How to Choose a Cordless Drill: A Guide for DIY Newbies

A cordless power drill is among the many must-have tools in every DIY enthusiast’s arsenal. However, with the hundreds of makes and models to choose from, it can be quite the challenge to find the perfect one. Thus, before going shopping for one, you must first educate yourself on how to choose a cordless drill.

Then again, you don’t have to worry; we have got you all covered. In here, we will be talking about the basics that every DIY newbie should know when on the hunt for a cordless power drill.

Corded vs. Cordless Power Drills: Knowing the Essentials

Generally, power drills are tools used to bore holes in various types of material on the one hand, and to fasten screws on the other. They accomplish this through the circular motion of the drill tip, which, depending on shape and size, are variously efficient in handling different types of solid material.

This motion is achieved using electricity, and it is under this aspect that the corded/cordless distinction becomes relevant. Simply put, corded drills continuously harness electricity from an external power source, to which they have to be constantly connected in order to work.

On the other hand, cordless drills use electrical energy accumulated in an internal battery and can work independently of an external source for as long as it has sufficient stored energy.

The immediate consequence of the difference between these two energy supply systems is that corded drills can generally harness a greater motor power and torque (while having to be permanently connected to an external source). In contrast, cordless drills are usually less powerful, but are more versatile, and can be easily carried and used in a wider range of situations.

How to Choose a Cordless Drill

So, now that you know how and where cordless and corded power drills differ from one another are you certain that you are going to go for a cordless one? If yes, then here are the factors to consider when buying a cordless power drill:

• In Broad Strokes

The first thing that one would have to take into consideration when purchasing a cordless power drill is its power. The motor’s strength is measured in watts, which will determine how much a punch a cordless drill can pack. Generally, they’re inferior to corded power drills, so be wary of buying something that’s rated at 1000W or 650W as that will, most likely, be false advertising.

Torque is another determinant of how much a power drill can do. Torque is basically the drill’s ability to withstand opposition. Therefore, as with wattage, more is better.

• Battery Life

The second most important factor that one should know in order to learn how to choose a power drill is battery life. Battery life is determined by voltage and amperes. Basically, a battery that has both values higher will translate into more battery life.

The voltage will determine how much power the drill can deliver, while amperes will determine how much juice can be packed in a single charge.

In addition to battery life, more sneaky manufacturers will bundle two batteries. Even if they’re weaker than a bigger, stronger battery, two will be generally better. Keep an eye out for deals and make sure to give battery life the importance it deserves for planning longer projects. The last thing to note is to look out for quick charging devices. These will juice up a battery in a matter of minutes.

• Clutch and Clutch Size

Clutches have different sizes and different gripping mechanisms. Keyless or with a key, make sure that the grip that they provide and the size they’re rated for are a good fit for the project. Bigger sizes will mean that it will accommodate bigger drills.

• RPMs

RPMs or rotations per minute will determine how good the machine is at drilling. Different types of jobs and materials will require the user to adjust the RPM. This means that more options will definitely mean more versatility in terms of project choice.

Overall, one would want at least two or three speeds, but, of course, the more settings there are, the better.

• Brushless vs. Brushed Motors

Brushless motors are the industry standard. They’re more efficient in energy consumption and product conservation than its counterpart. Also, they won’t put much strain on the power tool even if the user is “abusing” it.

On the other hand, brushed motors are less smart than brushless ones when it comes to energy efficiency. They tend to put a lot of strain on the machine, rendering it unable to adjust accordingly to the task.

• Accessories

This isn’t as important for veterans, but newbies will want to look for set deals. Usually, cordless power drills will come in packs, bundled with drill heads, drivers, sanding heads, and more. Extensors are also a great deal, giving the user a big upgrade when it comes to usability.

Moreover, flashlights and indicators are a must when using battery-powered tools, so make sure that the device has one. Otherwise, one might risk being left powerless in a frustrating moment.

• Manufacturer

Always buy from a reputable manufacturer. Buying from a shady source isn’t a smart investment, as these products usually tend to fail and underperform, leaving the user frustrated and looking for a better product.

Usually, Ryobi has great starting-level kits and tools, while Bosch and DeWalt offer a wider array of products, both for amateurs and professionals alike.

• Ergonomics

Ergonomics are important when it comes to a machine that’s going to be used on the regular. Having a soft-grip handle, a pistol grip, and nice finish touches all add up to a good-value purchase.

Find products that are specifically tailored for the working men or women. The manufacturers mentioned above, for example, have a vast experience on what it takes to make a very user-friendly, intuitive product.

• Warranty

Warranties are important for every purchase, but the nature of power drills and power tools, in general, make them a higher value purchase if they come with a long-term warranty. This will also allow the users to feel better about experimenting with different projects, both in terms of variety and difficulty.

Final Thoughts

The basic thing to keep in mind when learning how to choose a cordless drill is not to overbuy something. A Ryobi starter kit is the perfect tool for a newbie that’s just getting into drilling and DIY projects. That being said, an enthusiast will surely know when it’s time to move on to a DeWalt or Bosch mobile powerhouse.

Make sure to have a good hardware store nearby and ask for help with projects and recommendations in terms of accessories. Remember, power drills are incredibly versatile machines, and one will definitely benefit from learning all of the nuances and tricks that come with it, improving his or her DIY game by quite a bit.

Last, but not least, make sure to get a full-featured machine. Fine touches and ergonomics are arguably one of the most important things to have in order to make the hobby or task more pleasant.

