Metabo HPT DV18DBL2Q4
Great Product
Metabo HPT DV18DBL2Q4
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson
Last modified:
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Metabo HPT DV18DBL2Q4 Review Summary:
Although mains-lead free — it’s driven by 18 or 36-volt batteries (not included) — this hammer drill still knocks out a mighty 1205 in-lbs of torque, making it ideal for hardcore work such as driving bolts, drilling into metals and hardwoods, and removing stubborn and oxidized screws.
However, for jobs that require less grunt and more precision — this unit offers a choice of 22 torque settings — allowing you to tailor the power to suit your project and base material.
A top speed of 2100 rpm, combined with a robust 31500 bpm (blows per minute) on the hammer setting — ensures that stone, brick, and concrete drilling is both effortless and accurate.
Microchip-controlled technology consistently checks amp requirements and adjusts power delivery accordingly — elevating battery-operational time and extending the life of the internal parts. Furthermore, an incorporated LED lamp facilitates use in poorly illuminated conditions, while its 0.5-inch chuck will accommodate wide diameter bits.
This cordless hammer drill comes from the Metabo (previously Hitachi) stable — a company with over 70 years of power tool experience. The DV18DBL2Q4 supersedes the similar Hitachi DV18DBFL2S — boasting almost twice the torque of its predecessor.
Pros:
Cons:
Features and Benefits of the Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 HPT
However, there’s much more to this machine than longevity. Here are some of the stand-out features.
High Torque
When it comes to turning power, this unit is seriously contractor grade. Knocking out 1205 in-lbs of pure grunt, the DV18DBL2Q4 from Metabo will effortlessly drill into metals and hardwoods, tighten lag bolts, and allow the utilization of heavy-duty and wide diameter bits and mixing accessories.
However, with immense power comes great responsibility. Massive brawn can lead to overheating and risks to the user — by torquing itself out of your hands. Hence, it’s pleasing to see the manufacturer has included a couple of features to reduce these hazards.
Firstly, its proprietary brushless motor cuts back on friction — keeping temperatures low, protecting the crucial internal components and ensuring the drill remains cool to the touch. Secondly, patented Reactive Force Control (RFC) tech checks for overloading — terminating the chuck rotation to guarantee your safety and protecting the battery and motor.
22 Torque Settings
While the DV18DBL2Q4 has impressive torque — you don’t always want it cranked up to eleventy-stupid.
Therefore, I welcome the fact that this drill boasts 22 unique torque settings — allowing you to select the ideal amount of grunt for each application. Hence, for screwing into softwoods, step it down to prevent timber splitting, overdriving, and head stripping. And for drilling into masonry and metals, elevate the torque output.
Trigger Controlled Speed
The pro-grade DV18DBL2Q4 features an optical trigger switch — enabling you to increase the speed of the chuck rotation as you gently squeeze this lever.
Promising a more user-friendly response than its competitor’s triggers — it allows a high level of precision and accuracy. Furthermore, it’s built to last — with wear-resistant components protecting this frequently used feature, extending the longevity of the tool.
This trigger operation lets you increase the speed from zero through to 2100 rpm — permitting you to rapidly complete time-heavy jobs efficiently.
Hammer Action
When you have an impressive tool in your hands — you naturally want to get down and dirty with some serious hardcore action.
Boasting a hammer function, the Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 with its 31500 BPM (blows per minute) allows you to effortlessly drill into stone, brick, and concrete. However, should you be a hammering virgin — and feel nervous about this kind of deep and powerful penetration pounding — check out my guide on How to Use a Hammer Drill.
Incorporated LED Lamp
Extreme drilling can take you to some weird and wonderful places — many of which, like the loft, beneath the stairs, and inside cupboards can lack adequate illumination.
Hence, it’s pleasing to witness that the DV18DBL2Q4 Metabo incorporates an LED light — allowing you to work in poorly lit conditions without having to hold a torch between your teeth.
0.5-Inch Keyless Chuck
Bigger is always better — whether we’re talking about guns, cars, or your manhood.
And drill chucks are no different.
Leave the 0.25 and 0.375-inch sizes for girls and weekend casual home-improvers — the aspirational DIYer and trade user demands something much more beefy. The DV18DBL2Q4 possesses a 0.5-inch carbide chuck — enabling you to wield mammoth drill bits and plaster mixers.
Furthermore, being keyless, you can rapidly change accessories and forget the usual headache of trying to locate your chuck key.
Universal Metabo Battery Compatibility
This drill can be used with all Metabo (or Hitachi) 18 and 36-volt lithium-ion slide batteries.
Managed by proprietary microchip technology, the Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 precisely calculates current requirements and delivery from these power cells — extending running-time and increasing the life of the electrical components.
And, so you’re not surprised by the battery dying mid-project — this drill boasts an easy-to-read battery life indicator.
Metal Belt Hook
The DV18DBL2Q4 from Metabo is scarily robust — able to withstand hardcore, extreme use. But letting it slip from your hands at the top of your 60-foot ladder isn’t going to do it any good.
Hence, if your work involves high-level projects, you may welcome the incorporated metal belt hook — allowing you to safely store your gun and prevent accidental dropping.
Furthermore, walking around with this tool on your waist makes you look mean. A Magnum Desert Eagle is fine for those Texan boys — real men carry a cordless hammer drill with over 1000 inch-pounds of torque.
Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 Specifications
| Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.5 pounds (without battery) |
| Chuck | 0.5-inch keyless |
| Speed | 0-2100 rpm |
| BPM (blows per minute) | 31500 |
| Torque | 1205 in-lbs |
| Power | 18/36 volt lithium-ion slide |
| Clutch settings | 22 |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Hitachi DV18DBFL2S vs Metabo DV18DBL2Q4
Back in March 2016, Hitachi took over the respected German tool brand Metabowerke GmbH. Two years later, wishing to utilize this company’s esteemed reputation for reliable machines, the guys at Hitachi chose to give all its power tools the Metabo marque.
Some units, for example, the Hitachi D13VF, had nothing but a name change — becoming the Metabo HPT D13VF. Other machines, however, had an upgrade.
And this is the case for the Hitachi DV18DBFL2S. Instead of just a new moniker, the drill gained a torque upgrade — elevating the relatively modest 620 in-lbs to 1205 in-lbs — and receiving the new title, the Metabo DV18DBL2Q4. However, all other features of the DV18DBFL2S remained the same — including 22 clutch settings, 0.5-inch chuck, hammer action, LED light, and battery indicator.
What Users Say About The Metabo HPT DV18DBL2Q4
In my eyes, the DV18DBL2Q4 drill is a powerful unit for both the serious DIYer and pro-user.
However, in an effort not to be swayed by its mighty torque and cordless features — I decided to check out the views of owners, to see how this machine functions in day-to-day use.
Happily, the opinions expressed echoed my own.
Overall, users of the DV18DBL2Q4 gave the drill favorable write-ups. Frequently mentioned by these guys were the handy LED lamp, the user-customizable clutch speed, and the grunty 1205 in-lbs of torque.
To be fair, there were a couple of negative points raised by the owners. One DIYer berated Metabo for selling a drill that doesn’t include the battery or charger — while a pro-user found the trigger over-responsive, accelerating too rapidly with the smallest of squeezes.
However, all users admitted that this was one versatile and powerful machine that’s capable of handling the most heavy-duty of projects.
Alternatives
However, that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everyone — horses for courses, right?
Hence, if this machine isn’t setting your world alight, here are a few equally impressive alternative options.
Metabo DV18DBL2
The DV18DBL2 is the same machine — but instead of just the tool, it arrives with two 18-volt lithium-ion batteries and a charger. Meaning, you can operate this drill straight-outta-the box with no additional purchases.
- All the same high specs — 1205 in-lbs of torque, 31500 bpm, and 2100 rpm.
- Arrives complete with two 18-volt 6.0Ah cells — not included with the DV18DBL2Q4.
- Harder on the pocket than the DV18DBL2Q4.
Makita XPH07Z
The Makita XPH07Z has similar features to the Metabo — 0.5-inch chuck, 2100 rpm, and 1090 in-lbs of torque — but it’s lighter on your wallet. Also, bear in mind that, as with the Metabo, batteries aren’t included with this machine.
- Like the Metabo, the XPH07Z incorporates a brushless motor.
- Features a side handle accessory, also included with the DV18DBL2Q4.
- Slightly lower torque — 1090 in-lbs as opposed to the 1205 in-lbs of the Metabo.
Porter-Cable PCC620LB
The PCC620LB is similar to the DV18DBL2Q4 in that it shares cordless tech, a 0.5-inch chuck, LED light, and belt hook — but with a maximum of 1600 rpm and 27200 bpm — it’s less of a brutish animal, making it a little more attractive to hammer drill newbies.
- Incorporated magnets for bit storage — not a feature of the DV18DBL2Q4.
- Three-year warranty, as opposed to the lifetime guarantee of the Metabo.
- Harder on the bank balance than the Metabo — although it includes a battery pack.
Conclusion
Ideal for hardcore pro-level applications, the 1205 in-lbs of grunt combined with 31500 bpm and 2100 rpm makes the unit equally suited to fitting lag bolts that demand serious brawn as it is rapid screw driving.
Furthermore, this is one robust unit. Its brushless motor and proprietary Reactive Force Control elongate machine life, while also protecting the user. And, with a lifetime guarantee, you gain reassurance that this is a cordless hammer drill that’s a worthy investment.
Agreed, the lack of a battery and a charger is a downer — and the mighty grunt will be excessive for casual home users. But, if you demand freedom and power in one package — I suggest checking out the Metabo HPT DV18DBL2Q4.
Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 FAQs
Q: Is Metabo HPT a Good Brand?
Yes. Originally a respected German tool company trading as Metabowerke GmbH, it was purchased by the mighty Hitachi in 2016. Two years later, Hitachi decided to rename its power-tool lines with the Metabo moniker.
Possessing impressive warranties, a reputation for reliability, and fuelled by 70 years of power tool know-how — Metabo is a good brand for DIYers and pros who demand quality equipment.
Q: Is Metabo a Good Drill DV18DBL2Q4?
Undoubtedly. Knocking out 1205 in-lbs of torque, 31500 bpm, and 2100 rpm — while being driven by a lithium-ion power cell — the DV18DBL2Q4 is an impressive unit.
Q: Where Are Metabo Drills Manufactured?
Production of Metabo drills is split between Shanghai, China, and Nürtingen, Germany. The DV18DBL2Q4 is made in China.
Q: Where Can I Find a Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 Manual?
The official Metabo website hosts all the user guides for its power tools — including those previously sold under the Hitachi brand. For rapid access to the DV18DBL2Q4 Manual.
Q: Does the Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 Include Batteries?
No. The DV18DBL2Q4 is tool-only — arriving without batteries or charger. However, the Metabo DV18DBL2 product features an identical drill, but does come complete with power cells and a charging unit.
Q: What Size Is the Chuck for the DV18DBL2Q4?
The Metabo DV18DBL2Q4 comes with a carbide 0.5-inch keyless chuck.
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