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DEWALT DCH172N-XJ Hammer Drill Review: Compact power for masonry work?

DEWALT DCH172N-XJ 18V XR Brushless Compact 16mm SDS Plus Hammer Drill - Bare Unit
4.6
[Brushless 18V Motor]  18V brushless motor delivers long runtime and reduced maintenance.
[High Impact Performance]  1.4J impact energy, 0–4980 bpm and 0–1060 rpm for efficient concrete drilling.
[Lanyard Ready Safety]  Lanyard attachment points plus 8.8m/s² low vibration minimize fatigue and boost safety.
[Bright LED Light]  Bright white LED with delay enhances visibility in dim work areas.
[Ergonomic Lightweight Design]  Compact, lightweight ergonomics improve comfort during extended operating periods.
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A compact SDS-plus hammer drill aimed at tradespeople and keen DIYers, promising reliable masonry performance and low vibration. Ease of handling and reduced fatigue make long shifts more manageable with DEWALT DCH172N-XJ Hammer Drill. Is the balance of power, portability and durability right for your toolkit?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Drilling Performance: Powerful masonry drilling in a compact format
  • Best for: Tradespeople and DIYers needing one-handed masonry drilling
  • Not ideal for: Users expecting a kit with battery and charger included

Compact 18V brushless SDS-plus hammer drill built for anchors and fixing holes. Designed to cut operator fatigue with low vibration and ergonomic handling.


Reliable masonry drilling – with 1.4J impact energy and SDS Plus

A 1.4 joule impact energy rating, variable no-load speed up to 1060 rpm and up to 4980 bpm combine to break masonry and clear debris efficiently. SDS Plus compatibility accepts the common anchor and masonry bit range for site work.

Drills anchors and fixing holes into concrete, brick and masonry, covering a working range from 4mm to 16mm. Consistent punch-through makes repetitive anchor work faster and more predictable.

Extended runtime and lower upkeep – thanks to the 18V brushless motor

The 18V brushless motor reduces mechanical wear and improves power efficiency compared with brushed motors, helping deliver the extreme runtime noted in the specification. Fewer moving brush parts mean reduced routine maintenance.

Longer periods between maintenance and more usable time on site reduce interruptions. Suitable where sustained drilling performance matters over multiple jobs.

Comfort and control during long shifts – with Perform & Protect vibration control

Perform & Protect vibration management limits vibration to around 8.8 m/s², and the unit includes lanyard-ready attachment points plus a compact ergonomic form factor. A bright white LED with delay improves visibility in poorly lit spaces.

Lower vibration and a well-balanced, lightweight form reduce user fatigue and aid one-handed operation. Integrated LED and attachment points help maintain control and safety on ladders or awkward angles.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for DEWALT DCH172N-XJ Hammer Drill
  1. 18V Brushless Motor – Delivers longer runtime and reduced maintenance under heavy use
  2. 1.4J Impact Energy – Drills 4–16mm holes into concrete, brick and masonry reliably
  3. Perform & Protect Vibration Control – Reduces operator fatigue during extended drilling work periods
  4. Compact, Ergonomic Design – Enables one-handed control and precise speed handling in tight spaces
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Category: Home Improvement
  • Brand: DEWALT
  • Model: DCH172N-XJ
  • Power system: 18V XR
  • Motor: Brushless
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the hammer drill come with a battery and charger?

A: No, the unit is sold as a bare tool, so batteries and a charger are not included.

Q: What materials and hole sizes is it intended for?

A: Designed for drilling anchors and fixing holes into concrete, brick and masonry, with a working range from 4mm to 16mm.

Q: How does it reduce user fatigue during prolonged use?

A: Perform & Protect vibration control limits vibration to around 8.8 m/s² and the compact, ergonomic design plus lanyard-ready points improve comfort and handling for extended periods.

🏆 Our Verdict

Ideal for tradespeople and serious DIYers who need compact, reliable masonry drilling with low vibration. The combination of a brushless 18V motor, 1.4J impact energy and Perform & Protect vibration control makes it especially suited to repetitive anchor and fixing work. While the initial outlay for a bare unit requires investing in batteries, the reduced maintenance and durability deliver strong long-term value.