Using a Power Drill for Household and Other Projects

I'm a big fan of DeWalt power tools and especially my power drill. I've had experience with two models. With the first power drill, I learned not to set the torque and speed too high. I nearly went through the wall and thought surely I'd be thrown into my neighbor's yard. I'm much more experienced now. Whether you use a power drill for simple projects or more difficult projects, they are very helpful. Before using a power drill you need to learn how they operate and what all they can be used for.

Another nifty thing I learned is all of the cool things you can attach to your drill, from twist bits, screwdriver bits, masonry bits, hole saw bits and the list goes on. You can stir paint, sand and polish furniture or other objects and insert screws with your drill. Power drills come in both corded and cordless models. I prefer cordless, but there are pros and cons to each. If your project is far from a power supply, a cordless drill may be preferred.

Tips for Using a Power Drill

READ the instruction manual first.

Decide what you are using the drill for. This seems like a no-brainer, but it's the first step in choosing bits, attachments.

Choose the right size and type of bit. I stress this because you can strip your screws if you don't use the right size (talking from experience). There are bits for wood and metal and then there are bits for masonry. Or choose whatever attachment is appropriate for your project.

Get familiar with the forward and reverse switch. This switch causes the operating mechanism to go either clockwise or counterclockwise. Trust me when I say...you'll be going in both directions!

There is also a trigger, which powers the drill and a torque setting, which ranges from high to low. If in doubt, start in the middle. I've found a middle setting works well for most general projects.

After choosing your bit or attachment, tighten the chuck, choose your speed and torque setting.

Safety goggles are highly recommended.

Screws can be driven in straight, at an angle, flush or sunk. This depends on your project.

When driving in a screw, put some pressure on the drill, holding it steady and firmly. If you see your screw isn't going in straight, back 'er up. Push reverse and guide the screw out, but not completely out. Push the forward switch and try again. Remember that with some projects a pilot hole will need to be drilled first.

Look at each project individually and assess what is required by your drill, the attachments, bits. This can vary greatly, but for general use, the variation isn't so great.

Some dismiss the value of using a power drill for everyday projects such as putting together the put-it-together yourself furniture that has a zillion screws. A power drill will be your best friend!