A drill instead of a screwdriver is it possible

Work principles

It should always be borne in mind that you are going to use the tool not for its intended purpose, respectively, this is associated with some difficulties and limitations.

Basic rules for safe and efficient work with a drill as a screwdriver:

• Follow safety requirements. Handle the instrument with care.
• It is not necessary to tighten the screws to the end. this is fraught with breakage of the tool, bit or screwing object. Experienced craftsmen advise to underscrew the screws a little, and then finish by hand with a screwdriver.
• For a secure attachment of the bit, it is recommended to use extended bits or a specialized bit holder.
• For wood material, in order to avoid splitting the wood, it is recommended to first drill the holes, and only then tighten the screws.

Of course, it is better to use a screwdriver for such purposes, but a drill will also cope with such types of work.

Comparison of screwdriver and drill

To begin with, it is worth understanding the distinctive features of these tools, because, although they both make a rotational movement, their purpose is different.

The main difference is the rotational speed of the working spindle. the screwdriver rotates much slower than the drill. Also, it has no inertia. the tool stops at the same time when the mechanism is turned off. The spindle, while drilling, continues to rotate for some time after turning off.

A drill is a potentially more dangerous tool than a screwdriver, therefore, when working with it, special safety measures are required. safety glasses, in addition to the usual care, accuracy and caution.

The choice of the operating mode is another difference between the considered instruments. The drill, in addition to the main one, also has an impact mode, while the screwdriver is regulated only by the spindle rotation speed.

As you can see from the comparison, the drill is less suitable for working with screws and bolts, however, it can be adapted for this case.

How to use a drill as a screwdriver?

First of all, you need to select the appropriate tool model for your purposes and by the type of screws / bolts nozzles. bits. They should be installed in place of the drill in the spindle chuck.

Further, if possible, it is recommended to reduce the rotational speed of the mechanism. this will make the work safer, as well as keep the tool and attachments in working condition. at low speeds they wear out less. Some models have speed controllers, while others you can manually adjust the speed by changing the mechanism or electrical circuit.

For experienced craftsmen, it will not be a serious problem to work with a drill as a screwdriver and at high speeds, but there is always a risk of damaging the bit or screw, cutting off the screw head, “screwing” the material through, etc.

It is also worth considering that drilling tools do not have a splitting sleeve (it is responsible for preventing breakage of the tool mechanism when the engine is suddenly stopped), so the necessary work should be done carefully. It is recommended to use more durable bits than for a screwdriver.

Using a drill as a screwdriver

Typically, a drill is used to drill holes in a wide variety of materials. it can be wood, plastic and even metal. There are also grinding and cutting attachments for this tool.

There are several types of drills:

• Manual;
• Pneumatic;
• Electrical.

The principle of operation of the tool is to transfer rotation to a drill or other attachment, due to which it is possible to perform various types of work. construction, locksmith, finishing, etc. “If I use a drill for such a large number of tasks, can I find another use for it? “. so many people would probably think. And the answer is yes, you can expand the list of works for this tool and add screwing screws, screws to it.

Pros and cons of using a drill as a screwdriver

Despite the rather forced use of the tool in an unusual area, such a solution also has some advantages:

• Due to the a priori higher number of revolutions and increased speed, the drill copes with the tasks set faster than a screwdriver;
• Due to the greater effort, it is possible to screw screws into harder and harder materials (some metals, etc.);
• The ability to use one tool for a whole range of diverse work.

There are also disadvantages:

• Drills, as a rule, are heavier and cumbersome. it is not always possible to get to hard-to-reach places;
• To use them as a screwdriver, you need a certain skill;
• The drill is not applicable for thin and fragile materials (plastic, drywall, planks less than 20 mm, etc.), as well as furniture;
• Observance of special safety measures is required. safety glasses, underscrewing screws, exclusion of shocks during work, etc.;
• Heavy tool wear (bits and bits) and a significant risk of damage to screws.

It can be concluded that a drill can occasionally be used as a screwdriver, but you should not abuse such inappropriate use.

How to replace a screwdriver with a conventional drill: 3 useful tips

Ingenuity helps to get out of difficult situations associated with a lack of tools. A drill can replace a screwdriver. Knowledge and adherence to safety rules is the first condition for working with this tool. Therefore, to the question “is it possible to make a screwdriver out of a drill?” there will be a positive answer. We will talk about the intricacies and secrets of the process in the article.

Which is better a drill or screwdriver?

