Why not use an impact driver as a drill

Can you use an impact driver as a drill? Yes, with caution! While an impact driver excels at driving screws, it can drill holes in a pinch, especially in softer materials. Understanding its limitations and using the right bits is key to stunning results without damaging your workpiece or the tool.

Ever stared at your toolbox, a screw needing driving and a hole needing drilling, and wondered if that powerful impact driver could do both jobs? It’s a common question for DIYers and homeowners alike. You’ve got this amazing tool that zips screws in like a dream, but when it comes to drilling, you might hesitate. Is it a one-trick pony, or can it really handle a wider range of tasks? You’re not alone if you’ve worried about overdriving screws, stripping them, or even damaging your workpiece. But what if I told you that with a little know-how, your impact driver can be a surprisingly capable drill, saving you time and money? Let’s dive in and unlock this hidden potential, making sure you get stunning results, affordably.

The Impact Driver vs. The Drill: What’s the Difference?

Before we get into using an impact driver for drilling, it’s crucial to understand how these tools differ. They look similar, they’re both cordless, and they both spin, but their internal mechanisms are quite distinct. This difference is what makes one better suited for certain tasks than the other.

How an Impact Driver Works

An impact driver uses a combination of rotational force and concussive blows, delivered simultaneously. When you pull the trigger, an internal hammer mechanism spins and strikes an anvil. This striking action, known as “impact,” delivers a powerful burst of torque directly to the fastener. Think of it like a tiny, controlled hammer hitting the back of the driver bit as it spins. This is why impact drivers are so effective at driving long screws or lag bolts into tough materials with minimal effort from you.

Key features of an impact driver:

• Impact Mechanism: Rotational and concussive blows.
• Torque: High torque output, ideal for driving fasteners.
• Speed: Often has variable speed settings, but the impact action is the primary driver of power.
• Chuck: Typically has a 1/4-inch hex collet, designed for hex-shank bits.

How a Drill/Driver Works

A standard drill/driver, on the other hand, primarily relies on rotational force. It has a motor that spins a chuck, which holds a drill bit or screwdriver bit. While many drills have a clutch setting to control torque and prevent overdriving screws, they lack the percussive impact of an impact driver. Drills are designed for a wider range of tasks, including drilling holes of various sizes in different materials and driving screws with precision.

Key features of a drill/driver:

• Mechanism: Purely rotational force.
• Torque: Adjustable torque settings via a clutch, offering more control for delicate tasks.
• Speed: Usually has multiple speed settings (e.g., 1 and 2) for different applications.
• Chuck: Features a keyless chuck that can hold round or hex-shank bits of various sizes.

Why Not Use an Impact Driver as a Drill? The Nuances

So, if an impact driver is so powerful, why wouldn’t you just use it for everything, including drilling holes? The main reason comes down to control and the type of action. While an impact driver can drill, its impact mechanism isn’t always ideal for creating clean, precise holes, especially in certain materials.

The Impact Action and Hole Drilling

When you use a standard drill bit in an impact driver, the tool’s hammering action can cause the bit to “walk” or wander, especially when starting a hole. This can result in an off-center hole or a damaged surface. Furthermore, the rapid impacts can generate a lot of heat, potentially dulling the drill bit faster or even melting softer materials like plastic. For very smooth, clean holes in delicate materials like thin metal or acrylic, the impact action can be too aggressive.

However, this doesn’t mean you should never use an impact driver for drilling. It’s all about understanding the limitations and using the right approach.

When Can You Use an Impact Driver for Drilling?

The good news is that your impact driver can absolutely be used to drill holes, and often quite effectively! The key is to select the right bits and be mindful of the material you’re working with. It’s particularly well-suited for drilling into:

• Wood: For general-purpose holes, especially larger ones where a standard drill might bog down.
• Soft Metals: With the right bits and technique, it can handle drilling into aluminum or thinner gauge steel.
• Drywall and Plaster: For mounting fixtures or running wires.
• Masonry (with specific bits): While not ideal for heavy-duty concrete drilling, some impact drivers can handle light masonry work with the correct bits.

Materials Where Caution is Advised

You’ll want to be more careful or avoid using an impact driver for drilling in:

• Hard Metals: Steel, iron, etc., can be challenging and may require specialized bits or a standard drill for better control.
• Glass and Tile: These materials require very slow speeds and consistent pressure, which the impact action can disrupt.
• Delicate Plastics: The impact can cause the plastic to crack or shatter.
• Finished Surfaces: Where a perfectly clean, burr-free hole is critical, a standard drill often provides better control.

How to Use an Impact Driver as a Drill: Step-by-Step

Ready to put your impact driver to work drilling? Follow these steps for the best results. It’s surprisingly straightforward once you know the tricks.

Step 1: Select the Right Drill Bit

This is arguably the most critical step. Not all drill bits are designed for the forces an impact driver can deliver. You need bits specifically made for impact drivers or bits with a hex shank that will securely fit into the impact driver’s collet.

• Impact-Rated Drill Bits: These bits are constructed with stronger materials and have a design that can withstand the concussive blows. They often have a black oxide coating or a titanium coating for durability.
• Hex-Shank Drill Bits: Any drill bit with a 1/4-inch hex shank can be used in an impact driver. This includes many spade bits, auger bits, and even some specialized metal-drilling bits.
• Avoid Round Shanks: Standard drill bits with round shanks will not be held securely in an impact driver’s hex collet and can slip, potentially damaging the bit or the tool.

Pro Tip: Look for bits explicitly labeled “for impact drivers” or those with a 1/4″ hex shank.

