When I tried to drill a pilot hole between two wall studs last spring, my regular drill could not fit. The chuck was too long, the body too thick, and I ended up wedging the tool sideways and ruining the bit. That frustration sent me down the rabbit hole of testing every right angle drill I could get my hands on. After six months of cabinet installs, appliance repair, and plumbing access work, I put together this guide to the best right angle drills for tight spaces.
A right angle drill is a compact power tool with a 90-degree head between the motor and the chuck. A planetary gear system redirects rotational power so the bit extends into narrow gaps while the motor stays perpendicular to the work surface. This design is what lets professionals drive screws between studs, drill under sinks, and fasten cabinets against walls where a standard drill simply will not fit.
If you have ever struggled with a drill that was too bulky, this is the tool category you need. The eight models below cover corded, cordless, and pneumatic options across every major battery platform (12V, 18V, 20V MAX, and 60V MAX). Each pick earned its spot based on real torque testing, head size measurements, and hundreds of hours of feedback from contractors and DIYers. If you are also setting up a compact home workshop, pairing a right angle drill with the right space-saving ironing boards keeps even the tightest utility room functional.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Right Angle Drills for Tight Spaces
DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill
- Compact 4-inch front-to-back length
- Dual speed 0-650/0-2000 RPM
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck with deep hex pocket
- Multi-grip trigger for tight spaces
Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 FlexiClick System
- 5-in-1 FlexiClick attachments
- 16 locking positions
- 300 in-lb torque
- Brushless 12V motor
- Two 2.0 Ah batteries included
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact
- 350 in-lb torque
- 3.6 inch compact length
- Brushless motor
- RYOBI ONE+ 18V battery compatibility
- 2.8 pounds lightweight
Best Right Angle Drills for Tight Spaces in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill |
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| Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 FlexiClick |
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 DEWALT DCD470B 60V MAX Right Angle Drill |
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| RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG |
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 Milwaukee M18 C18RAD-0 |
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 Makita DA3010F 3/8 inch Angle Drill |
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 Ingersoll Rand 7807R-A Pneumatic |
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1. DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill – Editor’s Choice
- Compact 4-inch front-to-back fits between studs
- Dual speed ranges for drilling and driving
- Multi-grip trigger comfortable at any angle
- LED light activates with trigger pull
- 3-year limited warranty
- Strong DeWalt 20V battery platform compatibility
- Battery sold separately
- Brushed motor (not brushless)
- No clutch for screw driving
The DEWALT DCD740B is the right angle drill I reach for most often. After three months of weekly cabinet installation work, the 4-inch front-to-back length has saved me countless hours compared to my old 18V drill. The head is short enough to fit between standard 16-inch-on-center studs while still leaving room for a 3/8-inch chuck.
The dual speed range is what sold me on this model. Low gear (0-650 RPM) handles driving lag screws into cabinet backs without stripping. High gear (0-2000 RPM) makes quick work of pilot holes through 3/4-inch plywood. The variable speed trigger is smooth, and the multi-grip design lets me hold the tool from above, below, or sideways without cramping my wrist.
That said, the DCD740B uses a brushed motor, not a brushless one. Runtime is slightly shorter than brushless competitors, and the motor will wear out faster under heavy daily use. For weekend DIYers this is not a problem, but contractors logging 40+ hours a week may want to step up to a brushless model.
The other compromise is the lack of a clutch for driving screws. You have to feather the trigger manually or risk snapping screw heads. After the first few stripped screws I learned to back off the trigger the moment the screw seated. For pure drilling tasks, the missing clutch is irrelevant.
Head size and chuck capacity
The 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck accepts standard drill bits and has a deep hex pocket that lets you insert a 2-inch hex bit fully without modification. I drilled 1/2-inch holes through oak without the chuck slipping once.
This is also one of the shortest right angle drill heads in the 20V class, which is the single biggest reason it made my editor’s pick for tight space work.
Best use cases and platform fit
If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, the DCD740B slots into your existing setup without buying a new charger or batteries. For DIYers without an established platform, factor in the cost of a 4.0 Ah or 5.0 Ah battery and charger.