The principle of operation of a drill and a screwdriver is similar. The devices differ from each other in that the first tool is equipped with a limiter for the rotation of the chuck when the resistance reaches its highest point. If you tighten the screws with a drill, it is important not to miss this moment. then the surface will not be damaged, and the corners of the bolt will not be smoothed (this will significantly reduce the adhesion of the surfaces).

The drill is designed for drilling holes, and the screwdriver is for screwing in self-tapping screws, but they can be replaced with one another. There are drill bits that turn it into a screwdriver. Nozzles are:

• simple;
• with limiter.

The stop does not allow the self-tapping screw to enter too deep into the surface. This effect is provided by the restrictive rim present on the nozzle.

It is impossible to say which is preferable. a drill or screwdriver. since the two tools perform different functions.

Using a drill as a screwdriver

In the absence of attachments (and the ability to purchase them), it is recommended to use the following strategy. There is no splitting sleeve in the drill, which leads to unpleasant consequences. Using this tool as a screwdriver without the necessary attachment can be fraught with:

• breakage of the screw head;
• broken bit;
• by the combustion of the drill.

Tighten screws or bolts with a drill not to the bitter end, but leave at least half a centimeter outside the surface. It is generally optimal to screw the rest of the screw into the surface by hand. Yes, you will waste time, but keep the drill safe.

The drill can also be used for its intended purpose (drilling surfaces). Drill a hole in the surface of the material to be used, then carefully screw in the screw. This will be much faster than screwing in the screw by hand. In addition, you will definitely not damage the surface, creating a more delicate mount without delamination of the material. Useful if you need to drive a screw into wood.

Is it realistic to tighten screws with a drill? You can, but do not lose sight of one feature of the screwdriver. This is a kind of symbiosis of a Phillips screwdriver and a drill. A tool with speed control will be especially appropriate. The slower it runs, the less risk of failure. With skill and a good reaction, furniture assembly (and other construction work) will go even faster with a drill.

Based on the above information, it can be concluded that there are three ways to get a high-quality result when using a drill instead of a screwdriver:

Use special nozzles with a limiting rim;

Do not screw the screws into the surface completely, making the last few turns by hand;

Drill the surface in advance, and then screw the bolts into the hole made.

Just always be careful and follow safety precautions when working with tools.
Watch the video: How to use a drill instead of a screwdriver?

Can I be used as a drill?

As mentioned above, basically a screwdriver is used for such things to unscrew or twist something. When using a screwdriver as a drill, carefully read the instructions. is this possible in the instructions from the manufacturer.

If, nevertheless, it is possible to use a screwdriver as a drill in order to drill and make a hole, for example, in a wooden or plastic product, then it is recommended to put a small and even piece of wood under this or that object. So your hole will be made better and will prevent cracks and chips from appearing.

If you use metal in your work, then here you need to adhere to some simple rules. Before you start drilling, the hole must be tilted to prevent the drill from slipping on the metal. Select the drilling mode and get to work. But here we must not forget that when drilling for metal, the drill may break. To prevent this, it is not recommended to press hard on the tool. If it happens that the drill gets stuck, then switch the screwdriver to the unscrewing mode, and calmly unscrew the drill.

But nevertheless, it is recommended for these purposes to purchase a special model of a drill-screwdriver, which can also be both mains-powered and battery-powered.

Twisting wires

A screwdriver with a specific nozzle is excellent for twisting the separated ends of the wires. Usually, twisting is done with pliers, but those who wish can use a screwdriver, using it for this purpose. The main thing is to correctly perform this tricky procedure.

How to prepare for work?

The first thing you will need to do in order to get started is to remove the screwdriver from the case or suitcase and check for visible damage, chips or cracks. If you notice that something is wrong with the tool, then in no case should you use it, as it may be unsafe. Be sure to make sure that the battery of the screwdriver is charged, or the screwdriver itself is connected to the mains. When these conditions are met, the screwdriver is turned on to idle and check the correspondence of the rotation of the nozzle and the thread on the fastener. If all the conditions are met, then you can safely start work.

Be sure to select and properly fix the bit or drill depending on where and how you are going to work. How to fix them, we mentioned above when we talked about changing the nozzle.

When using the device directly, you must also follow a number of simple rules and requirements.

Pay close attention to the screwdriver itself. There is a special scale on it, by rotating which it is possible to regulate the power of the instrument. When you turn the dial, set the mode you need, focusing on what kind of work you are currently doing.

Modes:

Switching between these tool capabilities is fairly easy and straightforward. It is only necessary to hold the screwdriver by the handle located above the battery. Most often, the handle is covered with a material that is rubberized. That is why such a processed handle is safe to work with and guarantees that the screwdriver will not fall out of your hand while working. For greater reliability, the tool is attached to the hand with a strap.

