Setting the Torque on a Drill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quck answer

To set the torque setting on a drill, follow these steps:

1. Locate the torque adjustment collar on the drill. It is usually near the chuck or on top of the handle.

2. Turn the collar to align the desired torque setting with the indicator mark. The numbers or symbols on the collar represent different torque levels.

3. For higher torque, set the collar to a higher number or symbol. For lower torque or drilling without clutch, set it to a lower number or symbol.

4. Once the desired torque setting is selected, lock the collar in place by tightening any locking mechanism present.

5. Test the torque setting on a scrap material before using the drill for your project to ensure the desired torque level is achieved.


Nowadays, most drills come with adjustable torque settings and options for high and low speed. These features are particularly useful when it comes to driving screws into wood. The torque setting you choose depends on the type of wood you are working with and the length of the screws. Remember, the higher the torque setting, the more power you have to drive the screws. Sometimes, adjusting the torque setting on a drill also requires adjusting the high and low speed settings.

Step 1

Locate the arrow on the top of the drill and the numbers on the torque adjustment ring, which is located directly behind the chuck collar. Make sure that the torque number you select aligns with the arrow on the top of the drill/driver body.

Step 2

If you are driving in small screws, rotate the torque ring between numbers 1 through 4. If your drill has variable speeds or a two-speed setting on the top, set it to the highest setting.

Step 3

For driving screws through soft woods, turn the torque ring between numbers 5 through 8.

Step 4

If you are driving screws through semi-soft or semi-hard woods, position the torque ring between numbers 9 through 12. Once you start driving screws into harder woods, adjust your two-speed setting to the low setting. This helps prevent splitting caused by driving the screws in too quickly.

Step 5

When working with hardwood or driving long screws over 3 inches or engaging in heavy drilling, rotate the torque ring between numbers 13 through 16. If your drill has multiple clutch settings, consult the manual and select the appropriate torque range between numbers 17 through 24.

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