
Each screw was a ¼ inch in diameter and 2 inches long. 2 and Better”) using a sharp 1-inch-wide Speedbor spade bit-the classic design without a lead screw. To evaluate each tool, we made 25 holes through Douglas fir 2 x 8 (Grade: “No. This can help you finish a project a little quicker than you might be able to otherwise. Does the drill come by itself, without a battery and a charger, or does it come with one or two batteries, a charger, and maybe a carrying case? For a little more money, some drills have a rapid charger that quickly replenishes the battery to partial charge in minutes. This is a mechanism that imparts a percussion action to the bit as it rotates, helping a carbide-tip masonry bit to chip away material as it turns.įinally, look at the specs and package.

If you plan to drill into masonry (brick, concrete, mortar, stone, pavers), you need a drill with a hammer option. If you plan a heavy construction project with the tool, such as boring large or deep holes through house or deck framing, this side handle will help you steady the drill with less fatigue and more control, particularly should the tool bind in and kick back. Some cordless drills come with a side handle that you can attach and remove as needed. Thus, it’s less tiring to use when it comes to small repetitive jobs, like hanging window hardware, where you’re likely to be holding the tool above your head. A subcompact drill has a smaller motor and smaller drive gear assembly but is more nimble. A full-size drill has a larger motor and a more stout drive gear assembly. Select a full-size tool over a smaller and lighter model to do heavier work.

The tradeoff for more run time is weight. Batteries typically run from 2 up to 6 Ah. Select a battery with more amp hours (Ah) for a longer run time. With these jobs, the emphasis is on screw driving and not on hole drilling.

These are also easier to handle for jobs like assembling flat-pack furniture, putting together sporting equipment, and the assembly and disassembly work that goes along with repairing appliances. Select a smaller 12-volt drill for minor repairs, basic woodworking, and light carpentry. These are well suited to carpentry, deck building, and remodeling jobs. The most common cordless drills are in the 18- to 20-volt range.
