The creatively-named Rockwell 3RILL is a 3-in-1 impact driver. It features a unique design that allows you to quickly switch from impact driver to variable speed drill to screwdriver modes. So it’s not just an impact driver, it’s also a dual-speed VSR drill and cordless screwdriver with 22 adjustable clutch settings.
Rockwell’s 3RILL (model RK2515K2), is powered by their 12V LithiumTech battery system, which has a smart chip battery that charges up to 75% capacity in just 15 minutes and 100% in 30-minutes (which is about average).
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Like other impact drivers, the 3RILL has a 1/4″ hex chuck. When in impact driver mode, use impact-rated screwdriver bits; when in variable-speed drill mode, use 1/4″ hex-shank or impact-ready drill bits (like the Dewalt impact drill bits we reviewed some time ago); and when in screwdriver mode use any 1/4″ hex-shank bits.
The 3RILL weighs in at 2.7 lbs, the impact rate is 0-3000 IPM, and max torque is 800 in-lbs when in impact mode. In VSR rotary-mode, the 3RILL has no-load speeds of 0-600 and 0-2200 RPM for high-torque and high-speed modes respectively.
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The Rockwell 3RILL is priced at about $170. It’s neat that you can switch between drill/driver modes, and it looks like this is the only 12V tool of this type on the market. There are a few similarly featured 18V models already on the market, such as this Bosch 3-mode impact driver.
One thing that I don’t like is how the drill mode requires the use of 1/4″ shank drill bits, which I have found to wobble more than regular drill bits do when in any standard 3-jaw drill chuck. I was hoping that Rockwell would have designed the 3RILL with an interchangeable chuck system as they did with their H3 12V rotary hammer drill.
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In any case, it seems like Rockwell is on a roll with these new tools. We’re also thinking that whomever called the drill/driver 3RILL also named Rockwell’s new Trans4mer saw.
Blair
I understand the “wobble factor” involved with hex shanked drill bits, but when I envision a practical use for a tool like this, I think of construction assembly where the drill would be used to make pilot holes, or pass through holes for screws, lags, carriage bolts, etc.,where the tolerances usually are a bit more relaxed than in say, cabinet work , where precision is called for. At least that is what I would end up using it for if I had one, and I do like the idea of only having to lug one tool for the different tasks.
Stuart
You’ve got a point there. But the 3rill is not being marketed towards the construction industry, at least not primarily, and even if so, I have not seen much widespread use of hex-shanked drill bits aside from perhaps spade/paddle bits.
James
I’m not blown out of the water by this, and personally, it seems a bit gimmicky; however, I do like the direction they are going. All I see this as is an impact driver that lets you turn off the impact mode. I think that should become a standard feature for impact drivers (I know some 18v drivers are coming out with that feature, as well as an adjustable impact strength). Now this is nice in certain situations, but it’s a deal-breaker as far as drilling goes to not have a regular keyless chuck.
If I had to have just one tool for all my drilling and driving needs, it would simply be any one of the dozens of the standard 2-gear drills out there. Drills can also drive better than impact drivers can also drill (I realize how confusing that sounds).
Robert
Although I haven’t experienced a lot of their cordless tools, I’ve used a few. Overall I consider Rockwell to be primarily a corded tool manufacturer. I think that their cordless tools receive credit based on the reputation of their corded tools.
I have a friend with one of their cordless drills that I wouldn’t give you a nickel for. He’s a woodworker, and purchased the drill based on experience with his traditional Rockwell products. The drill has extremely unimpressive torque, a poor excuse for batteries, etc. Let’s just say that when my friend purchased another cordless drill, it was a Dewalt.
This item may be an exception. I’d be more inclined however, to purchase a better established cordless tool. I wouldn’t want to take an arbitrary chance on this. Even if it performs well out of the box, I’d question it’s longevity as well as the life of the batteries.
Robert
Robert Eggers
comparison to the Milwauke 2401-22 to the rockwell 3drill. which one is better Quality.
Stuart
Apples and oranges. I only spent a few minutes with a 3rill demo in-store, but from what I saw, I would much prefer a Bosch or Dewalt driver over it. Cannot really say about Milwaukee since I haven’t used theirs yet.
Scott Sutter
Great concept and all but this drill doesn’t hold up. Break in period for the batteries was too long. The first charge literally drove 4 sheet metal screws into 18 gauge metal and was done. Both batteries behaved in this manner. Batteries got better with time but the drill became erratic at times and would suddenly quit as if maybe a thermal limit was breaking the circuit. Bought it on clearance from Lowe’s and got just over a month out of it. Really liked the drill when it worked but never fully trusted it.
Thomas F Dowd
I have an issue with this hammer -drill and need some advise. The adjustment to hammer will not move and won’t hammer. The adjuster moves but not to “hammer” It’s a good tool and need the “hammer” option
James
Let’s address a few issues, it has an impact option, not hammer big difference. Hammer is for concrete and such, impacts have a hammer, but only hits at certain torque. Sinking screw heads, breaking loose, ect. Next, I’ve been all aspects of construction for over 20 years, cordless tools have come along way. I would take this tool over dewalt cordless every day, hands down. Lightweight, compact, quick charge. Very durable, well built. And FREE BATTERIES FOR LIFE” Can’t be beat!
Jay
I have one of these, and stumbled on this post while looking for a battery. How does one get free replacement batteries?
Doug Klinger
I live in Canada and cannot find a replacement battery. Can you point me in the right direction?
Stuart
You’ll have to double check, but the replacement battery looks to be RW9300, and Amazon Canada and presumably other retailers carry it.
Jim Dean
Here we are in 2021. I don’t know how many batteries I’ve gone through with this thing, but it’s still my go-to drive tool for about 80 percent of what I do. The gears are showing some wear, for sure, but so far it still works.
Eduardo Carbungco
How do you get something out of the Chuck of impact drill of a Rockwell 12 v
Stuart
Unfortunately, if pliers don’t work, I’m out of ideas. I suppose it depends on the type of bit that was broken, and where it broke, but this is generally a frustrating process without guaranteed success.
Robert Fordham III
This is the best driver drill impact that I have ever had or seen. It makes things so much easier to work on different things. I love this drill!