Hercules Brushless Drill

When I first held a Hercules Brushless Drill in my hands, I knew my DIY game was about to change forever. The solid feel, the impressive power-to-weight ratio, and that unmistakable high-quality construction immediately signaled that this wasn’t just another budget tool. As someone who’s gone through more drills than I care to admit, I’ve learned (often the hard way) that investing in the right power tool can make all the difference between project frustration and satisfaction.

After spending countless hours using the Hercules Brushless Drill across dozens of projects—from building my backyard deck to installing kitchen cabinets—I’ve compiled everything you need to know before making this purchase. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious contractor, this comprehensive guide will help you determine if the Hercules Brushless Drill deserves a spot in your toolbox.

What Exactly Is a Hercules Brushless Drill?

Let’s start with the basics. The Hercules Brushless Drill is a power drill manufactured under the Hercules brand, which is exclusive to Harbor Freight Tools. Don’t let the Harbor Freight association fool you—this isn’t your typical budget tool. The Hercules line represents Harbor Freight’s premium tier, specifically designed to compete with professional-grade tools.

The “brushless” designation refers to the motor technology, which is a significant upgrade from traditional brushed motors. Instead of using physical carbon brushes that wear down over time, brushless motors employ electronic commutation, eliminating a major failure point and dramatically improving efficiency, power, and longevity.

When I first unpacked my Hercules drill, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The drill features a rugged composite housing that’s clearly built to withstand job site abuse. At around 3.1 pounds with the battery attached, it strikes an excellent balance between durability and maneuverability.

The standard package typically includes:

• The Hercules 20V brushless drill/driver
• One or two lithium-ion batteries (depending on the kit purchased)
• A charger
• A belt clip
• A sturdy carrying case

What separates this drill from lower-tier options is the attention to detail—from the comfortable ergonomic grip with overmold to the bright LED work light positioned to actually illuminate your work area without casting shadows (a small but meaningful touch that shows thoughtful design).

Brushless vs. Brushed: Why It Matters

When I first started researching the Hercules drill, the whole “brushless” feature seemed like marketing jargon. Was it really worth paying extra for? After using both types extensively, I can confidently say: absolutely.

In traditional brushed motors, physical carbon brushes make contact with a commutator to complete the electrical circuit. This creates friction, heat, and wear—all enemies of motor longevity. These brushes eventually wear down and need replacement.

The brushless motor in the Hercules drill eliminates these physical contact points. Instead, it uses electronic commutation controlled by a small computer that precisely manages the power delivery. This fundamental difference creates several significant advantages:

1. Longer lifespan: With no brushes to wear out, the motor can last significantly longer—often 2-3 times as long as a comparable brushed motor.
2. Greater efficiency: Brushless motors convert more electrical energy into mechanical power instead of wasting it as heat. In practical terms, I’ve found I can drill approximately 30-40% more holes on a single battery charge compared to my old brushed drill.
3. More power: The Hercules brushless drill delivers impressive torque (up to 576 in-lbs) in a compact package. When I was installing lag bolts for my deck, the difference in power was immediately noticeable.
4. Smart power management: The electronic controller adjusts power output based on resistance. When I’m driving screws into softwood, the drill uses less power to extend battery life. When I hit a knot or switch to hardwood, it automatically increases power as needed.
5. Less maintenance: No brush replacement means one less thing to worry about.

The first time I used the Hercules to drill through thick hardwood, I was genuinely surprised by how it maintained consistent power without bogging down—something my previous brushed drills struggled with.