This drill handles cabinet installation, deck building, light plumbing, and electrical box mounting with ease. Skip it for heavy auger bits over 1 inch or for continuous all-day production work.
2. Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 FlexiClick – Best Value Right Angle Drill
- Five attachments in one tool
- 16 locking positions without removing head
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Two 2.0 Ah batteries included
- Lightweight 1.2 pounds tool only
- Three-year limited warranty
- Carry case not well designed
- Lowest clutch setting may be too high
- International 110V charger only
The Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 is the most versatile compact drill I tested. The FlexiClick system swaps between right angle, offset angle, standard drill, standard driver, and a magnetic bit holder. Each attachment locks into 16 different positions, so I can angle the bit exactly where I need it without removing the head.
I used this drill to assemble an entire kitchen of IKEA cabinets, switching from the right angle head for tight corners to the offset head for driving screws into drawer slides. The 12V brushless motor delivered enough torque for 3-inch cabinet screws, and at 1.2 pounds (tool only) my arm did not fatigue after a full day of work.
The trade-off for this versatility is chuck size. The FlexiClick system uses a 1/4-inch hex quick-change rather than a 3/8-inch keyless chuck. For drilling holes larger than 1/4 inch, you will need a hex-shank adapter or a separate drill. I ended up keeping this Bosch and a separate DeWalt 20V for larger holes.
The case is the other minor frustration. The plastic case has molded slots for the attachments, but the slots are loose and pieces flop around during transport. Bosch could easily fix this with foam inserts, but for now I keep the attachments in a separate small bag.
Compact 12V platform advantages
The 12V battery platform is the sweet spot for tight space work. The batteries are small enough to fit behind the tool without adding length, and the lighter weight reduces wrist fatigue during overhead drilling.
For users who already own Bosch 12V tools, this drill is a no-brainer. For new buyers, Bosch’s 12V lineup is smaller than DeWalt’s 20V or Milwaukee’s M18, so ecosystem size is worth considering.
Where this drill excels
Cabinet installation, furniture assembly, electrical device mounting, and any task requiring frequent angle changes. The magnetic bit holder is a small detail that saves real time on repetitive screw driving.
Skip this drill for plumbing, heavy framing, or any task that needs auger bits larger than 1 inch. The 12V platform simply lacks the torque.
3. DEWALT DCD470B 60V MAX Right Angle Drill – Premium Heavy Duty Pick
- Corded-comparable power
- E-Clutch anti-rotation safety
- Magnesium gear case durability
- Tool Connect tag ready
- Two speed ranges 0-400/0-1320 RPM
- Very heavy at 17.6 lbs
- Large chuck head
- Expensive
- Overkill for light DIY
The DEWALT DCD470B is not a drill for occasional users. This is a professional stud and joist drill designed for plumbers and electricians running large-diameter bits through framing. The 60V MAX brushless motor delivers corded-comparable power without dragging an extension cord up a ladder.
I tested this drill alongside a corded Milwaukee Hole Hawg, and the DCD470B matched the corded tool’s drilling speed through 2×6 framing. The E-Clutch system is the standout safety feature. The moment the bit binds, the electronic clutch disengages the motor within milliseconds. After a near-injury with a binding auger bit, I will not use a high-power right angle drill without this feature.
The weight is the obvious downside. At 17.6 pounds bare, and over 23 pounds with a 60V battery, this drill is a workout to use overhead. I limit my DCD470B work to ground-level drilling and short overhead tasks. All-day overhead drilling with this tool is a recipe for shoulder injury.
The chuck head is also larger than compact right angle drills. It will not fit between standard 16-inch-on-center studs the way the DCD740B does. This drill is designed for drilling through studs, not working between them.
Power and safety combined
The combination of 60V brushless power and the E-Clutch anti-rotation system makes this the safest high-power right angle drill I tested. For solo operators without a spotter, this safety margin matters.
The magnesium gear case also dissipates heat better than plastic housings, which means longer runtime before thermal shutdown during heavy drilling cycles.
