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Editorial illustration: unbranded cordless drill beside a detached battery and drill bits.

How to Drill a Large Hole in Wood Without Tear-Out

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Large holes are where ordinary twist bits start to struggle. A hole saw, Forstner bit, spade bit, or auger can cut a clean opening, but each behaves differently—and any of them can tear out the… 

AI-generated editorial illustration of hammer drill

How to Use a Hammer Drill Without Overheating the Bit

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A hammer drill can make quick work of brick and concrete, but leaning on it harder is not the way to keep the bit cool. Friction builds when the cutting edges stop clearing dust, the… 

AI-generated editorial illustration of wall anchors

How to Choose Between Plastic, Metal, and Toggle Wall Anchors

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The right wall anchor depends on the wall, the load, and how often the fastener may be disturbed. Plastic expansion anchors are inexpensive and useful for light loads. Metal expansion anchors generally grip more firmly… 

AI-generated editorial illustration of spade drill bits

Best Flat Wood Bits for Boring Utility Holes in Studs

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Flat wood bits, also called spade bits, are a quick, inexpensive way to bore utility holes through studs for cable, pipe and other services. They cut faster than many general-purpose bits, but they are not… 

Editorial illustration: cordless impact driver beside driver bits and screws.

Impact Driver vs Drill for Removing Deck Screws

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Removing deck screws is one of the jobs where an impact driver usually earns its place. It delivers short bursts of rotational force that help break loose rusted, overdriven, or partially seized screws without requiring…