Skil PWRCore 12V Brushless Drill Keeps Performance Intact While Reducing Size
The compact size and lightweight design are the primary draws of 12V power tools. However, Skil has taken it up a notch with their new 12V cordless drill series. Let’s delve into the Skil PWRCore 12V 2-Speed Brushless Cordless Drill and Hammer Drill to understand how they have evolved from their predecessors.
Performance of the Skil PWRCore 12V Brushless Drill
In terms of performance, the Skil PWRCore 12V Brushless Drill remains unchanged from the previous model. These drills feature a brushless motor that delivers speeds of up to 450 RPM in low gear and 1,700 RPM in high gear. With a torque capability of up to 350 in-lbs, they provide ample power for most household drilling and driving tasks.
For those who require percussion drilling, the Skil drill offers a low speed of 6,750 BPM and a high speed of 25,500 BPM for concrete and masonry applications.
So, what does this mean for real-world performance?
With such impressive capabilities, these drills handle screwing and drilling tasks effortlessly. They exhibit confidence while working with twist drill bits of various sizes.
In the interest of thorough testing, we experimented with different types of drill bits. We discovered that a 1″ spade bit or auger bit is approximately the same size as the Skil drill. We successfully drilled with a 1 1/2″ self-feed drill bit, but it did push the drill to its limits. If you require more power, consider Skil’s full-size models for optimal performance.
Skil PWRCore 12V Brushless Drill Design
Enhanced Ergonomics
The most noticeable change in these drills is their reduced size. The drill itself measures 6.06 inches in length, while the hammer drill comes in at 6.54 inches. That’s nearly a full inch shorter than their predecessors!
The weight has also slightly decreased, with the drill weighing 1.9 pounds and the hammer drill weighing 2.1 pounds. Despite their compactness, these drills feel incredibly comfortable in the hand. The slightly angled handle allows for a more favorable working angle during usage.
Additional Features
The Skil PWRCore 12V drills come with a range of convenient features, including:
- LED lights
- Double-sided belt hook
- Ratcheting 1/2″ chuck
- 17 clutch settings
- Tether ready
- Bit holder on the rear of the foot
- Compatibility with all Skil PWRCore 12 batteries
Quick Comparison: Skil 12V Brushless Drill vs. Hammer Drill
Let’s compare the two offerings from Skil’s 12V Brushless Drill series:
Specification | Skil HD5290A-10 (Earlier) | Skil HD6290A-10 (Next Generation) |
---|---|---|
No-load speed | 450/1700 RPM | 450/1700 RPM |
Hammer rate | 6750/25500 BPM | 6750/25500 BPM |
Maximum torque | 350 in-lbs | 350 in-lbs |
Bare weight | 2.4 lbs | 2.1 lbs |
Length | 7.40 inches | 6.54 inches |
These Skil 12V drills come with an attractive price tag. The drill driver kit is priced at $69.99, while the hammer drill kit is available for just $99.00! Both kits include a 12V 2.0Ah battery, an upgraded PWRJump charger, and a generous 5-year warranty. Moreover, the batteries feature a USB-A port, enabling them to double as portable power sources for your devices.
The Bottom Line
As mentioned earlier, the standout feature of these drills is their significant reduction in size without compromising performance. And let’s not forget the unbeatable value they offer. A compact brushless drill kit for under $100, coupled with an excellent warranty? Count us in!
In summary, these drills are an excellent choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, providing more fun compared to other brands in the market. Professionals seeking a reliable, compact drill for light work can also benefit from the hammer drill variant.
Specification:
- Model: SKIL DL6290A-00 (electric drill), HD6290A-00 (electric hammer)
- Power: Skil PWRCore 12V battery
- No-load speed: 0-450/1,700
- Strike rate (hammer drill only): 0-6,750/25,500 BPM
- Chuck: 1/2 in.
- Maximum Torque: 350 in-lbs.
- Length: 6.06″ (Drill), 6.54″ (Hammer Drill)
- Weight: 1.90 lbs. (drill), 2.01 lbs. (hammer drill)
- Warranty: 5 years
- Price: $69.99 (Drill), $99.00 (Hammer Drill)