Can Impact Driver Be Used As Drill? Proven Guide

Yes, an impact driver can be used as a drill for many tasks, especially when driving screws. However, it’s not a perfect substitute for a traditional drill due to its primary function of delivering rotational impacts. Understanding the differences and when to use each tool is key to getting the job done right and safely.

Ever stared at your toolbox, wondering if that powerful impact driver sitting next to your drill could handle that drilling job? It’s a common question among DIYers and even seasoned pros. You’ve got a screw to drive, a pilot hole to make, and maybe you’re just trying to save a trip to the garage. The thought of using one tool for multiple jobs is tempting, especially when time is tight or you’re working on a project away from your main workshop. But can you really swap them out? It’s a question that pops up frequently, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on the task, the materials, and what you’re trying to achieve. Don’t worry, though – by the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how impact drivers and drills differ, and when your impact driver can step in as a drill, and when it’s best to stick to the traditional drill. Let’s dive in and clear up the confusion!

Impact Driver vs. Drill: Understanding the Core Differences

It’s easy to get confused between an impact driver and a drill, especially since they often look quite similar and both use bits to fasten or make holes. However, their internal mechanisms and primary functions are distinct, which dictates how and where they excel. Think of them as cousins, related but with very different jobs in the tool family.

The fundamental difference lies in how they deliver power. A standard drill, whether it’s a corded or cordless drill, primarily delivers continuous rotational force. This is perfect for drilling holes smoothly and driving screws with consistent torque. On the other hand, an impact driver is designed for one thing: driving screws, especially long or large ones, into tough materials. It achieves this by combining rotational force with rapid, short bursts of hammering action, delivered perpendicularly to the shaft of the bit. This is what “impact” refers to.

How an Impact Driver Works

An impact driver’s mechanism is quite ingenious. When you pull the trigger, a rotating mass (often called an anvil) is spun by the motor. When resistance is met, this anvil engages with a hammer, forcing it forward. This hammer then strikes an output shaft, delivering a powerful, percussive blow. Crucially, this impact force is delivered along the axis of the bit, not against your wrist. This is why impact drivers are so effective at driving fasteners into dense materials without stripping the screw head or fatiguing your arm.

The key components are:

• Motor: Provides the initial rotational power.
• Anvil/Hammer Mechanism: This is the heart of the impact driver, generating the percussive blows.
• Output Shaft: Connects to the chuck and transmits the rotational and impact force.
• Chuck: Typically a 1/4-inch hex collet, designed for quick bit changes and to withstand the rotational stress.

How a Drill Works

A standard drill, whether it’s a drill/driver or a hammer drill, operates differently. A drill/driver delivers consistent torque through its motor and gearbox. You can often adjust the clutch settings to control the amount of torque applied, preventing over-tightening or stripping screws. A hammer drill adds a secondary mechanism that provides rotational impacts (like a jackhammer, but much gentler) along the axis of the bit. This is specifically for drilling into masonry and concrete, where the percussive action helps break up the material.

The key components of a drill include:

• Motor: Powers the rotation.
• Gearbox: Often provides multiple speed settings for different tasks.
• Clutch: Allows you to set a torque limit to protect fasteners and materials.
• Chuck: Usually a keyed or keyless chuck that can accept a wider range of bit shanks, including round ones.
• Hammer Mechanism (in hammer drills): Provides percussive action for masonry.

Torque and Speed: A Key Distinction

When we talk about using an impact driver as a drill, the differences in torque delivery and speed become very important. Impact drivers generally offer higher torque than standard drills, especially in short bursts. This is due to the hammering action that amplifies the rotational force. However, this force is delivered in pulses. Drills, on the other hand, offer more consistent, controllable torque over longer periods. Speed also varies; drills often have higher RPMs (revolutions per minute) for efficient drilling, while impact drivers might have slightly lower RPMs but much higher IPMs (impacts per minute).

Here’s a quick comparison:

Can You Use an Impact Driver as a Drill? The Proven Answer

So, to answer the main question directly: Yes, an impact driver can be used as a drill for certain drilling applications, but with significant caveats. It’s not a direct replacement for a drill/driver for all tasks, especially when precision or delicate materials are involved. The key is understanding when its unique capabilities are beneficial and when they might cause problems.