Step 2: Insert the Bit Correctly

Impact drivers typically have a 1/4-inch hex collet. To insert a bit:

1. Pull back the collar on the front of the impact driver.
2. Insert the hex shank of your drill bit fully into the collet.
3. Release the collar. It should snap into place, securely holding the bit.

Give the bit a gentle tug to ensure it’s seated properly. If it feels loose, re-insert it, making sure the collar clicks fully into place.

Step 3: Set Your Speed (If Applicable)

Many modern impact drivers have multiple speed settings. For drilling, you’ll generally want to use a higher speed setting. However, if you’re drilling into a harder material or want more control, a lower speed might be better. Consult your tool’s manual for specific recommendations.

Some impact drivers also have a “screw driving” mode and a “drilling” mode. If yours has a drilling mode, ensure it’s engaged. This mode often adjusts the impact frequency and torque delivery to be more suitable for drilling.

Step 4: Start Slowly and Apply Steady Pressure

This is where technique makes a big difference.

1. Position the Bit: Place the tip of the drill bit exactly where you want to start the hole.
2. Start Gently: Begin by squeezing the trigger very lightly. This allows the bit to start turning without the immediate force of the impacts. This initial slow speed helps prevent the bit from “walking.”
3. Increase Speed: Once the bit has started to bite into the material, you can increase the trigger pressure for more speed.
4. Maintain Pressure: Apply consistent, firm pressure directly behind the drill. Let the tool do the work. Avoid leaning too heavily, as this can cause the bit to bind or break.
5. Clear Debris: For deeper holes, periodically pull the bit out of the hole while it’s still spinning slowly to clear out sawdust or metal shavings. This prevents the hole from getting clogged and reduces heat buildup.

Step 5: Be Mindful of the Impacts

Listen to your tool. If you hear rapid, high-pitched impacts, you’re likely drilling effectively. If the impacts sound labored or irregular, you might be pushing too hard, the bit might be dull, or the material might be too tough for the impact driver.

For materials that are sensitive to vibration or impact, you might want to disengage the impact mechanism if your tool has that capability (though most impact drivers don’t have a dedicated “off” for impacts; it’s inherent to their design). In such cases, a standard drill/driver is a better choice.

Choosing the Right Bits: A Deeper Dive

The success of using an impact driver for drilling hinges heavily on the bits you use. Here’s a breakdown of common bit types and their suitability:

Impact-Rated Drill Bits

These are specifically engineered to handle the torque and impacts. They are usually made from high-grade steel and feature a robust shank design. They are the safest bet for impact driver drilling.

Hex-Shank Drill Bits

As mentioned, any bit with a 1/4-inch hex shank will fit. This includes:

• Spade Bits (Paddle Bits): Great for drilling larger holes in wood. Their sharp spurs help start the cut cleanly.
• Auger Bits: Designed for drilling deep, clean holes in wood, especially for framing or joinery.
• Brad-Point Drill Bits: While typically used in standard drills for precision in wood, brad-point bits with hex shanks can work for starting clean holes.
• Step Bits: Excellent for drilling clean holes of varying diameters in thin metal or plastic. Ensure they have a hex shank.

Specialty Bits

Some manufacturers offer bits specifically designed for impact drivers, such as:

• Impact-Rated Hole Saws: For cutting larger diameter holes in wood or metal.
• Impact-Rated Masonry Bits: These have a carbide tip and a hex shank, suitable for light-duty drilling in brick or concrete.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Pros and Cons of Using an Impact Driver as a Drill

Like any tool adaptation, there are advantages and disadvantages to using your impact driver for drilling.

Pros

• Convenience: You might not need to switch tools or grab a separate drill if your impact driver is readily available.
• Power: The high torque of an impact driver can be beneficial for drilling larger holes or in tougher materials where a standard drill might struggle.
• Cost-Effective: If you already own an impact driver, you can perform drilling tasks without buying a separate drill/driver.
• Efficiency: For certain tasks, it can be faster than a standard drill.

Cons

• Less Precision: The impact action can make it harder to achieve perfectly clean, accurate holes, especially in delicate materials.
• Bit Wear: The impacts can cause standard drill bits to wear out faster.
• Surface Damage: The aggressive action can mar surfaces if not used carefully.
• Overheating: Both the bit and the tool can overheat if used for extended periods of heavy drilling.
• Limited Material Suitability: Not ideal for glass, tile, or very hard metals.

When to Stick with a Standard Drill/Driver

While your impact driver is versatile, there are times when a dedicated drill/driver is the superior choice:

• Precision Drilling: For tasks requiring highly accurate hole placement and clean edges, like furniture assembly or fine woodworking.
• Delicate Materials: Drilling into glass, tile, acrylic, or thin, polished metals.
• Extended Drilling: For long, continuous drilling sessions, a drill/driver might offer better heat management and control.
• Using Round-Shank Bits: If you have a collection of standard round-shank bits, you’ll need a drill/driver to use them.
• Clutch Control: When you need the fine-tuned torque control of a drill’s clutch to prevent overdriving screws in soft materials or to avoid stripping screw heads.

For a comprehensive understanding of drill/drivers, resources like Popular Mechanics’ guide to cordless drills can offer further insights into their capabilities.

Maintaining Your Tools for Optimal Performance

Whether you’re using your impact driver for driving screws or drilling holes, proper maintenance ensures it performs at its best and lasts longer.

• Keep it Clean: After use, wipe down your impact driver to remove dust and debris, especially around the ventilation ports.
• Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures. Charge them before they fully deplete for maximum battery life.
• Chuck Maintenance: Periodically check the collet for debris. If it feels stiff, a drop of light lubricant might help, but avoid over-lubricating.
• Inspect Bits: Regularly check your drill bits for damage, wear, or dullness. Replace them as needed to maintain cutting efficiency and reduce strain on your tool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)