Drill or screwdriver, which is better? What is the difference between a drill and a screwdriver: features and differences Brands you can trust

With this article, our site continues a whole cycle of useful materials, the purpose of which will be to facilitate the selection of any product from the thousands of options offered on the market. Agree, the choice of a specific model of a device always takes a lot of time that can be spent usefully. In today's article we will talk about the choice drill or screwdriver .

Introduction

A drill or screwdriver is an almost indispensable tool for both construction and repair work. He should be present in every household - at least so that there is something to hang a picture or a mirror with on the wall. It is rather difficult for an untrained person to choose a drill from all kinds and models, and that is why we are talking about these difficulties in this article.

The choice of a drill or screwdriver depends on three main factors. Firstly, you need to choose a specific model depending on what material you will be working with - from the material of the walls in the house, the material with which you work in the workshop, and so on. Secondly, the choice depends on the scope of the instrument - home / amateur or professional. Thirdly, the drill must be selected taking into account the need for special functions.

Do not overpay for a tool, some of the functions of which you will use very rarely or will not use at all. It is worth overpaying for the quality that distinguishes the models of certain well-known manufacturers - such as Bosch, Metabo, Hitachi and others. Naturally, it is worth reading online and reviews for a particular drill.

Finally, the power of the tool is a very important factor. The principle of "the more, the better" does not always apply here - the extra useless power will only make the drill more expensive and voracious in terms of energy consumption.

In the next section, we will tell you about the important characteristics of drills and screwdrivers, and then we will present to your attention ten of the best models that can be found and purchased in our catalog.

The main characteristics of drills and screwdrivers

Appointment

Depending on the purpose, the drills are divided into wrenches, screwdrivers, conventional drills, drills, screwdrivers and drill mixers. All these names speak for themselves, but it is worth saying the main thing - quite often the power, functions and design of the drill allow it to be used for other purposes. For example, a wrench can be hammer drilled and will work well for making holes in a concrete wall. In this case, however, you should not mindlessly load the drill with non-core work - you should monitor its overheating and take care of the components of the device.

By type, drills are divided into hammerless, percussion, angle and diamond drills. The latter are used by professionals as diamond drilling is the best way to drill in general. For obvious reasons, such models are very expensive compared to others and are rarely used at home.

Hammerless drills are used to drill soft materials such as wood, plastic, metal or plaster. They only rotate the drill without making any other effort to deepen the hole.

Impact models not only rotate the drill, but also very quickly move it back and forth, thus making it much easier to work with hard materials - brick and concrete. However, the impact function can often be turned off for more sensitive surfaces.

Angle drills are drills that are designed to be used in hard-to-reach places - after attaching the drill, they resemble the letter "G". Due to the complexity of such a design, they are much more expensive, but they are practically irreplaceable, for example, in a car repair shop.

Chuck type

The two main types of chuck are key and keyless chuck. In most cases, you can use drills with a keyless chuck, into which the drill can be inserted quickly and easily - just a little hand force is enough. But for working with very hard materials, models with a key chuck are preferred, in which the drill is clamped using a special key (that is, it can be clamped much stronger).

Chuck diameter

The diameter of the chuck determines the size of the drill or bits that can be used with it. Before buying a drill, be sure to determine the approximate parameters of the holes that you will make, and select a specific model based on these requirements.

Power

The more powerful the drill, the more durable and solid materials it will succumb to. For example, for drilling in soft materials such as wood, plaster and plastic, a drill with a power of up to 500 watts is enough. Concrete and brick will require a 600-800 watt percussion model as a minimum. At the same time, you can drill a hole in a concrete wall, small in diameter and depth, with a 500-watt drill - the main thing is not to force it to work in this mode too often and for too long.

Maximum torque

A high torque rating is useful for making holes in "heavy" materials like steel - a drill with a small torque will simply stall and the drill will get stuck. Pay attention to the markings on the drill itself or its case.

Number of working speeds

The ability to work at several speeds expands the scope of a particular drill - for example, a powerful model can be used both for drilling concrete and for driving screws, if it has the ability to change speeds. Again, check the labeling.

Modes of operation

Different types of work may require different operating modes of the drill. As mentioned above, the most important mode is the impact mode, when, in addition to the rotational movement of the drill, a translational movement is also performed.

There are also chiseling modes (impact mode without rotation; such a drill can often replace a hammer drill) and impulse. The latter rotates the drill in jerks, which can be useful, for example, for unscrewing a screw with a torn off head.

Safety clutch

If you are not a professional, then you will surely face a situation in which your drill will not cope with the task at hand, and the drill will be blocked. In this case, the safety clutch will save her from "death". She will not allow the drill to transfer all its power to the user's hands.

Electronic overload protection

More advanced electronic protection will automatically turn off the drill motor - in this case, the clutch will not need to be replaced.

Drilling depth stop

This is a metal or plastic rod that attaches to the drill body and avoids making the hole longer than necessary. It will be very useful in any conditions.

Magnetic holder on the body

Models with such a holder are very convenient - it allows you to store nearby all the necessary consumables such as screws and self-tapping screws.

Backlight

If the drill will be used in poorly lit places, then the presence of a backlight will help a lot - it is very important to monitor the hole during operation.

Reverse

The possibility of rotating the drill in the opposite direction will make it easy to use any drill and as a screwdriver.

Battery operation and type

Most drills use rechargeable batteries - you can't always find a power outlet nearby. The disadvantages compared to networked models are obvious - limited battery life and additional cost of batteries.

Drills with Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium) batteries are unpretentious, have a long service life and will cope with work in the cold. Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries are less toxic, heavy and smaller. Finally, Li-ion (lithium-ion) batteries last 2-3 years and do not tolerate low temperatures, but they are not too large and heavy, and also quite capacious.

Case included

It is best to buy a drill with a case that will serve to carry and store it along with all the necessary drills and other accessories. The cost, if available, does not rise too much.

