The Handyguys discuss and test drills

In this episode, the Handyguys discuss the basic variety of drills. They also answer a couple questions about the the best drill to use for difficult jobs like putting large holes in joists and drilling holes in concrete.

There is an amazing variety of drills on the market today so it is difficult to know where to begin — cordless, corded, or lithium ion — contractor grade or low-end. Hopefully you can build a solid, standardized drill arsenal by listening to this podcast.

In response to these questions, the Handyguys test out a table full of drills in the garage. For their tool challenge, they see which of the seven different drills can handle putting a large auger bit through a piece of tough oak. In addition, they set a cordless hammer drill against a corded hammer drill in a concrete hole contest.

Results of the 3/4″ auger bit through 5/4 Red Oak:

• Milwaukee Magnum 0234 (5.5a, 1/2″ 850RPM) — 3.59 seconds
• Makita HP1621FK (5.7a 5/8″ 0-2800 RPM) — 2.69 seconds
• Milwaukee #1630 (300RPM) — 5.20 seconds
• Craftsman 315.11441 (2.2a, 3/8″, 1200RPM) — Not enough power
• Bosch LIon PS20 (10.8v cordless) — Not enough power
• Porter Cable 9966 (12v cordless, 1/2″ L-425RPM, H-1300RPM) — Not enough power
• Makita LXT BHP451 (18v LIon cordless, L-300RPM) — 7.65 seconds

Corded vs cordless hammer drill test in concrete (2″ deep hole with 3/16″ tapcon):

• Makita LXT BHP451 (18v LIon cordless, L-300RPM) — 12.87 seconds
• Makita HP1621FK (5.7a 1/2″ 0-2800 RPM) — 6.50 seconds