Can I use a combi drill for masonry and concrete?

Yes, but with limits. A combi drill's hammer function is designed for light masonry work like drilling into brick, mortar and lightweight block using standard masonry bits. For harder materials like concrete, reinforced concrete or engineered stone, you need an SDS drill which delivers a much more powerful hammer action. A combi drill will get through a few holes in concrete, but it's slow and wears the tool. For regular concrete drilling, invest in a dedicated SDS-Plus rotary hammer.

What size battery should I get for my cordless drill?

For a combi drill, 3.0Ah batteries offer the best balance of weight and runtime for general trade use. They keep the drill light enough for overhead work while lasting a reasonable shift. 5.0Ah batteries give longer runtime but add noticeable weight, which matters during a full day of drilling. 2.0Ah is fine for light or occasional use. The best approach is two 3.0Ah batteries with a rapid charger so one charges while you use the other.

What is the difference between a combi drill and an impact driver?

A combi drill combines standard drilling, hammer drilling (for masonry) and screwdriving in one tool. It uses a three-jaw chuck that accepts round and hex shank bits. An impact driver is designed specifically for driving screws and bolts using a 1/4" hex collet. It delivers rotational impacts for higher torque without the wrist strain. Most tradespeople carry both. If you're buying one tool, a combi drill is more versatile. If you're driving lots of fixings, add an impact driver.

What voltage combi drill do I need for trade use?

18V is the standard for professional trade use across all three major brands (Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee). It covers 95% of drilling and driving tasks on site. 12V tools are lighter and more compact but lack the power for sustained heavy work. 36V (or twin 18V) is only needed for continuous heavy-duty drilling into concrete or large-diameter holesaws. For most trades, an 18V brushless combi drill like the Makita DHP487Z (40Nm torque) is the right choice.

What does brushless mean on a cordless drill?

A brushless motor removes the physical carbon brushes found in standard motors. This means less friction, less heat, longer motor life and more efficient use of battery power. In practice, a brushless drill runs cooler, lasts longer between charges, and typically outlasts a brushed equivalent by 2-3 times. Every major brand now uses brushless motors in their professional ranges. It's worth the small price premium.

Drilling & Driving

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Browse our range of drilling & driving at Invicta Tools. We stock top brands at competitive trade prices, perfect for professional tradespeople and serio...