The Dewalt DC100KA Cordless Combi Drill

The Dewalt DC100KA is a high quality cordless combi drill that is capable of tough work.

As with all of the power tools in the Dewalt range, the DC100 is aimed at the professional user that needs a tool they can rely on to carry out their daily tasks on-site. But it is not just the trade users that look towards Dewalt when making the decision to buy a new cordless or electric power tool.

Dewalt tools are also favoured by keen DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and people that undertake maintenance, restoration, and repair work at-home. This could be an individual that has a hobby of woodworking, landscaping, car or motorcycle home maintenance, machinery and vehicle restorations, or possibly the building of furniture or garden structures.

Dewalt DC100KA 18v 1.3ah Ni-Cd Combi Drill

* Hammer action
* Screw driving action
* Drilling action

.....a 3 mode combination drill

Features of the Dewalt DC100KA 

In no particular order this cordless hammer combination drill has the following features:

• High power 18v motor
• High power 18 volt Ni-Cd rechargeable battery pack
• 1 hour fast battery charger
• 13mm keyless chuck 
• 17 individual torque settings
• An efficient fan-cooled 18 volt motor 
• Electric brake 
• Variable trigger control
• 2 speed gearbox
• Rubber coated handle grips
• Carry case included

The high powered 18v motor fitted to the Dewalt DC100KA gives it the power to drill into a wide range of materials including light stonework and bricks, plastic, metal, and wood. By light stonework we are referring to standard house bricks, construction blocks, and pressed stone slabs. Light concrete can be tackled but you will need a really good quality masonry drill bit and need to allow the drill to work at its own pace.

Drilling capacities of the Dewalt DC100KA are:

Wood x 38mm capacity
Masonry x 13mm capacity
Metal x 13mm capacity
Plastic x 13mm capacity (unless a hole saw or zip bit is used)  

For drilling into metal, plasterboard, plastics and wood, the DC100 has a non-hammer action mode coupled with a two speed gear. This gives two speed ranges for the operator to choose from. In addition this cordless drill has a variable speed trigger (as well as reverse) control so you can vary the speed in both gears as well. This  gives the user giving greater flexibility when using this high powered combi drill.

For the drilling of masonry this cordless drill features a percussion hammer action mode, this is intended for the drilling of standard house bricks, building blocks, and pressed stonework.

One area where this particular cordless drill really excels is when put to use for screw-driving applications. Its high voltage motor, variable speed and gearbox settings, coupled with adjustable torque control really allow the user to make progress at driving fixings.

The assembly of flat-pack furniture is a doddle when you use the Dewalt DC100KA. Think of Ikea ©  type furniture and we're sure you know what we mean!

Even large capacity screws can be handled with this particular Dewalt tool.  

Cheapest Cordless Drill?

The Dewalt DC100KA 18v Combi Drill is not the cheapest cordless tool that money can buy, but it does offer outstanding quality, reliability, and performance when you see what you get for the price. With most sellers offering two batteries with the purchase of a DC100 its amazing that you can buy a Dewalt Cordless Drill for such a low price.

Dewalt 18v Cordless Combination Hammer Drills

Information On Dewalt 18 Volt Cordless Combi Hammer Drills

As with all major power tool manufacturers, Dewalt have a range of 18v cordless combi drills that have been designed for all round use in the home or workplace.

Unlike a dedicated hammer drill, their most popular models are classed as combination drills, being capable of drilling into light masonry, metals, woodwork, and plastics, and also featuring a screwdriver function.

The three clear modes on a combi hammer drill are; 1) Percussion hammer action 2) Normal drilling mode 3) Screwdriver mode.

The 18 volt motor size is the most popular "power size" of any cordless combination drill due to several factors. These are; the weight of the drill itself, the manageability whilst in use (taking into account the ergonomics and drills shape), the drills power, and above everything else, the all round capability, versatility, and performance.

Dewalts Range Of 18v Drills

The range of models manufactured by Dewalt have evolved over many years taking cutomer demand into account as well as improvements in manufacturing technology. With Dewalts history of being probably the top manufacturer in the World for cordless power tools they have updated and changed specifications and feaures on every new 18v cordless drill they have launched.

Recent models include the Dewalt DC988KA and the DC925 models. Both are very similar in design and construction, being capable of tough regular use by professional tradesmen that need a tool for daily use.

