Bosch 36618-02 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Compact-Tough Litheon Drill/Driver with 2 Slim Batteries

Reviews of Bosch 36618-02 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Compact-Tough Litheon Drill/Driver with 2 Slim Batteries

1.) Excellent product from Bosch!
Reviewed by: The Dude California
Rating:
Great drill! I am Contractor and currently own the 36v Bosch litheon drill (Dewalt XRP before that), but I got tired of using it for smaller projects like hanging doors and installing cabinets due to it's bulky size and weight. I now find myself using this drill for everything. It has an excellent power to weight ratio and is very smooth/refined. I have the slim pack batteries and they hold a good charge. I will still keep the 36V around but it may end up collecting dust. I have only owned the 18v for two weeks now so I can't comment on it's long term reliability, but I have used it for sinking numerous 3" deckmates into framing lumber, speedbores, small holesaws, backerboard screws, and other fasteners. I can't comment on it's mixing ability (mortar and other cement mixtures), but that's what electric corded drills are for. As an every day user, I am very happy with this purchase.

2.) Excellent drill
Reviewed by: G. Worner Wayne, NE
Rating:
Used it to build 4 picnic tables from Rockler plans in a college class. Four work crews, 3 days, hundred of screws in green treated lumber, one charge. Amazing torque, did not need to recharge. Students are Construction management majors and future shop teachers. They were impressed, as was I. Preschoolers came and helped assemble the tables (donated to their preschool) and the clutch worked well to allow the screw to be driven to the correct depth. I love this drill. Oh, and the light is sweet when working in dim areas.


3.) Bosch does it again
Reviewed by: Arr Jay Radler
Rating:
Super tool! I usually don't brand-buy, but my garage seems to be collecting a lot of blue-green and red tools. I have a Bosch RO sander and jigsaw now, and I think they are both top notch. This cordless drill fits right in with the other quality tools. Background: I use this tool for light to heavy work (fine woodworking, drywall, rough carpentry, make holes in 4x4 joists with spade bits to run electrical cable).

The drill is very slender compared to my old (got it three years ago) cordless Craftsman. I can drill in tighter spaces now without having to use my 90 degree attachment. The size reduction also means a lighter tool, which is very deceptive; this drill has some serious power. Nothing like a corded drill but still... The power of the 18 volt is impressive to say the least. I love the 30-minute charge time for the baterries. I fully anticipate solely using this drill thoughout an entire day-long project.

The ratcheting lock it GREAT! I put in a bit and tighten it down with a ratchet lock. This feature has given me the utmost confidence that a bit will never again slip again.

The price is kind of up there compared to competitors, but you get a whole lot of quality with this purchase. Highly recommend!

4.) Amazing Drill
Reviewed by: commando Ft. Bragg, North Carolina United States
Rating:
Recently I needed to purchase a new drill for work, and chose this one for several reasons. First and foremost, I own several Bosch tools and I already know that when I buy Bosch I won't be disappointed. The craftsmanship and functionality of their tools is top notch, and this one is no exception. The second reason I chose this drill was due to the Lithium Ion battery pack. If you can get the same juice out of a smaller and lighter package, why not? With this drill in my hand I felt like I was holding an older 12v model, but with the power of an 18v. I'll never use Ni-MH again. What surprised me more than anything else though, is the way the battery holds power. With older drills, as the battery loses power, so does the drill. This drill works at full power until the battery is drained, allowing you to work at full capacity until its time to change batteries. The final reason I chose this drill was for the torque rating. Simply put, I like power, and its better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. At this price point and combination of features, this was the most powerful drill available when I made my purchase. I find myself actually using the different torque and speed settings based on the job I am doing instead of just putting it on the highest setting and hoping I've got enough power. I'm probably going to get one of these for the house really soon even though I've got a perfectly fine cordless drill already. I like it that much.

5.) Terrific cordless drill
Reviewed by: David Bluestone Chicago, IL USA
Rating:
This Bosch drill is great. I bought this drill because a carpenter who was doing work at my place had it and loved it. I recently used it for a roof deck repair project. I was very impressed by the torque and the battery life. The LED light comes in handy as well.

