DeWalt is one of the most popular power tool brands on the planet. But if you, like many, have a DeWalt drill in your tool belt, you need to understand how it works! So let’s find out what the little 1 and 2 numbers mean on your DeWalt drill. 

The 1 and 2 on a DeWalt drill signify the speed settings. Setting 1 is the low-speed and high torque and should be used for screwing screws. On the other hand, 2 is the high-speed and low torque setting, which is the better option for drilling holes. 

Now, in this article, we are going to dive a little deeper into the details of your DeWalt drill so that you can understand exactly how it works and you can use your appliance safely and confidently! So keep reading; you are going to be a DeWalt drill expert in no time. 

What Are the Numbers on a DeWalt Drill?

The first thing you need to understand about DeWalt drills is that there are two different sets of numbers on the drill itself. 

The set of numbers that usually go from 1-10 or 1-20 around the black plastic covering around the drill bit are the clutch numbers. Adjusting the clutch will adjust the drill’s torque. The higher the number, the more power it will have. 1 and 2 on a DeWalt drill are the lowest torque settings. 

The second set of numbers, located on the top of the drill, usually have either 1-2 or 1-3 settings, and these numbers represent the speed of the drill. 

What Are the Speed Settings on a DeWalt Drill?

Now that you know that you can find the speed setting on the top of the DeWalt drill and that they usually range from 1-2 or 1-3, you probably want to know the differences between each option. 

Of course, the speed settings will change how fast the drill spins, and it is absolutely vital that you use the correct setting depending on the job at hand. 

Speed settings are important because if you use the wrong one, the drill bit can cause the screws or material to overheat. The screws themselves will break and become useless, and the material may actually burn or break as well. 

Using the wrong speed setting can also damage your DeWalt drill over time and decrease its lifespan. 

When to Use Speed Settings 1 and 2 on a DeWalt Drill

Getting to know the speed settings on your DeWalt drill through personal use and experience is essential if you want to confidently and safely use the appliance. 

However, until you can feel the speed setting yourself and adjust it accordingly, there are a few easy tips to help you understand when to use each of the speed settings. 

  • Setting 1: The low-speed and high torque option and is best for screwing screws.
  • Setting 2: A high-speed and low torque option, best for drilling holes.

While some newer DeWalt drills have a third speed setting, not all models do. However, if your DeWalt drill has a setting 3 option, it is the highest speed, and you should use it for driving fasteners or drilling. 

How to Change Speed Setting on DeWalt Drill

Finally, you need to know how and when to change the speed setting on your DeWalt drill to keep the device functioning properly. 

When changing the speed setting on a DeWalt drill, it is absolutely vital that the machine is completely stopped. If it is still running, you can damage the gears, which can do permanent damage to your drill. 

Now, once the drill has stopped, it should be extremely easy to switch the speed with just the flick of your fingers. 

However, a common problem that DeWalt owners encounter is that the speed settings on the top of the drill won’t move from 1 to 2. 

If this happens to you, you can either try to fix it yourself by following an online tutorial. Or if your drill is still under warranty, you can contact DeWalt and hopefully get their technicians to fix it for you!

The Bottom Line

So, what do 1 and 2 mean on a DeWalt drill? You know the answer to this one now! 

The numbers 1 and 2 on the top of the DeWalt drill are the speed settings. It’s important to understand that setting 1 is the lower speed, whereas setting 2 is the higher speed. 

And now, you understand what projects you should use each of these settings for and even how to change them when the drill has completely stopped. 

Just remember, using the speed setting correctly is important if you want to keep your DeWalt drill functioning properly and safely!