What To Do With Old Cordless Drills

Got an old drill that is done serving its purpose? If you are wondering what to do with old cordless drills, allow us to help you out. In reality, there are many things that you can do and make out of this once-useful tool. Are you ready to find out how to give your old drill a new life? Read on!

What To Do With Old Cordless Drill: A List of DIY Projects

Are you looking for ideas for your next DIY projects? Well, we might just have the right solution for you. Below, we listed down our most favorite DIY projects to do with an old cordless drill.

• Make it into a Knot Tier

For this, all you will need is a one-inch nail or bigger, a pair of pliers, vise, and copper wire that you can test the knot tier on. Once you have everything you need, you can now start making the knot tier. Place the nail in the vise and then, using the pliers, bend it to 80 to 85 degrees.

Put this nail into the drill with its pointy part inside the drill. When you put this hook on the wire and start the drill, it will spin and tie the wire up. This project helps save time and effort as it would eliminate the need to twist the wire up manually.

• Clean your Bike

This is perhaps the simplest things you can try, not to mention the most useful. Just stick a brush on the moving end of the grill, and you can use it to clean your bike. In fact, you can also use it to clean other things, especially those that have a lot of crevices.

• Scrape a Coconut

If you have a small coconut scraper head, you can use it with the drill to scrape the meat off of a coconut. Usually, people do it with their hands or using machines, but with this cordless drill, you can get the same results. However, you should be careful and make sure that the head is attached firmly.

• Egg Beater

This is probably a bit unusual for a drill, but you can actually use it as an egg beater. If you connect the egg beater whisk to your drill, it will work the same way as your regular egg beater. In fact, you can try using other attachments as well, such as a wire whisk.

• Cold Beer Ice Roller

Want a beer chilled in just 30 seconds? Your old drill can make that happen. This is the most fun thing you will ever try with your drill. Here are what you would need: pliers, side cutters, coat hanger, and a suction cup.

Remove the plastic hook from the suction cup. Then, cut the coat hanger into two equal lengths. Thread the coat hanger through the suction cup and then twist it. You can use pliers for this if it is too hard. Keep it two inches and cut off the rest.

Finally, attach this setup to the drill and stick the suction cup at the bottom of the beer can. Spin the beer can in ice cubes for about 30 seconds and then enjoy a cold one!

• Kite String Winder

If you like flying a kite, your old cordless drill can be very useful to you. Winding the string back on the winder can be quite a hassle. With a drill, you can attach the winder, and as you trigger it, the winding will happen on its own.

For this, you will need a handful of stuff like a nail or wire, small drill bit, Kleenex, plastic epoxy, a driver bit from the old cordless drill, and a paper plate. You will also need something to cut the plastic spool.

First of all, you need to cut the plastic spool end. You can use whatever method you like. It is hollow from the inside, which is what you want, and throw away the small pieces that you cut.

Measure using the bit as to where to drill the hole. A 3/32-inch hole is fine in most cases. You can insert a small nail. When you do this, insert half of a Kleenex so that it stops any epoxy from spilling in when you, later on, put it.

Mix the epoxy on the plastic plate. Put the spool vertically in a vise so that it stands firmly when you take this next step. Fold the paper plate and pour the epoxy mix into the cavity with the nail and Kleenex. Wait for the epoxy to set up.

Now, insert the driver bit in a vertical fashion. Keep it in a vertical position for about half an hour. Make sure the driver bit is vertical otherwise the spool will not rotate correctly and wobble.

Your spool is ready to be inserted in the drill. Trigger it and test how it winds. It is best to start slowly and then increase speed. However, it is recommended to use slower speeds only as you do not want the string to break.

Other Projects

The internet is full of creative individuals like you who do not want their precious cordless drill to end up in a landfill. Aside from the projects we presented above, you can also come up with an exciting hack that no one has ever figured out before.

Here are some more ideas to get you inspired:

• Emergency light
• Battery charger
• Lawnmower throwers
• Pepper grinder
• Bike battery generator
• Skateboard engine
• Kick bike generator
• Cocktail mixer
• Sanding tool for cut glass
• LED Spotlight

Conclusion

Anything that needs a small motor for rotation can be linked with your small drill. Drills can last for years, but if you use them frequently, you may need to get a new one within three years. Even though they are not very expensive, doing something useful with the old one can really get you your money’s worth.

Safety is very important when working with drills. Make sure the drill and any pointy object are away from your face and skin. Also, ensure that the batteries are out when you are fixing things into the grill. Follow proper instructions for whatever DIY project you undertake and wear gloves to be extra safe, especially when using cutters, glue, epoxy, and electric equipment.

Now, you know what to do with old cordless drills and make it even more useful, we are sure you will keep the old cordless drill with you for years to come.

Corded vs Cordless Drill Debate

Corded vs. Cordless Drill

If you have recently been looking to buy a drill, you might be at a bit of a crossroads with this whole corded vs. cordless drill debate. Yes, both are drills and they are both meant for the same jobs, but they do differ in their power source. Of course, a corded drill is one that uses a power cable that is plugged into an AC outlet to draw its power.

On the other hand, a cordless drill uses a mobile battery pack for power. Now, you might think that one of these is radically better than the other, but the truth is that they both have their advantages and drawbacks to speak of. We personally like both of these tools, but it depends on the specific location, situation, and type of work involved.

The corded vs cordless drill debate is one that we are here to talk about right now. Keep in mind that we probably are not going to end this by saying that neither one is better than the other, because better is subjective here. It really depends on what your needs and preferences are. So, let’s get to it and talk about the main differences between a battery powered drill and a corded drill.