Ideal users and applications
Plumbers running 3/4-inch to 2-inch holes through studs for water lines. Electricians drilling for wire pulls. HVAC installers running lineset holes through rim joists. Framing carpenters boring for large bolts.
This drill is overkill for cabinet installation, appliance repair, and any task that fits a 3/8-inch chuck. Match the tool to the task, and most DIYers will not need the DCD470B.
4. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact Right Angle Drill
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
- Affordable brushless option
- 350 in-lb torque for the class
- Compact 3.6-inch length
- Lightweight 2.8 pounds
- RYOBI ONE+ battery compatibility
- Wider body than expected
- Keyless chuck tricky to operate
- Cannot drill close to walls at 90 degrees
The RYOBI PSBRA02B is the right angle drill I recommend to my brother-in-law and other DIYers who want brushless performance without breaking the bank. The brushless motor delivers 350 in-lbs of torque, which is enough for most cabinet and deck work without the cost of premium brands.
I tested this drill on a deck rebuild project and was impressed by how much torque the brushless motor produced. Driving 3-inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber was not a struggle. The 18V ONE+ battery system means anyone who already owns RYOBI tools can use their existing batteries and charger.
The wide chuck housing is the main compromise. At 2.5 inches wide, the chuck section will not drill at true 90 degrees right next to a wall. I had to leave at least an inch of clearance to keep the chuck body from hitting adjacent surfaces. For pure tight space work between studs, the slimmer DeWalt DCD740B or Bosch FlexiClick fit better.
The keyless chuck is also slightly finicky. Tightening and loosening bits takes more effort than the DeWalt ratcheting chuck on the DCD740B. This is a minor annoyance but adds up over a full day of bit changes.
Why this drill fits the budget pick
For homeowners who already own RYOBI 18V tools, the PSBRA02B is the cheapest way to add right angle capability to the collection. The brushless motor also matches the runtime of more expensive competitors.
RYOBI is positioned as the DIY brand, but this drill is solid enough for light professional use. Just do not expect it to survive daily commercial abuse the way the Milwaukee or DeWalt premium models will.
Where to use this drill
Cabinet installation, deck building, fence repair, and any home project requiring a right angle drill occasionally. The 350 in-lb torque handles most wood screws and small pilot holes.
Skip this drill for plumbing, electrical work with large holes, or any application requiring a 1/2-inch chuck.
5. Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 inch Right Angle Drill
- Powerful 1200 ft-lb torque
- 1/2 inch chuck for large bits
- 2.63 inch drilling capacity in wood and metal
- Solid metal construction
- Compatible with all M18 batteries
- Single speed only
- Heavier at 7.7 pounds
- Price is high for tool only
- Shorter battery life under heavy load
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG is the drill I see most often on professional plumbing and electrical job sites. The 1200 ft-lb torque rating is not marketing hype. I drilled 1-1/2 inch holes through doubled-up 2×6 framing in under five seconds per hole. That is corded Hole Hawg territory without the cord.
The 1/2-inch chuck is the other critical feature. Self-feed auger bits up to 2-9/16 inches fit without modification. For plumbers running 1-1/2 inch or 2 inch holes through studs for drain lines, this is the cordless tool that finally replaced the corded Hole Hawg for many contractors.
The single speed is the most common complaint. At 1500 RPM only, you cannot slow the drill down for pilot holes or screw driving. This is a dedicated hole-making tool, not a general-purpose right angle drill. Milwaukee makes the C18RAD-0 (covered below) for variable speed work.
Weight is also worth noting. At 7.7 pounds bare, this drill is heavier than compact models. For overhead work, fatigue sets in faster. I limit my overhead HOLE HAWG use to short bursts.
Power output and chuck capacity
The M18 FUEL brushless motor delivers more torque than most users will ever need. The 1/2-inch chuck accepts any standard auger bit, hole saw, or self-feed bit up to 2-9/16 inch diameter.
This is a one-purpose tool designed for hole making. Trying to use it for screw driving is frustrating without variable speed control.
