Can't quit yer 18v Dewalt tools? - Daily Hammer and Home

Heavily invested in the 18-volt platform? You don’t need to switch out your tools, even though 18-volt batteries are going the way of the dodo.

Still in love with your 18-volt Dewalt power tools? We get it.

Brad’s still using his ol’ half-inch impact driver almost every day. Because it’s still going strong after 15 years of hard labor.

But what’s an 18-volt aficionado to do, now that Dewalt has discontinued their 18V XRP Li-ion battery (DC9180)?

Not only that, they’ve officially stopped manufacturing their 18V NiCad cordless power tool system, and expect their remaining NiCad batteries to be phased out by March 2022.

All aboard! It’s time to get on the 20V train!

But that doesn’t mean you have to give up your 18V tools.
Brad, Loves a Cost-Effective Shortcut

Dewalt has created an 18V to 20V adapter, the DCA1820.

Simply slap it onto the bottom of any 18V tool, and presto! You’re ready to fire that sucker up with a 20V battery.

The adapter is compatible with Dewalt 20V Max batteries up to 5.0Ah.

It doesn’t add any extra weight, but of course you’ll need some 20V batteries now, and a charger to go with it. We like the Dewalt Battery Starter Kit, because it comes with two 5-amps and a charger, plus a handy-dandy bag.

Plus it often seems to be for sale at a reduced price on that shopping website we are alllll addicted to that begins with A.

It’s a gentle way for slow adopters of new technology to make the transition to brushless.

Pro tip from Brad: if you can, buy an adaptor for each 18V tool you’re still using. They can be a little sticky if you’re swapping ’em between tools.

See the adapter for yourself!