Yes, a hammer drill can absolutely be used as a normal drill! With its versatile functionality, a hammer drill is a powerful tool that can handle both standard drilling tasks and tougher jobs like drilling into concrete or masonry. You just need to know how to switch it to the right mode.

Can a Hammer Drill Be Used as a Normal Drill? Absolutely!

Ever looked at your hammer drill and wondered if it’s just for concrete, or if it can tackle your everyday drilling needs? It’s a common question, especially when you’re faced with hanging a shelf or assembling furniture. You might feel a little intimidated by its powerful hammer action, thinking it’s too much for simpler tasks. But here’s the good news: your hammer drill is actually a fantastic multi-tasker! It’s designed to be just as effective for regular drilling as it is for tougher materials. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to use your hammer drill for all your regular drilling jobs, ensuring you get great results every time. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your tool!

Understanding Your Hammer Drill: More Than Just a Hammer

A hammer drill is a versatile power tool that combines the functions of a standard drill with a percussion mechanism. This means it can rotate a drill bit like a regular drill, but it can also deliver rapid, percussive blows along the axis of the drill bit when needed. This percussive action is what makes it ideal for drilling into hard materials like concrete, brick, and stone. However, the beauty of a hammer drill lies in its adaptability. Most hammer drills have a mode selector switch that allows you to disable the hammer function, effectively turning it into a standard drill.

For many DIYers and professionals, having a tool that can perform multiple functions saves time, money, and workshop space. Instead of owning a separate standard drill and a hammer drill, you can have one tool that does it all. This is particularly useful for home renovations or automotive work where you might encounter a variety of materials in a single project.

The Key to Versatility: The Mode Selector Switch

The magic behind using a hammer drill as a normal drill lies in its mode selector switch. This small, often rotating collar or button, usually located near the front of the drill body or on the gear housing, allows you to choose between different operating modes. The most common modes are:

• Drilling Mode (Standard Drill Function): This is the mode you’ll use for most common tasks like drilling into wood, metal, or plastic. In this mode, the hammer mechanism is disengaged, and the drill operates purely on rotation.
• Hammer Drilling Mode (Percussion Function): This mode engages the hammer mechanism, providing those rapid, forward blows that help the drill bit penetrate hard materials like concrete or masonry.

Some advanced hammer drills might also feature a “screw driving” or “clutch” mode, which limits the torque to prevent over-tightening or stripping screws. Always consult your drill’s manual to understand the specific modes and their functions.

How to Switch Your Hammer Drill to Normal Drilling Mode

Switching your hammer drill to its normal drilling mode is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Identify the Mode Selector: Locate the mode selector switch on your hammer drill. It’s often a rotating ring or a sliding button.
2. Disengage the Hammer Function: Look for symbols indicating the modes. Typically, a drill bit symbol represents normal drilling, and a hammer with lines or a drill bit with lines represents hammer drilling. Rotate the selector to the drill bit symbol (without the lines). If there’s a clutch setting, ensure it’s set to a drilling mode, not a screw-driving mode if you’re drilling holes.
3. Select the Correct Speed Setting (if applicable): Many hammer drills have a two-speed gearbox. For normal drilling into softer materials like wood, a lower speed is often better for control. For harder materials or metal, a higher speed might be more effective. Refer to your drill’s manual for recommended speed settings for different applications.
4. Insert the Appropriate Drill Bit: Choose a drill bit suitable for the material you are drilling into. For wood, use a wood bit. For metal, use a metal bit. For masonry, you’ll need a masonry bit, but remember you’ll switch to hammer mode for that.
5. Secure the Drill Bit: Ensure the drill bit is firmly secured in the chuck. If you have a keyed chuck, use the chuck key. For keyless chucks, tighten it by hand as much as possible.
6. Begin Drilling: Position the tip of the drill bit on your marked spot. Apply steady, even pressure and pull the trigger to start the drill. Let the drill bit do the work.

When to Use Normal Drill Mode vs. Hammer Drill Mode

Understanding when to use each mode is crucial for efficiency and tool longevity. Here’s a quick breakdown:

For a comprehensive guide on drill bit types and their uses, resources like Popular Mechanics’ drill bit guide offer excellent insights.

Choosing the Right Drill Bit for Normal Drilling

Even when using your hammer drill in normal mode, the drill bit is your primary interface with the material. Using the wrong bit can lead to poor results, damaged materials, or broken bits. Here are some common types of drill bits used for normal drilling:

Common Drill Bit Types for Standard Drilling:

• Twist Drill Bits: The most common type, suitable for wood, metal, and plastics. They come in various materials like High-Speed Steel (HSS) for general use, Cobalt for harder metals, and Titanium-coated for increased durability.
• Brad-Point Bits: Specifically designed for wood, these bits have a sharp point in the center that prevents “walking” or wandering when you start a hole, ensuring accuracy.
• Spade Bits (Paddle Bits): Flat bits with a pointed tip, ideal for drilling larger diameter holes quickly in wood.
• Forstner Bits: Produce clean, flat-bottomed holes in wood, often used for cabinetry and woodworking projects where precision is key.
• Step Bits: Cone-shaped bits with multiple “steps” that can drill holes of various sizes in thin materials like sheet metal or plastic.