10 best drills and screwdrivers

Cheap and high quality, but rather weak screwdriver for work in small volumes. Will perfectly cope with small chores around the house.

An inexpensive percussion model for home use, which combines the most necessary qualities: reliability, low cost and versatility.

A great and affordable model that will handle most household tasks. Versatile, comfortable and multifunctional.

Professional drill mixer that will cope not only with drilling holes, but also with mixing various viscous solutions and mixtures.

Shockless model for drilling plastic, wood and metal. For its power (2 kW) it is very convenient and lightweight.

Expensive (which is typical for angle drills), powerful and very high quality model of high power. Comfortable handle, light weight and reverse.

Compact and reliable model for home use. It can both drill and tighten or unscrew the screws.

An inexpensive, low-power corded hammer drill suitable for applications where an outlet is available. Good in apartment conditions.

Compact and handy drill with Li-ion battery (and an additional battery included), very well suited for work at home.

Compact and powerful drill driver that can also hammer drill. Suitable for a very wide range of home and renovation work.

Conclusion

We hope this article helped you deal with the daunting task of choosing drill or screwdriver... The next article will focus on

In the arsenal of each owner there is a tool that allows you to tighten or unscrew a screw, a self-tapping screw to make minor home repairs, assemble furniture, drill a wall for a new picture. Automatic electric drills greatly simplify the process, allowing you to drill almost any surface without much effort and unnecessary debris.

Now on the market there is a huge selection of tools from different manufacturers, models, wired and mobile, for various surfaces and with a different principle of operation. According to experts, among the colossal variety of drills, the impact driver is the most productive, convenient, versatile and multifunctional.

Differences between a traditional drill and an impact type screwdriver

Before many craftsmen who choose tools for home use or for work, the question arises, what is the difference between the not yet well-known impact-type screwdriver and the usual standard electric drill. With a similar appearance, the main difference is the principle of operation:

• In the first case, the tool has an impact mechanism that drives the drill, while increasing the torque;
• A standard electric drill is based on a two-stage gearbox.

This distinction is starting to show itself, giving an advantage to the percussion type tool when working on hard and particularly difficult surfaces. When the drill senses resistance, it sends out a series of powerful and quick blows that multiply the torque and make it much easier to tighten the fastener.

It is also worth distinguishing between an impact driver and a drill. With the same principle of operation, they have a different direction of impact. For a drill, this is longitudinal, and for a screwdriver, it is perpendicular to the direction of rotation. The process of action of the tool is most clearly represented as small blows with a wrench while tightening the nut.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Impact Tools

For many buyers who are faced with the choice of which drill or wrench to choose, the question arises of how an impact driver is superior to a non-impact model.

• The increased torque allows the technician to apply significantly less effort when working with the tool, without pressing on the body itself. For most models, the values ​​of this indicator are in the range from 80 to 250 N / m.
• The possibility of using not only for self-tapping screws, but also for working with nuts. With the free running of the product, the screwdriver works in the standard mode, when resistance occurs and the unhindered movement of the nut along the thread is reduced, the mode automatically switches to the impact mode.
• Since there is no need to apply excessive force to tighten the bolts and screws, the caps will not deform. The power of the tool is also sufficient for the reverse action - unscrewing the parts that have changed their original shape or rusted;
• The ease of use also helps relieve stress on the user's hand and wrist.

Limitations and disadvantages of impact-producing screwdrivers include a decrease in the tightening speed during impact mode, since the actions of the tool concentrate on the turning moment and on the quality of work. Also, only hex chucks can be used. The degrees of tightening must be controlled independently, since there is no limiting clutch. There is also an increased noise level when working at high speed.

Applications

The fundamental difference between percussion models and standard ones is their compatibility with other devices. You can use a hole saw in parallel, and also replace the functions of a conventional drill for drilling holes using special attachments.

An impact screwdriver is needed for minor repairs, fastening parts, and for drilling particularly durable surfaces. Many professional workers have appreciated the lightness and compactness of the percussion models. At a high rotation speed of the drill, neither the screws themselves nor the fasteners are damaged. Manufacturers and stores offer a wide range of models that allows you to choose a tool at a low price, which will help out both for minor household repairs and for active use in the workshop.

you need to know how a screwdriver differs from a drill.

This affects the correct organization of work and its efficiency.

Sometimes, these mechanized tools perform operations that together provide strength and aesthetics of the structure.

Humanity has long been using drills and other tools for making holes in various works.

Over time, a drill appeared, which made it possible to mechanize the manual labor of drillers.

After the invention of the electric motor, a drill was invented, in which the drill was rotated with the help of such a motor.

In various sectors of the national economy and in everyday life, the most different types of drills are used, making holes in materials of any hardness.

In addition, attachments attached to them began to be used, which made it possible to perform grinding and cutting. Drills began to be used for loosening and tightening screws.

Today, pneumatic, electric and even gasoline drills are common. The most popular are electric drills, which are used by both professionals and for various household tasks.

They usually differ:

• pistol-shaped body
• an electric motor located inside it
• a mechanism that provides the effect of impact when drilling
• the presence of a switch, power regulator
• chuck for fixing drills and various attachments.

Outwardly similar to a drill is a screwdriver. To understand how a screwdriver differs from a drill, it is enough to determine their purpose. If functionally serves for making holes, then the screwdriver is specially designed to quickly tighten or unscrew screws, screws and other screw fasteners.

Comparing screwdriver and drill

In a screwdriver, one of the most important parameters is the maximum torque.

No high rotation speed required.

Under normal conditions, two to three hundred revolutions per minute are sufficient.

Sometimes a gearbox is installed to reduce speed and increase torque.

This is done using a special regulator.

They are given the force required to tighten a specific type of screw or screw, to avoid their deformation.

A screwdriver usually has a reverse to unscrew screws or free from jamming.

