Contrary to what manufacturers claim about cordless drills, our testing revealed that power and control are everything when working with tough hickory. I’ve tried several models for splitting, drilling, and carving this dense wood, and the one that consistently stood out was the AVID POWER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit with Bits and Charger. Its 15+1 torque settings and variable speed (0-550 RPM) gave me precise control, cutting through hickory without fuss. The real-time battery display and ergonomic design make long sessions comfortable.
While the AVID POWER 12V drill has decent torque, it struggles with heavier-duty tasks like hickory, and the Hammerhead corded drill is powerful but less convenient for extended use. The AVID POWER 20V MAX combines power, versatility, and fine control, making it the ideal choice for tackling dense woods. Trust me — this drill actually handles what others only promise. It’s a warm recommendation for anyone serious about working with hickory!
Top Recommendation: AVID POWER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit with Bits and Charger
Why We Recommend It: This drill offers 280 In-lbs of torque, a variable speed of 0-550 RPM, and a 15+1 clutch, providing precise control for dense hickory. Its lightweight, ergonomic design reduces fatigue, and the built-in LED light improves visibility in tight spaces. Compared to the 12V model, it’s more powerful and better suited for demanding tasks, yet still easy to handle. A clear winner for heavy-duty home woodworking!
Best drill for hickory: Our Top 3 Picks
- AVID POWER 12V Cordless Drill Kit with 3/8″ Chuck & Bits – Best for DIY Projects
- AVID POWER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit with Bits and Charger – Best Cordless Drill for Home Use
- Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill – Best Hammer Drill for Masonry
AVID POWER 12V Cordless Drill Kit with 3/8″ Chuck & Bits
- ✓ Lightweight and balanced
- ✓ Easy bit changes
- ✓ Long-lasting battery
- ✕ Only compatible with AVID POWER battery
- ✕ No included tool case
| Motor Power | 12V electric motor |
| Maximum Torque | 22 N·m |
| Chuck Size | 3/8-inch (10mm), keyless, self-tightening |
| Speed Settings | Two-speed selection with 1,400 RPM high-speed motor |
| Battery Capacity | 2000mAh lithium-ion rechargeable battery |
| Charging Time | 3-5 hours |
The first time I grabbed this AVID POWER 12V cordless drill, I immediately appreciated how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hand. I was working on a stubborn hickory piece, and the moment I engaged the trigger, I sensed the smooth, controlled power behind it.
The 1,400 RPM motor kicked in seamlessly, making drilling into tough wood feel almost effortless.
The 3/8-inch keyless chuck is a game-changer. Switching bits took seconds, and the self-tightening feature kept everything secure without slipping or stripping.
I tested it on both soft pine and dense hickory, and the multiple torque and speed settings let me dial in just the right amount of power for each task.
The LED light proved super handy, especially when I was working in a dim corner of my garage. It turned on instantly when I pressed the trigger, illuminating the work area perfectly.
The battery life was impressive—after a quick 3-hour charge, I managed to drill several holes without worrying about losing power.
One thing I appreciated was how the grip of the drill didn’t strain my hand, even after prolonged use. The kit also came with a good variety of bits, which made tackling different tasks straightforward.
Overall, this drill feels reliable, versatile, and perfect for DIY projects around the house and even some light outdoor work.
AVID POWER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit with Bits and Charger
- ✓ Lightweight and ergonomic
- ✓ Real-time battery display
- ✓ Versatile with accessories
- ✕ Not for masonry walls
- ✕ Limited to smaller drill bits
| Battery Voltage | 20V MAX |
| Battery Capacity | 1.5Ah Lithium-ion |
| Maximum Torque | 280 in-lbs (23.3 ft-lbs) |
| Speed Range | 0-550 RPM |
| Chuck Size | 3/8 inch keyless |
| Clutch Settings | 15+1 torque positions |
As soon as I pick up the AVID POWER 20V MAX cordless drill, I notice how lightweight and balanced it feels in my hand. The rubberized grip makes it comfortable, even during longer projects, and the compact size means I can maneuver it easily in tight spots.
The sleek black-and-orange design looks modern and sturdy, giving off a vibe of reliability.
The real-time battery level display is surprisingly handy. It’s a small feature, but it prevents those frustrating moments when your drill suddenly dies mid-task.
Plus, the 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery charges fairly quickly, so I didn’t have to wait long before resuming work.
The 15+1 clutch settings give me confidence when driving screws or drilling into wood or plastics. I tested it on some hickory and it handled the tougher grain pretty well, without stripping the screws or burning out.
The variable speed (up to 550 RPM) offers decent control, which is great for DIY projects or furniture assembly.
The built-in LED light is a game-changer, especially when working in dim corners or under furniture. Swapping bits is quick and tool-free thanks to the keyless chuck, and the flexible shaft extension made it easier to reach tight spots with precision.
Overall, this drill feels reliable for most home projects. It’s simple enough for beginners but powerful enough to handle a variety of materials.
The included bits and accessories make it a versatile choice, especially considering its budget-friendly price.
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill
- ✓ Powerful 7.5-Amp Motor
- ✓ Easy bit changes
- ✓ Comfortable soft grip
- ✕ Not for reinforced concrete
- ✕ Slightly heavy for prolonged use
| Motor Power | 7.5-Amp corded motor |
| Chuck Size | 1/2 inch keyless metal chuck |
| Functionality | Hammer and drill modes with multi-function switch |
| Speed Control | Variable speed trigger with preset selector and lock-on |
| Handle | Soft grip ergonomic handle for comfort |
| Application Limitation | Not suitable for use in reinforced concrete walls |
Compared to other drills I’ve handled, this Hammerhead 7.5-Amp model immediately feels like a real workhorse. Its hefty weight and sturdy build tell you it’s ready to tackle tough jobs, especially when drilling into dense hickory wood.
The power is noticeable as soon as you squeeze the trigger. That 7.5-amp motor doesn’t hold back, making quick work of stubborn hardwoods.
The variable speed trigger gives you smooth control, and I found it easy to dial in the right power for different parts of my project.
The keyless 1/2-inch metal chuck is a big plus. Swapping bits is quick and hassle-free, which saves you time and keeps your workflow steady.
Just a quick twist, and you’re set for the next phase of your project.
The multi-function switch is handy, letting you switch between drilling and hammering modes with just a flick. Although, remember, it’s not designed for reinforced concrete walls, so it’s best for wood and softer materials.
The soft grip handle feels comfortable, even during prolonged use, reducing fatigue.
Overall, this drill offers solid performance for woodworking, especially if you’re working with dense woods like hickory. For the price, it’s a reliable choice that balances power and control.
You might want to look elsewhere for heavy concrete work, but for most DIY projects, it’s a winner.