Angle Attachments

About Angle Attachments

Angle attachments are versatile power tool accessories that convert standard drills, drivers and impact drivers into right-angle tools, enabling access to confined spaces and awkward positions. These ingenious attachments eliminate the need for dedicated right-angle drills, allowing tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts to work between floor joists, inside cabinets, behind appliances and in tight corners where conventional straight-line drilling or driving would be impossible. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from leading manufacturers including Bosch Professional, Milwaukee, Festool, Irwin and Trend.

The category encompasses right-angle drill chuck adaptors for standard drilling applications, offset screwdriver attachments optimised for driving fasteners in restricted spaces, and specialised SDS Plus angle adaptors for rotary drilling in masonry. Many feature robust all-metal gearboxes, quick-change chucks and impact-rated construction to withstand the demanding conditions of professional use whilst maintaining torque transfer at 90-degree angles.

Applications

Angle attachments are essential accessories across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners – drilling between joists, fixing in tight corners and working on timber framing projects
• Electricians – installing back boxes, drilling for cable runs in confined spaces and working within electrical enclosures
• Plumbers – drilling through floor joists, working beneath baths and basins, and accessing pipework in restricted areas
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters – installing fixings behind appliances and working inside cabinets
• HVAC Engineers – installing ductwork fixings and accessing confined mechanical spaces
• Maintenance Engineers – accessing machinery fixings and working in equipment housings
• DIY Enthusiasts – home improvement projects involving awkward spaces without investing in specialist tools

Choosing The Right Angle Attachments

Drive Type Compatibility: Ensure the attachment matches your power tool's drive system. Standard hex shank attachments (typically 1/4-inch or 10mm hex) fit most drills and impact drivers, whilst SDS Plus angle adaptors require compatible hammer drills. Bosch's FlexiClick system offers quick interchange for their specific tool ranges.

Application Requirements: Right-angle drill chuck adaptors accept standard drill bits for making holes, whilst offset screwdriver attachments are optimised for driving screws. Consider whether you need drilling capability, screwdriving functionality, or versatile models with quick-change chucks that accommodate both.

Impact Rating: For impact driver applications, select impact-rated attachments like Milwaukee Shockwave or Irwin models with reinforced construction designed to withstand percussive forces without premature wear.

Working Space Constraints: Stubby models provide maximum access in extremely confined spaces, whilst offset designs offer additional hand clearance when working close to walls or obstructions. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks various profiles to suit different site conditions.

Build Quality: Professional-grade attachments from Bosch, Milwaukee and Festool feature all-metal gearboxes that maintain accuracy and durability under regular trade use, whilst budget options may suffice for occasional DIY tasks.

Safety Information

Angle attachments alter your tool's balance and centre of gravity, so maintain a firm grip and ensure secure footing when working in awkward positions. Use lower speed settings than conventional drilling, as the gearing can amplify torque and cause unexpected tool movement if bits bind. Always wear appropriate eye protection, as debris is more likely to ricochet unpredictably when drilling at right angles in confined spaces. Inspect attachments before use to ensure secure fitting and proper bit seating, and allow cooling periods during extended use as gearing mechanisms can generate considerable heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an angle attachment with my impact driver?

Yes, but ensure you select an impact-rated angle attachment specifically designed to withstand percussive forces. Standard drill attachments may fail prematurely under impact driver torque. Manufacturers like Milwaukee and Irwin produce impact-rated models engineered for these demanding applications.

What's the difference between right-angle and offset attachments?

Right-angle attachments turn the drive 90 degrees but maintain a straight profile from the tool body. Offset attachments position the chuck or driver to one side, providing additional clearance for your hand and the tool body when working extremely close to walls, floors or other obstructions – ideal for close-quarters cabinet and electrical work.

Are SDS Plus angle adaptors suitable for hammer drilling?

Most SDS Plus angle adaptors are designed primarily for rotary drilling rather than hammer action, as the perpendicular gearing doesn't efficiently transfer percussive force. Always check the manufacturer's specifications – for heavy-duty hammer drilling at angles, a dedicated SDS right-angle drill is recommended.