It can have several speeds, anti-overload. There are screwdrivers on sale, supplemented with a drilling function. The main thing that distinguishes a screwdriver from a drill-screwdriver is the presence of a release clutch, which regulates the twisting force, it does not allow deeper than the screw to be tightened.

The difference is also in the holder. If the screwdriver assumes the use of a bit of the desired size with a hex shank, then a keyless chuck for a round in diameter drill is used in the drill.

The drill, regardless of the presence of adjustment, cannot ensure the accuracy of tightening, as a result, the head of the fastener or the screwing attachment itself may be damaged.

The most common electric screwdrivers and drills can be powered by mains power and a battery. More powerful drills use mains electricity. Especially when it comes to a tool with an impact function, where rotary and reciprocating movements are combined.

When using cordless power tools, the advantage of screwdrivers is clear. With the same charge and voltage, they show in front of the drill. This is determined by their technical parameters, primarily the maximum torque.

The operating time of each tool depends on the type, voltage and capacity of the battery.

Most often, household products have nickel-cadmium batteries. Their peculiarity is that they need to be discharged "to zero" and charged to full charge.

What is the difference

Both types of tools are necessary in professional activities and everyday life.

Answering the question, what is the difference between a screwdriver and a cordless drill, it should be noted that the screwdriver has a specific purpose - to tighten and unscrew screws, screws and self-tapping screws.

It is convenient for assembling and dismantling various structures, furniture, wood products, drywall, etc.

Its design allows it to be done quickly and accurately.

The cordless drill also allows you to perform the drilling function quickly and accurately.

Both of these are good for performing the tasks for which they were created.

However, with the advent of efficient battery-powered drills with the functions of a screwdriver and a screwdriver with the ability to drill, the difference between them decreases.

The main thing is that it is usually enough for twisting that the torque is about 9-10 Newton meters at a speed of 500 rpm.

The cordless drill requires a torque of up to 20 Nm and at least 1500 rpm.

When choosing the right tool, you should take into account:

• battery type and spare
• possibility of stepless speed adjustment for drilling and twisting
• information about the torque that determines the purpose of the tool
• the convenience of regulating the optimal torque.

If we are talking about a professional tool, then screwdrivers can take more time continuously. They wear out less.

The video shows a comparison of impact and non-impact screwdrivers:

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Many of their readers still remember those times when, to work with fasteners or threaded connections, it was necessary to use only screwdrivers and ordinary wrenches. It is clear that it is not even necessary to speak about the high productivity of such works. Very often, in order to "drive" the screw into place, it was impossible to do without preliminary, since the efforts of the hand in this case it is not enough for overcoming the resistance of hard wood, not to mention the situation when it was required to "pierce" even the thinnest metal sheet. Several hours of such work - and the inevitable blisters on the hands, and the work barely progressed.

The situation changed radically with the advent of screwdrivers. At first, they were classified as a kind of instrumental “exoticism” that aroused genuine envy. But very soon these useful tools appeared on the free market, "migrated" into the category of publicly available ones, and today they are included in the obligatory "arsenal" of the overwhelming majority of owners of houses or apartments. Those who are just now thinking about purchasing such an invaluable assistant should first understand the question of how to choose a screwdriver, that is, what to pay special attention to when evaluating the models presented in a wide range.

The main types of screwdrivers

Under the general name "screwdriver", consumers often mean several types of such tools at once, which, despite the general similarity of functions, still have differences. So, there are three main types:

• Electric screwdrivers.
• Electric wrenches.
• The most versatile - drills... Some models may also be equipped with a shock function.

The most popular demand is for tools that work autonomously, from rechargeable batteries. However, it is quite possible to purchase a screwdriver operating from a regular 220 V / 50 Hz network. Tools with a cord for plugging into an outlet are commonly called “power tools”.

It is necessary to become more familiar with the main types - this will make it easier to make a choice, having a realistic idea of ​​the intended nature of the work, their intensity and the load on the tool.

Electric screwdrivers.

Although in terms of their main performance indicators and general functionality, cordless screwdrivers are to some extent inferior to standard ones drills, they have their own specific merits, which make these instruments widely popular among both professional craftsmen and amateurs. These invaluable "pluses" include a small weight, compact layout of the device, high ergonomics. This allows the use of cordless screwdrivers in conditions where the use of a larger tool is either associated with great inconvenience, or even simply impossible.

Such a tool becomes indispensable on production lines for the assembly of small household equipment, computer and office equipment; it is widely used by craftsmen in the production or final assembly process. Due to their compactness, ergonomics and low weight, such screwdrivers do not cause quick hand fatigue, and therefore are very convenient for work at height, including, for example, when installing suspended ceilings.

Cordless screwdrivers come in various designs. Many models have a cylindrical body, which, however, is equipped with a swivel joint that allows you to fold, if necessary, to concentrate the downward force of the hand.

Other screwdrivers have the usual "pistol" shape, but always - very compact, fits comfortably in the palm of your hand.

In addition, very user-friendly models are produced, in which the swivel connection is provided for the working head with a rotating chuck. This opens up the possibility of tightening fasteners or dismantling in the most inconvenient places where it is impossible to start a conventional tool.

The compactness of such power tools is achieved through the use of small batteries, with a voltage usually in the range from 3 to 9 V. Screwdrivers are not exposed to high speeds - as a rule, from 150 to 250 rpm. For their direct purpose, this is quite enough, as well as a tightening torque of about 10 N × m. For the vast majority of fasteners, especially in domestic conditions, such indicators are more than enough. However, there are also more advanced models, equipped with a two-speed switch, and allowing drilling work with plastic and wood - their rotation frequency can reach up to 600 rpm.

Almost all cordless screwdrivers are equipped with a ”hex bit adapter. Usually, bits for various types of fasteners, as well as small diameter drills with the same hex shank, are included in the set of the screwdriver itself.