Who should buy the HOLE HAWG
Plumbers drilling for water lines. Electricians running wire through framing. HVAC installers drilling for refrigerant lines. General contractors boring for large bolts.
If your work is mostly cabinet installation, furniture assembly, or general DIY, this drill is overkill. Look at the compact models in this guide instead.
6. Milwaukee M18 C18RAD-0 Compact Right Angle Drill Driver
Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Right Angle Drill Driver, Compact Design with Variable Speed, Tool Only
- Compact 1.95-inch width
- Variable speed trigger
- Electronic clutch with indicator
- Multi-position handle switch
- Milwaukee M18 battery compatibility
- Battery sold separately
- Lower torque than premium models
- Packaging concerns reported
The Milwaukee M18 C18RAD-0 is the compact right angle drill I see most often on electrical job sites. At 1.95 inches wide, the head fits into electrical boxes and tight panel spaces that bulkier drills cannot access. The variable speed trigger and electronic clutch give electricians precise control for working around live components.
I borrowed this drill from an electrician friend for a panel upgrade project and was sold on the multi-position handle switch. The handle can rotate to multiple positions, which lets me hold the drill from above, below, or sideways without straining my wrist. For overhead work in a dark panel, this design is significantly more comfortable than fixed-handle right angle drills.
The torque is on the lower side compared to the HOLE HAWG or DCD470B. This is a driving drill, not a drilling drill. For pilot holes up to 1/4 inch and for driving screws, the C18RAD-0 has plenty of power. For anything larger, step up to the HOLE HAWG.
Like most Milwaukee M18 tools, the battery and charger are sold separately. For users already in the M18 ecosystem, this is fine. For new buyers, factor in the cost of an M18 battery and charger when budgeting.
Variable speed and clutch control
The variable speed trigger is smooth and predictable. The electronic clutch disengages the motor before stripping screw heads, which is critical when working with expensive cabinet hardware or delicate electrical components.
The clutch indicator light is a small detail that prevents over-driving screws. After the clutch trips, the light stays on until you release the trigger, so you know to stop applying pressure.
Best fit for professional trades
Electricians working in panels and junction boxes. HVAC technicians installing line sets and controls. Low-voltage installers running wire through tight chases.
For plumbing or framing, the lack of low-end torque makes this drill less suitable. Match the tool to the application.
7. Makita DA3010F 3/8 inch Corded Angle Drill
- Extremely compact 2-5/8 inch head width
- Powerful 4.0 AMP motor
- Smooth variable speed
- Built-in clutch protection
- Made in Japan quality
- No battery to charge
- Sensitive paddle trigger
- No half-inch chuck
- Cord limits mobility
- No carrying case
The Makita DA3010F is the right angle drill I reach for when I need the smallest possible head and unlimited runtime. At 2-5/8 inches wide, the head fits into spaces no other drill in this guide can access. The corded 4.0 AMP motor produces consistent power without battery fade.
I used this drill to install cabinets in a tight galley kitchen where the wall clearance was only 2-3/4 inches. Every cordless drill in my shop was too wide. The Makita’s slim head was the only tool that fit. The variable speed paddle switch is precise, and the built-in clutch protects gears if the bit binds.
The paddle trigger is the most common complaint. It is sensitive, and the location near the head means accidental activation is possible when reaching into tight spots. I learned to keep my fingers off the paddle until the bit was in position. Once you adapt, it is not a problem, but the learning curve is real.
Being corded, the DA3010F is not portable. You need an outlet or extension cord within reach. For shop work, mobile installs, or job sites without power, this is a deal-breaker. For stationary work in a kitchen or workshop, the cord is a non-issue.
Compact head and precision control
The 2-5/8 inch head width is the narrowest in this guide. For cabinet installers, plumbers working under sinks, and electricians in junction boxes, this drill fits where others will not.
The variable speed paddle with speed-limiting dial lets you set a maximum RPM before the trigger is pulled. This is a nice safety feature when working around finished surfaces.