Size

One of the first differences to keep in mind between the corded and cordless drill has to do with size. Generally speaking, a corded drill will be significantly smaller than a cordless one. This can come in quite handy if you are working in a tight area where space needs to be considered. Sometimes a smaller tool is better.

The reason why cordless drills tend to be bigger and bulkier than the corded counterpart is because of the battery. It takes a bigger battery and quite a bit of hardware to accommodate that battery, making the cordless variety a bit bigger and bulkier. This might not make a big difference to you, but for some people it does.

Weight

Another difference between the corded and cordless drill has to do with the weight. The battery in the cordless drill weighs quite a bit and tends to make the cordless drill a little bottom heavy and annoying to hold. The added weight of the battery does make a pretty big difference. The cord does weight a bit on a corded drill, but not very much.

Maneuverability

Based on the weight and size difference between these two types, the corded drill tends to be a bit more maneuverable than the cordless ones. Yes, the cord on a corded drill does limit the distance you can move from the power outlet, but that is different. Here we are talking about maneuverability in terms of being able to fit into tight spaces and being able to us the drill with one hand. The smaller size and lower weight of the corded drill makes it more maneuverable in this sense. However, you might run into problems with cord length and where the cord sits while you drill.

Mobility

Related to the previous point, cordless drills tend to be much more mobile than the corded variety. Simply put, you don’t always have to be beside a power outlet and have an extension cord to use a cordless drill. You have a battery that powers the drill so there is no concern about a power outlet. On the other hand, the battery-powered drill variety does have issues with battery life, but in terms of being able to use it without a power cord, it is much more mobile. Many models come with 2 batteries: one to use, and one to be charging to use when the first battery runs down.

Power and Consistency

One of the biggest differences between these two types of drills has to do with their power and the level of power consistency. The reason for this is because the cordless drill uses a battery runs out of energy and needs recharging. First off, batteries are not going to supply as much power to the drill as a direct power source will. Therefore, a corded drill has a lot more power to begin with. At the same time, as the battery in a cordless drill starts to die, the power goes away as well. Therefore, in terms of power and power consistency, a corded drill is much better and more reliable.

Cost

In terms of the cost, a corded drill is going to be a bit cheaper than a cordless drill. The battery for a cordless drill costs quite a bit, and may even have to be bought separately. At the same time, the hardware in the drill required to support the battery is going to cost something as well. Furthermore, the battery requires a charger which also costs more. All of this said, the corded drill is going to cost less due to not needing any of these things. However, to be honest, when it comes to quality, we never pay attention to cost, because at the end of the day, we want the job do be done well.

Lifespan

Another big difference between the corded and cordless drill has to do with the lifespan. The increased amount of power and consistency of a corded drill, combined with less internal hardware (battery accommodation), plus not having a battery that wears down over time, means that corded drills tend to last a lot longer than cordless ones. Batteries die over time and need to be replaced, and also the connecters for the batteries can degrade. Therefore, a corded drill is going to last longer than a cordless one.

Battery Uses

The other difference to keep in mind is that the batteries for cordless drills can often be used for other cordless tools. This is definitely true if you have several battery-powered power tools from the same brand. Being able to use batteries interchangeably is a bonus.

Corded vs Cordless Drill Conclusion

At the end of the day, we cannot really say that one of these is better than the other. Both the corded and cordless drills have benefits and drawbacks that you need to keep in mind before you make a final purchase.  You can check out reviews on some of the best top rated cordless power drills

How to Convert a Cordless Drill into a Corded One

How to Convert a Cordless Drill into a Corded One

If you have a cordless drill, you are probably well aware of how great these tools are. There is no denying the fact that not needing to always be plugged into a power source is really convenient. Cordless drills are quite convenient and mobile, plus they have a wide variety of jobs that you can use them for. That being said, cordless drills do have certain drawbacks.

One of the biggest drawbacks is that the batteries run out and need to be charged almost every day. However, even worse than that is the fact that the batteries will permanently die after a while. This means that you need to buy a new battery altogether. If you have to keep buying new batteries, it can start getting pretty expensive. Some people actually buy a new drill altogether when the battery on the old one dies.

However, this is not necessarily something that you have to do; you don’t always have to buy new batteries and you certainly do not have to throw the drill out. There is actually a way to convert a cordless drill into a corded drill if needed. It is not that easy, it takes a lot of skill and knowledge, and you need to have the right tools, but it is definitely doable. How to convert a cordless drill into a corded one is the topic of the day.

The Skills You Will Need

First and foremost, this is not a Lego operation; it is not easy, and it is not something that you can just do on a whim. There are actually quite a few skills that you need in order to convert a cordless drill into a corded drill. Let’s talk about the knowledge, skills and tools you need to have in order to get this job done.

Soldering

The number one most important skill you need in order to convert a cordless drill into a corded one is soldering. In other words, you need to be able to use a soldering iron and the necessary tools in order to solder wires together. You will need to solder the wires from a cord to the battery connecters on the cordless drill. If you get this wrong or just don’t do it right, the drill will not work.

Basic Electronics

You will need to know about basic electronics. You are going to be searching for wires, connectors, and you will need to connect the right wires and parts to each other in order to get this to work.

To be quite honest, if you do not feel comfortable with soldering or with wiring, you probably do not want to attempt this. You don’t want to end up causing a fire or frying yourself. Keep in mind that electrical work is dangerous, so always be careful, and if you are not confident in your knowledge and skills, you might want to look into buying a new battery or buying a new drill altogether.