The primary reason an impact driver works for drilling is that it still rotates like a drill. The added impact feature is what differentiates it. For drilling into wood, plastic, or even thin metal, an impact driver can be effective, especially if you’re using the correct bits. However, the impact mechanism can sometimes cause issues:

• Material Damage: The percussive blows can chip or splinter softer materials like thin wood or drywall if not used carefully.
• Bit Slippage: The hammering action can cause drill bits to slip out of the chuck, especially if the bit isn’t properly seated or if the impact is too aggressive for the material.
• Lack of Precision: For very precise holes or when drilling into surfaces that are easily damaged, the intermittent power delivery might not be ideal.

When Using an Impact Driver as a Drill Works Best

Impact drivers shine when you need to drill holes in tougher materials or when you’re pre-drilling for large fasteners. Think of situations like:

• Drilling pilot holes in dense wood: The impact helps the bit power through without bogging down.
• Drilling into metal: With the right cutting fluid and bits, the impact can help clear chips and maintain drilling momentum.
• Drilling larger holes: For larger diameter holes, the extra power from the impacts can be beneficial.
• When speed is a priority: For many tasks, an impact driver can drill holes faster than a standard drill.

When to Avoid Using an Impact Driver for Drilling

There are definitely times when you should reach for your standard drill instead:

• Drilling into delicate materials: Think thin plastic, thin sheet metal, or finished wood where splintering or surface damage is a concern.
• When precise hole placement or diameter is critical: The impact action can sometimes cause the bit to wander slightly.
• Drilling into masonry or concrete: While impact drivers deliver impacts, they are not designed for the continuous, high-frequency hammering required for drilling into concrete. For that, you need a hammer drill or a rotary hammer.
• Using standard twist drill bits: Standard twist bits are designed for continuous rotation. While they can be used in an impact driver, they aren’t optimized for the impact action and may wear out faster or perform less efficiently. Specialized “impact-rated” drill bits are recommended.

How to Safely and Effectively Use an Impact Driver for Drilling

If you’ve decided to use your impact driver for a drilling task, follow these steps to ensure safety and good results. Proper technique is crucial when using tools outside their primary design parameters.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select the Right Bit: This is perhaps the most critical step. Use drill bits specifically designed for impact drivers. These bits have a stronger shank and are engineered to withstand the percussive forces. Standard twist bits can work in a pinch but are more likely to break or wear out quickly. For wood, spade bits or Forstner bits designed for impact use are available. For metal, use cobalt or titanium-coated bits with a robust design.
2. Insert the Bit Securely: Impact drivers typically have a 1/4-inch hex collet. Ensure the bit is fully inserted into the collet and that the collar clicks to secure it. A poorly seated bit is a recipe for disaster, leading to wobbling, inaccurate holes, and potential bit breakage.
3. Choose the Correct Speed Setting: Most impact drivers have variable speed settings. For drilling, you’ll typically want to use a higher speed setting than you would for driving screws. However, start at a lower speed and gradually increase it as needed. Some impact drivers have specific “drilling modes” that adjust speed and impact for better control.
4. Set Your Torque (If Applicable): While impact drivers don’t have a clutch like drills, some models have adjustable impact settings or torque limiters. If yours does, set it to a lower impact level for drilling into softer materials or when you need more control.
5. Apply Steady Pressure: Hold the impact driver firmly with both hands, if possible. Apply steady, even pressure directly into the material you’re drilling. Let the tool do the work; don’t force it.
6. Control the Trigger: Start the drill slowly by squeezing the trigger gently. Once the bit is engaged with the material, you can increase speed. If you notice the bit is skipping or the material is splintering, ease off the trigger slightly or reduce the speed.
7. Clear Debris: Periodically pull the bit out of the hole to clear away wood dust or metal shavings. This prevents the hole from becoming clogged and allows the bit to cut more efficiently.
8. Cooling (for Metal): If drilling into metal, use a cutting fluid or oil to keep the bit cool. Overheating can dull the bit and make drilling much harder.

