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Power Drills
A power drill is an electric motor driven
drill that is held by hand. (The mounted
versions are called drill presses.) Most can be used as both drills and as
power screwdrivers/wrenches.
When choosing a drill, consider
the weight,
chuck size, chuck type, horsepower,
and power
source. Many of the newer drills
are battery
powered, which gives you more
mobility with
some trade off in horsepower
and weight.
The weight of the drill is important.
It
needs to be light enough to be
comfortable
but not too light so as to lack
inertia and
be more subject to jiggling around
while
you use it. We like your aluminum-cased
drill
because of the durability of
the case and
its weight.
Most power drills are 3/8" chucks. The
chuck is the vise that clamps the drill bit
in place. While most drill bits are 1/4"
diameter and smaller, a 3/8" allows
you to use the fatter drill bits without
a chuck size reducer. The keyless chuck available
on newer drills makes it easier to change
drill bits (you dont' have to keep looking
for that elusive chuck key), but they do
not grip the larger bits as well and you
may find some bit slippage if you are working
with a tough material.
Lastly, make sure the drill has
a variable
speed and a reverse setting,
and a built
in bubble level can be handy,
too. You will
thank yourself later for these
features. |
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