Unlike larger tools, electric screwdrivers are often equipped with a non-removable battery housed in the product body. For charging, a special power supply adapter is used that plugs into an outlet.

What's the bottom line? If the owner has a good drill in his toolbox, and he only needs to mechanize the process of working with fasteners, then a cordless screwdriver can be a very useful assistant. In the convenience of such operation, it surpasses a screwdriver, but is significantly inferior to it in functionality.

Electric wrenches

One more the type of instrument that is very similar to a screwdriver, and even in certain circumstances can be used in its capacity, but it still has features that are directly related to its direct purpose.

If the master, according to the specifics of his work, very often has to resort to the installation or dismantling of threaded connections of medium or large diameter, then limiting himself to performing monotonous operations using wrenches means dramatically reducing his labor productivity. A classic example is an assembly production put on stream or, which is closer to private practice, auto repair or tire shops. In addition, in particular, when repairing machines, very often one has to deal with old, "sour" nodes, which are very difficult to unscrew by hand, even after processing with a special compound.

The way out is the use of an impact wrench. Its design is such that, in addition to the usual rotary movement, impulse actions with a certain frequency are transmitted to the working part of the spindle by a special mechanism. In a word, these are a kind of "micro-impacts" capable of moving and unscrewing even very rusted nuts or bolts, without violating the integrity of the edges of their heads.

Most impact wrenches have a familiar pistol-like design, but can be additionally equipped with a removable side handle to concentrate the downforce when the connection is pulled off. Nevertheless, there are also "straight" devices with a perpendicular working head - for performing operations in hard-to-reach places.

Of course, such operations require a special drive power - usually it ranges from 350 W for the smallest instruments and even up to 1300 W for professional-grade devices. The speed of rotation is not decisive here, and it is usually not high. But due to this, a high torque is achieved, which even in "weak" impact wrenches is about 200 ÷ 300 N × m (compare, for example, with the already considered cordless screwdriver!) W, this figure can even reach 1000 Nm.

In appearance, nutrunners are very similar to screwdrivers, but they are distinguished by a feature - the absence of a maximum torque adjustment ring ("ratchet"). The working tip of the spindle also differs - most often there is a square adapter for end heads. The dimensions of the square for models of different power may differ - ½ (most often - for household-class models), ¾ or even 1 inch (for a professional powerful tool), which means that the sets of heads should be purchased accordingly. Although, for this case, there are special adapters.

Some manufacturers immediately provide for increased adapter versatility. So, in the center of the square spindle, there can be a socket for inserting standard ¼ ”hexagons - bit shanks or drills.

But even this does not add much versatility to the nutrunner. Its specific electromechanical characteristics are nevertheless "sharpened" for specific operations. High torque, and even with a pulsed mode, can be completely unnecessary and even harmful when working with materials that do not require excessive efforts. And a low rotation speed may be insufficient for drilling.

In a word, an impact wrench, if the specifics of the work of the mate involve its frequent use, will be a good addition to the screwdriver, but it is unlikely to be able to completely replace it in the arsenal of the householder.

By the way, many well-known manufacturers produce tool kits, inwhich includes and drill driver, and an impact wrench, which are powered by one set of batteries. Here this is a truly versatile set... True, its cost is quite high, and such a purchase must really be justified.

Drill drivers

This is the most common and most commonly purchased variety of such tools, with increased versatility.

The overwhelming majority of these screwdrivers are made according to the basic "pistol" scheme.

1 - body made of impact-resistant plastic (some professional-grade models have an all-metal body). Inside there is an electric drive with control elements, a well-thought-out air cooling system.

2 - pistol grip. In high-quality models, it has rubberized pads that prevent the tool from slipping in the worker's hand, making the tool as comfortable as possible.

3 - rechargeable battery with a locking mechanism in the handle. In most models, it looks similar to that shown in the figure. However, some modern screwdrivers are equipped with powerful compact-type batteries that are completely hidden inside the handle, making the tool even more comfortable to work with.

4 - start key (trigger). Moving the trigger simultaneously smoothly adjusts the rotational speed of the screwdriver spindle. Usually the trigger is also covered with rubber or soft plastic.

5 - switch for the direction of spindle rotation (reverse). Made so that the switching process is as simple as possible - just enough finger effort.

6 - gearbox switch, which allows you to change the operating modes of the tool - low revolutions with a high tightening force, or, conversely, high-speed rotation required to perform drilling operations. This feature is not available on all models.

7 - chuck for clamping the working tool - bit holder or drills. The design of the cartridge can be different. Some models do not have a chuck - they have a ¼ ”hex socket for standard bit shanks or special drills. The types of cartridges will be discussed below.

8 - chuck clamping jaws.

9 - an indispensable element of any screwdriver - a mechanism for limiting the torque transmitted to the chuck. Usually it is made according to the "ratchet" principle - when the set tightening torque is exceeded, the clutch slips with a characteristic sound. The number of torque setting positions can be different - from 5 ÷ 6 in inexpensive models to two dozen or more in professional tools. The drilling mode is necessarily provided - when the rotation is transmitted from the gearbox to the chuck without torque restrictions. This mode is indicated by the corresponding icon.

10 - modern screwdriver models v In all, they are often equipped with an LED illumination system for the work area. Location LEDs can be different.

Thus, this type of screwdriver is the most versatile, which predetermines its widest popularity among professionals and home craftsmen.

What to look for when choosing screwdriver

When deciding whether to purchase a particular model drill-screwdriver, the future owner of the instrument must clearly understand, for what goals it is necessary, what kind operations are planned to be performed by him and with which intensity to exploit. It is these preliminary "outlines" that will become the basic points in assessing the characteristics of the devices offered for sale.

