DEWALT DW2166 45-Piece Screwdriving Set & DCD771C2 Drill Review
✅ PROS
- Powerful 300 UWO motor handles drilling through wood, metal, and masonry
- Compact and lightweight design fits tight spaces easily
- Two 20V MAX batteries provide uninterrupted workflow
- 45-piece bit set covers virtually every common screwdriving need
- Tough case container keeps bits organized and secure
- Ergonomic grip reduces fatigue during extended use
- Excellent DEWALT build quality and reliability
- Proven longevity — multiple owners report 4+ years of heavy use
❌ CONS
- Bits are standard quality, not professional-grade
- No hammer drill function for masonry drilling
- Some users prefer a chuck with higher clamping force
- Kit does not include a carrying bag for the drill itself
- Case size may be larger than needed for basic users
The Verdict
DEWALT DW2166 & DCD771C2: The DIY Power Combo That Keeps Delivering
If you are building your first serious toolkit or upgrading from a cheap drill that burns through batteries, the DEWALT DW2166 45-Piece Screwdriving Set paired with the DCD771C2 20V MAX Drill Driver is the combo that keeps coming up in every recommendation thread.
With 3,500+ reviews averaging 4.8 stars and owners reporting 4-6 years of daily use, this kit has earned its reputation. Here is the full analysis.
The Drill: DCD771C2 Performance
The DCD771C2 is DEWALT’s entry-level 20V MAX drill, and calling it “entry-level” undersells its capability. The high-performance motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO), which translates to genuine drilling power through wood, metal, and even light masonry with the right bit.
The compact design (7.5 inches long) lets you fit into tight spaces — drilling cabinet backs, working inside electrical boxes, or getting between studs. At just over 3.5 pounds with the battery, it is comfortable for overhead work.
A long-term owner shared: “I have had the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit for several years now, and I can confidently say it has been one of the best tools I have ever invested in. The drill itself is lightweight, ergonomic, and comfortable to hold, which makes it easy to use for extended periods.”
Durability is a recurring theme: “It is also incredibly durable — I have dropped it a couple of times (who has not?), and it still works perfectly.”
Battery Life and Charging
The two 20V MAX batteries are the practical highlight of this kit. While one battery runs the drill, the other charges. By the time the first battery drains, the second is ready to go.
One reviewer captured the workflow benefit: “The two included batteries are a game-changer, allowing me to work for long periods without worrying about recharging, and the charger ensures they are ready to go in no time.”
The 45-Piece Screwdriving Set
The DW2166 set includes Phillips, flathead, Torx, square drive, and hex bits in the most commonly used sizes, plus a magnetic bit holder and several nut drivers. The tough case container uses a bit retention system that keeps bits securely in place whether the case is in your truck, on a shelf, or tossed into a tool bag.
The quality is solid for homeowner and DIY use. Professional tradespeople may want to upgrade to impact-rated bits for daily use, but for weekend warriors and project enthusiasts, the included bits are more than adequate.
One reviewer noted: “Each bit feels solid and precise, and the variety in the 45-piece set means I have exactly what I need for every project, from assembling furniture to tackling home repairs.”
Long-Term Reliability
This is where DEWALT earns its reputation. Multiple owners report years of trouble-free service:
“I have had mine for 4 years now, and it has been a total workhorse. Whether I am tackling home DIY projects or using it for heavier tasks, it has never let me down.”
Another wrote: “I have had the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit for several years now, and I can confidently say it has been one of the best tools I have ever invested in. It has held up for years and continues to perform just as well as the day I bought it.”
Verdict
The DEWALT DW2166 & DCD771C2 Combo earns a 4.7 out of 5. It is the gold standard for DIY homeowners and project enthusiasts. The drill is powerful, reliable, and comfortable. The bit set covers virtually every need. The dual-battery system eliminates downtime.
The only reasons to look elsewhere are if you need a hammer drill for masonry work or if you are a professional tradesperson who needs impact-rated bits in larger quantities. For everyone else, this is the kit to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this drill drive large-diameter hole saws?
Yes, within reason. The 300 UWO motor handles hole saws up to about 1.5 inches in wood. For larger holes, step up to DEWALT’s higher-end models or use a corded drill.
Do the bits fit in the tough case securely?
Yes. The tough case uses a bit retention system that holds each bit in place. Bits do not fall out even when the case is shaken or dropped.
Is this kit compatible with other DEWALT 20V MAX tools?
Yes. The batteries and charger are compatible with the entire DEWALT 20V MAX system of over 200 tools.
What is the warranty on the drill and batteries?
DEWALT offers a 3-year limited warranty on the drill and a 2-year warranty on the batteries. Register your product on DEWALT’s website for warranty coverage.
Can you use impact-rated bits in this drill?
Yes. Impact-rated bits work fine in a standard drill chuck and will last longer than standard bits, especially when driving screws into dense materials.