While not used every day, the DeWalt DCD740C1 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Compact Right Angle Drill could prove to be a lifesaver for getting into super-tight spaces, thanks to its small head size. If you ever have to put in a screw or drill a hole in a place that is almost out of reach, then you know the value of a good right-angle drill. The DeWalt looks like a good choice since it has a two-speed transmission, a compact head size, and a more ergonomic handle, which means better ease of use.
Carpenters, cabinetmakers and installers, woodworkers, remodelers, electricians, and plumbers will surely be the first in line to grab one of these once they start to show up in stores. The 20V MAX cordless tools combine innovative tool and battery technology with the durability that many trade professionals have counted on for years.
Build Quality and Features
The new DeWalt DCD740C1 right-angle drill weighs just 3.8 pounds and has a head that measures only 4 inches in length from front to back. Thanks to the new 20V MAX slide pack Lithium-Ion batteries, the handle design is slimmer and more ergonomic. To make sure that you have the speed you need, this drill has a selectable two-speed transmission that delivers 0-650 on low and 0-2,000 RPM on high. The motor control comes from a large trigger that allows for multiple hand positions on the tool. Like other 20V MAX cordless tools, this one has an extra rubber overmold that ensures a good grip.
The keyless 3/8″ chuck has a cool feature that makes it even more helpful in tight situations. In the back of the chuck is a deep 1/4″ hex pocket, which allows a 2-inch hex bit to be installed almost all the way in. So even with the bit inserted, this feature reduces overall length to just 4-1/2 inches. Electronics are built into the switches of all the new 20V MAX tools. Their purpose is to extend the life of the drill and batteries by helping to protect them from overheating, overloading, and deep discharge during use. An LED work light is also built into the drill, which makes drilling in the dark a thing of the past.
DeWalt DCD740C1 Features
The included quick charger for the 20V MAX Lithium-Ion system has dual voltage capabilities, so it’s compatible with the 12V MAX Lithium-Ion batteries as well. Just in case you are wondering, the compact 12V MAX batteries will not fit or function on the 20V MAX tools. It should also be noted that the 20V MAX designation is because DeWalt wanted to ensure that there was no confusion with their current 18V line in the North American market. Rather than a top post design DeWalt users are familiar with, the new 20V MAX batteries are a slide-on sled style, much like what we have seen on their new 12V MAX compact cordless tools.
A single 1.5Ah battery and a heavy-duty carrying case are included with the drill. The right-angle drill comes with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee. The included single 1.5Ah Lithium-Ion battery pack comes with a two-year free service contract. If you need more battery capacity, a 3.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery can be purchased separately, and it will come with a three-year free service contract.
Testing and Use
Being familiar with the current 18V DeWalt tools makes it even easier to appreciate some of the innovative and new features of the new DCD740C1 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Compact Right Angle Drill. Right away, the larger trigger made it easier to grab the handle either from the back end by the battery or around the barrel of the motor up near the head. The two-speed transmission is also a plus in that, when switched to low, it’s easy to take advantage of the motor’s torque to drive screws.
Drilling was easy and quick when set on high speed, even with larger paddle bits. Probably one of the biggest standout features was the ability to insert a 2-inch-long standard 1/4″ hex drive bit deep into the chuck so that only the tip of the bit stuck out. Things like the belt clip and the LED light are also nice touches that we appreciate.
Conclusion
Nearly every time I have used a right-angle drill was in a situation where it was the only tool that could do the job. Whether for drilling or screwing, the DeWalt DCD740C1 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Compact Right Angle Drill is a compelling choice. For our Performance rating, we gave this drill a 9/10 since it not only had plenty of power and torque to drive screw and drill holes, but it also had extras like the extra deep chuck, the belt clip, and the LED light.
For our Value Rating, we gave this drill an 8/10 since it represents a pretty fair value when compared to the competition, with our only gripe being: where is the built-in battery level indicator? If you are getting ready to purchase some DeWalt tools, we suggest upgrading to the 20V MAX for sure.
