What was recalled
In the world of home improvement and DIY projects, power tools are essential companions that help us build, repair, and create. However, on November 1, 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving several popular models of hammer drills and drill drivers. This recall is not limited to a single brand but spans across three major names in the power tool industry: Porter-Cable, Black & Decker, and Bostitch. The common thread connecting these diverse products is a specific component—the side handle—that was found to be defective and potentially dangerous.
The items affected by this recall are specific models of ½-inch hammer drills and drill drivers. For those who own Porter-Cable tools, the affected model is the PC70THD, which is described as a ½ Inch VSR 2-Speed Hammer Drill. Visually, you can identify these units by their distinctive gray body with red accents. If you use Black & Decker equipment, the recall covers the DR560 model, known as a ½ Inch Drill/Driver. These particular units are characterized by their bright orange color with black accents. Finally, Bostitch consumers need to check if they own models BTE140 or BTE141, which are ½ Inch Hammer Drills identifiable by their yellow bodies with black accents.
A critical detail in this recall is that the issue lies specifically with the side handles supplied with these drills. These handles are made of black plastic and are designed to attach to the side of the drill to provide stability and control during operation. While they appear to be standard accessories, the ones included with the recalled models are the source of the problem. The recall notice indicates that consumers purchased these tools at various retail locations across the United States. If you have one of these specific model numbers in your garage or workshop, it is vital to verify whether the side handle attached to it is part of this batch.
The scope of this recall is substantial, impacting thousands of users who rely on these tools for stability and safety. The side handles are crucial for maintaining a firm grip, especially when the drill encounters resistance. Without a secure handle, the tool can twist unexpectedly in your hands. This recall serves as an urgent reminder to inspect your power tools regularly. If you own any of the aforementioned models—Porter-Cable PC70THD, Black & Decker DR560, or Bostitch BTE140/BTE141—you should stop using them immediately until you can obtain a replacement handle through the official recall process.
The hazard, explained
When you are using a powerful tool like a hammer drill, your hands are the primary interface between your body and the machine. The side handle is not just an accessory; it is a critical safety component designed to act as a stabilizer. In normal operation, this handle allows you to brace yourself against the torque and vibration generated by the drill bit. However, in this specific recall, the physical integrity of that black plastic side handle is compromised. The issue is twofold: the handle can either slip off its mounting point or, more dangerously, break completely under stress.
To understand why this is so hazardous, it helps to look at how hammer drills work. These tools are engineered to deliver high levels of rotational force (torque) combined with rapid percussive impacts. When the drill bit meets resistance—whether in concrete, masonry, or even dense wood—the tool pushes back against the user’s hands. This reaction force is sudden and intense. The side handle is supposed to absorb this energy by giving you a second point of contact. When that handle slips or breaks, you lose that second point of contact instantly.
Without the stability provided by the side handle, the drill can twist violently in your hand. This loss of control means the tool may jerk unexpectedly, potentially causing the drill bit to slip off the intended target and strike nearby objects, including your fingers, arms, or face. More critically, the sudden torque can wrench your wrist or shoulder out of alignment. As noted in the incident reports, this physical mechanism has already resulted in a torn rotator cuff injury. This type of soft-tissue damage occurs when the muscles and tendons around the shoulder are stretched beyond their capacity due to an uncontrolled, forceful movement.
The risk is heightened because these injuries often happen without warning. The side handle may appear secure until the moment it fails, leaving you with no time to react or brace properly. For a tool that operates at high speeds and delivers significant impact forces, even a fraction of a second of instability can lead to serious physical harm. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Black & Decker are treating this as an immediate injury hazard rather than a minor defect.
Furthermore, the materials involved play a role in the severity of the risk. The side handles are made of black plastic, which, while lightweight and durable under normal conditions, may not withstand the specific stress concentrations generated by these particular models when used for extended periods or under heavy load. When the plastic fails, it does not just disappear; it can leave sharp edges or become a projectile if it breaks apart, adding laceration risks to the already significant trauma risks of losing control of a spinning power tool.
In summary, the hazard is not merely that the handle might come off. It is that the failure of this component removes your ability to manage the machine’s power, turning a controlled tool into an unpredictable danger. The combination of high torque, impact vibration, and the sudden loss of stabilization creates a perfect storm for injury. This is why immediate action is required to replace the side handle with a properly engineered replacement that can withstand the operational demands of these drills.
Who is most at risk
When we look at the specific details of this recall, it is important to understand that the risk is not limited to professional contractors working in high-stakes environments. While anyone using these tools faces a potential safety issue, certain groups are particularly vulnerable due to the nature of the defect and the physical demands of operating power tools. The primary group at risk includes homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional tradespeople who have purchased Porter-Cable model PC70THD, Black & Decker model DR560, or Bostitch models BTE140 and BTE141 hammer drills. These individuals are using the tools for tasks that often involve drilling into hard materials like masonry or metal, situations where maintaining a firm grip is critical to both safety and job quality.
