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How To

How to Use a Power Drill

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(48 Ratings)

You can drill holes, of course, with a power drill. But you can also strip paint, install screws, and sand and polish objects with this versatile tool. Here are the basics of using a drill.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Allen Bits
  • Drill Bit Extensions
  • Drill Bits
  • Drum Sanders
  • Flexible Shafts Attachment
  • Masonry Bits
  • Rotary Sanders
  • Screwdriver Bits
  • Spade Bits
  • Variable-speed Drills
  • Wire Brushes Attachment
  • Drill Bits
  1. Step 1

    Make sure the cord is long enough to reach from the electrical outlet to the place where you plan to use the drill.

  2. Step 2

    Use the chuck key that comes with the drill to open the chuck. Do this by pushing the nubbed end of the key into a hole along the chuck and twisting counterclockwise. The teeth on the chuck key should engage the ones on the drill.

  3. Step 3

    Insert the bit into the chuck and tighten it with the chuck key, turning it clockwise this time. Be sure it's very snug.

  4. Step 4

    Plug the drill in.

  5. Step 5

    Press the trigger before you make contact with the work.

  6. Step 6

    Slowly touch the tip of the bit to the work and apply steady but light pressure.

  7. Step 7

    Maintain the pressure on the drill and the trigger until the hole is completed.

  8. Step 8

    Keep the trigger depressed as you slowly back the bit out of the hole.

  9. Step 9

    Use different attachments - a disk sander, a buffer pad, a hole saw, a bit extender and so forth - to make other jobs easier.

  10. Step 10

    Make a dent with a center punch before drilling metals. This will keep the bit from wandering. It's also a good idea to always drill a pilot hole in metals and hardwoods to prevent binding of the bit.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you want to drill a hole of a certain depth, mark the measurement on the drill bit with a piece of colored electrical tape and stop drilling when you reach the tape.
  • To prevent overheating, use cutting oil when drilling metals.
  • Always wear safety goggles when operating a power drill.
  • Keep long hair and loose sleeves well away from the bit.

Comments  

cluedee said

Flag This Comment

on 10/26/2008 kawasaki 19.2v cordless.
No Chuck key from what I can see. Does anyone that has one of these know how to secure the bits?

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eHow Article: How to Use a Power Drill

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