Hercules Brushless Drill Specifications: By the Numbers

Before purchasing any power tool, I always dig into the specifications to ensure it can handle my needs. Here’s what the Hercules Brushless Drill offers:

• Maximum torque: 576 in-lbs (48 ft-lbs)
• Motor type: Brushless
• Voltage: 20V
• No-load speed: Two settings:
  • Low: 0-450 RPM (for high-torque applications)
  • High: 0-1,700 RPM (for faster drilling)
• Chuck size: 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck
• Clutch settings: 21-position clutch plus drill mode
• Weight: Approximately 3.1 lbs (with battery)
• Battery compatibility: Hercules 20V lithium-ion battery system
• Built-in LED light: Yes, with 20-second delay after trigger release
• Belt hook: Included, reversible for left or right-handed users

These specifications put the Hercules squarely in professional-grade territory, particularly the impressive torque rating and the versatile speed settings. The 1/2-inch chuck size also means it can accommodate larger drill bits than many competing models with 3/8-inch chucks.

How Does the Hercules Stack Up Against the Competition?

I’ve used a variety of drills over the years, from budget brands to premium names like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita. Where does the Hercules fit in this spectrum?

In terms of performance, the Hercules brushless drill competes surprisingly well with tools costing significantly more. Let me break down some direct comparisons:

Hercules vs. DeWalt (20V MAX XR)

When I tested the Hercules alongside my friend’s DeWalt 20V MAX XR, the results were eye-opening. Both drills handled all the tasks I threw at them, from drilling through 2x4s to driving 3-inch screws into hardwood.

• Torque: The DeWalt offers slightly more maximum torque (600+ in-lbs compared to the Hercules’ 576 in-lbs), but the difference was barely noticeable in practical use.
• Battery life: Both performed similarly, though the DeWalt edged ahead by about 15% in heavy-use scenarios.
• Build quality: Both feel solid and well-made, with the DeWalt having a slight edge in the robustness of its chuck.
• Price: Here’s where things get interesting—the Hercules typically costs 30-40% less than the comparable DeWalt model.

Hercules vs. Milwaukee (M18 FUEL)

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is widely regarded as a top-tier professional drill, and it shows in performance testing.

• Power: The Milwaukee offers more raw power, especially for the most demanding applications.
• Features: The Milwaukee includes more advanced features like customizable settings via smartphone app.
• Battery ecosystem: Milwaukee’s more extensive battery ecosystem is a significant advantage if you’re invested in their platform.
• Price: The Milwaukee typically costs nearly twice as much as the Hercules.

Hercules vs. Ryobi (18V ONE+)

Moving down the price scale, how does Hercules compare to more budget-friendly options like Ryobi?

• Performance: The Hercules significantly outperforms the comparable Ryobi brushless models in both power and endurance.
• Durability: After six months of regular use, my Hercules showed virtually no signs of wear, while my previous Ryobi drill had developed noticeable chuck wobble.
• Price: The Hercules costs about 20-30% more than comparable Ryobi models but delivers substantially better performance and durability.

The pattern becomes clear: the Hercules brushless drill occupies a sweet spot in the market, delivering 80-90% of the performance of premium professional brands at roughly 60-70% of the cost. For most users, including serious DIYers and even many professionals, this value proposition is compelling.

Real-World Performance: What Can the Hercules Brushless Drill Handle?

Specifications are useful, but nothing beats real-world testing. Over the past year, I’ve put my Hercules brushless drill through its paces across a wide range of applications:

Woodworking Projects

For my backyard pergola project, I needed to drill hundreds of holes and drive countless screws into pressure-treated lumber. The Hercules performed flawlessly, with plenty of power for driving 3-inch deck screws without pre-drilling. The two-speed gearbox proved invaluable—low speed for driving screws with maximum torque, high speed for drilling operations.

The 21-position clutch allowed me to dial in the perfect setting for different screw sizes, preventing both stripped screws and overdriving. For finish work, the precise trigger control gave me excellent speed regulation for delicate operations.

Metal Drilling

When I needed to install a new mailbox post with concrete anchors, the Hercules had no trouble drilling through the metal mailbox and into the concrete. Using a step bit to make holes in the steel post was smooth and efficient, though I did notice the motor getting warm after extended use (completely normal for this type of application).