The specific hazard here—the side handle slipping or breaking—creates a unique danger profile because it directly impacts the user’s ability to control the tool. When you are operating a ½ inch hammer drill, especially one with two speeds, you are dealing with significant torque and vibration. The side handle is not merely an accessory; it is a crucial anchor point that allows you to brace yourself against the force of the machine. If that black plastic handle fails while the drill is engaged, the tool can twist violently in your hand. This sudden loss of control can cause the drill bit to slip off the target surface, potentially striking the user’s body or causing them to lose their balance. Therefore, anyone who relies on stability and precision during use is at heightened risk.
Vulnerable populations include those with less physical strength or dexterity, such as older adults or individuals recovering from previous injuries. For example, the recall notice already documents one report of a torn rotator cuff injury. This specific type of injury often occurs when the shoulder muscles are suddenly stretched or strained due to an unexpected pull from a tool that has slipped. Older users, who may have naturally weaker muscle mass or less bone density in their shoulders and wrists, are more susceptible to these kinds of soft-tissue and joint injuries. The shock of a handle breaking can also lead to secondary injuries, such as falls if the user is working on a ladder or unstable surface.
Furthermore, novice users who may not have developed the muscle memory to react quickly to a tool malfunction are at greater risk. Experienced users might instinctively brace themselves better, but a sudden failure of the side handle can still overpower even seasoned professionals. Children should never be allowed to use these tools, but parents and guardians must also be vigilant about storing them safely, as the temptation for children to experiment with power tools is real. In summary, anyone who values their physical safety while undertaking home improvement projects or professional work should take this recall seriously, regardless of their skill level.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer support, the most critical step is to verify whether your specific tool falls within the scope of this recall. Because Black & Decker manufactures these tools under several different brand names and model variations, relying on memory or a general description like “hammer drill” is not enough. You need to find the exact model number printed on the unit itself. This information is typically located on a label attached to the body of the tool, often near the base where the battery attaches or along the side of the motor housing. If your tool has been cleaned frequently, check for any peeling stickers or faded ink that might have rubbed off over time.
The recall specifically targets three distinct brands and their corresponding model numbers. First, check if you own a Porter-Cable hammer drill. These units are gray with red accents. The specific model to look for is the PC70THD, which is a ½ Inch VSR 2-Speed Hammer Drill. Second, inspect your tool for the Black & Decker brand. These models are orange with black accents. You need to confirm if the model number is DR560, identified as a ½ Inch Drill/Driver. Finally, look for the Bostitch brand. These drills are yellow with black accents and come in two specific model variants: BTE140 or BTE141, both of which are ½ Inch Hammer Drills.
While the model number is the primary identifier, you can also use visual cues to help narrow down your search. The side handle itself is made of black plastic and attaches to the side of the drill to provide stability during use. If you have one of the color-coded tools listed above—gray with red, orange with black, or yellow with black—and it has a black plastic side handle, there is a strong possibility it is part of this recall. However, do not assume your tool is safe just because it looks different. The only way to be certain is to match the alphanumeric model code on the label against the list provided in the official recall notice.
If you cannot find a label or if the text has become illegible due to wear and tear, take clear photographs of the tool from multiple angles, including any serial number plates. You can then contact Black & Decker directly at 888-284-3070 (available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) or via email at recall@sbdinc.com. They can help you verify the model based on your photos or serial number. Alternatively, you can visit www.portercable.com and click “Safety Notices and Recalls,” www.blackanddecker.com and click “Safety Recalls,” or www.bostitch.com and click “Safety Recalls” to enter your details online for confirmation.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the affected tools, your first and most critical action is to stop using the hammer drill immediately. This isn’t a suggestion to wait until the battery runs out or to finish your current project; it is an urgent safety directive. The recall stems from a specific mechanical failure where the side handle can slip or break during operation. When that happens, you lose control of the tool, which can lead to serious injury. By putting the drill down right now and leaving it in a place where no one in your household will accidentally pick it up to use, you eliminate the risk entirely. Do not attempt to tighten the handle yourself or try to force it to stay in place with extra tape or tools. The design defect is intrinsic to the part supplied with these specific models, so manual adjustments will not fix the underlying hazard.
Once the tool is safely stored away, you need to initiate the remedy process by contacting Black & Decker directly. They have set up a dedicated support system specifically for this recall to ensure you get the correct replacement parts without any cost to you. You can reach their customer service team by phone at 888-284-3070. It is helpful to know that their representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle this via email or if you have questions that don’t require immediate live assistance, you can also write to them at recall@sbdinc.com. Having your model number ready before you call will speed up the process significantly, as it confirms exactly which part you need.
In addition to calling or emailing, you can visit the official safety notices pages online to get more detailed instructions and verify your eligibility. Depending on which brand of tool you own, you should go to the specific website associated with that brand: www.portercable.com, www.blackanddecker.com, or www.bostitch.com. On these sites, look for the "Safety Notices and Recalls" or "Safety Recalls" section. These pages will guide you through the final steps of getting your free replacement side handle. Black & Decker is providing this replacement at no charge because they are taking full responsibility for the defective component. By following these steps, you ensure that your tool can be safely used again once the proper, reinforced handle is installed.
