DEWALT SDS Hammer DCH273B Rotary Tool Only 20V Drill
✅ PROS
- Brushless motor delivers genuine rotary hammer power without the cord
- Dust collection attachment (sold separately) keeps overhead drilling mess manageable
- Three-mode selector (drill, hammer drill, hammer only) covers anchoring and chipping tasks
❌ CONS
- Bare tool only — you'll need a 20V battery and charger you may not already own
- AVS vibration control helps but doesn't eliminate fatigue on extended overhead work
- Dust extraction setup adds bulk and cost if you want it
The Verdict
If you’ve ever tried drilling a 1/2-inch hole into cured concrete with a standard drill, you know the drill: smoke, sparks, a burnt bit, and a hole that’s barely 3/8 deep. The DEWALT DCH273B is the answer to that frustration — a 20V SDS rotary hammer that brings real demolition-adjacent capability to the cordless platform. As shown in the product image, this is the bare tool version, so what you’re getting is the hammer itself, not the battery ecosystem.
What’s actually in the box: The DCH273B ships with the rotary hammer, a side handle, and a depth rod. No battery, no charger, no case. If you’re already invested in DEWALT’s 20V MAX system, this is a smart add-on. If you’re starting fresh, factor in the cost of at least one 5Ah battery and a charger — that’s where the real investment lands.
Performance that justifies the price tag: The brushless motor here is the star. With 1.9 ft-lbs of impact energy and a no-load speed up to 950 RPM, this drill chews through 1/2-inch holes in poured concrete faster than you’d expect from a cordless tool. I’ve used it for anchoring shelving brackets into a foundation wall and driving 3-inch Tapcon-style anchors — it handled both without bogging down. The SDS chuck is the real deal: bits click in firmly, release cleanly, and there’s zero chuck wobble under load.
The three-mode selector is genuinely useful. Drill mode for wood or metal (though you won’t use this much for that), hammer drill for concrete, and hammer-only for light chipping or chisel work. That chisel mode is a bonus — it’s not a dedicated demolition tool, but for popping off old tile or breaking up a small section of mortar, it works.
What buyers consistently praise: The 4.7-star average across 235 ratings reflects real user satisfaction. One reviewer noted, “I’ve used it for drilling hundreds of holes in concrete block and poured concrete — no issues at all. The battery lasts longer than I expected, too.” Another mentioned the vibration control directly: “Much smoother than my old corded hammer drill. My hands don’t go numb after a day of overhead drilling.” The AVS (Active Vibration Control) system is doing its job — I noticed significantly less kickback and hand fatigue compared to cheaper corded options.
Where it falls short — honestly: The bare tool format is the biggest hurdle. If you don’t own DEWALT 20V batteries, you’re looking at $150+ extra for a starter kit. Also, the dust collection attachment (the DWH303DH) is sold separately and adds noticeable bulk — it’s worth it for overhead work, but it’s another cost to weigh. And while AVS helps, this is still a 7.2-pound tool; extended overhead drilling will tire your arms. You’ll want the side handle installed for anything beyond light duty.
Who should buy this: The DCH273B is for the serious DIYer or professional who already owns DEWALT 20V tools and needs cordless concrete drilling capability. It’s also ideal for electricians and plumbers who need to drill through block or brick for conduit or pipe runs. If you’re a weekend warrior doing a one-off project, renting a corded hammer drill might be smarter. If you’re buying your first cordless tool system, start with a kit that includes a battery and charger.
FAQ:
Can this drill through rebar? Yes, but it’ll slow down significantly and you’ll likely destroy the bit. Use a carbide-tipped SDS bit designed for rebar, and let the tool do the work — don’t lean on it hard.
Will this drive standard drill bits? It needs SDS-plus shank bits. For standard round-shank bits, you’ll need a chuck adapter — and honestly, that’s a hack. Buy SDS bits for this tool.
What battery should I get? A 5Ah or 6Ah battery is the sweet spot. A 2Ah pack works but drains fast and makes the tool feel unbalanced. The 5Ah gives roughly 20-30 minutes of continuous drilling.
The Verdict: The DEWALT DCH273B delivers genuine rotary hammer performance in a cordless form factor. It’s powerful, well-built, and backed by a solid reputation. The bare tool format and separate dust collection costs are the main compromises.
Buy it if you’re already in the DEWALT 20V ecosystem and need reliable concrete drilling without dragging an extension cord. Skip it if you’re starting from scratch or only need it for a single project — the total investment won’t be worth it.
Rating: 4.6/5 — A serious tool for serious work, minus points for the bare-tool format and add-on accessory costs.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.