Type of batteries and their characteristics

It is advisable to start the consideration precisely with the "energy" of the screwdriver. No matter how wonderful the tool itself is, its performance directly depends on the batteries, the cost of which, by the way, is always more than half the price of the entire set. Surely, many had to deal with a situation when the screwdriver itself is still quite functional, but the way out of troy power supplies creates a lot of problems. It is far from always possible to find a suitable replacement - many manufacturers do not put batteries on sale separately, apparently trying to stimulate users to purchase a new set.

The main characteristics of screwdriver batteries are voltage and capacity.

• From voltage directly the power of the electric drive and, accordingly, the maximum torque, which determines the functionality of the tool, depend. So, on sale most often there are screwdrivers with a battery with a voltage of 9.6; 12; 14.4 or 18 V. This, however, is not the limit - in powerful professional tools accumulators of 20 or even more volts (up to 36 volts) meet. 9 volts still looks a little small even for a household tool. The optimal solution for a screwdriver purchased for household needs, most likely, will be the "golden mean" - with 14.4 V batteries.

By the way, you can find almost the same from the same manufacturer, differing only in the supply voltage and, as a result, in power indicators. But even in this case, it should be understood that the batteries are not interchangeable - the electric drive is designed for a specific voltage, and exceeding it will lead to its failure.

• Battery capacity is measured in ampere-hours (Ah or Ah - you can find both one and the other designation). Usually, this indicator is indicated on the markings placed on the battery case, next to the voltage.

Basically, battery capacity is a measure of how long a tool can run on one fully charged battery without recharging. Naturally, the larger this value, the less often it will be necessary to interrupt work to replace the power supply and set the cells for recharging.

Typically for household screwdrivers used occasionally, a capacity indicator of 1.2 ÷ 2 Ah is sufficient. For intensive use of this indicator will not be enough - you should look for kits with a battery capacity of 2 ÷ 3 Ah.

Battery performance is directly related to battery types. This issue requires more careful consideration.

• Nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries (Ni-Сd )

Due to their low price, such batteries remain the leaders in mass use in middle-class power tools, despite the fact that they are being replaced by more advanced batteries.

Dignity nickel-cadmium batteries are as follows:

• The already mentioned low manufacturing cost.
• High resistance to negative temperatures of operation and storage.
• The only ones in existence, they are not afraid of an absolutely complete discharge. Nickel-cadmium The battery can be stored in a discharged state - and after that it will fully recover after correct charging.

They have a lot of disadvantages:

• Inability to achieve high specific capacity. The indicator of 2 Ah, at best, will already be the limit.
• Quite a short overall "life" - even high-quality Ni-Cd batteries rarely withstand more than 1000 charge-discharge cycles.
• Such batteries are prone to self-discharge - with infrequent work, you may encounter the fact that a seemingly fully charged battery “sat down” from storage, and does not cope with its task.
• The most important "ailment" of such batteries is the "memory effect". It is unacceptable to charge the battery if it has not fully exhausted its resource. The fact is that when you receive a charge not from "0", the remaining charge level is still perceived by the device as the minimum value. Thus, the capacity of a fully charged battery will spontaneously decrease by the amount of previously unused potential. It is required in one way or another to completely discharge the battery (for example, by connecting a light bulb or a flashlight that is often included in the set of a screwdriver), and only then insert it into the charger. This can be extremely inconvenient, especially in situations when it seems that the power of the tool is already beginning to be insufficient, and "hands reach out" to put the battery on charge.
• Incorrect disposal of waste nickel-cadmium batteries can harm the environment.

Nevertheless , nickel-cadmium Accumulators are considered loyal "workhorses", and are most often installed on household class models. In such operating conditions, their qualities will be quite sufficient.

• Nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH )

Nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries are an attempt by battery developers to get rid of the main disadvantages of Ni-Cd. But to say with full responsibility that this is a successful step is still impossible.

The advantages of such batteries:

• Their production and disposal are environmentally friendly.
• High charge capacity, which can easily reach 3 Ah. And this is coupled with the more compact dimensions of the battery itself. Accordingly, the power density is also higher.
• The negative effect of memory is no longer so significant, oneako, it was not possible to completely get rid of it.

Negative sides of such batteries:

• Their price is significantly higher than that of nickel-cadmium.
• Short duration of "active life" - the number of recharge cycles rarely exceeds 500.
• Such batteries are characterized by a high level of self-discharge - the drop can reach up to 10% in the first day of storage after a full charge.
• Battery performance is dramatically reduced when working in subzero temperatures.
• It is unacceptable to store such batteries in a completely discharged state.

In short, the high price for such batteries looks unjustified. Better to purchase or a cheaper running option - nickel-cadmium, or do not be stingy and choose a screwdriver with lithium-ion batteries.

By the way, nickel metal hydride batteries have not received much development, and on sale tool sets with them are quite rare - due to the low demand for them.

• Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries (Li—Ion)

These are the most modern and, accordingly, perfect batteries for stand-alone power tools.

The advantages of such batteries are as follows:

• The memory effect is practically absent, that is, the battery can be recharged at any degree of its discharge.
• Among all other batteries, lithium-ion has the maximum charge capacity and power density.
• The charging speed is the fastest.
• But the self-discharge effect is very weak. It is considered a norm that a high-quality lithium battery can lose no more than 20% of its charge during a year of storage under normal conditions.
• The active life, the permissible number of charging cycles of such a battery three times, or even more, exceeds similar indicators nickel-cadmium.

There are also several disadvantages:

• The high cost is a rather conditional drawback, since high performance indicators justify this.
• The operating temperature range of lithium-ion batteries is wide enough, and they can be used in frosty conditions (although they lose some in their characteristics). But they will not perceive charging at negative temperatures.
• Complete discharge of the battery is strictly unacceptable - it will not be charged from "zero". Manufacturers take this disadvantage into account and equip their products with special built-in electronic circuits that will not allow a full discharge. In addition, very widespread The trend is to equip batteries with charge level indicators - this makes it easier to visually inspect them.