Parts Needed

Before you get started with the conversion, you need to have the right tools and materials on hand. To do this properly, you need the following materials.

• The drill you are to convert
• Wall wart
• Screwdriver
• Sandpaper
• Soldering equipment (butane torch, soldering iron, flux)
• Wire cutter
• Wire stripper

Step-By-Step Conversion

Now that we have discussed the skills, knowledge and equipment you need to do this, you need to know what the proper steps are. Let’s go through a step by step process so you can convert your cordless drill into a corded one. By the way, there are other ways to do this, but we are going to keep it simple. This method of converting your cordless drill into a corded one is the easiest and cheapest way to get the job done. Always remember to turn off all power supplies, or have them unplugged, before you get started.

1. The first thing you need to do is to open the drill. You need to open up the housing so that you can get to the wiring and the battery clips. Beware – this will void your warranty so there is no turning back after you open your drill up. This is where your knowledge of wiring comes in handy because you will need to know which leads are which, both inside of the drill and the power supply.
2. Take your power supply, or in other words, the power cord that you will be using to supply the power to the drill. Cut the end off of the power cord, the end that is going to be connected to the drill. If you have the parts, you can put a jack in the drill, but this is not necessary.
3. Now, you need to strip and tin the ends of the wires on the new power supply so they are ready to solder. At the same time, you will need to sand, tin, and flux the battery connector. Now, that being said, you do not have to connect the wires to the battery connect; you can remove the battery connect and solder the wires right to each other.
4. Now it is time to solder the wires from the new power supply to the battery clips on the inside. If you have removed the battery clips, you can solder the wires from the drill directly to the wires in the new power supply.
5. If your knowledge of all things electrical is limited, chances are that you might solder the wrong wires together. So, if the drill does not work, you might have to take the wires apart and solder them back together the opposite way.

Conclusion

As you can see, it is possible to convert a cordless drill into a corded one. However, you need the right skills and knowledge to do this. Be careful and take your time because while this is not brain surgery, it’s also not child’s play.

What Cordless Drill has the Most Torque?

What cordless drill has the most torque? If you are looking for a powerful cordless drill, then this must be one of the first questions you will ask. Torque is often used as a gauge for how well a cordless drill will perform and whether it’s for low-level DIY projects or serious heavy-duty jobs. In this article, we’ll debunk misconceptions about torque and introduce you to some of the most powerful cordless drills in the market.

What Is Torque and Why Is It Important?

When you’re looking for a drill, one of the important specs is torque. Torque refers to the turning or twisting force—or in this case, the force applied to turn a bit or a screw.

Among power drills, torque is expressed in inch pounds. In the cordless drill department, we have seen brands that have breached the threshold of 1,000, making the common notion that cordless drills are not made for heavy-duty tasks a thing of the past. So, does it follow that the more torque there is, the better? That a high-torque rating readily translates to efficiency or power?

While looking at the torque value when shopping around for powerful cordless drills is a neat shortcut, we hate to break it to you that it doesn’t always work that way. There are cordless drills with lower torque that can outperform the ones with higher torque rating. Thus, torque is in no way a measurement of the speed with which a task can be completed or the amount of work that gets done in a given period.

But torque will at least tell you how much punching power your ‘fist’ has so to speak. As you can imagine, you need not just strength to punch a hole through; you also need speed. That’s why, in some instances, a cordless drill with lower torque can finish faster than the one with higher torque rating.

• The traditional method of measuring torque rating involved:

1. Mounting a drill onto a rig and checking how much it’s able to turn
2. Locking the chuck onto a fixed spindle
3. Putting the drill on full power, and
4. Measuring the drill at 0 rpm.

• A different method of measuring power rating involves the first three of the traditional method plus:

1. Increasingly applying torque and
2. Measuring drill speed and torque with multiple data points. This results in a power rating expressed in units watts out (UWO). The higher the UWO is, the more efficient it is in getting things done.

UWO, however, is a metric not used by all brands. Still, if you’re looking for a powerful cordless drill, then you would want to check out the torque as well as the speed or the RPM (revolutions per minute) of your tool.

What Cordless Drill has the Most Torque?

Since not all brands use UWO metrics, we give you some of the cordless drills in the market in either torque and speed values or UWO figures. Our picks represent different known brands for cordless drills.

Makita XPH07Z 18V 1/2-inch Cordless Hammer Drill

This 18V 1/2-inch hammer drill by Makita boasts of 1,090 inch-pounds of maximum torque and an upper limit of 2,100 rpm. And measuring 6 inches x 15 inches x 11 inches at 5.75 pounds, it is truly designed for heavy-duty use. It is expected to survive harsh job site conditions, taking on demanding wood, masonry, and metal projects. Besides the obvious toughness, this Makita power tool shows thoughtfulness.

It features an ergonomic design that makes wielding its rather bulky and heavy construct more comfortable. It also comes with a side handle when you need an extra hand during operation. All the while, a three-stage LED gauge updates you on the power status of your battery. Moreover, its lithium-ion batteries are also a workhorse that charges fast and lasts long.

The Makita XPH07Z 18V 1/2-inch Hammer Drill is also versatile. Its two-speed operation of 0-550 RPM and 0-2,100 RPM allows it to work not only with tough projects but also delicate tasks.

Milwaukee 2703-20 18V 1/2-inch Hammer Drill

This power drill by Milwaukee is equipped with a whopping 1,200 inch-pounds of peak torque and up to 2,000 RPM of drilling speed. Featuring a two-speed operation of 0-500 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM, it lets you handle not only rough projects but also delicate ones. And with its two-operating mode, it allows you to handle fastening tasks, too.

