DEWALT DCH172B Drill Yellow Review
Our verdict
The DEWALT DCH172B is a battery-powered rotary hammer weighing just 4.6 pounds at $157.99, making it the lightest rotary hammer in this category. At 1060 RPM and 4.5 stars across its 16 reviews, it targets users who need maximum portability and minimal fatigue for overhead and precision masonry anchor work.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Users who prioritize minimal weight above all else for overhead concrete anchoring, finish masonry, or applications where a 4.6-pound rotary hammer is a meaningful ergonomic advantage.
Skip if
You need heavy-impact energy for reinforced concrete or demolition work, or you want a tool with a larger established review base before purchasing.
- Power Source Battery Powered, Corded Electric
- Voltage 60
- Amps 10 Amps
- Speed 1060 RPM
- Weight 4.6 Pounds
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.5/5
4.5 average across 16 owner ratings
-
Popularity0.2/5
16 owner reviews, fewer 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
The DEWALT DCH172B is powered by a 60-volt battery platform and delivers 1060 RPM at just 4.6 pounds. That weight is the standout specification: it is 1.9 pounds lighter than the next lightest cordless model in this group (the DEWALT DCH263B at 6.5 lbs) and 2.9 to 8 pounds lighter than every corded option. For overhead anchor installation in ceilings or upper walls, that difference is felt immediately in reduced arm strain across a full workday.
The 60-volt platform provides substantial battery energy density relative to 18-volt and 20-volt platforms, which is one reason the tool can achieve competitive performance in a very compact, light package. The 1060 RPM speed is mid-range for the category and reflects a balance between compactness and drilling capability.
The honest limitation of the DCH172B in this evaluation is its review count. With only 16 reviews, the 4.5-star average lacks the statistical depth of tools with hundreds or thousands of reviews. The 100 monthly buyers provide some confidence in ongoing demand, but buyers who rely on large review samples for purchase decisions may want to note this. At $157.99 tool-only, it is also the tool-only price before adding a 60-volt battery.
Pros
- 4.6 pounds is the lightest rotary hammer in this category, dramatically reducing overhead fatigue
- 60-volt battery platform provides high energy density in a compact form factor
- 1060 RPM speed is competitive with mid-range corded and cordless models
- 100 monthly buyers show active demand despite the small review sample
- Battery-powered design eliminates cord drag for full jobsite mobility
Cons
- Only 16 reviews limits confidence compared to category peers with hundreds or thousands
- $157.99 tool-only price requires additional investment in a 60-volt battery and charger
- Lighter frame may limit maximum impact energy for very dense or heavily reinforced concrete
Specifications
| Power Source | Battery Powered, Corded Electric |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 60 |
| Amps | 10 Amps |
| Speed | 1060 RPM |
| Weight | 4.6 Pounds |
Performance notes
The DCH172B operates on a 60-volt battery platform at 1060 RPM. The extreme light weight of 4.6 pounds is the defining performance characteristic: it enables one-handed use and extended overhead operation that 9 to 16-pound corded alternatives cannot match. The 60-volt platform contributes meaningful power delivery relative to lower-voltage cordless tools. The 10-amp spec listed alongside the battery power source likely refers to charger draw rather than tool draw.
What buyers say
With only 16 reviews at 4.5 stars, the sample is too small to draw broad conclusions, though the initial signal is positive. Based on the available verified owner reviews, buyers highlight the weight and balance as the primary reasons for selecting this model. The 100 monthly buyers suggest it is gaining traction in the market, and the review base may grow substantially over time.
Similar power tools and workshop machinery to consider
Frequently asked questions
What battery does the DEWALT DCH172B require?
The listing specifies a 60-volt battery platform. The battery and charger are sold separately from the $157.99 tool-only price. DEWALT's 60V MAX FLEXVOLT batteries are the compatible platform.
Is the DCH172B suitable for sustained heavy masonry work given its light weight?
At 4.6 pounds with a battery-powered design, it is optimized for lightweight precision and overhead work rather than sustained heavy demolition. Users who regularly tackle reinforced concrete should consider a higher-amp corded or higher-voltage cordless model.
Questions about the DCH172B or lightweight rotary hammer options?
Contact the ToolGalaxy team at hello@toolgalaxy.com for guidance on compact and lightweight rotary hammers.