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Hammer drills are a popular power tool that is commonly used for drilling into concrete, brick, and other masonry surfaces. However, many DIY enthusiasts often wonder if hammer drills can be used as a screwdriver as well. In short, the answer is yes, but there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind.
When compared to regular screwdrivers, hammer drills are more powerful and efficient. They can also generate a lot of torque, allowing them to drive screws into tough surfaces with ease. However, they do have certain limitations when it comes to driving screws!
Using a hammer drill as a screwdriver may seem like a convenient shortcut, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two tools before attempting to use them interchangeably. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of using a hammer drill as a screwdriver, including its limitations, tips and tricks, and other related information.
Contents
What is a Hammer Drill?
Before we delve into using a hammer drill as a screwdriver, let’s first understand what a hammer drill is. A hammer drill is a powerful tool that combines drilling and hammering action to create holes in hard materials like concrete and masonry. The tool works by rotating the drill bit while simultaneously hammering it into the surface to break up the material and create a hole.
The hammering action of a hammer drill is what sets it apart from a regular drill. This action allows the drill bit to penetrate hard surfaces with greater ease, which is why hammer drills are often used for heavy-duty construction and renovation projects.
What are the different kinds of hammer drills?
There are several types of hammer drills available on the market. The two most popular types are corded and cordless models. Corded hammer drills are more powerful, but they require an electrical outlet to operate and can be cumbersome to use in tight spaces. Cordless tools, on the other hand, provide more freedom and convenience but tend to have less power.
Standard impact drill
A standard impact drill is a corded or cordless hammer drill that uses an electric motor to drive the drill bit. These tools are ideal for drilling into soft materials like wood and plastic but can be used on harder surfaces as well, depending on the power of the tool.
Pneumatic drill
A pneumatic drill is a tool powered by air that can be held in the hand. It is used to drill holes or break up tough surfaces like rock, concrete, and roads. People often call it a jackhammer or air drill.
Rotary hammer drill
Rotary hammer drills are more powerful than standard impact drills and are designed for drilling into masonry and concrete. These tools use a combination of rotation and percussion to deliver maximum power, making them ideal for heavy-duty projects.
Using a Hammer Drill as a Screwdriver
As mentioned earlier, hammer drills can be used as a screwdriver, but it’s not always the best option. Hammer drills lack the torque control that a screwdriver offers, which can lead to overdriving the screw and stripping it.
However, if you only have a hammer drill on hand and need to use it as a screwdriver, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Use the Right Bit: Make sure to use a screwdriver bit that is compatible with your hammer drill. Most hammer drills have a chuck that can hold both drill bits and screwdriver bits.
- Adjust the Clutch: Most hammer drills have an adjustable clutch that allows you to control the amount of torque the tool applies. Adjust the clutch to a lower setting to avoid overdriving the screw.
- Use Low Speeds: Hammer drills have a high-speed setting for drilling, but for screwdriving, it’s best to use the low-speed setting to avoid overdriving the screw.
- Hold the Drill Steady: When screwdriving with a hammer drill, it’s important to keep the tool steady and avoid applying too much pressure. The hammering action of the drill can cause the bit to jump, which can strip the screw or damage the surface.
Limitations of Using a Hammer Drill as a Screwdriver
While using a hammer drill as a screwdriver is possible, it’s not always the best option. Here are some limitations to keep in mind:
- Lack of Torque Control: Hammer drills lack the torque control that a screwdriver offers, which can lead to overdriving the screw and stripping it.
- Heavy and Bulky: Hammer drills are heavy and bulky compared to screwdrivers, which can make them more difficult to use in tight spaces.
- Not Designed for Precision: Hammer drills are designed for heavy-duty drilling, not precision screwdriving. Using a hammer drill for precision work can lead to inaccuracies and mistakes.
Generally speaking, I would always recommend using an impact drill or screwdriver to drive screws. Hammer drills are great tools, but they’re better suited for drilling than screwdriving. If you need to drive a lot of screws, it’s best to invest in a quality impact driver or drill/driver. Both of these tools provide the torque control and precision needed for driving screws.
- 18-volt lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting power
- Brushless motor delivers efficient and durable performance
- Compact size for easy maneuverability in tight spaces
- 1/2 inch metal chuck for strong bit grip
- Adjustable clutch with 18 settings for precise drilling and driving
- LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling and maneuverability
- Powerful brushless motor delivers high performance and long runtime
- A 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck provides a secure grip on bits for improved accuracy
- Ergonomic handle with rubber over-mold reduces user fatigue and enhances comfort
- LED work light illuminates dark workspaces for increased visibility and precision.
- Cheapest of the bunch, and my personal favorite!
- Compact and ergonomic design for comfortable handling
- Variable 2-speed design (0-600 & 0-1,900 RPM) for a wide range of drilling and driving applications
- 4-pole motor delivers up to 480 in. lbs. of maximum torque
- All-metal gear construction for durability and long tool life
- Dual LED lights illuminate the work area for improved visibility
- Compatible with Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries with a fast charging time
FAQ
Q: Can you use a hammer drill as a screwdriver?
A: Yes, but it’s not always the best option. Hammer drills lack the torque control that a screwdriver offers, which can lead to overdriving the screw and stripping it.
Q: Can a hammer drill be used for woodworking?
A: While hammer drills are designed for drilling into hard materials like concrete and masonry, they can also be used for woodworking projects. Just make sure to use the right bit and adjust the clutch to a lower setting.
Q: What is the difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill?
A: The major difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill is that the hammer drill combines drilling and hammering action to create holes in hard materials.
Conclusion
Using a hammer drill as a screwdriver is possible, but it’s not always the best option. Hammer drills lack the torque control that a screwdriver offers and can be bulky and difficult to use in tight spaces. However, if you only have a hammer drill on hand and need to use it as a screwdriver, make sure to use the right bit, adjust the clutch to a lower setting, and hold the drill steady.
Ultimately, it’s best to use a screwdriver for precision work and reserve your hammer drill for heavy-duty applications like drilling into masonry and concrete.
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