All that power and capability is packed in its 8 inches by 4 inches by 10 inches body that tips the scale at 4 pounds, making it perfect for tight spots. It also comes with a removable side handle which you’ll find useful to handle all that power, as well as a bit holder and a metal belt hook to facilitate quick and easy operation.

The Milwaukee 2703-20 18V 1/2-inch Hammer Drill is powered by two Red lithium XC5.0 batteries that are heat-, water-, moisture- and freezing-resistant.

DeWalt DCD991P2 20V Brushless 3-Speed Drill

This 20V 1/2-inch hammer drill by DeWalt in its iconic yellow and black color comes with an incredible 820 UWO. Coming in at 4 inches by 11 inches by 17 inches at 11 pounds, it has an imposing presence to match its immense power. And with its nitro-carburized metal chuck, carbide inserts, and coated and sealed switches, this beast is more than ready to tackle tough applications.

This powerful and robust tool is also versatile. Designed with a three-speed operation that ranges from 0-2,000 RPM, it handles rough and delicate projects like a pro.

The DeWalt DCD991P2 20V Brushless 3-Speed Drill is also equipped with a three-mode LED light that lets you work with ease in dark or enclosed areas. Besides a light source, this brushless tool also comes with a helpful 360° side handle, a belt hook, batteries, a charger, and a kit box. It is powered by two DCB205 high-capacity 5.0 Ah Li-Ion batteries that afford it to run with 33% more capacity than standard packs.

Summary

These are but three of the power drills to answer your query on what cordless drill has the most torque. They feature a good combination of high torque and great speed. Expect that in the coming years, powerful cordless drills such as these will become more commonplace. You can look forward as well to more powerful ones.

Hammer Drill vs Impact Driver

Do you need to get some work done around the home? Maybe you need to drill some holes in a brick or concrete wall.  Or maybe you need to hang some pictures or mount something heavy in a hard surface. Or, you need to drill some holes through a hard surface for plumbing or wiring. The point that we are making here is that you need the right tools for the job.  So lets do a hammer drill vs impact driver to compare and see what each power tool is best suited for.

Hammer Drill vs Impact Driver

You can’t use a normal drill to work with brick, concrete, and other such materials. A normal drill would fall to bits, burn out, catch on fire, and just would not be a very good choice to go with. Maybe you already know all of this and you just want to read up on it more. Or maybe you are an aspiring handyman and need to know everything you can about your field of work and the tools you will need to use.

We are here today to talk about two specific tools, those being the impact driver and the hammer drill. These might sound like some kind of fighting moves used in professional wrestling, and while they might very well be just that, they are both useful tools as well. Now, with that being said, both of these tools have very different features and purposes. Today we want to talk about the difference between a hammer drill and an impact driver so you know exactly what each of these tools are for and what their intended purposes are.

The Hammer Drill

The first tool that we want to talk about is the hammer drill. The hammer drill, just as it sounds, is more or less a combination between a hammer and a drill. Drills can be used for drilling holes and screwing screws into softer materials, usually wood. Also, hammers are used to hammer nails through softer materials like wood. However, both the hammer and the regular drill could not deal with harder materials like masonry, brick, concrete, and other really hard materials.

This is where the hammer drill comes into play. It is a tool that is primarily designed for drilling holes in hard surfaces like drywall, sheetrock, brick, concrete, and other forms of masonry. In terms of the motion of it, the hammer drill combines the spinning motion of a drill with the hammering motion of a hammer. This is shown to be the best way to drill holes through masonry. The combination of rotational and impact force really gets the job done.

The Impact Driver

The impact driver is quite different from the hammer drill. Whereas the main purpose of the hammer drill is to drill holes through hard materials, the impact driver’s main purpose is to drive big, thick, and long screws into really tough materials. These materials could be hard wood, studs, brick, concrete, and other forms of masonry. A normal drill simply does not have the power, the engine strength, the rotational capacity, or the durability of an impact driver.

The impact driver is pretty much a drill on steroids, one meant to deal with really hard materials. So, just to recap, the impact driver is all about driving long screws through tough materials, whereas the hammer drill is meant for drilling holes.

The tools are somewhat similar, but they are also quite different, as you can see. Unlike the hammer drill, the impact driver does not use any impact force, which is kind of counterintuitive due to the name of the tool. However, the impact driver only uses rotational force and does not use a hammering impact like the hammer drill. It might sound a bit confusing, but a hammer drill uses both rotational and impact force, whereas an impact driver only uses rotational force to get the job done.

Hammer Drill vs Impact Driver – Other Key Differences

Now that we have covered what the main intended purpose for each of these tools is, plus how they function, let’s talk about some of the other main differences between them right now.

One big difference between both of these tools is that the impact driver and hammer drill use different bits, or at least one of these tools is much more versatile in the type of bits it can accept. Impact drivers are very one faceted and have a locking head that only accepts hexagonal shank bits, but these do just fine for their intended purpose. On the other hand, the hammer drill can also accept round bits, as well as the hex bits, which is thanks to its 3-jaw chuck.

What you might not know is that hammer drills have a button to turn the hammering motion on and off. Therefore, the impact driver is like a hammer drill without the hammering motion, but the hammer drill does come with the option to have the hammering turned on and off. What you should also know is that impact drivers tend to produce a lot less vibration and noise than a hammer drill. The hammering motion from the hammer drill is very loud and the vibration it creates means that you really have to have a good grip on the hammer drill.

