Published tool lengths in inches
Bars share a zero baseline. Add actual bit projection, grip, battery envelope and any required side handle before judging access.
1 · 3601-20
5.7 in
2 · 2904-20
6.9 in
Bars share a zero baseline. Add actual bit projection, grip, battery envelope and any required side handle before judging access.
Compare the specifications that change a job
3601-20 is a compact brushless drill/driver; 2904-20 is a FUEL hammer drill/driver. Both use M18, so moving between them need not create another battery platform. Pack condition, size and application still matter.
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| Item | 3601-20 | 2904-20 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5.7 in | 6.9 in |
| Published weight without battery | 2.3 lb | 3.3 lb |
| Low/high no-load speed | 0–550/0–1,700 rpm | 0–500/0–2,100 rpm |
| Published torque | 550 in-lb | 1,400 in-lb peak |
| Steel | 1/2 in | 1/2 in |
| Wood flat/auger bit | 1-1/4 / 1 in | 1-1/2 / 1-1/2 in |
| Wood hole saw | 2 in | 3-1/2 in |
| Self-feed bit | Not listed in this table | 2-9/16 in |
| Masonry | No hammer mode | 5/8 in |
| Hammer frequency | None | High 0–33,000 per minute |
Steel capacity matches, but several wood-bit capacities do not. A planned 2-1/2-inch hole saw exceeds the 3601’s 2-inch listing even if its shank fits. The 2904 lists more capacity, still subject to the bit, wood and operating conditions. A self-feed cutter cannot borrow the hole-saw row.
Allow for 30.5 mm inside a cabinet
Length differs by 1.2 inches, about 30.5 mm; published bare weight by 1 lb, about 454 g. For cabinet brackets, pilot holes and repeated small work, the 3601 offers a concrete access and handling advantage without carrying the larger tool for imaginary future tasks.
Measure hole centre to rear obstruction, add actual bit projection and check straight entry. Include planned battery envelope, fingers and room to change bits. Release the trigger, wait until fully stopped and remove the battery before a physical check. Keep it removed and use its dimensions to assess base clearance.
Include the 2904 side handle and two-hand grip envelope. Do not omit the required handle to fit a cabinet or bend the drilling line. If neither fits, reconsider assembly order or a tool intended for the position.
More capacity is not permission to force the cut
The 2904 suits people who actually need its larger listed wood holes. Secure the workpiece and match cutter, gear, permitted speed and controllable stance. AUTOSTOP assists with some over-rotation events; it does not replace the handle or correct grip and cannot eliminate all reaction.
For brick or block, establish substrate, anchor requirements, hidden services and dust controls. Hammer mode does not make every concrete job suitable. Frequent large/deep holes in hard concrete may call for a rotary hammer. The 3601 also does not gain the 3602’s functions merely because they share a manual.
Kit price includes different batteries
3601-20 lists a belt clip; 2904-20 lists side handle and belt clip. Neither includes batteries or charger. 3601-22CT has two CP2.0 packs (48-11-1820), 48-59-1812 dual-platform charger and bag. 2904-22 has two XC5.0 packs (48-11-1850), the same charger model, side handle and hard case.
Existing M18 users should confirm actual tool requirements and reliable pack condition, then compare bare tool plus missing items. New buyers should not attribute all the larger kit’s price to its drill: capacity and case differ too. Bigger packs also add weight and bulk and may not suit every assembly task.
Decide by your most frequent work
Small holes, light assembly and tight entry favour considering 3601 first. Repeated holes beyond its listed wood-bit range or confirmed suitable masonry make 2904 more relevant. Actual access, cutter type, full gripping space and usable batteries decide the purchase more reliably than torque alone.
Models referenced