Features of drilling concrete

As noted above, the screwdriver can be used in different fields and in different ways. Electric screwdrivers can drill wood, concrete and many other materials. Carefully read the instructions for using this or that model, since it is there that it is written there, for which materials it can be used for drilling.

Very powerful drills are used for drilling concrete. Most often, such tools work in percussion mode, but even with such a device, drilling a concrete wall is quite problematic. Therefore, for such cases, it is better to use a special diamond drill.

Use cases

The correct use of a screwdriver is its use according to the instructions or the established documentation. According to these documents, the main area of ​​use is directly the ability to screw in and out various fasteners, as well as for drilling various holes.

Depending on the capabilities, one or another model can be used both in everyday life and in the professional sphere. Household screwdrivers are cheaper and have low power, while professional models have increased power, high performance and wider functionality for use.

But some users use a screwdriver, for example, for such non-standard things as polishing a car to stir mixtures or paints, for sanding various surfaces, for twisting wires, tying fittings and even for drilling holes in ice.

Device and principle of operation

The screwdriver can be used in various fields of activity and for various actions, for example, in everyday life, during construction, assembling and disassembling furniture, in various workshops and where many fasteners are used. They can drill, thread, twist and unscrew fasteners. Let’s get acquainted with the device and the principle of operation of such a mechanism.

All screwdrivers are divided into three types:

• working from a regular network and called network;
• powered by a charged battery and called rechargeable batteries;
• powered by both mains and battery. combined option.

All screwdrivers are very similar in both external and internal structure. They consist of elements such as:

• body;
• cartridge;
• power button;
• rotation switch;
• speed regulator;
• power-on lock button;
• tightening force regulator.

Some models additionally have backlighting, and some lack one or another element. So, models powered by the mains have a power cord, while rechargeable models have a charge storage.

The body of the power tool consists of two parts and can be made of plastic or an alloy of various metals, but this is much less common.

Inside it are:

• electric motor;
• pay;
• capacitor;
• reducer;
• clutch.

The principle of operation of all screwdrivers is similar to each other. the electric motor is set in rotary motion with the help of consumed electricity, which transfers the force by means of the gearbox and the shaft from the motor to the existing nozzle installed in the chuck, and the nozzle already performs the process of drilling, screwing in or unscrewing the fasteners. For network screwdrivers, the motor uses an alternating voltage of 200 V, and in cordless ones. a constant voltage of 3.5 V to 36 V.

Replacing the nozzle is also fairly easy and straightforward. In this case, the screwdriver can have a quick-release chuck or a turnkey.

Changing the nozzle with a quick-release chuck:

• first you need to choose a drill for the work that you plan to perform, or a bit, taking into account the size of the head, the type of slot;
• the cartridge is unscrewed counterclockwise;
• install the selected nozzle;
• rotating the cartridge case in the clockwise direction, the nozzle is clamped.

Changing the nozzle with a turnkey chuck:

• take a key and insert it into a special recess;
• untwist the cartridge;
• insert a new nozzle;
• rotate the key in the clockwise direction, securing the nozzle.

How to drive screws with a drill/driver

Rebar tying

The screwdriver can be used to knit reinforcement using steel wire. This is widespread in construction, when various reinforced concrete structures of houses and foundations are being erected. In order to knit, take a cordless or mains tool that has a hook attachment.

How to use a screwdriver correctly?

• Device and principle of operation
• How to prepare for work?
• Use cases
• Twisting wires
• Rebar tying
• Features of drilling concrete
• Can I be used as a drill?
• Useful tips for use

Many craftsmen prefer to use a screwdriver instead of a screwdriver. It allows you to save time and get the job done quickly and efficiently. Let’s get acquainted with the principles of operation and the device of this tool, find out the scope of its application and operation rules, and also give some useful tips.

How to adjust RPM and effort

The rotation speed is changed by a switch, which is located on the screwdriver body. High speed is used for large bolts and self-tapping screws, as well as for drilling, if this function is present.

Many models have a force limiting clutch. Its presence in a power tool can be identified by a rotating ring with numbers. Some users do not understand the meaning of the clutch and do not touch it. Using a ratchet, you can adjust the screw-in depth of the self-tapping screw. In a material that is too soft, the head of the fastener is easily recessed and can go through. When using small fasteners, very high torques can destroy them. The ratchet prevents cutting of the slot at the self-tapping screws and the wear of the screwdriver bits. To determine the desired value on the adjusting ring, make several passes, starting from the minimum. The maximum torque is used for the drilling mode. But only if there is such a function.

