How to Use a Power Drill

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

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. 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. 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. Plug the drill in.

5. Press the trigger before you make contact with the work.

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

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

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

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. 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.