Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only

Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only

The Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Compact Stud & Joist Drill delivers powerful performance in a compact right-angle design—built for tight-space drilling in wood framing, plumbing rough-ins, and electrical installs. With up to 1,845 Max Watts Out when used with the DCB2108 battery (sold separately), this cordless drill tackles hole saws up to 4” and self-feed bits up to 2-9/16”, making it a reliable tool for demanding, high-output drilling tasks. At just over 11 lbs, it’s built to be lighter than traditional stud and joist drills, while still delivering the torque needed to drive large bits through structural wood.

A key feature of the DCD446B is Dewalt’s ANTI-ROTATION system, which senses excessive rotational movement—such as in a bind-up—and automatically shuts the tool down to protect the user. A red LED indicator notifies when this system is activated. With Tool Connect™ Chip Ready functionality (chip sold separately), fleet managers can track and manage the tool via Dewalt’s Site Manager App. Battery and charger are not included.

Dewalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill At a Glance

• ANTI-ROTATION System with Safety LED: Shuts down the tool in the event of excessive motion, reducing user risk in bind-up conditions.
• 1,845 Max Watts Out (with DCB2108 battery): High output performance to handle large hole saws and self-feed bits in heavy framing.
• Drills Up to 4″ with Hole Saws: Covers most rough-in and framing requirements for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades.
• Compact Size with Right-Angle Design: Fits into joist bays, stud walls, and mechanical enclosures where full-size drills are impractical.
• Tool Connect™ Chip Ready: Compatible with Dewalt’s asset tracking and management platform (chip sold separately).
• Efficient Brushless Motor: Increases runtime, reduces heat, and extends tool life.
• Keyed Chuck: Delivers secure bit holding for demanding torque loads.

Markets

• Electrical Contracting: Drills large-diameter holes in framing for conduit runs, switch boxes, and service feeds.
• Plumbing & Drainage: Ideal for boring through studs and joists for water supply lines and drain/waste/vent (DWV) pipes.
• HVAC Installation: Handles duct access and thermostat runs with the power and control needed for tight installs.
• Framing & Carpentry: A key asset for structural rough-ins, especially in residential and light commercial construction.
• Maintenance & Facility Services: Provides high power drilling without cords for retrofit and maintenance work.
• Construction Training Programs: Enables safe training on torque management with modern safety features.
• Telecom & Low-Voltage Installers: Drills cleanly for network drops, alarms, and cable runs in finished or occupied buildings.

Compact design with serious drilling power. This model is ideal for trades who often work in narrow wall cavities or tight spaces between studs. Electricians can drill chase paths and box holes without needing a full-size right-angle drill. Plumbers will find it capable of handling drain and vent holes in joists. With its cordless form and high-performance brushless motor, it delivers the right blend of control, safety, and torque for construction professionals who value both maneuverability and strength. The keyed chuck also provides secure bit retention, a must when using high-torque accessories.

Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only Features

• In addition to the integral clutch, the DEWALT anti-rotation E-ClutchSystem, offers technology capable of detecting the motion of the tool. This feature senses the motion of the tool and shuts it down if necessary . The red indicator LED illuminates when the E-ClutchSystem is engaged.
• 2 variable speed ranges (0-400/ 0-1320 rpm) to match appropriate speed to the application
• Magnesium gear case to reduce weight while maintaing jobsite durability.
• Power of the cord with cordless freedom
• 60V MAX* Brushless Motor for increase power and runtime
• Tool Connect™ Tag Ready. Installing a DEWALT Tool Tag allows for tracking and locating of the drill using the DEWALT Tool Connect ™ app.
• Easily shift between 1st and 2nd speed without having to feather the trigger
• Best used with Battery Models DCB609 or DCB609-2. Must be purchased separately and is not included.

Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only Includes

• (1) DCD446 20V MAX* XR® 1/2 in. Compact Stud & Joist Drill
• (1) Chuck Key

Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only Specifications

• Battery Voltage: 20V MAX (Battery Sold Separately)
• Chuck Type: Keyed
• Chuck Size: 1/2 in.
• Motor Type: Brushless
• Max Watts Out: 1,845 (with DCB2108 battery)
• Maximum Speed: 1,250 RPM
• Hole Saw Capacity: Up to 4 in.
• Self-Feed Bit Capacity: Up to 2-9/16 in.
• Tool Connect™ Chip Ready: Yes (chip sold separately)
• Tool Weight: 11.3 lbs
• Tool Dimensions (L x W x H): 18.543 in x 8.898 in x 5.591 in
• Power Source: Cordless
• Cordless Tool Type: Right Angle Drill
• Power Tool Features: ANTI-ROTATION Safety, Variable Speed, Tool Connect Compatibility, Compact Design
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited / 1-Year Free Service / 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee

Dewalt DCD446B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill – Tool Only Warranty

• Guaranteed Tough 3 Year Limited Warranty (3/1/90)

Why Customers Choose the Dewalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2″ Stud & Joist Drill

Often referred to by pros as a compact stud drill, cordless joist drill, or 20V right-angle drill, the Dewalt DCD446B offers serious power in a manageable package. Whether you’re punching holes between studs for wire pulls or opening up joists for plumbing rough-ins, this tool gives tradespeople the torque they need—without the cords or bulk of larger drills. It’s a smart addition to any professional’s cordless kit, balancing size, power, and control for today’s tight jobsite conditions.