Can Impact Driver be Used as Drill? Pros and Cons Explained

If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, chances are you have encountered a situation where you need both a drill and an impact driver. But what if you only have an impact driver? Can you use it as a drill? The answer is yes! Using an impact driver as a drill is possible, and it can save you time and effort in some scenarios. However, there are certain things you need to know before you start drilling with an impact driver.
In this blog post, we will cover all the essential information you need to know when using an impact driver as a drill. So, keep reading to learn more!
Understanding the Difference between Impact Drivers and Drills
Many people often wonder if an impact driver can be used as a drill. While both tools are similar in appearance, they function quite differently. An impact driver is designed to deliver high torque with minimal effort, making it ideal for tasks such as driving screws into tough materials like hardwood or metal.
However, it’s not designed for drilling holes. A drill, on the other hand, is a versatile tool that is designed for both drilling holes and driving screws. It’s important to note that while an impact driver can be equipped with a drill bit, it’s not the best option for drilling because it lacks the necessary speed control.
So while the answer is technically yes, it’s not recommended to use an impact driver as a drill. To avoid causing damage to your project or your tool, it’s best to use the appropriate tool for the specific task at hand.
Impact Driver Functionality
When it comes to power tools, it’s essential to understand the differences between impact drivers and drills. While both tools are used for drilling, impact drivers are designed to work with impact-rated driver bits to provide a higher level of torque and power. They use a rotational hammering action that allows you to drive screws and bolts with ease, especially through tough materials.
On the other hand, drills are more suited for drilling holes through materials. While they’re capable of driving screws into wood, they don’t have the same torque as impact drivers, making them less effective for tougher tasks. In summary, if you’re looking for a tool to drive screws, bolts, or nuts quickly and efficiently, an impact driver is your best bet, whereas a drill is more suited for making holes.

Drill Functionality
If you’re new to the world of power tools, it can be easy to confuse drills with impact drivers. While both tools function similarly, they have distinct differences that set them apart. An impact driver is typically shorter and more compact than a drill, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
It’s also designed to deliver high levels of torque, which makes it ideal for driving screws and loosening stubborn bolts. A drill, on the other hand, is better suited for drilling holes in wood, metal, and other materials. It typically has a clutch that allows you to adjust the torque, making it easier to control the depth of the hole you’re drilling.
So, if you’re looking for a tool to help you with DIY projects around the house, a drill is probably your best bet. But if you’re a professional contractor or mechanic, an impact driver may be a better choice.
When to Use an Impact Driver as a Drill
An impact driver can be used as a drill in certain situations. Impact drivers are powerful tools designed to deliver high-torque output quickly and efficiently. While they are primarily used for tightening and loosening screws and bolts, they can also handle drilling tasks with ease.
However, impact drivers are not meant for drilling large or deep holes in tough materials like hardwoods or concrete. For smaller holes, such as pilot holes or light-duty drilling, an impact driver can be a suitable alternative to a drill. It’s essential to note that impact drivers do not have adjustable speed like drills, and they tend to be quite noisy.
Therefore, it’s crucial to assess the task at hand and determine if an impact driver is the right tool for the job. If you need to drill a large or deep hole or require adjustable speed, a drill would be the best option. However, for quick and light drilling tasks, an impact driver can be a convenient and efficient choice.
Benefits of Using an Impact Driver as a Drill
As a DIY enthusiast, I have found that there are times when using an impact driver as a drill is more beneficial. One of the biggest benefits is its ability to handle tougher jobs with ease. When using a regular drill, it can often struggle to penetrate tough materials such as hardwood or concrete.
However, an impact driver can provide the power needed to drill through these materials with ease. Another benefit of using an impact driver is its efficiency. Due to its rotational force and percussive action, it has a faster drilling speed, saving both time and effort for the user.
However, it is important to note that an impact driver is not a replacement for a drill in all situations. For simpler jobs such as drilling pilot holes or small screws, a regular drill can provide more precision and control. It is essential to know when to use an impact driver and when to use a drill to achieve the best results.
Limitations of Using an Impact Driver as a Drill
While an impact driver can sometimes be used as a drill, there are limitations to using it in this way. Firstly, impact drivers lack the variable speed control found in most drills, which makes them less suitable for tasks that require more precision, such as drilling holes in delicate materials like ceramic or glass. Secondly, while impact drivers can generate a lot of torque, they may not be the best choice for drilling large holes or for prolonged use, as they tend to be heavier and more powerful than most drills, making them harder to control for extended periods.
However, there are situations where an impact driver can come in handy for drilling tasks, such as when dealing with tougher materials like hardwood or when mounting heavy-duty metal fixtures to concrete surfaces. As with any tool, it’s important to use the right one for the job at hand and to understand its limitations. Using an impact driver as a drill can be a useful tool in your arsenal, but always consider the nature of the task at hand before selecting your tool.
Safety Tips when Using an Impact Driver as a Drill
Using an impact driver as a drill can be a real time saver when you need to drill through tough materials like metal or concrete. However, it’s important to know when to use an impact driver as a drill. Impact drivers are best for driving screws and fasteners, but they can also be used for drilling smaller holes in softer materials like wood.