For a deeper dive into selecting the right drill bit, the Wood Magazine website offers fantastic advice tailored for woodworking, which is highly applicable to general drilling.

Corded vs. Cordless Hammer Drills: Which is Best for Normal Use?

Both corded and cordless hammer drills can be used for normal drilling, but they offer different advantages:

For occasional or light DIY tasks where portability isn’t a major concern, a corded hammer drill can be a cost-effective choice that performs admirably in normal drill mode. However, for frequent use or working in various locations, a cordless hammer drill is often the preferred option due to its unmatched convenience.

Tips for Effective Normal Drilling with Your Hammer Drill

To ensure you get the best results when using your hammer drill as a standard drill, keep these tips in mind:

• Start Slow: Begin with a lower trigger speed to control the drill bit as it starts to cut into the material. This prevents the bit from “walking” and ensures a clean entry point.
• Apply Steady Pressure: Maintain consistent, firm pressure on the drill. Avoid excessive force, which can bind the bit or damage the material. Let the drill do the work.
• Keep the Drill Straight: Ensure the drill is perpendicular to the surface you’re drilling into. Angling the drill can cause the bit to break or create an oversized, irregular hole.
• Use the Right Speed: Generally, softer materials like wood benefit from lower speeds for better control and a cleaner finish. Harder materials like metal may require higher speeds, but always check your drill bit manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Clear Debris: For deeper holes, periodically pull the drill bit out slightly while it’s still spinning slowly to clear sawdust or metal shavings. This prevents the hole from becoming clogged and makes drilling easier.
• Cool Metal Bits: When drilling metal, especially harder alloys, use a cutting fluid or oil to keep the drill bit cool. This extends the life of the bit and makes drilling smoother.
• Engage the Clutch (if applicable): If you’re driving screws, make sure the clutch is set correctly. Start with a lower torque setting and increase it as needed until the screw is flush without damaging the material or the screw head.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right tool, mistakes can happen. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid when using your hammer drill for standard drilling:

• Leaving the Hammer Mode Engaged: This is the most frequent error. If you forget to switch off the hammer function when drilling into wood or metal, you risk damaging the material, the drill bit, and potentially the drill’s hammer mechanism.
• Using the Wrong Drill Bit: Using a masonry bit for wood will create a rough, oversized hole. Conversely, using a wood bit on concrete will quickly dull and destroy it.
• Applying Too Much Force: Forcing the drill bit can cause it to bind, snap, or overheat. Let the rotation and the sharpness of the bit do the work.
• Not Securing the Chuck: A loose drill bit can wobble, leading to inaccurate holes and potentially dangerous situations if it comes flying out.
• Drilling at an Angle: This is a common issue that results in crooked holes and can stress the drill bit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a hammer drill to drive screws?

Yes, you can use a hammer drill to drive screws, but it’s crucial to switch it to normal drill mode and engage the clutch. The hammer action is not designed for screws and can strip the screw head or damage the material. The clutch helps regulate the torque, preventing over-tightening.

What is the difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill?

A regular drill only rotates. A hammer drill has an additional mechanism that delivers percussive blows along the axis of the drill bit, making it suitable for drilling into hard materials like concrete and masonry. However, a hammer drill can be switched to operate like a regular drill by disengaging the hammer function.

Will using a hammer drill in normal mode wear it out faster?

No, using a hammer drill in its normal drilling mode is perfectly fine and will not wear it out faster than a standard drill. The tool is designed to operate in both modes. Prolonged use of the hammer function on materials that don’t require it might cause unnecessary wear on the hammer mechanism, but normal drilling is what it’s built for.

Do I need special drill bits for using a hammer drill in normal mode?

No, you do not need special drill bits for using a hammer drill in normal mode. You should use the same type of drill bits appropriate for the material you are drilling, just as you would with a standard drill. For example, use wood bits for wood, metal bits for metal, and masonry bits for masonry (when in hammer mode).

Can a hammer drill be used as a regular drill for woodworking?

Absolutely! In fact, many woodworkers prefer using hammer drills in normal mode for woodworking tasks. The ability to switch to a lower speed setting on many hammer drills can provide excellent control for drilling into wood, and the weight and balance can be very comfortable for extended use.

What is the symbol for normal drilling mode on a hammer drill?

The symbol for normal drilling mode is typically a stylized image of a drill bit, often without any additional lines or symbols indicating percussion. Conversely, hammer drill mode is usually represented by a drill bit with lines radiating from it or a symbol of a hammer next to a drill bit.

Conclusion: Your Hammer Drill, Your Versatile Workhorse

As you can see, your hammer drill is far more than just a tool for demolition or tough masonry work. By understanding the mode selector and using the correct drill bits and techniques, you can confidently employ your hammer drill as a high-performance standard drill for all your everyday DIY projects. Whether you’re assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or working on your car, your hammer drill is ready to assist. So go ahead, switch to that normal drill mode, and tackle those tasks with ease and precision. Happy drilling!