Hammer Drill: Regular Drill? Amazing Results!

Yes, a hammer drill can absolutely be used as a regular drill! While it has a special hammering function for tougher materials like concrete and brick, it works just like a standard drill for everyday tasks in wood, metal, and plastic. You simply turn off the hammer function for normal drilling, making it a versatile tool for any DIYer.

Ever stared at a drill, wondering if it can handle that tough concrete wall you need to hang shelves on, or if you even need a different tool altogether? It’s a common question, especially when you’re faced with a project that goes beyond just drilling into wood. You might have a standard drill that’s served you well for years, but now you’re eyeing something a bit more robust, like a hammer drill. The confusion often lies in the name itself – does that “hammer” action mean it’s only for demolition, or can it still be your go-to for everyday tasks? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there, trying to figure out which tool is best for the job. This guide will clear up the mystery and show you how a hammer drill can be your secret weapon for a wider range of projects, delivering amazing results without needing a whole new toolbox.

Understanding Your Drill’s Capabilities

Before we dive into the specifics of hammer drills, let’s ensure we’re all on the same page about what a drill actually does. At its core, a drill is a power tool designed to create holes or drive screws. It achieves this through a rotating chuck that holds a drill bit or a driver bit. The motor powers this rotation, and the speed and torque of the drill determine its effectiveness and the types of materials it can handle.

Standard drills, often called “drill drivers,” are fantastic for most common DIY tasks. Think about assembling furniture, putting up a bookshelf, or drilling pilot holes in wood. They offer variable speed settings, allowing you to control how quickly the bit spins, and a clutch that prevents over-tightening screws, which is crucial for preventing stripped heads or damaged materials. These are your everyday workhorses.

Now, where does the hammer drill fit into this picture? This is where the magic happens for those tougher jobs. A hammer drill adds a unique feature: a percussive action. When the hammer function is engaged, the drill bit not only rotates but also pulses forward and backward rapidly. This pounding action, combined with the rotation, helps to break up harder materials like masonry, concrete, and brick, making it much easier to drill into them.

The key takeaway here is the versatility. A hammer drill isn’t just for hammering; it’s a dual-action tool. This means you can switch between its two modes, making it adaptable to a much wider array of projects than a standard drill driver.

Can a Hammer Drill Be Used as a Regular Drill? The Simple Answer

Let’s get straight to the point: yes, a hammer drill can absolutely be used as a regular drill. This is thanks to a simple but crucial feature found on almost all hammer drills: a mode selector switch. This switch allows you to turn the hammer action on or off. When the hammer function is turned off, a hammer drill operates exactly like a standard drill driver.

This means you can use it for all the tasks you’d typically entrust to your regular drill, such as:

• Drilling holes in wood
• Drilling holes in metal
• Driving screws into various materials
• Using it with hole saws for larger diameter holes in softer materials

The beauty of this is that you don’t need two separate tools for most common household and workshop tasks. If you’re building a deck, assembling furniture, or even just hanging a picture frame, your hammer drill, with its hammer function switched off, will perform beautifully. It’s like having a standard drill driver with an added superpower for those more challenging moments.

How to Use a Hammer Drill as a Regular Drill

Using a hammer drill for regular drilling tasks is incredibly straightforward. The most important step is ensuring you’ve selected the correct mode. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Identify the Mode Selector: Look for a ring or switch, usually located near the chuck or on the main body of the drill. This selector typically has two symbols: one that looks like a plain drill bit (or a circle) for standard drilling, and another that resembles a drill bit with lines radiating from the head (like a small hammer icon) for hammer drilling.
2. Select Standard Drill Mode: Rotate the selector to the symbol that indicates standard drilling (the plain drill bit or circle). This disengages the percussive mechanism.
3. Insert the Appropriate Bit: Choose the correct drill bit for your material (wood bit, metal bit, etc.) or a screwdriver bit if you’re driving screws. Secure it firmly in the chuck.
4. Set the Speed and Clutch (if applicable): Most hammer drills have variable speed settings. Start with a lower speed for precise control, especially when starting a hole or driving a screw. If your drill has a clutch, set it to a lower number for driving screws to prevent stripping.
5. Drill or Drive: Now you can use your hammer drill just like any other drill driver. Apply steady pressure and let the tool do the work.

