Handymen don’t miss out tools that keep their noses high even at awkward working sites. Right angle drill is one those greatly modified tools letting you peep through tight and unreachable corners. All drills may bore holes but won’t let your fatigue recede so much sorting out the task with so versatility.
We appear to filter the ones that aren’t meant for you hand over the one that cares for you.
What is A Right Angle Drill?
It’s all that its name suggests. Having a right-angle drill means having the head or the chuck placed perpendicular to the body of the drill. It is a special means of boring holes and fastening screws at confined spaces and is much used for that.
You won’t get a twist at your hands while cutting corners using them. All it is because they come up with smaller heads fitted 90 degrees with the slender body handle. If that’s what you are looking for, then right angle drill/ driver is the answer.
Best Right Angle Drills
We picked some products to suffice your needs. Let’s see which one is yours.
1. Bosch ADS181-102 18-Volt Right Angle Drill Kit
What put it ahead?
Bosch has targeted the largest ½ inch chuck. With its wide ratcheting chuck, you can think of any drilling or driving application to realize. And the head, residing area of the chuck, is now compact lengthened to fit a maximum range of corner applications.
With some comforting placement of rubber, this 18V drill gives you really low fatigue. The slim body with proportionate and soft gripping drilling and fastening will have more control in your palm.
Just as you go below the 2 fingers wide trigger button, you’ll find the built-in LED to light your workplace up. This ensures you more visibility with reduced shadow effects on the work spot.
You can use any 18V Li-ion battery of Bosch with this drill. Yes, this device is that flexible. But the one that comes with it is of 1.5 Ah capacities. But, that’s enough to produce 150-inch lbs torque. That is simply clear cut 1.4 times the torque of the most of its competitors.
What draw it back?
This is not a two gear drill. The low-speed settings having 0 to 400 RPM range, a common feature in most 18V drills, is not prevalent in it. Yes, the speed varies, but for greater torques this feature is important.
This 7.15 lbs angle drill will come to you without any carrying case. For a man of tools, this is a sure disappointment. Moreover, there’s no clutch.
2. Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Angle Drill, Tool Only
What put it ahead?
Makita has brought about crushing speed with mediocre power through this angle drill of theirs. To tackle every general application of drilling and fastening you’ll find it right beside you. Of course, 1,800 RPM speed and about 121-inch lbs of torque aren’t the max ratings of many in this budget.
This 4 pole motor running angle drill has 3/8 inch chuck. That’s enough width to receive bits for both driving and drilling in usual usages. The chuck’s keyless meaning you do not need the age-old wrenches around you every time install or remove bits.
To encounter close quarters this compact angle drill possesses an even compact 3.5-inch angle head. Such head height along with the lateral handle placed perpendicular to the handle just beside the chuck intensifies the grip and control over the tool.
The 4 lbs drill lets you continue your tasks easy and tire you less with simple yet ergonomic design. With that adds up its efficient power management system. From overload through over discharge to overheat, all three kinds of battery and charging issues are handled insightfully.
The tool comes to a standstill as the battery lows down extending the lifespan of the battery. Monitoring battery temperature as well as communicating between the battery and the tool, the operation of the tool is determined to avoid overloading and heating issues.
What draw it back?
The chuck is keyless but not too roomy. Especially if you have got large hands, this wouldn’t be more than a finger grabber.
This tool doesn’t allow you to have much power control. All you have is the trigger to deal precisely. Take great care while dealing with softer screws.
3. DEWALT DCD740C1 Compact Right Angle Drill Kit
What put it ahead?
Fitting well for numerous applications the 20V Dewalt right angle drill kit comes in the stores with two sets of speeds. Both the ranges kick off at 0 but end at 600 and 2,000 RPM respectively. For a 4-inch angle drill/driver such flexibility is mouthwatering.
Places that you can’t easily reach aren’t places you can’t drill or put a screw in. This multi-grip drilling tool is compact enough to cut quarters. The long slender trigger increases the comfort zone and eases drilling pace control even when the gloves are on.
Fatigue finds no place when such a well-designed machine weighs no more than 3.9lbs. With compact construction, lightweight adds superior charger quality that comes up if you buy the kit. Belts locks are firmly set adjacent to the battery platform to bear all the weight in a hanging position.
Dewalt has got some three years warranty associated with the product. You may also use their provision of a whole year of free service. To lessen your worries they’re keeping 90 days of money back guarantee.
What draw it back?
If you ask about durability know that clutch is plastic made. Plus the torque it delivers has not sufficed many users. Drilling more than one stud requires removal of wood chips.
With this much budget not getting more than one battery is quite disappointing.
4. Milwaukee 2415-21 M12 Cordless Right Angle Drill
What put it ahead?
Milwaukee afforded to pack a 3/8-inch chuck in this kit. Anyone having the slightest drilling knowledge can understand its versatility. The chuck is a single sleeve and ratcheting one provides finer bit grip.