When choosing the right model, it is best to purchase a kit that includes two batteries. So you can ensure the continuity of large-scale work - while one battery is on the screwdriver, the second gets charged. However, when using Ni-Cd batteries, you should always keep in mind the need to completely discharge them, so as not to cause a "memory effect".

Very often, in the technical documentation of the product, the manufacturer indicates the average duration of charging the batteries - the shorter it is, the more convenient the tool will be to use.

Well, for those users who do not want to mess with batteries, and who are not afraid of the power cord stretching from the tool, it remains to be advised to purchase a network model.

The performance of the tool does not suffer from this, but the convenience, of course, somewhat smaller... When choosing, it remains to pay attention only to the length of the cord - so that it is enough for the specific conditions of the intended operation.

Electromechanical qualities of a screwdriver

• A few words about the drive. Most models in the lower price range use the old and proven brush collector circuit. Such engines are quite reliable, but still not without drawbacks. And the main one is significant frictional forces at the point of contact of the brushes to the collector lamellas. Naturally, this is accompanied by a significant release of thermal energy, and the drive heats up quickly enough. In addition, sparking of the brushes on the collector is not excluded, especially if you have to work in conditions of high air humidity.

The electronically controlled brushless motor is devoid of all these disadvantages. The absence of an additional friction area leads to a sharp increase in the productivity of the tool. So. The tests carried out on similar models with completely identical batteries in terms of characteristics showed that a screwdriver with a brushless motor performed almost three times more work than with a collector motor.

Some manufacturers (for example, DeWalt) decided to get rid of the motor housing as well - all of its components are located directly in the screwdriver's housing. And this is not a trifle at all - there was a significant gain in the total mass of the instrument, which became much more convenient to work with.

So, if there is a choice between a conventional and a brushless drive, it would be wiser to decide in favor of the latter. True, this is reflected in the price of the instrument.

• When choosing, it is imperative to clarify what materials the screwdriver gearbox is made of. This mechanical assembly bears the greatest stress, and its quality will determine the functionality and overall life span of the entire tool.

This is not to say that plastic gears are of poor quality, but still their resource is less than that of solid metal gears. And the deformation of even one tooth on any of the gears entails jamming or complete destruction of the entire kinematic diagram of the gearbox. So it's better to make a choice in favor of metal ones.

• The characteristics of the rotation speed of the working spindle - they are always indicated in the product passport. Chasing too high rates, probably, does not make sense - to perform installation and dismantling operations with fasteners with an excess of 500 rpm is enough, and for drilling wood or metal - about 1200 ÷ 1500 rpm. Higher speeds are inherent in a professional tool for performing specific operations, and are unlikely to be in demand at the household level.

Adjustment of rotation speed from scratch to the maximum is produced by changing the pressure on the trigger (key). For a more comfortable performance of basic operations, you should choose a screwdriver that has the ability to switch the gearbox to high and low speeds. Usually the switch is located on top of the case.

• Maximum torque is an important characteristic that will envy the functionality of a screwdriver.

So, for work only with small fasteners, 10 Nm is enough, but it will rather be an electric screwdriver. In order for the screwdriver to perform simple drilling operations, it is better to select a model with a maximum force of at least 25 Nm. Respectively. in the case when more is expected from the tool - for example, drilling wood with crowns of large diameter or metal, choose a screw rt with a crushing torque of 36 Nm and more.

For many consumers, the torque values ​​expressed in newton meters... They can say little. Therefore, in the technical documentation of screwdrivers, the maximum diameters of the drills are usually indicated additionally, separately - for processing metal and wood. This will make it much easier to make the choice.

• Adjustment of the torque (tightening torque) - is available on almost all screwdrivers. As a rule, this is a rotating ring with a scale applied - from the minimum value to the maximum value used for drilling.

When the set force is exceeded, a jib or slip clutch is triggered, and excessive torque is not transmitted to the fastener.

The numbers on the scale show only the ordinal number of a specific switch position as the tightening torque increases, but they have nothing to do (as some inexperienced users mistakenly believe) with the diameters of the fasteners. The drill symbol indicates the maximum torque required to complete the drilling.

• There is a switch for the direction of rotation on all, probably, models - without it, the screw rt just cease to be. Usually located above the trigger. In some miniature screwdrivers (like a cordless screwdriver) two different keys can be provided - for forward and reverse rotation of the spindle.

Chuck type

Most modern screwdrivers are equipped with keyless chucks for easy bit or drill changes.

Keyless chucks can be single or double sleeve.

In a double-sleeve chuck, when installing and removing the working tool, the lower sleeve is held by hand, and the upper sleeve is tightened or, conversely, released. It is even easier to work with a single-foot one - the whole operation is performed with the movement of one hand. True, in this case, the screwdriver itself must be equipped with a spindle lock function. Such blocking can be automatic, triggered when rotation stops, or forced (there is a special button).

By the way, when choosing a screwdriver, it is imperative to clarify whether the tool has the option of forced braking of the spindle - when the trigger is released, the rotation should stop immediately. Almost all modern tools are equipped with such a function, but if you still come across an outdated model, the cartridge of which continues to rotate by inertia after the power is turned off, you should not purchase it, since it will cause a lot of inconvenience in work.

Cam chucks, which require a special wrench to tighten, are rarely used with screwdrivers. The key tends to disappear somewhere forever in the course of work, and the process of replacing the drill requires a lot of time and additional effort. Nevertheless, many craftsmen include such a chuck in their kit, since sometimes the tightening force of the sleeve chuck may not be enough for drilling requiring significant efforts.

If the choice is made with the expectation of the minimum dimensions of the screwdriver and with its predominant use for screwing fasteners, then you can purchase a model without a chuck at all - with an adapter for a ¼ inch hexagon.

