DeWalt DC234KL 36V

DeWalt’s version of the Lithium-Ion 36V Cordless SDS drill has been on the market since 2007 and in that time has picked up plenty of fans. There’s no doubt it’s a fine drill to work with, but the spec has been overtaken by some of the more recent cordless SDS models. (Review continues below…)

The strengths of the The DeWalt DC234KL 36V are its comparative lightness and solid anti-vibration technology. Also, with two batteries and two chucks you won’t need to take another drill to your job. And as prices have come down considerably since its launch, you may be able to pick up a bargain compared to the newer rivals.

The DeWalt DC234KL 36V SDS drill in detail

Drilling power

When first launched the DeWalt DC234KL made quite an impact; a big brand name cordless SDS that hammered away with 2.5 joules of energy and drilled out chunky 26mm diameter holes in brickwork. For most people this will still be easily sufficient to deliver everything needed on-site, however both the Bosch GBH36VLI and the Makita 36V BHR261RDE deliver a mighty 3.0 joules from their Litium-Ion batteries, eclipsing the DeWalt’s performance significantly.

• 36V cordless SDS drill
• 2.5 Joules
• 450 Watts
• Maximum drilling capacity: (diameter) Concrete – 26mm, Steel – 13mm, Wood – 30mm
• No load speed 0 – 1,150 rpm
• Blows per minute: 0-0-4300 bpm

Vibration control

As we’ve seen on other its other cordless SDS drills, DeWalt is fully committed to reducing vibration. The DC234KL has an internal mechanism connected to external coverings via spring dampeners which reduces vibration measurably, meaning it’s easier to operate for longer.

• Hand/Arm Vibration 8.5 m/s2
• Uncertainty K 1 (Vibration) 1.7 m/s²
• Hand/Arm Vibration – Chisel 4.5 m/s²

Drill weight and length

At 3.8kg is lighter than both the Bosch and Makita 36V cordless SDS drills (except for the less powerful Bosch GBH 36V-LI Compact Professional at 2.9kg). If weight is a factor for you the DeWalt becomes more attractive as you can use it more comfortably for longer, which is helped by DeWalt’s vibration control technology. At 320mm it’s also a tad smaller than the Bosch 36V-Li which makes it easier to use in tighter spaces.

Battery type and performance

This DeWalt 36V cordless SDS drill uses Lithium-Ion batteries and compared to the 24 volt Dewalt SDS drill delivers 70% more runtime, more double the battery life and manages an 80% full charge within 30 minutes of charging.

Chuck type

The quick release SDS plus chuck allows you to swap to a 13mm 3 jaw chuck to drill in screws and drill into timber and soft metal.

Number of drilling modes

3 modes. Rotation only, hammering with rotation, or hammering only with rotation stop for light chiselling applications in tiles and plaster and impact stop mode for rotary drilling only in wood and steel.

Other features worth mentioning

• Efficient and neatly designed gearbox for extended runtime and less weight
• Electronic motor brake for extra control
• Spring based battery latch mechanism and guide rail for fast changes and secure battery fitting
• Rubber coated grip to reduce vibration (although one reviewer commented on the need for more protection around the battery in case of a drop from height)

Includes:

• 2 Lithium-Ion batteries
• 1 hour rapid charger
• Multi-position side handle
• 13 mm diameter 3 jaw keyless quick change chuck
• Grease
• Heavy duty carrying case.