Flex Adds Two Powerful Right Angle Drills To The 24V Power Tool Lineup
We’ve tested and reviewed quite a few of Flex’s 24V tools since the line first debuted back in 2021. From the get-go, these tools displayed enough power and strength to quickly catapult them into our pro-grade category. Keeping with tradition, the latest wave of Flex 24V tools brought with it two beefy Right Angle Drills—one full-sized two-speed model as well as a compact version.
Flex Right Angle Drill Performance
The Flex FX1681 2-Speed Right Angle Drill is designed to be an all-day workhorse. This 1/2-inch drill delivers up to 2,500 inch-pounds of torque for demanding 6-1/4 inch plumbing rough-in applications. The brushless motor produces up to 400 RPMs on low and up to 1,350 RPMs on high. Engaging the Turbo mode bumps the top speed up to 1,650 RPMs for high-speed drilling applications.
Similarly, the Flex FX1671 produces 1,350 RPMs, and 1,650 RPMs with the Turbo mode engaged. Additionally, it produces a respectable 1,680 inch-pounds of torque for drilling holes up to 4 inches. The compact profile is ideal for electricians running conduit when space is at a premium.
The sheer strength of these drills can be slightly intimidating, so safety features are a must-have. Flex includes anti-kickback protection on both of these models that will immediately stop rotation if it senses a bind-up. Additionally, both models feature large front pommels, and the larger FX1681 comes with a stout auxiliary handle that can mount on either side of the drill for extra support.
For best performance, Flex recommends going no smaller than a 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery. This will help your get the most out of your tool and maximize the power to weight ratio.
Drilling Capacity Reference Guide
| Bit Type | Flex FX1671 | Flex FX1681 |
| Auger Bit | 1-1/2 in. | 2 in. (low/high) |
| Self Feed Bit | 2-9/16 in. | 4-5/8 in. (low/high) |
| Hole Saw | 4 in. | 6-1/4 in. (low), 6 in. (high) |
| Twist (metal) | 7/16 in. | 1/2 in. (low), 7/16 in. (high) |
Flex Right Angle Drill Design Notes
One look at these drills and it’s clear that they mean business. The FX1681 measures measures 21-3/4 inches from end to end while the more compact FX1671 is 18-1/4 inches long. Due to their size, neither one is a featherweight either, weighing 13.75 pounds and 10.3 pounds, respectively, with a 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery. With a tool of this nature, “lightweight” really isn’t in the cards. However, both models feature a manesium gearbox that adds to their durability and shaves a little weight off the bottom line.
One thing to keep in mind is that the weight of these tools can really be an advantage. They are typically used in an attic or other tight spaces where you can’t gain the leverage on it to push through the hole. In this case, gravity can help do some of the work for you.
Like we mentioned earlier, both of these drills are very ergonomically sound. The main handles and front pommels are all draped in a textured rubber overmold that improves your grip while the tools are in use. The grips also feature large grooves to help channel away sweat and debris.
Additional Features
- LED work lights
- Onboard chuck key storage
- Folding rafter hook
Flex Right Angle Drill Price
The Flex 24V FX1671 and FX1681 Right Angle Drills are both available as bare tools at your local Lowe’s for $299 and $429, respecively. Both are eligible for the Flex Limited Lifetime Warranty so be sure to register your tools within 30-days of purchase.
The Bottom Line
Speaking objectively, there’s really no denying the Flex 24V tools tend to be a bit heavier than the competition, but I believe we’re truly looking at situation where that weight is a real benefit! Both of these drills are well balanced, ergonomically sound, and possess more than enough power to compete in a professional setting. If you’re already on the Flex 24V platform, or you’re looking for competent cordless replacement, you don’t want to overlook the Flex 24V Right Angle Drills.
Flex Compact Right Angle Drill FX1671
- No-Load Speed: 0-1350 RPMs
- Turbo Speed: 0-1650 RPMs
- Max Torque: 1680 in-lbs.
- Drilling Capacity: 4 in. (wood)
- Chuck: 1/2 in. Metal Keyed
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Tool Length: 18-1/4 in.
- Weight: 8.0 lbs. (bare), 10.3 lbs (with 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery)
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
- Price: $299 (bare tool)
Flex Right Angle Drill FX1681
- No-Load Speed: 0-400/1350 RPMs
- Turbo Speed: 0-490/1650 RPMs
- Max Torque: 2400 in-lbs.
- Drilling Capacity: 6-1/4 in. (wood)
- Chuck: 1/2 in. Metal Keyed
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Tool Length: 21-3/4 in.
- Weight: 11.5 lbs. (bare), 13.75 lbs. (with 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery)
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
- Price: $429 (bare tool)
