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Can a Hammer Drill Be Used as a Regular Drill? The Simple Answer
Yes, you can absolutely use a hammer drill as a regular drill. The key is to turn off the “hammer” function. Nearly all hammer drills have a mode selector switch. Simply change the setting from the hammer symbol to the drill symbol, and it will work just like a standard drill.
Do you own a hammer drill? Maybe you bought one for a tough project, like drilling into brick or concrete. Now you have a simpler task, like hanging a picture frame on drywall or building a wooden shelf.
You look at your powerful tool and wonder, “Do I really need a second, regular drill for this?” It’s a common question. Nobody wants to buy and store extra tools if they don’t have to.
You are in the right place. We will clear up all the confusion. This guide will show you exactly how to use your hammer drill for everyday tasks. We will walk through the simple steps to make sure you get it right every time.
What Makes a Hammer Drill Different?
To understand why you can use a hammer drill as a regular one, it helps to know what makes it special. Think of a hammer drill as a regular drill with an extra superpower: a hammering action.
A regular drill just spins. It uses rotational force to cut a hole into materials like wood, plastic, or soft metal. The sharp edges of the drill bit do all the work, peeling away layers of the material as it turns.
A hammer drill does two things at once. It spins like a regular drill, but it also creates a rapid, forward-punching motion. It’s like thousands of tiny hammer taps pushing the drill bit forward while it spins. This combination is perfect for breaking up hard, brittle materials like:
- Concrete
- Brick
- Stone
- Masonry
This hammering action is the key difference. And luckily, on every consumer hammer drill, this feature can be turned off.
The Magic Switch: How to Turn Off the Hammer Function
The ability to switch between modes is what makes a hammer drill so versatile. Manufacturers know you won’t always be drilling into concrete, so they include a simple way to change the tool’s function.
Look for a switch or a rotating collar on your drill, usually near the chuck (the part that holds the drill bit). You will typically see two symbols:
- A Drill Bit Icon: This symbol looks like a simple twist drill bit. This is the “drill-only” or “regular drill” mode.
- A Hammer Icon: This symbol looks like a hammer. This is the “hammer drill” mode, which engages the hammering action.
Some more advanced models might have a third symbol for driving screws, which looks like a screw. For our purpose, the drill bit icon is the one you need for regular drilling tasks.
How to Use a Hammer Drill as a Regular Drill: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get started? It’s easier than you think. Here is how to safely set up your hammer drill for a standard drilling job.
Step 1: Find the Mode Selector Switch
First, locate the mode selector on your drill. It’s almost always on the top or side of the drill’s body, behind the clutch ring. It will have the icons we mentioned above. If you can’t find it, check your drill’s user manual, but it’s usually very prominent.
Step 2: Switch to “Drill-Only” Mode
Move the switch or turn the collar until the indicator is pointing to the drill bit icon. You might feel a solid “click” as it locks into place. This action mechanically disengages the hammering mechanism. Your drill will now only spin, just like a standard drill.
Step 3: Choose the Right Drill Bit
Now that your drill is in the correct mode, you need the right bit for the job. Do not use masonry bits for wood or metal. Masonry bits are designed to pulverize hard material, not cut soft material. Using one on wood will tear the fibers and create a messy, jagged hole.
- For wood, use a standard twist bit, a brad-point bit, or a spade bit.
- For metal, use a standard High-Speed Steel (HSS) bit. A cobalt or titanium-coated bit is even better.
- For plastic, a standard twist bit works well.
Insert the correct bit into the chuck and tighten it securely.
Step 4: Adjust the Clutch and Speed (If Applicable)
Most hammer drills also have an adjustable clutch (a numbered ring behind the chuck) and a speed selector (usually a switch on top). For drilling holes, set the clutch to the “drill” setting (often represented by the same drill bit icon). This provides maximum torque without stopping. Set the speed to high (usually “2”) for smaller bits and low (usually “1”) for larger bits that require more power.
Step 5: Drill Your Hole
You’re all set! Position the drill bit on your mark, hold the drill straight, and apply steady, even pressure. Let the drill do the work. You are now using your hammer drill just like a regular drill.
Pro-Tip: When drilling into a smooth surface like metal or laminate, use a center punch or a nail to create a small indent first. This will prevent the drill bit from “walking” or slipping when you start the hole.
When Should You Use the Hammer Function?
The hammer mode is a specialist. You should only switch it on when you are drilling into hard, mineral-based materials. Using it on wood or metal is a bad idea.
