subject: Choosing A Right Angle Drill [print this page] Choosing A Right Angle Drill Choosing A Right Angle Drill
An Unsung Heroe
The right angle drill is one of those tools that you may not use every day, but when you need it, nothing else will do! You can find a right angle drill for many applications, capacities and materials, even concrete. Most major tool companies offer a tool. There are some that have become the standard for many applications. The key to getting the right unit is considering your use, how often you will use it, how much power you will need, and how much you want to spend.(dewalt drill battery)
The Most Common Right Angle Drill
The most common right angle drill today is likely a cordless version. With the improvement in battery technology, many times a cordless right angle drill will provide more than enough power for most applications. One of my favorites is the Bosch PS50. This is a small compact 12 volt unit that is really nice for assembly type work. It's speed doesn't lend itself to many drilling type applications though. If you are needing something with a little more power with a standard chuck, check out the DeWalt and Makita line ups for some nice tools that may use the same batteries you already use. (makita tool battery)
More Power
If you are a contractor, you may need a corded right angle drill that will provide you with enough power to push through 2x material all day long. One vary popular right angle drill with electricians, plumbers and other tradesman is the Milwaukee right angle drill tools. This tool is based on their popular D-handle drill. You can even get one with an extension to reach up and drill floor joists with out a ladder. The extension pole is about 30" long and actually shoots off at less of a right angle which makes if very easy to drill into the joist.
Right Angle Drill For Concrete
If you find yourself needing a right angle drill for concrete, you are in luck! Both Metabo and Bosch make an adapter for some of their SDS hammers allowing you to hammer drill at a 90 degree angle. You will loose some power, but you will still get the job done. The most popular is the Bosch as it fits on their extremely popular Bulldog series of drills. This may not be a common application, but one Bosch rep told me of a time after a big earthquake, the right angle drill attachment was used extensively to secure buildings back to footings. The demand at that time created a world wide back order on this handy little unit. Yes, when you need a right angle drill, you need it!(panasonic power tool battery)
Right Angle Drill Attachments
You can also turn your standard drill into a right angle drill simply by adding a right angle drill attachment. If you don't need to use it very often, this may be the right choice for you. Often times the decision to use an attachment over an actual drill is based on cost. While I can understand you don't want to spend a lot on a tool you won't use that much. The attachments, just aren't as easy to use as the drill itself.
Getting The Right Price
If you have done any tool shopping at all, you will find that most online tool shops are really close on price. The power tool market is very competitive and the tools are sold on tight margins. You may be able to save a little by buying a factory refurbished tool. Many times a factory refurbished tool has seen little if any use. At any rate they are gone through and given a warranty. You may even consider buying a right angle drill off ebay. If you do, check out the seller well and make sure you know the cost of the tool plus the shipping. Many times you will not have a warranty with a tool on ebay.
As mentioned at the outset, the right angle drill is one of those unsung heroes of so many projects. As I have learned the hard way, the right tool makes all the difference. And some times, the right tool is the right angle drill.
If you would like more info on a right angle drill for any application visit Right Angle Drill Site.
