I had been using an impact drill to drill through a brick wall (8 inches thick) to install a metal gate. This hammer drill made it so much easier to work with as it took a couple hours for each hole (we had to drill a total of 8). The grip in front makes it easier to drill through the hole and there are two settings to choose from. The first one sets the drill speed at a lower speed so you can mark your hole. The second setting is much faster.Overall, very effective tool for DIY projects and I highly recommend this product from Dewalt!I bought this drill for tough job, such continuous heavy torque drilling that I accepted I may "use it up" in the process. That job was successfully completed and there have been many others since - and its still running smoothly. This unit tends to get hot when working under load but never to the point of producing a burning smell. I use another cordless for most general purpose drilling but each time I pull out the DeWalt I seem to be more impressed by its design, power, and durability.I bought this despite the bad reviews because I needed a 2 speed drill and this was the only one I could afford and confirm from the DeWalt that they would provide 3 years warranty even thought I bought it on amazon. So far I drilled 50 5/8 holes on metal mostly steel truck frames and some aluminum, so far so good, I broke a 5/8 cobalt drill bit but my drill is still going, it does get hot when used in low speed but seems like not a big deal. I know some people expect their tools to be indestructible when they pay more than $50 but that is no truth, I buy Chinese tools if I rarely need to use it and it lasts long enough when used with care without the abuse but when you buy quality tool and use the same care it will out last you, I know that much...This product made my crawl space encapsulation project a breeze. Used a masonry bit to drill the holes for the anchors used to attach the encapsulating material to the foundation walls. The drills hammer function worked quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend this drill!We run 3 of exactly the DW505 model for several years. First, I got one for our workshop. Then, 2 Co-Workers bought for the same model for themselves, after using our Drill.This is - I think - the only 2-speed reversible hammer drill without clutch. With a 13mm chuck.I have read about issues with the gearbox, I have read that some people just don't like compound fiber gear boxes (The Boeing 787 is made of compound fiber reinforced resin).I can *NOT* confirm any of the fatal reviews here. This is a reliable hammer drill with lots of power and a proven track record for me and our crew.And I'm here today to get another one.Buen productoDewalt tools as usual, good quality, lots of power. Like I said I purchased it used, still works great. Dewalt.I bough this Hammer/Drill combo in replacement of another 1/2" and with the Dewalt DW505 I strongly believe I made a good choice.
