For high torque in a 12-volt drill, the Black & Decker HPD12K-2 cordless drill/driver truly delivers. With a professional-grade motor producing 175 inch-pounds of torque, this 3/8-inch model pours on the power when driving in large lag bolts used for building decks. The torque collar adjusts easily to one of 32 positions, with higher settings for heavy-duty drilling and lower settings for smaller screws.

The HPD12K-2 also features a two-speed gearbox for high-torque driving (0 rpm to 380 rpm) and high-speed drilling (0 rpm to 1,200 rpm). In the high-speed setting, you can drive over 400 two-inch screws into wood on a single charge. We like the HPD12K-2's well-balanced feel, and it is comfortable to hold. An especially impressive feature is the one-hand operation made possible by the single-sleeve keyless chuck with spindle lock. Just turn the sleeve counterclockwise to loosen the chuck, then insert the bit and tighten securely by turning the sleeve clockwise.

This cordless drill/driver comes with a kit box, two double-end bit tips, a pair of 12-volt spring-loaded batteries and a charger. On the downside, the case and its plastic locking clips are of lesser quality than those that come with similar models. Each battery pack takes 3 to 6 hours to fully charge. However, when you consider that this unit has a suggested price of $69.97, this is a minor quibble.

For an affordable drill, the Black & Decker HPD12K-2 cordless drill/driver pours on the power and is worthy of your consideration.


Pros: Powerful torque, easy-to-adjust torque collar, single-sleeve keyless chuck, well-balanced feel, affordable
Cons: Cheap plastic clips on case, battery pack takes 3 to 6 hours to fully charge

Warranty
2 years