Metabo HPT D13VF
Great Product
Metabo HPT D13VF
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson
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- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Metabo HPT D13VF Review
Finding a rapid-driver and torquey-drill in one unit can seem an impossible task — but not with the Metabo HPT D13VF.
This impressive unit can rotate at up to 850 rpm, making relatively light work of wood drilling and screw driving — crucial if you’re working on expansive projects. In addition, its mighty 416.6 in-lbs of torque can bore through dense hardwoods and thick metals while providing precise control.
Boasting a 0.5-inch keyed chuck — capable of gripping the beefiest of bits — it’s compatible with the majority of paint, plaster, and cement mixer accessories. Furthermore, the previously mentioned brawny motor will power through these dense fluids without clogging or overheating the internal components.
Double-reduction gears, cast in an aluminum housing, offer reassuring reliability. Not just providing a lightweight yet durable build — it also ensures that internal temperatures are kept to a minimum, extending longevity.
This machine hails from Metabo, a brand now under the mighty Hitachi umbrella. Backed by over a century of experience — and reinforced by the unit’s five-year warranty — you’re assured peace of mind.
If you’re an experienced DIYer, this machine may look quite familiar. The HPT D13VF replaces the Hitachi D13VF drill — with none of the specifications changed apart from the branding.
Pros:
Cons:
Features and Benefits of the Metabo D13VF
Here are its impressive features:
High Torque
Knocking out 416.6 In-lbs (inch-pounds) — that’s over 47 Nm (Newton-meters) — of torque, it’s one grunty unit. This makes light work of boring into dense hardwoods and metals and allows you to use the drill for mixing paint, plasters, and concrete — with a suitable attachment.
Controllable through an easy-pull trigger, you can drop the torque and increase the speed up to a maximum of 850 rpm — or alternatively step back the speed but crank up the torque to the max for heavy-duty applications.
The Metabo D13VF achieves this through its double reduction gears (basically, the speed is reduced twice, elevating the torque — here’s the science) which cuts back on excessive gear strain, elevating the lifespan of the drill.
Form-Fit Palm Grip
It’s rewarding to feel a seriously powerful tool in your hand, but less appealing if it’s harder to wield than a sackful of angry cats.
Hence, it’s pleasing to see that the D13VF features a form-fit palm grip — ergonomically designed to sit effortlessly in your hand, cutting back on vibration, elevating control, and reducing the onset of fatigue — crucial if you’re tackling larger projects.
Furthermore, this drill incorporates a substantial side handle — permitting you to use your free hand to increase stability on jobs where accuracy is key. And, being removable, you can take off this user-aid for more slimline use when not required.
Aluminum Gear Housing
Drills take some serious punishment — constantly driving into tough materials takes its toll on the internal components. Therefore, I was impressed to see that the HPTD13VF boasts a pro-grade cast-aluminum gear housing.
This combination of build, lightweight metal, and robust casting adds reassuring durability for both the ardent DIYer and trade contractor. Additionally, designed for high-level heat dissipation, the chances of overheating are minimized — elongating the lifespan of the drill.
0.5-Inch Chuck
Forget the quarter-inch and ⅜ -inch chucks. Sure, they’re fine for the casual DIYer wanting to hang a picture of his auntie Mabel — but no use for the pro-user or hardcore home improver.
The 0.5-inch chuck of the HPTD13 VF will accommodate the beefiest of bits and stirrers — ideal for the serious driller. Furthermore, being keyed, you have the reassurance of the tightest clamp possible — well until you lose the chuck key like every other drill-user on the planet. I advise keeping a couple of spares in your toolbox.
Substantial Reverse Switch
User-friendliness is at the heart of the Metabo HPT D13VF. The reversible switch — crucial for removing screws and damage-free backing out — is conveniently located on the upper section of the drill handle. This permits fuss-free thumb operation without having to adjust your grip.
Furthermore, being oversized, there’s no fumbling around trying to locate this controller — saving you both frustration and downtime.
Trigger Lock
Extensive drilling can lead to finger fatigue — despite the easy-pull two-digit trigger operation of this machine. Hence, it’s pleasing to witness that the D13VF from Metabo incorporates a trigger-lock — allowing you to drill away without having to constantly apply pressure.
Belt Hook
Undoubtedly, the Metabo D13VF is an impressively robust machine — but it isn’t indestructible. Throwing this machine off the top of a ladder isn’t going to do it any good — leading your project to be curtailed, overwhelming disappointment, and the cost of a new driver.
Thankfully, for the more clumsy amongst us (if you’ve never dropped a tool while working at second-story height — you’re not a true DIYer), this drill features a belt hook. Not only does this allow you to store your weapon like a veritable John Wick in between jobs — but also allows for added security when completing high-level work.
Metabo D13VF Specifications
| Metabo D13VF | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4.6 pounds |
| Chuck | 0.5-inch keyed |
| Speed | 0-850 rpm |
| Current | 9.0 amps |
| Torque | 416.6 in-lbs |
| Power | 120-volts |
| Electric Brake | Yes |
| Warranty | Five years |
Hitachi D13VF vs Metabo HPT D13VF
In short, it’s exactly the same power tool.
