With numerous drills on the market, it can be difficult to decide which will work best.

If you’re looking for the ideal drill for the job, then look no further. Whether it’s for general use or specific purposes, here we provide our handy guide to buying the perfect drill for your project.

Should I buy a cordless or corded drill?

Cordless drills are usually heavier than their corded counterparts because they require a battery pack. However, bear in mind that what you gain in terms of a lighter machine, you will potentially lose in flexibility - it is highly likely you will need to use an extension lead with a corded drill for most jobs. Therefore, depending on how often and where you will be using the drill, consider these factors before making a commitment.

The main advantage of investing in a cordless drill is you aren’t restricted to cable lengths or lack of available mains sockets. The latest cordless drills also use efficient and fast-charging lithium-ion batteries, meaning they will hold their power for lengthy periods and recharge quickly.

What type of drill do I need?

Depending on the project you are planning, the drill you choose will vary from surface to surface. For example, if you are going to be drilling into wood, plastic or metal then a multiple-speed drill will be ideal. For masonry jobs, then a corded drill with a hammer action and low speed gear will be best.

When selecting a drill, it is a good idea to handle it first to ensure you are comfortable with the grip, weight and design and that it is suitable for you and your requirements – anything too heavy is likely to be difficult to operate and feel cumbersome after continued use.

If you need a new drill, or you are considering updating an older model, we recommend the DeWalt Combi Drill, a great all-rounder suitable for use on a range of materials including wood, steel and masonry and supplied with a 4.0Ah Li-Ion battery.

If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask. Our friendly team are experts on recommending the right tool for the job and will be happy to guide you through finding the ideal drill.

Do I need a screwdriving function on my drill?

The beauty of a drill with a screwdriving function is it makes extremely efficient work of something that can be quite labour intensive if completed manually. If you know you are likely to be doing a lot of work with screws, then a screwdriving drill is a great investment. Choose a drill with variable speeds or torque control that will revolve in both directions so you can drive-in and remove screws as and when required.

At Covers, we supply a wide array of tools to everyone from professional tradespeople and construction workers, to DIYers. If you need any further help, or would like to speak to one of our friendly team about the other services we offer, give us a call on 0800 2100 458, or visit your nearest depot for some in-person advice