Warning: Never use the hammer function when drilling into wood, metal, or plastic. It will not drill faster. Instead, it will destroy your drill bit, damage the material you’re working on, and could be a safety hazard.
Use the hammer setting for:
- Pouring concrete slabs or walls
- Brick walls or fireplaces
- Mortar joints
- Cinder blocks
- Natural stone or tile (use a special tile bit and go slowly)
Are There Any Downsides to Using a Hammer Drill for Everything?
While a hammer drill is incredibly versatile, there are a couple of minor trade-offs to consider if you plan to use it as your only drill.
- Weight and Size: The internal hammering mechanism adds weight and bulk. Hammer drills are typically heavier and larger than their regular drill counterparts. For quick, small jobs or working in tight spaces, this extra weight can be tiring.
- Cost: Hammer drills are more complex, so they generally cost more than a standard drill with similar power. If you know you will never, ever drill into masonry, you can save money by buying a regular drill.
- Finesse: Some smaller, more compact regular drills offer a bit more finesse for delicate tasks. However, for 95% of household jobs, a hammer drill in drill-only mode is perfectly fine.
For most DIYers and homeowners, the incredible versatility of a hammer drill far outweighs these small disadvantages. Owning one tool that can handle both wood and concrete is a huge advantage.
Safety First: General Drilling Tips
No matter which mode you’re using, safety is critical. Always follow these best practices:
- Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris, whether it’s wood chips or concrete dust.
- Secure Your Work: Use clamps to hold down the material you are drilling. Never hold small pieces by hand.
- Use Two Hands: For tough jobs, use the auxiliary handle that came with your hammer drill. This gives you better control and prevents the drill from twisting in your hands if the bit binds.
- Know What’s Behind: Before drilling into a wall, be sure you know what’s behind it. Use a stud finder to check for pipes, electrical wires, and studs.
- Let the Bit Cool: When drilling deep holes or working with metal, drill bits can get very hot. Let them cool down periodically to prevent them from becoming dull or breaking.
For more detailed information on power tool safety, you can always consult an authoritative source like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a hammer drill to drive screws?
Yes. Switch the drill to “drill-only” mode (turn off the hammer function). Then, use the adjustable clutch ring. Start on a low number and increase it if the screw doesn’t go in all the way. This prevents you from stripping the screw head or driving it too deep. Using a proper screwdriver bit is essential.
2. What’s the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer?
A hammer drill uses a mechanical clutch system for its hammering action, which is great for smaller holes in brick and concrete. A rotary hammer (or SDS drill) uses a piston mechanism, creating a much more powerful, piston-driven hammering force. Rotary hammers are for heavy-duty work, like breaking up concrete or drilling large-diameter holes in dense masonry.
3. Do I need special drill bits for a hammer drill?
You only need special bits (masonry bits) when you are using the hammer function. When you use it as a regular drill, you use regular drill bits (wood bits for wood, HSS bits for metal). Masonry bits have a carbide tip designed for pulverizing, while standard bits have sharp edges for cutting.
4. My hammer drill feels heavy for regular tasks. What should I do?
This is the main trade-off. If you do a lot of light-duty work, like assembling furniture or crafts, you might consider getting a small, lightweight cordless screwdriver or a compact regular drill. But for general-purpose DIY, the hammer drill’s versatility is often worth the extra weight.
5. Can I damage my hammer drill by using it in the wrong mode?
You are more likely to damage the material or the drill bit. Using hammer mode on wood will tear it up. Using it on metal will ruin the bit and make a mess. Using a regular bit in hammer mode will destroy the bit instantly. The drill itself is tough, but using the correct mode and bit is crucial for good results and a long life for your accessories.
6. What does the numbered ring on my drill do?
That is the clutch. It’s designed for driving screws. Each number represents a torque setting. A low number means the drill will stop turning with very little resistance, which is good for small screws in soft materials. A high number provides more torque for larger screws. The drill icon on the clutch ring bypasses the clutch entirely for maximum drilling power.
Conclusion: One Drill to Rule Them All?
So, can a hammer drill be used as a regular drill? The answer is a resounding yes.
By simply flipping a switch, you can transform your powerful masonry drill into a precise tool for wood, metal, and plastic. It’s this two-in-one capability that makes a hammer drill one of the most valuable and versatile power tools a homeowner or DIY enthusiast can own.
While it may be slightly heavier than a standard drill, its ability to tackle any project you throw at it—from building a deck to mounting a TV on a brick wall—makes it an excellent investment. Just remember the golden rule: match the mode and the bit to the material, and you’ll be ready for anything.
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