The new sub-compact, or ultra compact line of tools is really starting to take off. They offer greater power and an incredibly small size. Black & Decker has finally entered the fray with its new EGBL108K (also known under model# LDX112C) Ultra Compact 10.8v Lithium Ion Drill (which seems to be debuting in Europe currently). Featuring a 10.8V Lithium Ion battery, this drill allows users to go places their bulkier 18V tools couldn’t venture. All things considered, this small but powerful drill seems like a nice addition to any tool kit. In fact, if the kit sells at typical Black & Decker price points, we’d estimate a street price of under $100. The shape of the tool is unique, giving it a bottom-positioned, front-loading battery. The net result is a sort of U-shaped design that keeps the weight off the back end and balances out the tool – though at the expense of increased bulk and an awkward stance.
At only 7.75″ tall and nearly as long, the Ultra Compact 10.8V Lithium Ion Drill can still be easily maneuvered into tight quarters. It also features an integrated LED worklight to provide visibility in darker areas. Weighing just 1.75 lbs and equipped with a soft grip handle, the lightweight Black & Decker drill is designed to be comfortable to hold, even overhead or in odd positions, such as when hanging shelves or performing in-cabinetry work. With a variable speed trigger and ten clutch positions, the correct settings can be selected to perform precision tasks that your larger hammer drill would be overkill for, such as drilling into fragile surfaces including mirror and tile.
Quick Specs
- Voltage: 10.8V
- Amps: 1.3 Ah
- Battery Cell Type: Lithium-Ion x 2
- Charge time: 3 hours
- Chuck size: 3/8-inch
- Speed: 0-600 rpm
- Torque settings: 11
- Height: 7.75″ H
- Weight: 1.2 Pounds
- Storage Case
Because it has a Lithium Ion battery, the Black & Decker EGBL108K Ultra Compact 10.8V Drill can hold a charge for over a year – so it’s ready to go when you are. Lithium Ion batteries also keep most of their power throughout the entire duration of the charge and then die out at the very end, giving you more time to use the tool.
On the rare occasions that the battery runs flat, the front-loading battery design means that the battery can be easily removed for charge and replaced with a back up (the kit includes two batteries), allowing you to continue working. This odd design is actually designed to give the drill better balance, though we’ll have to try one out for an extended review before we agree with that.
