DeWalt DCF887 Impact Driver
The DCF887 has been one of DeWalt's best-known impact drivers for years. Newer models now sit beside it, so the real question is whether it still deserves your money.
We research tools from manufacturer specs and long-term owner feedback. If you buy through our Amazon links we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How we make money.
The DeWalt DCF887 is a 20V MAX XR brushless impact driver rated at 1,825 in-lbs, with three speeds (1,000/2,800/3,250 RPM), 3,600 IPM, a 5.3 in body and a 2.1 lb bare weight. Its speed 1 is a Precision Drive mode for small screws. It is still a very good buy when discounted, especially as the bare DCF887B for existing DeWalt owners. Choose the DCF845 for faster driving or the DCF850 for a shorter body.
On this page
DeWalt DCF887 specs at a glance
| Spec | DeWalt DCF887 (20V MAX XR) |
|---|---|
| Rated max torque | 1,825 in-lbs (about 152 ft-lbs) |
| Speed 1 (Precision Drive) | 0-1,000 RPM |
| Speed 2 | 0-2,800 RPM |
| Speed 3 | 0-3,250 RPM |
| Impacts per minute | 0-3,600 IPM |
| Length (front to back) | 5.3 in |
| Bare weight | 2.1 lb |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Chuck | 1/4 in. hex quick-release |
| Work light | 3 LEDs |
| Battery | Any DeWalt 20V MAX |
| Warranty | 3-year limited, 1-year free service, 90-day satisfaction guarantee |
DeWalt-published specifications. Confirm current warranty terms on DeWalt's website.
The DCF887 is a full-size, three-speed brushless impact driver for general construction, remodeling and serious DIY. It drives deck screws, framing screws, lag screws with pilot holes and concrete screws without strain. Its strongest feature is range: a gentle Precision Drive setting at the bottom and a strong top speed for long fasteners. This guide is based on DeWalt's published specifications, the owner's manual and patterns in owner feedback, not hands-on testing.
Where the DCF887 fits in the DeWalt lineup
| Model | Torque | Speeds (RPM) | IPM | Length | Bare weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCF887 XR | 1,825 in-lbs | 1,000/2,800/3,250 | 3,600 | 5.3 in | 2.1 lb |
| DCF845 XR | 1,825 in-lbs | 1,500/2,800/3,400 | 4,200 | 5.1 in | 2.0 lb |
| DCF850 Atomic | 1,825 in-lbs | 1,000/2,800/3,250 | 3,600 | 4.0 in | 2.1 lb |
All three share the same rated torque. The DCF845 is the faster driver with the higher blow rate. The DCF850 matches the DCF887's performance in a body 1.3 inches shorter. The DCF887 is usually the one most heavily discounted. Full head-to-heads: DCF845 vs DCF887 and DCF887 vs DCF850.
The three speeds and Precision Drive
The speed selector on the foot of the tool sets the maximum speed; the trigger controls everything below it.
- Speed 1, Precision Drive (up to 1,000 RPM): DeWalt's manual describes it as giving greater control in lighter applications, such as cabinet hinge screws and machine screws, to avoid damaging materials or fasteners. The manual lists output in this mode at roughly 240 in-lbs, a small fraction of the full rating. If a fastener stalls, move to speed 2.
- Speed 2 (up to 2,800 RPM): general driving. Drywall screws, 2-inch wood screws, light deck work and most household fasteners.
- Speed 3 (up to 3,250 RPM): full power for 3-inch deck and framing screws, structural screws and lag screws.
For a broader look at how modes work across brands, see impact driver speed settings.
Strengths and weaknesses
DeWalt 20V MAX XR 1/4 in. 3-Speed Impact Driver (DCF887)
Best for: DeWalt owners and DIYers who want a proven, full-power impact driver at a good price.
- Torque
- 1,825 in-lbs
- Speed
- 1,000/2,800/3,250 RPM
- Impacts
- 3,600 IPM
- Length
- 5.3 in
The DCF887 has a long track record, a wide speed range and the same torque rating as DeWalt's newer models. When it is discounted below the DCF845 and DCF850, it is the value pick in DeWalt's lineup.