Dewalt DC988KA 18v Cordless Hammer Drill

This is a great value for money cordless hammer drill featuring a 18 volt motor for its power source, with current provided by 2 x 2.4aH NiCd batteries. Having a 13 mm keyless chuck the DC988KA can accept all popular sizes of drill and screwdriver bits with the drill capable of accurate drilling up to the following specifications:

• Wood - 50 mm
• Metals - 13 mm
• Masonry - 16 mm

As standard equipment this Dewalt cordless drill features a three (3) speed gearbox (with metal internal gearing), a multi position torque control, variable speed trigger action (fitted with a reverse action), electronic brake, and a fan cooled motor. For easy servicing the motor fitted to the DC988KA has replacement carbon brushes. Replacement is simple and fast for anyone used to servicing or repairing power tools.

For fast charging of its batteries the Dewalt DC988KA uses a rapid battery charger. The model number supplied with this particular drill is normally the DE9116 unit.

Dewalt DCD925B2 18v Cordless Drill

A later model than the DC988KA, this combination drill also features a three (3) speed gearbox providing three operating speed ranges to suit most tasks it is asked of. The lower gear provides optimum torque for powerful hammer action drilling into most types of masonry. When fitted with a masonry drill bit the DCD925B2 can drill into bricks, blocks, stone, and light concrete.

The second speed gives a medium speed range suitable for a wide range of applications. Different types of metal, plastics, and other materials can be tackled with this setting chosen. The third speed allows this 18v drill to run at a maximum no load speed of 2000 rpm. Hard and soft woods can be easily drilled with the Dewalt DCD925 on this gear setting, especially when twist or spade type drill bits are used.

The rechargeable battery packs supplied with the DCD925 B2 are not of the cheapest specification. As standard equipment each purchaser of this model will receive 2 x 2.6aH NiMh batteries giving this 18v drill a long running time on each charge. This particular model is also fitted with an extra sensitive variable speed control which increases user control when drilling and screwdriving.

Dewalt DCD925B2 Cordless Hammer Drill XRP

Dewalt DCD925 B2 18v Drill Product Information









The DCD925 is a versatile and powerful cordless hammer drill that is suitable for a wide range of uses at home or in the workplace.

As with all Dewalt cordless power tools this model is of an improved design over its predessor, the DC925 combi drill. This is by way of its overall design, as well as its ergonomics and specifications.

The Dewalt DCD925B2 is driven by a powerful 18 volt battery motor for heavy duty drilling and screwdriving applications. The batteries supplied with this unit as standard are the renowned XRP 18v NiMh battery packs. Two of these are included with the purchase of the DCD925 giving the drill an excellent runtime whether it is being used for screwdriving applications or work drilling into metal, wood, plastics, or masonry. The capacity of the rechargeable battery packs is 2.6aH, and when placed in the packaged charger unit require only a 40 minute charge time to be ready for use with full power.

The battery charger is an "intelligent" Dewalt Battery Charger that maintains the battery condition as well as charging it. It can also be used for a quick top up of the DCD925's battery packs if needed, and at any time.

Being a combination drill this new model has three (3) modes; 1) Hammer action for drilling into all types of masonry including bricks, blocks, slabs, plaster, stone, marble, and light concrete. 2) Drilling mode used for rapid boring into all types of hard and soft woods as well as plastics and metals. 3) Screwdriver mode for controlled screwing of fasteners and fixings.

Three (3) Speed Metal Gearbox

To allow this drill to perform over a wide speed range (both chuck and motor) the Dewalt DCD925B2 is fitted with a three (3) speed gearbox. Coupled with an ultra smooth gear selector this gives the drill three operating speeds. When used in conjunction with its variable trigger control this gives speed ranges of:

(1) 0-500 rpm / (2) 0-1250rpm / (3) 0-2000rpm

Unlike older models of cordless drill drivers and dedicated cordless hammer drills it is this wide speed range that makes the DCD925 a versatile and great all round tool for the professional user.

Comparison To The Dewalt DC988KA

The new model is sold alongside the DC988KA model combination drill which is well known to most builders, joiners, plumbers, electricians, and other professional tradesmen. The DC988 is a good value for money cordless drill that has been on sale for several years now, having been dropped from the Dewalt range at one point, and then resurrected again.

