What The Model Numbers On DeWalt Tools Really Mean

Whether it's a drill, impact wrench, or any one of the other five lesser-known DeWalt tools that can come in handy around your home, the DeWalt brand of power tools is, not surprisingly, one of the best you can buy. Whether you're an avid DIYer or a professional, you've likely used a DeWalt power tool, and while you might not need to recall vital information about DeWalt model numbers, it's useful information to know how they work.

While DeWalt doesn't seem to have published a formal guide on their model numbers, tried and true DeWalt consumers have picked up on the consistencies of the model patterns over time by using the DeWalt Product Catalog. Based on these patterns, consumers can decipher the tool type, the specific tool, and the battery needed for each tool. While this party trick might seem unnecessarily involved, it can come in handy if you ever need to contact DeWalt customer service. When thinking about handy DeWalt products to consider even if you're not looking to buy tools, take a look at the model number and see if you can decipher what it says.

While considering if DeWalt Power Tools are really worth the hefty price tag, it's important to learn as much about them as possible, including how to read the model numbers. DeWalt model numbers are divided into sections, with the tool type leading the number. Here are some of the more common combinations you'll encounter: DCD means cordless drill or driver, DCF denotes a cordless impact driver, DCS is for cordless saws, and DCH refers to a cordless hammer drill or hammer.

After the tool type, the model number includes the specific tool in the series. While a set model pattern exists for the tool type, the specific tool numbering isn't so cut and dry. For example, the DeWalt Combination Hammer SDS Max 40 mm has a model number of DCH481X2. However, the Combination Hammer SDS Max 45 mm has a model number of DCH614X2, which doesn't follow a natural, logical progression. If you simply look at DeWalt model numbers, you'll be able to tell the tool type with general ease, but understanding the specific tool could prove to be more difficult.

The last section of the model number indicates the type and number of batteries included with the tool. Like the tool type, there is a pattern this follows: C, for example, means a 1.3Ah or 1.5Ah battery, D indicates a 2Ah battery, M refers to a 4Ah battery, and P denotes a 5Ah battery. Each of these letters is also followed by a number, which will tell you how many batteries of this type the tool comes with.