DeWalt shrank the SDS-Plus hammer to one-handed size without gutting the impact energy. For anchor work overhead, it changes the job.
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The Verdict
If your day involves more 6–10 mm anchor holes than 20 mm through-holes, the DCH172 is the smarter buy. You give up top-end capacity and gain a compact, one-handed tool built for overhead work.
Pros and Cons
Strengths
- 1.1 J impact energy in a genuinely one-handed body
- Inline motor puts the balance point under the wrist
- Dust port takes the DWH161 extractor without adapters
- Runs on the same 18V packs as the rest of the DeWalt line
Drawbacks
- Not the tool for repeated holes above 16 mm
- No rotation-only mode for driving
- Kit price climbs quickly once you add the extractor
The Full Review
The compact SDS category has been quietly getting better for years. DeWalt’s stated 1.1 J of impact energy, measured to EPTA, sits at the top of the one-handed class. DeWalt publishes no drilling rate, and we have not measured one.
What matters more than the raw number is where the tool puts that energy. The motor sits inline rather than on top, so the balance point falls close to under your wrist. On overhead anchor work that layout is the whole argument for this hammer over a full-size one, because the weight sits where your arm can support it rather than out in front of it.
Runtime is the open question. DeWalt publishes no holes-per-charge figure, and on a 16 mm hammer that number swings enormously with bit diameter and substrate. Plan on a second pack if you are anchoring all day.
Dust extraction is worth a mention because the integration is unusually clean. The DWH161 clips on without adapters, which matters on any job carrying an indoor dust specification and is a genuine reason to choose this hammer over a cheaper one.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chuck | SDS-Plus |
| Impact energy | 1.1 J (EPTA) |
| Blows per minute | 0–5,000 |
| No-load speed | 0–1,000 rpm |
| Max capacity, concrete | 16 mm |
| Weight, bare | 2.0 kg |
| Battery platform | DeWalt 18V XR |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Availability | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | $219 | In stock | Check price |
