Are you tired of switching back and forth between your drill and impact driver when working on a project? If so, can you drill with an impact driver? Many DIY enthusiasts and professionals ask these questions. The answer is not a simple yes or no.
There are a few things to consider before deciding whether or not to use an impact driver for drilling tasks. Below, we’ll explore everything you need to know about using an impact driver for drilling, including its pros and cons, accessories, and safety tips.
What’s An Impact Driver?
As a power tool, an impact driver is primarily used for effortlessly driving screws and fasteners. Also called a hammer drill, it boasts a high torque output, even with little to no effort from the user.
It works by using a combination of rotational force and concussive blows to help drive screws and fasteners into different materials. The rotational force comes from the motor, while the concussive blows are delivered by a mechanism inside the tool called an impact mechanism.
Differences Between Impact Drivers and Drills
Impact drivers and drills may look similar, but they differ significantly in terms of their design and function.
How They Work
Drills are primarily for drilling holes and driving screws, and they achieve this through high-speed rotational force. They can be used to drill into various materials such as wood, metal, concrete, and others.
In contrast, impact drivers are specifically designed for driving screws and fasteners. They use rotational energy and concussive blows to drive fasteners into all kinds of materials.
The tool’s internal mechanism delivers concussive blows, resulting in high torque output with minimal effort from the user. This combination of rotational and concussive forces makes impact drivers more effective for driving screws and fasteners than standard drills.
Types of Bits Used
Another difference between the two tools is in the type of drill bits they use. Drills typically use straight shank bits, which are inserted into a chuck that clamps down on the bit to hold it in place.
In comparison, impact drivers use hexagonal shank bits that lock into place in the chuck. The hexagonal shape allows for a more secure and tighter grip on the bit, reducing the risk of the bit slipping or falling out during use.
Uses
While hammer drills can be used for drilling tasks, they are not as effective as drills. Impact drivers lack the high-speed rotational force necessary to drill holes effectively.
Additionally, the concussive blows delivered by the hammering action can cause the bit to move around. Often, this can result in a larger hole than intended or even cause the bit to break.
Can You Drill With An Impact Driver?
While it is possible to use your impact driver for drilling, it is not recommended. Impact drivers are not really designed for drilling tasks, and using them for this purpose can cause damage to the tool, the drill bit, and the type of material being drilled.
Again, the impact mechanism in the tool may cause the bit to move around, resulting in a larger hole than intended or even causing the bit to break.
Are there instances where it’s okay to use an impact driver for drilling? There are some situations where it may be okay to use an impact driver for common drilling jobs.
For example, if you are drilling a small hole into soft wood, an impact driver may work just fine. For more demanding drilling tasks, such as drilling into metal or concrete, a drill is the more practical choice.
Impact Driver Accessories for Drilling
While it is not recommended to use an impact driver for drilling tasks, if you do decide to go this route, using the right accessories can make the job easier and more effective.
By selecting the appropriate chuck adapter, drill bit, or screwdriver bit, you can help ensure that the job is completed safely and effectively. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper usage guidelines when using any power tool, including an impact driver.
Here are a few accessories that can help you get the job done:
Chuck Adapters
DEWALT Drill Chuck for Impact Driver
These adapters allow you to attach drill bits to your hammer drill. Most impact drivers come with a hexagonal chuck designed to hold screwdriver bits. With a chuck adapter, you can use regular drill bits. This can be a more cost-effective option than purchasing a separate drill.
Drill Bits for Impact Drivers
Makita B-65399 Titanium Drill Bit Set
There are drill bits specifically designed for impact drivers. These are made from high-speed steel and have a special shank to fit into the hexagonal chuck of an impact driver. Using these bits can help ensure the bit stays in place and reduce the risk of slipping or breaking.
Screwdriver Bits
Jackson Palmer 218 Piece Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set
While screwdriver bits are not specifically designed for drilling, they can be used for this purpose. However, keep in mind that they may not be as effective as drill bits, particularly for harder materials.
If you are using a screwdriver bit for drilling, make sure to apply steady pressure. Avoid using excessive force to reduce the risk of damaging the bit or the material being drilled.
Pros and Cons of Using An Impact Driver for Drilling
Again, using an impact driver for drilling is not recommended. That said, there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider if you do decide to use one.
Advantages:
Quick Switching
One of the advantages of using an impact driver for drilling is that you can quickly switch between drilling and driving tasks without having to change tools. This can save time and energy, especially if you have a lot of screws to drive and holes to drill.
Compact Design
Impact drivers are typically more compact and lightweight than drills, making them easier to handle in tighter spaces or overhead work.
High Torque Output
Impact drivers deliver high torque output with minimal effort from the user. This can be useful for driving screws as well as fasteners into denser materials.
Disadvantages
Potential for Bit Slippage or Breakage
The concussive blows delivered by the hammering action can cause the driver bit to move around, slip, or break. This can result in larger or unevenly shaped holes or damaged bits.
Risk of Damaging the Tool or Material
Impact drivers are not designed to handle even basic drilling tasks. As such, using them for this purpose can cause damage not only to the tool but also to the material being drilled. Overheating, wear and tear, and damage to the drill chuck or hammering mechanism can occur if an impact driver is used for drilling frequently.
Limited Functionality
Impact drivers are not as versatile as drills; they are not designed to handle a variety of drilling tasks or materials. For example, drilling into harder materials like metal or concrete can be challenging with an impact driver. In comparison, a drill can easily handle these materials.
How To Drill With An Impact Driver
While an impact driver can be an all-around power tool for driving screws and fasteners, it is not a replacement for a drill when it comes to drilling tasks. If you do decide to use it for drilling, there are steps to follow to ensure the task is completed safely and effectively.
Step 1: Ensure you have the correct bit and adapter for the task at hand.
Step 2: Set the impact driver to a low torque setting.
Step 3: Position the bit at a slight angle to the material being drilled.
Step 4: Apply steady pressure to the tool, and avoid using excessive force.
Impact Driver Safety Tips
As with any power tool, it is important to follow safety guidelines when using an impact driver. Here are some that the pros swear by:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye and ear protection.
- Use the tool in a well-ventilated area, and ensure that the work area is clear of debris and other hazards.
- Never force the tool or exceed its rated capacity.
- Always use the correct bit and adapter for the task at hand.
Additionally, make sure the impact driver is turned off and unplugged when changing bits or accessories.
Drilling With An Impact Driver
While it is possible, it is not recommended to use an impact driver for drilling. These tools are not designed for drilling tasks, and using them for this purpose can cause damage to the tool and the material being drilled.
However, if you do decide to use an impact driver for drilling, make sure to follow the proper safety guidelines and use the appropriate accessories. Remember to always prioritize safety when using power tools.
By understanding the differences between impact drivers and drills and knowing when it’s okay to use an impact driver for drilling, you can make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right tool for your project.
