For anyone seeking a reliable and convenient drill for household tasks, the Black & Decker 18V Cordless Combi Hammer Drill is an appealing choice. Offering a balance of portability, power, and ease of use, this drill is ideal for a variety of home improvement jobs, from mounting shelves to installing light fixtures. While it may not be the most powerful drill available, it delivers excellent performance for most DIY tasks. This review covers the drill’s capabilities, benefits, and potential drawbacks based on hands-on experience.
The Black & Decker 18V Cordless Combi Hammer Drill is designed to handle general DIY tasks with ease. It offers flexibility through multiple torque settings and a hammer drill function, making it suitable for different materials, including wood, metal, and masonry.
One of the standout qualities of this drill is its lightweight design, making it easy to handle when working in awkward positions. Despite being cordless, it doesn’t feel cumbersome, allowing users to manoeuvre comfortably when drilling smaller holes or driving screws in tight spaces.
Since it’s battery-powered, there’s no need to worry about extension cables or being tethered to a power socket. This makes it particularly useful for outdoor tasks or jobs that require moving between different locations.
With variable speed control and two gear settings, this drill is well-suited for different applications. The higher speed works well for drilling into wood and metal, while the lower speed provides enhanced control when screwdriving. The 10-position torque setting helps prevent overtightening, making it an excellent choice for those new to power tools.
Equipped with a hammer action setting delivering 21,000 BPM, this drill performs admirably on masonry. For smaller holes, it works efficiently, particularly when paired with high-quality masonry bits. However, for larger holes (10mm or more) or tougher materials like red brick, the drill does require more effort, and users might find that bits occasionally get stuck.
✔ Portable and lightweight, making it comfortable to use for extended periods
✔ Cordless convenience, removing the need for power sockets and cables
✔ Two-speed gearbox for flexibility when working with different materials
✔ 10 torque settings for precise screwdriving
✔ Hammer drill function allows drilling into masonry and concrete
✔ Interchangeable battery system, compatible with other BLACK+DECKER 18V tools
✔ Quick and easy bit changes with the keyless chuck
✔ Affordable pricing for a reliable home DIY tool
✔ Includes a carry case for easy storage
✔ LED light enhances visibility in dimly lit work areas
While the drill performs well in most areas, one significant issue encountered was with the battery life. Upon first use, the battery was fully charged and managed to drill a few holes before being set aside for a few days. Unfortunately, when it was needed again, the battery had completely drained. Upon attempting to recharge, the charger indicated that the battery was defective.
A second battery was purchased, which worked without issue. Additionally, a replacement unit was ordered, and the faulty battery was refunded without any hassle. The new drill has been in use for over a week without any further problems.
This suggests that the defective battery was an isolated issue, though it does highlight the importance of checking the battery upon arrival.
This drill is perfect for general household tasks, including:
It also makes an excellent backup drill for those who already own a corded option but need something more portable for convenience.
While this drill has many positives, there are some aspects to consider before purchasing:
❌ Struggles with larger masonry jobs – While great for smaller holes in masonry, users attempting 10mm or larger holes in red brick may find the process slow and laborious. Breeze blocks and softer materials will be easier to handle.
❌ Initial battery issue – Some units may come with defective batteries. It's advisable to test the battery thoroughly upon arrival and consider having a spare on hand.
❌ Not brushless – Unlike high-end professional drills, this model uses a traditional motor, meaning it may not last as long as brushless counterparts under heavy use.
Overall, this drill has received positive reviews, particularly for its affordability and ease of use. Common praises include its lightweight design, suitability for general DIY tasks, and good battery life (once a functional battery is in place).
However, some users noted that it struggles with certain masonry applications, especially when drilling directly into dense bricks. For the best experience, using high-quality drill bits and drilling into mortar joints rather than bricks can improve performance.
For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for an affordable, versatile, and easy-to-use drill, the Black & Decker 18V Cordless Combi Hammer Drill is a solid investment. While not a high-powered professional tool, it meets the needs of most home improvement projects and delivers good performance at a reasonable price.
✅ DIYers looking for a general-purpose cordless drill
✅ Homeowners needing a tool for basic home repairs and improvements
✅ Those working with wood, plasterboard, or light masonry
✅ People who want a budget-friendly, lightweight, and easy-to-use drill
❌ Professionals requiring heavy-duty power tools
❌ Users drilling large holes in dense masonry regularly
❌ Those needing a brushless motor for extended durability
In conclusion, while it isn't the most powerful drill on the market, its value for money, convenience, and versatility make it an excellent addition to any home toolbox. If tackling everyday DIY tasks is the goal, this compact and capable drill won’t disappoint.