This is one of the best purchases I've made. 5 stars to the team at Bosch that developed this product. If you are looking for a cordless drill, you need to look no further.

6.) Great drill!
Reviewed by: A. Sterk Chicago
Rating:
Bought this drill after returning the 14.4V Black and Decker. My first thought was to spend about $70-$80 for a drill. I quickly learned while constructing a wooden swing set that the Black and Deck was not a very good tool and went back and spent an extra $60 bucks to get this tool. The difference was amazing, this drill just feels stronger and better made (the BD felt like it was made of plastic and this one felt like it was made of metal). Grat power and torque, nice size, quick bit changes--plus the chuck locks with a "click" so you know its locked (the BD chuck couldn't even keep the drill bits in place). All in all I was very happy with this purchase, its the type of tool you just hold and know its a quality tool. BUY this drill!!

7.) Powerful cordless drill!
Reviewed by: mother of six FL, US
Rating:
After researching cordless drills for a little while, I settled on this Bosch. I actually got one that was reconditioned by Bosch and offered on Amazon for a great price. I was very pleased! It still came with the great case and two lithium-ion batteries and, what power! My husband is in the process of building a detached two car garage with a second story apartment for my son and his wife. I really got this tool for my own use, but he's been using it when he doesn't want to drag his corded drill around out there. He has been really impressed with the Bosch. It's even a champion when drilling holes in the concrete, which we were told he should really have a hammer drill for. He's not going to buy another tool just for this project, but the Bosch is working wonders. The batteries hold up great, charge in short time, and have full power all the way until the battery needs to be replaced. It's great to have two batteries so that one is charging while the other is in use so you just have a quick break while changing batteries. It even works great after he forgot to put it away one night and it was rained on. We dried it out of course and now I remind him about his tools, but I'm glad it didn't lose any power with that mishap.

8.) drill
Reviewed by: beverly mahoney WINCHESTER, MA, US
Rating:
Am very happy with this product. It is just as it was described. Love the light weight and the ease of use.

9.) Bosh The Best bang for your BUCKS
Reviewed by: Rex Breaux Bridge, Lao People's Democratic Republic
Rating:
Just purchased this Fine Instrument and WOW What a Fine Instrument Indeed Power To Spare in a Small package for sure,Had recently purchased a Makita 18 volt Lithium Ion Drill Driver but had to return it as did others as the Chuck had off center and most of the Spade bits I tried wobbled anyway this isn't about that drill is it,this BOSH is by far much better than the other,it will replace an aging Porta Cable 19.6Volt Powerhouse which has served me faithfully for 10 Years but is now ailing and needs to be sent to the old drills home if there was such a place......This next generation Drill/driver with the New power cells is Quite an upgrade from the OLD Ni cad batteries These new ones last longer and provide MORE POWER,This one has Over 500 pounds of torque!! Thats amazing and It delivers Plenty of arm twisting Power Be Ware if ur not careful you could actually pull a muscle this Baby has TORQUE!! Buy it with confidence wherever you can I got Mine a Local LOWES store .Drill- Baby -Drill, Bosh Will Rock your world!!

10.) My idea of a cordless drill!
Reviewed by: C. Mancieri Bristol, RI
Rating:
I have owned the Bosch 18-volt lithium dill for over six months and I find it to be a super drill! I did purchase a factory reconditioned model, which I generally tend to be leery, skeptical and cautious of reconditioned products. Though I admit that I do not use my drill every single day, my Bosch has performed flawlessly and superbly!

The power and battery life are great -- its just a super drill! I have owned other brand cordless drill over the years, my last one being a comparable model Craftsman which was a complete nightmare and disappointment! Both the Craftsman NiCa and the lithium-ion Die Hard models were undependable, problematic and a big let down. The battery life of the NiCa would drain after several days of non-use and barely drill a few holes and drive less than a dozen screws. Even a fully charged battery did not last or perform well. The lithium-ion was even worse -- after returning 3 batteries and one charger in the course of a month I still could not get one to charge and operate properly!