It’s that simple! By ensuring the hammer function is OFF, you’re effectively using a hammer drill as a high-quality drill driver. This flexibility is what makes hammer drills such a popular choice for both DIYers and professionals.

When to Switch to Hammer Mode

So, when do you need that hammer action? The hammer function is specifically designed for drilling into hard, brittle materials where a standard drill would struggle or overheat. This primarily includes:

• Concrete: Perfect for drilling anchor holes for mounting fixtures, shelves, or brackets.
• Brick: Essential for creating holes in brick walls for anything from garden features to structural supports.
• Stone: Can be used for drilling into natural stone, though specialized masonry bits are always recommended.
• Masonry: A general term covering materials like cinder blocks and mortar joints.

When drilling into these materials, you’ll want to:

1. Select Hammer Mode: Ensure the hammer icon is selected on your mode selector.
2. Use a Masonry Bit: These bits have a hardened carbide tip designed to withstand the impact and abrasion of masonry.
3. Maintain Steady Pressure: Let the drill’s hammering action do the work. Avoid excessive force, which can damage the bit or the drill.
4. Clear Debris: Periodically pull the drill bit out of the hole while it’s still spinning slowly to clear out dust and debris, which helps prevent overheating and makes drilling more efficient.

The combination of rotation and rapid hammering action pulverizes the material, allowing the bit to advance smoothly where a regular drill would just spin or bind.

Hammer Drill vs. Standard Drill: A Quick Comparison

To further illustrate the capabilities, let’s look at how hammer drills and standard drills stack up for different tasks. This table highlights their strengths:

As you can see, a hammer drill with the hammer function off is functionally identical to a standard drill driver. The added weight or size difference is usually minimal and doesn’t significantly impact its performance for everyday tasks.

Benefits of Using a Hammer Drill for Regular Tasks

Why choose a hammer drill even if you don’t plan on drilling concrete every day? There are several advantages:

• Unmatched Versatility: As we’ve stressed, this is the biggest benefit. One tool handles the vast majority of your drilling and driving needs. This saves you money and storage space.
• Increased Power and Torque: Hammer drills often come with more powerful motors than basic drill drivers. This means they can handle tougher materials (even in standard mode) and drive larger screws with greater ease.
• Durability: Many hammer drills are built with more robust components to withstand the rigors of hammer drilling. This often translates to a longer lifespan and greater durability for all your drilling tasks.
• Future-Proofing: If you’re a DIYer who likes to take on new projects, having a hammer drill means you’re always prepared for that unexpected job that requires drilling into masonry. You won’t have to run out and buy another tool.
• Better Performance in Challenging Materials: Even when drilling into dense hardwoods or metal, the extra power and robust construction of many hammer drills can provide a smoother, more efficient experience.

For instance, if you’re working with very hard woods like oak or maple, a hammer drill’s motor might provide the consistent torque needed without bogging down, something a less powerful standard drill might struggle with. Similarly, when driving long screws into tougher lumber, the drill’s power reserve can be a real advantage.

Potential Downsides (and how to mitigate them)

While hammer drills are incredibly versatile, there are a few minor considerations when using them as a regular drill:

• Slightly Heavier/Bulkier: The internal hammer mechanism adds a bit of weight and size compared to some ultra-compact standard drills. However, modern designs have minimized this difference significantly. For most users, this is a negligible trade-off for the added functionality.
• Cost: Hammer drills can sometimes be slightly more expensive than basic drill drivers. However, considering they perform the function of two tools, they often offer better value overall.
• Accidental Hammer Engagement: The main risk is accidentally leaving the hammer function engaged when you don’t need it. This can cause bits to wear out faster, make imprecise holes, and potentially damage softer materials.

The solution to the accidental engagement issue is simple: always double-check your mode selector before you start drilling. Make it a habit to glance at it every time you pick up the tool. For the weight and cost, weigh these against the convenience and the need for a single, capable tool.

