The Most MISUNDERSTOOD Feature On Your Drill
Learn how to effectively use the clutch feature on your drill, including settings for driving screws and understanding torque application.
By LRN2DIY
Published Jan 2024·Updated Jun 2026
Tools Needed
- Milwaukee Drill
- Flex Drill
- Warrior 18V Drill
- Countersink Drill Bit
Steps
- 1
Understand the function of the clutch collar on your drill and how it varies across different manufacturers.
- 2
Recognize the different clutch settings on your drill, including hammer mode, drill bit mode, and driver mode.
- 3
Utilize the clutch when driving screws or fasteners, starting with the lowest torque setting.
- 4
Drive a 2.5-inch screw into a Douglas fir 4x4 at each of the 11 settings on the collar to see how torque affects screw depth.
- 5
Change to drill mode for full power operation, allowing screws to be driven deeper without backing off.