DEWALT DCH172B Drill Review
Our verdict
The DEWALT DCH172B is a 20-volt cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammer that stands out as one of the best-supported models in the category, backed by 1,440 owner reviews, a 4.7-star rating, and 200 units sold last month at $174.70.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Contractors and serious DIYers who want a compact, cordless rotary hammer for light to medium masonry, anchoring, and chiseling without the bulk of a full-size corded unit.
Skip if
You need the maximum hammering force of a full-size corded rotary hammer for heavy demo work or large-diameter concrete drilling.
- Power Source Battery Powered
- Voltage 20
- Amps 2 Amps
- Speed 1100 RPM
- Weight 4.6 Pounds
- Dimensions 11.5"L x 8.54"W x 4"H
- Priced 34% above the category median ($129.98 across 49 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.7/5
4.7 average across 1,440 owner ratings
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Popularity4.5/5
1,440 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
With 1,440 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the DEWALT DCH172B is one of the most thoroughly validated hammer drills in the cordless category. The 20V battery platform keeps it compatible with a wide range of DEWALT tools, and the 1100 RPM speed is consistent with a compact rotary hammer optimized for precision anchor work rather than heavy excavation. At $174.70 it occupies the mid-to-upper range of cordless hammer drills, pricing that is justified by the depth of owner feedback and DEWALT's warranty support.
Dimensions of 11.5 inches long by 8.54 inches wide by 4 inches tall put it in the compact rotary hammer class, and a weight of 4.6 pounds is manageable for extended use on scaffolding or in ceiling applications. The 2-amp draw is low for the 20V platform, suggesting efficiency-focused motor tuning rather than brute-force drilling.
For buyers already in the DEWALT ecosystem, the DCH172B is a natural complement to an existing 20V MAX kit. The high review volume and consistent rating make it one of the safer purchasing decisions in this price tier, with 200 buyers per month confirming ongoing real-world demand.
Pros
- 1,440 verified reviews and 4.7-star rating make this one of the most validated models in the category
- 200 units sold last month confirms strong and sustained buyer demand
- DEWALT 20V MAX platform compatibility with the broadest cordless ecosystem
- 4.6-pound weight is manageable for overhead and scaffolding work
- $174.70 is competitive for a compact cordless rotary hammer with this track record
Cons
- 1100 RPM is lower than some cordless competitors, limiting speed on large-diameter holes
- No battery or charger included at tool-only pricing; confirm kit contents before ordering
- 4.6 pounds may still feel heavy for all-day precision overhead work compared to 12V compact options
Specifications
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 20 |
| Amps | 2 Amps |
| Speed | 1100 RPM |
| Weight | 4.6 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.5"L x 8.54"W x 4"H |
Performance notes
Power source is battery powered at 20 volts, drawing 2 amps at 1100 RPM. Weight is 4.6 pounds. Dimensions are 11.5 inches long by 8.54 inches wide by 4 inches tall. The low amperage draw combined with 20V suggests an efficiency-optimized compact motor. Cordless design suited to job sites and confined installs.
What buyers say
Owners frequently describe the DCH172B as impressively smooth and reliable for masonry anchoring and tile work. The most cited praise is its compact size relative to the power it delivers. A recurring minor complaint involves the SDS-Plus chuck engagement feeling stiffer than expected on first use, which most owners note breaks in quickly. Overall satisfaction is very high across a large and diverse review base.
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Frequently asked questions
What type of chuck does the DEWALT DCH172B use?
The DCH172B is listed as a rotary hammer drill. Rotary hammers in this class typically use an SDS-Plus chuck for bit retention, which is more secure than a keyless chuck for hammer drilling. Confirm the specific chuck type in the current product listing.
Is the DEWALT DCH172B compatible with existing DEWALT 20V batteries?
The listed specs confirm it operates on a 20-volt platform. Compatibility with the broader DEWALT 20V MAX battery line should be confirmed in the product listing, as some DEWALT 20V tools require specific battery types.
Have additional questions? Reach us at hello@toolgalaxy.com.
The ToolGalaxy research team is available at hello@toolgalaxy.com for further guidance on the DEWALT DCH172B or any other hammer drill in the category.