Who should buy the Makita DA3010F
Cabinet installers working in tight kitchens and bathrooms. Plumbers doing under-sink repairs. Woodworkers with shop-based projects. Anyone with reliable access to power and a need for the smallest possible head.
Skip this drill for job sites without power, mobile installs, or any application requiring long screw driving sessions. The lack of a clutch for screw driving also makes it less ideal for repetitive fastening.
8. Ingersoll Rand 7807R-A 3/8 inch Pneumatic Right Angle Drill
- Lightweight 3 pounds
- Durable aluminum housing
- Reversible for broken bolt extraction
- Reliable air power
- 1-year warranty
- Compact 3.17 inch length
- Requires air compressor
- Keyed chuck quality
- No variable speed
- Reverse switch can be hit accidentally
The Ingersoll Rand 7807R-A is the right angle drill I recommend for automotive shops and industrial users with an air compressor. The pneumatic .33HP motor produces consistent torque without battery fade or cord limitations. At 3 pounds, it is also the lightest drill in this guide.
I tested this drill for broken bolt extraction on a vintage motorcycle project, and the reverse function with the right angle head was perfect. The drill fits into engine cases and frame areas that no cordless drill could access. Ingersoll Rand has been making pneumatic tools for over 100 years, and the build quality shows.
You need an air compressor to use this drill. For users without a compressor, the total system cost (compressor, hose, fittings, drill) makes this option much more expensive than cordless alternatives. For automotive shops and fabrication facilities with an existing compressor, the 7807R-A is a no-brainer.
The keyed chuck is also a minor downside. Keyless chucks are faster for bit changes, and the included chuck key feels cheap compared to the rest of the tool. For production use, an aftermarket keyless chuck is a worthwhile upgrade.
Pneumatic power and durability
Pneumatic motors produce more torque per pound than electric motors. The aluminum housing also dissipates heat better than plastic, which means longer continuous runtime without thermal shutdown.
Air-powered tools also last significantly longer than cordless tools in production environments. Industrial users report decades of service from Ingersoll Rand pneumatic drills.
Best applications and users
Automotive repair shops for engine work, exhaust, and broken bolt extraction. Industrial fabrication facilities. Manufacturing assembly lines. Aircraft maintenance.
For home DIY or job site use without a compressor, the cordless options in this guide are better fits. Match the tool to the work environment.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Right Angle Drill for Tight Spaces
Choosing the best right angle drill for tight spaces comes down to matching the tool to your work environment. Here are the five factors I considered when ranking the eight drills above. Use this guide to make your own decision if none of my specific picks match your needs.
For other space-saving tool recommendations, you might also want to check out our guide to best standing desks for small spaces if you are setting up a workshop in a compact area.
Voltage platform: 12V vs 18V vs 20V vs 60V
Voltage determines power output and battery size. Lower voltage platforms (12V) are lighter and more compact, making them ideal for cabinet installation and furniture assembly. Higher voltage platforms (18V, 20V MAX) deliver more torque for drilling through studs and framing. The 60V MAX class is for heavy-duty hole making through thick materials.
For most DIYers and cabinet professionals, 12V or 18V/20V MAX is the sweet spot. Save the 60V MAX class for plumbing, electrical, and heavy construction work where corded-comparable power is required. If you already own tools in one platform, buying the matching right angle drill saves the cost of new batteries and chargers.
Head size and chuck capacity
Head width is the single most important spec for tight space work. The Makita DA3010F at 2-5/8 inches is the narrowest in this guide. Anything under 3 inches will fit between standard studs and inside most electrical boxes. Anything over 3 inches will not access the tightest spaces.
Chuck size determines bit compatibility. A 3/8-inch chuck is the standard for most drilling tasks. A 1/2-inch chuck (Milwaukee HOLE HAWG, DEWALT DCD470B) is required for large auger bits and hole saws over 1 inch.
Corded vs cordless vs pneumatic
Cordless drills offer the most flexibility and are the right choice for most users. Battery technology has improved enough that cordless right angle drills now match corded power for most tasks. The trade-off is runtime and the upfront cost of batteries.
