DEWALT 20V XR Max 1/2″ Hammer Drill Driver
DEWALT DCD806 20V XR Max 1/2″ Hammer Drill Review
A hammer drill isn’t just a tool; it’s the bouncer at the door of the construction world, letting you walk confidently into places where regular drills fear to tread. Whether you’re anchoring into a block wall or playing “who’s tougher” with a slab of cured concrete, a hammer drill makes the difference between looking like a pro and looking like someone who should’ve stayed in bed.
When it comes to the toughest drilling applications—like sinking anchors into concrete, punching through brick, or boring into stone—there’s simply no substitute for a hammer drill. Standard drills might get you through drywall and softwood, but once you hit dense materials, they stall, overheat, or worse, snap bits. A hammer drill combines rotational force with a rapid, hammering action that breaks up tough surfaces as it drills, making it essential for heavy-duty tasks. Whether you’re working on a job site or tackling serious DIY projects, having a hammer drill in your arsenal means you’re ready to take on materials that would stop ordinary drills cold.
Recently, DEWALT sent us their new DCD806 20V XR Max Cordless ½-inch Hammer Drill to test and evaluate on the job site. Let’s take a closer look at the specifications, the job performance, and pricing.
Features and Specifications
The DCD806 is DEWALT’s latest iteration in the 20 V Max XR heavy-duty hammer drill lineup. significantly boosting output to 1,050 MWO—roughly 109% more powerful than earlier models like the DCD805. At 7 inches in length and ~3 pounds bare, this drill is noticeably compact and light—ideal for overhead work, tight spaces, and long job site days. Grip comfort and balanced motor placement reduce fatigue—a credible win for pros and DIY’ers.
Manufacture Specifications:
- ¼″–½″ ratcheting metal chuck
- 2‑speed gearbox: 0–650 RPM (1st speed) and 0–2,000 RPM (2nd speed), plus a hammer mode at 34,000 BPM.
- Anti-rotation
- 3‑position LED
Performance on Concrete
One of the most common and demanding applications for a hammer drill is installing tapcons into concrete—something the DEWALT DCD806 20V XR Max Hammer Drill handles with confidence and control. Whether you’re securing sill plates or anchoring strapping to concrete foundations, the DCD806 delivers the muscle and precision needed to drill consistent, clean holes.
With its 34,000 BPM in hammer mode, the DCD806 makes short work of standard 3/16″ to 1/4″ Tapcon holes. Set to the low gear (Speed 1) for maximum torque and hammer impact, the drill drives through poured concrete like a pro. In field use, we were able to drill dozens of holes in a concrete foundation without overheating the tool or losing performance, thanks in part to the brushless motor and intelligent power management.
During strapping installations, hole accuracy and stability are crucial, especially when working near edges or in areas where spacing tolerances are critical. The DCD806’s compact form factor and 3-mode LED help maintain visibility in cramped crawlspaces or dim basements.
General Drilling & Hole‑Saw Work
When it comes to hole saw applications, especially larger diameters like a 4″ hole saw for a dryer vent, the DEWALT DCD806 proves its capability with confidence. Drilling through 3/4″ plywood can put significant strain on a drill, particularly at the point of initial contact where torque demands spike. The DCD806’s 2-speed transmission allows you to drop into Speed 1 (0–650 RPM) for better control and torque delivery, crucial for keeping the hole saw from bouncing or walking during the cut. The drill’s high-output brushless motor easily chews through plywood layers without stalling.
Pilot holes with cobalt bits (e.g., 5/16″) were efficiently handled, which is your standard typical type of drilling.
LED Illumination
The 3-position LED (high, low, or 20-minute auto-on) helps precisely set bit start points in dark or tight spaces. Auto-timed light mode is perfect when drilling repetitive holes—light stays on without overheating the battery.
The ratcheting metal chuck handles large bits; speeds and torque are ideal. LED adds real utility. For serious hole-saw projects, it keeps up well, control and safety intact.
Anti-Rotation System
One of the most common and dangerous hazards when using a high-torque drill—especially in concrete drilling—is sudden kickback. This occurs when the bit binds or catches unexpectedly, causing the entire tool to twist violently in your hand. The result? Sprained wrists, bruised knuckles, or worse. It’s one of the leading causes of drill-related injuries on job sites and in home workshops alike. When you’re working from a ladder or in a tight space, even a slight twist from a binding bit can throw off your balance or lead to tool drops, stripped holes, or damaged work pieces.
That’s where the DEWALT DCD806’s anti-kickback system shines. Built into the tool as part of DEWALT’s Perform & Protect line, the drill uses an internal sensor that constantly monitors resistance at the motor. The moment it detects a sudden torque spike—like when a hole saw bites too hard or a masonry bit hits rebar—it instantly shuts off power to the motor and flashes a red LED warning to alert the user. This system acts faster than human reflexes, preventing the tool from twisting out of your grip or causing injury. By turning a potentially dangerous situation into a quick, controlled stop, the DCD806 offers a layer of protection that’s not just smart—it’s essential
Pricing
The DEWALT DCD806 is currently only sold as a bare tool. DEWALT has not paired this up with a battery and charger, and when they do, I would anticipate two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger to round out the kit. Currently, the DCD806 sells for $199.00 at Ohio Power Tool, ACME Tool, and most large box stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Final Thoughts
The DEWALT DCD806 20V XR Hammer Drill is a standout addition to the XR line. It takes the compact size of lightweight drills but supercharges it with nearly flagship-level performance. Whether you’re drilling taps into concrete, tackling large hole-saws in plywood, or driving heavy screws daily, the DCD806 offers the versatility, safety features, and runtime needed.
For contractors, woodworkers, and serious DIYers seeking a single drill for a wide spectrum of tasks, this tool delivers clear value. The anti-rotation shutdown adds a layer of protection that elevates it above many similar offerings. If you’re in the market for a dependable, compact drill that handles both masonry and large-bore lots with ease, the DCD806 deserves a spot in your kit.