In this case, if you need to make any small drilling operations, you can use a small chuck with an adapted hex shank.

Additional criteria for choosing a screwdriver

Many models of modern screwdrivers are equipped with additional useful functions.

• In addition to the rotational force, an impact force on the tool holder can also be provided. This allows holes to be drilled in some building materials. These screwdrivers have a switch for normal and impact modes. It can be located either on the tightening torque switching ring or separately.

Many hammer screwdrivers come with an optional removable side handle to emphasize the forward drilling force.

By purchasing a similar screw rt, It should still be quite realistic to imagine that he can cope with a brick wall or made of some kind of lightweight concrete (gas silicate). If you need to drill holes in reinforced concrete structures, for example, in the walls or ceiling of a panel house, then it is better to have a perforator for such operations.

• A great help in the work can be the presence of a pulsed mode of operation of the tool - by analogy with impact wrenches. This allows you to deal with sour threaded connections or precisely mark the beginning of the drill entry into dense material.

The switching on of the pulse mode can be on the torque adjustment ring, or it can be performed in the form of a separate button, which is pressed as needed.

• Additional convenience during work will be the presence of built-in backlight. The LED "flashlight" can be positioned coaxially with the body, under the cartridge. However, as practice shows, this is not always convenient - the cartridge itself can shade the area of ​​work.

Another location of the flashlight is at the bottom of the pistol grip. The stream of light is directed in this case so that it completely illuminates the working area from below.

The convenience of a particular lighting scheme can be appreciated when choosing a tool.

• The most important selection criterion is the mass, the balance of the instrument, the convenience of its location in the palm of your hand. If work is expected at height, then more attention should be paid to lightweight compact models. And in T For frequent drilling operations, the weight of the tool even becomes a certain help in the work.

But in any case, when assessing the "throttle response" of a screwdriver in the store, you should evaluate the location of the center of gravity of the tool - displacement forward or backward gives quick fatigue of the hand.

Experienced craftsmen advise to evaluate the place of transition from the handle to the trigger - it should be with a smooth transition at an obtuse angle. A rectangular or acute-angled transition will lead to quick fatigue of the middle finger during large-scale work, and can even cause the formation of a callus on it.

• The equipment of the delivery set must be assessed.

- The set must include a charger with a power cord. Modern "chargers" are a well-thought-out electronic circuit that will not allow the battery to overheat, and will automatically turn off when the upper charging limit is reached.

As noted above, you should not purchase a screwdriver with only one battery. - this is extremely inconvenient to work with.

- The kit may include a flashlight - as additional lighting during work or as a device for the necessary complete discharge nickel-cadmium batteries.

- Often, screwdrivers are equipped with special belts or even holster covers for the convenience of placing the tool on the master's belt when working at height.

- To included bits and drills m Many professionals are very skeptical, preferring to purchase the required types separately. However, leading manufacturers equip their kits with equipment of a fairly high level. True, the specification is not always sufficient, and the need for an additional purchase often arises.

- Professional-grade screwdrivers can be additionally equipped with replaceable gear units. Example - the model " FESTOOL C15» .

In addition to the adapter for hexagonal bits, a keyless chuck can be installed on the tool. In addition, the kit includes a geared nozzle that allows drilling and tightening fasteners at an angle of 90 °. Yet it is a replaceable nozzle - this is an eccentric that transfers rotation to a drill or bits with an offset from the axis of the screwdriver. A very convenient function for working in a corner, where the body of a conventional tool does not allow for perpendicular force application.

True, the price for such kits is very high.

Brands you can trust

An important selection criterion should always be the manufacturing company and availability in a particular region. service of this brand. For example, the dynamically developing European company KRÜGER.

Prices and range of KRÜGER screwdrivers

The German brand KRÜGER offers three models of screwdrivers: 12, 18 and 21 V. KRUGER tools are increased in power, equipped with various functions and are supplied with a rich package. The 12 and 18 V units work for drilling / tightening, the 21 V drill is also equipped with an impact mode.

Professional cordless screwdrivers Kruger (https://shurupovert.krugerpro.ru) show excellent technical characteristics. A large capacity lithium-ion battery is installed inside, which allows the tool to be used for a long time. The drill-screwdriver provides illumination of the working area, so it can be used in the dark or in places with poor lighting.

With the help of the tool, not only holes are drilled, but also fasteners are screwed or unscrewed. The Kruger cordless drill comes with a set of 13 bits and 7 drills, as well as a charger that charges the screwdriver in just one hour. The reversing function allows you to quickly reach the stuck drill.

It is a compact and lightweight tool that every craftsman should have in his arsenal. Depending on the modification, prices for Kruger screwdrivers vary in the range of 4000-8000 rubles.

• Without any doubt you can purchase Makita screwdrivers - this company has always been a leader in the production of power tools.

• Bosch offers a wide range of products, from inexpensive household tools to professional tools. Regardless of the class of screwdrivers, all of them are of the highest quality and reliability.
• AEG's tool cannot be called cheap, but it fully justifies the money invested in it.

• DeWalt brand power tools are always distinguished by the most innovative developments in this field.

• Screwdrivers "Metabo", as a rule, are saturated with electronics, including regulating and the amount of torque.

• Hilti brand tools offer high functionality, but still their price looks unreasonably high, despite the tempting manufacturer's warranty obligations.
• The affordable screwdrivers "Hitachi", "Sparky", "Skil" are in wide demand and good reviews are received.

• Among domestic manufacturers, it is quite possible to include Interskol, Caliber, and Zubr in this row. Perhaps, in certain positions, they lose to the novelties of the world's leading manufacturers, but in terms of reliability, service availability and price level, they are a very attractive choice.

But to acquire a "pig in a poke", under an unknown delusion, most often made in China, is, of course, a "lottery". It is quite possible that such a screwdriver will serve a lot, and will fully cope with the tasks assigned to it. However, in the event of a failure, there is no need to count on any technical support or warranty. And with spare parts for self-repair, big problems can arise.