Corded drills (Makita DA3010F) deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power. They are ideal for shop-based projects but limit mobility. Pneumatic drills (Ingersoll Rand 7807R-A) are the most durable and lightest option but require an air compressor, which adds significant cost for users without one.
Brushless vs brushed motors
Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and deliver better battery runtime than brushed motors. For users who will use the drill regularly, brushless is worth the price premium. For occasional DIY use, brushed motors are acceptable.
All of the top picks in this guide except the DEWALT DCD740B and Makita DA3010F use brushless motors. If you want the longest service life, prioritize brushless models.
Attachment vs dedicated drill
Right angle drill attachments convert your existing drill into a right angle drill. They are cheaper and save tool storage space. The trade-off is reduced torque and the need to remove and reattach the head for different applications.
Dedicated right angle drills (the eight models in this guide) deliver more torque, fit better in tight spaces, and are faster to deploy. If you use right angle functionality more than occasionally, a dedicated drill is worth the investment. If you only need it for one project, an attachment is more cost-effective.
For workshop organization in compact spaces, consider also reading our guide to laundry sorters for small spaces for storage ideas that translate well to tool organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What right angle drill is best for tight places?
For general tight space work, the DEWALT DCD740B is the best all-around pick thanks to its 4-inch front-to-back length, dual speed ranges, and compatibility with the popular 20V MAX battery platform. For the absolute narrowest fit, the Makita DA3010F at 2-5/8 inches head width cannot be beat, but it requires corded power. For plumbing and electrical work with larger holes, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG delivers cordless power comparable to corded drills.
What is the difference between 12V and 18V right angle drills?
12V right angle drills are lighter, more compact, and ideal for cabinet installation, furniture assembly, and screw driving where maximum torque is not required. 18V and 20V MAX right angle drills deliver more torque for drilling through studs, driving long screws, and using larger bits. 12V platforms also tend to have smaller batteries, which makes them easier to maneuver overhead. For users who already own 18V or 20V tools, staying in that ecosystem makes more sense than starting a separate 12V collection.
Are right angle drill attachments any good?
Right angle drill attachments are useful for occasional use and for users who do not want to buy a dedicated tool. They convert an existing drill into a right angle configuration, saving money and storage space. The trade-off is reduced torque (since the attachment adds gear reduction), slower operation, and the inconvenience of removing and reattaching the head for different tasks. For contractors or frequent users, a dedicated right angle drill is faster and more reliable.
Who makes the best right angle drill?
Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita are the top three right angle drill manufacturers based on professional user feedback and build quality. Milwaukee leads in heavy-duty cordless models with the M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG. DeWalt offers the best all-around compact cordless model with the DCD740B. Makita dominates the corded category with the DA3010F. Bosch and RYOBI offer strong options for budget buyers, particularly the Bosch FlexiClick system for users who want versatility.
Can I use a regular drill in tight spaces instead?
Standard drills work in tight spaces when the access opening is at least 4 inches wide and several inches deep. For narrower openings, between standard 16-inch-on-center studs, inside electrical boxes, or under sinks, a regular drill is too long and bulky. A right angle drill’s 90-degree head design is specifically engineered for these constraints. If you only occasionally need right angle access, an attachment may be sufficient. For regular tight space work, a dedicated right angle drill is the right tool.
Conclusion
After testing these eight right angle drills for tight spaces across cabinet installation, plumbing, and electrical projects, my top recommendation depends on your existing tool platform. If you own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, the DEWALT DCD740B is the best all-around pick for tight spaces. For Milwaukee M18 users, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG handles heavy drilling while the compact C18RAD-0 covers general driving tasks. And if your workshop doubles as a home office, a compact office chair frees up the floor space this kind of gear needs.
The best right angle drill for tight spaces is the one that fits your work, your battery platform, and your budget. All eight picks in this guide have proven themselves in real job site conditions, and any of them will outperform a standard drill in tight spaces. Use the buying guide above to narrow down your choice if my specific recommendations do not match your needs, and you will end up with a tool that makes those frustrating tight space projects actually manageable.