I'm looking to buy a hand drill and I've come across a couple of options, like the Millers Falls models 2 and 5, and the Stanley UK 803. However, I'm not familiar with hand drills at all. I'm curious about what features to look for, their compatibility with modern drill bits, and where to find reliable information about them. Also, could anyone recommend a good quality but affordable option available in Europe? The Stanley 803 looks reasonably priced, but I want to make sure I'm making a solid choice.
3 Answers
When picking a drill, consider the size and how much leverage you can get. Look for models with bit storage in the handle, too! Just be aware that the same model can have different chuck sizes over the years, affecting the drill bit sizes they can handle. I usually prefer drills that accept at least a 1/4 inch bit since that’s what I use the most.
If you're looking for more info, definitely check out George's Basement - they have a ton of resources about hand drills, including the Millers Falls ones. I've had great experiences with the Millers Falls No. 2 drills, and it's worth mentioning I've come across a Goodell Pratt No. 5-1/2 that was a pretty good rival after refurbishing. Also, they have models that offer two speeds, which can really help when working with larger bits.
Both of the Millers Falls drills are solid choices. They can take standard drill bits, which is a huge plus! If you're lucky, some might even have bits hidden away in the handle, which is a neat bonus.