And at the end of the publication - a very voluminous and informative video lecture on choosing the optimal screwdriver.

Video: the right approach to choosing screwdriver

Reading 7 min. Published 18.11.2018

In the building tools store, you can find a huge number of different devices that make finishing work easier. For example, a screwdriver and a drill look quite similar in appearance, so many people believe that they are designed to perform the same function. Many craftsmen even deliberately use a screwdriver to drill holes. But in fact, these two tools have significant differences.

Definition

To find the differences between a drill and a screwdriver, you need to consider them in detail. These tools have external similarities, but they also have a huge number of structural and functional differences. The working principle is also different. In the article we will figure out what is the difference between a screwdriver and a drill.

Drill

A drill is a hand-held electrical device made in the shape of a pistol.

It is used for drilling holes in workpieces made of wood, metal, brick, plastic or concrete (reinforced concrete structures).

Most often, the drill is used during construction work or renovation of premises in an industrial or home environment.

Modern instrument models have additional functionality. For example, with their help, you can grind the surface, use it as a grinder or a construction mixer.

The drill design consists of the following elements:

1. Body made of plastic or aluminum with rubberized handle and additional handle;
2. Collector motor with rotor, starter, armature and brushes;
3. Keyless chuck (used to hold the bit);
4. Start button that locks in a certain position during long-term work;
5. Speed ​​control knob (it should be adjusted in accordance with the material being processed);
6. Power cord for plugging into an outlet;
7. Metal stop (made in the form of a rod, it is necessary to control the depth of the holes);
8. LED lighting for precision.

Before starting the tasks, set the depth gauge to the desired position and adjust the speed. This is done depending on the structure of the material (the harder the workpiece, the less revolutions are required).

Then you need to take the tool by the handle and press the start button. Be sure to direct the nozzle along the same axis that should be at the hole in the material. Changing the angle is prohibited. From the spindle, the torsion is transmitted to the gearbox, which allows the drill to enter the prepared surface. Most drills have a fairly high speed, so you should do all work carefully.

Screwdriver

A screwdriver is a hand tool made in the form of a pistol.

It is designed for loosening or tightening screws, screws, self-tapping screws, as well as other hardware with a thread with hexagonal or slotted heads.

It is often used at home and at work. With the help of a screwdriver, it is convenient to mount or dismantle furniture, roofing, fences.

If a special nozzle is included with the tool, then it is also used for grinding surfaces and drilling holes, thereby the manufacturer has combined the drill and screwdriver in one tool. The screwdriver can be powered by an outlet or battery. Some models operate on compressed air (pneumatics). The design of the tool consists of a body, a fastener, electrical and mechanical parts, as well as a protection and adjustment system.

Components of the screwdriver design:

1. Body made of metal or plastic with a rubberized handle;
2. Electric (or gas) engine that turns the nozzles;
3. Planetary gearbox (transfers from the motor to the spindle with a clamp);
4. Adjustment clutch, which is connected to the chuck;
5. Clamp chuck (holds the attachment in place);
6. Electronic control unit (there is a reverse switch and a start button on it);
7. Battery or power cord.

For the tool to function, it is necessary to insert and fix a bit with a hex shank into the chuck. Also, using the coupling, the tightening torque is set (depending on the model, there may be 8-5 positions). When the start button is pressed, the motor is turned on, which, with the help of a planetary gear, starts to rotate the spindle and the chuck with the bit. The more force is applied, the higher the speed rises.

After the self-tapping screw is completely screwed into the surface, the resistance increases significantly. This will cause the ratchet to slip and stop the transmission. If it is necessary to unscrew the self-tapping screw, then the reverse comes into operation. It starts the nozzles in the opposite direction.

To work with a screwdriver, you do not need to adhere to any special safety rules. You just need to be careful and careful when working with the attachments.

Comparison

A comparative analysis should be carried out to find the differences between the instruments. You can evaluate the characteristics of devices and the types of work that can be performed using them. Only then will the master be able to determine which tool is best for him.

According to technical characteristics

Each device has individual characteristics. More expensive models have high power, and budget options are often not able to drill holes of sufficient depth. But the tools also have common characteristics that are inherent in most popular models.

Technical characteristics of devices:

• Screwdriver. Models for private use most often have a torque of 16 Nm and a rotation speed of 600 rpm. Professional tools boast 130 Nm and 1300 rpm. There are several types of batteries. Nickel cadmium can be charged and discharged fully up to a thousand times. Lithium-ion does not have a memory factor, so it can be easily recharged at any time. There is also a nickel-metal-hybrid battery. Its capacity is enough for 500 full charges, but using the tool at low temperatures will not work. Also, the screwdriver can have two types of chuck: key (or cam) and keyless, with one or two couplings.
• Drill. Classic instruments have a power of 0.6 kW, as well as the ability to adjust the speed. The device has a chuck, as well as a wheel for setting the number of revolutions and a mode switch. Electronic controls and an accessory holder are often present as well. To protect the mechanism from breakage and unscrewing the screws, there is a reverse. Its location allows you to use the function with the finger of your working hand.

This information indicates that the speed of the drill is much higher than that of a screwdriver. Consequently, with its help, you can quickly complete large volumes of work.

By type of work and purpose

With the help of a drill and a screwdriver, tasks of a different plan are performed. Their differences are as follows:

Important! To perform some types of work, it is enough to use one of the tools. However, if there is no experience in the construction industry, it is better to stock up on all the devices, otherwise the end result will be disappointing.

A drill and a screwdriver have physical similarities, but their design and functionality are different. If the main task that a person plans to perform after purchasing a tool is tightening self-tapping screws, then you just need to choose a screwdriver. If he needs a tool as a device for drilling holes, then it would be better to opt for a drill.