When a Dedicated Standard Drill Might Still Be Preferred

While a hammer drill is exceptionally versatile, there are niche situations where a dedicated standard drill driver might be preferred, particularly for professionals or very serious hobbyists:

• Ultra-Lightweight & Compact Needs: If your work exclusively involves delicate tasks in tight spaces where every ounce and inch counts, a specialized subcompact drill driver might be more comfortable.
• Extremely Fine Woodworking/Detail Work: For highly precise, intricate work where absolute control over rotation speed and torque is paramount, and there’s zero chance of needing hammer action, a dedicated drill driver might offer a slightly more refined feel.
• Budget Constraints for Basic Tasks Only: If you only ever plan to drill small holes in drywall or assemble flat-pack furniture, and never foresee needing to drill into masonry, a basic drill driver is a more budget-friendly option.

However, for the vast majority of homeowners, DIYers, and even many professionals, the hammer drill offers the best of both worlds, making it the go-to choice.

Choosing the Right Hammer Drill

If you’re in the market for a hammer drill that can double as your primary drill driver, consider these factors:

• Corded vs. Cordless: Cordless drills offer freedom of movement, while corded drills provide continuous power. For versatility, cordless is usually preferred.
• Voltage (for Cordless): Higher voltage (e.g., 18V or 20V) generally means more power and longer battery life.
• Chuck Type: Keyless chucks are convenient for quick bit changes. Look for a durable metal chuck.
• Variable Speed and Clutch: Essential for control in both standard and hammer drilling modes.
• Ergonomics and Weight: Choose a drill that feels comfortable in your hand for extended use.
• Brand Reputation and Reviews: Opt for reputable brands known for durability and performance. Reading user reviews can provide valuable insights.

For example, brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Milwaukee are well-regarded for their hammer drills, offering a range of models to suit different needs and budgets. Checking out resources like Consumer Reports or industry-specific tool review sites can help you narrow down your choices. For instance, sites like ProToolReviews.com often feature in-depth comparisons and tests of various power tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular drill bit in a hammer drill?

Yes, you can use standard drill bits (for wood, metal, etc.) in a hammer drill as long as the hammer function is switched OFF. If you intend to use the hammer function, you must use a masonry bit, as standard bits are not designed for the percussive action and will likely break.

Will using a hammer drill for regular tasks wear it out faster?

No, not if you use it correctly. When the hammer function is disengaged, a hammer drill operates exactly like a standard drill. In fact, because hammer drills are often built with more robust components to handle the hammer action, they can sometimes be more durable for regular drilling tasks than a less powerful standard drill.

Is a hammer drill heavier than a regular drill?

Generally, yes, a hammer drill can be slightly heavier and bulkier due to the internal mechanism that enables the hammer action. However, the difference is often minimal with modern designs, and the increased versatility usually outweighs the slight increase in weight for most users.

What happens if I use the hammer function on wood?

Using the hammer function on wood is generally not recommended. It can cause the wood to splinter or chip, create a rougher hole than desired, and unnecessarily wear down your drill bit and the drill’s hammer mechanism. It’s best to keep the hammer function off for all wood, metal, and plastic drilling.

Can I use a hammer drill to drive screws?

Absolutely! You can use a hammer drill to drive screws just like a regular drill driver, provided the hammer function is switched OFF. Make sure to use the clutch setting to prevent over-tightening and stripping screws.

Do I need a special chuck for a hammer drill?

No, hammer drills use standard chucks (usually keyless chucks) that accept all common types of drill bits and driver bits. The chuck itself is designed to securely hold the bit during both rotation and hammering actions.

Are hammer drills louder than regular drills?

Yes, when the hammer function is engaged, hammer drills are significantly louder due to the percussive action. However, when used in standard drill mode (hammer function off), they produce a similar noise level to a comparable standard drill driver.

In conclusion, a hammer drill is an incredibly adaptable tool that excels in both specialized masonry work and everyday drilling tasks. By understanding how to switch between its modes, you can confidently use your hammer drill for a vast array of projects, enjoying the convenience and power it offers. So go ahead, tackle that next project with the assurance that your hammer drill is ready for whatever you throw at it!