Flex Rolls Out Their First Generation 24V Compact Drills
Over the last few years, Flex 24V tools have made quite a splash in the tool industry with their robust features and impressive performance. But for all of their positive accolades, there is still one undeniable fly in the ointment—they’re heavy. In response to this, Flex has released a new compact 24V lineup that delivers dependable power in a more lightweight package. To kick things off, we’re taking an in-depth look at the all-new Flex 24V Compact Drill Driver and Hammer Drill.
Editor’s Note: Check out our best cordless drill article to see our top picks from head-to-head testing.
Flex Compact Drill Performance
- No-Load Speed: 0-500/1800 RPM
- Max Torque: 650 in-lbs.
- Impact Rate: 0-8000/28800 BPM (Hammer Drill Only)
- Chuck Capacity: 1/2 in.
- Clutch Settings: 18+1 (Drill Driver), 24+2 (Hammer Drill)
- Motor Type: Brushless
The Flex FX1131 and FX1231 are more or less identical concerning performance specs but there are a few key differences. At the heart of these drills is Flex’ sensor free brushless motor that delivers smooth, consistent power for demanding tasks. Both feature a 2-speed gearbox with a top speed of 1,800 RPMs and 650 in-lbs of torque. The hammer drill’s impact mechanism works at a rate of 8,000 BPM on low and 28,800 BPM on high.
Considering their size, those are impressive specifications and they have more power than you’re going to get out of 12V drills.
We took these drills out to our shop to see how they performed under real-world pressure. As you would expect, twist and spade bits offered little resistance, and the drill confidently powered through the material.
We also chucked up several sizes of masonry bits and drilled them into 4000 PSI concrete. To no surprise, the hammer drill handled those bits with relative ease.
Of course, while neither drill is designed to compete on the big stage with full-sized models, they can certainly hold their own in demanding situations.
Flex Compact Drill Design Notes
- Model: FX1131 (Drill Driver), FX1231 (Hammer Drill)
- Power Source: Flex 24V battery
- Drill Driver Weight: 2.5 lbs. (bare), 3.9 lbs. (with 2.5Ah battery)
- Hammer Drill Weight: 2.7 lbs. (bare), 4.1 lbs. (with 2.5 Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 5.75 in. (drill driver), 6.5 in. (hammer drill)
- Tool Height: 8.1 in.
As we mentioned earlier, these tools are nearly identical, apart from a few identifying marks and a little weight. With a 2.5Ah battery, the drill driver weighs 3.9 pounds while the hammer drill driver comes in at 4.1 pounds. They also measure 5.75 inches and 6 1/2 inches from tip to tail, respectively. This compact design comes in handy when space is limited, especially when you compare it to the full-sized Flex FX1271 Hammer Drill!
Generally speaking, I really enjoy the feel of Flex tools because of their robust and aggressive rubber overmold and how they contour nicely to my hands. In this case, they really haven’t strayed away from the formula. These drills feel really good in my hand, and that gives me a lot of confidence that they won’t slip while working, even without work gloves.
Additional Features
- LED work light
- Tether ready
Flex Compact Drill Price
The Flex 24V Compact drills are hitting the shelves now and both options carry a pretty reasonable price tag. The FX1131 drill driver kit retails for $149.99 while the FX1231 hammer drill kit goes for $169.99. Both options come with a 24V 2.5Ah battery, a single port fast charger, and a soft carry case. Flex backs these tools with the Flex Founders Limited Lifetime Warranty, but you must register them within 30 days of purchase.
The Bottom Line
Compared to their full-sized counterparts, the Flex compact drills are lighter and more nimble, but still incredibly capable. They are perfect for light to medium-duty applications where space is at a premium or a lighter tool simply proves advantageous. Granted, they aren’t as lightweight or compact as some of the 12V alternatives on the market. However, these drills deliver a surprising amount of muscle considering their size.
