DEWALT DCD446B 20V MAX XR 1/2-in Keyed Stud & Joist Drill (Tool Only) review

The DCD446B is the 1/2-inch keyed-chuck member of DEWALT's current compact stud-and-joist drill group. Its closest named counterpart, DCD447B, looks similar and shares the same manual family, but uses a 7/16-inch quick-release hex interface instead. That is not a cosmetic package distinction: it changes which bits fit. The DCD446B is also a tool-only SKU, with a small but useful chuck-key package rather than a battery kit.

A keyed chuck changes the bit routine

The DCD446 has a 1/2-inch keyed chuck. DEWALT lists one chuck key and one key holder with the drill. The Type 1 manual instructs the user to open the jaws, insert the bit, hand-tighten, then tighten with the key at all three chuck holes. It also warns against trying to grip the chuck collar and use the trigger to tighten an accessory. For someone with round-shank bits or shanks up to the stated half-inch capacity, this is a more conventional fit than the DCD447's fixed 7/16-inch hex quick-change head. The key is another item to keep track of; the listed holder gives it a place on the tool.

Chuck capacity is a shank limit, not a drilling-diameter promise. The manual's separate recommended-capacity table lists 1-3/8 inches for a wood auger, 2-9/16 inches for a self-feed bit, 4 inches for a hole saw and 7/16 inch for a metal twist bit. The table note ties its figures to DCB609 and DCB2108 batteries. Treat those as the manufacturer's recommendations under that battery condition, not an independent result or a guarantee for every bit, workpiece or operator.

A focused drilling tool

The exact US page identifies a 20V MAX XR brushless cordless stud-and-joist drill. Its page advertises up to 1,845 MAX watts out when using DCB2108 and compares that with DCB205; it also gives a holes-per-charge estimate for a specified 7/8-inch by 18-inch auger in 1.5-inch Douglas fir. Those claims depend on the named battery and work conditions. MAX watts out is not a torque measurement or UWO figure, and this site did not reproduce DEWALT's drilling or runtime examples.

The manual describes a variable-speed trigger and forward/reverse selector, and gives 0–1,250 rpm in its capacity table. It does not state a selectable gearbox count or a screwdriving clutch setting. Its documented use is drilling; it does not list hammer drilling. A 1/2-inch chuck alone does not make this a masonry hammer drill. Choose a model whose own manual specifies hammer mode if that is required.

Expect tool reaction, not just motor output

The instructions describe this as a high-torque drill. A fixed auxiliary top handle, two-hand positioning and a secured workpiece matter when a large bit binds. The ANTI-ROTATION system senses tool motion and can shut the drill down, with a red indicator when it engages, but it does not replace firm control. The manual says to release the trigger if the bit stalls, find the cause and avoid repeatedly cycling the trigger to restart it. It also tells the operator to remove the battery before changing accessories. These are practical operating limits, not evidence that the site has tested the tool.

Read the exact package list

DCD446B is the B-suffix tool-only listing. Its Includes list names the DCD446 drill, chuck key and key holder; the page says the battery and charger are sold separately and its structured case property says no case is included. The 20V MAX platform tells you what family to check for compatibility, but does not mean a battery, charger or bag comes in this box. The manual names compatible DEWALT packs and chargers, including DCB2108 and DCB118; check the label and current manual for the specific equipment you plan to use.

If a quick bit change using 7/16-inch hex accessories is more useful than a keyed 1/2-inch chuck, compare DCD447B; the DCD447WW1 is the kit version of that other drill. Conversely, the DCD446B's keyed interface is the clear distinction if your bit set and work require a conventional half-inch chuck. The product pages expose generic assembled-product dimension and weight fields, but do not define them as bare-tool or head-length measurements. I do not use them to claim short-head clearance or a tool-only weight.

Who should consider it

This package is a fit to investigate for a DEWALT 20V MAX owner who needs a dedicated drilling tool and values a keyed 1/2-inch chuck. It is not a light-duty general recommendation based on a hands-on test: no independent speed-under-load, hole-capacity, runtime, balance, vibration or durability measurements were made. Before purchase, check the exact DCD446B model, the listed chuck key and holder, the battery/charger status, and the bit and material limits in the manual. Current page presence does not establish price, stock, seller condition or what an individual reseller may bundle.