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How to Use a Drill as a Screwdriver: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
Quick Answer: Yes, you can absolutely use a drill as a screwdriver. Most modern cordless drills are designed for this. To do it safely, you must use a screwdriver bit, set the drill to a low speed, and most importantly, use the adjustable clutch to avoid stripping the screw or damaging your project.
Have you ever been ready to start a project, only to find your trusty screwdriver missing? But wait, you have a power drill sitting right there. You might wonder, “Can I just use this instead?”
It’s a very common question. The good news is, you’re in luck! Your drill is more than just a hole-maker; it’s a powerful and efficient screwdriver in disguise.
You just need to know which settings to use. Getting it wrong can lead to stripped screws, damaged wood, and a lot of frustration. But don’t worry, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step-by-step, to use your drill as a screwdriver like a pro.
Why Use a Drill as a Screwdriver?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “why.” Using your drill isn’t just a backup plan; it often has major advantages over a manual screwdriver.
- Speed: A drill drives screws in a fraction of the time it takes to do it by hand. This is a lifesaver for big projects like building a deck or assembling flat-pack furniture.
- Power: Driving long screws into hard materials like dense wood can be tough. A drill provides the torque to do the job effortlessly.
- Less Fatigue: Twisting a screwdriver over and over can be hard on your wrist and forearm. A drill does all the work for you, reducing physical strain.
Understanding Your Drill’s Key Features
To use your drill for screws, you need to understand a few key parts. Don’t worry, it’s simpler than it looks. Most modern cordless drills are actually called “drill/drivers” because they are designed for both jobs.
The Chuck
The chuck is the part at the very front of the drill that opens and closes. Its job is to grip the drill bit or screwdriver bit. Most modern drills have a “keyless chuck,” which means you can tighten and loosen it by hand—no extra tools needed.
The Clutch (The Most Important Part!)
This is the secret to not destroying your screws. The clutch is the numbered ring right behind the chuck. These numbers represent different levels of torque (twisting force). When the drill reaches the set torque level, the clutch will “slip” or “click,” stopping the bit from turning further.
- Low numbers (e.g., 1-4): Very little torque. Perfect for small screws in soft materials like drywall or pine.
- High numbers (e.g., 15+): Lots of torque. For driving long screws into hard materials.
- Drill Icon (⚑): This setting disengages the clutch completely, providing maximum, non-stop torque. Do not use this setting for driving screws! This is only for drilling holes.
The Speed Setting
Most drills have a switch on top with two speed settings: 1 and 2.
- Setting 1 (Low Speed, High Torque): This is the setting you want for driving screws. It gives you more control and power.
- Setting 2 (High Speed, Low Torque): This setting is for drilling holes. It’s too fast and uncontrollable for most screwdriving tasks.
The Forward/Reverse Switch
This button, usually located above the trigger, controls the direction the chuck spins. It typically has three positions:
- Forward (Righty-Tighty): For driving screws in.
- Reverse (Lefty-Loosey): For removing screws.
- Center (Lock): This locks the trigger, acting as a safety feature.
What You’ll Need: Tools & Materials
- A Cordless Drill/Driver: Any standard cordless drill with an adjustable clutch will work.
- Screwdriver Bit Set: You can’t use a drill bit. You need specific screwdriver bits. A good set will include various sizes of Phillips (cross-shape), Flathead (slot), Torx (star-shape), and Robertson (square) bits.
- Your Screws and Project: The screws you intend to drive and the material you’re working with.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Your Drill as a Screwdriver
Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to drive screws perfectly every time.
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Step 1: Choose the Right Screwdriver Bit
This is the most common beginner mistake. Look at the head of your screw. Does it have a cross, a slot, or a star shape? Now, find the screwdriver bit from your set that matches it perfectly. The bit should fit snugly into the screw head with very little wobble. Using the wrong size or type of bit is the #1 cause of “cam-out,” where the bit slips out of and damages the screw head (stripping it).
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Step 2: Insert the Bit into the Chuck
Put your drill in the locked (center) position. Hold the chuck with one hand and turn it counter-clockwise to open its jaws. Insert the non-driving end of the screwdriver bit. Now, turn the chuck clockwise by hand until it’s tight and the bit is held securely. Give the bit a little wiggle to make sure it’s firmly in place.
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Step 3: Set the Clutch (Torque Setting)
This step is critical for success. Look at the numbered ring behind the chuck. Always start with a low clutch setting. A setting of 3 or 4 is a good starting point for most general tasks.
Pro Tip: Test on a scrap piece of the same material first. Drive a screw in. If the clutch clicks before the screw is all the way in, increase the setting by one or two numbers and try again. The goal is to find the lowest setting that will drive the screw so it’s perfectly flush with the surface, but no further.
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Step 4: Set the Speed
Find the speed switch on the top of your drill and slide it to Setting 1 (Low Speed). This gives you the control you need for driving screws. Never use the high-speed setting.
