BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill, 5.5-Amp, 3/8-Inch (DR260C)

The Verdict

Let’s be clear about what this drill is: a $48 corded workhorse for people who want torque without battery anxiety. The BLACK+DECKER DR260C isn’t flashy, but it’s been a top seller for years for one simple reason — it gets the job done without drama. With 7,727 ratings holding steady at 4.6 stars, this is one of the most-reviewed drills in its price class. Here’s the real breakdown.

What You Actually Get

The box contains the drill itself, a side handle that screws into either side, a belt clip, and a depth rod. No case, no bits, no chuck key — because you don’t need one. The keyless 3/8-inch chuck is the standout feature here; you can tighten it by hand and swap bits in seconds. The 5.5-amp motor spins at a fixed 550 RPM, which sounds slow on paper, but that’s the secret to its power. Lower speed equals higher torque, and this thing puts out serious twisting force for its size. It weighs 3.5 pounds, so it’s not going to tire your forearm during a shelf-installation marathon.

Real-World Performance

I’ve used this drill for everything from driving 3-inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber to boring 1-inch holes through cabinet-grade plywood. The torque is genuinely surprising at this price point. It chews through softwoods and composites without complaint, and it handles mild steel with the right bit and steady pressure. One buyer put it plainly: “I’ve had this for two years and it’s drilled through everything I’ve thrown at it — concrete with a masonry bit, 2x4s, metal brackets. Never stalled once.” Another noted, “The gear reduction gives you that low-end grunt you expect from drills twice the price.”

The side handle makes a real difference for two-handed control, especially when drilling larger holes. The belt clip is sturdy enough for actual job-site use, not just decoration. The rubberized grip stays comfortable even after extended use, and the trigger has a lock-on button for continuous operation — useful for sanding attachments or mixing thinset (though you’ll want a paddle mixer for that).

Where It Falls Short

The biggest limitation is the fixed speed. There’s no variable-speed trigger, which means you can’t start a pilot hole slowly and then speed up. You’ll need to feather the trigger with a lighter touch — which works, but takes practice. For drilling into tile or glass, that lack of slow-start control is a genuine drawback; you risk skating across the surface before the bit bites.

The 6-foot cord is another annoyance. It’s fine for a workbench setup, but the moment you move into a garage or backyard, you’re hunting for an extension cord. Not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing before you buy.

The chuck collar is plastic. It grips bits securely for everyday work, but if you’re the type to wrench down with a key for heavy-duty drilling, this won’t hold up like a metal-chuck drill. It’s a tradeoff for the weight savings and price.

Who Should Buy This

• DIY homeowners who need a reliable drill for furniture assembly, hanging curtains, and light renovation — you’ll use this for years.
• First-time drill buyers who want corded reliability over battery convenience. No charging, no battery degradation, just plug in and work.
• Budget-conscious renters who don’t want to invest in a battery platform they won’t expand.

Skip it if you need variable speed for delicate work, if you’re doing heavy metal fabrication daily, or if you absolutely need cordless portability for working on ladders or tight spaces.

FAQ

Is this drill good for concrete?
With a masonry bit, yes — for occasional holes in brick or block. For frequent concrete drilling through rebar, get a hammer drill. This is a standard drill, not an impact driver or hammer drill.

Does it come with a case?
No. It ships in a cardboard box with the accessories. Budget for a tool bag or case if you need organized storage.

What bits fit?
Any 3/8-inch or smaller round-shank bit, plus hex-shank driver bits seat directly in the keyless chuck. Standard 1/4-inch hex bits click in without an adapter.

The Verdict

Buy it if you want a dependable, torque-heavy corded drill for under $50 and don’t need variable speed. Skip it if precision control or portability are non-negotiable.

The DR260C has earned its 4.6-star rating through sheer reliability. It’s not the most refined tool on the market, but it drills, drives, and mixes without fuss — and it’ll likely outlast your enthusiasm for the DIY project you bought it for. At $48.88, it’s hard to argue with the value.

Rating: 4.6/5 — Recommended for the pragmatic DIYer who values torque and simplicity over bells and whistles.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.