Power Drills

The power drill is one of the most popular power tools on the market today because it is an easy to use tool that helps for a large variety of projects. From professional woodworkers to a homeowner needing to do some work on their house, a power drill is a must have in the toolbox.

When purchasing a power drill it is important to know what the needs are for the tool to help you with projects. Once you understand your need for the tool, then you can begin to choose what type and variety of power drill you wish to purchase.

Impact Drivers

The Impact Drivers look similar to the common power drill with a more compact and lightweight structure. What is great about the impact driver is it can give you up to 3x the torque due to the internal power train system. Having an internal spring loaded hammer it can strike up to 300 blows per minute against the sides of the anvil which gives the driver the ability to deliver stronger fastening power.

Air Drills

An Air Drill is a power drill that uses compressed air to push the driver into the drill bits causing a rotating force. These tools are typically cheaper, smaller and lighter weight. Since they are powered through compressed air you must have an air compressor in order to use the tool.

Rotary Hammer Drills

A Rotary Hammer Drill uses a combination of rotation and force through a large external piston.

These tools have a lot of strength, power, and shock absorbance. They are ideal for projects like drilling stone, masonry, and concrete.

After considering what type of drill fits your needs best, you will next need to determine what kind of power source is desirable for your projects. 

Cordless Power Drills

Today's technology has made the cordless power drill very popular due to the fact that they are lightweight, safe, and long lasting. Even though the cordless drill still falls short of power compared to the corded drill, it is more convenient to maneuver and use, especially in areas without power sources.. If a cordless drill is the tool you choose to use, it is recommended in getting a second battery and investing in a cordless drill with quick change functions.

Tips for Longer Lasting Battery Life

• Use Lithium Batteries. Lithium batteries are smaller and lighter for easier handling and can run at the top power longer.

   

• Do not drain the battery completely. Discharging the battery completely will lead to the decline of the life of the battery faster. Try not to let the battery discharge to less than 20% before recharging it. Frequent recharging is better for the extent of the battery life.

   

• Charge at the proper temperature. The optimum temperature for recharging the battery is 40°F to 86°F. Charging at extreme temperatures disturbs the chemical reaction and can result in permanent loss of the battery’s ability to charge.

   

• Store the battery partially charged and where it is cool. By storing the battery in a cool area and with some power still in it you will extend the life of the battery and a faster recharge time.

Corded Power Drills

For heavier duty jobs, the corded drill is still the tool to be considered. They have more torque and won’t run out of power at any point during your project. Remember when purchasing a power drill, the higher the wattage, the more power the drill will deliver.

important to get the right size for your project needs.

There are 3 different sizes that are found in power drills. 

• ¼ “ chuck is for light duty tasks that uses a smaller diameter bit

• ⅜ “ chuck will do for the most average size project

• ½ “ chucks are for the larger, more powerful tools to handle larger jobs

Along with sizes you can also choose to buy with the option of keyed or keyless chucks. Keyed chucks require a key to change out the drill bits. Though it may take more time to change bits, they are less likely to slip. A keyless chuck tightens and loosens around your bit without a key which is better if you need to change bits more frequently. Note that a SDS chuck can change as quickly as a keyless chuck and offer the grip of a keyed chuck, but are more expensive of the three options. 

Most power drills on the market today come with a few additional features to help your needs; Such as lights and levels to give more accuracy, brushless motors for more efficiency, or side handles for better stability. The power drill is a vital tool to have in your collection and it is recommended to read tips on how best to take care of the drill, and buy the most suitable one for your needs.