If you’re drilling larger holes or working with harder materials like metal or concrete, it’s best to use a drill or hammer drill instead. When using an impact driver as a drill, it’s important to take safety precautions. Always wear eye protection to protect against flying debris and avoid loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in the tool.
Keep your hands and fingers away from the tip of the driver and never attempt to change out bits while the driver is still running. Finally, make sure the driver is securely fastened to the material you’re working on to prevent slippage or accidents. By following these tips, you can safely use your impact driver as a drill and complete your projects with ease.
How to Use an Impact Driver as a Drill
Yes, an impact driver can be used as a drill. To use an impact driver as a drill, you will need to have the right drill bit size and adapter. Impact drivers are designed to deliver bursts of power and torque, which is not always necessary when drilling holes, but they can certainly get the job done.
First, choose the right drill bit for your project, and then make sure it fits into the impact driver chuck. Once you have your drill bit in place, attach the adapter to the impact driver chuck and insert the drill bit. Turn on the impact driver and start drilling.
Be sure to use the right speed setting and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the bit or causing the fastener to strip. While an impact driver is not designed for precise drilling, it can be a versatile tool to have in your toolbox for both drilling and fastening tasks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
If you have an impact driver and want to use it as a drill, the good news is that it’s entirely possible! Although impact drivers are primarily designed for driving screws and bolts, you can still use them as a drill to make holes in wood or metal. Here are some step-by-step instructions on how to do it: Step 1: Choose the correct drill bit for the job you want to do. Make sure it’s the right size and suitable for the material type.
Step 2: Insert the drill bit into the chuck of the impact driver. You’ll need to hold the chuck with one hand and turn the drill clockwise with the other until it’s securely tightened. Step 3: Adjust the speed settings on the impact driver.
Unlike drills, impact drivers don’t have a wide range of speed settings. However, some models may have adjustable clutch settings that you can use to set the speed. Step 4: Press the impact driver firmly against the material you want to drill, making sure it’s level and straight.
Step 5: Pull the trigger to activate the impact driver. The driver will start drilling into the material, but remember that it will be noisier and vibrate more than a regular drill. Be prepared to tighten your grip on the tool and apply more pressure when needed.
Using an impact driver as a drill is a great way to save space in your toolbox and avoid the need for two separate tools. Plus, an impact driver’s high torque and power can make drilling through even tough materials a breeze. Just make sure to follow these simple steps, and you’ll be drilling with your impact driver like a pro in no time.
Tools and Equipment Needed
When it comes to using an impact driver as a drill, it’s essential to have the right tools and equipment. You’ll need an impact driver with a chuck adapter to be compatible with the drill bits. Additionally, having drill bits of different sizes and materials is crucial to ensure efficient and precise drilling.
It’s also worth noting that impact drivers are generally more powerful and faster than traditional drills, so it’s essential to handle it with care. Start by selecting the appropriate drill bit and attaching it to the chuck adapter. Then, adjust the speed and torque settings on your impact driver according to the material you’re drilling into.
Always start with a lower speed and torque if you’re unsure and adjust as required. Finally, hold the impact driver with both hands and position the drill bit perpendicular to the surface you’re drilling into. Once everything is in place, apply pressure and let the impact driver do the rest.
Using an impact driver as a drill can be a game-changer for both novice DIYers and professionals. With the right tools and adequate knowledge, you can tackle various tasks, from small home projects to larger commercial ones, with ease. So what are you waiting for? Grab your impact driver, chuck adapter, and drill bits, and let’s get drilling!
Conclusion: Impact Drivers as Drills Can Be a Great Tool Addition
In conclusion, technically speaking, yes, an impact driver can be used as a drill. However, it’s not just about whether it’s possible. Ultimately, it comes down to choosing the right tool for the job.
While an impact driver is great for driving screws and bolts with speed and power, a drill is designed for precision drilling and can handle a wider range of bit sizes and materials. So, while you might be able to make do with an impact driver in a pinch, if you want to do the job right, it’s best to bring in the drill and let it do what it does best.”
FAQs
What is a impact driver and how does it differ from a drill?
An impact driver is a power tool that delivers a high torque output with rotational and downward force. It differs from a drill in that it’s designed to drive fasteners and has a more compact size.
Can an impact driver be used as a drill?
While an impact driver does have some drilling capabilities, it’s not recommended to use as a primary drill. The lack of a clutch can lead to stripped screws or overdriven bits.
What types of bits can be used with an impact driver?
Hex shank bits are typically used with impact drivers since they have a quick-release chuck that’s compatible with the tool.
Can an impact driver replace a hammer drill?
No, impact drivers aren’t designed for masonry work like drilling into concrete or brick. A hammer drill is better suited for those tasks.
What are the advantages of using an impact driver over a drill?
An impact driver provides faster and more efficient driving of long screws and lag bolts, as well as being more compact and easier to handle in tight spaces.
How do you maintain an impact driver?
It’s important to keep the tool clean and lubricated, as well as replacing the brushes as needed. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance guidelines.
Can impact drivers be used with nut drivers or sockets?
Yes, there are impact-rated sockets and adapters that can be used with an impact driver to drive nuts and bolts.