How to Buy a Power Drill

You thought you'd just go out and buy a drill - and then you saw that there are a hundred different kinds! How do you choose?

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Buffing Pads
• Circle Cutters
• Drill Bits
• Drill Sanding Tools
• Flexible Shafts
• Variable-speed Drills

1. 

   Think of a standard electric hand drill when talking about a drill. (Other types are close-quarters, drywall, hammer drill, drill-screwdriver, D-handle, and right-angle. If you need one of those other kinds, you'll know it!)

2. 

   Decide whether you'll need a 1/4-, 3/8- or 1/2-inch chuck. This is the part of the drill that the bits fit into. Most household-use drills are 3/8-inch. The 1/4-inch type is great for boring small holes but has limited torque; the 1/2-inch model is not very good for sanding and grinding because it is typically slower.

3. Choose a drill with a reverse feature. This not only makes the drill handy as a power screwdriver, but is also very helpful in backing a bit out of a hole.

4. 

   Pick a drill with variable speeds if you wish to use accessories with it, such as circle cutters, buffing pads, flexible shafts and sanding tools.

5. Keep an eye out for models with long cords - at least 8 feet - if you will be moving around a lot with the tool.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that any accessories you get are made for the same-size chuck as your drill.