DeWalt DW120K Review
Great Product
DeWalt DW120K Review
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson Last modified:- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Review Summary

Features and Benefits of the DeWalt DW 120K
Build
The fact that this model was the real deal was noticeable right out of the box. It sported a highly durable build quality, having a housing made from heavy-duty die-cast metal that protected the unit’s vital parts from damage. Yet, its 9.75 pounds of weight made it something of a hefty machine — an issue that would induce fatigue on more time-consuming projects.
Power
The DW120K came with a seven amp motor that used three different speed settings – 400, 600, and 900 (max) rpm — allowing you to utilize the appropriate speed for the task at hand, making the drill incredibly versatile. The triple gear reduction was there to reduce the gear stress and provide increased torque, allowing one to use this unit even for hardcore drilling jobs.
Auxiliary Handle
Even though it weighed close to 10 pounds, handling the DW120K was a breeze thanks to the presence of a five-position auxiliary handle. It allowed you to cater your grip to the most comfortable position for the particular application. Whether you were drilling through subfloors or studs, you could simply adjust the handle and move comfortably and quickly through the work. The model sported a forward & reverse switch right above the trigger. Using it was seamless, as you could easily access it with either the pointer finger or the thumb.
Accessories & Warranty

DeWalt DW120K | |
---|---|
Weight | 9.75 pounds |
Chuck | 0.5-inch keyed |
Speed | 400/600/900 rpm |
Cord Length | Eight feet |
Voltage | 120V AC |
Motor | 7.0 Amp |
Number of Speed Settings | 3 |
Warranty | Three years |
What Do Users Say?
Although no longer in production, the DeWalt 120K DW still maintains a loyal following amongst trade users — a testament to its durability and reliability.
Users deem the DeWalt DW120K as an “ideal tool for a lot of jobs around the house.” It received universal acclaim from both the professional contractors and DIY hobbyists, as it sported enough flexibility to be used by both of these groups.
Consumers were pleased with the drill’s build quality and excellent performance, as well as with the included accessories and the three-year warranty.
Admittedly, some guys were unimpressed, feeling that the three speed settings were restrictive, with many comparable units currently on the market — such as the Makita DA3010F — offering a full variable speed option.
That said, for hardcore drilling with multi-angle versatility, the DW120K remains a resilient, albeit discontinued, drill that stands up to extensive use.
Alternatives
As the DW120K is no longer available — unless you purchase a second-hand machine — I have sourced some highly creditable alternative machines.
- Lacks the auxiliary handle of the DW120K.
- Incorporates an LED lamp — not a feature of the DeWalt.
- Significantly lighter than the DW120 — 3.5 pounds as opposed to 9.75 pounds.
- Slower maximum speed — 750 rpm compared to the 900 rpm of the DeWalt.
- Like the DW 120K — it arrives with a carrying case.
- Features a 360-degree swivel head — identical to the DeWalt.
- Smaller chuck — 0.375 inches as opposed to the 0.5-inch of the DeWalt.
- More rapid — maximum 1300 rpm compared to the 900 rpm of the DW120K.
- Longer warranty — five years in contrast with three years of the DeWalt.
Conclusion
With 7.0 amps of power, an industrial-grade 0.5-inch chuck, and an auxiliary handle — the now discontinued DW120 K was a robust machine ideal for trade users tackling heavy-duty projects.
Its robust metal gear housing provided impressive longevity — while its 360-degree rotating head permitted impressive operational freedom. And, with many satisfied owners still using this machine — it illustrates that this was a serious unit built to last.
However, all good things come to an end.
So, if you’re looking for a unit worthy of the strength and build quality of the DeWalt DW 120K — I suggest checking out the equally creditable Makita DA3010F instead.
DeWalt DW 120 K Right Angle Drill FAQs
Q: Where Can I Buy the DW120K?
Unfortunately, this corded right-angle drill has now been discontinued. For an equally robust and trade-grade unit, I suggest checking out the Makita DA3010F.
Q: Where Can I Find A DeWalt DW 120 K Manual?
Although this drill is no longer available, you can access the user guide for the DW120K by clicking here.
Q: Is the DW120K Cordless?
No. The DW 120K right-angled drill from DeWalt was powered by an eight-foot mains cable.
Q: Where Can I Find DeWalt 120K Parts?
Although no longer in production, DeWalt still provides some replacement components for the DW120K drill. To identify the part you need, check out this exploded diagram.