Rennie Tool Company’s Guide to Impact Driver Bits
Posted by Connor James on
With power tools, it’s essential that you have the right accessories. These accessories play a huge role in maximising efficiency and effectiveness, and impact driver drill bits are no exception. Impact driver bits are a staple in many toolboxes due to their ability to deliver high torque and increased speed. That said, unlocking the full potential of an impact driver lies in the selection of the right tool bits. For this reason, we’ve put together this handy guide to help tradespeople and DIYers navigate impact driver bits.
Do I Need Impact Driver Bits?
In short, yes, you will likely need impact driver bits. This is especially true if you regularly use an impact driver. Impact driver bits are designed to withstand the high torque and rapid rotational forces of impact drivers, which sets them apart from traditional drill bits. This is achieved via a unique construction, which allows them to absorb the intense vibrations generated during operation, guaranteeing durability and longevity.
Working with tough materials, such as metal or hardwood, becomes a breeze with impact driver bits. This is because they offer a secure grip and reduce the risk of stripping or camming out, which can be a problem for standard bits when used with impact drivers.
Are Impact Driver Bits Different?
Yes, impact driver bits are different from conventional bits in the sense that they are designed and constructed differently. They tend to be crafted from high-quality, impact-rated steel, which is able to withstand the intense forces generated by impact drivers. What’s more, the bits are usually longer and more robust, featuring a unique torsion zone that flexes under stress to reduce the risk of breakage.
Similarly, the tips of impact driver bits are specially built to enhance grip and prevent slipping, resulting in a secure engagement with the fastener. Therefore, if you regularly use impact drivers, these specially designed tool bits are essential to optimise performance and longevity.
Can I Use Impact Driver Bits in a Drill?
Although impact driver bits are crafted specifically to be used with impact drivers, they can, in fact, be used with standard drills. That said, it’s important to understand that using impact driver bits in a conventional drill may not leverage their unique features. In order to make impact driver bits resilient to the forces of impact driving, they’re equipped with a torsion zone and reinforced design; however, these features may not be as crucial in a drill.
If you’re someone who frequently switches between impact drivers and drills, it may be worth investing in impact driver bits over traditional drill bits. This is because they offer a reliable performance across both tools, meaning efficiency and convenience are guaranteed. Meanwhile, when being used with impact drivers, these bits are able to truly shine and deliver their maximum benefits.
Can I Use Drill Bits in Impact Drivers?
So, impact driver bits can be used in drills; however, the reverse isn’t always true. Using standard drill bits in an impact driver can lead to premature wear and breakage as a result of the unique stresses generated by the impact mechanism. Typically speaking, drill bits aren’t designed to withstand the high torque and rapid impact linked to impact drivers.
When using an impact driver, it’s a good idea to invest in impact-rated drill bits. These are constructed with the required durability and strength for impact driving, allowing for reliable performance and extended tool life.
How to Get Broken Drill Bits Out of Impact Drivers
Unfortunately, machining isn’t always a smooth process, and accidents occur. While these accidents are sometimes unavoidable, it’s vital that they’re handled in a safe manner. When a broken drill bit gets stuck in an impact driver, it can be really frustrating, but it’s important to remain calm and carry out the following steps to resolve the issue:
- Safety first – Before attempting any removal, make sure the impact driver is unplugged or the battery is removed to prevent accidental activation.
- Examine the situation – Assess the extent of the breakage and identify any protruding parts of the broken bit. This will help you approach the removal of the remnants.
- Use needle-nose pliers – If a portion of the broken bit is protruding, gently grasp it with needle-nose pliers and attempt to twist it anticlockwise to unscrew it from the chuck.
- Tap and rotate – Use a small hammer to tap the chuck gently if the broken bit is flush with the chuck. Try to rotate the chuck while tapping to loosen the grip on the broken bit.
- Drill out the remnants – Should the above steps not work, you might need to drill out the remaining bit. You should select a drill that’s slightly smaller than the broken one and carefully drill into the centre of the broken piece. This might loosen the grip and allow you to extract the remnants.
- Use screw extractors – Screw extractors are specialised tools designed for removing broken or stripped screws and bits. You’ll need to choose an appropriately sized screw extractor, insert it into the drilled hole, and turn it anticlockwise to remove the broken bit.
- Apply heat – For stubborn broken bits, applying heat can be effective. Use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm the chuck slightly, and be careful not to overheat and damage the impact driver.
- Seek professional assistance – If all else fails, it’s time to consult a professional technician or the manufacturer.
Shop Impact Driver Bits at Rennie Tool Company
So, it’s clear that impact driver bits are a staple of many toolboxes. You can shop our range of impact driver bits here and kit out your toolbox to handle all manner of machining circumstances.