by Kevin Hartford

Created on: August 27, 2007

Probably one of the best time savings tools ever invented is te power drill. There are many types and choosing one is almost as difficult as choosing a paint color. In reality, the answer depends on what you intend to use it for.

It is important to realize that there is a difference between a corded drill and a battery powered drill. Corded drills are good if you intend to use it constantly during the day. It always seems that no matter how organized you are the batteries never get charged, so it is good to have the corded drill so work does not stop.

On the other hand, battery powered drills are good to use out in the middle of nowhere. In addition it is easy for those constantly on the move to carry around and whip it out when you have a quick job to do. My advice is to choose an 18 or 24 volt system, this should provide enough power for most drilling jobs.

Other options include hammer drills and power screw drivers. There are drills that include the hammer option which is good for drilling through concrete and other masonry. The hammer drill does require a masonry bit. Other drills also have the torque to be a screw driver as well. This is a hand option and screw bits are pretty cheap. Screw bits are considered consumables, so don't think that just one will last forever. Be careful about using this tool though, it is very easy to strip out the screw head.

Speaking of bits, be sure to pick the right bit for the right application. Again this is an area to stay organized. Do not use metal bits on wood or wood bits on metal. You will eventually drill the hole, but you will burn out the bit and have to replace them.

There are things to consider when you are using a power drill: application, power supply, and the drill bits. By understanding these things, drilling will be a snap.

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