For maximum performance, use high speed steel bits for wood or metal drilling. Select drilling mode. Begin drilling at a very low speed to prevent the bit from slipping off the starting point.
Wood Drilling:
- Increase the speed as the drill bit bites into the material.
- When drilling through holes, place a block of wood behind the workpiece to prevent ragged or splintered edges on the back side of the hole.
Metal and Steel Drilling:
- Use a light oil on the drill bit to keep it from overheating. The oil will prolong the life of the bit and increase the drilling action.
- Maintain a speed and pressure which allows cutting without overheating the bit. Applying too much pressure will:
- Overheat the drill
- Wear the bearings
- Bend or burn bits
- Produce off-center or irregular-shaped holes
- When drilling large holes in metal, start with a small bit, then finish with a larger bit.