Pocket holes are easier with this driver tip tool hack.

Just a few adjustments to a driver tip makes drilling pocket holes easier.

Today’s rant is driver bits. They are in constant motion and it’s infuriating.

While I like the long driver bits, I don’t like them exactly as they are. I make a small modification to make my work, including pocket holes, way easier.

Here’s what I do:

Step 1. Remove the metal ring. The first thing is to remove what I don’t want. That starts with the a little metal ring around the driver bit. I use a putty knife to maneuver it off. Then the driver bit will come apart in two pieces.

Step 2. Tape the bit. I use duct tape to wrap around the driver bit, making sure to get a tight, smooth surface.

Now that the driver bit it ready, I can get the tool down, really low angle to the work to make pocket holes. And the permanently extended bit is longer, making it easier to grab out of my nail bags, too. Bonus.

I use a putty knife to remove the metal ring from the driver bit.

This is the metal ring that I removed from the driver bit.

I use duct tape to wrap the driver bit so it has a snug fit.

My modified driver bit.

Mark

Mark is a licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor. He writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.

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