Force limiting clutch

The start button also controls the rotation speed, but not more than the one set by the switch. Let’s say you put the switch on the first speed, which is declared up to 800 rpm. When the trigger is pulled to the maximum, the speed will not rise higher. And the torque in the maximum mode will be low, that is, you will not be able to tighten large self-tapping screws and drill. And if you set the switch to maximum speed, you can drill and the RPM will be much higher.

Adjust speed, torque and reverse when the tool is off.

Drill-screwdriver device

The symbiosis of screwdrivers and drills is most often performed in the form of a pistol (see figure below).

The design of the unit is characterized by the following elements (the numbering corresponds to the figure).

• Housing. In models of the “pro” class, the body is usually made of plastic of special strength, resistant to impacts and falls of the instrument. The inner part of the device consists of an electric motor, a cooling system (air), control modules and switching operating modes.
• Lever. Ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably in the hand. Often the handle has rubber inserts to prevent the tool from slipping.
• Battery. The battery can be of the type shown above or hidden in the handle of the tool.
• Start button. The frequency of revolutions of the chuck of the unit depends on the force of pressing the trigger.
• Rotation direction switching button. It is located in a convenient place and allows you to easily and quickly switch between spindle rotation modes.
• Speed ​​shifter. Usually it works in 2-positions (2 speeds): the first position (low speed) is used to operate the unit in screwdriver mode, the second (high speed) switches the machine to drilling mode.
• Cartridge. Various working tools are clamped into this element of the unit (bits, drills or special devices).
• Chuck jaws.
• A ratchet is an element that allows you to adjust the screw tightening force (torque). In order not to twist a screw, for example, a furniture screw, the required clamping force on the ratchet is set. When a certain force is reached, the clutch slips and tightening stops. This function helps to avoid damage to the product. The range of adjustable efforts can range from 4-6 positions (in budget models) and reach 20 or more in expensive devices. The regulator also has a drilling mode, indicated by a drill icon, so that the working tool does not stop during this process. The presence of a ratchet is the main difference between the apparatus and the drill.
• Backlight. Some models of the “pro” class have a backlight element at their disposal. This is usually an LED located at the top of the handle. Such an addition is convenient, for example, when assembling furniture, when it is necessary to carry out drilling work inside the cabinet, where lighting is limited.

Tool weight

A very important indicator is the mass that a screwdriver or drill has. When working at height, it is recommended to use the compact model of the drill driver. If it is supposed to use the unit as a drill, then an electrical appliance with a larger mass will behave better.

What to look for when choosing

When choosing a two-speed drill-driver, it is worthwhile to clearly understand for what purposes it will be used and what loads it will have to face. Any craftsman, be it a pro or a home craftsman, needs to have an idea of ​​the main characteristics of the components.

Other application

Using various attachments, the tool can perform the following work:

Polishing with a special nozzle

Chamfering tool

Angle nozzle and flexible shaft for easy handling

Sharpening knives with a screwdriver

Rivet attachment

Turbo shears for cutting corrugated board

Dryer from a screwdriver

There are many more uses for this tool. But remember that you need to work with goggles and gloves.

For the convenience of work, especially in hard-to-reach places, the attachments are magnetized. This can be done in several ways.

Can I use a drill as a screwdriver

Difficult, but possible. I built a dacha. all the fasteners. self-tapping screws. twisted with an ordinary domestic drill. 400 watts monost, with speed control. the largest self-tapping screws are 6×150. Only the recoil tortured, but pumped up the hands!

I also twisted small screws up to the smallest, here the skill and adjustment of the drill is already important. so that when the trigger is pressed, it slowly turns.

And use the screwdriver as a drill! The drill is very good. big cr. moment. So it tears off, cuts and scrolls. It is better to spend skill on the quality of the result than on the struggle with the obvious.

Sergey
Shl The tool must be used for its intended purpose.

Among the electric tools, the drill-driver takes the leading place, judging by the sales. This is the most purchased tool, since it is distinguished by its practicality and versatility: 2 units are combined in one device at once. This is a drill (for drilling holes) and a screwdriver (used for twisting and unscrewing screws), and sometimes a hammer drill.

Method 1

You will need to purchase a special device for magnetizing and demagnetizing screwdrivers. Insert the bat there. A square window magnetizes, and a stepped window. vice versa.

Device for magnetizing and demagnetizing

Device for magnetizing and demagnetizing

Which is better to choose. drill or screwdriver for home: 3 selection criteria

Minor home repairs, nailing shelves and installing paintings. this requires drilling, twisting or unwinding. To do this job yourself and quickly, you need the right tool. For everyday needs, it is impractical to have a lot of different tools, but there should definitely be one thing. It remains to make a purchase decision: drill or screwdriver?

