1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Home Repair

Power Drill Tool Profile

By , About.com Guide

Power Drill with Keyless Chuck

© Home-Cost.com 2006

How the Power Drill is Used:


The drill is a versatile power tool that drills holes in hard materials such as wood, plastic, metal and masonry. With a variable speed feature, this tool is also often used as a power screwdriver.

How To Use a Power Drill

Variations:


The drill comes in corded and cordless versions. It has available features such as variable speed, reverse and some versions designed for masonry drilling will have a "hammer drill" feature to speed the process.

Drills typically come in chuck sizes accommodating drill bits ranging from 1/4" to 1/2". Another feature of the modern drill is the keyless chuck, which enables you to insert and remove drills without a special "key" tool.

Materials of Construction:


The body of the power drill is made of a high impact plastic. The drill chuck is made of a metal alloy.

Price:


Tool prices change constantly. Click below to compare the latest offers.
Cordless Drill
Compare Prices

Corded Power Drill
Compare Prices

Tool Tips and Advice:


The power drill is a must have in your tool kit and is one of the most versatile tools you can own. You will want to get one with features such as variable speed and reverse and at least a 3/8" chuck.

A 1/2" chuck will give you tremendous flexibility but is not generally needed for most home repair tasks. Also, try to get one with a keyless chuck. You'll never have to worry about keeping track of a little tool to tighten the drill bit into the chuck, it can be easily done by hand.

Thinking Cordless
The cordless drill is a true convenience but just be careful to get one with adequate battery power. One of the most confusing features is the battery voltage on cordless tools. For general consumer tools you'll typically see 12V (12 volt). Don't buy anything less than that like 10V or 8V. There's just not enough power or capacity for drilling at any extended period. For serious home repair enthusiasts and pros, the 18V or 24V battery packs are the pack of choice.<br><br>You'll want a cordless drill kit with 2 battery packs and a charger. Try holding a demo model in the store to see how the balance feels in your hand. The grip, balance and weight of these cordless drills vary considerably.

Explore Home Repair

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Make Your Own Scented Pine Cones

Bring a little of the fall season in your home with this easy-to-make craft. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Home Repair
  4. Tools for Home Repair
  5. Tool Profiles
  6. Power Drill Tool Profile

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.