With lower specifications than the new DCD925 it is normally not first choice for the user looking to buy the best and latest model, but is aimed at the user that has a limited budget but which would rather stick with a Dewalt Power Tool because of their strength, robustness, and high performance.

Dewalt DCD925B Specifications:

• 3 Mode Combination Drill
• 18 Volt Battery
• 2.6aH Battery Capacity
• 13mm Chuck Capacity
• 450w Electric Motor
• Weight - 2.9 kg
• Batteries x2 (NiMh)
• 40 Minute Full Charge Type
• Intelligent Battery Charger
• Max Torque 55 Nm
• Variable Speed & Reverse Action
• 13mm Keyless Chuck (Metal)
• Chuck Capacity 1.5mm - 13mm
• Auto Spindle Lock
• Drilling Capacity - 50mm Wood
• Drilling Capacity - 13mm Metal
• Drilling Capacity - 16mm Masonry
• White LED Integral Worklight
• 22 Position Torque Clutch Control
• Supplied With Side Handle
• Carry Case
• 12 Month Warranty (Trade Use)

Summary Of This Dewalt Cordless Hammer Drill

The Dewalt DCD925 B2 can tackle most tasks the professional user will throw at it. By using the drills three speed gearbox it is capable of drilling into metal, wood, and timber with perfect control. Accurate screwdriving especially with large capacity wood screws is easy for this drill, helped by the 22 position torque control and variable speed trigger action. Removing screws and fasteners can be described as "childs play" when the reverse action is selected.

The busy tradesman will appreciate the speed with which drill bits or other accessories can be swapped using the standard keyless 13mm heavy duty chuck. The auto spindle lock fitted allows single handed use with this particular chuck.

This particular model cordless combination hammer drill is the not the cheapest you can buy, but it is a great all rounder offering strong performance over many other rival brands. A statement about Dewalt Power Tools is that they are guaranteed to be tough, powerful, precise, and reliable.

In addition ergonomics now play a big part with modern cordless drills. This also applies to this model with it having a good overall balance, a reasonable weight, and fitted rubber grips. These features increase comfort for the user w hen working for long periods of time with the Dewalt DCD925B2.

Dewalt Battery Care

Information On Caring For Dewalt Rechargeable Batteries

1) Are Genuine Dewalt Batteries Manufactured To A Higher Quality Than Alternative Brands Or Copies?

Yes. It is recommended that only genuine Dewalt branded battery units are fitted to any Dewalt Power Tool.

2) Do the battery packs need to be completely discharged before re-charging?

No. It is just the opposite. As soon as you feel or notice a significant drop in power or speed from the particular cordless tool you are using, you should stop using the battery that is fitted. It is at this time when it is best to re-charge it using the recommended charger unit. If a rechargeable battery is totally run down it could damage it.

3) Can any battery charger manufactured by Dewalt be used to charge my battery?

No. Particular Dewalt battery chargers will only recharge certain batteries. Dewalt however do make and sell several charger units which accept the majority of batteries they have produced. These are described as their "intelligent chargers. These units have been developed over the years and can accept battery packs of different voltages, capacity sizes, and chemical make up. Different specifications and fitment apply to each unit.

4) What are the model numbers of their "intelligent" multi voltage chargers?

Several code / spare part numbers apply. The most popular ones being; DE9112, DE9116, DE9117, DE9216.

5) Why does the battery become warm whilst it is being charged?

During the charging process, as the rechargeable battery reaches full power capacity some of the energy converts to heat. A battery in good condition should become warm to the touch at this point, but not become hot. If you have a Dewalt battery that gets hot after a full charge the battery or charger unit has developed a fault or reached the end of its useful service life.

6) Can the temperature affect a Dewalt battery or it's operating performance?

Yes. If the temperature is cold (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit) or too hot (105 degrees Fahrenheit or more) it will not accept a full charge. If charging is attempted in these temperature extremes the battery in most cases will suffer a reaction and be damaged, affecting it's runtime and overall performance when fitted to a power tool.

7) Can an automotive charger be used with Dewalt cordless tool batteries?

Yes. However, only the DW9109 model can be used. This will accept batteries from 7.2 volt to 18 volt in size.

8) Does a Dewalt "15 minute" rapid charger give as much power as a 1 or 2 hour charger?