If you work in tight spaces then this 3-3/4-inch headed drill/driver is the one you are longing for long. To assist you actions here comes up the paddle switch with extended structure. This slender-bodied and the ergonomically designed tool are too handy for day to day use.
Control over the device may amaze you by the 11 stages of settings of it. Additionally, the drill mode will allow you working with screws at lower torque to avoid any stripping off. Besides, to add more to efficiency into the work this tool has built-in LEDs to light up the spot.
If you are stuck in the middle of your work and if the low charge of batteries is the cause then worry not. It’s a matter of 30 minutes for the charger that comes along with it. The Li-ion battery pack is included into it and all it comes within a carrying case.
What draw it back?
The angle drill does not come up with more than a battery. Moreover, the clutch lacks its use in practical terms. The control of torque is horrible since you will find much torque even at the lowest level. All you have to do is have some real control over the trigger.
Customers seem to be disappointed with the power it delivers. With half an inch fly bit it is quite upsetting not being able to penetrate soft pine.
5. Makita AD02W Cordless Right Angle Drill Kit
What put it ahead?
With barrel grip handle comes this 12V cordless angle drill kit of Makita. Makita gifts you torque as best as 100-inch pounds within this ergonomically manufactured comfy tool. The ease of the operator is further enhanced by the comfort of rubber enveloped softer grip.
You’ll find paddle switch for triggering. This not only gives you easy operation but also crowns you with extra control over the speed variation of the tool. To be exact, you may stretch its speed to about 800 RPM max. Such a wide range speed device can be used for a yet wider range of application fields including both drilling and fastening.
Even in battery inserted condition, you would not require more than 2.5 lbs weightlifting. So, this 12.25-inch-long drill/driver is not only compact in its design but also is well balanced in all the aspects regarding its construction and specs.
Last but not least: the close quarter action. Angle head of this tool comprising of the 3/8-inch chuck has got a height of 3.5 inches only. This makes the device ready for all tight drilling and screw fastening.
What draw it back?
The gearbox produces much noise. For simple use in the shorter format of tasks, it may not mean much. But as the working period extends, this may turn out to be a hazard to the physique.
You can’t place this Makita product along with the best-rated drills at least for its LED functions. No pre or after-glow is sighted when you use it. For a bit shorter palms, the trigger may seem far. Eventually, the device would turn out to be fatter for you.
6. DEWALT DWD460K Right Angle Stud and Joist Drill
What put it ahead?
This is a professional kit from Dewalt. The toughness of the drill puts it to absolute peak. This rugged tool can offer as much as 11 amps through its powerful motor. Both torque and speed are at its focal point.
It doesn’t matter what material is at your hand. All it takes for you is to select the right speed range from two sets of speed each peaking at 330 and 1300 rpm. You also have the control of torque through the mechanical clutch that it provides.
For having an increased amount of control at the job site Dewalt has managed to incorporate Bind-up control technology. It handles the reactionary torque smartly protecting the drill itself as well as preserving drill control.
Basically, it is a half inch bit capacity device for woodworking. But kicking off from that, Dewalt can provide you 1.5 inches for spade or auger bits, 4-5/8 inches for self-feed bits up to 6 inches capacity for hole saws. Choose what you need.
This joist and stud drill kit package add two-piston side handles, a bail handle and a chuck key holder. Note that all of these will appear stocked-up inside a kit box.
What draw it back?
Along with good power, this drill comes with additional weight. Yeah, that may do your job great if weight isn’t an issue. Not good for simple applications.
7. Ryobi P241 Right Angle Drill
What put it ahead?
Ryobi has stretched this cordless right-angle drill to 13 inches but has not let its weight grow more than 2.13 lbs. Such a long-neck construction would specifically help you when working in congested conditions like fealing with HVAC units or plumbing. Standard drills won’t help you much there.
Keep your hands open. The gratitude is deserved by the magnetic tray at the foot of the tool. It holds both drilling and fastener bits when you are indulged into the work.
With comfort, Ryobi embeds accuracy in your work by installing LEDs below the chuck. Workspaces often get darker when it is a tight place. Built-in LED takes the burden of illumination and pours ease in your work.
Whether it be hole boring or fastener driving, control shouldn’t and mustn’t face any compromise. Ryobi engineers know it better and have placed rubber cushioning on the handle. Even in slippery condition, whether it be environmental or your hand sweat, gripping is not considerably decreased.
What draw it back?
No clutch in this age of cordless drills! Half your control over the motor dies out when you do not find a clutch around the trigger while working. That’s the case here.
A larger trigger would have come to a lot of help. Oher comparable tools bear one, but Ryobi couldn’t compete in that regard.
Buying Guide
Drilling and driving are stapled tasks in lighter formats like DIYs, wall decorations etc. to heavier jobs as in HVAC installations, plumbing etc. You can neither ignore the importance of finding the best right angle drill/driver meeting your needs nor can you accomplish that without knowing how you can do so.
With a view to make that task easy-peasy for you, without any further ado, let’s dig in.
