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Choosing a Power Drill

Hand-held power tools have become an indispensable part of the modern handyman's and contractors' toolbox. Power drills are the most commonly purchased hand-held power tool. You can spend from $30 - $400 for a tool that meets your needs. With that dollar range in mind, you may want to ask yourself a few simple questions before you go shopping. These same questions will also apply to most power tool purchases.

Corded drills are measured in amps. Generally, a higher amperage motor means more power.

What type of material will I be using it on?

Drilling softwood, hardwood, metal, and masonry all require different drill speeds. Harder materials or larger bits have to be worked at lower speed. Conversely, softer materials and smaller bits can be used at higher speeds. Look for a drill with variable speed. Variable speed allows the user to control the bit speed, indispensable when you plan on working different materials and accessories.

Consider choosing a drill with an adjustable clutch setting. The clutch reacts to the resistance of the screw, which changes as the density of the material changes, allowing you to drill holes of consistent depth. Adjusted properly on identical scrap material, a clutch can keep you from driving a screw too deep, which makes this feature indispensable for beginners. An adjustable clutch can also reduce the possibility of stripping a screw head or snapping a screw off altogether.

What kind of chuck do I need?

Chucks can be keyed (the jaws are tightened or loosened with a key) or keyless (the chuck can be tightened or loosened by hand). Keyless chucks offer two major benefits. If you have ever misplaced or lost a chuck key, you already know one of them. A keyless chuck will also allow bits to be changed more quickly. A real plus when you need to change from a drill bit to a screwdriver bit repeatedly or if you happen to be wearing gloves on the job.

You can change the chuck in some keyless models with only one hand because the shaft locks when the trigger is off. In most models, however, you have to use both hands to turn the chuck in opposite directions. While you're in the store, change the bit on different drills to see what style of keyless chuck you prefer.

How long will the battery last?

"It depends" is the correct answer. Factors such as temperature, the material being drilled, whether the drilling is nonstop or intermittent, and the whether the battery is at full charge or not - all these will affect a cordless drill's battery charge.

The standard time required to charge a battery pack will vary from one hour to overnight, depending on the type of tool and charger.

Recharge when the drop in performance and power is noticeable. Don't wait until the tool quits working to recharge the battery.