milwaukeetool

When you're working in tight spaces—like inside a wall cavity, under a sink, or between floor joists—a standard drill simply won't fit. That's why every plumber and electrician eventually reaches for a right angle drill. These compact, angled tools give you the leverage and clearance you need to bore holes in confined areas. But choosing between a cordless model and a corded model can be tricky. In this guide, we'll compare cordless vs. corded right angle drills specifically for plumbing and electrical applications, so you can decide which one belongs in your kit.

What Is a Right Angle Drill?

A right angle drill, sometimes called a hole hawg or angle drill, features a head that sits at a 90-degree angle to the body. This design allows you to drill pilot holes, run conduit, or bore through studs in spaces where a traditional drill would be too long. Historically, these tools were exclusively corded, but modern lithium-ion batteries have made cordless versions incredibly powerful and popular.

For electrical work, you'll often use a right angle drill to create holes for running wiring. For plumbing, it's indispensable for drilling through joists for pipe runs. The choice between corded and cordless often comes down to runtime, torque, and portability.

Corded Right Angle Drills: The Traditional Workhorse

Corded right angle drills have been the standard for decades. They plug into an outlet or generator and deliver continuous, high-torque power. Models like the classic Milwaukee Hole Hawg are legendary among tradesmen for their durability and sheer power.

Pros of Corded Right Angle Drills

• Unlimited runtime: No battery swapping. You can drill all day as long as you have power.
• Higher torque: Corded motors typically produce more torque, especially at low speeds. This is critical when drilling through dense wood, metal studs, or concrete with a hole saw.
• Lower upfront cost: Corded tools are generally cheaper than their cordless counterparts, especially if you already own a generator or extension cords.
• Reliability: Fewer electronic components mean less that can go wrong on a dusty jobsite.

Cons of Corded Right Angle Drills

• Tethered to power: You need an outlet or a long extension cord, which can be a tripping hazard or limit mobility in tight attics or crawl spaces.
• Heavier and bulkier: Corded models tend to be heavier, which can cause fatigue during overhead drilling.
• Less portable: Carrying a heavy drill plus a 100-foot extension cord is a hassle.

Cordless Right Angle Drills: Modern Freedom and Power

Thanks to advances in lithium-ion battery technology, cordless right angle drills have become serious contenders. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL system has set a new standard, offering torque that rivals many corded units. For instance, the M18 FUEL 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Hole Hawg 7/16 in. Right Angle Drill W/Quick-Lok delivers impressive power while being completely cord-free.

Pros of Cordless Right Angle Drills

• Unmatched portability: No cords means you can work in the most remote parts of a building, on a ladder, or in a crawl space without worrying about power access.
• Safety: No extension cords to trip over or cut with a hole saw. This is a huge plus on messy jobsites.
• Modern features: Many cordless models include brushless motors, electronic clutch, and variable speed triggers for better control.
• Lighter weight: Cordless drills are often lighter than corded ones, reducing fatigue over long shifts.

Cons of Cordless Right Angle Drills

• Limited runtime: Batteries drain quickly when using high-torque settings or large hole saws. You may need multiple batteries for a full day's work.
• Higher cost: The tool itself plus batteries and a charger can be expensive. However, if you're already in the M18 ecosystem, you can share batteries with other tools.
• Torque limitations: While modern cordless drills are powerful, they still can't match the sustained torque of a high-end corded model for very heavy-duty applications.

Key Differences for Plumbing and Electrical Work

Plumbers and electricians face unique demands. Let's break down how each type of drill performs in common tasks.

Factor	Corded Right Angle Drill	Cordless Right Angle Drill
Torque for large hole saws	Excellent; handles 4-inch holes easily	Good for up to 2-3 inch holes; may struggle with larger
Portability in tight spaces	Limited by cord; cord can snag	Excellent; no cord restrictions
Runtime for long runs	Unlimited (with generator or outlet)	Requires spare batteries; recharging time
Overhead drilling fatigue	Heavy; tires arms quickly	Lighter; easier to hold overhead
Safety near water/wet areas	Risk of electric shock if cord is damaged	Safer; no power cord near water
Cost of entry	Lower; tool-only cost	Higher; tool + batteries + charger

When to Choose a Corded Right Angle Drill

If you regularly drill large-diameter holes (3 inches or more) in thick lumber or concrete, a corded model is still the best choice. Plumbers who install waste lines or electricians running multiple circuits through joists will benefit from the sustained torque and unlimited runtime. For example, if you're boring through a stack of 2x10s for a drain pipe, a corded Super Hawg or traditional Hole Hawg will power through without hesitation.

Additionally, if you work in a shop or on a jobsite where power is always nearby, the lower cost of a corded drill makes it a smart investment.

When to Choose a Cordless Right Angle Drill

For most modern plumbing and electrical work, a cordless right angle drill is the better choice. The convenience of being untethered, especially in attics, crawl spaces, and on ladders, significantly improves productivity and safety. The M18 FUEL Hole Hawg is a prime example—it offers enough torque for most residential and commercial jobs, and its Quick-Lok chuck makes bit changes easy in tight spots.

If you're an electrician running 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch holes for conduit, or a plumber drilling through studs for supply lines, a cordless model will serve you well. The key is to invest in high-capacity batteries (like the M18 High Output packs) to extend runtime.

Top Features to Look For in a Right Angle Drill (2025)

• Brushless motor: Increases efficiency and runtime. All modern M18 FUEL drills have brushless motors.
• Variable speed trigger: Essential for matching speed to material—slow for metal, fast for wood.
• Quick-Lok or keyless chuck: Saves time when swapping bits in tight spaces.
• LED light: Helps illuminate dark corners under sinks or in attics.
• Side handle: Provides extra control and reduces wrist strain during high-torque drilling.

Drilling Tool Trends in 2025

The drilling tool trends 2025 are clear: cordless is taking over. Battery technology continues to improve, with higher energy densities and faster charging. Milwaukee's M18 and M12 platforms are expanding, and many tradespeople are going fully cordless for all their drilling needs. However, for the heaviest industrial applications, corded tools still have a place. The trend is toward hybrid solutions—owning one corded drill for big jobs and a cordless drill for everyday work.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For most plumbers and electricians, a cordless right angle drill is the better investment in 2025. The portability, safety, and modern features outweigh the minor torque and runtime trade-offs. If you're already using Milwaukee tools, the M18 FUEL Hole Hawg is a standout choice. It combines the legendary durability of the Hole Hawg name with the freedom of cordless operation.

If you frequently drill large holes in thick materials or work on a generator-powered site, a corded model remains a solid backup. But for the majority of tasks—running wire, drilling for pipes, and installing fixtures—cordless is the way to go.

Call to Action

Ready to upgrade your kit? Check out the M18 FUEL 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Hole Hawg 7/16 in. Right Angle Drill W/Quick-Lok at Acme Tools Discount, and pair it with a high-capacity battery for all-day performance. It's the perfect blend of power and portability for your next plumbing or electrical project.