The two tools also differ in their shape. The impact driver is usually quite short and stubby, unlike the hammer drill which tends to be a little bigger and more elongated. At the same time, hammer drills have big internal clutches, whereas impact drivers don’t have these, making them a little easier to operate, especially for beginners.

Conclusion

As you can see, both the hammer drill and impact driver have their own specific purposes, both of which are quite different. It is understandable that people confuse these two tools, but they are really not the same at all. Hammer drills are great for drilling holes through hard surfaces whereas impact drivers are meant for getting big screws through those same hard surfaces.  You can find more reviews and advice right here at Home and Work Power Tools

Drill Versus Driver – What is the Difference

Drill Versus Driver – What is the Difference?

Today we are here to talk about drill and a driver. Both of these tools are things that any handyman should have in their arsenal. While they may sound like similar tools, and in some regard, they are similar, they are quite different. This is very true when it comes to their purpose and function.

If you are an aspiring handyman, handywoman, carpenter, repairman, builder, or any other kind of professional where you are drilling and screwing, you will want to know the difference between a drill and a driver. While they both do the same thing in the long run, the real difference is the power they have and what materials they are designed to work with.

This information is important to know even if you just want to fix some things around your own home. Using a driver for something that a drill could do is more or less a waste of energy, whereas using a drill for something a driver should be used for is going to end in disaster, probably the death of your drill. At any rate, let’s get right to it. What the difference is between a drill and a driver is what we are here to clear up right now.

A Difference In Purpose

One of the biggest differences between these two tools that you need to be aware of is what they are used for. A normal drill is used for drilling holes into wood and other softer materials. The drill can also be used for screwing screws into wood, or even into pre-drilled holes. In other words, the drill is meant mainly for smaller purposes and softer materials. Drills just don’t have the power or force to handle thicker, harder, and denser materials.

On the other hand, a driver is used for drilling holes and screwing big screws into very hard materials. The driver uses a slightly different motion and has quite a bit more power, and is therefore easily able to make its way through concrete, brick, and other kinds of masonry. In other words, a driver is pretty much just a beefed-up drill with added power, one that is intended to handle the hard materials that a normal drill just cannot deal with.

Keep in mind that you should not use a drill like a driver, and you should not use a driver like a drill. Using a driver on soft wood will most likely pulverize and ruin the wood, something you obviously don’t want. On the other hand, using a normal drill to try and get through something like concrete is likely to result in a broken drill bit, a burnt out motor, and big headache for you.

A Difference in Motion

Something else that is important to cover here is that both of these tools have a different motion, which is, in part, why they excel at different tasks. To start, a drill uses pure rotational force to get the job done. The pressure that is applied to the wood you are drilling all comes from you. Therefore, you can dictate exactly how much pressure you are applying to the wood. The most important thing to keep in mind here is that drills just turn, but they do not apply pressure, which is what makes them ideal for softer materials.

On the other hand, a driver, while also using rotation force, also uses impact pressure to get the job done. It moves back and forth, as well as front and back, really fast, thus creating lots of small impacts that chip away at masonry. This front-and-back motion combined with the rotational force is what allows drivers to work their way through hard materials like sheetrock, brick, concrete, and other such materials.

Drill vs. Driver – Other Key Differences

• Drills can accept various shapes of bits in the chuck, which makes them versatile and ideal for many jobs. Drivers on the other hand can only accept hex bits
• Drills tend to be a little bigger than drivers, making them harder to fit into tight spaces
• Drivers are usually quite a bit more expensive than drills due to the increased power and hardware needed for them
• Drivers don’t need you to apply pressure unlike drills do, thus decreasing user fatigue. However, on the other side of the coin, the driver’s motion can start to hurt the hands after a while
• Drills are best used for more precise works, whereas drivers are better for bigger jobs where 100% accuracy is not a big concern

Drill vs. Driver – Pros and Cons

Just like with any other tools out there, both the drill and the driver have things they excel at and things they are not so good for. So, let’s quickly talk about the pros and cons of the both the driver and the drill.

Drill – Pros

• Great for precision work
• Good for softer materials
• Always applies constant torque
• Works with a variety of screw heads and drill bits
• Can be used with accessories like sanders, and brushes
• Usually has a clutch for torque adjustment
• Not too expensive to buy
• Energy efficient

Cons

• Cannot handle really hard materials
• Can stall when putting in large fasteners
• Might strip screws
• Bits may come loose in the chuck
• Requires the user to apply a good amount of pressure
• Not all that much power

Driver – Pros

• Combination of rotation and concussive blows
• Can handle really thick and hard materials
• Applies lots of pressure – less user fatigue
• Tons of power
• Can drive big and long screws with minimal effort
• Not likely to stall or strip screws
• Has a smaller body – more maneuverable

Cons

• Fairly expensive to purchase
• Makes a ton of noise
• Can hurt the hands due to vibration
• Can only accept hex shaped bits
• Not ideal for delicate and precise work

Conclusion

As you can see, while both of these tools may look the same, they do work in different ways. All in all, they may be quite similar, but a driver is just way more powerful and adept at working with hard materials.  For further details and reviews on some of the best power drills click here.

Do You Need a Hammer Drill For Concrete: A Guide For Beginners

Drilling is no easy task, and it is not a job for everyone. But just how difficult is it exactly to drill on hard surfaces? Do you need a hammer drill for concrete? What are the best ways to drill on hard surfaces? These are some of the questions many people ask when they are not experienced in doing this job. If you are wondering about the complexity of placing holes on various surfaces, then this article is perfect for you.

