3-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Drill

3-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Drill

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You’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your drill, but what type should you choose? Do you prefer a powerful drill that requires constant plugging, or do you want the versatility of a battery-operated tool? Are you planning to drill through concrete and stone, or will you primarily work with wood and drywall?

Regardless of your needs, it’s crucial to explore your options thoroughly to determine which drill is right for you.

Here’s a guide to assist you in selecting your ideal drill:

1. Consider How You’ll Use Your Drill

Before you make a decision, identify the tasks you will perform with the drill.

Questions to consider include:

• What surfaces will you need to drill into?
• Do you require specific positioning when drilling (such as at a right angle)?
• Will you need to carry it frequently, climbing ladders or moving across a job site?
• How long will you need to use the drill at any one time?

Answering these questions will help you clarify your requirements for a drill.

2. Pick the Best Type of Drill

The three most popular types of drills are:

• Drill Drivers: This is the most common type, used for creating holes and driving or loosening screws in metal, interior walls, or wood. However, they generally cannot handle stone, masonry, or concrete.
• Hammer Drills: Besides rotating, a hammer drill also moves in a hammer-like action. This additional force allows it to bore holes in tough materials like stone or concrete. It's not ideal for wood work, as it may damage the timber. Also, ear protection is essential when using hammer drills due to their loud operation.
• Impact Drivers: Designed primarily for driving screws, bolts, and nuts into metal and wood quickly. Unlike standard drills, they have hexagonal sockets and cannot interchange drill bits with hammer drills. They are also quite loud, requiring ear protection.

Another consideration is the type of handle that best suits your needs. Many modern drills feature T-handles for better weight distribution and balance, which also prevent hand slippage. For tougher jobs, consider a pistol grip handle for added control.

3. Decide Between Cordless and Corded Drills

Cordless

Cordless drills are appreciated for their portability and ease of use.

When selecting a cordless drill, remember to consider:

• Power: Look for voltage and torque ratings. Generally, higher voltage indicates a more powerful drill. Most cordless drills are 18V, but you can also find lower (7.2V) and higher (20V) options.
• Speed: Speed is measured in rotations per minute (rpm). Some drills have two fixed speeds (for instance, 300 rpm for holes and 800 rpm for screws). A variable speed drill can provide better control, particularly for specific tasks.
• Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are popular for their quick charging, longevity, and lighter weight compared to other types like Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd). Check both the charger speed and the Amp-hour (Ah) rating for longer battery life.

Corded

Corded drills are ideal for heavy-duty use. When considering one, be sure to evaluate:

• Power: Power in corded drills is measured in watts. Higher wattage equals more power.
• Special Direct System (SDS): SDS drills allow for increased hammering force, making them suitable for tougher tasks, including light demolition.

Regardless of the type you choose—be it a cordless drill driver or a corded hammer drill—what's most important is finding the drill that fits your needs for any project.

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Choosing a Cordless Drill

Whether you're learning basic maintenance or undertaking a second home addition, a reliable drill is essential.

Are Cordless Drills Worth It?

Cordless drills enable you to drill holes and drive screws without needing to find an outlet. The downside is choosing from the numerous models available, which can be overwhelming.

What Drill To Buy

Match the Tool to the Job

With so many models of drill/drivers available, it’s important to purchase one that matches your usage.

Assess three scenarios below to identify your needs. The best cordless drill for home use typically suffices for light maintenance and repair. You can upgrade or rent a more powerful drill as necessary.

Jobs

• LIGHT MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR: Installing brackets, drilling holes for drywall anchors, and assembling furniture.
• REPAIR AND REMODELING: Building shelves, replacing deck railings, and hanging drywall.
• HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Drilling into pressure-treated wood and masonry, and installing decking.

Features You’ll Need

A tool with one battery is sufficient for quick tasks. For drilling and driving screws, choose a drill with fixed speeds; variable speed is a bonus. Select at least a 9.6V for additional power.

For heavy-duty tasks, ensure your drill has enough voltage to handle larger jobs, while considering ergonomics for prolonged use.

What to Look For in a Cordless Drill

1. Chuck jaws: Maximum capacity on most drills is 3/8 inches; some can handle 1/2-inch bits.
2. Clutch: More settings provide better control over screw depth.
3. Speed-range switch: Look for a wide range for better performance.
4. Forward/reverse switch: Should be easy to operate.
5. Hand grip: Check texture and contour for comfort.
6. Voltage: Higher voltage means more power but added weight.
7. Battery: Having two batteries is ideal.
8. Trigger: Ensure comfort when gripping the drill.
9. Keyless chuck: Easy to open and close.

Process for Buying a Cordless Drill

1. Check drills in stores, noting their weight and balance.
2. Test vertical and horizontal positions for comfort.
3. Look for models with contoured grips for easy handling.
4. Evaluate ease of changing settings and opening the chuck.

Cordless Drill Features

Power

Power is measured by battery voltage. Higher voltage means more torque. Current cordless drills range from 6V to 18V. Higher voltages are suitable for drilled holes in framing and flooring, but power translates to higher weight.

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Handles

Handles are T-handle or pistol grip. T-handles are typically better for general tasks, providing balance, especially for heavier models.

Clutch

An adjustable clutch allows for torque control, preventing stripping screws.

Speed

Most drills have two speeds; more advanced models allow variable speeds from 0 to max speed.

Batteries and Chargers

Nickel-metal-hydride batteries are efficient and safer for disposal than standard Nickel-Cadmium. Charge times vary, so consider models with fast charge capabilities for greater convenience.

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