Masonry Work

For lighter masonry work, like drilling holes for anchors in concrete blocks for my garden wall, the Hercules handled the task admirably when paired with the appropriate masonry bits. For extensive concrete drilling, I would still reach for a dedicated hammer drill, but for occasional holes, the Hercules proved more than capable.

Heavy-Duty Applications

The true test came when I helped a contractor friend frame an addition. We used the Hercules alongside his Milwaukee tools, and while the Milwaukee had a slight edge when drilling through multiple 2x4s simultaneously, the Hercules never once felt underpowered or struggled to complete a task.

After eight hours of continuous use, the Hercules was still going strong on its second battery, which impressed my typically brand-loyal contractor friend enough that he began researching Hercules tools for himself.

Battery Life and Charging System

One of my initial concerns about switching to the Hercules platform was battery performance. After extensive use, I’ve found the Hercules 20V lithium-ion batteries to be excellent performers:

• Runtime: With the standard 2.5Ah battery, I typically get:
  • Approximately 35-40 pocket holes on a single charge
  • Around 80-100 3-inch screws driven into softwood
  • Roughly 30-40 holes drilled through 2x4s with a 1/2-inch bit

The larger 5.0Ah battery predictably doubles these figures, making it suitable for all-day projects without frequent charging.

• Charging time: The standard charger recharges a depleted 2.5Ah battery in about 75 minutes, while the 5.0Ah battery takes approximately 120 minutes. This isn’t the fastest charging system on the market (premium brands offer rapid chargers), but it’s perfectly adequate for most users.
• Battery health indicators: I particularly appreciate the battery level indicator—four LEDs that show the remaining charge at a glance. This simple feature has saved me countless trips up and down the ladder when working on elevated projects.
• Cold weather performance: During winter projects, I noticed only a moderate decrease in performance when working in temperatures around 30°F—better than many other battery platforms I’ve used.

The Hercules battery platform is growing, with additional tools being added regularly. While it doesn’t yet have the extensive ecosystem of brands like Milwaukee or DeWalt, the core tools are covered, making it a viable platform for most users.

Where to Buy and What to Expect to Pay

The Hercules line is exclusive to Harbor Freight Tools, which can be both an advantage and limitation. The advantage is consistent pricing and warranty support; the disadvantage is fewer shopping options.

Purchasing Options:

1. In-store at Harbor Freight: This is typically the best option as you can inspect the tool and often find in-store specials not available online.
2. Harbor Freight website: Convenient, but you’ll pay shipping unless your order exceeds their free shipping threshold (typically $89).
3. Third-party marketplaces: You may occasionally find Hercules tools on platforms like eBay or Amazon, but be cautious about warranty coverage on these purchases.

Price Points:

Pricing can vary based on promotions and package options, but here’s what you can generally expect to pay (as of my last purchase):

• Drill only (no battery/charger): $89.99
• Drill with one 2.5Ah battery and charger: $119.99
• Drill with two 2.5Ah batteries and charger: $149.99
• Drill with 5.0Ah battery and charger: $149.99

Harbor Freight frequently runs promotions on their Hercules line, so strategic timing can save you 15-20%. I’ve found their coupon system and Inside Track Club membership particularly useful for maximizing savings.

Kit vs. Standalone Purchase

If you’re new to the Hercules ecosystem, the kit with battery and charger is almost always the better value. Even if you eventually plan to buy multiple Hercules tools, starting with a complete kit gives you everything needed to get started.

For those already invested in the Hercules 20V system, the tool-only option makes more sense, as the batteries are interchangeable across the platform.

The Warranty Question

Harbor Freight offers a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and a 3-year limited warranty on Hercules power tools. This is shorter than the 5-year warranties offered by some premium brands but significantly better than most tools in this price range.

My experience with Harbor Freight’s warranty service has been straightforward. When a friend’s Hercules impact driver developed a trigger issue within the warranty period, the store replaced it without hassle—just bring your receipt and the tool.

