How to Stop a Drill

Select the direction you want the bit to turn. The direction you choose depends on whether you want the drill bit to dig deeper into the object you're working on, or if you want to extract the bit. When the bit is turning clockwise, it will dig into the object. Most drills have a switch near the handle that will set the bit rotation direction. The switch will likely be marked by arrows. An arrow pointing toward the front of the gun indicates the bit will turn clockwise (to drill deeper). An arrow pointing toward the back of the gun indicates the bit will turn counterclockwise and extract itself from the object.

Grasp the drill's handle with one hand and cradle the upper part of the drill with the other. Apply pressure to the trigger with your index finger to begin operating the drill. If you have a variable-speed drill, as most drills now are, stronger amounts of pressure will cause the bit to turn more quickly.

Release the trigger to stop operating the drill. The bit may continue to turn for a moment after you've released the trigger. Don't touch the bit until it has stopped completely. The bit may also be hot due to friction.