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Can I Use an Impact Driver as a Drill? A Beginner’s Guide
Yes, you can use an impact driver as a drill for certain tasks. You will need special hex-shank drill bits to fit the tool. It works best for drilling smaller holes in soft wood or thin metal. For large holes, precision work, or drilling in hard materials, a standard drill is the better choice.
Have you ever been in the middle of a project, needing to make a hole, only to realize you have an impact driver in your hand instead of a drill? It’s a common moment for many new DIYers. You look at the tool, you look at the wood, and you wonder, “Can this thing actually make a hole?”
You’re not alone in asking this question, and the good news is you’ve come to the right place for a clear answer. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover when it’s okay to use your impact driver for drilling, when it’s a bad idea, and exactly how to do it safely and effectively. Let’s get you back to your project with confidence.
Understanding the Core Differences: Impact Driver vs. Drill
Before we dive into the “how-to,” it’s vital to understand why this question even exists. Impact drivers and drills look similar, but they work in very different ways. Knowing the difference is key to using them correctly and avoiding frustration.
What is a Drill? (Smooth Rotational Force)
A standard drill, or drill-driver, is designed for one primary purpose: to spin a bit with consistent, smooth rotational force. Think of it as a powerful, high-speed screwdriver.
- The Chuck: A drill has an adjustable three-jaw chuck that can grip a wide variety of round-shank and hex-shank bits. You twist the collar to open and close these jaws.
- The Clutch: Most drills have a numbered clutch collar. This lets you set the maximum amount of torque. Once it reaches that torque, the clutch slips with a clicking sound, preventing you from driving a screw too deep or stripping the screw head.
- The Speed Setting: Drills usually have a two-speed gearbox (high for drilling, low for driving screws) for better control.
A drill is your go-to tool for precision. It gives you smooth control, making it perfect for creating clean, exact holes.
What is an Impact Driver? (Rotational Force + Concussive Blows)
An impact driver is a specialist. Its main job is to drive long screws and large fasteners with incredible force. It does this by combining rotation with powerful, rapid bursts of concussive force.
- The Collet: An impact driver has a 1/4-inch quick-connect collet that only accepts 1/4-inch hex-shank bits. You simply push the bit in to lock it.
- The Impacting Mechanism: When the tool senses resistance (like when a screw gets tight), an internal hammer and anvil mechanism kicks in. This delivers thousands of powerful “impacts” per minute, creating massive amounts of torque that a drill can’t match. This is what makes that loud, rattling “brrrap-brrrap” sound.
- High Torque, No Clutch: Impact drivers have no clutch. They will continue driving a fastener with full power until you release the trigger, which can easily snap a screw head if you’re not careful.
Think of an impact driver as a tiny, high-speed jackhammer that also spins. This makes it amazing for driving, but less ideal for delicate drilling.
Quick Comparison: Drill vs. Impact Driver
| Feature | Drill / Driver | Impact Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Drilling clean holes, driving small screws | Driving long screws and large fasteners |
| Action | Smooth, consistent rotation | Rotation + rapid concussive impacts |
| Bit Holder | Adjustable 3-jaw chuck | 1/4-inch hex quick-connect collet |
| Torque Control | Adjustable clutch | None (controlled by trigger finger) |
| Best For | Precision, clean holes, delicate work | Power, speed, high-torque applications |
When Can You Use an Impact Driver as a Drill? (The Green Light)
In a pinch, your impact driver can absolutely work as a drill. It shines in a few specific situations:
- Drilling Pilot Holes in Wood: When you’re about to drive a screw, drilling a small pilot hole first prevents the wood from splitting. An impact driver with a hex-shank bit is perfect for this quick job.
- Small Holes in Softwood: Need to drill a hole under 1/2 inch (about 12mm) in pine, cedar, or other softwoods? An impact driver can handle this without much trouble.
- Thin Sheet Metal: The high speed of an impact driver can quickly punch through thin metal, like ductwork or metal studs.
- When Speed is More Important Than a Clean Hole: If you’re just trying to make a rough hole quickly and the finish doesn’t matter, an impact driver will get it done fast.
When Should You NOT Use an Impact Driver for Drilling? (The Red Light)
Using an impact driver in the wrong situation can lead to poor results, broken bits, or damaged projects. For these tasks, grab a proper drill.
- Large Diameter Holes: Using large spade bits or hole saws with an impact driver is a bad idea. The violent impacts can cause the bit to jam, potentially jerking the tool from your hand or even breaking your wrist. A drill provides the smooth, steady torque needed for these bits.
- Hard Materials (Thick Metal, Masonry, Tile): The impacts are not designed for drilling into hard surfaces like brick, concrete, or thick steel. It will likely just chatter and dull the bit. For masonry, you need a hammer drill, which has a different type of forward-and-back impact action.
- Precision Work: If you need a perfectly clean, round hole (like for dowel joints or fine woodworking), an impact driver is the wrong tool. The impacts can cause the bit to “walk” or create a slightly oblong, messy hole.