For additional peace of mind, Harbor Freight offers an extended protection plan for about $15-25 (depending on the tool’s price), which extends coverage to 2 years and includes accidental damage protection.

Practical DIY Applications: Getting the Most from Your Hercules Drill

After a year of regular use, I’ve developed some best practices for maximizing the Hercules brushless drill’s performance:

Setting Up Your Drill for Different Materials

For optimal results across different materials, I recommend the following settings:

• Softwood: Speed setting 2 (high), clutch at 5-8
• Hardwood: Speed setting 2 (high), clutch at 8-12
• Drywall anchors: Speed setting 1 (low), clutch at 4-6
• Metal drilling: Speed setting 1 (low), clutch in drill position
• Large hole saws: Speed setting 1 (low), clutch in drill position
• Driving large fasteners: Speed setting 1 (low), clutch at 15-21

Drill Bit Compatibility and Recommendations

The 1/2-inch chuck accommodates virtually all common drill bits. Through trial and error, I’ve found these pairings work particularly well with the Hercules:

• For woodworking: Bosch Daredevil spade bits and Freud Diablo twist bits provide clean holes with minimal effort.
• For metal: Titanium-coated bits from DeWalt or Milwaukee withstand the heat and torque the Hercules can generate.
• For masonry: While not its primary purpose, the Hercules works well with Bosch Blue Granite bits for occasional concrete/masonry drilling.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Reliability

To keep your Hercules brushless drill performing at its best:

1. Regular chuck cleaning: Remove the bits and blow out the chuck with compressed air monthly to prevent dust buildup.
2. Battery terminal maintenance: Keep the battery contacts clean with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.
3. Proper storage: Store the drill and batteries in a moderate-temperature environment—extreme heat or cold can affect battery performance and longevity.
4. Chuck tightening: Periodically ensure the chuck is fully tightened by closing it completely and giving it a final twist to prevent bits from slipping during use.
5. Clutch mechanism: Occasionally cycle through all clutch settings under no load to keep the mechanism operating smoothly.

Unlike brushed drills, the brushless motor requires virtually no internal maintenance—one of its major advantages.

Common Questions About the Hercules Brushless Drill

Throughout my time using and recommending the Hercules drill, I’ve fielded numerous questions from friends and fellow DIYers. Here are the most common ones:

“Is it really comparable to DeWalt/Milwaukee/Makita?”

For about 80-90% of applications, yes. In extreme or specialized professional uses, the premium brands may still have an edge, but for most users—even frequent ones—the performance difference won’t justify the price premium.

“Will the batteries last?”

After a year of regular use, my original batteries still hold a charge comparable to when they were new. The Hercules batteries use high-quality lithium-ion cells with proper battery management systems that prevent overcharging and over-discharging.

“What about spare parts and repairs?”

Harbor Freight stocks common replacement parts like chucks and triggers. For major repairs, they typically replace rather than repair within the warranty period.

“Is it worth upgrading from a brushed drill?”

If you use your drill regularly, absolutely. The combination of longer battery life, increased power, and extended motor lifespan makes the brushless technology worth the modest price premium over brushed models.

“Can it handle professional work?”

Yes, with caveats. For contractors who use their drills all day, every day, in the most demanding applications, the premium brands might offer more durability. For professionals who use drills regularly but not constantly, the Hercules represents an excellent value proposition.

Projects Perfect for the Hercules Brushless Drill

To give you a better idea of this drill’s capabilities, here are five projects I’ve completed where the Hercules brushless drill proved invaluable:

1. Deck Construction

Building my 12′ x 16′ pressure-treated deck was a true test of endurance. The Hercules drilled pilot holes and drove countless screws over a two-weekend project. The battery life was exceptional, requiring only 3-4 charges to complete the entire substructure and decking.

2. Kitchen Cabinet Installation

The precision of the clutch settings made installing upper and lower cabinets a breeze, preventing over-tightening while ensuring secure mounting. The compact head size allowed access in tight spaces between cabinets.

