Learn How to Drill Smarter,Faster and Safer

Tips & How-To Guides

Shop workers drilling on metal beam with a mag drill and a rapidrill side by side

The Real-World Mag Drill Alternative

Mag drills are excellent on clean, flat, thick steel—but real jobsites rarely give you those conditions. In this post, we compare traditional mag drills with modern clamp-on drill presses and break down where each tool shines. Learn why clamp-style drill presses like Rapidrill PRO solve the common jobsite problems mag drills can’t handle, including tubing, angled steel, overhead work, and thin beam flanges.

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Construction worker at a jobsite drilling through a beam overhead with a rapidrill attachment

How to Drill Holes in I-Beams Safely (Without a Mag Drill)

Drilling structural beams the wrong way leads to broken bits, unsafe body positions, and costly hot-work delays. In this post, we break down how to safely drill I-beams, including the best tools, bit selection, lubrication tips, and why a clamp-on drill press is the safest method for steel erection crews. Perfect for anyone trying to drill steel cleanly, accurately, and without unnecessary risk.

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Close up of a worker using a dewalt and rapidrill combo to drill through metal I-beam

How to Choose the Right Drill Bit for Metal vs. Wood

Choosing the right drill bit can dramatically improve drilling speed, accuracy, and safety. This guide explains the best drill bits for metal and wood—HSS, cobalt, carbide, brad point, spade, and Forstner—plus pro tips for heat control, pressure, and reducing wear. Perfect for fabricators, builders, and DIY users looking to drill cleaner, safer, and faster every time.

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