Panasonic EY6406FQKW 12 Volt 3/8-Inch Cordless Hyperformance Drill Kit with 2 Ni-CAD Batteries

by Panasonic

Product Description

Amazon.com Review

Impressively compact, lightweight, and comfortable to use, Panasonic's 12-volt drill/driver fits into tight spaces where other (bulkier) drills won't. But what really sets this drill apart from the competition is its unique electronic speed control. Unlike other 12-volt drills, this Panasonic delivers full torque at any speed, so you can apply up to 293 inch-pounds of torque while still maintaining control. This drill is a smart buy for plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and even woodworkers--in short, anyone who wants a small, compact drill that packs a lot of torque and is built to last. It weighs just over 4 pounds (with battery) and is (only!) 8 inches long. The hard-rubber handle is very easy to grip during constant use, even if you have smallish hands. In addition, the forward/reverse switch is easy to reach with your trigger hand. In fact, the tool's superior ergonomic design--never mind its great performance--is enough win some people over. The tool lacks an onboard bit holder, but that's about all it lacks. The package includes two ni-cad batteries, the 45-minute charger, and a high-impact plastic carrying case. Even the case is well designed, as it features replaceable clips. --Jon Groebner

From the Manufacturer

This tool is an ergonomic delight, 12% smaller and 7% lighter than previous models. It weights just over 4 pounds and is only 8 inches long, but it has a huge 290 inches/pounds of torque in low gear and 1300 rpm in high. This tool features a lightweight 3/8 inch keyless chuck, an 18-stage clutch, an electronic brake, a full torque speed control, and a rubberized grip. These features add up to provide a precision drilling and driving tool you can use all day. The kit includes two Ni-CAD batteries, the Hyperformance drill, a high impact plastic carrying , and a 45 minute charger.

Product Details

Product Manual [547kb PDF]

• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
• ASIN: B0000223JO
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: EY6406FQKW
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #794,728 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars My 12th electric drill, June 12, 2000

By 

Paul C. (Seattle) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Panasonic EY6406FQKW 12 Volt 3/8-Inch Cordless Hyperformance Drill Kit with 2 Ni-CAD Batteries (Tools & Home Improvement)

This is a great tool. The ergonomics are terrific, not top-heavy like the Dewalts. A nice compact handle (better than Makitas). The chuck design is very nice. you hold the tool by the grip with one hand and free the bit with the other by twisting the chuck base. You don't have to use both hands on the chuck and wring it like a dishrag to free the bit.

Overall construction of the tool is good. it is quite rugged and seems new after about 6 months of use. Power and speed control are very good---the tool gives a funny whine when at low speeds, almost like a stepper motor, but allows precise low speed with full torque. The clutch function is great--highly repeatable screw drive depths in hardwoods and drywall.

I have (or have worn out) drills made by Bosch, Milwaukee, Porter Cable, Sioux, Black and Decker :( and Craftsman :(. This Panasonic drill is in the top tier of high-quality cordless drills. The only drill I like better is my Sioux close-quarters drill (it has a cord).

My big beef: I have two nice Bosch cordless drills, a 7.2V and 9.6V. They are old but mechanically fine. Unbelievably, nobody sells batteries for them anymore. Bosch will not provide batteries for them at any price. This just frosts me. I wonder if Panasonic will sell replacement batteries 5 years from now.

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Predecessor of this drill was used by NASA in outer spa, January 11, 2000

By 

Serge Kavetsky "Mr. Fix-it" (New Jersey) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Panasonic EY6406FQKW 12 Volt 3/8-Inch Cordless Hyperformance Drill Kit with 2 Ni-CAD Batteries (Tools & Home Improvement)

I have had the older 12V Panasonic drill for five years now and can't live without it. It is light so that you can use it all day and yet powerful enough to snap #8 x 3" screw heads off if you don't pre drill the holes. The 45 minute charger is a real blessing too, because no mater how hard you work the drill, the recharger has a battery ready way before you need it.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The precision instrument of Drill Motors, June 12, 2001

By 

Leslie G. Ekker (Movietown, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Panasonic EY6406FQKW 12 Volt 3/8-Inch Cordless Hyperformance Drill Kit with 2 Ni-CAD Batteries (Tools & Home Improvement)

I have had this drill (actually it's predecessor) for over 10 years. I bought it just as I started working on "Hook", the movie. It had one feature I found too compelling not to try: the speed controller gives FULL or MAXIMUM TORQUE at ALL speeds! That means you don't have to give it more gas to twist harder. That translates into control! Fine, precise control. Amazing. Now after all those years of super hard use, I must replace it. The batteries are ready for the recycler. I am going to get the 15.6V 1/2" model to replace it, and I am sure it will ROCK! Way to go Panasonic! As a Product Designer (too) I applaud your work!

(PS: The main shaft could be harder, as mine bent slightly after a drop...but it still makes Makita owners blanche!)

Leslie Ekker, SFX Modelmaker