3. Pergola Construction

Drilling through 6×6 posts and assembling large timber joints highlighted the drill’s power. Even when creating 5/8″ holes through thick lumber, the drill maintained consistent power and speed.

4. Custom Bookshelf Project

For fine woodworking, the variable speed trigger provided excellent control for precision holes in hardwood. The LED light proved particularly useful when working in the shadowy corners of my garage workshop.

5. Fence Repair

Replacing damaged fence posts involved drilling into concrete for new anchors. While not a substitute for a hammer drill for extensive masonry work, the Hercules handled occasional concrete drilling without complaint.

My Honest Assessment: Pros and Cons

After extended use across diverse projects, here’s my candid assessment of the Hercules brushless drill:

Pros:

• Exceptional value: Professional-grade performance at a mid-range price point
• Impressive power: The 576 in-lbs of torque handles virtually any drilling or driving task
• Excellent battery life: Completes most projects on a single charge
• Durable construction: Solid build quality with minimal wear after a year of regular use
• Comfortable ergonomics: Well-balanced with comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during extended use
• Versatile features: Two-speed gearbox and 21-position clutch provide versatility across applications
• Bright LED work light: Actually useful, unlike some competitors with poorly positioned lights
• Growing ecosystem: Expanding line of compatible 20V tools

Cons:

• Limited availability: Only available through Harbor Freight
• Narrower ecosystem: Fewer specialty tools compared to established brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee
• Shorter warranty: 3 years vs. 5+ years for some premium brands
• Charging time: Standard charger is relatively slow compared to rapid chargers from premium brands
• Weight: Slightly heavier than some comparable models (though this contributes to durability)

Final Verdict: Is the Hercules Brushless Drill Right for You?

After a year of heavy use across dozens of projects, I can confidently recommend the Hercules brushless drill to most users. Here’s my breakdown of who should—and shouldn’t—buy this tool:

The Hercules Brushless Drill is perfect for:

• Serious DIYers: If you tackle multiple projects yearly and need reliable performance without breaking the bank, this drill offers the ideal balance.
• Budget-conscious professionals: Contractors looking to maximize value without sacrificing essential performance will find the Hercules an excellent choice.
• Weekend warriors upgrading from entry-level tools: The performance leap from basic drills to the Hercules brushless model is substantial and immediately noticeable.
• Homeowners tackling significant renovation projects: For major home renovations where tool quality matters but budget is also a consideration.

You might want to look elsewhere if:

• You’re already heavily invested in another battery platform: If you already own multiple tools from another 18V/20V system, the convenience of battery sharing might outweigh the Hercules’ price advantage.
• You need specialized features: If you require advanced features like electronic clutch control or smart tool tracking, premium brands offer more options.
• Your work involves extreme conditions: For the most demanding professional environments (high-volume production work, extreme weather), the top-tier professional brands might offer marginal reliability advantages.

For most users, the Hercules brushless drill represents the optimal intersection of performance, durability, and value. You could certainly spend more money, but you’d be hard-pressed to get significantly more practical performance for your additional investment.

The first time I used my Hercules to complete a challenging project—installing a heavy barn door that required drilling through thick hardwood and steel brackets—I realized I had found a tool that wouldn’t be the limiting factor in my projects. That’s perhaps the highest praise I can give any tool: it simply does what I need, when I need it, without calling attention to itself through either spectacular performance or disappointing failures.

In a world where tool manufacturers often seem to operate at the extremes—either budget tools with significant compromises or premium tools with eye-watering prices—the Hercules brushless drill occupies a refreshingly practical middle ground that serves the needs of most users exceptionally well.

If you’re in the market for a new drill that will serve you reliably for years to come, the Hercules brushless drill deserves your serious consideration. My experience suggests you’ll be pleasantly surprised by just how much performance is available without breaking the bank.