DeWalt DCF860 Review: High-Torque Powerhouse with Pro-Level Performance

DeWalt has finally answered the call for a higher-performance impact driver, and the DCF860 20V Max High Torque Impact Driver delivers in a big way. With a massive jump in torque, faster speeds, and smart design refinements, this tool aims to reclaim a top spot among the most powerful impact drivers available.

---

• Top Speeds: 1,800 / 2,500 / 3,800 RPM
• Impact Rate: 4,500 IPM
• Max Torque: 1,250 / 2,150 / 2,500 in-lbs
• Collet Size: 1/4 in. hex

Big Performance Boost

The DCF860 brings 675 in-lbs more torque than the DCF845, topping out at 2,500 in-lbs. That’s a serious leap forward for DeWalt’s 20V lineup. With higher RPMs and IPM, it now competes directly with heavy-hitters like Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel and Flex’s 24V FX1371.

Competitor Comparison

Model	Top Speed	Impact Rate	Max Torque
DeWalt DCF860	3,800 RPM	4,500 IPM	2,500 in-lbs
Flex 24V FX1371A	4,000 RPM	4,450 IPM	2,500 in-lbs
Makita 40V Max XGT GDT01	3,700 RPM	4,400 IPM	1,950 in-lbs
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2953	3,900 RPM	4,400 IPM	2,000 in-lbs

---

Hands-On Testing

We ran a series of demanding tests, including driving 8-inch GRK RSS screws and 3/8 x 8-inch lag bolts into stacked OSB subflooring.

• RSS Screws: Averaged 7.17 seconds (beating the DCF845’s 8.63 seconds).
• Lag Bolts: Just over 6 seconds (versus the DCF845’s 9.06 seconds).

It also chewed through 4 inches of OSB with a 1-inch spade bit, proving it has muscle beyond traditional fastening tasks.

---

Design and Build Quality

• Weight: 2.7 lbs (bare), 4.6 lbs (with 8.0Ah PowerPack)
• Head Length: 4.8 in.

Despite the boost in power, the DCF860 actually got shorter than the DCF845 (4.8" vs 5.1"). It’s still not as compact as the Atomic DCF850, but the trade-off in performance is well worth it.

Weight with Different Batteries

• 2.0Ah: 3.2 lbs
• 5.0Ah: 3.8 lbs
• 5.0Ah PowerStack: 3.9 lbs
• 8.0Ah PowerPack: 4.6 lbs

Even with the larger batteries, the tool stays balanced and comfortable for extended use.

---

LED Work Light Upgrade

DeWalt went big here, replacing the usual 3 LEDs with nine LEDs around the collet. You can cycle through four settings:

• Low (20 seconds)
• High (20 seconds)
• High (20 minutes)
• Off

This is one of the best work light systems we’ve seen on an impact driver.

---

Price and Warranty

• Bare Tool: $199.99
• Kit (8.0Ah PowerPack + charger): $319.99
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty, 1-year service, 90-day money-back guarantee

---

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Huge jump in torque and speed vs. DCF845
• Compact 4.8" head length
• Excellent 3-speed control
• Nine-LED work light with 20-min mode
• Well-balanced, even with larger batteries

Cons

• Slightly heavier than previous model

---

Bottom Line

The DeWalt DCF860 20V Max High Torque Impact Driver is one of the most exciting upgrades in DeWalt’s lineup in years. It delivers top-tier torque, competitive speed, and a pro-focused design that makes it a true flagship. For contractors and serious DIYers, it’s an easy recommendation.