Dewalt 20V Cordless Impact Driver model DCF885B Review
Multi-Year Review
Hi Everyone and welcome to my review of the Dewalt 20V Cordless Impact Driver model DCF885B.
I have been using this Dewalt DCF885B for many years and have put it through its paces as you can see by the wear in the photos. This was my first impact driver purchase that I still use it to this day. If you're looking for a dependable impact driver, this is a great tool for the price.
Overall, the DCF885B impact driver has been used a lot and very reliable. If you're unfamiliar with their model numbers, Dewalt currently has 3 different impact drivers that they sell as of this writing, with this one being the base model.
Here's the breakdown:
Pros:
- Price
- Reliable and rugged
- Ergonomic and comfortable to use
- Dewalt battery ecosystem
Cons:
- Brushed motor not as efficient compared to more expensive brushed motors
- Single speed setting
SPECS and Tech Details
The DCF885B is the base model of Dewalts impact driver lineup:
| Model Number | DCF888B | DCF887B | DCF885B |
| Battery Type | 20 Volt Lithium Ion | 20 Volt Lithium Ion | 20 Volt Lithium Ion |
| Speed Settings | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| Motor type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushed |
| MAX Torque | 1825 in-lbs (152.1 ft-lb) | 1825 in-lbs (152.1 ft-lb) | 1400 in-lbs (116.7 ft-lb) |
| Torque (IN-LBS) | 0-240/ 1,500/1,825 in-lbs | 0-240/ 1,500/1,825 in-lbs | 117 ft-lbs |
| Load Speed | 0-1,000/ 2,800/ 3,250 rpm | 0-1,000/ 2,800/ 3,250 rpm | 0 - 2,800 rpm |
| Impacts/minute | 0 - 3,800 ipm | 0 - 3,800 ipm | 0 - 3,200 ipm |
| Chuck Type | 1/4" Quick Release HEX Shank | 1/4" Quick Release HEX Shank | 1/4" Quick Release HEX Shank |
| Tool Dimensions | 5.3 in | 5.3 in | 5.55 in |
| Tool Weight | 2.0 lbs | 2.0 lbs | 2.0 lbs |
| Variable Speed Trigger | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Up to 100 ft | No | No |
Brushed Motor
The DCF885B uses a brushed motor setup. There are two types of motors in the cordless tool arena which are brushless and brushed motors. Essentially the brushed motors use carbon brushes which generate friction and don't produce as much power as the more expensive brushless variety. Brushed motors have been used for years and are very reliable and economical. A brushless motor uses magnets which produces less friction and heat allowing for higher performance. The downside of brushless is the increased cost as it uses additional circuitry and sensors.
I've used this impact driver for many years putting it through its paces with a new deck install, screwing down lots of tongue and groove subflooring to eliminate squeaks, window installations, and so on. This tools has been a model for reliability. If you're looking to purchase this impact driver for home improvement and other projects without breaking the bank, this is the one to get.
Speed Settings, RPM, and Torque
The DCF885B comes with a single speed setting with a variable trigger so you can adjust to your screwing needs. The different speed settings which limit torque and speed on the more expensive models are nice as they may allow more fine tuned use for the lowest setting, but is not needed for the vast majority of work that the impact driver will be performing. Using the variable speed trigger allows the user to vary the speed. Using this for delicate tasks such as finish screwing is best left for a screw gun or a drill/driver.
The Batteries: What Size for Me?
Dewalt uses their 20V Lithium Ion battery system for all their cordless tools. If you already own another Dewalt tool with with these style batteries, the DCF885B would be a fantastic choice.
How you plan on using the tools will determine what size batteries you need. First, I would recommend having no less than 2 batteries so one can be charging if you run out of juice (the charger is typically provided when you buy one of the combo kits shown below). Second, determine how you expect to use the tools. If you're completing infrequent small projects from time to time, the 1.5 Ah batteries may be sufficient for these tasks. On the other hand, you frequent larger renovations like installing decks, using a larger capacity battery like a 5Ah might be more suitable. Just make sure the batteries have the power button on them so you can see how much juice you have left!
Storage in cold weather: I keep my batteries with the tools in an uninsulated garage (built in 1880). The batteries don't have any noticeable drain when stored for a given time period.
Other Features
LED's: are super bright for lighting up the work area
Chuck Type: Uses a 1/4" hex shank for all the drill bits and accessories that are compatible with them (which are many). You can even get drill bits with this 1/4" hex shank which eliminates having to hunt for your drill driver. I choose this tool over the drill driver every time. Removing the bits can be done one handed by pulling the sleeve and the bit will pop out the same way the DCF887 works.
Here's a video showing how easy it is to change out bits or accessories. The DCF885B is knurled all the way down the sleeve vs the DCF887B which has the half the sleeve shown in the video below:
Tool Clip: If you want to hang it off your belt, you have the option which is located on the base of the handle grip.
Forward/Reverse Selector: This switch changes your rotation from clockwise to counterclockwise. You can also set the switch in the middle which prevents the trigger from engaging. This is nice so when you throw your tool in a tool bag it doesn't turn on accidentally.
Warrantee: Three-Year Limited Warranty. DEWALT will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover part failure due to normal wear or tool abuse. For further detail of warranty coverage and warranty repair information, visit www.dewalt.com or call 1-800-4-DEWALT (1-800-433- 9258). This warranty does not apply to accessories or damage caused where repairs have been made or attempted by others.
Durability
After many years of use, I can honestly say that this impact driver has held up quite well. I purchased the tool as the combination kit I'll list below which comes with a quality tool bag making it easy to carry around. The switches still feel tight, the rubber grips are in good shape, and the battery removes and locks in without any wobble. I foresee this tool lasting quite a long time.
Is this impact driver right for me?
The DCF885B sits as the base model in Dewalts lineup, with the only features missing being the Tool Connect App with bluetooth on the DCF888B and the speed and torque settings on the DCF887B & DCF888B. If you're looking for a tool to get a great bang for the buck in terms of reliability and price, the DCF885B is a fantastic choice. This tool would be perfect for the DIY'er.
If you feel the Dewalt DCF885B is right for you, here are a couple of links to Amazon for the impact driver as well as combination kits which include batteries, chargers, cases, etc.:
DCF885B Tool Only:
DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF885B)
DCF885C1 Impact Driver Kit:
- DCF885B Impact Driver
- (1) 20V Max 1.5Ah Lithium Ion battery
- (1) Tool Bag
- (1) DWA2T40IR screw driving set - 40 piece
- (1) Charger
