All the low-end torque of DeWalt's heaviest-geared corded drill, without hunting for a chuck key on the floor of the van.

Triple gear reduction brings the 7.8A motor down to 0–600 RPM and turns that speed into pulling power. It's the gearing you want for holes measured in inches: 4" hole saws in wood, 2-9/16" self-feed bits, 2-3/4" hole saws through steel. Drills geared for RPM stall on that work; this one keeps turning. Spreading the reduction across three stages also takes stress off the gear teeth, which is why the drivetrain outlasts lighter tools on the same abuse.

The Jacobs single-sleeve keyless chuck with spindle lock is the whole reason to pick this over the keyed DW245. Lock the spindle, twist the sleeve, bit's out — one-handed, no key, nothing to lose. If you're switching between a hole saw and a pilot bit repeatedly through a day of rough-in, that adds up. Bit retention is strong enough for this tool's torque, though a keyed chuck still has the edge on very large shanks under sustained load.

Underneath is the same durable build: helical-cut, heat-treated steel gears running in a metal gear housing that survives being the drill everyone borrows.

At this torque the 360° side handle is required equipment. When a big bit grabs, the handle is what keeps the drill from twisting out of your hands — set it wherever the cut demands. The rubber grip and two-finger trigger spread pressure across your hand through the long, slow pulls low-RPM work involves.

Built for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC installers boring through framing.