The Bosch is my idea of what a cordless drill should be and perform like -- it has the power and endurance to perform. I was never a big on cordless drills because other models I have owned in the past never seemed to have the power and stamina to perform, and I would put my trust in the "old reliable" electric drill (but have to hassle dragging out the extension cord if no electric outlet was handy). I have finally found a cordless drill which meets my expectations of a cordless drill.

I would recommend the Bosch to anyone in the market for a cordless drill!

11.) AWESOME!
Reviewed by: whammy_boy Connecticut
Rating:
I purchased this drill as a more powerful substitute to an old 14.4V drill I've been using for years. The Bosch does the job and then some! I have worked on a deck and two stacked subfloors and I am very happy with its performance. For what it is, it is very sturdily built and well balanced. The grip is very solid and feels great in your hand. There is no shortage of torque. The LED light on the top part of the handle is a wonderful added bonus. If the battery runs out, the drill comes with a second one which you can use right away. Within 30-40 minutes your first battery will be fully charged again so that there will be no down time. I got this drill for around $150 and at that time the deal was unbeatable by anyone.

Highly recommended!

12.) I love this drill! You buy now!
Reviewed by: D. DeBar Pittsburgh
Rating:
I can't stress to you enough how awesome this drill is. I find this drill to be the most comfortable drill I've yet used; corded or otherwise. I have no idea what the other reviewer was talking about with his finger "naturally" sliding to the bottom of the trigger because of the handle design. I've driven a couple hundred screws with this baby thus far, and my trigger finger couldn't be any more comfortable, I'll bet he has small hands. This puppy has power to spare; 42 foot pounds of torque will easily drive 3 inch screws.

The rubber bit holder sucks. Then included magnetic interchangeable bit driver is crooked and doesn't drive straight, you're better off using the double ended bit.

I love the (very bright) LED light. It's smaller and lighter than I thought it would be! I'm sure that I'll be useing (and enjoying) this 12v Bosch Gem of a drill for many years to come. I DO NOT cut corners when it comes to quality tools, I'd rather spend the money once and avoid any problems down the line.

Fine watches aren't the only great product the Swiss make!

13.) Great Tool
Reviewed by: Sign Man NY
Rating:
I purchase the cordless drill about a month ago and I am super happy with it. I use it for work and personal projects. It is comfortable in my hand and well balance. The batteries hold their charge well.

I recommend this tool.

14.) An Excellent, Powerful Cordless 1/2" Drill
Reviewed by: Donald W. Coley Danbury, CT
Rating:
I purchased one of these kits (with case, charger and two "slim" Li-Batteries) in May, 2010. It has been used (fairly lightly), but regularly since then and it is flawless, so far !!! I am very pleased with it.

15.) better than I expected
Reviewed by: Evan Chechopoulos San Luis Obispo, CA United States
Rating:
Tool is more balanced than I expected, and runs smoother than I expected. The LED light is great for working in tight, dark spots (was using it last night to remove window coverings).

16.) Great Drill Motor
Reviewed by: Bruce
Rating:
A good friend saw my 18 Volt Bosch Drill/Driver in action and asked me if I liked it. I told him of all the cordless drills I have used in years of being a Handyman, this one is the best I ever used. He asked me to order one for him. I did and he will be pleased I'm sure!

Bruce

17.) Great drill
Reviewed by: Thomas Krystofiak Fairfield, IA USA
Rating:
My Hitachi 18v with two batteries reached the end of its life, as both batteries failed to hold much of a charge anymore. So I moved up to this Bosch. So far, I love it. Small, light, powerful. The batteries are very small, but seem to hold a lot of power. Time will tell...

18.) Great for light/medium use homeowner!
Reviewed by: B. Mueller Kirksville, MO United States
Rating:
I've owned this product for 6-8 months. After buying a home I spent a significant amount of time researching cordless drills. My comparisons and experience include NiCad Makitas (9, 14v) and Dewalts (18v). I purchased this for around the house repairs, some basement remodeling, roof work, etc (a fair gamut of home repairs in my opinion).