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Step 5: Set the Direction
Push the forward/reverse switch so the drill is set to spin forward (clockwise) to drive the screw in. If you need to remove a screw, you’ll set it to reverse (counter-clockwise).
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Step 6: Drive the Screw!
You’re all set! Place the tip of the bit firmly into the screw head. Make sure the drill is straight and perfectly aligned with the screw—not at an angle. Apply firm, steady pressure directly behind the drill. Squeeze the trigger gently at first to start the screw. Most drills have a variable speed trigger, meaning the harder you squeeze, the faster it goes. Start slow, then increase speed as the screw goes in. As soon as the screw head is flush with the surface, the clutch will click and you can release the trigger. Perfect!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid These Pitfalls for Flawless Results
- Using the Drill Setting: Never use the drill icon setting for screws. It provides maximum power and will almost certainly strip your screw head or drive it too deep into your material.
- Setting the Clutch Too High: Starting with a high clutch setting is a recipe for disaster. It can strip the screw, crack the wood, or damage your project. Always start low and work your way up.
- Going Too Fast: Squeezing the trigger all the way immediately can cause the bit to slip and damage the screw. Start slow and maintain control.
- Not Applying Enough Pressure: You need to push the drill firmly into the screw. If you’re too gentle, the bit will jump out of the screw head (cam-out) as it spins.
- Using a Worn-Out Bit: A damaged or worn screwdriver bit will not grip the screw properly and will lead to stripping. If your bit looks rounded, it’s time for a new one.
When NOT to Use a Drill as a Screwdriver
While a drill is a fantastic screwdriver substitute, there are times when the old-fashioned manual way is better.
- Delicate Electronics: The torque from a drill, even on the lowest setting, can be too much for the tiny screws and fragile plastic in laptops, phones, and other electronics.
- Antique or Fine Furniture: When working with valuable or delicate pieces, the risk of damage is too high. A manual screwdriver gives you the “feel” and control needed to prevent over-tightening.
- Very Tight Spaces: A drill is bulky. If you can’t get it positioned straight onto the screw, you’re better off with a small or angled screwdriver.
Conclusion: Drive with Confidence
So, can you use a drill as a screwdriver? The answer is a resounding yes! It’s not just possible; it’s often faster, easier, and more efficient. By understanding your drill’s features—especially the clutch—and following a few simple steps, you can tackle almost any screwdriving job with confidence.
Remember the key takeaways: use the right bit, start with a low clutch setting, set the speed to low, and apply firm, steady pressure. With a little practice, you’ll be wondering why you ever did it by hand. Now go build something amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What’s the difference between a drill and a drill/driver?
The terms are often used interchangeably. A basic “drill” is primarily for making holes. A “drill/driver” is a more versatile tool that includes an adjustable clutch and speed settings, making it specifically designed for both drilling holes and driving screws. Most modern cordless drills on the market today are actually drill/drivers.
2. Can I use any drill bit to drive a screw?
No, you cannot. You must use a screwdriver bit. Drill bits are designed for cutting and removing material to create a hole. Screwdriver bits are shaped to fit perfectly into the head of a screw to turn it. Using a drill bit on a screw will not work and will damage the screw.
3. What does the clutch on my drill do again?
The clutch is a safety feature that controls the drill’s torque (twisting power). When the drill reaches the preset torque level set by the numbered ring, the clutch disengages the motor, making a clicking sound and stopping the bit from turning further. This prevents you from driving the screw too deep or stripping the screw head.
4. How do I know what clutch setting to use?
The best method is to start low and test it. A good starting point is around 3-5. If the drill starts clicking before the screw is fully seated, increase the number by one or two and try again. The perfect setting is the lowest one that drives the screw to be flush with the surface without over-tightening it.
5. What happens if I strip a screw? How do I fix it?
A stripped screw is one where the recesses in the head are damaged, so the bit can no longer get a grip. If this happens, don’t panic. There are several methods to remove it, such as using a special screw extractor kit or placing a wide rubber band between the bit and the screw head for extra grip. We have a full guide on how to remove a stripped screw for more detailed steps.
6. Can I use a corded drill as a screwdriver?
You can, but it’s often not ideal. Many older or cheaper corded drills lack an adjustable clutch and have poor low-speed control. They are designed for maximum power for drilling. Using one for screws greatly increases the risk of stripping screws or damaging your material. A cordless drill/driver is a much better choice for this task.
7. Is an impact driver better for screws?
For some jobs, yes. An impact driver is a specialized tool designed specifically for driving screws and fasteners with high torque. It uses rotational “impacts” to drive long screws with ease. For general-purpose DIY and furniture assembly, a drill/driver is more versatile. For heavy-duty jobs like building a deck, an impact driver is superior. For more information, check out this guide from This Old House on the differences.
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