With advances in lithium-ion battery and motor technology, drill manufacturers have been able to make smaller drills with big-drill power. These compact drills are perfect for furniture making, offering enough power to bore holes in hardwood and enough precision to drive brass screws without twisting their little heads off. And they are small enough to fit easily inside cases, say for installing drawer runners.

There have been a number of entries in the little-but-large category, and now Festool has joined the fray with its new lightweight CXS 10.8-volt, variable-speed drill (1.3 amp-hour battery). It did not disappoint.

First off, this baby has guts. I drilled a bunch of 5⁄16-in.-dia. holes 2 in. deep into white oak and could bore down with significant speed without stalling the motor—impressive for a drill that weighs less than 2-lb.

Along with ample power, the CXS is loaded with convenient features, one of which is Festool’s FastFix chuck system. A basic kit ($225) includes a quick-release 1⁄4-in. hex chuck, designed to be used with Festool’s line of Centrotec drill accessories, and a three-jaw keyless chuck. For $50 more, you can include a right-angle chuck that locks in 16 different positions, making it easy to deal with the most awkward of drilling or driving angles. You also can use the drill without the add-on chucks—it has a built-in hex chuck for times when youneed a shorter driver to fit into a tight spot. Because of its short length, the built-in chuck also offers more precision when driving screws in cabinet hardware.

The drill is very comfortable to hold and has a bright and well-aimed LED light on the front of the D-handle. A convenient, large belt hook can be mounted on either side of the drill.

Overall, the light weight, power, and versatility of the Festool CXS make this compact drill hard to beat. The basic kit includes the two chucks, two batteries, a charger, and a Systainer storage box. Both kits have a full three-year warranty. For more information, go to festoolusa.com.

Quick-change chucks. Festool’s FastFix system lets users change out chucks in seconds, without tools.

Small drill, big power. The CXS can drill deep holes in hardwood without bogging down.

Stub chuck. The CXS has a short built-in hex chuck that increases precision for screwing in hardware. The short length also comes in handy for working in tight spaces.

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