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I don't see how you could go wrong with it. It can do 95% of what you need if you're doing basic residential home construction or remodeling. It is absolutely not a substitute for a real hammerdrill, even a small one like the Bosch bulldog. I abuse it - use it for things that I shouldn't, like running a mixing paddle for thinset - but it still runs straight and clean, handles finish work well. I actually have several on the site along with a lot of other DW 18volt tools.
It's just a well-made tradesman's standby. Nonetheless, it's very handy to have a drill like this in your holster. You could definitely say that a lighter model like the 14volt DeWalt is more convenient for drywalling. I use this drill every day. And the hammerdrill function is only useful for very light work, like drilling the occasional anchor hole in brick.
If you're a hobbyist, you could probably go with a lighter model, but this one really takes a beating.
Given the number of great reviews this drill gets I am willing to accept that I got a lemon. If you buy one hope you get one of the five star drills and not a one star like I did. Just returning the drill is a long trip for me and we need tools that we can rely on. But this drill was nothing but problems for me and I returned it. A competitors product in the same price range has been used and abused for a month now and is going great.
I have a workshop, barn and truck bed full of Dewalt tools and I would give every one of them a five or four rating. This was within the first five hours of use. I was not willing to take my chances on another. Sounds like Dewalt has some real quality control issues on this drill. First.
The chuck adjustment was terrible, the speed(transmission switch) would not stay locked in position and the final straw was the distinctive sound of metal on metal and a wisp of smoke. Our work is often done way "off the paved road" for you Foxworthy fans.
I found that I could drill about 10 - 15 holes on a charged battery, depending on the ice depth of 10 - 18 inches. The Dewalt was able to handle the job easily. no startup and warmup. My expectations were based on other ice fisherman recommendations. I carry both batteries along and I keep them warm to get the maximum power and life. I used an Beaver Bay 10" long adapter between the auger cutting head and the drill, but added a strap, just in case the auger pulled free of the drill (problem for some I talked to).
I can drill 3 holes in the time it takes others with gas augers to drill one hole. I bought this cordless to use with a 6" Lazer ice Auger. I was pleasantly surprised and satisfied with the results. The best part of it is not having to carry a heavy gas drill around.
but as selling to international clients maxtool could/should disclose more information about battery charger input voltage (as australia is different to united states)output voltages mentioned in detals. product was almost exactly what i wanted, dewalt 18v hammer/drill/driver was great and delivery prompt and better than expected delivery date. minor detail but some small details are important.
I have been on my own 7 years and am now on my 2nd one. I have used it to drill 1/2 holes through new brick(I know go through the morter, but cant always do that) I have put 3/4 holes through cement block.
Plus the 988 is compact enough to fit between joists w/ a 1" bit on it I'm not saying anyone should do more than it's rated for, but lets face it in real life sometimes things happen This is something every one should own, would probably last a lifetime for a moderate user.
Used a 2 1/2 hole saw through 2x4.OK get the idea. My first one lasted about 4 years, until the body finally cracked and wouldn't hold the battery anymore.
I do low voltage installations, I use this mostly for intercom/entry installations. I ABUSE them pretty good.
I STRONGLY recomend getting them service every year or so.
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