In March 2016, Hitachi purchased the esteemed German power-tool manufacturer, Metabowerke GmbH. Wanting to draw on this brand’s high reputation for producing professional-grade tools, the shirts and suits at Hitachi decided to brand all its power tool lines with the esteemed Moniker — Metabo.
Under this marque, it manufactures a plethora of machines, including compressors, grinders, nailers, saws, and naturally, drills.
When this transference occurred, many of the popular and user-favored units simply gained a new decal — stating Metabo instead of Hitachi. And, the D13VF is one of those.
Although now old stock, you can still purchase the Hitachi-branded D13VF online — often at a more budget-friendly price than its identical Metabo counterpart.
What Do Users Say?
In my opinion, this powerful machine is ideal for both hardcore DIYers and trade pros looking to both address tough materials with ease while having the finesse to tighten and loosen bolts and screws.
However, just because I appreciate this drill doesn’t mean the rest of the power-driving fraternity shares my feelings. Hence, for a totally impartial Metabo D13VF review, I delved into the online opinions of users of the D13 VF — to see how this unit functions in the real world.
Reassuringly, the views expressed were positive and in line with my own thoughts.
Users of the Metabo praised its impressive torque, especially in hardwood drilling situations. Furthermore, they lauded the in-hand fatigue-busting comfort and welcomed the rapid 850 rpm maximum speed.
That said, there were a couple of naysayers.
One guy criticized the fact that the side-handle could only be affixed at 90-degrees, which he considered awkward for long-term operation. And another DIYer moaned that the lack of an LED illumination light was a serious downer — expecting that a high-end unit should have this additional feature.
However, in all circumstances, all owners of this machine agreed that it was a robust and durable drill capable of heavy-use work.
Alternatives
If your power-driving juices aren’t flowing while reading this review, or you feel it isn’t quite what you need from your machine, don’t despair. I’ve collated some credible alternatives below that hopefully may stimulate your drilling appetite.
Like the HPT D13VF, the 6335-02 boasts a generous 0.5-inch chuck, variable speed trigger, and two-finger operation. However, its front-mounted secondary grip is adjustable through 360-degrees, offering greater user versatility than the Metabo.
- Easier on the pocket than the HPT D13 VF.
- Includes a bubble-level for precise operation — not a feature of the Metabo.
- Greater maximum speed — 950 rpm as opposed to 850 rpm of the D13VF.
The DWD112 knocks out a remarkable 2500 rpm — three times greater than the Metabo. Thus making it an excellent machine for softwood drilling and driving, where time is a crucial factor — although admittedly, this means it loses out on torque grunt.
- Smaller chuck — DIY-grade ⅜-inch as opposed to 0.5-inch.
- Lacks a secondary handle, unlike the D13VF.
- Complete with a carry case — not included with the Metabo.
While lacking the torque of the Metabo, the BDEDMT matrix offers a rapid 1200 rpm, higher than that provided by the D13VF. Furthermore, it boasts an eleven-speed clutch to prevent screw stripping — a feature not included in the Metabo model.
- Substantially easier on the bank balance than the D13VF HPT.
- More of a driver than the high torque Metabo drilling unit.
- ⅜-inch clutch as opposed to the 0.5-inch of the D13 VF Metabo.
Conclusion
With 416.6 In-lbs of pure brawn, it’s a unit that should satisfy the most demanding of extreme home or contractor drill users. Furthermore, its 0.5-inch chuck not only will accommodate the largest of bits — but will also facilitate accessories such as plaster and concrete mixers.
Sure, the trade-grade nature may be overkill for the casual user, who may be better suited to the Black & Decker Matrix instead. But for those guys who want a one-stop machine that will provide years of use — I suggest checking out the Metabo HPT D13VF.
Metabo HPTD13VF Drill FAQs
Q: Is Metabo HPT a Good Brand?
Metabo is the tool-marque for the industrial behemoth Hitachi. In 2018, Hitachi decided to rebrand its power tools in an effort to separate the category from its other spheres of interest.
With extensive warranties, impressive reliability, and backed by 70 years of experience — Metabo is an excellent brand.
Q: Is Metabo a Good Drill HPT D13VF?
Yes! Offering trigger-controllable speeds up to 850 rpm, and a brutish 416.6 of torque — the HPTD13VF is an excellent machine for the keen DIYer and trade-pro.
Q: Where Are Metabo HPT Tools Made?
Both Nürtingen, Germany, and Shanghai, China share the production of Metabo tools. The HPT D13VF is manufactured in the Chinese factory.
Q: Is Metabo Better than Bosch?
With a proud history of German engineering — both Bosch and Metabo have a reputation for producing pro-level drills that are renowned for their reliability. For an in-depth comparison, check out my Bosch vs Metabo face-off.
Q: Is the Metabo HPT D13VF Cordless?
No. The HPTD13VF from Metabo runs off 120-volts and has a six-foot mains cord. If you’re chasing a cordless drill, check out my picks of the best battery-driven drills.
Q: Where Can I Find a Metabo HPTD13VF Manual?
The official Metabo website has downloadable instructions for all its tool lines. However, for ease of access, you can rapidly get to the HPT D13VF manual here.
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