Yes. The 15 minute fast charger is an "intelligent" model that uses a three (3) stage process to top up each battery pack. This high tech unit measures each internal cell, balances them, and fills each cell up to it's maximum possible capacity.

9) Can the "15 minute" intelligent charger damage a battery beacuse of it's very fast charging?

No. Due to a patented termination system this unit will not damage or harm any battery used in it. This particular charger will allow you to care for your power tools battery and get the maximum service life from it.

10) If my Dewalt battery will not hold power or accept a new charge is it faulty?

Possibly. There are however several reasons why you may have this problem. If the pack has a broken connection inside, or a single internal or multiple cell has failed, the battery will be unuseable. Other options are the battery has been charged incorrectly or with a damaged / faulty battery charger. There could be dirt or an object preventing the contacts working. Finally, due to use and age it could of reached the end of it's normal service life.

How To Maintain Dewalt Ni Cd Batteries

Maintaining Dewalt Ni Cad Rechargeable Batteries

It is important to take care of the rechargeable battery packs that are supplied with any new Dewalt cordless tool.

Depending on the type and particular model number of Dewalt tool you have purchased you will have as standard either one, two, or three rechargeable batteries.

The only exception to this is if you have bought one of their tools that are currently available as a "naked" unboxed unit. By unboxed this refers to the cordless tool being supplied with no batteries, charger, carry case, or kitbox, being supplied as a "bare" unit in just a cardbox type carton.

The Dewalt range of rechargeable batteries for their cordless power tools range in voltage from 7.2v to 36v. The most popular being the 12v nicad battery, 14.4v nicd battery, and the 18v ni cd battery.

Over the last few years these different voltage batteries have also been manufactured with new direct replacements which have greater capacities. For example the most popular battery in the Dewalt cordless range; the 18v De9095 NiCd battery (capacity which is 2.0 aH) can be directly interchanged with the new alternative DE9096 2.4 aH capacity battery. The difference in capacity does not give the relevant powertool any more power, but a longer running time on a full charge. Eg: If you own a Dewalt DC988KA 18v cordless drill with a 2.0 aH battery fitted you may achieve 100 to 120 holes drilled into hard timber before the battery runs out. With a 2.4aH De9096 replacement battery fitted you may achieve 150 to 170 holes.

Once you have bought a new Dewalt cordless tool it makes sense to get the most out of in it's lifetime, including the units rechargeable batteries.

How To Maintain Dewalt NiCad Rechargeable Batteries

The solution to keeping the battery on your Dewalt cordless tool well maintained is to use the tool regularly and by doing so "cycle" it's rechargeable nicad battery pack.

The first thing to undertake with any new nicad Dewalt Battery is to charge it completely the very first time when you buy it. After manufacture all new rechargeable batteries are shipped in a discharged state with very low charge and power in them. The battery must therefore be fully charged before it's first use.

Using the correct charger for your particular nicad dewalt battery (unless you own one of the intelligent chargers) the battery pack should be left in a charging state until the indicator light shows the period of time is complete. The battery should then be fitted to the required drill or other cordless tool and used as needed.

The next stage is to use the tool until the battery shows the first sign of having no power. On a cordless drill this would be when the motor and chuck slows down to a very low speed. It should not be used to the point where the chuck and motor does not rotate at all.

At this point is when the battery is at it's optimum state to receive a new full recharge.

Placing the flat discharged battery into the charger will allow the charger unit to measure the amount of current needed to top up each cell within the batteries housing, and start the charging process over again.

This is the best way to maintain all Dewalt Nicad Batteries and get a good service life from them.

Hints And Tips To Extend The Life Of The Tools Battery

As mentioned above the best way to keep a rechargeable battery pack working at it's peak is to "cycle" it by discharging and recharging on an ongoing basis or schedule.

Other help you can do to extend it's life is by way of:

1) Storing it when not used at a normal room temperature. This should be in not a cold or hot environment.

2) Avoid dropping the battery whether fitted to a power tool or not.

3) Not leaving the battery in a medium to full charge capacity. On nicad batteries this can lead to "memory effect".

4) If stored off the relevant power tool keep the battery metal contacts away from any other metallic objects.

5) Use only a recognised original equipment Dewalt Battery Charger.