Flex’s 24V line has a few drywall-specific tools so far, which is handy for construction and remodeling Pros relying on this system to make a living. One of these tools is the Flex Drywall Cut Out Tool, which boasts some competitive numbers compared to similar tools on the market. While it’s not a brand-new model, I wanted to show you what to expect from it and how it can benefit your workflow.
Flex 24V Drywall Cut Out Tool: Overview
- Model: Flex FX2471
- Weight: 1.9 lbs
- Length: 9 inches
- Max speed: 28,000 RPM
- Runtime: Up to 150 outlet boxes per charge
- Adjustable airflow
- Onboard LED Work light
- Brushless motor
- Onboard wrench storage
- Collet Diameters (Included): 1/4 in and 1/8 in
The Flex FX2471 is the brand’s first dedicated drywall cut-out tool. Its brushless motor drives bit speeds of up to 28,000 RPM, and is compatible with both 1/8-inch and 1/4-inch bits. Although the bit-change system requires a wrench like most models, there’s an onboard storage slot to keep it close at hand.
For runtime, Flex estimates you can cut up to 150 outlet boxes using the kitted 2.5Ah battery. Doing the math, that equals out to around 120 linear feet per charge.
By nature, these tools put out a lot of drywall dust while cutting. To combat this, Flex included an adjustable airflow function, which lets you control the airflow direction to conduct dust away from your work area. This is a feature unique to this model, so I appreciate that the design team went the extra mile to combat a common drywall annoyance.
How Does it Compare?
Several other brands offer cordless drywall cut-out tools. If you’re on Flex’s 24V platform, you can see how the FX2471 stacks up against similar tools on the market.
| Flex FX2471 (this model) | Metabo HPT 18V M18DYAQ4 | Milwaukee M18 2627 | DeWalt 20V Max DCE555 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 28,000 RPM | 28,000 RPM | 28,000 RPM | 26,000 RPM |
| Collet Sizes | 1/8, 1/4-inch | 1/8, 1/4-inch | 1/8, 1/4-inch | 1/8, 1/4-inch |
| Weight | 1.9 lbs | 1.6 lbs | 1.8 lbs | 1.7 lbs |
| Price | $109 bare | $129 bare | $149 bare | $199 bare |
You can see that Flex is right where it needs to be in terms of speed. While it’s a touch heavier than its main competitors, it’s also less expensive. That additional value is something we’ve come to appreciate from Flex, and one reason why Pros make the switch from other brands.
Flex Drywall Cut Out Tool Price
This tool retails for $109 as a bare tool and $249 for the kit, including two 24V 2.5Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a tool bag. For all of your drywall needs, Flex also features this product in a 2-tool kit with a drywall screw gun and magazine attachment for $329.
Flex backs your purchase with a Limited Lifetime Warranty when you register your tool within 30 days of purchase.
Should You Buy It?
As Flex’s first entry into the drywall cutout tool market, the FX2471 solidifies itself as a quality contender among the crowd. It has the same max speed levels as other top models, a manageable weight for all-day use, and the long service life that comes with a brushless motor. Plus, it’s the least expensive model in its class for the bare tool at the time of writing, offering a great value for those on Flex’s 24V platform.
Cut-out tools made specifically for drywall are great for electrical rough-ins and detail cutting, but they can be one-trick ponies. If you do a lot of dedicated drywall jobs, and you have other Flex 24V tools, adding one of these to your arsenal is a wise choice. However, for homeowners and DIY remodelers who only need to complete occasional drywall work, you can achieve similar results with a more versatile oscillating multi-tool, which will also come in handy for tons of other home projects.