This is great because the battery holds a charge for so long when not being used. It will often get used for 2-3 weeks straight, then not at all for 3 months. The battery is right there where it left off. Also, only 15 minutes to recharge! (Full size batteries, optional, take 30).

Power is comparable to similarly priced NON-lithium Dewalts in the $150-200 range. Father in law is full time handyman and has done this comparison.

Overall in my research it was between this and a Makita 18v lithium, although at the time of research the Makitas had some battery issues. I would rate this the "best" new homeowner drill for someone who wants to spend a little more up front and expect a drill to last them a longer time.

Only drawbacks are chuck holder doesn't work (no biggie at all for me) and the truly only negative, no belt clip. Again I use it infrequently enough I'll trade that for better quality.

19.) Great Drill!
Reviewed by: Cableguy
Rating:
It is a great drill. The battery charges fast. The battery lasts a long time. The drill is very rugged. Nice carry case with it as well.

20.) Bosch 36618 Review
Reviewed by: Leader77
Rating:
After extensive research and looking at many cordless drills in Home Depot, Lowe's, etc. I first decided on Litheon Ion as my battery type for weight savings and long term durability having previously had NI-CD. Then I selected Bosch based on numerous other peoples reviews and on-line test reports. The Bosch 18V replaces a 12V XLT Ni-Cd DeWalt that gave me years of good service but the batteries final reached the point of not taking a good charge. The Bosch is far superior in that I have a lighter drill with more torque. It is also smaller and more compact and has a small light on the flont that helps in dimly lighted areas. Very nice product-would highly recommend.

21.) powerfull
Reviewed by: Paul E. Ford
Rating:
this drill so so light and powerfull I was amazed and the light really does help in those dark places A+++

22.) first time to purchase
Reviewed by: Swosu Repairs Roma Willis
Rating:
it took a little longer than we thought to receive but we are very happy with the product

23.) A good one
Reviewed by: drillabit CA
Rating:
replaced a junk Dewalt with the Bosch its well made no surprise there and cheaper than comparable Makita extremely happy with purchase

24.) great power - needs better grip design
Reviewed by: Dave in KC Overland Park, KS
Rating:
I purchased this drill along with a Makita BDF452 and gave both a workout in my garage. My test used 2"x6" pressure treated lumber. My goal was to test power, battery endurance and comfort of use. With both drills, I drilled qty (10) 1" spade bit holes, qty (20) 3/8" bit holes and sunk qty (75) 2" drywall screws. My hand and arm were tired so I quit, but suffice it to say, neither drill quit, so I called battery endurance test a tie. I believe the Bosch had slightly more power and speed, but the Makita had plenty of both for my needs. Both drills gave your arm a good twist when the spade bit would catch and hold. In a close race, I declared the Bosch the winner in power category. The Makita was clearly a more comfortable drill to use. It fit my hand well and the trigger was easy to use. The Bosch handle is configured at a bit of an angle and while using the spade bit the back of the drill seemed to press into my hand. Also, during use my finger naturally moved to the bottom of the trigger and it became a bit uncomfortable. Both drills are very well built and neither got hot during my tests. At the end of the day I preferred the Makita because it was slightly smaller (about 3/4" shorter) and clearly had a more comfortable grip position during use.


25.) Great for the Weekend Handyman
Reviewed by: Bullfrog Charlotte, NC
Rating:
I purchased the Bosch to replace another 18v that stopped working. I was impressed with the balance, lightweight (compaired to a NiCa) and the exceptional sensitivity of the variable speed contol. I also like the led light under the A good quality product. Negative features are a poorly designed bit holder (it doesn't work!) and no belt hook. Other than that a great quality tool

26.) Only one thing missing
Reviewed by: eLisa Seattle, WA
Rating:
I bought this drill for my husband for father's day. We owned a cheaper model before and it gave out on us. It was a toss up between this one and the larger Bosch 18-volt but I went with this one as it would be lighter, easier to carry around and because we're not doing any heavy duty remodeling these days.

