DeWALT 12V Lithium Ion Screwdriver DCF610S
DeWALT 12V MAX Lithium Ion Screwdriver DCF610S2 Review
DeWalt recently announced the launch of its new 12 Volt MAX Lithium Ion 1/4″ Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2) as part of the new 12 Volt MAX cordless platform.
Weighing only 2.2 pounds, this cordless screwdriver is compact and super light. When you think about 2.2 lbs it’s approximately the same weight as an 18 Volt battery.
The DeWALT 12V Lithium Ion Screwdriver DCF610S is compact but powerful enough to handle a variety of professional contractor jobs.
I tested this screwdriver against the Milwaukee at Black and Decker University in Towson, MD. The DeWalt drive screws faster.
Who Can Use This Tool?
I see this as an ideal tool for re-modelers, electricians, cabinet installers, HVAC, woodworkers, Maintenance personnel and many other professionals whose jobs rely on fastening and drilling applications but do not require the torque or the weight of an 18 volt tool.
The beauty of this screwdriver is it’s weight and compact size [photo above] which translates into less fatigue using the tool and more opportunities to fit it into smaller tight spots like under sinks, inside electrical boxes and a slew of other hard to access places.
How Does It compare?
When compared to other 12 volt drivers, the DCF610S2 promises increased comfort due it’s ergonomically designed handle. This is due to the battery being located below the handle, similar to their 18V products.
Moving the battery below the handle means the handle is thinner, feels more ergonomic and the tools weight is better balanced.
Three LED lights positioned around the hex of the screwdriver eliminate shadows and provide excellent visibility in dark locations.
LED Lights
The three LED lights and their placement make a huge difference when I compared them to the competition. See below:
The DeWALT above is super bright with no shadows. The unique placement of the LED’s assures that your trigger finger will not block your light!
The 12V competitor below has only one LED light that is located above the trigger the result is much less light and a shadow.
The new 1/4-inch hex chuck allows users to simply push the bit in to lock it in place with one hand. It also accepts a one-inch bit tip which allows the user to fit this tool into the tight spots. [e.g., in cabinets and under sinks.]
The trigger is variable speed and the clutch delivers 0-1,050 RPMs. I used this screwdriver in the shop for a few days before bringing it to the job site. It is a powerful driver.
According to John Castelino, Sr. Product Manager for DeWalt, the DCF610S2 can drive 207 2-1/2″ cabinet screws on a single battery charge. DeWalt went to directly to the end users at job sites to see what they needed. The result is a powerful, ultra compact screwdriver that is durable and packed with innovative features that increase productivity.”
The new Screwdriver Kit (DCF610S2) includes two 12 Volt MAX Lithium Ion battery packs, a 40 minute charger, bit tip, belt hook and contractor bag in addition to the screwdriver.
The product will come with a three-year limited warranty, one year free service contract and 90-day money back guarantee. For more information about the warranty or available accessories, visit http://www.dewalt.com.
FEATURES:
• 1/4-inch hex chuck
• 0-1,050 RPM
• 2) 12 Volt MAX Li-ion battery packs
• 40 minute charger
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Three LED lights
WHERE TO BUY:
The new 12V drill/driver sells for approximately $139. Purchase one here: DEWALT-DCF610S2-12-Volt-4-Inch-Screwdriver