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

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

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.