Drill Attachments

About Drill Attachments

Drill attachments are versatile accessories designed to transform your standard drill or driver into a multi-functional tool capable of tackling a wide range of tasks beyond simple drilling and driving. From angle adaptors that let you reach tight spaces to specialised cutting tools and even novelty attachments for home use, these accessories extend the capabilities of your power tools without requiring additional equipment. Whether you're a professional tradesperson working on site or a DIY enthusiast tackling home projects, the right drill attachment can save time, money, and storage space.

Our comprehensive range includes practical workshop attachments from trusted brands like Bosch, DeWalt, and Sealey, offering everything from angle hex attachments and offset adaptors to backing pads for sanding applications. Many attachments are designed to be compatible with specific tool systems – such as Bosch's IXO screwdriver range – whilst others offer universal fitment for standard drill chucks. These accessories allow you to convert your drill into an angle driver, depth-controlled screwdriver, pipe cutter, or even a polishing tool, making them essential additions to any toolbox.

The category encompasses both professional-grade attachments for demanding trade applications and innovative solutions for home use. Professional attachments like metal chuck conversions and impact-rated adaptors are built to withstand site work conditions, whilst precision tools like torque setting adaptors and depth gauges ensure accuracy in specialist applications. This versatility makes drill attachments invaluable for trades requiring flexibility and efficiency across diverse tasks.

Jargon Buster

• Angle Adaptor: An attachment that allows your drill or driver to work at angles (typically 90 degrees), enabling access to tight spaces where a standard tool cannot reach, particularly useful in cabinet work and beneath sinks.
• Hex Shank: A six-sided shaft design commonly found on drill bits and attachments, providing a secure, non-slip connection that prevents rotation under load – essential for impact driver compatibility.
• Chuck Attachment: A device that converts keyless or fixed chucks to accept different bit types or sizes, expanding the range of accessories your drill can accommodate.
• Offset Attachment: Similar to an angle adaptor but with the drive positioned to the side rather than at 90 degrees, allowing work in confined spaces whilst maintaining better tool balance and control.
• Backing Pad: A flexible or rigid disc attachment with a shank for drill chucks, designed to hold sanding discs, polishing pads, or buffing accessories for finishing work.
• Torque Setting Adaptor: A precision attachment that limits the amount of rotational force applied, preventing over-tightening of screws and damage to delicate materials or components.

Who Uses Drill Attachments?

Drill attachments are valuable tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Using angle adaptors for cabinet installation and tight corner work
• Electricians: Employing offset attachments to install fixings in confined consumer units and junction boxes
• Plumbers: Utilising pipe cutter attachments for quick, clean cuts on plastic pipework
• Vehicle Mechanics: Taking advantage of angle and extension attachments to reach difficult engine bay locations
• Maintenance Engineers: Using various adaptors to access machinery in industrial settings
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters: Relying on angle attachments for installation work in tight spaces
• DIY Enthusiasts: Employing sanding and polishing attachments for restoration and finishing projects
• Furniture Assemblers: Using depth gauges and torque limiters for consistent, professional results

How to Choose the Right Drill Attachments

Selecting the appropriate drill attachment requires consideration of several key factors to ensure compatibility and performance:

Tool Compatibility: First, identify whether the attachment is designed for your specific drill model or offers universal fitment. Bosch IXO attachments, for example, are system-specific, whilst hex shank adaptors typically fit any drill with a standard chuck. Check the shank diameter and type (round, hex, or SDS) against your drill's chuck capacity.

Application Requirements: Consider the task at hand. Angle adaptors excel in confined spaces but may reduce torque transmission, making them suitable for light to medium-duty fastening rather than heavy drilling. Impact-rated attachments are essential when using with impact drivers, as standard attachments may fail under the high rotational forces involved.

Build Quality: Professional-grade attachments from brands like DeWalt, Bosch Professional, and Milwaukee feature hardened steel construction and sealed gearboxes for durability on site. For occasional DIY use, standard-duty attachments from Draper or Sealey offer good value whilst maintaining adequate quality.

Working Angle and Reach: Different angle attachments offer varying degrees of rotation – typically 90 degrees for right-angle work or offset designs for angled access. Consider the clearance space in your typical working environment when selecting between compact and extended-reach options.

Load Capacity: Check the manufacturer's specifications for maximum torque ratings and speed limits. Exceeding these values can damage both the attachment and your drill, or compromise safety during operation.

Popular Accessories

Complement your drill attachments with these useful accessories:

• Screwdriver Bit Sets: Comprehensive collections in various drive types (Phillips, Pozidrive, Torx) for use with your adaptors
• Drill Bit Sets: HSS, masonry, and wood bits in common sizes for versatile drilling applications
• Sanding Discs: Various grits for use with backing pad attachments in finishing work
• Extension Bars: Additional reach for accessing deep recesses when combined with angle attachments
• Magnetic Bit Holders: Enhanced bit retention, particularly useful when working at angles
• Chuck Keys and Keyless Chucks: Replacement or upgrade chucks for older drill models
• Tool Storage Cases: Organised storage solutions from Stanley, DeWalt, or Makita to keep attachments protected
• Polishing and Buffing Pads: For use with backing pad attachments on automotive or furniture restoration

Safety Information

When using drill attachments, observe these important safety considerations:

Secure Fitment: Always ensure attachments are fully seated and tightened in the chuck before operation. Loose attachments can detach during use, causing injury or damage. Check connections regularly, particularly when working with high-torque applications or impact drivers.

Speed Limitations: Respect the maximum RPM ratings specified by the attachment manufacturer. Exceeding these speeds can cause attachment failure, particularly with angle adaptors and sanding pad assemblies. Reduce your drill's speed setting when using attachments that increase leverage or change the working angle.

PPE Requirements: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses, as attachments can alter the direction of debris projection. When using sanding or cutting attachments, use dust masks compliant with HSE guidelines and hearing protection where necessary.

Increased Reaction Forces: Angle attachments and extensions increase the effective leverage of your drill, which can generate unexpected reaction forces if the bit binds. Maintain a secure grip with both hands and brace yourself appropriately, particularly when drilling overhead or in awkward positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use angle attachments with impact drivers?

Only use attachments specifically rated for impact use, such as the Bosch GFA 18-W Angle Hex Attachment. Standard angle adaptors designed for regular drills may fail under the high rotational forces and vibrations generated by impact drivers. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before use.

Do drill attachments reduce the power of my tool?

Angle attachments and extensions do reduce effective torque due to mechanical losses in the gearing and increased leverage. Expect approximately 20-30% power reduction with most right-angle attachments. This makes them ideal for driving screws and light drilling, but less suitable for heavy-duty applications like large diameter hole cutting.

Are Bosch IXO attachments compatible with other brands?

No, Bosch IXO attachments feature a proprietary bayonet-style connection specific to IXO screwdrivers. However, hex shank attachments from various manufacturers offer universal compatibility with standard drill chucks across different brands, providing versatile options for most applications.

How do I maintain drill attachments for longevity?

Clean attachments after each use to remove dust and debris, paying particular attention to geared angle adaptors. Apply a light machine oil to moving parts and store in a dry environment. Inspect regularly for wear, particularly on gear teeth and shank surfaces, replacing attachments that show excessive play or damage to maintain safe operation.

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

A right-angle attachment positions the drive at exactly 90 degrees to the drill body, ideal for working perpendicular to the tool. An offset attachment angles the drive to the side whilst maintaining a less severe angle, offering better balance and visibility in moderately confined spaces whilst still providing improved access compared to a straight drill.