My husband told me that the drill is easily twice as powerful as the cheap one he had prior to this. He loves it. The only thing he was disappointed in is that the battery doesn't have a power meter to visually alert him that the battery is running low. And his "cheapie" model drill did have this feature. Even so Bosch, your tools never disappoint us.

27.) Good product
Reviewed by: JoeSchmoe155 NY USA
Rating:
Powerful. Keyless chuck is of high quality. Bit holder is not holding anything though - my 15 years old Black & Decker had better bit holder.

28.) I love this drill!
Reviewed by: hopland hophead hopland, CA
Rating:
The keyless chuck is wonderful. I thought i did not want a drill with a keyless chuck because i hated my old (age 10+-) dewalt cordless whose chuck frustrated me endlessly. the ratcheting operation of the bosch is entirely different. I find the ergonomics to be excellent. as suggested by another reviewer, the rubber bit holders are absolutely worthless, unless you don't mind bending over to pick up your stored bit off the ground every couple of minutes!! By the way, I originally ordered an impact driver even though i didn't know much about them. think of the guy at the garage taking off and putting on the wheels on your car - very irritating and noisy. i hated it, and sent it back.

29.) Good Bosch Product
Reviewed by: Robert D. Martin
Rating:
Quality product with batteries that appear to be much better than other top brands. The batteries charge fast also

Features of Bosch 36618-02 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Compact-Tough Litheon Drill/Driver with 2 Slim Batteries

Compact tough design for increased maneuverability in tight spaces and less user fatigue. High torque mode produces over 500 in. lb. (dynamic torque). High speed mode produces 1600 RPM. DuraShield housing is constructed to withstand real state of art lithium ion battery technology coupled with Bosch's proprietary ECP (electronic cell protection) system guarantees the optimal performance of tool and batteries even for tough work conditions. Batteries are designed for maximum cycle life, minimum self discharge and no memory effect. LED light is great for dark or enclosed areas. 20 position clutch for complete control. Variable speed wide trigger for increased precision. Includes (2) 18V litheon SlimPack batteries, 30 minute charger, double ended bit, and carrying case.

Built tough, the Bosch 36618-02 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Compact-Tough Litheon Drill/Driver with Two Slim Pack Batteries is a durable, powerful, and compact tool for high-quality results. Featuring Durashield housing to guard against wear and tear, the 36618-02 utilizes an 18-volt Litheon battery, which provides 35% more runtime and two times the recharge cycles of its competitors.

The 36618-02 Litheon Drill/Driver offers: 18-volt Litheon batteries for long-lasting performance. Up to 1,600 RPM and 500 in./lbs. of torque. 20 clutch settings and a variable-speed trigger for versatility. One-handed bit changes.

Pictured with a Fat Pack battery. Even though this tool comes with 2 Slim Packs, you can purchase a Fat Pack separately and get more run time--2.6 Ah vs. 1.3 Ah with the Slim Pack. No other company provides this option. View larger.

18-Volt Litheon Batteries for Maximum Runtime and Manageability
The 36618-02 utilizes state-of-art lithium-ion battery technology and Bosch's proprietary ECP (Electronic Cell Protection) system to provide maximum cycle life, minimum self-discharge, and no memory-effect. Best of all, Litheon batteries will fully charge in 30 minutes and will be at 85% capacity in just 15 minutes.

Handle grip with finger support provides maximum control. View larger.

Up to one pound lighter than comparable 18-volt NiCad drills/drivers, the 36618-02 won't weigh you down. It's ideal for a wide range of drilling and fastening jobs, from hanging curtains to building a deck; from making automotive repairs to installing cabinetry.