Corded or Cordless?
The growth spurt of technology has dominated this market too. Corded right angle drills have more demands and are on rising. DIYs and regular chores involving shorter working periods do neither need service of the corded nor hanker after its power.
But even best cordless right-angle drills face one complaint consistently: not enough service period. You can’t have as much duty cycle using batteries as in that from the power source; nor can you have that power. Because both add mass to the tool. The choice is yours.
Chuck that suits
You’ll find numerous products in the market all differing on the basis of chuck size. Among the three basic sizes, the 3/8 inched ones are the most versatile ones. They have wide applicability in terms of both working material and toughness.
As a rule of thumb, larger chucks enable the use of larger bits and so ask for more power. Thus, ½ inches chucks differ from ¼ inches ones.
Reduce Fatigue
You become tired when weightlifting is more. Go for the lightest product in the market if you can afford. You may consider weight only after your required power is mitigated. Greater power is good but it adds weight. Best right angle drill/drivers won’t let you lift more than 5 lbs.
Ergonomics
Effective manufacturers shape their products so that they offer the best in a wider range of applications. Soft rubber grips are the most common yet are mostly found in best right angle drills. Longer handles produce better results in tighter encounters.
Dual Speed Settings
All kind of cordless drills posses 2 options of the maximum speed range. Lower speed application provides about 500 RPM and is perfect for conditions when you need higher torque. But higher torque may result snapping of the screws while fastening. The higher speed setting allows rotation as much as 1500 to 2000 RPM at best.
Keep in mind that the bit size has some inverse relation with the speed level.
Clutch Settings
Torque control would probably the most important aspect as far as a control on the tool is concerned. Some products offer appealing features but miss out this one completely. Let this not be your case until you can afford.
Magnetic Tray
The bottom portion of all best right angle drills is dedicated to battery packs. Just above that, some drills place a magnetic platform that keeps screws and bits stuck to it. No one knows better how much this feature comes handy than a drill/driver user.
Work Lights
Tight spaces mostly lack illumination. If you are using a cordless angle drill for want of power source, most likely you are dealing with darkness too. LED lights situated right above or below chuck would help you greatly in those regards.
Comparing other parameters, you should avoid drills that have put work light anywhere below the trigger. It doesn’t matter how below the light is, it’s going to get blocked right when you need it.
Trigger and Other Switch Positions
The trigger should pass right middle or slightly above of the handle where your middle and index fingers rest. Longer paddle switch triggers work the best. It should have the LED control too.
Reverse rotation switch, speed, and clutch setter knobs should not only exist but also be placed so that they neither come under the palm nor get too distant to operate.
Volts and Amp-hours
Often voltage is a direct measure of the power draw of the drills. The 20 V drills are the most powerful ones. But remember 12V drill of one brand may not be equivalent to that of another brand. 18V batteries are too used and may suffice you the best in the budget.
For longer format works, go for more Ah for that’s the capacity of the battery. But along with that get ready to lift more weight since it adds weight too.
Batteries and Chargers
Unless you are buying a bare tool, keep track of the price and accessories you get. New users make a common mistake by comparing bare tools with drill/driver kits. Some packages include only one battery which is ridiculous for any user. Always go for the pack that has two batteries in it since once you are out of charges the other one will be there to continue.
Modern cordless drills come up with fast chargers that enable the users to use their drills within half an hour or even less with a full charge. Try to buy your cordless right-angle drill/driver from the brand that you have equipment of. Because most brands have batteries compatible with all their tools.
Carrying Case
Not all the packs include carrying cases. The solid cases are preferable to carrying bags if the pack has one. Carrying cases are handy in affording a great deal of portability.
If any of the features add more bucks than it facilitates, you may throw that aspect right away.
FAQ:
Why use a right-angle drill when I have a power drill?
Tight spaces create a lot of working hazards when power drill is involved. Especially if you are engaged in plumbing, electric or HVAC works cutting quarters is a staple task. Right angle drills come to great help in those cases. If you can manage a cordless one, you’ll not regret.
What’s the perfect cordless drill’s voltage rating?
It depends on your use. For most DIYs and home works, you may select any rating within 12V to 18V. Light screw driving doesn’t require more than 8 volts. Whereas, heavier works demand even higher voltage and are bulkier too. But cordless right angle drills do not exceed 20 volts.
Is a hole must before screw?
A pilot hole is always recommended before you drive in a screw, especially into the wood. This not only protects the wood from cracking but also guarantees any breaking off of the screw itself.
Try to keep the diameter of the hole comparable to the minor diameter of the screw. For harder woods keep some reasonable clearance.
Conclusion
All drills aren’t comparable to each other, nor can one be picked to be the only best. You have your own budget and confined applications.
Take the best right angle drill buying guide as your mentor and inspect the pros and cons of our cherry-picked items. Surely if you take all the aspects of power, speed and additional features into account none can resist you meeting the drill/driver made for you.