The difference between a drill and a screwdriver

Tools are equally successful in drilling, screwing in screws, punching holes in concrete, stone, and brick surfaces. But the existing differences in their mechanisms do not allow us to close our eyes to the peculiarities of the first and second home helper. Take at least the screwdriver ratchet, which the drill lacks. The add-on allows you to adjust the force with which screws, screws and self-tapping screws are screwed in. Conveniently? And how!

Understanding which is better, a drill or a screwdriver, is not easy. It is worth starting from what this or that tool is needed for. Corded drills and screwdrivers are faster, have more power, weight and drill diameter in different materials. Yes, they are more efficient at work, but definitely not more convenient than a light tool weighing 1.2 kg.

For more practical work without a mains connection, use cordless tools. If you take cordless screwdrivers and compare them to drills, they are more popular, cheaper and more common. Their “weak point”. power. A power drill, judging by the impressive indicator of this parameter, works much more efficiently.

So choose: drill or screwdriver?

How often do you plan to use the instrument? Lightweight electric screwdrivers have much less powerful, lower voltage motors than most cordless drills. Therefore, they may not cope with the task if they screw long screws with a gap into hard woods. 18- and 20-volt cordless drills can handle almost any screwdriving task. Even a cheap drill is more powerful and more durable than a cordless screwdriver. Therefore, this toolkit is suitable for working with the hardest building materials. Drilling in walls, installation of complex structures in places with electricity. all this is under the power of a drill.

Tip: A screwdriver with less rpm is much better controlled. Therefore, if we are talking about irregular small works, then it is better to choose a screwdriver. It is also more suitable if the work consists solely in screwing self-tapping screws, screws and screws.

Work in places without electricity. To make a couple of holes, it is better to use a cordless screwdriver than a power drill of the same type. For example, the Bort BAB-10 screwdriver, which is powered by a battery, is more convenient and cheaper. it makes no sense to buy an expensive cordless drill for household use.

Comfort level at work. The power of cordless drills is increased by the added weight. Some professional cordless drills weigh up to 3 kg, which makes them tiresome for long periods of time. Less powerful household drills are lighter, but even they cannot compete in lightness with electric screwdrivers, which weigh less than a pound. If the heavy weight and the presence of a wire from the drill interfere with work, then it is better to purchase a cordless screwdriver. He works productively with wood, plastic, metal, precisely screwing fasteners.

Universal drills

In order not to think about the choice for a long time, make a “knight’s move”. The universal tool combines the functionality of both assistants, expanding the range and increasing the efficiency of work. In appearance, it looks more like a screwdriver, but on the ratchet, turn on the jamming mode of the drill connection. and a drill appears in front of you. If you buy an impact attachment, it can do even more tasks.

Drill-screwdrivers by power source are divided into mains-powered and battery-powered.

Price difference

Cost also plays a big role in choosing the perfect home tool. Drills are not only practical and powerful, but also quite budgetary. A particularly optimal option can be chosen from the household range. Their initial cost is quite within the power of every owner.

Tip: Mains powered tools are not so easy to use (more weight, wires), but they quickly cope with work on wood, metal and concrete.

Feature of screwdrivers. work with self-tapping screws, screws and screws. They are not very suitable for drilling. Rechargeable models are convenient to use, but their power will be enough for short and simple work. The price of such a tool is three times cheaper than its decent quality network counterpart.

For small volumes of work, it is better to purchase a screwdriver. If the house is being renovated and you often need to make holes in different materials, along the way to work with fasteners, then a drill is better. This tool is supported by its low cost with normal characteristics. all that is needed for domestic purposes.

Tip: Any tool can be made better with special drills.

To decide what to buy. a drill or a screwdriver. answer the questions:

What kind of work are you going to do (you need a hammer drill or you can do something simpler). The more difficult the task, the more powerful the tool is needed: a screwdriver is suitable for screwing in, and for drilling in concrete. drill.

How often you plan to use the tool (often or from time to time). For minor, rare work with screws and holes, you can use a screwdriver, but for regular work you need a more powerful tool. Long-term work with hard materials under the power of an impact drill and universal drill-screwdriver.

What will be the working conditions (will there be access to power sources). Drills and screwdrivers are battery and mains. If the work on the site is without electricity, then a cordless tool is needed. It is important to remember that power drills and screwdrivers are much more powerful.

As you can see, the choice was not so difficult. the main thing is to ask the right questions and give clear answers to them! This video review will help you assess the situation even more.