Drill Bit Hack

3 Materials
$1
1 Minute
Easy

If you don't have a drill bit at hand and need something urgently, then here's a hack I learnt recently while installing guttering!


You can find my original post here:

https://thecarpentersdaughter.co.uk/tips-and-tricks/drill-bit-hack-with-a-nail/

It won't be the quickest way to drill a pilot hole, but sometimes, it's quicker than a trip to the shops!

First, grab a straight nail - slimmer than your screw and make sure it isn't an oval shaped nail. Then hack saw off the nail head.

This should take about a minute. It's a little fiddly without a clamps, but it can be done.

Now fix it in your combi drill and tighten as you would do a normal drill bit.

Now create your pilot hole as normal. Above, I'm pre-drilling a hole through some plastic roof detail and also going through the TOP end of the plastic guttering.


Then screw as normal.

Suggested materials:
  • Combi drill
  • Nail slimmer than the screw
  • Hack saw
The Carpenter's Daughter
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Tammy Roads Tammy Roads on Feb 27, 2020

    Wouldn't it be just add ready to smack the nail with a hammer?


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 2 comments
  • William William on Feb 26, 2020

    Great tip. I have done this many times in the past in a pinch. It does work

  • Lisa West Lisa West on Feb 27, 2020

    Wont the nail spin in side the cylinder or chock of the screw gun/impact/etc.

    Side note screw guns ate great for cleaning make up brushes I'm soapy water then rinse the same way ladies.

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