Itโs the โMaxโ that I think gives it away. When DeWalt came out with its 20V Max line, we scratched our heads until it was explained that, like 12V Max tools, 20V is the peak output before the voltage drops to the nominal 18V (see our article on 20V Max vs 18V). In other words, most 18V lithium-ion tools are โ20V maxโ in the way that most 12V tools are really 10.8V nominal.
For some reason, the industry jumped onto 12V but eschewed 20V (except for the crew at Stanley Black & Decker). In any case, the new Rockwell Tools 16V Max line appears to be their version of 14.4V nominal, marketed โto the max.โ And thatโs coolโwhy not? The only important question is whether the tools possess the power density (power-to-weight ratio) that makes them valuable compared to the power of 18V tools and the size/weight savings of 12V tools.
Theย new Rockwell RK2600K2 16V MaxLithium Drill-Driver looks to be fairly compact and lightweight, though we donโt have exact size specs to do more than make a cursory examination. The companyโs new 16V tools are more powerful than their 12V models, but are designed to reduce some of their bulk. Rockwell describes them as โhighly maneuverable to get in and out of tight quarters quicklyโ, making us wonder if the companyโs marketing folks are fans of NASCAR.
Rockwell RK2600K2 16V Max Cordless Drill Driver
The Rockwell 16V Drill/Driver has 302 in. lbs. of torque, which is about 14% more than Boschโs PS31-2A 12V Max Drill Driver, but 14% less than Milwaukeeโs M12 FUEL 1/2โณ Drill/Driver Kit (2403-22). Weโre not sure what the street price of the Rockwell will be, but the Bosch is $130 online, and the Milwaukee M12 is around $180. Therefore, the expected $140 retail price puts it appropriately in the middle.
The Rockwellย 16V Drill/Driver features a 3/8 in. keyless, single-sleeve Jacobs chuck, a 16-torque-setting clutch, and a two-speed gearbox (0-400/1500 rpm). It weighs 2.75 lbs. The drill/driver also has an LED work light that doubles as a low-battery-charge indicator when blinking. The toolโs drilling capacity is 1 in. in wood and 3/8 in. in steel. The kit includes two 1.3Ah batteries, a 30-minute charger, a double-ended screwdriver bit, and a carrying bag. The included belt hook can be mounted on either side of the tool, and the tool features a nice soft-grip rubber overmold on the handle.
Another thing Rockwell has going for it is that the batteries are warranted for life. Rockwellโs Batteries for Life Program, available on all their cordless tools, means that registered tools are covered for the original owner as long as they own the tool.