The Basics of Drilling: Knowing What You Are Up Against

Just how difficult is it to place a hole in various things like wood, cement, and concrete? For those who still have to do their first drilling job, it would be a good idea to know how each surface or material differ from each other, so you would know what it is you will be working on.

For starters, some materials are harder to work on than others. For example, mortar, brick, and concrete are tougher materials when compared to standard brick or cement.
Brick is often made from clay which is pressed into a block. This material is hardened by heating it up in a kiln. Sometimes other elements are added to the brick such as hydrated silicates, sand, and iron, which makes them tougher. These days bricks are often used for decorative purposes as they break easily.

On the other hand, cement is made up of mineral powder that has a fine texture. Adding water will create a pasty-looking element, which can be used to glue something together. It has various uses and is easy to drill.
A mortar has cement as its main ingredient. Lime or masonry cement can also be added to it and is often used as a binding substance.

Concrete is a blend of different materials such as gravel, crushed stones, and sand. These ingredients are glued together using cement. As wine tastes better with age, cement becomes stronger as it gets older. The concrete is hard to drill through given the many ingredients used to make it.

Do You need a Hammer Drill for Concrete: The Perfect Drill

Given the toughness of concrete, it would be ideal to have a drill that can do the job as easily as possible. The drill that is perfect for concrete should have a variety of features such as variable speed, a hammer function, depth setting, and a good grip for additional strength.

With the need for all these features, do you need a hammer drill for concrete? The answer is yes if you want to lessen the time necessary for the job and to make the task much easier.

This is the reason why handymen and construction workers invest their time and money in buying one. The benefits of a hammer drill would outweigh the costs of getting one. However, if the costs are too high for you or if you only need to use it several times, then you may want to consider just borrowing from someone.

The Alternative

In cases where one needs to drill through concrete but is unable to buy or borrow one, do not fret. Using a hammer drill is not the only way to finish the task. There is an alternative to using this high-power equipment. However, it will eat up some time and is indeed tedious.

Contrary to popular belief, a hammer drill is not the only kind of drill that can get through hard concrete. A high-quality masonry bit drill will also do the job. There is a big difference between these two drills as the normal one does not have the hammer action, and thus users will need to turn the speed up during the drilling process.
There are some tips for using this trick. For starters, one has to have some water on hand, which has to be regularly used to prevent the bit from the excessive rising of temperature.

Using water will also help lengthen the life of the bit.
One also has to be mindful of damaging the chuck of the drill by avoiding grinding the drill up and down. Plus, there is a need to remove the dust and take away the drill’s flute constantly.

So, what kind of drill bit should be used when drilling through concrete? The masonry bits are the only one that can do the task as the primary component of this bit is made from steel.



How To Drill Better Holes

Many people end up with messy holes. The secret to having clean-looking ones is to use the small bit first until you reach your required diameter or measurement. The time spent in drilling holes using this tip vary depending on the material you are drilling through. For example, it would take longer to drill a clean hole in wood but would be faster if one is drilling against a metal.

Setting the speed can be quite tricky, too, since the speed to be used depends on the material being drilled. For example, slower speed must be used for drilling into metal while higher ones for concrete. Sometimes, one must use some oil to lubricate the material.

Drilling Is a Skill

Those who are experienced in drilling make the task seem so simple and easy to do. Unfortunately, the job is a tough one. Many people believe that drilling holes are all about placing a drill bit on the chuck and pressing the trigger. However, drilling is a skill that takes practice. If one does it hastily and sloppily, then a blow-out might happen. Some even end up breaking their wrists and burning up the drill bits. Thus, one must put some eye protection gear for safety purposes.

Moreover, one of the fundamental things to remember is to allow the drill to its job. This means not putting too much force on the drill or pushing it too hard against the surface. Failure to follow this tip may result in breaking the drill bit you are using.

How to Use a Power Drill: The Ultimate Guide

How to Use a Power Drill: The Ultimate Guide

Did you recently invest in a power drill and you want to learn the ins and outs of how to use it? Follow this handy guide so you will become a power drilling expert.

Spring is here, and that can only mean two things.

The wife has everyone on spring cleaning detail around the house, and she’s got you doing projects. Ugh!

All the tools in the garage are buried because you haven’t touched them since the fall. Forget it! Just go out and buy some new ones.

If you’ve recently bought a new power drill, just a heads up – they are better than ever! If you want to learn the ins and outs of the drill, read on to become an expert!

What Is a Power Drill?

Don’t be embarrassed if you’re not sure. This might be your first time purchasing one.

Think of it as a screwdriver on steroids. You can attach different “bits” to it, to match whatever screw you’re working on.  For example, maybe hanging a heavy picture on a wall or putting up shelves in the kids’ room.

You can also use “drill bits” which allows you to drill holes in things.

What will they think of next?

How to Use It

Now that you’ve purchased the drill, it’s time to figure out how the heck it works. The main thing to remember is that you can swap out the bits (head ends). Most of the modern power drills tighten by leverage.

How Does That work?

• Loosen (just like in school, righty-tighty, lefty-loosey)
• Put your bit into the chuck (that little three-pronged holder)
• Tighten

The power drill also has two other important components.

1. There’s a button near the trigger that tells the drill whether it should go forward or backward.
2. In most drills, there’s a torque setting.

Explain the Drill Bits

The most common is the general-purpose ones that come with a simple head. This can be used for most of the projects around the house.

Other bits include spade and flat (if you plan to do some construction around the house), masonry (for concrete), and bits with diamond carbide tip (for drilling into porcelain).

