather than taking away from the attraction, this actually works to make it seem more rugged.

We did several things with this drill. First, we drilled several 7/8" holes through pressure treated lumber. Next we drove a bunch of 1/4" Tapcons through PT and into concrete block. There were also many other wood-driving tests, but the bottom line is that the DC750KA performed more like a 12V model than a 9.6V. This drill is almost a hybrid product in that it offers some serious torque potential and high enough drill speeds to work in a variety of remodeler or do-it-yourself applications. It never bogged down and battery life was exceptional. With a < 1 hour charge time you should find yourself able to use it almost continuously in most circumstances.

Conclusion

One of the only drawbacks about this tool is the temptation it will give you to step up to DeWalt's 12V models. With only an average of $50-60 difference between 9.6V and 12V models (depending upon where you shop) the DC750KA runs the risk of being a "gateway tool" to cause you to spend more money. OK, another setback is the lack of any Nano (lithium-ion) batteries - so far they aren't even an option in DeWalt's line-up for its 9.6V or 12V category. Kudos to DeWalt for fixing the balance on this drill and continuing to offer a plastic molded case (even on their 9.6V model), instead of a bag as many other manufacturers are doing. If you find this tool on sale, it's a good buy and certainly one of the better performing 9.6V models we've seen.

Similar DeWalt Products:

• Heavy-Duty Compact 3/8'' (10mm) 12V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit - DC742KA
• Heavy-Duty 3/8" (10mm) 12V Cordless Compact Drill/Driver Kit - DC727VA/DC727KA 
• Heavy-Duty XRP 1/2" (13mm) 12V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit - DC940KA 
• Heavy-Duty Compact 3/8'' (10mm) 12V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit with vehicle charger - DC742VA