You don’t always have enough clearance to drill a hole or drive a screw where you need it. Maybe an obstruction blocks the hole, or the combination of drill and bit just won’t fit, as with closely spaced studs. At times like these a tool like Fuller’s flexible extension could come in handy.
This 12″ long, plastic-covered extension can get into tight spaces — it can even drill or drive around corners. The standard 1/4″ drive accepts both hex drill bits and driver bits.
Fuller sells the flexible extension by itself or with a kit containing 10 assorted Phillips, slotted, and square bits in a carrying case. The extension alone retails for about $9. Surprisingly, when it’s available at Amazon, the set sells for less.
Flexible Extension [Fuller]
Flexible Extension [Woodcraft]
Via Amazon
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5 Responses to Make Your Drill More Flexible
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I have an Eazypower alternative that was probably purchase at Home Depot – but can be had at Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Flex-A-Bit-11-Inch/dp/B0002BC0U0/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1203092907&sr=1-14
What I find to be a problem with flex entensions (both hand and machine driven) is that they do not transmit a enough torque. That’s probably not the fault of the tool itself – but rather the ability of the user to provide the needed reactive force.
You must use a right angle attachment and regular extensions the flex bit get all twisted up when you apply any torque.
i like to use this one http://www.tools-plus.com/milwaukee-49-22-8510.html
Use it with a impact gun and you can get just about everything anywhere.
I had one once, used it once… Not worth a penny if you actually want to apply any force since it gets all twisted up. Perhaps there are better quality than this style.
Or maybe use a right angled cordless impact driver like the one sold at Home Depot with the Ridgid brandname.
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=100337034&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=100337034&cm_mmc=1hd.com2froogle-_-product_feed-_-D25X-_-100337034
I just picked up the black and decker version at Target this week for about 7 bucks. Haven’t had a chance to test it yet but its a pretty rigid piece of metal so I have hope for it.