Hilti is known for their quality powder actuated tools (PAT).  The Hilti DX2 is a great all around tool that will fit the bill for most homeowners and contractors.  If you are familiar with the Hilti DX350 and appreciate what a real workhorse that tool was, you will love the DX2.  This review will give you a brief overview of the tool and help you find a good deal on the tool.  You typically won’t find the Hilti DX2 in a big box store.  Hilti really gears there business towards contractors.  First let’s take a look at the tool and then take a look at how buy one.

Without getting into a bunch of details, let’s take a look at what most users would use the tool for.  The most common application for PAT tools is fastening wood to concrete.  2x material to concrete to be specific.  There are more trade specific applications but for the homeowner and small contractor, fastening 2×4’s to concrete is the main use.  FYI, PAT tools including the Hilti DX2 does a great job of fastening 2x material to I-beams and columns as well.    The DX2 is a .27 caliber strip tool.  Of course Hilti would prefer you use their loads but the .27 caliber strip loads you find in big box store fit the tool.  The tool does not have power adjustment.  To adjust power, you use different color loads.  Start with green, then move to yellow and finally red until you are setting the nail completely.  As for nail size it will handle a 2-1/2” pin with a washer which is perfect for 2×4’s to concrete.

So if you can’t get a DX2 in the big box store, where can you buy one?  You may be surprised but Ebay really can be a good place to find them used and even new.  I would have no problem buying a used Hilti DX2 online from a reputable seller.  You need be a little caution though as some sellers just list tools without even knowing what they are or if they work or not.  They may say they work or are in good working order but l have seen more than one PAT that is claimed to be in good working order when it is obviously missing the front of the tool.   Check the picture and make sure it is a reputable seller that will stand behind the tool.  If the tool comes with some pins and loads that’s a plus.  If the tool comes with an extra drive piston, that’s a nice plus as well.   You can buy the tool from Hilti and if you do a bunch of shooting, they will likely cut you a better deal.  For most of us, we can get a used tool that will serve us for many years at a good price on Ebay.

So there you have it.  If you are looking for a quality PAT that is built for everyday use consider the Hilti DX2.  Buying one used is a great way to buy a true contractor grade tool that will outlast many of the lower quality tools you may find at the big box stores.