Right angle drill attachments are adapters that allow you to connect drill bits perpendicular to the drill for tighter access in corners and other constrained spaces. These handy accessories can save time and frustration when drilling and driving screws in awkward areas that a standard drill can’t easily reach. But do they really work as advertised? Let’s take a closer look at how right angle drill attachments function and what kinds of jobs they excel at.
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What are right angle drill attachments?
A right angle drill attachment, also sometimes called a right angle attachment or right angle adapter, is a device that connects to your electric or cordless drill to allow the drill bit to turn at a 90 degree angle from the drill body. This gives you the ability to drill horizontally into tight spaces that would be difficult or impossible to access with just the drill by itself.
Right angle attachments come in a few different styles. Some are gear-driven, using planetary gears to transfer the torque from the drill to the angled drill chuck. Others use flexible shafts or u-joints to accomplish the same thing. In both cases, the attachment connects into your drill’s chuck at one end, while a chuck at the other end holds the drill bit and allows it to spin.
The big benefit of these accessories is that they give you the ability to drill in very narrow, constrained areas where you only have a few inches of clearance. Some common examples include:
- Drilling horizontally into wall studs when running wiring or plumbing pipes.
- Installing cabinets by drilling screw pockets into the wall framing or floor.
- Drilling pocket holes in tight corners.
- Installing hard-to-reach deck screws.
- Assembling furniture where the parts connect at 90 degree angles.
Without a right angle attachment, these types of jobs would be extremely difficult. You’d have to either remove more material to open up space for a standard drill, or else struggle to twist your wrist and body into uncomfortable positions to try to aim the drill correctly. The right angle adapter makes the drill bit placement very simple by letting you keep the drill body straight while the bit angles off to the side.
Do they really work well?
Right angle drill attachments certainly aren’t flawless, but when used properly for appropriate applications they can be extremely handy accessories for your toolbox. Here are some key factors to consider about how well they work:
- Angle accuracy – Good quality right angle adapters maintain a precise 90 degree angle between the drill and drill bit. Poorly made ones may be slightly off, making the alignment unpredictable.
- Chuck gripping strength – The chuck that holds the drill bit needs to grip it securely without slipping. Low quality adapters sometimes don’t grasp bits very tightly.
- Torque transfer efficiency – There is some power loss as the torque gets transferred through the gears/shafts. Higher end adapters are very efficient, while cheaper ones sap more torque.
- Durability – Withstands wear and tear over time without failing. Plastic parts are more prone to breaking than metal.
- Fit in tight spaces – Compact size lets it access confined areas. Bulkier adapters limit the usable spaces.
Higher priced right angle adapters generally outperform cheaper bargain models in these areas. But there are some very decent mid-range options that offer good functionality for most DIYers without breaking the bank.
Recommended right angle drill attachments
Here are some top rated right angle drill attachments to consider in 2023:
| Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dewalt | DWARA60 | $55 |
| Milwaukee | 48-03-1122 | $40 |
| Bosch | RA1165 | $55 |
| Makita | 197753-5 | $36 |
These are high quality, durable right angle drill adapters from some of the top power tool brands. While more expensive than generic hardware store models, they are worth the extra cost for demanding use. Paying a little more means you’ll get better angle accuracy, torque transfer, bit gripping, and longevity out of the attachment.
Tips for using right angle drill attachments
Here are some handy tips to get the most out of your right angle drill adapter:
- Use sharp, high quality drill bits. Dull bits combined with the angle attachment won’t cut very effectively.
- Apply firm pressure when drilling to keep the bit steady. The angled position can make the drill want to walk if uncontrolled.
- Let the drill do the work – don’t force it. Go at an appropriate speed and let the bit grind its way through.
- Use lower gear ranges for optimal torque when drilling larger holes or hard materials like concrete.
- Keep the attachment lubricated for smooth operation.
- Secure small workpieces in a vise or clamp for easier, safer drilling.
- Start holes perpendicular whenever possible before angling.
- Apply light feed pressure rather than pushing too hard when driving screws.
A little practice goes a long way in learning to control the angled drill accurately. But the right techniques will have you drilling perfect pockets and driving screws in no time.
Potential downsides to right angle drill attachments
While very handy in certain situations, right angle adapters aren’t necessarily the best choice for every job. Here are a few potential downsides to be aware of:
- Reduced torque – There is some torque loss going through the gears/shafts. May not work great for large bits in very hard material.
- Fixed 90 degree angle – You can’t adjust the angle, so they only work for true right angle applications.
- Bulkier size – Adds length which can limit use in the tightest spaces.
- Potential runout – Flexible shaft adapters may have bit runout if not chucked tightly.
- Higher cost – Right angle adapters are pricier than standard drill chucks.
For some situations, such as drilling a large hole where maximum torque is needed, a standard drill chuck may still be the better choice. But for most light duty jobs in awkward spots, the right angle adapter can save huge hassles.
FAQs
Can I use a right angle drill adapter in an impact driver?
You can use an impact-rated right angle adapter in an impact driver, but not all adapters are built rugged enough for impact use. Adapters made entirely of metal with all-metal gears will withstand impact forces the best.
What size right angle drill adapter do I need?
Check that the input chuck matches the chuck size on your drill, whether 3/8″, 1/2″ or other size. The output chuck should accept the shank sizes of the drill bits you plan to use.
How much torque can right angle adapters handle?
It depends on the quality of the gears/shafts and construction. Top adapters can transfer up to around 50 ft-lbs of torque, which is ample for most DIY tasks. Lower quality ones may only be rated for 15-20 ft-lbs.
Can I use a right angle drill adapter to drive screws?
Yes, many right angle adapters will work with driver bits for installing and removing screws in tight spaces. Just be sure to get one sturdy enough for impact if using with an impact driver.
Should I get a gear or flexible shaft right angle adapter?
Gear models hold up to repeated heavy-duty use better. Flexible shaft adapters are good for occasional light tasks but not as durable. Gear adapters also minimize potential runout.
Conclusion
Right angle drill attachments certainly aren’t a tool that every DIYer needs. But if you’ve ever struggled to drill or drive screws in an impossibly tight corner, they can definitely save huge headaches. When chosen and used properly, right angle adapters provide a very effective solution for gaining access in constricted spaces and awkward angles.
Look for top brands and well-made models to get the best results. And get to know the ins and outs of your new adapter – both its handy capabilities for previously inaccessible applications as well as potential limitations – through practice on scrap before relying on it for important jobs. Used strategically when the situation calls for it, right angle drill attachments can be an invaluable addition to your DIY arsenal.