- Brittle Materials: Trying to drill into plastics or acrylics with an impact driver can easily cause them to crack and shatter. A drill with slow, controlled speed is essential.
How to Use an Impact Driver as a Drill: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve decided your task is a good fit for an impact driver. Great! Follow these steps to get the best results safely.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Your impact driver
- A set of impact-rated, hex-shank drill bits
- Safety glasses (non-negotiable)
- Work gloves (recommended)
- The material you are drilling into (e.g., a piece of wood)
- A clamp to secure your workpiece
Step 1: Choose the Right Drill Bit
This is the most important step. You cannot use standard, round-shank drill bits in an impact driver. You must use bits with a 1/4-inch hexagonal shank that fits into the collet. For best results, use bits that are also “impact-rated.” These are made from more durable steel designed to withstand the tool’s concussive force.
Step 2: Insert the Bit Securely
On most impact drivers, you simply push the hex-shank bit into the collet until it clicks into place. Give it a gentle pull to ensure it’s locked in. To remove it, you’ll typically pull the outer ring of the collet forward and the bit will release.
Step 3: Put On Your Safety Gear
Always, always, always wear safety glasses. Wood chips or metal shavings can be ejected at high speed. An impact driver is loud, especially when the impacting mechanism engages, so hearing protection is also a good idea for prolonged use.
Step 4: Start Drilling Slowly
The biggest challenge with drilling with an impact driver is control. Unlike a drill, it wants to go full-speed. To prevent the bit from “walking” across your surface, start with very light pressure on the variable-speed trigger. Let the bit start to bite into the material and create a small divot before you increase the speed.
Pro-Tip: For metal or very hard wood, use a center punch or even a nail to create a small indentation for the drill bit to sit in. This will keep it perfectly centered as you begin drilling.
Step 5: Apply Steady, Firm Pressure and Let the Tool Work
Once the hole is started, apply firm, steady pressure straight down. Don’t force it. Let the tool’s speed and power do the work. You will likely hear and feel the impacts start to kick in as the bit meets more resistance. This is normal. Continue drilling until you’ve reached the desired depth or gone all the way through.
Safety First: Potential Risks
Be aware of the high torque. If the bit binds suddenly, the tool can twist violently in your hand. Always use a firm, two-handed grip if possible. Also, the drill bit can become extremely hot after drilling, especially in metal. Let it cool down before touching it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use regular, round drill bits in an impact driver?
No, not directly. A standard impact driver has a 1/4-inch hex collet and cannot grip a round bit. You can buy a special chuck adapter that has a hex shank on one end and a traditional three-jaw chuck on the other, but this adds bulk and “wobble,” reducing precision. It’s generally better to just buy a proper set of hex-shank drill bits.
2. What are hex-shank drill bits?
These are drill bits where the base of the bit (the part that goes into the tool) is shaped like a hexagon. This shape allows it to lock securely into the quick-connect collet of an impact driver. Many are also “impact-rated,” meaning they are built to be more durable.
3. Will an impact driver damage the wood when drilling?
It can. Because of the high speed and concussive impacts, an impact driver is more likely to cause “tear-out”—splintering wood around the entry and exit points of the hole. For a clean, beautiful finish, a standard drill is always superior. For rough construction, this is less of a concern.
4. Is an impact driver better than a drill for driving screws?
Yes, overwhelmingly. This is what an impact driver was born to do. The impacts prevent the bit from slipping out of the screw head (cam-out) and drive long screws with minimal effort from you. If you are building a deck or framing a wall, an impact driver will be your best friend. For more on this, check out our guide on Impact Driver vs. Drill for Screws.
5. Can I use an impact driver for concrete or brick?
No. This is a common point of confusion. An impact driver’s rotational impacts are not effective for drilling into masonry. You need a hammer drill, which provides a forward-and-back, hammering motion (like a tiny jackhammer) specifically designed to pulverize concrete and brick as it drills. Using an impact driver will just ruin your bit and make a lot of noise.
6. Why is my impact driver so loud?
The loud, rattling noise is the sound of the internal hammer striking the anvil. This is the impacting mechanism engaging, which happens when the tool senses resistance. It’s a normal part of its operation and a sign that the tool is delivering maximum torque.
7. Is it worth owning both a drill and an impact driver?
For anyone who does DIY projects regularly, the answer is a resounding yes. While there is some overlap, they are designed for different jobs. Owning both means you will always have the perfect tool for the task, leading to faster work, better results, and less frustration. Many brands sell them together in a combo kit, which is often the most cost-effective way to buy them.
Conclusion: The Right Tool for the Right Job
So, can you use an impact driver as a drill? The answer is a qualified “yes.” It’s a capable substitute in a pinch for small holes in softer materials, as long as you use the correct hex-shank bits.
However, it’s not a true replacement for a drill. For precision, control, clean finishes, and drilling large holes or into hard materials, a standard drill remains the undisputed champion. The impact driver’s true strength lies in its incredible power for driving screws and fasteners.
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each tool is the mark of a smart DIYer. By choosing the right tool for the job, you’ll work more safely, efficiently, and achieve a more professional result every time. Happy building!
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