Type of drill to get?

[pc1966]

My old ones were like that but recent ones are tightened by hex-wrench, which is not as good, imho.

You could change the bolts for hex-head ones, though often Alla bolts are in higher tensile steel (10.9 or 12.9, not the common 8.8)

Or get a set like this:

Magnusson 1/2" Drive Hex Bit Socket Rail 6 Pieces - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Precision-ground hardened tool-grade chrome vanadium steel for extra strength and durability. Chamfered lead-in sockets for easy placement onto drive tools and fasteners. Supplied on a steel rail for easy storage. FREE next day delivery available, free collection in...

www.screwfix.com

 

[loz2754]

Are you thinking of a cone/step drill, or a hole punch?

The cone/step drills are used just like a drill but as you push further in it gets larger.

The eye-wateringly expensive Milwaukee knockout punch kit is an amazing tool for anyone punching a lot of holes.

 

[telectrix]

The eye-wateringly expensive Milwaukee knockout punch kit is an amazing tool for anyone punching a lot of holes.

there's a simile for that, but it would get me a ban.

 

[pc1966]

Just took a look at the M18HKP-501CA kit for the princely sum of £1,079 and it looks really smart.

Alas, I don't get as much opportunity to punch holes as I might like, so my money is better spent elsewhere. On beer, for example, to cry in to...

 

[pirate]

Thanks @pc1966, that looks like a good set of hex sockets. I do have hex bits, but then you have to put them in an adaptor for a socket, which makes it a bit unwieldy, a bit wobbly, and of course increases the height when you want to go low profile. However, I'll probably get that set anyway.
I must have dozens of "sets" of assorted bits, sockets, security bits...I really must stop buying stuff!
(Clearly...I won't!)

 

[rewireIT]

Here is a hole punch in parts, dashed line where the metal sheet would be:
View attachment 109221
View attachment 109222

Ahhh now it makes sense. Milwaukee do a version that goes in a cordless device that does the punching for you nut knowing them it'll be about 300 quid. EDIT 300 quid? Jesus H Christo it's £1100.

So I'm presuming you just tighten the nut and it cuts through?

 

[oscar21]

I bought a hole punch years ago for cutting a tap sized hole into a stainless steel sink, I lent it a plumber the other year who was mesmerised by it and said it was the best thing he has ever used, never really thought about them for 20 or 25mm holes, I just use a hole saw or step cutter.

As for using impacts for joist drilling, why would you not use a cordless angle drill? perfect tool for the job.

 

[loz2754]

Using an impact for joist drilling is best when using the Bosch blue self pulling spade bits.
It's noisy yes, but almost effortless.

 

[nicebutdim]

Using an impact for joist drilling is best when using the Bosch blue self pulling spade bits.
It's noisy yes, but almost effortless.

Or wood beaver style bits.

I quite fancy an angle impact driver as my angle drill just about keeps up with joists.

 

[rewireIT]

Using an impact for joist drilling is best when using the Bosch blue self pulling spade bits.
It's noisy yes, but almost effortless.

Those Bosch bits are incredible. Treat timber like butter

 

[oscar21]

Using an impact for joist drilling is best when using the Bosch blue self pulling spade bits.
It's noisy yes, but almost effortless.

I've tried those bosch bits but once the threaded bit goes blunt on the end (which is quite quick) the bit is useless. I use the Dewalt extreme bits which cut just as quick but can be re-sharpened a good few times if you have a bench grinder in the van.

 

[littlespark]

I have the Bosch screw in flat bits too… Used them with a brand new dewalt combi…. 7 holes, and the drill went up in a puff of smoke.
Got a replacement, no quibble.


Reading back the thread, there was a few suggestions for an impact…. Don’t!
Then you won’t be tempted to use it for tightening up mcb terminals!

 

[nicebutdim]

I've tried those bosch bits but once the threaded bit goes blunt on the end (which is quite quick) the bit is useless. I use the Dewalt extreme bits which cut just as quick but can be re-sharpened a good few times if you have a bench grinder in the van.

Bought a set of those Dewalt extreme flat bits for about £11 in a Toolstation offer. Can't fault them as spade bits go.

 

[pirate]

I like that we can call them that, without fear of reprimand!

 

[littlespark]

I like that we can call them that, without fear of reprimand!

Spade?

How do you confuse a plumber?

Show him three spades and tell him to take his pick.