Strengths
- Precision Drive mode for small and delicate fasteners
- Full 1,825 in-lb rating
- Proven design with broad owner feedback
- Frequently discounted, especially in kits
- Runs on every DeWalt 20V MAX battery
Weaknesses
- Longest of DeWalt's three main 20V impacts at 5.3 in
- Lower blow rate than the DCF845 (3,600 vs 4,200 IPM)
- No advantage over the DCF850 except, sometimes, price
- Loud while impacting, like every impact driver
What owners report, and who should skip it
Patterns in owner feedback on the DCF887 are consistent. Owners praise its power for the size, the usefulness of the three-speed selector and its durability over years of use. Many mention that Precision Drive makes small screws and cabinet hardware easier than on a single-speed impact driver. Common complaints are the noise (true of every impact driver) and that the tool feels long next to newer compact models. Kit buyers sometimes note that a large 5.0 Ah pack makes the tool top-heavy for overhead work, which is why a compact pack is the better everyday match.
Skip the DCF887 if:
- You work in tight spaces daily. The DCF850's 4.0-inch body is a real advantage in cabinets and joist bays.
- You drive long screws in volume. The DCF845's 4,200 IPM drives them faster.
- You are not on DeWalt batteries and want the cheapest entry. A budget platform may cost less overall.
- You mainly need to remove lug nuts or large bolts. That is a job for an impact wrench.
Everyone else, especially existing DeWalt owners and homeowners buying a first combo kit, will be well served.
DCF887B vs kits: decoding the model codes
The letters after DCF887 tell you what is in the box. The tool itself is the same in every version.
| Version | What you get | Buy it if |
|---|---|---|
| DCF887B | Bare tool and belt hook; no battery or charger | You already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries |
| DCF887D2 | Tool, two 2.0 Ah batteries, charger, bag | You are starting out and want light packs |
| DCF887P1 | Tool, one 5.0 Ah battery, charger | You want long runtime for decking days |
| Other bundles | Combos with a drill, POWERSTACK packs and more | Check the listing for exact contents |
Suffixes follow a DeWalt convention, but bundles change. Always read the "includes" section on the listing.
If you also need a drill, a combo kit with a drill and the DCF887 is often the cheapest way to get both. See our drill and impact driver combo picks.
Best batteries for the DCF887
- Compact 2.0 Ah or POWERSTACK compact (DCBP034): the best balance of weight and runtime for everyday driving and overhead work.
- 4.0 to 5.0 Ah packs: more runtime for long days of decking or framing, with extra weight and height.
- FLEXVOLT packs: fit and work, but they are heavy and unnecessary on an impact driver.
Our DeWalt 20V battery guide explains the full range, including POWERSTACK pouch-cell packs.
How it compares, and what to pair it with
Against other brands, the DCF887 is a mid-pack performer on paper. Milwaukee's M18 FUEL 2953 is rated higher and is shorter. Makita's XDT16 is rated lower but has more control features. Torque ratings are measured differently by each brand, so compare them loosely. In practice, the DCF887 drives anything a homeowner or general contractor will throw at it.
Pair it with a good set of impact-rated bits, because a worn or non-impact bit strips screw heads and wastes power. Wear safety glasses and hearing protection when driving. Use it to snug bolts, but finish lug nuts and structural bolts with a specified torque using a torque wrench.
See the complete DeWalt impact driver guide for the rest of the lineup, including 12V models.
Verdict
The DCF887 is still a strong impact driver: full 1,825 in-lb rating, a genuinely useful Precision Drive mode and a proven design. It is no longer the best DeWalt for speed (the DCF845) or size (the DCF850), so buy it when the price is right. For existing DeWalt owners, the bare DCF887B on sale is one of the easiest recommendations in the category.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DeWalt DCF887 discontinued?
DeWalt has continued to list the DCF887 alongside the newer DCF845 and DCF850. Kit bundles and retailer stock change over time, so check the current listing. If it is ever phased out, parts and warranty service are handled through DeWalt service centers.
What is the difference between DCF887 and DCF887B?
They are the same tool. DCF887 is the model; the B suffix means bare tool, sold with a belt hook but no battery or charger. Kits use other suffixes, such as D2 for two 2.0 Ah batteries or P1 for one 5.0 Ah battery.
How many ft-lbs is the DCF887?
DeWalt rates it at 1,825 in-lbs, which is about 152 ft-lbs. Divide in-lbs by 12 to get ft-lbs. Remember that impact driver torque ratings are not standardized across brands.
Can the DCF887 remove lug nuts?
It can break loose some lug nuts, but it is not the right tool. A 1/2-inch impact wrench is far better suited. Never use an impact driver to tighten lug nuts to their final value; finish them with a torque wrench to the vehicle's specification.
Is the DCF887 brushless?
Yes. The DCF887 uses a brushless motor, like all of DeWalt's XR impact drivers. Brushless motors run cooler, are more efficient with battery power and have no brushes to wear out.