12/10/2011

Bosch 17618-01 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Brute Tough Litheon Hammer Drill/Driver with 2 Fat Batteries Review

Bosch 17618-01 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Brute Tough Litheon Hammer Drill/Driver with 2 Fat Batteries
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is a great go to drill for concrete, stone and light structural steel. I haven't used it on anything heaver than a small I beam but it did 1/2" holes just fine with a good bit. This is a good all around replacement for a 3/4" HD drill or even a 1" in some cases. The trigger pull is nice and makes slow starts easy. The side handle is friction fit so it can be anywhere except directly in front of the trigger (you can put it there but it interferes with the trigger and visa versa). This is a viable replacement for a ¾" drive drill (my old Craftsman finally gave out) and it does a better job on concrete and stone. If you are looking for something that does 1" or larger holes this is not it (well occasional 1"); but for more mundane work its just fine. The case is well made and the keyless chuck works just fine. Great warrantee.
Now the down side (not much):
Its large and heavy, not quite as big as my old sears ¾" but weighs a little more with the battery.
Handle all ready mentioned.
The case is well made but not well designed. It only holds a few loose bits (small) and stubby driver bits that need a magnetic bit attachment. Plenty of room for a better arrangement or even provision for one of Bosch's driver bit kits.
Battery life? In my use I can't drill enough in heavy materials any more that the second battery isn't recharged. But this may be an issue in hot environments or if you leave the batteries in direct sun light (I work mostly above 10,000'). A friend who does a lot of engineered stone cabinet work (he's 24 and 6'4" large for his size) wound up buying a 3rd battery but he's happy now.
A couple real nits. There is no index on the clutch, given the overall fit an finish (made in Switzerland not China) it's a surprise. The manual says there is a bit compartment in the handle--a couple of rubber extrusions which can hold a driver bit is not a compartment!
BTW the serial number is on the handle under the battery.


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Combining brute strength, a compact design, and high-performance Litheon batteries, the Bosch 17618-01 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Tough Litheon Hammer Drill/Driver with Two Fat Pack batteries gives big power in a small package. Innovative engineering makes this drill/driver one of Bosch's "Best Built" lithium-ion tools, great for a variety of jobs, including drilling/driving in concrete, stone, and light structural steel.
With an ergonomic design, you'll stay comfortable on even the longest jobs. View larger.18-Volt Litheon Batteries for Maximum Runtime and ManageabilityThe 17618-01 utilizes state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery technology and Bosch's proprietary ECP (Electronic Cell Protection) system to provide maximum cycle life, minimum self-discharge, and no memory-effect. Best of all, this battery will fully charge in 30 minutes and will be at 85% capacity in just 15 minutes.
It also offers the highest BPM in its category--over 30,000. And up to one pound lighter than comparable 18-volt NiCad drills/drivers, the 17618-01 won't weigh you down.
Unique, Flexible Power SystemLike all tools in Bosch's 18-Volt line, the 17618-01 can be used with either a 1.3-Ah BAT609 Slim Pack battery or a 2.6-Ah BAT318 Fat Pack (two included). If you're looking for a lighter-weight option, the Slim Pack is the perfect choice. If longer runtime is what you need, the Fat Pack will do the job. Bosch is the only power tool manufacturer that provides this option.
Fast Speeds, High Torque, and Durable Construction for Reliable ResultsThe 17618-01 works at speeds up to 2,050 RPM and provides 650 in./lbs. of torque. Durashield housing, unibody construction, and a steel-reinforced collar help you withstand real-world conditions, like temperature extremes, rain, dirt, debris, and drops.
The 17618-01's Durashield Housing is constructed with ABS/Nylon composite, which makes the housing flexible and impenetrable. Unlike competitive tools, which use a conventional plastic housing, Durashield will not crack and can easily withstand 10-foot drops.
This tool also features unique unibody construction with three steel straps that keep the motor, gears, and clutch together. This ensures that the gears never separate from the motor, and it keeps the drill functioning even after drops.
Additionally, the 17618-01 boasts an exclusive steel-reinforced collar that protects the nose of the drill. It provides extra reinforcement in the event of drops on the chuck and prevents the chuck from bending or breaking off.
Easy Bit Changes and Balanced Design for Utmost ControlThe 17618-01 comes complete with a single-sleeve 1/2-inch metal for chuck optimum durability and one-handed bit changes, as well as increased drill-bit capacity for versatility. And for maximum control, comfort, and balance, the tool boasts a newly designed handle-grip with finger support.
25 Clutch Settings for Optimum PrecisionTo ensure precise results, the 37618-01 provides 25 clutch settings--the highest number of settings available on any model that's currently on the market. Settings 1-20 are perfectly suited for driving small screws; settings 21-25 provide the right amount of power for large screws and large drill bits, such as auger bits or self-feed bits. To choose the correct speed, simply use the variable-speed trigger and enjoy consistent, controlled operation.
Smart Features for Easy UseTo keep operation smooth and to help you stay fatigue-free, the 17618-01's ergonomic design and two-tone, soft-grip handle provide optimum comfort and control--even during all-day jobs. And for even greater convenience, LEDs provide illumination when you are working in dark or enclosed areas.
ProVantage GuaranteeThe 17618-01 comes with the ProVantage three-year protection plan, which guarantees two years of battery protection and one year of tool protection. Under this plan, you can receive two years of free battery replacements, tool replacement for one year, and a free tool repair package for the second and third years.
What's in the BoxDrill/Driver; two Litheon Fat Packs, 30-minute charger; side handle; magnetic bit holder; and case.


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