Do you plan on buying a power drill? It is a lot more complicated than just going to a store and picking what looks good. Whether you are getting it for use in your workshop or at home, you must know what to look for. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind.
- Corded or Cordless?
Both corded and cordless drills have unique benefits. Cordless drills, for example, are more mobile. They have more features than corded options. If you are getting a cordless power drill for use at home, voltage ratings 4 to 8 may be enough to get the job done.
However, you will need high-power handles for commercial use. They have bigger, more powerful batteries. If you choose cordless power drills, arrange to have a spare battery. You shouldn’t have to stop working when recharging a battery.
Corded power drills operate on a higher power. Even though they are light, they are just as powerful as the cordless options. Check the amp ratings to determine the power of your drill.
The main benefit of corded power drills is that you do not need to stop and recharge a battery. With a steady supply of power, you can work without any breaks.
Its limitation, however, is that mobility is limited. You cannot use them far from a power outlet.
- Speed
Power drills come in various speed options. Choose one with varied speeds and an adjustable clutch for versatility. You will need to use different drilling speeds and torque for hardwood, metal, and softwood.
When drilling large parts and hard material, you need more torque and lower speed. However, soft materials require low torque and faster speeds. A power drill with a well-adjusted clutch will ensure that the screw does not go too deep when you are working. You can read more here to find out how It lowers the possibility of the screws snapping off. Choose a drill with a gearing switch. It makes it easy to control the speed and torque of your power drill.
- Batteries and Chargers
When buying a cordless drill, think about the chargers and batteries. Modern drills may use three battery types: Nickel Metal Hydride, Lithium-Ion, and Nickel Cadmium. However, older ones may use NiCad batteries. They are much heavier and bulkier. Where possible, choose lightweight and compact battery designs. They are not only slicker but also great for storing power. Li-Ion batteries have a shorter charge time and longer life.
Pick chargers with heat sensors and a fast-charging feature. That way, your batteries will charge faster and you will have a lower chance of experiencing battery damage.
Pick a drill that uses the right charger and battery. Even though such drills may be pricey, they are worth the cost.
- Design and Comfort
Like any other tool, your power drill should have a pleasant design. You should be able to use it without strain. While most drills feel great when you pick them up, they may not maintain the same level of comfort after a few hours. Consider the amount you will be doing and how long you will have to handle the drill. The power you need for the job should be proportional to the weight and size of the drill.
While the first thing you need to test is the comfort of drill handles, there is something else you must consider. Part of what makes a drill comfortable to use is the drill bits. It’s worth investing in high-quality center drills, spotting drills, and other drill bits for breezy hole-making, reducing hand strain.
Drill handles come in two main styles; almost in the middle of the body, and at the rear. If the handle is close to the middle of the body, the weight will be evenly distributed to promote balance. Handles at the rear of the body are likely to cause wrist strain.
- Size
The right power drill should be just the right size for your needs. Usually, they come in the sizes ¼ inch, ½ inch, and 3/8 inch. If you need a drill for light work, the ¼ inch option is your best option. 3/8 inch drills are versatile and suitable for various applications. If you are looking for a drill to handle heavy applications, choose the ½ inch option.
In conclusion, choosing the right power drill for home or commercial use is important. Whether you want it for every-day use or for a one-time project, it is important to know what you need. The first step is to think about your needs and decide whether you want a corded or cordless drill. Even though there are many options in the market, picking the right one for your specific needs is not easy. Important things to consider include the design and comfort levels of the drill, its size, speed, batteries, and chargers.