While you wait for your new part to arrive, keep the original side handle separate from the drill. You might be tempted to leave it attached for storage, but if the defect causes it to break off while the tool is being moved or stored, it could become a projectile or cause a trip hazard. Store the entire unit, including the defective handle, in a garage, shed, or closet where children or pets cannot access it. Once your free replacement handle arrives, follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully. This usually involves removing the old handle and securing the new one firmly according to the specified torque or click-fit mechanism. Only after the new handle is securely attached should you resume using your hammer drill.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
The good news is that the manufacturer has established a straightforward and cost-free remedy for this recall. You do not need to return your entire tool, nor are you required to pay for shipping or parts to resolve this issue. Black & Decker has committed to providing a free replacement side handle to every consumer who owns one of the affected models. This approach is designed to be as convenient and low-friction as possible, ensuring that the safety risk is eliminated without creating a financial burden or significant inconvenience for you. The company recognizes that the primary barrier to compliance is often the effort required to fix a product, so they have structured the process to minimize both.
To initiate this remedy, you must contact Black & Decker directly through one of their designated support channels. You can call their dedicated recall hotline at 888-284-3070. It is important to note that this line operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to submit documentation online, you may email them directly at recall@sbdinc.com. The company has also updated their websites to facilitate this process. Depending on which brand of drill you own, you should visit the specific safety notices page for that brand: click "Safety Notices and Recalls" on www.portercable.com, "Safety Recalls" on www.blackanddecker.com, or "Safety Recalls" on www.bostitch.com.
When you reach out to them, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit. The recall covers distinct models across three brands: the Porter-Cable PC70THD, the Black & Decker DR560, and the Bostitch BTE140 and BTE141. Having your model number ready will help them verify your eligibility quickly. Once your claim is processed, they will send you the new side handle at no charge. This free replacement is the complete remedy for this recall; there are no partial refunds or store credits involved because the issue is strictly mechanical and can be fully resolved by swapping out the faulty component.
Why is this specific remedy sufficient? The hazard identified by the CPSC is that the original side handle can slip or break, which compromises your grip and control over the drill. By installing a new, reinforced handle, the structural integrity of the tool is restored. You do not need to replace the motor, the battery, or the main body of the drill because those components are functioning correctly. The problem is isolated entirely to the attachment point. Therefore, sending you just the handle is the most logical and efficient solution. It addresses the root cause of the injury risk while allowing you to keep using your existing power tool for future projects.
Please be aware that this offer stands as of the recall date of November 1, 2018. If you are reading this long after that date, it is still worth contacting them, but availability and policy details may have evolved. However, based on the official record, the commitment remains a free replacement part. Do not attempt to source generic side handles from other retailers as a substitute, as they may not fit your specific model or meet the same safety standards. Sticking to the official channel ensures that you receive a part that is guaranteed to work with your tool and resolves the liability issue entirely.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a piece of plastic hardware and assume that ignoring a recall notice is merely an inconvenience—a minor hassle involving customer service calls and waiting for a replacement part. However, when dealing with power tools like hammer drills, the stakes are significantly higher than simple frustration or delayed project timelines. The core issue here is not just about the drill failing to perform its job efficiently; it is about the sudden and unpredictable loss of control over a high-torque machine. By continuing to use these specific models without the corrected side handle, you are essentially stripping away a critical safety mechanism designed to stabilize the tool during operation.
The hazard described in this recall is deceptively simple: the side handle can slip or break. While that might sound like a minor mechanical glitch, in the context of a hammer drill, it translates directly into a loss of control. Hammer drills exert significant rotational force and percussive impact. When you are drilling into hard materials like concrete, brick, or stone, the tool naturally wants to twist away from your grip. The side handle is there to anchor that torque, allowing you to maintain a firm, two-handed hold. If that handle slips or snaps off unexpectedly, the drill’s reaction force takes over. Your hand may be thrown forward or twisted violently, and the tool itself can jerk unpredictably.
This lack of control is what leads to serious physical injury. The data from Black & Decker highlights this reality with sobering clarity: they have received eleven reports of side handles slipping or breaking, and critically, one confirmed report of a torn rotator cuff injury. A torn rotator cuff is not a superficial scrapes or bruises; it is a significant musculoskeletal injury that often requires extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and potentially surgery, leading to weeks or months of lost productivity and pain. This incident serves as a stark reminder that the consequences of ignoring this recall are not hypothetical. They are documented, real-world injuries that have already occurred to other consumers.
Beyond the specific risk of shoulder injury, continuing to use a drill with a compromised side handle increases the likelihood of other accidents. A slipping tool can cause you to lose your footing, drop the heavy device on your foot or another person nearby, or drill off-target, potentially damaging pipes, wires, or structural elements in your home. The "injury hazard" is not just about the tool breaking; it is about the chain reaction of events that follows when you can no longer reliably guide where the bit goes. By delaying the remedy, you are gambling with your physical safety and the safety of those around you for a problem that has a free, straightforward solution available right now.