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Chuck size, clutch, brushless and weight: the smaller specs that matter
Updated
After tool type and battery, four smaller specs decide how a drill feels: the chuck size, the clutch, the motor type and the weight in your hand. Here is what each one means and where each pick stands.
| Kit | Chuck | Brushless | Weight note |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCD771C2 | 1/2 in | No | 3.64 lb listed |
| Makita XFD131 | 1/2 in | Yes | 3.6 lb with battery per Makita. Listing shows 7.25 lb |
| BOSCH PS31-2A | 3/8 in | No | 1.8 lb tool weight per Bosch. Listing item weight is 3 lb |
| DEWALT DCD777D1 | 1/2 in | Yes | 5.07 lb item weight listed |
| BLACK+DECKER LD120VA | 3/8 in | No | 3.9 lb listed |
| CRAFTSMAN CMCD711C2 | 1/2 in | No | 5.42 lb item weight listed |
Chuck size
The chuck size is the largest bit shank the jaws can grip. Most twist bits up to 3/8 inch and all hex driver bits fit a 3/8 inch chuck. Larger hole saws, big spade bits and some masonry bits have a 1/2 inch shank and need a 1/2 inch chuck. The BOSCH and the BLACK+DECKER are 3/8 inch. The rest are 1/2 inch.
Clutch settings
The numbered ring behind the chuck sets how much twist the drill gives before it slips and clicks. Low numbers for small screws and soft wood, high numbers for bigger screws, and the drill symbol for drilling with no slip. The count varies: 20+1 on the BOSCH, 21 on the Makita, 24 on the BLACK+DECKER. More positions mean finer steps, not more power.
Brushed vs brushless
A brushed motor passes current through carbon brushes that rub on the spinning part. A brushless motor switches the current with electronics instead. DEWALT claims its brushless motor in the DCD777D1 delivers more run time than brushed. Makita calls the motor in the XFD131 Makita-built brushless. For a homeowner, brushless mostly means more work per charge. A brushed drill like the DCD771C2 still handles home jobs.
Weight: tool or whole kit?
The "item weight" on a listing is often the weight of everything in the box. The Makita shows it clearly. Amazon lists 7.25 pounds, while Makita's own page says the drill weighs 3.6 pounds with its battery. Bosch says the PS31 tool weighs 1.8 pounds, while the listing's item weight is 3 pounds. When weight matters to you, look for the maker's "with battery" number.
Match a kit to your jobs with the drill kit checker, or compare all seven picks on the roundup page.