Essential Accessories

To make the most of your impact driver as a drill, consider these accessories:

• Impact-Rated Drill Bits: As mentioned, these are crucial. Look for bits specifically labeled “impact rated” or “for impact drivers.”
• Hex-Shank Drill Bits: Ensure the drill bits you use have a 1/4-inch hex shank to fit the impact driver’s collet.
• Screw Driving Bits: While not directly for drilling, having a good set of impact-rated screwdriver bits is essential for when you switch back to the primary function of your impact driver.
• Drill Bit Extension: For reaching tight spots, a hex shank extension can be very useful.

Impact Driver vs. Drill: When to Choose Which

Making the right tool choice can save you time, effort, and frustration. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Choose an Impact Driver When:

• Driving long screws or lag bolts into dense materials.
• Working with large fasteners that require significant torque.
• Quickly driving many screws.
• Loosening stubborn bolts or nuts (often with socket adapters).
• Drilling pilot holes in hardwood or metal where power is needed.
• You need a compact and powerful tool for general fastening and occasional drilling.

Choose a Drill/Driver When:

• Drilling precise holes in wood, plastic, or metal.
• Working with delicate materials where over-driving or splintering is a risk.
• You need a wide range of torque control via a clutch for delicate tasks.
• Drilling into masonry or concrete (you need a hammer drill or rotary hammer for this).
• Using standard twist drill bits for general-purpose drilling.
• You need a tool that can also mix paint or operate attachments that require consistent rotation.

The Hammer Drill Advantage

It’s worth noting the role of a hammer drill here. A hammer drill is a specialized type of drill designed for drilling into hard materials like brick, stone, and concrete. It combines rotation with a hammering action that is much more powerful and continuous than what an impact driver provides. The impacts in a hammer drill are created by two toothed rings that ratched against each other, pushing the chuck forward and back. If your primary need is drilling into masonry, a hammer drill is far superior to an impact driver and even a standard drill.

For more information on the different types of drills and their applications, the U.S. Department of Energy offers valuable insights into selecting the right power tools for your needs.

U.S. Department of Energy – Power Tools

Furthermore, understanding the mechanics of drilling can help you appreciate the differences. Resources from engineering and manufacturing sites can provide deeper technical understanding.

Machinery Lubrication – How Impact Wrenches Work (While this is about impact wrenches, the core impact mechanism principles are similar to impact drivers)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any drill bit with an impact driver?

No, it’s highly recommended to use drill bits specifically designed for impact drivers. These bits have a 1/4-inch hex shank and are built to withstand the percussive forces. Standard twist drill bits with round shanks can be used if you have a hex adapter, but they are not optimized for the impact action and may break or wear out faster. Always ensure the bit is securely seated in the chuck.

Will an impact driver damage my material when drilling?

It can, especially if you’re not careful. The impact action can cause splintering in wood or chipping in softer materials. It’s best to start at a lower speed, use steady pressure, and consider using bits designed for impact drivers, which can sometimes offer a smoother drilling experience. Always test on a scrap piece of material first if you’re unsure.

Is an impact driver better than a drill for driving screws?

For driving screws, especially long or large ones into tough materials, an impact driver is generally better due to its high torque and impact action, which prevents stripping and makes the job faster. However, for delicate tasks or when precise torque control is needed (like assembling furniture or driving screws into soft wood), a drill/driver with an adjustable clutch is often preferred.

Can I drill holes in concrete with an impact driver?

No, an impact driver is not suitable for drilling into concrete or masonry. While it delivers impacts, it doesn’t provide the continuous, high-frequency hammering action required for these hard materials. For concrete, you need a hammer drill or, for more demanding tasks, a rotary hammer.

What’s the difference between an impact driver and a hammer drill?

An impact driver delivers rotational impacts along the axis of the bit, primarily for driving fasteners into tough materials. A hammer drill combines rotation with a hammering action that is more suited for drilling into masonry like brick or concrete. The mechanism and application are different: impact drivers are for fastening, hammer drills are for drilling into hard surfaces.

How do I control the power of an impact driver when drilling?

You can control the power by using the variable speed trigger – squeeze it gently for slower speeds and more control. Many impact drivers also have speed settings (e.g., 1, 2, 3) that you can select before starting. If your impact driver has adjustable