Don’t worry, just take baby steps and use the simple head for those DIY projects. Use safety glasses or any other protective gear because power tools aren’t toys.

The Cordless Drill

If you don’t want to drag around a pesky cord, consider going cordless. This drill typically comes with a battery and a charger, and some kits can even include batteries.

A cordless drill also has the forward, and reverse settings and most have a variable speed trigger. Be aware that the more pressure you put on the trigger, the faster the bit spins.

Same rules apply to a corded drill – wear safety goggles or any protective gear. Power nailers accounted for about 37,000 emergency room visits in recent years – don’t add on to it!

Become a Pro

Who knew that picking out a new power drill was going to be so complicated? Home and Work Power Tools makes finding the right drill easy with informative reviews and lists of top options. If you need more guidance, we’re here to help!

Check out our blog for the latest news on drills or send us a message!

What is a Power Drill Used For: The Newbie’s Guide

Every man and woman out there will agree that a healthy household requires proper maintenance and care. This means either hiring contractors for rudimentary maintenance and upgrades or taking matters into their hands. Owning a power drill and a toolkit built around it might eliminate this problem. Hence, what is a power drill used for and how to pick the right one will be the topic of this piece.

What is a Power Drill and How to Pick the Right One

Generally speaking, a power drill is an incredibly versatile power tool. It can either be corded or cordless. The basic concept is a rotating motor and different heads which are held in place by a chuck. This concept varies from product to product, with different attachments being better or worse for certain tasks.

For instance, there are attachments which allow the user to drill or drive at an angle, to get better torque, or to be more reliable. Most drill manufacturers have compatible attachments on availability, so the user will only have to do a bit of project-related research to get the best tools for the job.

Factors to Consider

• Power
  A drill’s power can be low, average and high. This factor indicates the sort of job the power tool will be suitable for. Low-power tools are great for driving screws, so the user can use a 3.6 or 4v model (low power) or a 14.4 to 18v model without requiring any extra juice. Determining which type of power is suitable for a job will allow the user to determine a project’s minimal costs much easier.
  If one is a DIY enthusiast and likes to take on tougher projects, then a corded drill is really the only way to go. A 220 to 230V model will be a lot tougher and more powerful; things which will protect the investment with a more reliable product.
• Torque
  As with power, torque falls into the same three categories. Torque determines the number of rotations per minute that the motor can deliver. Traditional drills offer around 400 to 1100 RPM torque. The bigger the battery or voltage, the more likely the model will have more torque.
  On the same topic, drills can come with breaking mechanisms, brushless motors, and more features that will definitely improve the functionality and efficiency of the motor. Investing a bit more money into a higher end model, even if it’s not that powerful, will ensure that the toolbox won’t need any upgrades for a while.
• Ergonomics
  It’s nice to have a user friendly-drill, so keep an eye out for lightweight models that have user-friendly features. A rubberized pistol grip, for instance, will make using the drill less demanding on the user’s part. Magnetized trays and flashlights will also make life easier for the builder, so it’s important to pick an ergonomically designed model when shopping.
• Stick to Brand Drills
  With that being said, stick to reputable manufacturers. There are tried-and-tested brands out there for all price points, so there’s no use in buying shady drills from untrustworthy sources. Ryobi, Bosch, DeWALT, Makita, RIDGID and more; all with extraordinary reputations and accessible prices depending on the user’s budget.

What is a Power Drill Used For

Generally, a power drill is used for drilling holes and driving screws, but think of it this way: this is a tool with swappable attachments in a world filled with mad geniuses and creative individuals. There are a few numbers of uses for power drills out there, the only limit is how much time can one put into research. So, owning one makes a lot of sense for all homeowners out there.

• DIY
  A lot of DIY projects can be finished faster if the user has access to a power drill. The drill can be used in plumbing, woodwork, upgrading the household and more. Make sure to pick the right drill for the job. Bits are made out of different materials. For example, a concrete bit being a lot more durable than the one used for plywood.
• Brush Attachments
  Bathtubs, cars, anything that requires a vigorous brushing can be worked on using a power drill. Picking an attachment with a brush can save hours of scrubbing. However, before cleaning a tub with a metal wire brush, make sure to pick the right tools for the job. Brushes come in a lot of variants, so don’t pick a hard one for an easy job.
• Sanding and Buffing
  Sanding is the worst! Using sandpaper will dry every inch of one’s body in a matter of minutes. A power drill with a sanding tip will allow the user to smoothen wooden objects, and areas effortlessly quickly, so it’s an invaluable tool for the workshop artist. The same goes for buffing surfaces.
• Mixing Paint
  Have a big project lined up? Make sure to make the most out of the power drill. It can be used for mixing paint faster and finer than any of us humans. Paint mixing bits are easy to come by and inexpensive. They’ll be a time saver and the paint won’t be patchy or too thin.

Summing Up

Whether it’s a cordless drill or a 230V powerhouse, power drills are incredibly efficient, versatile and time-saving power tools. Coming in at different price points and in different sizes, it’s easy to get tangled up in the complex hardware and power tool market.

Keep this in mind:

• For home maintenance and light DIY projects, a lower motor and torque power drill will suffice.
• There’s a lot of things that one can do to save money. Drill bit sharpeners and other tools are available on the market and will help the user save a lot of money in the long run.
• Having the right accessories is just as important as picking the right drill; keep an eye out for deals online and at the local hardware shop and build a toolbox brick by brick

Getting the right attachments for the right project will certainly make tasks a lot easier to finish. There is a lot to explore about what is a power drill used for and that is something that the industry has learned and adapted to as well as will continue to know.