Best Cordless Drill Drivers with Side Handles for Large Hole Saws

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Why a side handle matters

A large hole saw can grab suddenly when its teeth catch, bind in a knot, or break through the back of a board. That reaction can twist the drill body hard enough to injure a wrist or knock the operator off balance. A side handle gives you a second grip and more leverage to resist that kick. For hole saws around 3 inches and larger, it is a worthwhile control feature—not a guarantee against getting hurt.

Many cordless drills include an auxiliary handle; some compact models do not. Check that the handle is included, attaches securely, and can be positioned for the work. A drill with a powerful motor but no usable side handle is a poor choice for repeated large-hole work.

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#1 Pick

DEWALT Electric Drill, Spade Handle, 1/2-Inch, 9-Amp (DW130V)

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What to look for in a cordless drill

Prioritize low-speed control, a substantial two-speed gearbox, and a clutch or electronic setting that lets you limit torque when appropriate. A low gear is useful for hole saws: it gives the motor more mechanical advantage and makes it easier to keep the saw under control. The drill’s published speed range matters, but do not choose by maximum RPM alone. Follow the hole-saw manufacturer’s speed guidance for the material and diameter; larger saws generally need slower speeds.

Look for a side handle that clamps to the drill’s front collar and stays put under load. A handle that rotates or loosens defeats its purpose. A belt hook is convenient, but it does not substitute for a second hand on the tool. Also check the chuck’s capacity: many common drills accept shanks up to 1/2 inch, while some lighter models have smaller chucks that may not accept the arbor you need.

Battery size is a trade-off. A compact battery makes the drill lighter and easier to manage overhead, but a large hole saw can drain it quickly or make the tool bog down. A higher-capacity battery can help maintain runtime, at the cost of added weight. Use a battery compatible with the platform you already own when that makes sense; buying into another battery system just for occasional holes may cost more than the job warrants.

Which drill category fits the job?

For repeated holes with a 3- to 6-inch saw, start with a heavy-duty cordless drill with an auxiliary handle. Compare the tool’s included handle, low-speed range, chuck size, and battery platform—not just its advertised torque. If you already own compatible batteries, a bare tool can be the economical choice.

When a compact drill is enough

A compact drill can be the sensible buy for occasional holes, smaller saws, or work in cabinets and other tight spaces. It is lighter, easier to position, and often cheaper. For a few holes in thin material, stepping up to the largest drill available is unnecessary. But check the manual and product specifications before using a compact drill with a large saw: some lack an auxiliary-handle mount, and lighter models may overheat or stall during sustained cutting.

When compact size is the priority, shop for a compact cordless drill with a side handle rather than assuming every drill has one. If the tool has no auxiliary handle, do not treat a tight two-handed grip on the body as an equivalent substitute for high-torque work. For difficult access between framing members, compare a purpose-built cordless right-angle drill, but expect to pay more for a tool used on a narrower set of jobs.

Reduce binding and overheating

Secure the workpiece, set the drill to low gear, and grip both handles before starting. Keep the saw square to the surface and let the teeth cut without forcing the drill. For deep holes in wood, back the saw out periodically to clear chips; packed chips create heat and increase the chance of binding. In thick stock, cutting partway from each side can reduce breakout and help manage the cut.

A stalled saw is a warning, not an invitation to squeeze the trigger harder. Release the trigger, keep control of the drill, and remove the cause of the bind before continuing. Repeated stalls can overheat the motor, battery, or hole saw. Let a hot drill cool according to its manual, and use sharp, undamaged saws with the correct arbor and pilot bit. Do not bypass the side handle, clutch, or other safety features to keep a cut moving.

A practical buying checklist

Before choosing, match the drill to the largest hole saw you actually expect to use. Confirm the tool has a secure side-handle mount, a low-speed gear, a chuck that accepts your arbor, and batteries from a platform you are willing to keep using. For occasional work in softwood, a capable compact drill may be fine. For repeated large holes, dense material, or work where a stall could put you off balance, favor a heavier drill designed for high-load drilling—and stop if it binds or becomes difficult to control.