Unique, Flexible Power System
Like all tools in Bosch's 18-Volt line, this drill/driver can be used with either a 1.3-Ah BAT609 Slim Pack battery (two included) or a 2.6-Ah BAT318 Fat Pack. If you're looking for a lighter-weight option, the Slim Pack is the perfect choice. If longer runtime is what you need, the Fat Pack will do the job. Bosch is the only power tool manufacturer that provides this option.

Fast Speeds, High Torque, and Durable Construction for Reliable Results
The 36618-02 works at speeds up to 1,600 RPM and provides 500 in./lbs. of torque. Durashield housing, unibody construction, and a steel-reinforced collar help you withstand real-world conditions, like temperature extremes, rain, dirt, debris, and drops.

The 36618-02's Durashield Housing is constructed with ABS/Nylon composite, which makes the housing flexible and impenetrable. Unlike competitive tools, which use a conventional plastic housing, Durashield will not crack and can easily withstand 10-foot drops.

This tool also features unique unibody construction with three steel straps that keep the motor, gears, and clutch together. This ensures that the gears never separate from the motor, and it keeps the drill functioning even after drops.

Additionally, the 36618-02 boasts an exclusive steel-reinforced collar that protects the nose of the drill. It provides extra reinforcement in the event of drops on the chuck and prevents the chuck from bending or breaking off.

Easy Bit Changes and Balanced Design for Utmost Control
The 36618-02 comes complete with a single-sleeve 1/2-inch chuck for one-handed bit changes, as well as increased drill-bit capacity for versatility. And for maximum control, comfort, and balance, the tool boasts a newly designed handle-grip with finger support.

Smart Features for Easy Use
20 clutch settings and a variable-speed trigger help you match the best speed to the job, so you can achieve precise results. At the same time, the 36618-02's ergonomic design provides optimum comfort and control. And for even greater convenience, LEDs provide illumination when you are working in dark or enclosed areas.

ProVantage Guarantee
The 36618-02 comes with the ProVantage three-year protection plan, which guarantees two years of battery protection and one year of tool protection. Under this plan, you can receive two years of free battery replacements, tool replacement for one year, and a free tool repair package for the second and third years.

What's in the Box
Drill/driver; two Litheon Slim Packs; 30-minute charger; double-ended bit; and carrying case.

18V Lithium Ion Family of Tools
For more information, click on the images below
17618-01 1/2-Inch Brute Tough Hammer Drill/Driver	37618-01 1/2-Inch Brute Tough Drill/Driver	36618-02 1/2-Inch Compact Tough Drill/Driver	CCS180(K)(B) 6.5-Inch Circular Saw Blade Kit	CRS180(K)(B) Reciprocating Saw Kit
25618-01 Impact Driver w/Two Fat Batteries	25618-02 Impact Driver w/Two Slim Batteries	24618-01 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench w/Two Fat Batteries	IWH181-01 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench w/Two Fat Batteries	CFL180 Cordless Flashlight
CLPK23-180 1/2-Inch Drill/Driver and Impactor Driver Two-Tool Combo Kit	CLPK22-180 Hammer Drill/Driver and Impactor Driver Two-Tool Combo Kit	CLPK20-180 Hammer Drill/Driver and Reciprocating Saw Two-Tool Combo Kit	CLPK21-180 Hammer Drill/Driver and Circular Saw Two-Tool Combo Kit	CLPK40-180 Reciprocating Saw, Circular Saw, Hammer Drill/Driver, and Flashlight Four-Tool Combo Kit

1.) New compact tough design for increased maneuverability and less user fatigue;
2.) Features 0-500/0-1,600 RPM and 500 in./lbs. of torque;
3.) 20-position clutch settings for precise driving applications;
4.) State-of-art lithium-ion battery technology coupled with ECP (Electronic Cell Protection) system guarantees the optimal performance of tool and batteries even for tough work conditions;
5.) LED Light is great for dark or enclosed areas;

Package Height x Length x Width: 19 in. x 19 in. x 14.8 in.
Package Weight: 10.8 lbs.

Accessories for Bosch 36618-02 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Compact-Tough Litheon Drill/Driver with 2 Slim Batteries