Drill and driver basics

A cordless drill/driver is the single most useful tool a beginner can own. It drills holes and drives screws, and a few settings make the difference between clean work and stripped screws.

Know the settings

• Clutch (the numbered ring): low numbers stop turning sooner, so small screws don't strip; the drill symbol means no clutch
• Speed switch: 1 for driving screws, 2 for drilling holes
• Forward and reverse switch above the trigger

Drilling a clean hole

1. Mark the spot and press a small dent with a nail or awl so the bit doesn't wander
2. Use the right bit: twist bits for wood and metal, masonry bits for brick and concrete
3. Hold the drill straight, start slowly, then speed up
4. Back the bit out every so often to clear dust in deep holes

Driving screws

1. Match the driver bit to the screw head (Phillips #2 fits most household screws)
2. Drill a pilot hole in hardwood or near the end of a board to stop splitting
3. Push firmly in line with the screw and use low speed
4. Start with a low clutch setting and turn it up until the screw sits flush

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